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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Despite a deterioration in underlying market conditions over the past 12 months, offshore investors are expected to continue to pour money into Australian commercial property, according to Paul Braddick head of property research at ANZ.
Braddick notes in the June ANZ commercial property update that "tenant demand has weakened, vacancies and incentives have risen and rental growth has slowed, particularly for secondary properties".
"Nonetheless, the global flood of liquidity, a heightened appetite for yield and the recent sharp decline in the Australian dollar are expected to continue to support investor interest in Australian commercial property (although to date offshore demand has been heavily focused on prime properties)," says Braddick.
The following graph demonstrates that offshore investment in Australian office property has not dampened despite a deterioration in demand for office space:
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<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/06/chartoftheweekjune19one.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/chartoftheweekjune19two.gif"></a>
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Offshore investors attracted to Australian commercial property despite deteriorating fundamentals: Chart of the week

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The property market pessimists are crying capital growth in the Australian property market is dead forever and the only direction prices will go are down. Yet year after year there are properties that prove them wrong.
Much has been spoken about the global property market and that our market will ultimately follow a similar fate and I am always at pains to point out not all property is created equal. This applies to most cities around the world.
Take a look at the two properties below. The property on the left is located in the bluest of blue chip suburb of South Yarra. The one on the right is located in London’s equivalent blue chip area of Kensington.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune19one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune19onethumb.gif"></a>
The apartments are very similar in terms of character and size as the floor plans below illustrate.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune19two.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune19twothumb.gif"></a>
The South Yarra property recently sold for $520,000 and the London apartment has a value of a million pounds or $1.7 million. This means a comparable one-bedroom apartment in London is worth more than three times as much as the one in Melbourne.
There is a perception that growth for this London apartment has run out of steam but the statistics suggest otherwise.
In recent years the UK market as a whole has been weak with property prices falling slightly. According to Nationwide property prices have slipped back by 2.76% over the last 12 months. However this is in stark contrast to the market in Kensington that has grown by a whopping 15.8% in the 12 months to March.
I am not suggesting our market is the same as London’s given their population is double ours. In addition their market is much older, more established and on the doorstep of Europe. However our blue chip markets are driven by the same demographic factors and are following a similar path of growth and demand.
When I attend an auction for an apartment like this one in South Yarra I often see the same cross section of buyers competing.
I often see a young people bidding who are being backed up by their parents' wealth. More often than not they have grown up in the area and want to stay close to their family roots. The next group are the baby boomers that are downsizing and again want to stay close to their social networks. The last group are investors who want a safe blue chip investment that will always have strong tenant demand.
These three groups represent the most powerful financial muscle in our economy and they have the capacity to continue to drive growth in these markets.
There is no doubt that properties with these demographics factors driving their value will continue to grow in the coming years and this South Yarra property will be worth close to $1 million or more in the next 10 years or so.
The property pessimists will say I have just picked the eyes out of the market and isolated one example of a property that will preform well in coming years. That is precisely what I have done because identifying the small percentage of good assets in any market is exactly what educated investing is all about.
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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Still room for growth in blue chip suburbs so long as you make good decisions: Mark Armstrong

