<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]

Joel Robinson

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

Lender, fund manager and apartment developer Princeton has completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, the first new apartment development in South Sydney to provide its owners with a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, the most comprehensive insurance available for a new apartment building.

The policy has been a key consideration for prospective purchasers of the 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, strategically located between&nbsp;Rockdale Plaza and Rockdale Station.&nbsp;

Buyers have also been drawn to the fact that it is one of few new apartment developments delivered in the suburb in the last 10 years, and the only one located on Princes Highway to be set well back from the street to reduce noise. There's also a communal rooftop, a rarity in the suburb, complete barbecue facilities, landscaped seating areas, a children's play zone and herb gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374084]

Ray White Projects’ Matt Otway said buyer enquiry reflected the increasingly diverse and cosmopolitan population that has made Rockdale home.

“We’re seeing strong interest from a broad mix of buyers, including young professionals and people who have rented in Rockdale and the surrounding suburbs and now see Marque as an opportunity to buy a brand-new apartment in an area they already know,” Otway said.

“Proximity to the CBD and Sydney Airport is another key advantage particularly for buyers working in these locations who want the added convenience of living close by.”

Investors have also been attracted to the project, with rental yields of more than five per cent, which is considered a strong result for the Sydney market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374090]

Adding another layer to the buyer proposition is Marque's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance, making it the only new apartment development in Rockdale to offer the cover.

The policy protects apartment owners against major structural and waterproofing defects for 10 years following completion, giving Marque purchasers cover until early 2036 at no additional cost.

The likelihood of defects emerging has also been mitigated through the Technical Inspection Service (TIS), which saw independent experts inspect the building at various stages throughout construction to identify potential issues during the build, rather than after the fact.

SDSS, which provided the TIS, consistently ranked the construction quality at Marque, undertaken by iCIRT-rated builder Coplex, among the best across its extensive portfolio of projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374088]

Otway said the LDI had become a major drawcard for buyers, particularly given Rockdale has seen relatively little new apartment development over the past decade.

"Rockdale hasn't had a lot of new apartment buildings in the last decade, and has never had a project with 10-year defect insurance," Otway said.

"Marque presents a truly rare opportunity at an affordable price point, so well connected to the Sydney CBD."

One-bedroom apartments at Marque start from $735,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Marque Rockdale completes as South Sydney’s first apartments backed by 10-year defect insurance

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/odus">ODUS Property Group</a> is continuing to expand its local Gold Coast development pipeline, filing plans for a new 40-storey tower in the Southport CBD.

Odus, which bought two luxury Main Beach projects, now La Mer and Le Reve, to make its move into the booming Gold Coast apartment market, has secured its third site. But it is tweaking the plans for a previously proposed 50-storey skyscraper, now seeking to deliver 40 storeys.

The project, dubbed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/80-marine-parade-74-80-marine-parade-southport-qld-4215">80 Marine Parade</a>, sits on a prime&nbsp;2,032 sqm amalgamated corner site at 74–80 Marine Parade and 4 Welch Street, across the road from the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre. It will have unobstructed, never-to-be-built-out views to the east given its position opposite the Broadbwater Parklands.&nbsp;

The plans are for 316 apartments, ground-floor retail, and resort-style resident amenities. The project sits within Precinct 1 (Central Business District) of the Southport Priority Development Area, where high-density residential and commercial development is actively encouraged.

BGD, ran by Bayden Goddard and the architecture firm behind Le Reve, has revised the original concept plans, substantially reworking the built form. Basement parking has been replaced by an expanded podium designed to improve functionality while reducing the tower's overall visual impact.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f13d065-2cf5-45ec-aa17-1a03754d93d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da%202.png?VersionId=.9QS2n7kBc_U3PyaI247uOyNSXIqnXSE" />

The tower rises above the eight-storey landscaped podium with a distinctive architectural language defined by sweeping arches, integrated greenery, bronze-toned glazing, and a sculptural rooftop crown.

The development will comprise 104 one-bedroom apartments, 208 two-bedroom apartments, and four four-bedroom penthouses across levels 9 to 36. Apartments are designed to accommodate both permanent residents and short-term accommodation within the same building.

