Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

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Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

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The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

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Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

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Joel Robinson

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG</a> has unveiled its vision for the former Water Tank Site in Ivanhoe, which would see it transformed into a thriving residential neighbourhood, complete with a 2000 sqm public park.&nbsp;

Delivered in partnership with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a>, the proposal would transform the prominent corner of Bell Street and Upper Heidelberg Road into a connected community comprising two residential buildings, generous public open space and shared amenities.&nbsp;

The vision includes 287 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with a minimum of 10 per cent allocated to affordable housing, alongside a 2,000-square-metre publicly accessible park featuring a children's playground, activity lawn, indigenous planting, timber climbing logs, seating areas and a rock gathering circle.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>, the proposal draws on the site's industrial heritage, using a robust architectural language that references the former water tank through expressive structural elements and durable, self-finished materials.&nbsp;

Extensive landscaping has been woven throughout the development, creating a living landscape that strengthens connections to nature while responding sensitively to the surrounding neighbourhood. Two residential buildings ranging from three to 12 storeys are linked by a landscaped forecourt, creating a welcoming arrival experience and improving pedestrian connections through the site.&nbsp;

Residents would also enjoy more than 1,000 square metres of communal open space, including barbecue and dining facilities, vegetable gardens, landscaped seating pavilions and a dedicated coworking space.&nbsp;

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the vision reflected an opportunity to transform one of Ivanhoe's most recognisable sites into a place that balanced housing, community and landscape.&nbsp;

"This is an opportunity to reimagine an important site and create a neighbourhood that delivers lasting benefits for Ivanhoe," Giuliano said.&nbsp;

"We're creating much more than new homes. The vision brings together affordable housing, quality architecture, meaningful public open space and shared places that encourage people to connect, while respecting the site's history and its place within the local community."&nbsp;

Development Victoria’s Executive General Manager Precincts, Niall Cunningham, said the application is an important step for the government-owned site.&nbsp;

“This is about delivering more homes in a well-connected location, along with public open space that the Ivanhoe community will benefit from for years to come,” Cunningham said.&nbsp;

PDG was selected as development partner in late 2025 following a competitive tender process.&nbsp;

A planning submission for the project is currently being progressed through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with positive early engagement from both Banyule Council and the Department of Transport and Planning.

PDG unveils plans to transform landmark Ivanhoe Water Tank Site

Shane Wilkinson's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace Development Group</a> has lodged plans for a major residential precinct on the former Presentation College site in Windsor, with an eight-building masterplan ultimately rising to 10 storeys.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/167-dandenong-road-windsor-vic-3181">167–187 Dandenong Road</a> spans a substantial 19,027 sqm site and is being progressed across six stages, with the first residential stages comprising 170 homes across four buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>.

Stage Two will deliver the bulk of the initial housing, with Building A comprising 81 apartments and Building B 49 apartments, both rising to six storeys.

Stage Three will deliver a further 40 homes. The heritage Nagel Building, identified as Building C, will be converted to 12 dwellings, while a new five-storey Building D will comprise 28 apartments at the Hornby Street and Dandenong Road corner.

The 170 homes across Stages Two and Three will include a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including townhouse-style dwellings.<img alt="First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c56e3e-dfb9-4e12-b172-c3f18513ec32" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_9.png?VersionId=xRcRpSZsxX.UX_NDDGcRZktw7HVrzx7u" />

&nbsp;

The longer-term masterplan points to considerably greater density across the site.

Indicative plans show Building E accommodating around 80 dwellings across up to 10 storeys, while Building F is earmarked for around 120 dwellings and also up to 10 storeys. Building G is planned to range between four and 10 storeys, however its apartment yield is yet to be determined. That means the masterplan currently identifies at least 370 dwellings across Buildings A to F before any apartments within Building G are counted.

Across the 1.9-hectare site, that represents an indicative density of at least 194 dwellings per hectare, with the final figure to increase once the yield of Building G is established.

Pace is pursuing the project through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program, with Urbis lodging a combined Section 96A planning scheme amendment and planning application on behalf of the developer, which secured the site earlier this year.

The application seeks detailed approval for Stages One, Two and Three, alongside approval of the broader masterplan framework that will guide the later residential stages. Stage One will see an existing heritage building adaptively reused for a wellness and fitness-related facility, while the broader precinct will retain several significant heritage buildings and established trees as part of the redevelopment.

