<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

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March quarter statistics appear to confirm what we have been experiencing on the ground: house prices are on the rise.
According to the REIV, house prices rose by 5.1% to just over $560,000 and although a single quarter does not make a market it will certainly turn the spotlight onto property.
Investors always seem to want just a little bit more and as house prices move many investors will start to think of ways to maximise their returns.
One of the strategies that will raise its head is property flipping: buying a residential investment property, renovating it, then selling it to make a profit.
Property flipping is a common strategy, but unless you plan carefully, it may not bring the kind of return you were hoping for.
When you buy a residential property, the state government asks you to pay stamp duty worth around 5% of the purchase price.  
If you’ve borrowed to purchase the property and undertake the renovations, you are paying interest on the loan without receiving any rental income during the renovation period to offset the loan repayments.  
When you sell the property, you’ll lose 2-3% of the sale price in the commission you pay the real estate agent, plus another 1% in advertising costs.  
In short, not only are you paying interest on an investment loan out of your own pocket, but you are losing close to 10% of the property’s value merely by entering and leaving the market.  
And, when you actively add value to a property, you are taking a gamble that the sale price will equal the price of the renovations plus your profit margin. Most property grows in value over time, but not all sectors of the market grow at the same rate.  
If there isn’t sufficient demand for your style and location of property, you may not make enough money to cover the entry and exit costs, outstanding loan balance and renovation costs, let alone make a profit. If you do make money on the transaction and you sell the property, you will also be liable for capital gains tax. It’s like taking two steps forward and one back.  
I am not saying that buying to renovate and sell is a poor strategy in itself. It can be highly successful, but only if the capital growth outstrips the buying, holding and selling costs.
Even in locations where capital growth is strongest, this may take several years. And capital growth compounds, so the longer you hold the asset, the greater the amount of growth.
If you sell the property as soon as the renovations are complete, you may not have allowed enough time for capital growth to take full effect — substantially reducing your potential profit.  
In other words, the substantial entry, exit and holding costs mean residential property should not be traded like shares, but held for the long term (at least 7 to 10 years) to ensure the capital growth justifies all the expenses you’ve incurred along the way.  
If a real estate agent is advertising a property as perfect for adding value, ask yourself whose interests they are promoting — yours or theirs? Remember, they stand to make a commission on selling the property for the previous owner, followed quickly by another commission on selling the property for you after it has been renovated.  
If you still believe that buying to renovate and selling quickly is the right strategy for you, make sure you calculate all the likely holding and transaction costs.  
Then, research the local market to determine the property’s likely selling price. Look at other properties in the area that have been renovated to the same standards as yours and sold in the last three months.  
It’s also important to factor in the cost of your time. How much you would have earned from your normal job if you weren’t at the property supervising or undertaking the renovations? And what about your leisure time? How much time will you spend away from your family and friends?
For example, if the project is going to take up six months of your evenings and weekends when you would otherwise have spending time with loved ones, will the expected financial profit make that lost time worthwhile?
If the holding, transaction and time costs add up to more than the property’s likely sale price, you may need to reconsider whether it’s worthwhile undertaking the project.
Mark Armstrong is a director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ipropertyplan.com.au/">iProperty Plan</a>, which provides independent analysis and tailored advice to investors and homebuyers.
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marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

Property flipping is risky business

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There is currently two schools of thought with regard to the future of the retail property market.
The first believes that after much hibernation, retail property is set to surge again.
The second believes that with the high dollar, and growth in online shopping, retail has much catching up to do.
Despite Australia having been mostly sheltered from the GFC, retailers (especially in strip shopping centres) have been doing it rather tough.
Before the GFC, retail property yields had plummeted – in some cases, as low as 3.5% per annum – with investors clamouring for what they saw as "sexy property". And they believed values would always increase dramatically.
Then, everything changed
Consumers became nervous, and decided to save or pay off more of their mortgages rather than spend on anything other than necessities. And this continued for the ensuing five years.
That is, until February 2013, when retail sales surged 1.3% — the largest monthly increase for 12 years.
Moreover, according to the ABS, it appears to be broad-based with strong growth in household goods and department stores (both up by 1.6%) and eating out (up by 1.3%).
Therefore, on the face of it, things appear to be looking rosy for the retail sector once more.
Yet, all is not well
Perhaps a snapshot from a typical strip centre in <a href="/news">Fairfield</a> in Melbourne would suggest otherwise.
According to the Herald Sun, "In Fairfield's trendy Station Street, some stores have shut and others have shifted online but, as Elissa Doherty reports, at least the op shop's thriving..."
This strip centre is punctuated by vacant shops with one boutique saying it all with a sign: "Closing down sale, going online".
Overall, the fashion and specialty shops are still struggling. Although food seems to be holding its own — presumably because everyone still needs to eat.
And sadly, this scene will merely be a reflection of what's occurring in most capital cities around Australia.
Bottom line: you simply need to go back to basics. Gone are the days of retail property being considered the glamour sector.
To be a successful investor, what you require is:
<ul>
<li>
an established retailer;
</li>
<li>
running a profitable business;
</li>
<li>
secured on a long lease; and
</li>
<li>
paying proper market rental.
</li>
</ul>
In other words, the precise criteria office and industrial investors have been adopting for years.
However, with the ongoing structural changes still occurring in the retail sector, that may prove to be a rather difficult task.
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors, sell-out author and regular speaker on how to invest in commercial property. You can visit his website <a href="https://property-edge.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Property Edge Australia</a> to help you get the most out of your commercial property investing.
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chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