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The recent baby boom in the City of Melbourne has meant existing community facilities are unable to cope with demand.
Interestingly, the boom is largely attributed to the CBD. If there was ever proof of the shift towards urbanised living: this has to be it.
New facilities are being planned to cater for the unexpected number of new babies in the municipality, covering the CBD and a number of Melbourne's inner suburbs. The facilities will provide postnatal care, and venues forparent programs and play groups.
It is well documented that a concentration of student populations can act as a precursor for urban renewal, which in turn provides the catalyst for others, such as single professionals and young urbanites to follow. The recent baby boom shows that new families are the next wave of central city apartment dwellers.
Whilst raising a family in the suburbs may be less expensive, for many this scenario is no longer the preferred option. With congestion bearing heavily on liveability and making for expensive and time-consuming car usage, the better option is to reside closer to the CBD.
As a result, diverse medium and high-rise apartment developments should be a focus, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, to manage both an increase in population and changes in housing preferences.
The future of housing architecture will need to be configured for a diverse range of households and consider demographic aspects such as age and culture. If we also believe affordability – in terms of both purchase price and ongoing cost of running – is a long-term consideration for a family, then we will require more from less as the size of dwellings reduces.
Future housing demand will necessitate greater flexibility in the design of small apartments, at a workable cost level, appealing to diverse household types. A pre-industrial era village or traditional old-fashioned neighbourhood offers each of its residents a chance to develop the network of bonds amongst each other that underpins a healthy community. In this setting, residents can work from home (65% of new businesses start in the home), study, raise a family, house extended families, retire or just hang out.
We will see vertical neighbourhoods consisting of a range of apartments attractive to a range of occupants. There may be roof top gardens for growing food or practicing tai-chi and book clubs or dining clubs can form, catering for the traditional community feel of earlier low rise developments.
While apartments as small as 25 to 30 square metres provide an entry point for home ownership and can accommodate an elderly relative, adolescent or adult child, apartments of 55 square metres can be configured to accommodate a living area, kitchen, bathroom and two other flexible spaces – one being a bedroom and the other possibly being a nursery enabling the families looking to live inner-city.
What this suggests is that the planning policies for our cities must have an inherent ability to dissect and discern direction and flexibly respond to challenges of social change and increasing diversity.
We as a society are changing too rapidly to recycle or rebrand conventional solutions or resort to stereotype prejudices about what constitutes appropriate housing standards, particularly when it comes to apartments and flats.
New development stemming from population growth requires an open mind by governments and planners. Higher density developments are one basic solution to restrict the waste of arable land, reliance on cars as primary transport and provide better-networked communities.
Other forms of inner city and central apartments have been generally accepted and are very much a part of the increasingly diverse society we now have. The fear of density remains palpable in determining planning policy.
Whilst it has been widely accepted that traditional two parent households will be marginally less over the next two decades compared with the number of single households, predicted to soar by 63.7%, little has been forecast in Australia of apartments being a desired family home.
Architects, developers and planners need to recognise this as an emerging residential typology. The apartment-as-family-home is part of Melbourne’s future housing mix.
Rob Stent is a director Melbourne-based architecture, interior and urban design practice Hayball and is a past president of the Victorian chapter of the Australian Institute of Architects. Among the buildings he has designed is Lend Lease’s completed Serrata apartment building in Docklands, one of Melbourne's first apartment buildings to achieve a four-star Green Star rating.
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New high-rise apartment projects part of Melbourne's residential mix: Rob Stent

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The Sunnybrook Hotel in Warwick Farm in Sydney's southwest will be refurbished and open in September as a Holiday Inn Warwick Farm.
It will be the twenty-second Holiday Inn in Australia.
This follows a franchise agreement between InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG), which own the Holiday Inn brand and Oscars Hotels, which acquired the 146-room hotel in April 2011.
The refurbishment will include the guest rooms and restaurant.
IHG is expanding its presence in Australia with its first Holiday Inn Express to open in Perth in 2015 and with plans for around <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/perth-to-get-first-holiday-inn-express-as-city-occupancy-rate-hits-85/2013032760099">40 new Holiday Inn Expresses</a> to be build or developed over the next 10 years.
It has also partnered with hotel developer Jerry Schwartz to develop the Crowne Plaza hotels in the Hunter Valley and Newcastle as well as with Eureka Funds Management on other projects.
Recent refurbishment and rebranding projects include transforming the Clarion Hotel in Parramatta into the Holiday Inn Parramatta. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.sunnybrook.com.au/">Located at 355 Hume Highway Warwick Farm</a> on the site of the old Sunnybrook Winery, the revamped hotel will aim to meet the needs of the growing commercial and leisure based industries of south west Sydney. 
The hotel facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, a tavern adjacent to the hotel with gaming facilities, gymnasium, a meetings and events centre, heated outdoor swimming pool and generous onsite parking. 
Following the refurbishment of all guest rooms and the hotel restaurant, the gymnasium and swimming pool will be fully upgraded, as will the adjoining Oscars Tavern and the meeting and events centre (both due for completion in early 2014). 
Warwick Farm is close to the suburbs of Liverpool, Chipping Norton, Cabramatta and Moorebank.  It’s also central to leisure attractions such as Warwick Farm Racecourse and Warwick Farm Polo Fields. 
“The signing of Holiday Inn Warwick Farm is significant to our strategy of expanding the Holiday Inn brand across New South Wales," says  IHG Australasia head of development, Phil Kasselis. 
"The Liverpool local government area has been earmarked by the state as a major regional centre in Sydney, and this Holiday Inn will be ideally positioned to cater to growing demand for hotel accommodation there, offering a great guest experience” he adds. 
Bill Gravanis, owner of Oscars Hotels says the hotel will create a "real opportunity to significantly increase its share of corporate, meetings and leisure business in Sydney’s south west" .
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Sydney's southwest to get Holiday Inn with Sunnybrook Hotel makeover

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Prince Charles has reportedly spent £38 million on an industrial depot in Brinklow, Milton Keynes as part of £102 million property acquistions over the past four years, The Independent, has revealed.