A minimum 10 per cent affordable housing contribution is proposed across both the initial residential stages and the later masterplan stages, delivered through a discounted rental model.

The project comes immediately after a major change to the site's planning controls.

The site was rezoned to the Housing Choice and Transport Zone through Planning Scheme Amendment GC285, gazetted on July 22, 2026, and now sits within the inner catchment of the Windsor Station precinct under the State Government's Train and Tram Zone Activity Centres Program.

While the new controls identify large sites within the inner catchment for buildings of up to six storeys, Pace's masterplan pushes height to 10 storeys in parts of the site, with the taller buildings concentrated toward the centre and along the Sandringham railway corridor.

Lower-scale built form is proposed toward the site's more sensitive residential and heritage edges, with Buildings A and B generally stepping from three storeys at their interfaces to six storeys at upper levels.

Cera Stribley's masterplan breaks the development into a collection of separate buildings rather than a continuous built form, with landscaped spaces, new pedestrian links and a new publicly accessible road forming part of the precinct.

The planning report says the development will create new pedestrian connections to Elm Place and along the railway corridor, as well as a new publicly accessible road linking Elm Place with Dandenong Road. The proposed buildings will occupy around 54 per cent of the site, leaving a substantial portion available for landscaping, communal areas and permeable surfaces.

Urbis said the scale of the project reflected the site's strategic location close to Windsor Station, tram services and the Chapel Street Activity Centre, with the former school campus identified as a significant opportunity to increase housing supply on an underutilised inner-Melbourne site.

&nbsp;

First look: Pace plans landscaped housing precinct on former Windsor school site

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jl-place">JL PLACE</a>'s Veil Brighton is approaching its final months of construction, with the nine-townhouse development at 17 Rooding Street expected to complete in December 2026.

The milestone is bringing the boutique project closer to becoming a finished part of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a> streetscape, with much of Brighton's everyday amenity within a short walk.

Palace Cinema, Coles Supermarket and North Brighton Station are all around five minutes on foot from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/veil-brighton-17-rooding-street-brighton-vic-3186">Veil</a>, alongside numerous cafés, restaurants and bars. The station provides a direct rail connection toward Melbourne's CBD, while Bay Street and the wider Brighton retail and dining network add to the range of services accessible without relying on a car for every trip.

"The location was fundamental to the project. Brighton is an established suburb where many buyers already have strong connections to the area and want to remain close to the people, places and amenities that form part of their everyday life," the developer said.

"Veil sits in a highly walkable part of Brighton, with a Walk Score of 90/100."

For buyers looking to right-size within Bayside, that level of walkability adds to the appeal of a more manageable way of living. Everyday shopping, dining, entertainment and public transport can be accessed without relying on the car for every trip, while residents remain connected to the places and routines that make Brighton familiar. It allows buyers to simplify day-to-day life without giving up the convenience, amenity and connections they already value.

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As completion approaches, the architecture, landscaping and material palette are progressively becoming visible on site, giving prospective purchasers a clearer view of the finished development beyond its plans and renders.

Veil comprises nine townhouses, predominantly three-bedroom homes with between 2.5 and 3.5 bathrooms, two car spaces and, depending on the residence, study areas and private outdoor space. Selected homes include a bedroom on the ground floor.

Veil occupies a middle ground between detached housing and apartment living, retaining private gardens, storage and secure parking within a more manageable residential format.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/schmidt-pang-architects">Schmidt &amp; Pang</a> designed the architecture around natural light, ventilation, privacy and practical use of space. From Rooding Street, the façade has been composed to read as a cohesive residential building rather than nine individual townhouses, with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a> integrated throughout the site.

Inside, natural stone, oak flooring, integrated joinery and brushed nickel finishes establish a restrained material palette, while kitchens include Miele appliances and substantial storage such as pantries. Walk-in robes and dedicated study spaces have also been incorporated across the collection.

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The project team said the planning of the homes has been informed by how the spaces function for both daily routines and larger gatherings.

"Our new homes owners at Veil have enjoyed the attention to detail in creating efficient layouts that use every space well. Hosting Christmas lunch and large family gatherings is an ease when care is taken to consider how people really live and entertain."

Private landscaped gardens extend the living spaces outdoors, while secure basement parking and bicycle parking are provided below. The homes have also been designed to achieve a 7-star energy rating, supported by double glazing, high-quality insulation, natural ventilation, LED lighting, water tanks and water-efficient fittings. Each residence is backed by a 10-year building guarantee.