Retail property is no longer glamorous

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Macquarie Group has taken a 19.84% stake in the listed mortgages company Homeloans Ltd.
It paid $20.1 million for the Homeloans stake in an off-market transfer last Friday, according to substantial notices lodged Tuesday.
The trade was done at 95¢ a share, or a 20¢ a share premium to Homeloans closing price. Homeloans shares were up 6¢ to 81¢ when trading resumed Tuesday.
Macquarie bought the stake off Challenger Group who ceased being a major shareholder. 
It listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in 2001.
Homeloans specialises in home loans with a wide range of products to meet the needs of customers from first home buyers to investors.
Macquarie's move into Homeloans, which was founded in 1985, comes as Macquarie seeks to boost its mortgages business which includes equity in Yellow Brick Road.  It took an 8.3% in Mark Bouris’s mortgage broker, Yellow Brick Road, last December.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/mortgages/macquarie-bank-doubles-loans-to-investors-in-first-nine-months-of-2012-apra-figures" target="_blank">Macquarie has been growing its residential home loan book sizably over recent times</a>.
Homeloans was founded by Perth entrepreneurs, the current chairman Tim Holmes and director Rob Salmon, who each own a 12% stake.
They are reportedly reluctant to sell, according to the Australian Financial Review who speculate Macquarie was likely to launch a full takeover bid for Homeloans.
NAB’s mortgage aggregator, Advantage, owns a significant 17% stake in Homeloans, after it bought the holding from Challenger in 2009.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Macquarie takes Homeloans stake

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RBA board members noted at their April meeting that Australia's housing markets continued to improve.
Its April meeting minutes noted house prices increased again over March, to be 4¼ per cent above their mid-2012 trough.
The board also noted that auction clearance rates had moved higher and there were signs of somewhat stronger growth in housing loan approvals.
The Bank's liaison with home builders suggested that demand for new housing had been a little more positive of late, with a rise in activity reported in most capital cities.
"Over the past few months, housing loan approvals had picked up for both owner-occupiers and investors, and stronger conditions in the established housing market more generally were expected to support moderate growth of dwelling investment this year," the minutes said.
"Overall, recent data suggested that interest-sensitive parts of the economy were responding to the historically low levels of lending rates and it remained likely that this had further to run.
"At the same time, the factors weighing on the economy – including the high exchange rate, the waning growth of mining investment, and fiscal consolidation – were likely to persist.
"The key issues were what the balance of these factors would turn out to be.
"With growth forecast to be a little below trend in 2013, and inflation close to target, members judged that it was appropriate for the stance of policy to be accommodative.
"The outlook for inflation, as currently assessed, would provide scope for further easing should that be necessary to support demand.
"At this meeting, the board's judgement remained that, on the information currently to hand, the most prudent course was to hold rates steady and to continue to assess developments over the period ahead."
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rba.gov.au/monetary-policy/rba-board-minutes/2013/02042013">The board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 3%</a>.
Members were also updated on the funding composition of Australian banks, with deposits rising further as a share of total funding, despite being more expensive than comparable wholesale funding sources.
"Average interest rates on outstanding housing and business loans had been largely unchanged since the end of February.
"In the money market, current pricing implied a very small expectation of an easing in monetary policy at the current meeting, and less than one 25 basis point easing priced in by the end of the year," the minutes noted.
 
