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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355754]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355852]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7877]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371872]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=372083]

"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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371890]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371877]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151614]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

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

<html><body>
Amy and Sean, the renovation rookies paid $365,000 for their Brisbane home which is being renovated this week on the Channel 7 series, House Rules.
And their mortgage has been revealed as just $300,000, the smallest among the five competition couples, with NSW yet to be advised.
The previous smallest mortgage was Jane and Plinio in Hobart who paid $355,000 and have a $315,000 mortgage or prize at stake in the Channel 7 home renovation stress series.
The Hobart buyers had the cheapest house in the series hosted by Johanna Griggs. 
The 1960 Nundah, Brisband three bedroom house on a 405 square metre block sold through Go Gecko estate agent Renee Rennie in June last year.
It has 90 square metres of space.
Set nine kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, it was listed with $350,000 plus hopes.  It sold within nine days of its initial marketing with the title held in Sean's name.
RP Data gives <a target="_blank" href="/news">the suburb's median house price as $585,000</a>, having gone up 6.8% over the past year.
Property Observer reported this week that <a target="_blank" href="/news">renovation delights</a> are all the go in Brisbane this year.
The state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, delivers exiting true home renovations.
The six contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed. The prize is having their mortgage wiped completely.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/">Amy &amp; Sean</a> (Nundah, Queensland)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/">Nick and Chris</a> (Preston, Victoria)
Each of the six House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house, so the host Johanna Griggs expects lots of passion and pride in the way teams tackle the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
The highest mortgage, and therefore potential prize, is the $545,000 mortgage of the Perth newlyweds Jemma Blenkinsop, who runs a spray-tan business and builder, Ben Van Ryt.
They were first-home buyers in late 2011, but with the Perth property market the way it is, they couldn't afford to renovate their 1950s Melville home <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/house-rules-judging-with-%24545000-perth-mortgage-repayment-reward-possibility-on-the-line-houserules-theblock9/2013052061490">that cost $555,000</a>.
Adelaide's Carly and Leighton have a $450,000 mortgage secured to buy a 1957 sandstone house in Warradale.
The South Australian couple actually <a target="_blank" href="/news">paid $450,000 for the house </a>which had been listed with $485,000 hopes in May 2012.
Nick and Chris, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/preston-house-rules-renovation-with-%24524000-mortgage-after-%24555000-purchase/2013052961771">the Channel 7 Melbourne House Rules brothers bought their Californian bungalow in Preston</a> for $555,000 last August.
It comes with a mortgage of $524,ooo which will be wiped off the 1930s bungalow which went to July 2012 Ray White auction without success, subsequently being listed at $580,000.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Smallest mortgage rests with Amy and Sean, the Nundah renovation rookies in House Rules, Brisbane Queensland

<html><body>
The Australian construction market is the most adversarial in the world, with high costs placing Sydney as one of the five most expensive cities in the world to build commercial, multi-unit high rises and hotels.
In global firm AECOM's annual collection of data from more than 10,000 construction projects around the world, Sydney ranked in the top five most expensive cities for each category of development because of market conditions, including high labour costs.
The results found innovation and collaborative delivery on construction projects is needed to reduce costs and make construction more affordable.
The report also suggested the residential property market, which has recently been improving across Australia, particularly in Melbourne and Sydney, could "take up the slack" felt in the economy with the end of the resources boom.
The recovery of the housing market has been particularly evident in the apartment sector, with the report finding the rate of approvals for apartments is "well above its 20-year average".
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
</body></html>