A double-height lobby and reception will anchor the ground floor alongside a 23 sqm food and drink outlet, activating the Marine Parade frontage.

Parking will be accommodated within the podium, providing 288 vehicle spaces and 74 bicycle spaces, accessed from Welch Street.

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7528b91-2c47-4094-98b3-5eecbacc0041" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=efF5oWs4T9PDvxJwJEDHu5kSQ5eE3IBy" />

Residents will have access to an extensive suite of amenities spread across multiple levels. A podium recreation deck will include a swimming pool, spas, sauna, steam room, cinema, residents' lounge and children's games room, while a second wellness level near the top of the building will feature a gym, co-working spaces, reading room, dining areas and communal kitchen. Extensive podium landscaping wraps the building to soften the built form and strengthen its interface with the surrounding streetscape.

The planning report notes the project responds directly to Southport's ongoing urban transformation.

"Consistent with much of Southport, the surrounding area is undergoing significant transition, with many older low-rise developments progressively being redeveloped for higher-intensity urban outcomes, as envisaged within Precinct 1."

It also states that the proposal "will contribute to a defined and legible eastern gateway to the Southport CBD, reinforcing the area's high-density urban character while maintaining a strong visual connection to the adjoining public open space network."

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b9fdebd-4b35-400b-a287-6bd1cdbcdb1b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da.png?VersionId=4LG35XR5mfir7jvG2TShtQx.utMLYBxu" />

Located opposite the Broadwater Parklands, the site enjoys immediate access to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Australia Fair Shopping Centre, TAFE Queensland Southport campus, the G:link light rail corridor and Southport's established commercial precinct. The location places future residents within one of the Gold Coast's fastest-evolving mixed-use centres, where numerous high-rise residential projects are reshaping the CBD skyline.

Odus is headed by development professionals Byron Sakha, Jarrod Younan and Sebastian Younan. The Younans also head family-owned builder Nazero Constructions, established in the 1960s.

They are currently delivering La Mer, 24 luxury apartments on Main Beach Parade, and Le&nbsp;Rêve, on the same street but on the prized beachfront side of the sought-after strip.

ODUS plans landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway

A boutique collection of just 10 residences could become the catalyst for the next phase of renewal along the southern end of Surfers Paradise Boulevard, with new plans laid for a mixed-use tower designed to transform a long-vacant site.

The proposal for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/3098-surfers-paradise-boulevard-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">3098 Surfers Paradise Boulevard</a> has been conceived as more than a standalone residential project. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the development aims to spark the revitalisation of what the design team describes as the "South Boulevard" precinct, creating an active streetscape with retail uses at ground level beneath a collection of full-floor luxury residences.

The application, by PR Property Holdings, an entity directed by the Brisbane-based Ryan and Petrovic families, seeks approval for a 17-storey, 62.2-metre mixed-use development on a compact 427 sqm site between Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Appel Street.

The project will comprise just 10 apartments, including eight full-floor residences and two duplex apartments, positioned above a two-level retail podium. Three podium parking levels will accommodate 26 vehicle spaces, while a recreation deck is proposed on Level 4.

<img alt="First look: PR Property Holdings plans boutique apartment tower to kickstart Surfers Paradise's 'South Boulevard' revival" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46cfa37d-5051-4449-8d8e-6724f8ca0d59" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_8.png?VersionId=e7UkeV1eTZAC2lXhdq72E3jpUbwiFD2t" />

Rather than pursuing apartment volume, the proposal focuses on large-format homes with a slender tower form intended to maximise outlooks while limiting visual bulk.

BDA Architecture said the proposal has been designed to become an urban renewal catalyst for the precinct.

"The ambition of 3098 Surfer's Paradise is that it provides the catalyst for incremental infill redevelopment and upgrade of what is coined the 'South Boulevarde' of Surfers Paradise which connects to the beating heart of Cavill Avenue."

The architects added: "An incremental approach to development that provides quality ground plane interface, human scale design, integrated subtropical landscape and semipublic permeable frontage can over time entirely upgrade a precinct."

