<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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Many Australians dream of owning a business, and I am approached often for my opinions on the matter. Here’s a few questions to ask yourself before becoming a business owner:
What is the demand?
A business can only succeed if it meets a demand. So your first job is to ascertain the aggregate demand for your goods and services. You can get information from business intelligence services, government agencies and industry bodies. You must understand demand before opening your doors.
What do I bring?
Can you do the same as your competition, cheaper or faster or better? Will you work for less, do you have better technology, better employees, newer systems, greater innovation etc? Are you meeting excess demand with a me-too idea? All successful business people know what they bring to the market and they capitalise on it. So, you should know exactly why the market will deal with you and not your competitors. Know what makes you different and what it’s worth.
Do I have the money?
There are well defined cash flow dynamics in business – they operate around the average billing cycles and payment cycles. You should be able to chart the peaks and troughs of your cash flow so you can match outgoings to payment cycles and not run out of money. Having charted these dynamics, you can work out when and why you will need outside capital, in the form of a bank loan or other facility. Credit should always be planned in advance and you can get an accountant to do this as part of your planning if you don’t fully understand it. The worst position is to reach a critical point where you drop prices to push sales, thus reducing your profit margin. Advanced planning for capital avoids this disastrous spiral.
Can I build a team?
The idea of the business owner being a lone genius, doing all the thinking, is a dangerous fantasy. All successful business owners have a team of people who can add to their business goals. And these people must be rewarded and given incentives to keep them going. In general, a business owner first needs excellent people to cover the finance, operations and sales roles. That leaves you as the leader.
Am I a business owner?
Ask yourself: can I rise early, work myself to a stand still, spend all night doing paperwork and never take a holiday? Can I carry every decision on my own shoulders? Can I live a life when I’m never off the clock? If you prefer life to be predictable and you like a 40-hour week, perhaps proprietorship is not for you.
The business life is a wonderful challenge and a great way to contribute to society. However, I would advise anyone wanting to go into business to start with one simple rule: know your purpose. Business can be a hard, lonely, exhausting road and you’ll need to know why you’re doing this before you start the journey.
Good luck.
Mark Bouris is executive chairman of <a href="https://www.ybr.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yellow Brick Road</a>, a financial services company offering home loans, financial planning, accounting and tax, and insurance.
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Do you have what it takes to own a business?

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The housing market recovery has broadly been underway since the end of May last year and since that time dwelling values across the combined capital cities Index have increased by 4.7% through to the end of March 2013.
Most cities reached a low point at a different time and have recorded different rates of recovery.
Darwin, at 13.9%, has recorded the largest recovery in dwelling values followed by Perth (+9.4%), Hobart (+6.9%) and Sydney (+5.4%).
At the other end of the spectrum is Adelaide (+1.5%) and Brisbane (+3.1%) where the recovery in dwelling values has been more subdued.
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<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15one.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15onethumb.jpg"></a>
While the recovery is demonstrable across each city, the only city to reach a new historic high is Sydney, where values are now 0.1% higher than their previous November 2010 peak.
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Interestingly, the Sydney recovery has largely been driven by higher unit values rather than detached house values.
Looking at the Sydney recovery by dwelling type shows that Sydney unit values actually reached a new high way back in May last year while house values remain -0.4% lower than their 2010 peak.
Based on the combined ‘dwellings’ index, Sydney values are now broadly 0.1% higher than their November 2010 peak.
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Melbourne values recorded a more severe downturn, with values peaking in October 2010 and finding a low point at the end of May 2012.
The recovery to date hasn’t been enough to offset the decline, with values remaining -6.2% lower than their 2010 peak.
The recovery has been greater across the detached housing market (+5.2%) compared with units (+3.6%).
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<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15four.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15fourthumb.jpg"></a>
 