Veil is being built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/jeniton">Jeniton</a>.&nbsp;Limited-time stamp duty savings are also currently available on selected purchases at Veil, adding another consideration as the project moves toward completion.

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Veil Brighton nears completion in one of the suburb's most walkable pockets

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a> has recorded 134 sales worth just over $400 million in two months of pre-release activity at The Riversdale, as the developer brings its $750 million South Brisbane riverfront project to the broader market.

The sales represent more than 60 per cent of the project's 213 apartments, with Mosaic reporting the majority of purchasers have been local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale</a> will rise 39 storeys from its north-facing site at 91 Montague Road, delivering a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments alongside a collection of Mosaic's premium Masterpiece Series Sky Homes.

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The early buyer response comes ahead of the wider evolution of the northern end of Montague Road, where The Riversdale will be one of the first major residential projects delivered within an emerging riverfront precinct.

Directly adjoining the development is a planned 7.1-hectare mixed-use precinct, set to introduce new residences, parkland and public realm along the river's edge. The Riversdale's position directly on the Brisbane River gives it a relationship with the waterfront that Mosaic says cannot be replicated by future buildings within the precinct.

The site is also the result of a years-long pursuit by Mosaic. The developer first earmarked the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-brisbane-qld-4101">South Brisbane</a> property in 2018, reflecting what Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan has described as a deliberately patient approach to acquiring development sites.

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"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan previously told Apartments.com.au.

"Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau Proberts</a>, The Riversdale has been shaped around the qualities of the riverfront site, with apartments oriented to capture northern light and uninterrupted Brisbane River views.

Generous floorplans and expansive balconies extend the living spaces towards the river, while natural materials and a restrained interior palette have been selected with longevity in mind.

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Residents will have access to a level of amenity more commonly associated with world-class hotels and private members' clubs, with almost 3,000 sqm dedicated to wellness, connection, recreation and everyday convenience.

At ground level is a business lounge, private meeting rooms and dedicated workspaces. Mid-tower is a wellness sanctuary featuring magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, sauna, steam room, infrared therapy facilities, a Pilates and yoga studio, and a commercial-grade gymnasium.

Crowning The Riversdale is a rooftop featuring a 35-metre swimming pool with lap lane and spa, outdoor dining and seating terraces, firepit lounges and views of the city, river and Mount Coot-tha.

A private members' club-inspired retreat offers private dining rooms, a whisky lounge, media rooms and immersive entertainment experiences. Completing the amenity offering are two hotel-style guest suites and a resident-exclusive electric vehicle fleet and car-share program.

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The Riversdale sits at the northern end of Montague Road between South Bank and West End, around 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, providing access to the city's major cultural, dining and recreation precincts.

It becomes Mosaic's largest Brisbane project to date and adds to a pipeline already under construction across the city.

In Brisbane, the developer is currently delivering The Bedford and The Carter at Kangaroo Point, both of which are approaching sell-out, with a further four projects being delivered on the Gold Coast. Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects since 2012 and has a further development pipeline exceeding $2 billion across South East Queensland.

Early works are underway at The Riversdale, which will be delivered by Mosaic's in-house construction division. Completion is anticipated in late 2029, with remaining apartments priced from $1.98 million.

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Mosaic records more than $400m in two months at South Brisbane's The Riversdale

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

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The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

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Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

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This standard strategy is even more attractive if you expect your tax rate to be higher this financial year than next.
Ways to accelerate deductions include prepaying eligible expenses and carrying out last-minute repairs to your properties.
Individuals can claim immediate tax deductions for the prepayment by June 30 of such expenses as loan interest and insurance, covering periods of up to 12 months.
See our free ebook on the <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-top-24-tax-strategies" target="_blank">top 24 tax strategies</a> for property investors.
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Accelerate deductions

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A Victorian era 1889-built brick office building in Melbourne’s iconic Hardware Lane has undergone some tenancy changes recently following an upgrade.