The architecture adopts soft curves, articulated balconies and a slender tower profile rising from a human-scaled podium. The design report describes the project as delivering "bespoke residences of enduring distinction, sculpted with precision and quiet sophistication," with a focus on timeless coastal architecture.

The application also includes retail tenancies addressing Surfers Paradise Boulevard, reinforcing the site's role as an active mixed-use destination rather than a purely residential address. The planning report states the combination of the podium, landscaping and active frontage is intended to strengthen the pedestrian experience while contributing to the evolving character of the boulevard.

The site occupies a prominent position in the southern section of Surfers Paradise, directly opposite the G:link light rail corridor and within walking distance of Surfers Paradise Beach, Cavill Avenue, the Nerang River and Bruce Bishop Car Park. It is currently vacant, having previously accommodated a single-storey commercial building that was demolished in 2022. The planning report notes the surrounding area is characterised by a mix of commercial buildings and residential towers, with unlimited building height provisions applying under the Centre Zone.

The proposal also replaces an earlier 2022 approval for a restaurant and bar on the site, instead introducing a permanent mixed-use development that combines retail activation with boutique residential living.

Boutique apartment tower to "kickstart" Surfers Paradise's 'South Boulevard' revival

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>
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/melbourneunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="159" alt="melbourneunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Melbourne, according to <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/adelaideunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="162" alt="adelaideunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Adelaide, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/hobartunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="158" alt="hobartunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Hobart, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/sydneyunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="172" alt="sydneyunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Sydney, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/perthunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="158" alt="perthunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Perth, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/brisbaneunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="165" alt="brisbaneunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Brisbane, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/canberraunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="167" alt="canberraunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Canberra, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/darwinunitsmay1.jpg" width="400" height="139" alt="darwinunitsmay1">
The median gross rental yield landlords are securing for units in Darwin, according to <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">RP Data.</a> The median gross rental yield across Australia's eight capital cities was 4.9% for the month ending April 30, 2013.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Melbourne units deliver lowest rental yields: RP Data capital cities analysis

<html><body>
Hawthorn Green is the latest stage to be released in the Forest Ridge housing estate, 16 kilometres east of the Melbourne CBD.
After the successful sellout of the first three stages in the <a href="/news">Forest Hill</a> suburb, developer Excen has released 14 house and land packages in the Hawthorn Green stage.
Located on Elmington Avenue, the estate will be made up of four styles of home, which are all two-storey.
The Catherine style (pictured below) features three bedrooms, all located upstairs.
<img alt="catherine" src="/images/stories/2013/04/catherine.jpg" width="400" height="245">
The Juliette, Chloe and Carolina styles (pictured below) all feature four bedrooms.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/04/april19hawthorngreen]}
The homes are architecturally designed by dKO architects, with interior design by Libby Thornton and landscaped by Paul Hamilton Landscape.
The homes will feature exposed timbers, angled roofs, blade walls and decorative stonework, with inspiration evidently drawn from American architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s work.
<img alt="hawthorngreenapril19two" src="/images/stories/2013/04/hawthorngreenapril19two.jpg" width="470" height="260">
“Our homes and mature landscaping signify a new standard for Melbourne’s south-east and would not look out of place gracing the finest streets of Hawthorn or Kew,” says sales manager of Forest Ridge, Bonnie Formosa.
“The population of Forest Hill is growing rapidly with a younger and more family-centre focus which is perfect for the style of high quality, yet great value-for-money homes we are offering.”
Prices for home-and-land packages range in price from $988,000 to $1.095 million.
The homes range in size from 200 square metres to 250 square metres and the blocks range in size from 220 square metres to 380 square metres.
<img alt="hawthorngreenapril19one" src="/images/stories/2013/04/hawthorngreenapril19one.jpg" width="470" height="313">
Formosa says the homes have been designed to ensure the kitchen is the focal point.
“It is positioned to allow family and friends to congregate, reflecting today’s casual approach to entertaining, whilst ensuring the person who is preparing a meal feels connected to the living spaces,” says Formosa.
The kitchens feature a stone island bench and European stainless steel appliances.
<a href="https://www.forestridge3131.com.au/index" target="_blank">Buyers of the 14 terrace homes </a>will be required to pay a 10% deposit to secure their purchase.
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Hawthorn Green homes the newest addition to Forest Hill