 
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Of all the capital cities, Brisbane’s housing market is showing the largest gap between peak and current dwelling values.
The correction across the Brisbane housing market has been more significant than other cities and values remain -9.5% lower than when they peaked back in November 2009.
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<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15five.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15fivethumb.jpg"></a>
Adelaide dwelling values remain -5.5% lower compared with their September 2010 peak.
Additionally, Adelaide is recording the smallest level of dwelling value recovery to date, with dwelling values increasing by just 1.5% between the June 2012 trough and the end of March 2013.
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<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15six.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15sixthumb.jpg"></a>
Perth’s housing market recovery has been substantial, with values rising 9.4% since they bottomed out in late 2011.
The market trough in Perth was much earlier than most other capital cities, with Perth’s housing market responding to the strong state economy and population growth that can be attributed to the local resources sector as well as an exceptionally tight housing market and rapidly rising rents.
House values have recovered much more than unit values, rising by 10.0% compared with a 6.8% recovery across the unit market.
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<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15seven.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/04/lawlessapril15seventhumb.jpg"></a>
 
 
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<a rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g2023]" href="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Perth-dwelling-values-from-market-peak-to-end-of-March-2013.jpg"></a>Hobart’s housing market has seen a recent improvement, with values now -8.7% lower than their November 2009 peaked.
Brisbane and Hobart were the two capital cities that recorded a market peak the earliest (both in November 2009) and it is no coincidence that it is these same two cities that are recording the largest gap between peak and current dwelling values.
The Hobart market bottomed out only recently (October 2012) and since that time values have risen by nearly 7%.
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Darwin’s housing market has recorded both the largest correction (values were down nearly 20% from peak to trough) and the strongest recovery with values having increased by 13.9% since they found an early low point back in January 2012.
Growth rates in Darwin have recently levelled however, suggesting the market may be starting to level.
Rents continue to rocket higher though, rising by close to 15% over the past year which suggests that yields will continue to move higher as well which could drive further value growth on the back of investor demand.
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Canberra’s housing market bottomed out quite early compared with other capital cities, in January 2012.
Since that time values are up 5.1%, which is a surprisingly strong recovery considering the local uncertainty that comes with a federal election and the recent softness across Canberra’s rental market (rents are down nearly 2% across Canberra’s house market).
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At a combined capital cities level, values still need to recover by more 3.0% before they reach a new historic high.  Based on the rate of recovery to date, it won’t be long before the housing market moves to a new historic high.
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data.</a>
 
 
 
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The national housing market is recovering but is not yet fully recovered: Tim Lawless

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A couple of gems are set to go under the hammer this weekend in two of the most sought after suburbs in Melbourne and Sydney.
Situated on one of Fairfield's premier streets, 48 Gordon Street is just a short walk to schools, parklands, trains and vibrant Station Street shopping.

Glorious natural light floods the impeccably presented interior of this attractive three-bedroom home, which enjoys a beautiful broad frontage and large north-facing rear garden plus versatile studio/home office.

It is likely that this home (pictured below) will fetch in excess of $850,000.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/tycoonapril12one.jpg" width="470" height="349" alt="tycoonapril12one">
Potential is a word that is thrown around a lot in the real estate world and this is what is on offer when 37 Glenayr Avenue, North Bondi goes under the hammer. 

Peacefully set on a level 436-square-metre block just moments to 'Seven Ways' cafes and a stroll to the beach, this spacious freestanding home offers a unique opportunity in a tightly-held enclave. It is neatly presented and there is fantastic scope to add value.

Damian Steele from McGrath Real Estate says it is worth between $1.6 million and $1.7 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/tycoonapril12two.jpg" width="470" height="309" alt="tycoonapril12two">
There's now a website, <a style="font-size: 14px;" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess five auction results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
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Fairfield and Bondi gems ready to under hammer in property tycoon auction tipping

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ANZ have announced that its standard variable home loan interest rate will remain unchanged at 6.4% per annum after their monthly interest rate review today.
 It follows the RBA announcing at its April meeting that it would keep the cash rate steady at 3%.
The Big Four have all continued to maintain roughly similiar rates with NAB still the lowest of the four at 6.38%, followed by Commonwealth Bank and ANZ at 6.40%.
Westpac has a standard variable rate of 6.51%.
All four banks reduced their standard variable interest rates in December last year following the Reserve Bank of Australia cutting its cash rate the same month by 25 basis points to 3%.
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ANZ sticks to 6.4% standard variable rate

