High-profile apartment defect cases have changed the way many NSW buyers approach purchasing, putting greater scrutiny on building quality, strata records and the parties behind a development before a contract is signed.

The industry buyers are assessing today, however, is also different from the one in which cases such as Opal Tower and Mascot Towers emerged.

NSW has introduced a series of regulatory measures aimed at strengthening oversight of apartment construction, including Building Commission NSW, the Residential Apartment Buildings Act 2020 and the Strata Building Bond and Inspections Scheme. Under the latter, developers are required to lodge a bond, with independent inspections forming part of the process for identifying defects in new strata developments.

Those changes provide another layer of protection, but they haven't removed the importance of buyer due diligence.

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For purchasers considering an apartment, that means looking beyond the residence itself. Building and strata history, strata reports, the track record of the builder and developer, the condition of common property and any known or planned expenditure by the owners corporation can all form part of assessing a building before purchase.

Whether the development is already complete can also materially change what can be assessed.

An off-the-plan purchaser is necessarily buying before the finished product exists. A completed apartment, by comparison, can be walked through before contracts are signed, allowing the purchaser to see the finishes, common areas and broader building as they have actually been delivered rather than relying solely on plans and renders.

It also removes exposure to some of the uncertainties that exist between an off-the-plan purchase and completion, including construction delays, cost pressures and builder insolvency during the delivery period.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a> National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said that greater focus on tangible evidence is increasingly evident among apartment purchasers.

“The biggest shift we're seeing is buyers wanting proof, not promises,” Hamblett said.

“That's exactly why we deal in completed stock - you can inspect the building before you commit - and why we've backed every purchase with a cash bond against special levies.”

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> in Parramatta, that emphasis on a completed, inspectable product is already in place.

The 413-apartment, 46-level tower at 12 Phillip Street is being marketed by Projects by Equitifund, allowing prospective purchasers to inspect the residences, common areas and resident facilities before committing.

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The Lennox also introduces another layer to the due-diligence conversation through Strata Surety.

The vendor-funded arrangement provides purchasers with a cash-backed bond held in their own solicitor's trust account from settlement. According to Equitifund, the bond covers any special levy raised during the applicable cover period and is provided at no cost to the purchaser.

Special levies can create an unexpected cost for apartment owners where an owners corporation needs funding beyond its existing strata contributions. Under NSW strata law, a special levy requires approval by owners at a general meeting.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said Strata Surety was designed to provide something more concrete than reassurance about that potential exposure.

“Buyers have every right to ask hard questions about strata risk - the industry has given them plenty of reasons to,” Huxley said.

“Our answer isn't a reassurance, it's a bond. Strata Surety puts real money behind that confidence, held by the buyer's own solicitor, not by us.”

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For The Lennox, its completed status also means purchasers can assess not only the apartment itself, but a building that has already been occupied and operating for several years.

Completed in 2021, the $300 million development, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, with open-plan living areas extending to private balconies. Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops and integrated appliances, while many upper-level residences have views across the river and surrounding district.

Its established amenity can similarly be inspected in operation. Resident facilities include the Watermark precinct with a 20-metre pool, outdoor terrace, barbecue areas, gym, fitness studio and conference room, while ground-floor retail addresses the river walk and surrounding public space.

The Lennox is also home to the Southern Hemisphere's first fully robotic residential car park, which has now operated for several years. Its nine-level basement combines three conventional parking levels with six automated levels, accommodating 327 vehicles using technology from German firm Lödige Industries.

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The riverfront address puts The Lennox close to much of central <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a>'s existing infrastructure, including Parramatta Station, Westfield Parramatta, Parramatta Park, and the Church Street dining precinct.

The remaining apartments form part of a limited release secured by Equitifund, following the sale of the majority of residences before and shortly after completion.

The regulatory environment around NSW apartment construction has changed considerably since the defect cases that reshaped public discussion around the sector. For purchasers, however, regulation is only one part of the equation. The ability to investigate a building's history, review its strata position and, where possible, inspect what has actually been delivered remains central to making an informed apartment purchase.

At The Lennox, its completed status provides that opportunity before contracts are signed, while Strata Surety adds a financial backstop against special levies beyond the protections already provided under NSW strata law.