yredrup-o4Anfe78KF

Sydney among world's most expensive cities for construction costs

<html><body>
Property developer Piccolo has acquired the Elwood RSL Club for $6.275 million.
The site (pictured below), advertised via public tender, sold through Chisholm &amp; Gamon Elwood.
<img alt="elwoodjune18one" height="253" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/elwoodjune18one.jpg">
Sam Gamon of Chisholm &amp; Gamon Elwood told Property Observer the site received about 38 submissions.
“That’s a really healthy sign for the popularity of the property market in the area," Sam Gamon said.
<img alt="elwoodjune18two" height="246" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/elwoodjune18two.jpg">
"It exceeded our expectations, with a landmark result for the area.
"It’s a real landmark because of its corner location.
"It’s a gateway to Elwood,” he said.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
The Elwood RSL opened soon after the World War II as a meeting place for ex-servicemen.
The property was originally a weatherboard house, Brett Gamon of Chisholm &amp; Gamon Elwood told Property Observer.
“In 1959, the members raised sufficient funds to build a new building on the site.
Over the years, it was fundamentally a meeting place for ex-servicemen. As time continued on, it became a social club as well,” he said.
Locals enjoyed the facilities available at the club, including a restaurant and a gaming area.
The Elwood RSL ceased operations in August last year, citing financial difficulties.
“Dwindling membership in terms of servicemen did become a problem for the club, [as well as] the aging building, and the number of people visiting the club. It got to the point where it had to rationalised and it was eventually sold,” Gamon said.
This will be Piccolo’s first Elwood development, after completing over 500 apartments in the last decade.
Last year, Property Observer <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/piccolos-upper-house-carlton-apartment-complex-secures-70-sellout-after-10-weeks/2012112158011">reported</a> that their latest project, Upper House in Carlton, has achieved significant sales success.
It has since almost sold out.
The developer is also responsible for the Garden House luxury apartments opposite Carlton Gardens.
Piccolo plans to create a mixed-use Elwood development consisting of ground-floor restaurants and luxury apartments.
Located on the corner of Pine Avenue and Ormond Road, the 1,404 square metre site is in a prime position, and is accessible from three sides.
“We are thrilled with the acquisition of this sought after site in Elwood," Piccolo director Michael Piccolo said.
Victorian RSLs has been quite active in the property market in recent years. The RSL sold an 1895 Windsor Place property in the city for $2.4 million as well as its St Kilda West branch for $3 million approximately two years ago, according to a recent report by The Age.
 
</body></html>

dleow-BGaNPbHWyK

Property developer Piccolo acquires the Elwood RSL Club for $6.275 million

<html><body>
The number of owner-occupier home loan commitments in April lifted by just 0.8% to 48,475 mortgages  (up 6.9% over the past 12 months) with little improvement in first-home buyer participation, according to the latest ABS housing finance figures.
While mortgage broker Loan Market notes this was the highest monthly uptake of home loans since November 2009 and the fifth consecutive month of growth for the "struggling sector" it was significantly below the median forecast of a 2% rise in seasonally-adjusted dwelling commitments to owner occupiers in April based on the views of 26 economists polled by Bloomberg last week.
Westpac's economics team called the latest monthly figures "underwhelming" noting that "although approvals remain broadly consistent with a housing recovery, the strength of the upturn remains disappointing given the low level of interest rates".
"The detail showed loans excluding refinancing were down 0.7% in April although they are stronger in through the year growth terms (up 11.5% for the year vs 6.9% annual growth for total lending).
"Looking by state, NSW, SA and WA continue to lead the recovery with approvals (excluding refinancing) posting strong double-digit annual growth.
"Victoria and Queensland are the laggards with both recording declines in approvals (excluding refinancing) in April," says Westpac.
In value terms, loans to owner occupiers fell 0.9% to $14.6 billion while investment housing fixed loans rose 1.1% in value terms to $8.14 billion - indicating stronger demand for housing from property investors over owner occupiers
<img height="205" width="313" src="/images/stories/april3grandview/dwellings_financed.jpg" alt="dwellings_financed">
The small rise in owner-occupier lending April was driven by demand for establshed homes over new homes.
ABS recorded a 1% rise in loans for established home purchases.
Loans for the construction of new homes lifted just 0.2% while loans for the purchase of new dwellings fell 0.4%.
"Construction-related loan approvals - both loans for construction and for the purchase of newly built dwellings - have been even stronger over the last year and although approvals in this segment were also soft in April, through the year growth is robust at 17.9%," says Westpac.
In original terms, the number of first home buyer commitments as a percentage of total owner occupied housing finance commitments rose to 14.3% in April 2013 from 14.2% in March 2013.
"First-home buyers remain the stand out weakspot in the approvals data - we estimate loans to this segment were up 0.7% (seasonally adjusted) in April but are still down 10.8% annually and at very low levels by historical standards, particularly in NSW and Queensland," says Westpac.
Between April 2013 and March 2013, the average loan size for first home buyers fell $2,000 to $289,200. The average loan size for all owner occupied housing commitments rose $700 to $301,800 for the same period.
Owner occupied housing commitments trended up strongest in NSW  (up 279, 2.1%), Western Australia (up 130, 1.8%), Queensland (up 71, 0.8%), Victoria (up 71, 0.6%), South Australia (up 64, 2.0%), the Australian Capital Territory (up 15, 2.0%) and Tasmania (up 1, 0.1%), while a fall was recorded in the Northern Territory (down 10, 2.7%).
The seasonally adjusted estimates rose in South Australia (up 238, 7.6%), Western Australia (up 219, 3.0%), New South Wales (up 209, 1.5%), Queensland (up 116, 1.3%) and Tasmania (up 5, 0.7%), while falls were recorded in Victoria (down 579, 4.4%), the Australian Capital Territory (down 19, 2.5%) and the Northern Territory (down 3, 1.0%). 
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Mortgage lending limps to 0.8% rise in April as FHBs remain on sidelines: ABS