Located at<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-melbourne-500251949" target="_blank"> 67-73 Hardware Lane</a> (pictured below), the recently refurbished building boasts boutique-styled offices with timber floors, as well as French doors leading to Hardware Lane.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/07/hardwarejuly3one.jpg" width="470" height="300" alt="hardwarejuly3one">
Creative communications agency Lavender Communications, who currently occupies the second level, will be moving within the same building to level three from July 1. 
Their new premises offers a larger 182 square metre space, which will be able to accommodate a growing business. 
They have signed a two-year lease at a gross rate of $505 per square metre. The lease was negotiated through Rory White of Gray Johnson Melbourne. 
In addition, a modest rent-free incentive of two months is attached to the transfer of offices, said White. 
Level two has also been leased by Gray Johnson Melbourne, to IT business Magnetised Markets. The company will be moving from 121 Flinders Lane to the new space. Their lease stipulates a gross rate of $475 per square metre.
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Tenancy changes for iconic Hardware Lane building

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The former Campsie factory site of electrical appliance maker Sunbeam is now being transformed.
It's now a coffee-culture residential development.
Its third release of 95 Parklife apartments (pictured below) in what's now known as Clemton Park Village are now being sold.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/07/july3clemtonparktwo]}
Prior to residential zoning, Sunbeam owned the land from 1951 to 2002.
Before this, the block was Mackinders Market Garden farming potatoes, beetroot, carrots, pumpkin and squashes.
<a href="https://www.cpvillage.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">Clemton Park Village</a> will be a 700 apartment development which will also include a mix of retail opportunities including cafes, restaurants, a childcare centre and a supermarket.
The first two stages of the development have now sold about 90% of their residences.
One-bedroom apartments start at $430,000 and apartments with two bedrooms and two bathrooms are priced up to $580,000.
A range of buyers have purchased apartments at Clemton Park, said Nigel Edgar, NSW residential division general manager of developer, Australand.
“Typically half of Clemton Park buyers have been investors and the other half are a mixture between first home buyers and locals who are choosing to downsize.”
Their website is also tailored to prospective Chinese buyers, due to the development’s location.
“There’s a lot of Chinese or Asian residents in the local community and we’re finding that it’s reflective of the mix in the community,” he said.
The median price of an apartment in Campsie is $385,000 up 40% from five years ago, according to RP Data.
The median asking rent for an apartment in the suburb is $370 showing an indicative gross rental yield of 5%.
Within the suburb, a two-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-campsie-113831771" target="_blank">7/56 Ninth Avenue</a> is on the market for $439,000 after selling for $315,000 in March 2009.
A two-bedroom 1970s apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-campsie-113587627" target="_blank">9/138 Ninth Avenue Campsie</a> sold in April for $392,000 after it was sold for $209,000 in November 2005. It is now up for lease at $380 per week.
The first stage of Clemton Park is complete, construction of the second stage will finish in December this year and the final stage of the development will be completed in 2016.
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Former factory site Clemton Park in Campsie releases third lot of apartments with one-bedders starting at $430,000