 
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Australia's housing market - including new homes - show positive signs: RBA April meeting minutes

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Peninsula Riverside, a 15-storey apartment tower is slated for construction in Kangaroo Point as Tom Dooley Developments (TDD) has emerged as an $11 million Thorn Street development site project buyer.
It's one of the sites that Property Observer reported in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/shafston-house-listed-by-keith-lloyd/2013013158998">February</a> has having been listed by Brisbane businessman Keith Lloyd.
The tower will replace a 31-unit apartment complex currently operated as student accommodation.
"There are 31 old flats we are knocking down for the new building," TDD managing director Tom Dooley told Property Observer.
The site’s original development approval allowed for a 20-level mixed use building, which will be amended by Dooley. 
TDD plans to build a 168-apartment block on the site, overlooking the landmark Shafston House, with north-easterly views of the river.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.tdd.com.au/">TDD development group </a>has previously completed three other projects in Kangaroo Point. These include 19 Thorn, a 28-unit apartment block on 19 Thorn Street; Story, an apartment complex located at 89 Lambert Street, and luxury development Mon Rêve, at 98 Thorn Street.
Story comprised 72 apartments and six two-storey townhouses when completed in January 2007. It was awarded the 2007 regional commendation from the Royal Australian Institute of Architects.
Mon Rêve is an award-winning luxury development of 43 apartments spread across two towers on the north-eastern reach of the Brisbane River. It was completed in 2004.
“There has been a lack of new apartments in Kangaroo Point due to the shortage of development sites and the fact that the Kangaroo Point Peninsula is landlocked by the river,” Mr Dooley said.
The new development will be priced from $370,000, offering one and two-bedroom apartments.
Mr Dooley told Property Observer that marketing for the new development began last Friday with its first release.
Work is expected to start on the development, to be named Peninsula Riverside, in August.
Property Observer reported in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/australand-profits-up-5-in-interesting-times-with-strong-demand-for-melbourne-apartments/2013020659199">February</a> that property developer Australand’s Kangaroo Point developments The Promontory, The Linc, and The Residences were showing strong sales.
The apartments at Kangaroo Point Peninsula are currently <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-kangaroo+point-113431615">listed for sale</a>. <a target="_blank" href="/news">RP Data gives the suburb's median unit price as $470,000</a>.
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dleow-BGaNPbHWyK

Tom Dooley returns to Kangaroo Point with fourth residential project

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I often get asked by my investor clients about whether they should furnish their investment properties.
The answer to this really depends on your market and current demand.
For example, over the past few years in inner city Sydney, I have seen a growth in the number of investors who choose to furnish their apartments not just for a higher financial return but also for practical reasons – with many choosing to live in the property between tenancies.
Overall, there is much more interest in unfurnished properties in this market; around 75% of my clients who are looking for a lease property will ask for an unfurnished place that can be fitted out to suit their taste and style. Generally, unfurnished tenancies are longer-term leases with minimal vacancy and wear and tear.
However, good quality unfurnished apartments available for lease in the inner city are getting harder to come by with close to 85% of apartments sold in this market over the past year have been to owner-occupiers.
If you do decide to furnish your property to lease, there are a few key things you will need to consider:
<ul>
<li>
Furnished properties generally have a shorter lease term – usually between 3-12 months – so you need to factor in a higher turnover of tenancies, which means increased possibility of vacancy and more frequent leasing fees.
</li>
<li>
If you are going to do it, it needs to be done well! Your apartment needs to be beautifully styled and warm and inviting. It also needs to be fully equipped; it’s easy to forget the smaller details like kitchen utensils, vacuum cleaners, linen, and so on.
</li>
<li>
Monitor all your furnishings and ensure that your entire inventory is well maintained. Items should be replaced promptly if they are not working. Most properties need an update of furnishings or restyling every 3–5 years
</li>
</ul>
When furnishing an investment, you need to be aware that although you may receive a premium of between $100-$250 a week for the furniture; once you have factored in the probable vacancy due to the shorter-term leases, the maintenance of inventory items and extra agency fees – you’re likely to achieve a better return on an unfurnished property.
In saying this, if your investment is more of a lifestyle choice and you’re able to use your city pad in between tenancies, then enjoy!
Carlie Ziri is the director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lifestylepropertyagency.com/" rel="nofollow">Lifestyle Property Agency.</a>
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cziri-avMho78xfG