<html><body>
Good grief. Another state government, for want of an original idea, has decided to pursue the same first-home buyer strategy that has failed elsewhere.  
Victoria's political leaders, whose only motivation in government appears to be appeasing friends and donors in the development industry, has announced a small grant for first-home buyers, but only those opting for a newly constructed dwelling.  
Victoria is following the lead of Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia and Tasmania, but is being less generous than most of the those states.  
The problem is, the (more generous) schemes in other states aren't working. Queensland, faced with a poor response to its handout for first home builders, recently had a stroke a genius and re-launched the same scheme with a new name.  
Victoria's Treasurer Michael O'Brien seems to think his version, despite being less benevolent than the ones that have failed in other states, will kick start a building boom.  
O'Brien, in describing the "benefits" of this policy fart, has inadvertently explained why it won't work. He says the combination of the grant and the stamp duty concessions will mean a $16,500 boost for first timers building the average new house, which costs around $400,000 in Melbourne.  
The key factor is the $400,000. There are lots of places around Melbourne where young buyers can find existing a houses and apartments for considerably less than that. In many cases, for $100,000 less.  
As the REIV points out, in criticising the government decision to restrict the benefits to buyers of newly constructed homes, most first timers buy existing homes. They're a lot cheaper and often better located. Across Australia, 85% of first-home buyers opt for established dwellings.  
If state governments want to help young Australians seeking a first home, why are they assisting only 15% of them?  
The answer: there's no benefit to the developers who are a prime source of donations to the major political parties and who have way too much influence on the decisions of the Victorian state government.  
Another valid question: if you really want to stimulate the building industry, why only first home buyers? They're a tiny portion of the market and handouts to an insignificant minority  will not create a construction revolution.  
To have a meaningful impact, grants need to be a lot larger than $10,000 and they need to be extended beyond first time buyers. And rather than a stamp duty concession, the tax needs to be eliminated altogether. That was supposed to happen with the introduction of the GST.  
But even then, at best, the only outcome would be a small short-term distortion of the market. Grants are not, and have never been, the answer.  
Politicians continue to tinker at the fringes of the real estate industry. Some think they can solve the affordability problem by releasing more land. Other think small handouts to young buyers will make a difference. Others believe removing tax breaks for investors is the answer.  
None is willing to face the real issue: the impact of taxes and charges at all levels of government on the cost of housing.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">hotspotting.com.au</a>
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Victoria's new FHB strategy follows in the footsteps of other states' failed efforts: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
We got a letter recently from a woman who wanted to engage us to buy a family home, but whose husband was sceptical about whether it would be worthwhile.
“My husband says I am crazy to think about engaging a James Buyer Advocate when all deals are about is 'he who has the most money wins',” she wrote.
The idea that whoever has the most money always wins the deal is a common line of thinking – but it’s not actually true.
Over the last five buying weeks in a very competitive market in early 2013, we have bought 90% of the 22 homes we have gone after at auction and private sale and expressions of interest, the large majority of which have been over $2 million.
That figure should be balanced with the fact we have pursued less than 5% of the more than 300 homes we have assessed – which is the time to say no to price. So these were properties we and our clients were confident were worth the price we felt they were going to achieve.
But in each of these negotiations there were others who were also prepared to pay around that price.
So – are we just lucky that we were hired by the people who had the most money on almost every home?
No. The truth is that most buyers have around the same resources when they go after a home. Most people looking at $3 million homes have got around $3 million to spend, and most $5 million homes have $5 million buyers looking at them and so on.
So if buyers for a particular home are generally prepared to commit around the same resources, then the argument that the one with the most money always wins doesn’t quite hold water.
In fact, in our experience in buying over 1000 family homes, how much money you have is around number 7 in terms of what determines whether you get to buy the home you really want.
Here are the others:
No. 1 – Relationships