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I recently came across a method of property purchasing common to the people in Brazil who are interested in buying residential property in their home country.
The concept was initally foreign to me so I felt compelled to write about it, because I've never come across anything like it in my property life.
It is the concept or rather, practice of Consórcios (literally translated, means ‘Consortiums’). This is where would-be property buyers who perhaps either struggled to get a mortgage on their own from a lender, or did not see the value in paying wasted ‘interest’ dollars, or should I say ‘Reais’ (pronounced ‘hay-ice’) to a lender, group together with other like-minded folks, in the interest of a common goal; home ownership.
Instead of approaching lenders for loans, the group do not use loans. Instead, they use a lawyer and an administrative company who, for a fee, underwrite a sound contract between all participants of the consortium. The price of a single property is then agreed between all parties and is kept the same. The value of all properties is added together and split into monthly instalments.
From month #1 onwards; each participant must pay their fee. After a very short time, there are enough fees paid for one property. So who gets the first one?
A lottery is drawn at random and whoever is luckiest gets their property purchased outright – mortgage-free. Participants (including the now lucky new home owner participant) continue paying their monthly allotments for the remainder of the contract. Each month another name gets drawn and a property is bought for that ‘winner’.
I will divulge the flaws and risks in such a plan later on, but astute readers can probably quite easily identify a few challenges with this concept already.
<a imageanchor="1" href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HKcy_PKWD8M/Uc6Hy1OPa-I/AAAAAAAAAfk/R77e36vuC9Q/s531/Brazil+consorcio+group+buying+Australia+property+investment+alternative+buying+approaches.JPG"></a>
There is more granular detail on Consorcio schemes <a target="_blank" href="https://thebrazilbusiness.com/article/consorcio-in-brazil">here</a>.
So let me work with some real numbers as an example, before this gets confusing. Let’s say 10 would-be property buyers group together and form a Consortium. Let’s say they each agreed they wanted a property costing $400,000 each. So that is $4 million of overall property value.
The Consortium Administrator divvies up $4 million dollars across say a 10-year period, into monthly instalments that each participant must pay, month in, month out; regardless of who ‘wins’ their property bought at every annual draw (remember it is annual because in this example, there are 10 participants buying 10 properties over 10 years; to keep it simple; so – one per year).
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
For the purposes of this example let’s ignore the inclusion of any legal/admin fees for now and just focus on the concept. So, $4 million/10 years/12 months/10 participants = $3,333.33 cost-per-month-per-participant. Not too bad when you consider that this is you fixed monthly repayment for ten years, and then after ten years you own the property outright, huh?
However, this is where the risks and element of chance/gambling comes in to it. Each year, a participant is pulled out of the hat and awarded a property. Because $400K is collected every 12 months, a property can be purchased outright (cash), each 12 months.
So, the best case scenario you could find yourself in, in such an arrangement, would be to be pulled out after 12 months, or maybe in year #2 or #3. This means that you get to move into your new home the fastest, and you ‘own’ it instantly (but of course are committed to 9, 8, or 7 more years of payments like everyone else). It also means that you can ‘go shopping’ for a $400K property when the property you want is actually worth $400K at the time.
Clearly then, the ‘losers’ in this scheme are those who are drawn in years #8, #9, and #10.
Not only have you had to fork out payments on everyone else’s properties for 8-10 years depending on the final year you are drawn; but you are stuck with just $400K to spend at the end, just like everything else. Problem is, $400K, ten years down the track, does not buy what it used to! Suddenly the property type that you fancied 8-10 years ago that was $400K, is now hundreds of thousands of dollars more expensive, right?
However, even in this unfortunate circumstance, I would argue that a participants’ position is not entirely weakened. Remember that for almost ten years you have avoided paying interest; only paying capital. If you took out a $400K interest-only loan at a flat interest rate of say 5% per year (which is very conservative and based only on the record-low interest rate environment in July 2013); you would pay around $200,000 in interest anyways.
So, even as a year #10 ‘loser’, and providing you can save up the amount you would have paid in interest, over ten years; you still end up in a very similar position really; you’ll have $600K in your pocket to go shopping then and there; and own a property outright in year ten.
At the end of the day though; as a year #10 loser, you really do lose out. You would have to live every day with not one but three property outgoing costs; you’d be paying rent (you’ll need somewhere to live whilst you wait!), whilst paying consortium commitments every month (remember, I neglected to include the legal and administration fees payable in addition every month; though this is a minute fraction of the cost you’d be paying in interest to a lender), whilst also saving a little extra to safeguard you should you be a year #10 loser, so you can still afford a relevant property by then.
But I guess that is the gamble of such a scheme. Another gray area of the scheme which I could not get specific clarity on; was insurances. What if participants stopped paying after a few years and skipped town? I would imagine the administration fees include insurance schedules, but these premiums would surely come at significant cost.
In the real world, you can enter much safer Consorcios in Brazil, whereby there are not ten members, but thousands (remember, Brazil is a population of almost 200 million people); and the duration of a consorcio may be more flexible than ten years (either shorter or longer). The best part of this is that you can choose different types, from these Consorcio administrations, depending on your risk profile and needs upcoming.
What surprises me most about this concept is how much Banco Central Do Brasil (Central Bank of Brazil); embraces this practice. Consortiums sound like, to me, a massive ‘middle finger’ to the big banks; and offer a way for like-minded property buyers to have a secure means to effectively chip in and pay for each other’s properties whilst avoiding interest repayments for as long as possible.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Plus, the management/administration/legal/insurance costs would need to be paid by all participants, along the way. In many ways, it is the banks genuinely doing people a favour. It is like saying ‘sorry, we won’t approve you for a mortgage with us, but we do offer administration services for consortium arrangements, should you want to participate in one of those, we can help organise it’.
The bank is happy because it takes on additional revenue, but with much less risk associated. Consorcios are actually more commonly used in Brazil for smaller ticket items such as car purchases, than homes, and this makes sound logical sense. Lower risk and exposure for all participants.
<a imageanchor="1" href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-23speK2M01c/Uc6Hy5_5uMI/AAAAAAAAAfo/RufZJzp43Ko/s481/Group+Buying+Property+investment+in+Brazil+techniques+for+Australian+investors+Property+Blog.JPG"></a>
Thinking in an Australian context; there are ways you could make this concept work, and it all comes down to scale.
For example, if you entered a smaller scheme such as my example, then the administrator would ensure that seeing as a property needs purchasing only once every year; for the other eleven months of the year; everyone’s contributions would be working hard in a high-interest savings account. This interest would help pay for the legal and administration costs each year; saving the participants money.
You could take this one step further and perhaps park some of the interest earnings from the first say five years, to offset those participants who have to wait for the last five years, to help offset some of the challenges they face when their name is drawn. This would give the ‘losing end’ of the lottery a ‘fair go’ – something very Australian in itself!
Beyond consortiums though, the concept of ‘group buying’ has been around for a long time in various countries, but just never as refined, legally binding, and prescriptive, as Brazil’s system. Thinking again to Australia; this time to the post-WWII Greek-Australian immigrants, arriving to the country for the first time with very little resources behind them.
The Greek community established itself quickly in Australia and brought with them a renewed sense of family closeness and trust that perhaps culturally, the Europeans exercised better than locals. Greek family and family-friend communities would group together across large extended families (so, sometimes up to dozens of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and so on); to ‘chip-in’ to buy each married-off sibling/cousin within the family; a property at the time of marriage, in cash. Then, once the first couple’s property was purchased outright; all family members (including the new property-owning youngster couple) would chip in for the next cousins’ wedding-property.
The problem is; this concept never took off in any formal capacity in Australia, because, well, there was no infrastructure or 3rd party governing body able to reside over these arrangements, making them high-risk and entirely based on human trust.
If we were to add in the element of legal certainty and responsibility, along with insurance and security in; when introducing such a concept in Australia, these costs would add greatly to the participant cost (It is very expensive to do business in Australia in a legally binding, and insurance-covered fashion!). Plus; if a participant skipped town and stopped paying their share; the entire house-of-cards structure would topple if the insurer challenged the consortium or group-buying association’s circumstances.
Still, one must wonder; even with these legal and insurance costs included, it would still be cheaper than paying all that bank interest on each property, over the years, no?
So from my limited understanding of this scheme, I would still argue that, when you consider the first home buyer market in Australia; the relevance and introduction of a practice such as Consorcios would still be conversation worth having.
The truth is that although the motivator Brazilians entering into a consortium versus Australians is very different, it is just as relevant here as it is there. In Brazil, the major barrier to people getting mortgages to buy property is demanding credit rating assessment approval, which sees would-be house buyers not progress through to finance approval.
Usually applicants are hard-working, reliable people; however on paper, the lenders may not agree that their stability is so, well, stable. In Australia it is a different problem. Lenders have more confidence that applicants have stable incomes; it is just that the marketplace here is so expensive; first-home buyers are hard-placed to agree.
For investors it is a different story. Because you may not own a property for many years; you cannot rent it out, meaning it cannot earn income. This does not make for a good investment.
Cameron McEvoy is a NSW-based property investor and maintains a blog, <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://propertyspectator.blogspot.com.au/">Property Correspondent.</a>
 