The pros and cons of furnishing your investment property

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RP Data anticipates 1,319 capital city auctions over the coming week, which would mirror the previous week's 1,395 recorded auctions. 
The auction clearance rate last week was 62.7%, which was a slight increase from the previous week's 61.7%.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/04/rpdataauctionsapril16one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/rpdataauctionsapril16onethumb.gif"></a>
This time last year the clearance rate was much lower at 46.8% with a total of 893 auctions across the capital cities. 
Melbourne recorded 610 auctions last week with a clearance rate of 67.5% – an improvement from the week before of 544 auctions and a clearance rate of 63.2%.
The clearance rate for Melbourne this time last year was much lower at 50.8%.
Meanwhile Sydney auction volumes remain virtually unchanged across the city with a total of 530 auctions last week and 528 auctions the week prior.
However, Sydney’s clearance rate grew to 68.6% last week, up from the 66.4% rate recorded the week before.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/04/rpdataauctionsapril16two.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/rpdataauctionsapril16twothumb.gif"></a>
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

National auction volume slightly down this week: RP Data

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Well, where to start today?
Firstly we have got the China data. GDP growth of 7.7% y/y may sound very strong, but the market was expecting better, and the quarterly result of 1.6% growth implies that perhaps future growth may be lower.
This was a bit of a kick in the guts for the market, and Australian stocks got a reality check, falling sharply by 1.6% before recovering a little, and the dollar fell sharply too to 104.3 cents.
As margin calls are activated gold prices continued to get hammered by a further 3%. The share price of gold miner Newcrest (NCM) got crucified falling by more than 8% today to below $17.92 from its high of recent years of above $40.
All looking a bit shaky, which will renew calls for a further <a href="?option=com_googlesearch_cse&amp;q=interest%20rate%20cut" target="_blank">interest rate cut</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril16onethumb.gif" width="470" height="324" alt="wargentapril16onethumb">
Source: ASX
On the positive side, Australian housing finance data beat expectations with investor demand increasing by 15% y/y and reaching its highest level in more than half a decade as the property market recovery continues. The total value of dwelling commitments continues to grow:
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril16twothumb.gif" width="400" height="502" alt="wargentapril16twothumb">
Source: ABS
In my book <a target="_blank" href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Get-a-Financial-Grip/968/productview.aspx">Get a Financial Grip</a>, I discussed the trend towards apartment dwelling, and how investors - having been spooked by the brutal stock market crash through 2008 and early 2009 - increasingly look to real estate as a tangible store of wealth which they feel they can better understand.
Capital city property markets were once seen as places to live. Today they are largely investment markets.
RP Data's Weekly Report yesterday showed that the highest auction clearance rates were once again in Sydney, and the fastest selling property type continues to be units in that city. This has been reflected in increasing prices in that sector.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/wargentapril16threethumb.gif" width="400" height="244" alt="wargentapril16threethumb">
Meanwhile, the property cycle moves on in Britain with prices up to a five-year high. As noted here before, the south-east of England is where the bulk of the housing shortage is forecast to be, and it is no surprise to see the gains led by London prices (reportedly now 17% higher than their  previous peak).
However, when adjusted for inflation, median UK house prices are below where they were at their peak, so the 'Help to Buy' scheme may well see prices move higher. Foreign investors are particularly attracted to London - especially <a target="_blank" href="https://www.worldpropertychannel.com/asia-pacific-commercial-news/malaysia-funds-investment-london-property-6714.php">Malaysians</a> it seems!
Pete Wargent holds a range of finance and property qualifications and is the author of <a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Get a Financial Grip – a simple plan for financial fr</a><a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">eedom.</a>
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Strong housing finance data and Sydney auctions performance shows market recovery is continuing