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Joel Robinson

Buying with confidence: What NSW apartment buyers should check beyond the defect headlines

Too often, heritage buildings become the podium for a contemporary tower. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/623-collins-607-623-collins-street-melbourne-vic-3000">623 Collins</a>, <a>Sterling Global</a> challenged its design team to reverse that process.

The brief to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> was deliberately simple: "Don't design around the heritage. Design from it." It became the philosophy behind a project that draws inspiration not only from two landmark heritage buildings, but from Collins Street itself, a street layered with architectural history and civic significance.

That philosophy has shaped one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a> CBD's most considered residential projects, where the 1924 State Savings Bank and neighbouring Batman's Hill Hotel have become the architectural foundation for 623 Collins rather than remnants preserved beneath a new development.

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Rather than approaching the site as a blank canvas, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sterling-global">Sterling Global</a> saw the existing buildings as the beginning of the story.

"Sites like this rarely become available," the developer said.

"623 Collins wasn't simply an opportunity to develop a prominent CBD site. It was an opportunity to restore and reimagine one of Melbourne's important heritage landmarks while contributing to the continued evolution of Collins Street. For us, the existing buildings weren't constraints. They were the beginning of the story."

Instead of mimicking the ornate heritage architecture, Plus Studio studied the proportions, rhythm and craftsmanship of the original buildings before translating those characteristics into a contemporary 42-storey tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372748]

"The brief challenged us to create a contemporary landmark that respected Melbourne's architectural history without becoming nostalgic," Plus Studio said.

"Rather than mimicking heritage, we sought to understand its proportions, rhythm and material language before translating those qualities into a distinctly contemporary architectural expression."

The practice says the State Savings Bank and Batman's Hill Hotel became the project's primary source of inspiration, allowing the heritage buildings and contemporary architecture to exist "in conversation rather than contrast." Generous planted terraces further soften the transition between old and new, creating elevated green spaces while reinforcing the dialogue between the restored podium and the contemporary tower.

That dialogue continues throughout the interiors, where Melbourne designer Fiona Lynch developed a material palette inspired by the idea of alchemy, balancing contrasting materials that reference both the Neo-Grec detailing of the original bank and contemporary urban living. The result is a series of spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

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The project will deliver 316 residences across four collections, Heirloom, Signature, Reserve and the Penthouse Collection, with each responding differently to its position within the building, from the restored heritage podium through to the upper levels of the tower. The Heirloom Residences retain defining heritage elements including original heritage windows, generous proportions and high ceilings, while the tower introduces contemporary homes with expansive layouts and elevated views.

Amenities have likewise been designed to support long-term city living rather than short-stay convenience. Residents will have access to concierge services, wellness facilities including a pool, cold plunge, sauna, steam room and gym, alongside private lounges, entertaining spaces and dedicated resident clubs.

Sterling Global says that approach is resonating with buyers seeking permanence rather than novelty.

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According to the sales team, purchasers are looking for enduring architecture, generous floorplans, heritage character and long-term value, with many commenting that 623 Collins "doesn't feel like another apartment development" because of the way the architecture has been curated around the site's history.

Situated on the prominent corner of Collins and Spencer streets, the project occupies one of Melbourne's most recognisable gateway sites, marking the western entrance to the city's best-known street. For Sterling Global, it also reflects a broader shift in city-making.

"Rather than maximising development yield, the project embraces adaptive reuse as a design philosophy, allowing heritage to inform architecture, interiors and the overall resident experience," the developer said.

"The result is a building that feels uniquely connected to Melbourne."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145324]

How Sterling Global designed 623 Collins from Melbourne's history

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

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Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

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Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

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A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

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The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