 
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An unusual Brazilian property buying scheme that is relevant to Australia: Cameron McEvoy

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Recently I was speaking with an investor who was facing a major dilemma. He had bought an apartment in Abbotsford off-the-plan and now that the property was due to settle he was having problems getting finance approved.  
This was causing him significant stress, as the penalties for not settling are significant. They include losing his deposit and the risk of being sued by the vendor to cover any out of pocket expenses.  
As we discussed his situation it soon became clear how murky his position had become.  
The sales person told him the property had originally been purchased 12 months earlier for $450,000 and was now being on sold prior to completion. Although due to the fact the property had never been settled there was no way to confirm this was correct.  On the surface it appeared to this individual the asking price of $406,000 was a bargain to good to refuse and he signed a contract to purchase the property.  
Prior to signing the contract he had put in place a loan preapproval so he was confident getting a loan would not be an issue and as a result did not buy subject to finance. The next hurdle to clear was to get unconditionally approved. To do this his bank ordered a valuation and this is where his problems started.  
The valuation came back a long way below the contract price at $340,000 and he was being forced him into a position where he would be unable to settle. The real estate mantra of Caveat Emptor, Buyer Beware, meant severe penalties were looming.      
Not all was lost however and like going to a doctor for a second opinion he approached a different bank. Sure enough the valuation came back at the purchase price and his loan was approved.        
So how can one bank value a property so much less than another? The answer lies in the individual bank's tolerance for risk and the kind of property they view as being a safe security.  
The Abbotsford apartment had one bedroom and was only 37m2. Although one-bedroom apartments can make great investments if they are under 50m2 alarm bells start ringing at many banks. A small apartment size is a signal the property maybe a serviced apartment or student accommodation which most banks approach with trepidation.  
In addition banks have postcode restrictions in place that determine their lending policies and these vary from bank to bank. Established apartment markets such as South Yarra and Port Melbourne are more likely to get the nod. However an apartment under 50m2 in an emerging market like Abbotsford is more likely face harsher lending policies.  
Although the valuation is independent the valuer will have an understanding of the banks policy and take this into account. Remember if a valuation comes in too high and the bank loses money on the loan then the valuer maybe legally liable.  
Mark Armstrong is a director of <a href="https://www.ipropertyplan.com.au/">iProperty Plan</a>, which provides independent analysis and tailored advice to investors and home buyers.
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The murky waters of bank valuations: Mark Armstrong