<html><body>
Somewhere deep in the ethics-free zone that is newspaper reporting they’ve come up with the wackiest notion yet: Western Australia is in recession.
It’s nothing of the sort, but in print media few give a damn.
Here’s how it works in metropolitan newspapers. Someone with a public profile makes a speech. A reporter lifts a single sentence from the speech, takes it out of context, puts an outrageous spin on it and turns it into the screaming negative that will make tomorrow’s front page lead. Other newspapers will pick up the story and repeat it as fact. Within 24 hours it has become an undeniable truth, repeated as such around the nation.
That’s how the notion of a real estate bubble got started in Australian several years ago. Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens made a speech. A Sydney journalist reported that Stevens said he was concerned about a real estate bubble. Most major outlets around the country picked up the story and repeated it as fact. It has been regarded as truth even since.
But Stevens never said it, nor anything remotely like it. It was more than a beat-up – it was a fabrication. I read a transcript of the speech and listened to an audio of the speech and the question-and-answer session that followed. The word “bubble” was never used. Nothing was said that could be construed as concern that Australian property prices were inflated. The RBA issued several media releases to correct the public record, but no one was interested.  
Last week something similar happened. Saul Eslake, a candidate for the national title of economic forecaster who gets it wrong most often, said this: “In WA it’s probably too early to say it is in recession but given the way unemployment is increasing it is very close.”  
Eslake’s rather startling leap from an alleged rise in jobless numbers to being on the brink of recession was based on erroneous numbers. He said WA’s jobless rate in April was 5.2% - but the ABS records a jobless rate of 4.9% in WA, well below the national average of 5.5%.  
Since when has a rise in unemployment been the marker for recession, anyway – but, no matter, the West Australian newspaper declared that the state already was in recession and it quickly became a national story. A fiddling of State Final Demand figures to create a negative impression added further to the beat-up.  
I’ve examined a range of economic indicators and they all show WA is the polar opposite of a state in recession. Out of nine indicators, it leads the nation on four, is second on another and third on the other four.  
Its population growth rate is 3.3%, well ahead of the 1.6% national average and easily the highest in the nation. Retail spending has risen 7.9% in annual terms, compared to the 3.1% national average and again the highest growth in the nation. Finance to home-buyers is up 10.8%, compared to just 1.6% nationally, and yet again No.1 among the state and territories.  
WA also leads in annual growth in gross state product, while annual growth in state final demand is a tick under 10%, three times the national average and second highest in the land.  
Building approvals are up 16.6%, double the national average, and growth in dwelling commencements is the third highest in Australia. There has been a 12.7% rise in loans to property investors, almost double the national average.
In Perth, residential rents have risen 20%-plus and prices are starting to follow, as increasing numbers of buyers compete for homes, some offering well above the asking price to beat off competitors.  
If this is recession, Australia is deep the toilet and the world is buggered.  
The federal Treasury was sufficiently disturbed by the bizarre media headlines to label the reports “hysteria”. Treasury chief economist David Gruen told a Senate hearing last week: “The idea that, in the face of the largest export boom we have ever seen, you ignore exports and focus on the price of the economy which is demand in WA and claim that that’s a recession, it belongs in the comic books, not in serious newspapers.
“We are in the midst of the biggest mining boom we have ever seen, a significant share of that is in WA - and they are exporting volumes of iron ore and increasingly liquefied natural gas at rates we have not seen before in our lifetimes.  
“Recessions have never been assessed on the basis of demand, they are assessed on the basis of output.”  
I’ve filed notions of a recession in WA in the same waste paper basket as claims that the resources boom is over. WA continues to be the national growth leader, challenged only by the Northern Territory, and Perth continues to have the nation’s second hottest city real estate market, bettered only by Darwin.  
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Despite media misinformation, Western Australia remains national growth leader: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
Retro kitchens are proving to be a hit with Queensland property hunters, with a 1950s home in Tarragindi being snappily sold recently for $534,000.
The home (pictured above) retains many original features including built-in cabinetry and high ceilings with decorative cornering, but the stand out room is the mint green kitchen. 
Situated on 607 square metres, the three-bedroom home was purchased in 1984 for $76,000.
<a href="https://www.remax.com.au/DisplayProperty.asp?guid=%7bA2F5BE43-0FFD-4CF0-B4BA-36DA4321E7B1%7d" target="_blank">Jerri Harrison-Taylor of Re/Max</a> says the property sold within a week of being listed and she was inundated with calls in the brief time it was on the market.
Not too far away in the suburb of Annerley is an original workers cottage with a blue and white tiled retro kitchen.
The Real Estate Insitute of Queensland's Nicola McDougall <a href="/news">has written on Property Observer today</a> about the appeal of retro kitchens to potential buyers.
Located on Prince Street, the home (pictured below) was built around the turn of the 20th Century and has an asking price of $450,000.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june11annerley]}
It sits on a 412-square-metre allotment and includes three bedrooms and one bathroom.
It is listed through <a href="https://www.reiq.com/House/for-sale/annerley/2504310.aspx" target="_blank">Chris Warren of Re/Max Colonial.</a>
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Queenland retro kitchens a hot option as 1950s Tarragindi house sells