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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The mortgage market rebounded strongly in February on the back of increased levels of consumer confidence and more attractive fixed and variable mortgage rates, according to the latest RP Data Mortgage Index.
The index has surged over the past eight weeks reaching 100.7 points as of March 10 – its highest reading since August 2009, also the last time the cash rate was at 3%.
The index tracks mortgage activity from 90% of the residential mortgage sector and correlates strongly with ABS housing finance data.
More than a month ahead of ABS housing finance data – January housing finance figures are out tomorrow – it is a lead indicator of demand for residential mortgages.
<img alt="rpdatamortgagemarch12one" height="207" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/rpdatamortgagemarch12one.gif">
<img alt="rpdatamortgagemarch12two" height="263" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/rpdatamortgagemarch12two.gif">
RP Data’s head of corporate affairs Craig Mackenzie said the latest reading of the index highlights the extent of new market activity between the traditionally slow month of January and February. 
“In seasonally adjusted terms, the index increased from 76.9 to 78.1, foreshadowing a strong result for February when the housing finance data is released by the ABS in mid-April. 
“Of greater significance is the fact that the raw Index value of 100.7 over the 28 days to March 10 was the highest since September 2009, which was a point in time when market activity was very strong, underpinned by high levels of first homebuyer activity stimulated by low interest rates and the First Homebuyer Grant Boost. 
“This is supported by the fact that the average number of activity events across RP Data’s platforms per client was the highest since August 2009. 
“This suggests mortgage market activity has rebounded strongly in February after the post-Christmas lull, driven by increased levels of consumer confidence, attractive mortgage interest rates (both fixed and variable) driving strong refinancing activity and improved investor demand,” Mackenzie said.
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Mortgage activity rises to highest point since August 2009: RP Data

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Many Australians are comfortable with using debt to fund investments like a rental property, but financial commentator Paul Clitheroe says they shouldn’t let the prospect of negative gearing draw them into an investment that doesn’t stand on its own merits.
"Tax benefits should be seen as icing on the cake, but a tax deduction alone is not a good enough reason to invest," the veteran investment adviser suggests.
Clitheroe says it’s the sort of debt he calls ‘effective debt’ as it can be a useful tool for building personal wealth.
He says the problem is that many people become irrationally excited about the tax savings of negative gearing.
"Let’s be quite clear on this – a loss on an investment may reduce your tax, but it is still a loss, and the whole point of investing is to make money and build wealth.
"Yet I often hear people justify a dud investment with the claim 'but it's a tax deduction'."
Clitheroe says the bottom line is that tax breaks should never be the main motivation to invest.
"If an asset is only generating a return of 4% and you’re paying 6% interest on the underlying loan, the investment is not building your wealth.
"Over time it will do little more than deplete your wealth unless it is also providing decent capital growth over time."  
The ipac executive says an additional pitfall of gearing was assuming the investment will generate sufficient income to meet the loan repayments.
"This can be a dangerous assumption because it doesn’t always happen as rental properties inevitably experience periods of vacancy, and the cash flow that may have made a significant contribution to the loan repayments can quickly diminish or dry up altogether."
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.paulsmoney.com.au/blog/paul-clitheroe">On his blog</a>, Clitheroe details how gearing means borrowing to invest.
"Used wisely, gearing can beef up your investment returns and allow investors to purchase high value assets they wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford, like a rental property. "An investment is said to be ‘negatively geared’ when the costs of owning the asset, including interest on the loan used to buy it, outweigh the returns it generates.
"For example if a rental property delivers annual rent worth $20,000, but its running expenses including mortgage interest come to $30,000  each year, it is negatively geared to the tune of $10,000 annually.
"This figure, which represents a loss, can usually be claimed on tax, and this is where the appeal of negative gearing lies. "The problem is that many people become irrationally excited about the tax savings of negative gearing."
ipac is one of Australia’s largest financial advisory firms with more than 200 staff, and offices around Australia. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of the AMP group.
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Paul Clitheroe warns against negative gearing for just the tax deductions