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The latest rental report from Australian Property Monitors highlights how much apartments are challenging standalone houses for the hearts and minds of property consumers.  
One of real estate’s dominant paradigms has been that houses out-value apartments because of the greater land content. The land appreciates and the dwelling depreciates, so they say.  
But as more and more buyers and renters opt for apartments, the old dynamic is shifting.  
In Melbourne, the median rent for apartments is the same as that for houses, at $360 per week. In Sydney, there is a narrowing gap: the median house rent is $500 and the median unit rent is $470. There’s also a small difference in Brisbane: $390 for houses and $375 for units.
The popularity of apartments as a lifestyle choice has been rising readily for years. This is seen in the figures for new dwelling construction across Australia: the market share of units and townhouses has risen sharply in the past five years.  
In 2008-09, 30% of new dwellings were units. It rose to 33% in 2009-10 and further to 38% in 2011-12. In the current financial year it will be close to 40% of new dwellings constructed.  
Part of this may be attributed to over-building in places like the Gold Coast and inner Melbourne, but it does tend to confirm the steady rise of attached dwellings as a force in the market.  
This has gathered pace through the preferences of younger buyers, opting to buy or rent closer to the inner-city action, rather than secure a house on land further out, and preferring also the low-maintenance lifestyle offered by units and townhouses.  
Affordability is another part of the choice. While the rental gap between houses and units has narrowed, there is still a considerable difference in price for those opting to buy.  
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/rp-data-rismark-march-1-daily-index/2012030153640">RP Data-Rismark Home Value Indexes</a> indicate that the typical Sydney house costs $620,000 but the standard unit is $488,000. So while houses cost only 6% more than units to rent, they cost 27% more to buy.  
In Melbourne the average house costs 20% more than the typical unit, but there no difference in the rent. In Brisbane, houses cost 33% more than units but the rental differential is only 4%.  
That’s an equation that should make investors sit up straight and pay attention. Units are much cheaper and the rental returns, on average, are much better.  
It’s clear from the planning decisions coming out of state governments around Australia that our political leaders want more of their population growth to be absorbed through infill development, in preference to growing the city footprint through house-and-land urban sprawl.  
We’re seeing councils in our major cities allowing greater densities to be developed in suburbs currently dominated by standalone houses.  
There’s no doubt that the near future holds a vision of more residents living in units and townhouses, preferably close to public transport nodes.  
And, increasingly, this will change the parameters for investing in our major cities.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au">hotspotting.com.au</a>
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Times are changing and apartments are on the rise

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Population growth is an important determinant of housing demand – to put it simply, more people generally equates to a larger requirement for new homes.
I'd like to look at the broad national population growth figures, which were recently released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, and at the September quarter population change data in more detail, focusing on the state-by-state results.

At a national level, population growth is fuelled by two factors: the rate of natural increase (births minus deaths) and overseas migration.  At a state level interstate migration is also a factor in population growth.

On a state-by-state basis <a href="?option=com_googlesearch_cse&amp;q=population" target="_blank">population</a> growth has been strongest in absolute terms within Victoria (94,837), Queensland (91,389), New South Wales (86,033) and Western Australia (81,694).
These four states have accounted for 92.5% of total population growth over the 12 months to September 2012.
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Across the individual states, only Queensland (12,104), Western Australia (11,091), Victoria (1,296) and the Australian Capital Territory (755) have seen a net gain in population from interstate migrants (i.e. more residents arrived over the state/territory border than left for other states/territories).
Over the year to September 2012, the net number of interstate migrants arriving in Queensland was at its highest level since the 12 months to December 2009 and Western Australia’s net interstate migration figure was its highest level on record since the time series began in June 1982.
On the other hand, 18,448 more residents left New South Wales than arrived over the year followed by 2,748 net residents leaving Tasmania, 2,541 net residents left South Australia and 1,509 net residents left the Northern Territory.
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As the above chart shows, the resource states are currently the largest beneficiaries of interstate migrants from other states.
 
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Queensland has always been a significant beneficiary of population growth from other states, particularly New South Wales and Victoria, however, the rise in prominence of Western Australia is a relatively new feature.
This is likely to be a result of the resources sector boom which has occurred in that state over recent years.
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The other side of the equation of course is overseas migration and which states reap the benefits of these new arrivals.
Over the past 12 months, 91.8% of all overseas migrants or 209,403 persons have settled in one of New South Wales (59,432), Victoria (53,996), Western Australia (50,613) and Queensland (45,362).
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As the above graph shows, most overseas migrants to Australia have initially settled in either New South Wales or Victoria and based on this you can assume they tend to settle in Sydney or Melbourne.
Given this, the benefits (and costs) of overseas migration are not being felt right across the country but are mainly concentrated in the major population centres of New South Wales, Victoria , Queensland and Western Australia.

Based on all these figures, outside of New South Wales, those states which tend to lose residents to other states (or see a low inflow) also fail to attract a significant proportion of new arrivals to the country.
This has repercussions for the overall economic performance of these states as they lose many of their young and educated to the larger states which arguably have more abundant education and job opportunities.
On the other hand, a number of these states and territories are also failing to attract overseas migrants.
The reason being that these migrants also tend to be more attracted to the areas with better educational facilities and job prospects.
Perhaps some of the smaller states should be looking at ways that they can better attract new migrants to their state, surely factors such as cheaper housing in states like South Australia and Tasmania could be an attractive lure but there must also be the jobs and wages available to both attract and then keep these new settlers.
It may also help to stem the flow of residents that leave these smaller states.
Cameron Kusher is senior research analyst at <a href="https://www.rpdata.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
 
 
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