Successful deals depend on your relationships with the agents you are dealing with – how long you have known them, whether they “own” you or whether you are “owned’ by another agent, and whether you have a house to sell yourself.  Many of our relationships with agents are good, solid, professional ones that are into their second decade. You as a buyer may struggle to make up the ground against a competent advocate or a more qualified buyer with one or two open for inspections, a phone call and an email or two – no matter how smooth or smart you are. Off-market sales are further evidence of the need for good relationships.
No 2 – Preparation
What do others think the home is really worth i.e. other agents, the vendor, and the market? Who is your real competition? What are the issues connected to this home – our favourite catch cry is “no surprises in negotiations”. Buying a home is all about doing the preparation. Not to mention legal, council, architectural and building inspections and so on.
No 3 – Understanding Processes
Rarely does anything run entirely to a plan. You need to be able to second-guess what may happen in a<a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with negotiation" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/negotiation-2/">negotiation</a>. If you don’t know how the other side works then you won’t know when to zig and when to zag in that very real game that is “dealing with agents”. The number of buyers who think buying a home in <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with Top End" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/top-end/">Top End</a>Melbourne is the same as buying at a lower price range or in a different area is surprising. Normally it takes those buyers a few misses before they get an idea of how things really work. At the <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with Top End" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/top-end/">Top End</a> when good stock is tight this can mean years of searching, or worse – missing out on what you really want.
No 4 – <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with Clarity" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/clarity/">Clarity</a> of Purpose
When the going gets tough you need have the mindset to get going – especially on the good homes in <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with inner melbourne" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/inner-melbourne/">Inner Melbourne</a>. You need to have a clear focus on your desired outcome. Determination will win out over money any day – it’s the same in <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with inner melbourne" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/inner-melbourne/">inner Melbourne</a> home buying as it is in life. And for many, Clarity can only come with assistance and guidelines.
No 5 – Strategy
In a number of deals we had exactly the same resources as the other side. Sometimes they were also represented by advocates, but their strategies resulted in missing out on the purchase – especially when it came to situations like boardroom auctions. We have been successful in the last dozen or so boardroom auctions, ranging in amounts from $2m to over $10m. Why is that? It can’t be money alone, given that we have faced more than 30+ opponents during that time. Our clients can’t have had more money than all of them. It’s the same with Expressions of Interest. If you enter an EOI negotiation thinking it’s just a matter of opening your chequebook that is naivety in the extreme. And if you think that strategy at auction is irrelevant – let’s be clear: having bought hundreds of homes at auctions, I can tell you absolutely that that is a false statement.
No 6 – Will and <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with nerve" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/nerve/">Nerve</a>
Many people could make the putt Adam Scott made to win the Masters – but how many would have known how to get there and hold their nerve on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, on that specific green and at that specific time, when there was no second chance?  In home-buying, there may be another, but the fight will still be as hard and the prize won’t be the same.
Our clients hold their nerve – they do so through clarity and through natural inner strength. This happened in two recent high profile boardroom auctions, and at an auction in <a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with Albert Park" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/albert-park/">Albert Park</a> last Saturday when our clients held their nerve at $4.3 million in front of nearly 300 people with three bidders over $4 million proving the true market<a style="border: 0px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; color: #000000;" title="Posts tagged with value" rel="tag" class="st_tag internal_tag" href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/value/">value</a> against the quote of $3 million.  Experience in these situations is worth more than money.
No 7 – Money
How much money you have is important. And yes if you’re prepared to spend $5m on a $3m home then you will often buy it – but the chances are you won’t keep that $5m for long if you make too many decisions like that.
Mal James is principal of<a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.jamesbuyeradvocates.com.au/" title="James Buyer Advocates"> James Buyer Advocates</a>, which advocates on behalf of buyers of property over $1 million. Mal writes weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis on James' website.
</body></html>