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The Chinese developer Greenland Group has secured Sydney’s tallest apartment tower project after it bought the Sydney Water Board site from Brookfield Asset Management for a reported $100 million.
The Canadian company paid just over $140 million for the old Water Board site in 2007 securing approval for the $200 million development 
The site occupies half a city block with three street frontages in the emerging residential precinct at 115 Bathurst Street, which has <a href="/news">stage one development approval</a> for more than 400 apartments over 60 levels, and 11 basement levels of car parking.
<img alt="kaanfinch1" height="885" width="241" src="/images/stories/2013/03/kaanfinch1.jpg">
The tower’s height of 240 metres would just pip Meriton Apartments’ 230?-metre World Tower.
The acquisition reportedly through CBRE agent David Milton included the heritage-listed former Sydney Water Board building at 339 Pitt Street which The Australian Financial Review speculates could become a $75 million hotel as Greenland owns and operates a substantial network in China and Europe.
Greenland is one of Shanghai’s largest state-owned enterprises with projects in about 65 mainland cities.
It focuses on extra-high landmark buildings, including three listed as the top 10 highest worldwide.
Melbourne has been the preferred place for the bulk of Chinese developer interest with consultant Kevin Stanley writing on Property Observer that the Chinese component of the offshore developer trend in Australia comprises 17 projects of the 58 presently monitored.
"Interestingly, of these Chinese-backed projects, 74% by apartment numbers are in Melbourne," <a target="_blank" href="/news">he wrote</a>.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment">download our free eBook. </a> The eBook is also available for<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook"> free download in Chinese.</a>
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High achieving Chinese developer belated push into Sydney takes the Water Board site

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The belief that high times may be returning to the Melbourne property market may have been taken a little too literally by two Epping estate agents who have been charged with a number of drug-related offences after rental properties they manage were allegedly used to grow hydroponic marijuana.
Following raids last week, two directors and the joint owners of Barry Plant Epping have been charged by Victoria Police after the discovery of hydroponic setups at residential properties in Epping, Wollert, South Morang and Mill Park.
Twenty-five properties managed by Barry Plant Epping were allegedly used for the marijuana-growing operations. So far Whittlesea Crime Investigation Unit detectives have executed 16 warrants and located about 3,000 cannabis plants as part of an ongoing investigation.
According to the Herald Sun, the alleged elaborate drug labs were set up at a cost of more than $660,000.
Five western suburbs men allegedly rented the homes since November and cultivated the crops.
Barry Plant chief executive Mike McCarthy said he was ''shocked and dismayed'' at alleged activities of the two directors adding that the real estate group operated independently of the Epping franchise.
The two directors charged are not employed by Barry Plant, but could lose their franchising licence with the group if the alleged offences are proven.
McCarthy said Barry Plant had taken immediate steps to contact the property owners whose properties had been turned into drug labs.
He added that the two men have professed their innocence and are co-operating with Barry Plant head office.
“Nothing like this has occurred in our history. These are serious charges and everyone in our group, from head office right through our 82 franchises, is shocked and dismayed," McCarthy said in a statement on Saturday.
Victorian police said a 52-year-old Greenvale man and a 52-year-old Lalor man have been charged with aid/abett cultivate and traffic a large commercial quantity of drugs. A 52-year-old Epping man has been charged with a number of counts of cultivate a commercial quantity of drugs. Five western suburbs men have been charged with separate counts of cultivate and traffic commercial quantity of drugs. A 36-year-old Thomastown man has been released pending further enquiries.
Last December, Property Observer reported on trouble for an Adelaide tenant after <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/south-australia/pot-plants-in-real-estate-ads-bring-adelaide-police-to-the-open-for-inspection/2012121358447">photos allegedly showing cannabis growing in two pot plants</a> in the backyard of a Henley Beach South house were inadvertently included in a real estate ad.
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Barry Plant Epping estate agents charged over rental property marijuana crops

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The US retail giant Costco has secured planning approval for its next store in Australia.
A $40 million Costco outlet at Casula in the Sydney's southwest has been approved and will include a 14,000-square-metre Beech Road wholesale and retail warehouse.
Costco has three stores open in Australia: one in Melbourne’s Docklands, one in the Sydney suburb of Auburn and one alongside Canberra Airport.
The group plans further projects at Ringwood in Melbourne and at North Lakes in Brisbane.
Big-box retailing is in full swing in Australia, with Property Observer reporting in January that the local arm of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/australian-costco-gets-%2450-million-boost-and-turns-its-first-profit/2013013059048">bulk buying group Costco received yet another $50 million</a> from its parent company in order to fund further expansion after reporting its first profit.
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Casula in Sydney's south-west to get its Costco

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 327 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of March 9. The clearance rate was 73%. <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf"> Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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APM's 327 Sydney auction results show 73% clearance rate