<html><body>
RP Data's research for April shows a sharp fall in the amount of time Australian residential properties are spending on the market. This is reflective of stronger housing market conditions over the first quarter of the year.
This is a great result, but we need to question whether the current rapid pace of sales can be maintained.
Across most capital cities, the current average time on market is lower than at the same time last year.  In fact, the time on market is lower across each capital city except for Brisbane and Hobart.
Time on market for capital cities:
<ul>
<li>Sydney - 35 days</li>
<li>Melbourne - 38 days</li>
<li>Canberra - 49 days</li>
<li>Brisbane – 72 days</li>
<li>Adelaide – 68 days</li>
<li>Hobart  - 110 days</li>
<li>Darwin and Perth - 52 days </li>
</ul>
Although time on market is at quite low levels it will be interesting to see whether or not these levels can be maintained with lower levels of new stock coming on to the market and the recent successive monthly falls in capital city home values.
On the other hand, sales volumes have been improving from a very low base indicating that if vendors set appropriate prices on their homes, they should be able to attract buyers and sell the home in shorter period of time.
Across the country, the average time on market for all homes is currently recorded at 60 days and at the same time a year ago, the figure sat at a slightly higher 67 days.
The national average time on market for a house is currently 62 days compared to 68 days a year ago. For units it was 61 days a year ago compared to 51 days currently.
Based on the latest time on market results, average time on market was abnormally high over the previous three months.  This performance can be attributed to a spike is seasonal activity where in January, and to a lesser extent February, the housing market was interrupted by a larger proportion of buyers, sellers and facilitators such as real estate agents, conveyances and financiers being  on holidays during the period.
Taking seasonality into account, the surge in selling time was much higher than normal over the early months of 2013. RP Data didn’t see the average selling time fall by as much as normal in March.
It is difficult to decipher exactly what has happened during this period where we saw longer selling time trends occurring in-line with a sustained drop in total listings. Potentially it could be that stock sitting on the market for a long time started to shift.  Because the time on market figure is only calculated across those properties that sell over the month, a higher proportion of older stock selling will bias the results higher.
Across the combined capital cities, homes are currently taking an average of 50 days to sell compared to 60 days at the same time a year ago.  Over the previous three months, the time on market was significantly higher; however, the figure has now returned to similar levels as those in November 2012 (49 days).
Capital city houses are currently taking an average of 53 days to sell and units 44 days compared to 61 days and 56 days respectively a year ago.  Similar to the national results, there was an unusually high average time on market for the first three months of the year.
Looking further into the relationship between the six months change in capital city home values, and the average days on market for capital city homes, we found that when values are rising, the number of days it takes to sell a home is inherently lower.
On the other hand, when values are falling or growth is more moderate, the time on market tends to be higher.  Of course this is a logical relationship but it is interesting to note that the change in direction of value movements actually tends to slightly precede the change in the number of days in market. This is indicative of the slight delay in the market catching up to the prevalent market conditions.
Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
Note: The time on market figure measures the average difference between the date at which a property is first listed for sale and the contract date.  It is important to note that this metric is only measured across private treaty sales, i.e. it does not include auctions.  When the time on market figure is low it indicates that buyers and sellers are agreeing on a sale price relatively quickly and vice versa.
 