The purchase of the vast supermarket warehouse was through the Duchy of Cornwall estate.
The newspaper reported it was one of the single largest acquisitions by the Duchy of Cornwall in its 670-year history.
It was completed 18 months ago but has been kept from being made public as Clarence House has declined to disclose any details of the expensive acquisition due to what the Prince's officials said was the Duchy's "private" status.
The Prince bought the sprawling grey warehouse complex in Milton Keynes from an Anglo-Indian property fund.
His tenants are Waitrose, who are using the depot as a lorry distribution hub. Waitrose Limited is an upmarket chain of British supermarkets, forming the food retail division of Britain's largest employee-owned retailer, the John Lewis group.
Under an arrangement which is now being scrutinised by Bristish MPs, the Duchy is exempt from capital gains and corporation tax.
Charles voluntarily pays income tax.
An investigation by The Independent revealed that the Duchy, which is one of Britain's largest private estates and owns more than 50,000 hectares of land, conducted property transactions worth at least £102 million between 2009 and last December.
Any sale or purchase by the Prince worth more than £500,000 must be approved by the Treasury.
The Duchy's holdings worth £693 million stretch across 23 counties.
They include most of the Scilly Isles, Dartmoor Prison, the Oval cricket ground in central London and a Holiday Inn in Reading.
It also owns the Prince's private homes such as Highgrove.
Waitrose has recently expanded its Milton Keynes space with another 318,000 square foot plus distribution centre, located in Snelshall West, Milton Keynes through Colliers International.  Waitrose took a five-year lease at a rental rising to £5.95 per sq ft, and will continue to occupy its nearby Brinklow facility, which will now concentrate on fresh foods.
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Prince Charles invests in UK industrial warehouse

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Property Observer recently reported that the Australian Tax Office will write to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tax/ato-to-write-to-110000-rental-property-owners-over-incorrect-rent-deductions/2013061262175" target="_blank">110,000 property investors</a> over concerns they may have claimed rental property deductions they were not entitled to claim.
The ATO now has sophisticated data-mining tools that pick up inconsistencies in tax returns compared with previous years.
With around two-thirds of property investors negatively gearing their rental properties, knowing what you can and cannot claim is vital.
These are four rental property deductions that are not allowed:
<ol>
<li>Acquisition and disposal costs of the property</li>
<li>Expenses not actually incurred by you, such as water or electricity charges borne by your tenants</li>
<li>Expenses that are not related to the rental of a property, such as expenses connected to your own use of a holiday home that you rent out for part of the year</li>
<li>Borrowing expenses or interest on the portion of the loan you use for private purposes like buying a new car.</li>
</ol>
For tips on what you can claim as rental property deductions against your taxable income <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tax/seven-rental-property-deductions-property-investors-are-allowed-to-claim-to-reduce-their-tax-bill/2013061762279" target="_blank">click here.</a>
<ul></ul>
This advice is sourced from the ATO. It is of a general nature only and does not constitute financial advice. Investors should seek qualified professional financial and tax advice when completing their tax returns.
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Four rental property deductions property investors are not allowed to claim to reduce their tax bill

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Perceptions about Australian property being overvalued are significantly higher among first-home buyers then owner-occupiers, the latest QBE LMI Mortgage Barometer shows.
This was one of the key findings of the report, which found an overall improvement in sentiment about the property market with more than a quarter (26%) of Australians looking to buy property in the next 12 months despite nearly one in two believing it to be overvalued.
More than three quarters (76%) of first-home buyers believe property is overvalued with nearly half (48%) believing prices are overvalued by more than 10%.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/qbejune19one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/qbejune19onethumb.gif"></a>
In comparison just 41% of owner-occupiers and 48% of Australians believe property prices are overvalued, according to the online survey of 1,107 adult Australians responses of which 763 have a mortgage, 680 considering buying property and 399 qualifed as both.
This finding combined with concerns about changes to first-home buyer grants favouring new homes only and another finding from the survey - 69% of FHB respondents worry they’ll never be able to afford their own home – provide insights into why the segment of the market has shrunken in recent times.
Other findings from the report suggest a frustrated first-home buyers market despite recent improvements in affordability.
The report quotes ABS figures showing that since February 2013, the number of FHBs as a percentage of total owner-occupied housing commitments has fallen by more than 5% since September 2012 and now sits at 14% nationally, an eight year low. .
This is due to record low FHB commitments in NSW and QLD (both less than 10%) – a plunge of more than 10% since the grants were replaced, while other states saw FHB commitments rise.
"There are concerns that Victoria will follow suit as it replaces its First Home Owner Grant with a $10,000 newhome owner grant as of 30 June 2013," says the report.
Figures compiled the<a href="/news"> Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA)</a> found the number of home loans to NSW first-home buyer in the March quarter totalled 2,647 - 57% lower than a year ago and a 40.6% fall in the March quarter alone.
This was the largest annual decline recorded across the country but in line with a national trend of dwindling first-home buyer demand.
In Queensland, a state which has also cancelled its first-home owner grant in favour of a $15,000 handout for new homes in September last year, home loans to first-home buyer decreased by 43.7% over the March quarter  to 2,557 - the largest quarterly decline across the nation the REIA found.
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Overvalued, unaffordable property keeping first-home buyers on the sidelines: QBE LMI survey