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In the wake of natural disasters, nearly one in four Queenslanders are now fixing their home loan rate, while nationally demand for cheaper fixed-rate home loans is also rising, according to Mortgage Choice.
During February, fixed-rate home loans were most popular in Queensland, where demand reached 23.05% of all new Mortgage Choice loan approvals.
“Following the spate of natural disasters the sunshine state has endured over the past few years, in comparison to other states it isn’t surprising to see more borrowers in Queensland choose the peace of mind offered by fixed-rate loans,” says Mortgage Choice spokesperson Belinda Williamson.
Nationally, the proportion of borrowers fixing their home loan rate increased from 16.3% in January to 18.4% in February as all the major banks cut their fixed-rate home loan offerings to include a two-year fixed rate home loan <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/monday-feb-25-feature-the-fix-is-on-for-bank-mortgage-rates-should-you-take-the-deal/2013022159504">"with a four in front of it"</a> - at 4.99%.
At the other end of the spectrum, Victorians were the least likely to take out a fixed-rate loan in February, with only 11.08% of the state’s loan approvals for fixed rates.
“This may suggest that Victorians are the least conservative state and are tipping further variable rate cuts to come,” says Williamson.
Fixed-rate loans are also popular in NSW and the ACT, accounting for nearly one in five loans approved by Mortgage Choice mortgage brokers in February.
Not surprisingly, ongoing discounted rate loans – where the variable rate is discounted for the life of the loan, usually in exchange for an annual fee – were the most popular products over February, accounting for 42% of all loan approvals nationally followed by basic variable and standard variable loans, which both accounted for 17% of loan approvals.
According to mortgage comparison website RateCity.com.au’s database of more than 100 lenders, the average three-year fixed rate is now 5.47% – the lowest level on record. The average standard variable rate is currently 0.42 percentage points higher at 5.89 percent.
Mortgage comparison website Mozo.com.au says fixed rate home loans are at an all-time low with an average fixed rate of 4.99% - 60 basis points lower than the average 5.6% variable rate, according to its database of home loans.
A spokesperson for Mozo says there would need to be another three to four cash rate cuts from the RBA for variable rates to fall as low as fixed rate.
Mozo visitor interest in fixed rates has tripled since December.
These are the lowest advertised variable and fixed mortgage rates based on listings on mortgage comparison websites <a href="https://www.ratecity.com.au/" target="_blank">ratecity.com.au</a>, <a href="https://mozo.com.au/" target="_blank">Mozo.com.au</a>,  <a href="https://www.infochoice.com.au/" target="_blank">infochoice.com.au</a> and <a href="https://www.homeloanfinder.com.au/">homeloanfinder.com.au</a> as of March 11:
Where the headline rate is the same, the lender with the lowest comparison rate gets preference.
Lowest variable rate offerings:
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="470"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="134" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="116" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="134" valign="top">
State Custodians
</td>
<td width="124" valign="top">
State Custodians Peak Performance Offset (Refinance Only)
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
4.99%
</td>
<td width="116" valign="top">
5.38%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="134" valign="top">
Easy Street
</td>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Honeymoon Home Loan Special
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
4.99%
</td>
<td width="116" valign="top">
5.70%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="134" valign="top">
Loans.com.au
</td>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Blackboard Special
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.09%
</td>
<td width="116" valign="top">
5.11%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Lowest one-year fixed-rate offerings
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="470"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Quick Direct
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
One year fixed
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
4.79%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
5.46%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
UBank
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
UHomeLoan for refinance
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
4.83%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
5.03%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Loans.com.au
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Dream Loan Express
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
4.89%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
5.28%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Lowest three-year fixed-rate offerings
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="470"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="96" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="111" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="131" valign="top">
ME Bank
</td>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Member Package SMHL Standard Home Loan
</td>
<td width="96" valign="top">
4.99%
</td>
<td width="111" valign="top">
5.49%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Teachers Mutual Bank
</td>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Teachers Fixed Option Loan
</td>
<td width="96" valign="top">
4.99%
</td>
<td width="111" valign="top">
5.90%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="131" valign="top">
eMoney
</td>
<td width="131" valign="top">
Pro pack 75
</td>
<td width="96" valign="top">
5.00%
</td>
<td width="111" valign="top">
5.51%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
*A comparison rate includes both the interest rate and the fees and charges relating to a loan, combined into a single percentage figure.
For information on refinancing, watch our free webinar <a href="/news">The Do's and Don’ts of Refinancing Your Existing Home Loan ... and How to Avoid Unnecessary Hurdles</a>
 