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The Westpac bank branch on Wodonga's High Street that was owned by tyre king Bob Jane’s former wife, Laree Jane has been sold to another investor on behalf of receivers at auction for $2.6 million.
The 460 square metre property at 141 High Street was sold as part of a Burgess Rawson portfolio auction this week.
The property was not advertised as a mortgagee sale until announced so by auctioneer David Scholes from Auctionworks at a packed River Room at Crown Casino.
The property was sold on behalf of receivers, Sellers Muldoon Benton having been marketed by Jamie Perlinger and Billy Holderhead from Burgess Rawson. 
Westpac has a seven year lease commencing in 2009 on the building which has the latest Westpac fit-out.
Land transfer documents obtained after the auction by Property Observer show that a company called Grabzoom Wodonga Pty Ltd based in South Yarra acquired the building for $2.763 million with a loan from the Commonwealth Bank.
The document is signed Laree Madonna Jane, listed as the sole director and sole company secretary of Grabzoom Wodonga Pty Ltd with ASIC documents noting a 504C notification of appointment of a  controller on February 20 this year.
On February 21 this year, a caveat was placed over the property with Pitcher Partners noting their lending against the property.
Bidding for the bank branch started at $1.7 million with four bidders competing for the property.
The winning bid of $2.6 million represented a yield of around 7% with Westpac paying annual rent of $195,000.
RP Data records show the bank was paying net rent of $184,000 per annum when it was acquired by Grabzoom.
Bob Jane and Laree Jane separated in 2008 after two decades of marriage following a bitter break-up and dispute over two Bob Jane T-mart franchises.
At the same auction three other bank branches sold including a <a href="/news">Commonwealth Bank in Swan Hill</a> which fetched $1.41 million.
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Bob Jane’s former wife Laree Jane sells Wodonga bank branch investment at a loss

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The positive flow-on effect of rising house prices on the overall economy has been highlighted in a RBA research paper exploring the relationship between home prices and household spending.
The paper finds that spending by younger, more credit constrained households is more responsive to changes in home prices than that of older households.
Mortgage lending conditions also play a key factor in household spending.
The paper arguing that if rising house prices are accompanied by more freely available credit, then the propensity for young homebuyers to spend is even greater.
“Younger homeowners are more likely to be credit as well as buffer-stock savers.
“Accordingly, loosening of credit constraints suggests a stronger link between home prices and spending for younger homeowners,” say Callan Windsor, Jarkko Jääskelä and Richard Finlay, authors of the report.
The findings reinforce the importance of the first-home buyer segment to the overall health of the economy – at a time when first-home buyer numbers are at eight year lows, according to <a href="/news">Real Estate Institute of Australia</a> (REIA).
Many blame the first-home buyer grants in NSW and Queensland that incentivise the purchase of new homes over more-desired existing homes for the drop in numbers.
The RBA report also found that young and middle-aged homeowners respond more in terms of spending, than young renters to rising home prices.
It also  highlights the importance of owning a house as a buffer against future financial troubles with households perceiving housing wealth as a “precautionary saving vehicle against unanticipated future events such as redundancy”.
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Rising house prices encourage younger households to spend: RBA paper

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Sydney's five-star hotel sector strengthened in final quarter of 2012 as prospective buyers line up to purchase one of its prized assets, the Four Seasons in Circular Quay.

Both the occupancy rate and average takings per room per night increased in the December quarter compared with the previous quarter, according to the latest ABS tourist accommodation figures.

Among five-star hotels in Sydney, the occupancy rate was 88.6% with average takings per room per night at $289 compared with an occupancy rate of 84% in the September quarter and average takings per room per night of $259.

Overall, Sydney hotel occupancy rates remained well above 80% in the December quarter with the ABS recorded an occupancy rate of 82.8% over the final three months of 2012 up from 81.3% in the September quarter.

The outlook for the Sydney CBD hotel market also remains strong, according to the latest quarterly Dransfield Hotel Futures report.
The report anticipates occupancy rates in Sydney CBD hotels to remain comfortably above 80% over the remainder of the decade.


The inner Sydney hotel occupancy rate is expected to hover around 85% over the next two years and will average out at 84% over the second half of the decade – the strongest across all the major capital city hotel markets.

Revenue per available room (revPAR) in Sydney is expected to increase relatively strongly over the next two years - by 7.3% in 2013 and by 7.3% in 2014 - but will then taper off in subsequent years averaging 2.6% between 2015 and 2020.

Over this time, the average room rate in a Sydney CBD hotel is expected to increase from $195 per night to $269 per night.