maljames-vHwm28JUAa

The buyer with the most money doesn't always win: Mal James

<html><body>
Japanese retailing giant Daiso, having recently opened a new store in the Myer Centre in Brisbane, has leased 1,800 square metres of office space at Level 1, 2 Elizabeth Street, across from Flinders Street station for a new store.
The gift and homewares retailer, promising "everyday life solutions for one price of $2.80" and which has 3,200 shops in 25 countries, will convert office space to first floor retail with escalators from Flinders Street providing access to the store.
The rent has not been disclosed but Daiso will pay more than $200 per square metre over office rents.
The building, recently vacated by long-standing tenant the Commonwealth Bank is known as "Riverview House" and is owned by Fivex Commercial Property, which plans to redevelop it.
According to Fivex spokesperson Joshua Berger, Melbourne City Council plans to convert the Elizabeth Street block from Flinders Lane to Flinders Street to a pedestrian mall.
The planned conversion from office to retail comes as BIS Shrapnel forecasts the office vacancy rate in Melbourne to reach 10% by the end of the year, which could see other office landlords consider a similar strategy, if space remains vacant.
The lease was negotiated by Michael Di Carlo and Jeremy Marmur from Savills alongside Ben Tremellen, Colliers International retail leasing manager and , Tim Boyce, Daiso property executive, who said the owner has added significantly to the income and capital value of the property by undertaking the conversion.
"Traditionally, retailers have had a strong preference for ground floor shop fronts, but as vacancy across the Melbourne CBD remains tight I believe we will see an increase in what we call vertical retailing, particularly with big box international retailers,” said Tremellen. 
“At Colliers International, we are working with numerous landlords to activate multiple levels for retail use. This new Daiso store will be one of the largest Level 1 retail offerings in the Melbourne CBD when it opens later this year.
Daiso launched in Australia in 2010 with a store in Abbotsford and also has stores at Westfield Doncaster, Highpoint Shopping Centre and on Bourke Street in the Melbourne CBD.
Daiso’s Australian CEO, Kit Cheong – a former senior executive at the Coles Group and Pacific Brands – says there are plans for up to another dozen stores to open this calendar year along the east coast.
It sells everything from potholders to pencils, lollies and locks.
It has 2,500 stores in Japan with 500 in 25 countries.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Japanese retailer Daiso to convert Elizabeth Street office space into shop after recent Brisbane opening

<html><body>
Six shop premises in the maritime heritage Melbourne suburb of Williamstown have been listed for sale and may appeal to self-managed super fund (SMSF) property investors.
The shops stand at the corner of Stevedore Street and Douglas Parade in the heart of the Williamstown shopping precinct on the former site of the Burke &amp; Co Pty Ltd department store, which operated from 1926 until 2008.
Five out of the six shops are tenanted with one currently vacant and bring in annual rent of between $50,000 and $127,000. All leases contain relocation and redevelopment clauses.
They are being offered separately or as a whole with price expectations in excess of $7.5 million for all six.
Located at 66 Douglas Parade, <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/2010370396/for-sale/vic/williamstown/retail" target="_blank">the six shops are</a>:
-          Lot 1 – Shop 1, leased to  Jas Stephens – 108 sqm, income of $86 ,614 plus GST
-          Lot 2 – Shop 2 – vacant – 106sqm
-          Lot 3 – Shop 3, leased to Hollywood Nails – 105sqm - income of $86,851 plus GST
-          Lot 4 – Shop 4, leased to Pressto – 87sqm - income of $64,258 plus GST
-          Lot S2 – Shop 5, leased to The Freedom Machine – 175sqm - income of $127,339 plus GST
-          Lot S2 – Shop 6, leased to  Lulu Katon – 69sqm - income of $50,000 plus GST
They are being sold via an expressions of interest campaign that closes on May 9 led by Fitzroys associate James Gregson
“The properties also offer significant multi-level development potential and strong future growth potential,” he said.
They are Zoned Business 1, but Gregson says they could be suited to alternative uses subject to council development approval.
Current projects in Williamstown include the development of the woollen mills on Nelson Place, comprising a number of residential towers up to twelve levels will add an additional 5,000 residents to the immediate vicinity once completed.
Recent retail property sales in Williamstown include a 225 square metre shopped tenanted by BWS Liquor until 2015, which sold for $1.7 million in May last year, a yield of around 7%.
</body></html>

Six Williamstown shops listed on ‘Burke’s Corner’ and may appeal to SMSF investors