 
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Anxious Queenslanders fix their home loans, while Victorians don't: guide to cheapest variable and fixed rates

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The number of Sydney houses and units listed for sale online has fallen by 13.3% over the past year leading an overall 1.1% annual decline in capital city listings, according to new February figures from SQM Research.
There were 25,857 properties listed for sale in Sydney in February compared with 29,810 a year ago, while nationally listings have fallen from 345,543 to 341,662.
However, Melbourne listings have risen by 5.3% over the same period to 43,621 – the biggest annual rise of all capital cities - and there are now nearly 18,000 more properties listed for sale in Melbourne than in Sydney.
This suggests that talk of a recovery in the Melbourne housing market may be premature given the level of stock that still needs to be absorbed while the Sydney market appears to be strengthening.
Listings were up 1.9% over February but SQM says this was to be expected and “as the seasonal pause in the real estate world comes to a complete end and the property market begins to pick up again”.
“Most capital cities only experienced modest increases, with Canberra and Sydney being the only exceptions, climbing by 8.5% and 10.2% respectively during February,” says SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher.
“A year-on-year comparison however, reveals that stock listings have decreased since this time in 2012, falling by 1.1% on a national level and it is the opinion of SQM Research that this result is far more telling of the current direction of the property market than the month to month comparison due to seasonality.”
Year-on-year figures indicate that all capital cities apart from Melbourne and Canberra (+ 2.1%) recorded declines in the number of properties listed for sale.
Apart from Sydney, strong yearly declines in listings were also recorded in Darwin (-9.2%) with more modest declines recorded in Perth (-3.8%) and Adelaide (-3.2%) and Brisbane (-2%).
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Sydney property listings down 13.3% over past year indicating improving housing market: SQM Research

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Last week Michael Yardney re-published his rundown of Australia’s market cycles from the 1980s onwards.  The premise was to calm any ‘would-be’ property investors into recognising the various historical trends that traditionally affect the ‘ebb and flow’ of Australia’s real estate market.
If you’re a regular reader of Property Observer, you will have no doubt had your fill of where each individual state sits on the ‘property clock.’ It’s an arguably overused term to provide a fairly limited theory for our frequent ‘boom and bust’ cycles.
Question why property prices are so high and you’ll receive a basic lesson in real estate agent property economics – the top of which will be supply vs demand. 'We have a growing population and not enough homes'... and on and on it goes.
Indeed, various commentators have already extrapolated out two months worth of housing data to ‘conclude’ a rise of '10%-plus' over the course of 2013.
Certainly, if you want to ignite an emotional debate, housing is right up there with politics and religion.  Since history began, it has remained an integral part of the most valuable asset man desired, fought over, possessed and in many cases died for: land.
Whether it be a means to make a living through effective cultivation, a form of wielding control over a resident population, a place to build the modern-day castle, or simply a speculative investment, it’s the most valuable commodity mankind owns – a valuable and finite commodity that becomes ever more so as the population expands.
Indeed, property rights are a foundational component of a capitalist economy, and under our current system of ownership, governments profit nicely from the advantage.  In Australia, state government revenues from property-related taxes alone equate to around 23% of the total balance sheet – hence why ‘stamp duty addiction’ and the consequential need to incentivise buyers to keep transaction figures high has such a strong hold.
However, no-one should be under the impression that property prices are high due to demand factors from home buyers. Prior to the GFC, following a global 'borrowing' shopping spree of cheap credit, Australia’s ‘too big to fail four’ were amongst the world’s most heavily exposed to the residential real estate market, with a grand total of 59% of loans offered to this sector alone.
Australia’s banks are as ‘pinned’ in their reliance on the ever-expanding growth of our resident population’s desire to borrow and buy, as is everyone else who has a hand in the pie.
In this ‘boom and bust’ merry-go-round culture, we’ve simply borrowed more to pay more, the vast majority of which has gone into residential housing – inflating prices disproportionately.
It’s a somewhat inevitable conclusion – made all the worse due to restrictive planning laws which have failed to accommodate for substantial capital city population growth – that the ease of credit has advantaged those at the beginning of its issuance, to the expense of those at the end.
Baby boomers who got in at the start of the ‘lending boom’ have certainly profited over those who are now at the ‘sticky’ peak, where prices have already had their ‘golden years’ of growth and the big profits have been made.
Mortgage debt – the largest component of all debt in Australia – is aptly living up to its original French meaning for the first-time buyers paying inflated prices, that being a “death contract.” However, as long as those purchasing are able to meet their repayments, the banks can continue to create money ‘selling’ their loans - backed up by overly generous wholesale funding guarantees – and there’s little incentive to improve the situation for a growing minority sitting at the bottom of the pile.
Albeit, there’s no doubt the property market has once again started to simmer – most agencies are reporting a spike of active enquiry – some declaring levels equal to those seen back in 2009 during which the federal first-home-owner boost was fuelling a post-GFC boom.
 