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Melbourne CBD office market is moving firmly in favour of tenants, with independent analyst BIS Shrapnel recently reporting an expectation that commercial vacancy in the Melbourne CBD will hit 10% by year end, challenging commercial rental levels and driving greater incentives from landlords. 
With the ball now firmly in the tenant’s court, why then are Melbourne tenants 50% less likely to seek independent advice in negotiating a lease in their own favour?   There has never been a better time for Melbourne’s tenant community to negotiate or renegotiate a commercial lease, but so many unsuspecting tenants are leaving a lot of money on the table by not fighting harder for greater value in their lease negotiations.  
Business owners who might be very commercially savvy, don’t work in the commercial property market day to day, so they are not familiar with the smart ways to work with a landlord to reduce costs and leverage their lease covenants to benefit their organisations”. Melbourne tenants seeking new sites and workplaces are reaching out to us, asking how they can capitalise on the rising vacancy trend they see coming and we are starting to see a significant desire for guidance through the site selection and negotiation process.  
In Victoria, nearly 70% of tenants negotiate their lease without professional help according to PCG.  This is probably expected in a rising market, but as markets fall, tenants become more commercially savvy, and chase greater bang for their buck, so we are watching this trend slowly start to shift. Melbourne’s low representation rates are a disparity with the rest of the country.   In Sydney, more than 95% of tenants are represented by independent tenant advisers, and Brisbane where 75% are represented.  
And evidence shows it is worth their while.  In our experience, engaging a tenant representative to negotiate on your behalf can save between 20 to 30% of the total property commitment cost.  And that money can go right back into the pocket of the tenant… rather than deeper into the Landlord’s pocket.  What everyone forgets is that the commercial or industrial leasing agent is an agent working purely in support of the Landlord. His or her commercial agenda is diametrically opposed to that of the tenant. His or her interest in the tenant extends only to getting the lease done at the maximum price with the lowest incentive possible.    
In other states, a tenant representative is engaged by more than 90% of tenants, which makes more sense given the long term nature of a commercial property lease.  I don’t understand why a tenant wouldn’t seek independent property representation in this day and age… The agent simply isn’t on your team, and there is no industry body that looks after the tenant in Australia.
Even Corenet Global, the industry body for commercial real estate says their charter is about 'Real Estate Professionals' not 'Tenants'.  
But I ask you, who looks after the tenant?  It’s about time somebody did… I guess that’s our job.
Simon Gunnis is the CEO of real estate advisory specialist <a href="https://www.pcg.com.au/" target="_blank">PCG</a>.
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Commercial tenants in Melbourne leave too much money on the table: Simon Gunnis

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There were 20 CBD office sales above $100 million each recorded over the final quarter of the 2013 financial year, according to Knight Frank.
It was the fourth successive June quarter that sales of offices over $100 million have risen.
The biggest sale over the course of 2013 was Charter Hall forming a partnership with a local super fund and a Canadian pension fund to acquire Bankwest Place and the associated Raine Square shopping centre in the Perth CBD for $458 million.
<img alt="knight_frank" height="282" width="297" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/knight_frank.jpg">
Source: Knight Frank
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Major CBD office sales continue to surge: Chart of the week