<html><body>
Australia’s 1.76 million landlords claimed a total of $38.6 billion in tax deduction in the 2010-11 tax year, the latest ATO statistics show.
This equates to an average tax deduction of $23,000 per landlord.
The aggregate figure was an 18% increase on the $32.8 billion in tax deductions claimed in the 2009-10 year, where 1.7 million landlords claimed an average deduction of $19,000.
Deductions for interest paid on home loans was the greatest tax deduction claim rising from $18.4 billion in 2009-10 to $22.7 billion in 2010-11.
According to accountants DBA, landlords can claim interest on borrowings if the property was acquired for the purpose of producing assessable income, including interest paid in advance.
Landlords are also entitled to claim deductions for repairs and maintenance of their investment property, though not for capital expenses like alterations or additions.
The ATO figures show a small rise in capital works deductions from $1.7 billion to $1.9 billion.
Other rental deductions rose from $12.8 billion to $14 billion.
Other allowable rental deductions include borrowing expenses including legal costs, bank account costs, accountants and property consultant fees, insurance, property management costs, local council rates, water rates and usage, land tax, advertising for tenants and depreciation.
Around two-thirds of property investors have <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/landlords/two-thirds-of-property-investments-negatively-geared-ato-figures/2013043060891?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news" target="_blank">negatively-geared property investments</a>, the ATO figures also show.
</body></html>

Landlords tax deductions rise to $38.6 billion or $23,000 per tax return: ATO figures

<html><body>
American bulk-goods chain Costco has received the green light to go ahead with the opening of its first Queensland store, as the company prepares for further <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/054635-costco-confirms-australian-expansion-as-big-box-retail-continues-to-thrive-2">expansion around Australia</a>.

The Queensland government yesterday approved the multi-million dollar Costco development at North Lakes, despite resistance from shopping centre rival Westfield.
The decision follows a report commissioned by the state government into the retailer.
The Australian reported this morning the report by consultancy Foresight Partners found only 40% of Costco’s range was carried by major supermarkets and even less by smaller convenience stores, indicating it would not threaten the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/an-independent-report-has-supported-the-expansion-of-retail-giant-costco-into-queensland/story-e6frg6n6-1226631879906" rel="nofollow">existence of small grocers</a>.
Foresight Partners was contacted for comment this morning, but no reply was received prior to publication.
Costco Australia managing director Patrick Noone said the construction of the centre would create about 350 local retail jobs and 160 construction jobs.
“Costco will bring a new element of competition and retail to the market. We’re also a trade player, so we’ll bring a new level of competition for small business and restaurants too,” Noone says.
Queensland deputy premier and minister for state development Jeff Seeney signed off on the development and said in a statement he’d considered the proposal carefully.
“I did not rush this decision, and I took the time necessary to make sure I was making the right decision for the community and the state.”
“The development will provide new business opportunities in the north Brisbane-Moreton Bay regions and contribute to growing and stimulating the construction industry,” he says.
Seeney said he believes Costco will be good for Queensland.
“I formed the view that this development contributes to the future economic well-being of Queensland, in particular the fast growing south-east region,” he says.
“We need to ensure that applications such as this do not get bogged down in protracted legal proceedings.”
Noone says while development is a bonus for Queensland shoppers, he understands Westfield’s opposition to the store opening.
“Everyone has a right to question the planning laws, it’s just something we work through with the local authorities, and it’s part of the democratic process which we’re happy to be a part of,” he says.
Chief executive of the Retail Doctor Group Brian Walker said Australian consumers have been very supportive of Costco’s arrival.
“Costco perform extremely well in our country. The Melbourne store was one of the best openings in its history worldwide. They’re really the next generation of supermarket. We can expect 15-20 stores in the next five years,” he says.
Walker says current economic conditions have influenced Australians appetite for Costco, especially as it operates on a membership-fee basis.
“A cautious consumer is focused on value. Consumers are currently migrating to Costco and what they do well is there is including an element of the surprise, a super bargain.”
Costco first opened in Australia in 2009 with its Melbourne store. Later this year stores are also opening in the Melbourne suburb of Ringwood and another in Sydney.
Noone says the discount grocer is also looking to open a store in Adelaide.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
</body></html>