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RBA governor Glenn Stevens also conceded as such, stating that residential investment seems to be “slowly increasing (Australia wide), with higher dwelling prices and rental yields.”
Share markets have trended higher, and there’s been a marginal uplift in retail spending, all of which filters through to the property market. Confidence that we’re on the ‘up and up’ again, combined with ‘cheap credit’ simply adds fuel to the fire.
AFG is once again reporting a ‘record’ month of borrowing with their February figures up 5.3% on this time last year (albeit with ‘subdued’ first-home buyer activity). Australia’s largest mortgage broker was reporting increasing activity as far back as <a target="_blank" href="/news">February 2012</a>, fuelled by a strong investment sector (which currently makes up roughly 42% of the residential market).
As Michael Matusik pointed out a few days ago, "Australian’s borrowed $200 billion to buy residential property last year – 7% less than the market peak in 07/08."
In Melbourne, clearance rates are up, the auction market is bubbling – and if ever there was an ‘out on the street’ example of the ‘boom and bust’ physiology in motion, it can be viewed in the inner suburban streets of Melbourne on any bumper ‘super Saturday.’
By their very nature, auction sales have played a significant part in igniting golden periods of rapid inflation in the established residential sector. Bidders evidently have their confidence underpinned when they see others competing for the same property – budgets tend to be pushed, and the under-bidder who walks away with that gut-wrenching feeling of empty disappointment is the one who’ll stretch their finances for the next auction they attend.
As buyers see prices go past expectation in an open and arguably transparent atmosphere, there is a feeling of ‘act now or miss out’ – it’s a feature of any rising market, whether stocks or property, and the build in intensity is rapid.
As an example, if two buyers are going head to head during an auction – and the winning bidder exceeds by just $1,000 – there is another buyer - the under-bidder - who has a similar budget and, with a determination not to lose twice, needs little persuasion to bid to the same level (or higher) on another property.
If you want a really good demonstration of this scenario, congregate around ‘investment-grade’ properties in the popular markets of Elwood and St Kilda (as an example). Whilst the general consensus remains that emotional home buyers push the market, they don’t shine a light to a couple of investors going ‘head-to-head’ for a negatively-geared asset, which will produce a fairly robust rental income and decent depreciation schedule to boot.
Albeit – do not mistake this for a market recovery – once again, it’s all confined to the established sector. Everyone is effectively fighting over the same pool of existing dwellings in a never ending game of 'musical chairs.' We’re simply paying higher prices for an ageing stock of second hand homes.
Indeed, there’ll be no housing recovery until we have a construction recovery. As the first ABS building approvals update for 2013 indicated, approvals in January fell for a second consecutive month, lingering back below the 13,000 mark.
Spokesperson for the HIA, Harley Dale, commented that even with a rise of 3.3% in detached house approval, overall approvals for this sector are still down by 1% over the three months to January 2013.
Fletcher Building LTD is also flagging the weight of the issue, stressing that the ongoing weakness in Australia's new housing sector is likely to last until the end of the year. Along with the others, they are crying for lower rates and a return of incentives for first-home buyers.
Last week, the federal government’s housing supply council revealed the nation faces an "an impending very substantial fall in home ownership". The report goes onto state that “baby boomers will be the last generation to live the home-ownership dream”, with the so called ‘trend’ towards renting a “natural response to higher house prices.”
A younger generation are now being told the only way they can get into the market is by either tapping into mum and dad’s equity, or living in the family home longer and perhaps getting a foot through the door as an investor, rather than an owner-occupier.
All in all, so long as the profits keep rolling in, there is no incentive whatsoever to address these concerns. The powers that be can keep their ears covered, whilst singing loudly to any forthcoming pain which may be experienced by a future generation that 'no longer can'.
Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition.
 