Eureka Funds Management has listed its recently refurbished five-star Sydney Four Season Hotel in Circular Quay up for sale with initial price expectations of around $400 million and expressions of interest closing on April 5.
Standing at 199 George Street, it is one of Sydney’s premier hotels featuring 531 guest rooms and suites, many of which enjoy picturesque views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
The hotel opened in 1983 and operates under a long term management agreement with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts with the he 5, 314 square metre site leased from the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority until 2078.
It ranks as 14th best out of 185 hotels in Sydney, according to TripAdvisor, with room rates starting from around $1,100 per night for a double or twin room with city view.
The distinctive zig-zag shaped hotel was designed by architects Michael Dysart &amp; Partners and is built on the site of a former colonial jail, directly below the spot where Captain Arthur Philip landed in Sydney Cover in 1788.
It was purchase by Eureka in 2006 for $225 million from Chicago-based Walton Street Capital and Four Seasons Hotels.
Walton Street Capital and Four Seasons Hotels bought the hotel - then called the Regent Hotel - for about $155 million in 1998 and spent around $60 million refurbishing the property.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Eureka also owns the Rialto InterContinental Melbourne on Collins Street.
It has recently undergone an extensive $40 million dollar refurbishment program.
Interest is expected from overseas investors following a record number of hotels purchased by overseas investors in 2012. 
This week its been reported that the Malaysian group Mulpha has emerged as a leading contender for the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, which has also attracted bids from at least two wealthy Chinese investors.
The five-star Sydney hotel is now expected to change hands for between $330 million and $340 million, with about eight short-listed parties. 
The hotel has reputedly attracted interest from the Chinese conglomerate Fosun International, which is headed by Guo Guangchang, labelled China’s Warren Buffett.
Fosun International has a 7.1% stake in Club Mediterranee and is opening five Club Med Resorts in China.
Mulpha already owns on the other side of Circular Quay having acquired the Inter­Continental Hotel in 2004 when it bought the Principal portfolio.
Mulpha and sales agents Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels and McVay Real Estate have declined to comment on the sale to the Australian Financial Review.
Last June, Hong Kong-listed Shangri-La Asia paid $352 million to fully own the Sydney’s Shangri-La Hotel in The Rocks.
This deal followed soon after the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/malaysian-reit-pays-%24415-million-for-marriott-five-star-hotel-portfolio/2012061455118">Malaysia-listed Starhill Real Estate Investment Trust, paying $415 million</a> in January for a portfolio of three five-star Marriott hotels – the Sydney Harbour Marriott, the Brisbane Marriott and the Melbourne Marriott.
Last year Eureka spent $15 million refurbishing including the addition of a new restaurant and upgrades to conferencing spaces, the Executive Club Lounge, swimming pool area and lifts.
It follows an $18 million refurbishment to the Grand Ballroom.
The property is marketed with residential development potential.
“An incoming owner has the potential to develop substantial residential components at the hotel through two different scenarios, both of which are subject to obtaining necessary regulatory approvals.
“The first opportunity is to convert up to 231 existing hotel guest rooms to residential apartment units. The second concept is to build an additional residential tower on the northern end of the site,” notes the investor memorandum.
The selling agents are Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels managing director of Craig Collins and Dan McVay, chairman of McVay Real Estate,
“This is a truly unique offering. Sitting on one of Australia’s best sites, in the key corporate and tourism market, operated by one of the world’s best brands,” says Dan McVay.
“The lack of supply means that there are very few opportunities to gain a foothold in the Sydney CBD market. This, coupled with the recent refurbishment and future development potential of the site, means that there will be very strong demand from buyers for this asset,” he adds.
According to Dransfield, the Sydney inner city hotel market underperformed in the first nine months of 2012, with revPAR increasing by 1.2% over this period compared with expectations of 7.9% growth.

The latest report– for the September 2012 quarter – notes that experienced revPAR growth of 1.2% vs. expectations of 7.9% for the Sydney City region, with Dransfield attributing this to hoteliers not wanting to push up rates on stalling demand.