yredrup-o4Anfe78KF

US bulk-goods chain Costco plans to open in Queensland next year

<html><body>
New Zealand merino wool adventure-wear brand Icebreaker opened its first Australian store last night in Melbourne’s Chadstone shopping centre.
While it’s the first Australian store for the brand, it entered the Australian market in 1999 through a distributor and in 2003 established its own brand here and has since been stocked in 210 retail stockists.
The opening of an Australian brand comes as brands such as North Face, Kathmandu and Rebel have continued to enjoy strong success even during tough times for retailers.
But founder James Moon says businesses should rethink the way they view physical stores – and start offering a “deeper range” of products, but with fewer brands.
“To compete, stores need to be offer a deeper range of products, but fewer brands so they can be seen as experts. They must also be competing on customer service. But, they can use their customer data-base established in-store to grow the online business,” he says.
“Consumer expectations have been reset. That’s a fact of life. But success depends upon the core principles of the business and the quality of the product you create. The more unique the product is you create, the less likely you are to have to discount.”
It took three years for Icebreaker to make its first profit of NZ$800, but now the store is turning over more than $NZ200 million.
Moon says Icebreaker intends to expand further in Australia by increasing its investment here.
“We will be growing the wholesale and the online business here and really trying to get all of the channels to integrate around making it more fun and easy for Australian customers to explore Icebreaker.
“It’s a really important long-term pathway for us,” he says.
Icebreaker first entered the Australian market through a distributor. Chief executive of the Retail Doctor Group, Brian Walker, says the business established a presence in the country first without the risk of a bricks-and-mortar investment.
“By going through a distributor, you get to understand the local market without having to go through the logistical challenges. Without opening in the market, you get to see what sells and what doesn’t; what consumers like and don’t like.”
However, while going through a distributor helps you to research a new market, Walker says there are disadvantages to doing so.
“Going through a distributor tends to adds costs and reduces margins typically,” he says.
“There has become a real question mark over time as to the role of distributors. Now, brands could just offer their products online into the Australian market and this would give the same benefits of consumer research and data,” he says.
Walker expects Icebreaker’s expansion in Australia will be successful, but it’ll face “pretty strong competition”.
“North Face, Kathmandu, Rebel and enthusiast stores like Paddy Palin have all done good business in that outdoor adventure-wear, so there is certainly customers who really enjoy this, there is a demand for these products,” he says.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
</body></html>

NZ adventure brand Icebreaker launches first Australian store in Melbourne's Chadstone

<html><body>
Mark Bouris’s Yellow Brick Road (YBR) franchise network grew its mortgage book by 21% to around $1.5 billion in the first three months of the year, its latest quarterly update reveals.
The growth in mortgage lending follows its new funding tie-up with Macquarie in November last year and just before it commenced its YBR branding blitz with Mark Bouris as the host of Channel 9’s Celebrity Apprentice.
Season three of Celebrity Apprentice, which kicked-off this week with a modest 866,000-viewer premier according to overnight OzTam metro figures, will feature a “YBR episode” based around a new product launch. (Channel Seven's much-mocked "Celebrity Splash" managed 1.3 million viewers with The Voice managing over two million.)
Last year, series two of Celebrity Apprentice premiered with 1.277 million viewers.
The Celebrity Apprentice series is also running alongside a “fully supported television advertising campaign”.
Channel 9’s Nine Ventures consumer investment group holds an 18% stake in Yellow Brick Road with Mark Bouris paying $2.65 million to sponsor reality television series on prime time television for three years with Bouris as host and contestants like <a href="/news">Roxy Jacenko</a> and the wannabe pop star Prinnie Stevens who was the first to be fired.
As for the product initiative, it could be a superannuation offering with YBR revealing plans for a “major product launch in the area of superannuation in late May 2013”.
Other products in the pipeline include a term deposit offering, a cash management account and credit card.
YBR attributed the growth in mortgage applications and settlements to its Empower Home Loan discount product offering.
The figures show the company now has 155 branches.
YBR reported a 32% in branch-generated receipts of $3.51 million for the quarter compared with $2.66 million in the previous corresponding period as a result of increased mortgage settlements and wealth revenue.
</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