</body></html>

ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Faster house sales reflect stronger market conditions over first quarter of 2013: Cameron Kusher

<html><body>
The weekend of June 1 saw the start of winter auctions for 2013.
A running joke in the industry is that if you’re a buyer intending to bid on a weekend auction - pray that it rains!
We at Secret Agent wanted to ask ourselves a very simple question. Could rain affect auction prices?
Would it have a detrimental effect on property pricing?
Our initial thoughts were that it wouldn’t impact results. If a buyer was set to bid on a property, the weather wouldn’t impact the way a serious purchaser would peruse it.
However, we started following some interesting research on the correlation of stock market performance and the weather, and this started our quest to establish if in fact the Melbourne property market was influenced by the weather.
The research mentioned was prepared by the University of Berkeley, and compared the DowJones Industrials and weather patterns from 1948 - 2010.
The market recorded an average reduction of 2.8% on cloudy days over that time period (62 years of data).
We looked at the winter months when an auction occurred on a wet day (i.e. more than 4mm of rain) and there was an average price difference of of 5% less as opposed to auctions that took place on a dry day with less than 4mm of rain.
This finding was compiled with 2012 Melbourne sales results that occurred on a Saturday (i.e. at auction) between June and August 2012.
<ul>
<li>Average auction result with less than 4mm of rain, $1,003,300</li>
<li>Average auction result with 4mm or more of rain, $956,800</li>
</ul>
The lower 5% difference could be expected for property owners auctioning on a rainy day!
The one saving grace to this situation is that some correlations over the past decade show that prices on a whole are stronger in winter than those at other points in the year.
The reason for this is the scarcity of stock in winter. A vendor could be wise to sell in winter, but only on a dry day!
Paul Osborne is managing director of buyers' advocate <a href="https://secretagent.com.au/" target="_blank">Secret Agent</a>.
</body></html>