However, average room rates (ARR) and revPAR are expected to strengthen somewhat over 2013.
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Strong outlook for Sydney hotels as buyers line up for Sydney Four Seasons Hotel 

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The unexpected rise in the unemployment rate in March may spur the Reserve Bank to begin cutting rates again, but not immediately, says Macquarie senior economist Brian Redican.
The unemployment rate increased by 0.2 percentage points to a two-and-a-half year high of 5.6% in March.
Redican attributed to the rise in unemployment – 36,000 jobs were lost over the month – to a weakening in the jobs market possibly due to a slowdown in mining investment.
He told AAP the March figures would be added the “column suggesting further rate cuts may be needed”.
However, he said the <a href="tags/rba" target="_blank">RBA</a> was unlikely to cut the cash rate on one set of numbers alone.
Redican says the cash could fall as low as 2%.
The most recent Bloomberg survey of economists has Macquarie Bank tipping a cash rate of 2% by the end of the year, with a rate cut pencilled in for May.
HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham says the labour force survey can be very volatile with the past couple of months “a clear example of this” and also points out that the ABS is 95% confidence the unemployment rate was between 5.4% and 5.8%.
Bloxham says the trend numbers “probably give a clearer read”.
“They showed that employment rose by 12,600 jobs in March, the unemployment rate was steady at 5.5% and the participation rate was steady at 65.1%,” he says.
“Overall, the labour market remains loose, with an unemployment rate above our full employment estimates of around 5.0%.
“This leaves the RBA with scope to cut rates if they need to. But the question is: will they need to?
“Other indicators suggest that the rate cuts they have already delivered are having many of the desired effects.
“Retail sales rose strongly in January and February. Consumer sentiment rose sharply in February/March and, although it retraced a little in April, is still above average. Housing prices have been rising solidly in recent months. The housing construction upturn has continued,” he says.
Bloxham says a loose labour market does provide the RBA with scope to ease further if it needs to, but does not believe the RBA will need to.
“We expect some tightening of the labour market in coming months as the interest-rate sensitive sectors gain pace.”
ANZ's economics team agreed with Bloxham.
“[The March unemployment figures] firmly suggest that the RBA will be in no rush to dispose of its easing bias,” says ANZ in an economic note.
“We and the Bank have been looking for the unemployment rate to rise slowly and the trend labour force data clearly show this.
“As a result, the figures are also unlikely to be enough to result in the RBA acting on its easing bias for the time being. The low level of capacity utilisation in <place><country-region>Australia</country-region></place> suggests that an improvement in the unemployment rate is not expected in the near term.”
“The RBA has communicated that they expect the labour market to weaken, with the unemployment rate rising modestly over 2013.  The March employment data is in line with this view.  We expect that the cash rate will remain on hold in May and over 2013,” said CBA economist Michael Workman.
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RBA likely to resume rate cuts sometime in 2013 after unemployment rise: Macquarie’s Brian Redican

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“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…” These words seem as relevant describing the Melbourne property market today as they were when written by Charles Dickens over 150 years ago in A Tale of Two Cities.
The latest RP Data stats show that overall Melbourne dwelling prices increased by 2.5% over the last quarter and have risen 4.9% since the market turned in May last year.
Not a bad result! But when you dig deeper you find there is a shortage of well-located, desirable, established apartments and houses in Melbourne’s middle ring suburbs, causing prices to rise and auction clearance rates to remain high.
But on the other hand, there is a glut of new apartments coming onto the market and a dearth of new house and land packages standing vacant not able to find buyers.
Add to this the record number of new apartments coming onto the market in some of Melbourne's inner suburbs over the next few years, which will put further pressure on the city's supply and demand ratio.
According to a recent report by valuers <a href="https://www.charterkc.com.au/" target="_blank">Charter Keck Kramer</a>, about 25,500 new apartments will be completed in metropolitan Melbourne by the end of next year, four times what was built in 2005, when the market for apartments last peaked.
And there are even more in the pipeline. Across the Melbourne metropolitan area there were about 10,250 apartment completions last year, 19,250 under construction and 16,300 being marketed but not under construction.
Many off-the-plan purchasers will be disappointed
The problem is that many Melbourne purchasers bought their off-the-plan apartments a few years ago during more buoyant times, and according to Charter Keck Kramer, eight out of ten off-the-plan apartment sales coming up for completion over the next two-and-a-half years could be facing negative equity.
Apartment prices across Melbourne have fallen between 7% and 11% in the past 12 months and even more than that in some areas of oversupply.
The potential problem for off-the-plan buyers is that, on completion, valuations will fall far short of their contract purchase price and the banks will only lend against the lower valuation. This means many buyers will have to bridge the gap, coming up with the shortfall as well as the stamp duty and acquisition costs.
If history repeats itself, some buyers will try and walk away from their contracts, accepting the loss of their deposits. But they could be in for a rude surprise if the developer on-sells the apartment at a lower price and sues the original purchaser for any loss.
 