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A Shanghai-based development company has acquired an office and warehouse building spanning from Bourke Street to Little Bourke Street with approval for a 42 level Hayball-designed apartment project comprising 563 apartments.
The part three level, part single level building has a red-brick façade on Bourke Street that is heritage protected.
The site measures 2,764 square metres and was owned by Australia Post, which currently uses it as a distribution centre.
A permit has recently been issued for the apartment project which would comprise to two towers of 42 and 32 stories as well as 722 square metres of commercial/retail on ground floor, 249 car parks and storage space for around 169 bikes.
It had previously been listed for sale in 1999.
The proposed development is close to the $1 billion Upper West Side four-tower development being built by the Hong Kong-listed Far East Consortium.
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Chinese buyer acquires Bourke Street development site for $22 million

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What would a city look like if you got to rebuild it from scratch? And how would you incorporate more than 100,000 ideas from the people who matter the most – the stoic individuals who continue to call Christchurch home?
During a holiday visit to my hometown of Christchurch in late April, I sat down with the man charged with rebuilding New Zealand’s second largest city and discovered a city on the cusp of rebirth.
More than two years before, however, I remember standing in the lunch-room of the REIQ’s Brisbane office on 22 February 2011 and watching as the Christchurch Cathedral crumbled on live television right before my very eyes.
Just six weeks after the Queensland floods and Cyclone Yasi, another natural disaster – this time earthquake – had befallen my life and I watched through tears and an almost overwhelming sense of fear for my family and friends as the place I used to call home was almost wiped from the map.
More than two years – and thousands of after-shocks – later, Christchurch continues to be mostly unrecognisable. One in two roads in the entire Canterbury province reportedly needs repairing so patience is a virtue that is an absolute necessity for anyone driving around the region. In fact, orange witches-hats and mesh fences are ubiquitous.
The central city has, for the most part, been reopened but it is an eerie experience to drive through what was once a thriving CBD populated by thousands of people. More than 1,000 buildings are being demolished in the central city and for someone like me, who remembers clearly the way it used to be, that means I often found myself rather discombobulated with no sense of where I was at all. Indeed, sometimes it felt like I was driving on the moon.
But it is not the moon, it is New Zealand’s second largest city and it must rise from the ashes for the sake of the country’s economy, and for the sake of hundreds of thousands of courageous souls who are waiting and watching for their home to be reborn.
Warwick Isaacs is the man whose shoulders this heavy burden now rests but to him it’s not a burden it’s a privilege. He heads up the Christchurch Central Development Unit (CCDU), a government-created unit, charged with rebuilding the city between the four avenues which have long defined the inner-city precinct of Christchurch.
For a man with such a task ahead of him, he is a relaxed, easy-going individual, who was also happy to sit down with an ex-Kiwi from across the ditch to explain the unique opportunity now available to civic leaders, developers and residents alike.
“The devastation by the earthquake has been quite extreme in the central city,” he says as we sit in the CCDU offices located in one of the few commercial buildings to survive the 2011 earthquake.
“If you look at the central city it’s almost like someone has pointed an arrow and said: ‘That’s where we want to hit’ because that’s the impact.
“Between these four avenues there is in excess of 1,000 buildings being demolished and the very heart as you would have seen, the landscape is almost back to Ground Zero.
“What the recovery plan is about is, there were over 100,000 submissions from people in Canterbury and businesses and people from afar as well, that went to the council process – it was called Share an Idea.
“New thinking has come to Christchurch. There are opportunities the earthquakes have given us – it’s been a tragic thing – but there are opportunities to reinvigorate and revitalise, and set the tone for Christchurch as a future city rather than a city that’s still evolving from its past heritage.”
Nicola McDougall is the <a href="https://reiqblog.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">REIQ</a>’s executive manager of corporate affairs.
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What would it take to rebuild a city from scratch? The Christchurch experience: Nicola McDougall

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A local Melbourne investor has bought an office/warehouse at Oakleigh in Melbourne's south east for $550,000.
The tenanted premises 58 Regent Street, Oakleigh sold for above the reserve through Ray White Commercial Oakleigh’s Ryan Amler and George Kelepouris on behalf of a local investor. 
The current tenant is on a month to month lease returning $31,800 per annum plus GST plus outgoings - a yield of around 5.7%.
Amler said the marketing campaign for the building attracted more than 30 enquiries. 
“We had four registered bidders at the on-site auction and after some spirited bidding the property sold under the hammer for $550,000 - $75,000 above the reserve,” he said.
The stand-alone warehouse is situated on a land area of around 484 square metres and the total building area measures around 330 square metres. 
“The property featured a high clearance warehouse with a container height electric roller door,” he said. 
“There were six on-site car spaces and easy access to Oakleigh central.” 
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