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A two bedroom, one bathroom Waterloo, Sydney house with bespoke renovation concepts, has been sold for $868,000.
It sold through Ercan Ersan at BresicWhitney whose marketing suggested $800,000 plus.
The 138 square metre property comes with landscaped outdoor areas that have transformed the city-fringe terrace.
It cost $400,000 in 2004.
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Bespoke secures $868,000 in Waterloo

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Three penthouses in the One Central Park West development in Central Park have sold, with five penthouses still up for grabs with a price guide of $1,295,000 to $2,295,000.
Property Observer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/sky-at-one-central-park-preview/2013061262168">reported </a>on the public preview of the penthouses on June 15 and June 16.
{qtube vid:=B_AMa50iDCE&amp;feature=youtu.be}
Designed by Jean Nouvel and PTW Architects, the penthouses feature interiors designed by William Smart of Smart Design Studio.
Smart says they wanted to take what the car industry does with the interiors of its vehicles and apply that to apartments.
''A prestige brand will take luxury down to the smaller and more compact cars.
''We wanted to do the same," says Smart.
Two-bedroom penthouses start from 90 square metres and three-bedders start from 200 square metres in size.
Each penthouse boasts a large timber-decked terrace, enclosed by glass balustrades and deep garden beds.
The three-bedroom penthouses located on the 16th floor of One Central Park's west tower feature a 57-square-metre outdoor space and over 20 square metres of garden.
Potential buyers will have the choice of four colour schemes for their apartment, Oak, Ebony, Tangerine and Bronze.
The penthouses also include appliances by Miele.
Residents of the skyhomes will have exclusive access to a level-29 sky garden, a plunge pool, barbeque and landscaping.
One Central Park's west tower is part of the $2 billion Central Park development on Broadway in Sydney's Chippendale, an ongoing development of Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House.
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Five penthouses in One Central Park West on the market for $1,295,000 to $2,295,000

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American-style diner and hot dog specialists Massive Wieners has leased a 90 square metre shop space on Chapel Street in Prahran previously leased by fashion retailer Eurotrash.
Massive Wieners, which claims to make the ‘World’s Biggest Wiener’ will move from its current smaller space at nearby Greville Street, where the outlet has established a cult following, to the new store at 226 Chapel Street.
Eurotrash is moving to a shop across the road.
Last year the owners of Massive Wieners Dave Brennan and Liam Magee <a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151177317333928&amp;set=a.10150176541668928.330431.375498923927&amp;type=1&amp;theater">created a 25-inch (63.5-centimetre) hotdog roll.</a>
The 90 square metre shop was acquired in February this year by a private investor, who also acquired a similar sized shop next door at 224 Chapel Street in off-market sales negotiated by Charles Emmett and Kiran Pillai of Fitzroys.
The sale price was not disclosed.
The 226 Chapel Street store brings in rent of around $57,360 per annum.
The leasing deal, which will  see the diner occupy the ground floor over seven years with two further seven-year extensions, was negotiated by Fitzroys leasing agent Harry Curtis,
Curtis said Massive Wieners intended on opening a 24-hour traditional American-style diner, featuring their 1940s inspired “less is more approach”.
“The new Massive Wieners will bring a unique flavour to the area, with the landlord keen to see them open up at the location because of his enthusiasm for the concept,” he added.
Curtis said food retailers were taking a rising amount of space throughou Melbourne’s retail strips and shopping precincts.
Massive Wieners has catered for large organisations such as the AFL, L’Oreal, Vans Shoes, Microsoft/Xbox and MTV, and has appeared at The Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, St Kilda Festival 2013, Melbourne Central and Westfield.
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