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Melbourne house and land sales are also in big trouble
One more thing: the new house and land market in Melbourne also has a huge oversupply.
According to real estate group Oliver Hume, there has been a 29% increase in the number of residential projects being marketed on Melbourne fringes since 2006, at a time when there is a 5% decline in the number of land settlements.
Land prices have now fallen by a cumulative 16% over eight consecutive quarters, forcing developers and marketing companies to entice first home buyers and property investors by offering substantial incentives.
At the same time as experiencing an oversupply of land, these areas lack infrastructure and facilities, meaning there will be no swift recovery in the outer-Melbourne residential new housing markets.
If you want to get an idea of the huge oversupply just hop on to <a href="https://realestate.com.au/" target="_blank">RealEstate.com.au</a> and type in <a href="/news">Point Cook</a> or <a href="/news">Truganina</a> and you’ll be shocked by how many properties are for sale.
I’ll save you the trouble: Point Cook and surroundings – 3482; Truganina – 4020.
And it’s much the same for many of the northern and western outer suburbs in Melbourne.
So why are the stats showing the Melbourne property market is rising?
Considering the outer suburbs are performing so poorly, the overall figures just show the strength of the established home and apartment market in Melbourne’s inner and middle ring suburbs where there is a shortage of good properties.
Now is a time to be very selective in what you buy in Melbourne. While there are some good buying opportunities, there are also a lot of secondary properties on the market right now.
Michael Yardney is a director of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Strategists</a>.
 
 
 
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Melbourne's property market is a tale of two cities: Michael Yardney

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Switching on the telly the other night, I said to myself: “It’s that time again.”
I watched a media report on the age old Rent versus Buy Dilemma. It happens every cycle when we see rents increase and interest rates decrease. All of a sudden, tenants start to realise that they can buy for the same cost of renting.
What we have seen in most markets around the country is a continuous rise in rental returns over the past few years. We’ve seen this in the Hunter Region of New South Wales where Property Bloom develops.
The rise in rents has been great for investors already in the market who have benefited from strong yields. Our clients have achieved up to 9% gross yields.
But there comes a time when we reach a point in the property life cycle when interest rates are low so the cost to fund a mortgage is around the same cost as it is for a tenant to rent.
I’ve seen this happen before about twelve years ago in NSW when the interest rates were low, but the big difference back then was that the cash rate was fluctuating from 5.50% to 6.25% instead of 3% which is where we are now.
We thought the cash rate was low back then. So the average variable rate may have been around 8% compared to about 6% now.
Investors right now are on an awesome wicket... do you realise it?
If you are a new property investor, you may not appreciate this. We’ve had low interest rates since 2009. For the past four years, the cash rate has not been higher than 4.75%.
We oldies have worked with cash rates as high as 6.75% back in late 2007 so the variable rate would have been around 9%. I know my parents had to deal with much higher interest rates in the 1990s when the cash rate peaked at 17.5% - can you even imagine what that would have been like?
What I’m trying to say is: we are in such a fabulous environment right now for property investing.
Interest rates are at a record low, rental returns are high and we will very soon see tenants starting to buy rather than rent. This will create demand. Demand drives up sales prices and this translates to capital growth.
As property investors, this is great news as we will see our properties increase in value. But there is a flip side of course. As tenants move out of our investment properties to buy, there will be an oversupply of rental properties and we’ll have to drop our rents. This means lower yields.
We can’t have it both ways forever.
My message today is: don’t muck around if you are thinking of buying more property or your first property. Think of taking it one step further and add value to your property through developing it; I personally think you should be sitting pretty by developing now.
You’ll create or manufacture equity through the development process. And if you can time it when capital growth is occurring in your location, then you’ll hit the jackpot.
Jo Chivers is director of <a style="font-size: 14px;" title="Property Bloom" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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