posborne-ie3DgwEcSy

Wet winter days can impact auction results: Paul Osborne

<html><body>
We’ve long been told that when it comes to selling your home, less is in fact more. That is, your fascination with the colour orange may help you feel all warm and fuzzy every time you open the front door but is probably not everyone’s idea of schmick interior design.
Personally I love orange, and red, and any other bright colour that screams look at me, look at me. I have also, as yet, not attempted to sell said property so the proof may well be in the pudding or hopefully any future would-be buyer will also be a tad colour-blind.
A number of news stories of late, however, appear to show that the tide is turning, and <a target="_blank" href="/news">what is old is actually becoming new and fashionable again</a>.
A movement which appears to me to be in-line with the current fascination of all things 50s, including beatnik fashion, is the increasing popularity of original properties from times gone by – sans renovation. Indeed, it appears the more original the better.
And according to a recent story about a property in <a href="https://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/national/real-estate-agents-reporting-strong-interest-in-homes-with-original-features/story-fnii5v70-1226650491793" target="_blank">Brisbane,</a> demand for retro properties is definitely on the rise.
Jerri Harrison-Taylor, from RE/MAX Executives in Coorparoo, said she had been swamped with phone calls since the latest retro offering – a brick cavity house in Tarragindi – was listed. It sold in a week.
And one of the potential buyers said it was the “awesome” white-and-mint green kitchen that was one its main selling features. I completely agree.
I must admit I have long desired a property with black and white tiled floors and a claw bath and a servant for that matter.
My current abode has fabulous original parquetry floors which, just like the colour orange, make me smile every time I get home from work. Who knew that flooring could make you so damn happy? Or perhaps I am a little odd or just easily pleased.
I’ve always thought that part of the beauty of the Brisbane property market is its abundance of homes from yesteryear, especially within the inner-city precinct. And a new property listing on <a href="https://www.reiq.com/House/for-sale/annerley/2504310.aspx" target="_blank">reiq.com </a>for a home in Annerley certainly ticks all of the boxes of retro-cool. In fact, the kitchen goes even one better than I could possibly imagine and has blue-and-white tiled floors, complete with a very fetching red-trim.
Perhaps this renewed fascination with our architectural history has something to do with the current fast-pace of modern life or maybe it’s recognition of the superb workmanship that was part and parcel of homes of a particular bygone era.
Either way I believe your home should reflect your personality and what makes you smile – regardless of supposedly acceptable notions of contemporary colour palates. I reckon you worry about its saleability much later when, and a very big if, you ever decide to sell.
Nicola McDougall is the <a href="https://reiqblog.com/" target="_blank">REIQ</a>’s executive manager of corporate affairs.
</body></html>

nmcdougall-hv3JvhUJmd

Your home should reflect your personality: Nicola McDougall

<html><body>
The Reserve Bank board must harbour some small concern that despite record low interest rates, Australia’s economy is not responding quickly.
It is not creating the a sharp turn-around in consumer or business confidence.
In fact, in the face of rates being cut to record lows, Australian consumer confidence fell.
That said, it was measured just after the federal budget, and there weren’t many smiles in that.
Yes, I understand that auction clearance rates in Sydney have topped 80% in the past couple of weekends. I know that Melbourne is showing signs of recovery. But Queensland’s ongoing malaise, caused by a massive fall in coal prices and the property market continuing to lie flat on its back gives cause for concern.
Again, what happens if you cut rates but nothing (or not enough) happens? The dollar’s fall will do more to stimulate Australia’s economy – especially the rural and the manufacturing sector.
Yet though the government will consistently blame the dollar for all the recent travails in the economy, it will not face up to the fact that the horse has bolted.
Manufacturers have left the country and those that haven’t already are heading there as quickly as possible. And this is where the government has been too slow to respond. This is where the sliver of a majority has worked against the Australian people and the Australian economy.
If we had our time over again, the better solution would have been for Australia to go back to the polls in 2010 to get a decisive majority for either political party.
In the past three years – despite hectic legislation – it is hard to conclude that Australia has done anything other than wallow.
Gross National Expenditure is running around 1%, which shows it is the import/export side of the equation that is still holding up growth. That said, as Treasury Secretary Martin Parkinson said this week, there is some stupidity in looking at the numbers. To suggest that WA is in recession was just plain dumb.
The problem is that WA – like Australia – is a big place and what households are feeling in Perth is vastly different from Port Hedland or Paraburdoo. What Australia needs - and I think the public is up for it – is big fundamental change: to the tax system, state and federal relations and to the way social welfare is paid.
I understand in saying this that the white noise will be immense as individual groups win or lose from such changes. But for Australia’s productive future, change has to occur.
The nation has to be able to pay its way. But even more, if must give incentive to those prepared to take risks, in order to create more wealth in the future.
The feeling I get right now – from all parts of Australia – is that the nation has squandered the mining boom.
And now that its best days appear to be behind us, the big question is whether Australia can make hard decisions to better profit from its tail. And that does not mean handouts, it means acknowledging the concept of being paid for a hard-day's work and not being taxed too heavily for the privilege.
<a href="https://www.rossgreenwood.com.au/" target="_blank">Ross Greenwood</a>  is the finance reporter for Today presenting his “Money Minute”segment daily at 6.50 and 7.50am and Nine News and presents Money News nightly on 2GB. He has been the editor of numerous business publications, including Personal Investor between 1986 and 1997.
</body></html>

Latest Expert Insights

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

Guides

Editor's Picks

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Expert Insights

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

Guides

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News