 
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catherinecashmore-6LXia3pPQj

There will be no housing recovery until there is a construction recovery: Catherine Cashmore

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As we predicted, two Reserve Bank of Australia meetings have passed and the cash rate has not budged from 3%.
One only has to read the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2013/mr-13-04">statement by RBA governor</a> to see: "In Australia, most indicators available for this meeting suggest that growth was close to trend over 2012, led by very large increases in capital spending in the resources sector, while some other sectors experienced weaker conditions. Looking ahead, the peak in resource investment is approaching. As it does, there will be more scope for other areas of demand to strengthen."
I stated in previous posts that I can’t see the official cash rate going below 3% and I now lean towards <a target="_blank" href="/news" title="no rate cut in April as HSBC pencils in rate hike towards end of the year. ">no rate cut in April as HSBC pencils in rate hike towards end of the year.</a>
<a target="_blank" href="/news" title="no rate cut in April as HSBC pencils in rate hike towards end of the year. "></a>HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham says low inflation (currently well within the the RBA’s target of 2% to 3% band at 2.2%) means an easing bias still remained and the RBA could cut rates if necessary, but he highlighted the following comment by RBA governor Glenn Stevens in the monetary policy statement, which suggests a brighter outlook.
"During 2012, there was a significant easing in monetary policy. Though the full impact of this will still take more time to become apparent, there are signs that the easier conditions are having some of the expected results."
Australia is fortunate that the RBA has a positive cash rate, with which they can act where necessary. This is in contrast to other central banks that have no room to stimulate their economies given their cash rates are stuck on zero.
The debate has now turned to <a title="major banks can and should cut variable rates independently of RBA: Bernie Fraser" href="/news" target="_blank">major banks can and should cut variable rates independently of RBA: Bernie Fraser</a>, which I don’t believe will happen as it is becoming increasingly obvious that the big banks are doing private sweetheart deals with clients.
<a title="Borrowers should not be paying more than 6% on their home loan: RBA charts" href="/news" target="_blank">Borrowers should not be paying more than 6% on their home loan: RBA charts</a>. Further proof is that <a title="one in four looking to split their home loan between fixed and variable: Loan Market" href="/news" target="_blank">one in four looking to split their home loan between fixed and variable: Loan Market</a>. The mortgage-broking group says that over the past four weeks 27% of their inquiries have been from borrowers wanting to split a portion of their loan between fixed and variable. This is a 70% increase on the number of borrowers looking to split their home loan a year ago. On that basis it would be reasonable to suggest that we can expect this number to increase further in the months to come.
<img alt="simeonmarch11one" height="259" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/simeonmarch11one.jpg">
<img alt="simeonmarch11two" height="346" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/simeonmarch11two.jpg">
<a title="Economic optimism ‘unjustified’: Westpac economist" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Economic-optimism-unjustified-Westpac-economist-pd20130306-5JMT5?OpenDocument&amp;src=hp30" target="_blank">Economic optimism ‘unjustified’: Westpac economist</a> is an amazing commentary, in which Westpac Banking Corp Ltd's senior London economist James Shugg says: “We have a situation where $US 85 billion ($A82.6 billion) a month is being pumped into the US economy, interest rates are at record lows and the economy is only growing at 2%.”
<a title="Canberra facing long – term budget deficits: report " href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Aust-facing-long-term-budget-deficits-report-pd20130304-5FRNS?OpenDocument&amp;src=tnb" target="_blank">Canberra facing long – term budget deficits: report </a> states that “Australia faces deficits until 2025 without policy changes, as modelling for the Minerals Council of Australia shows the impact of the removal of higher commodities prices and changes in the economic cycle on the budget.” One only has to see how this proposition is fractured due to massive bungles by Wayne Swan and Treasury (<a title="Five fractures in Swan’s treasured friendship" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/swan-treasurer-politics-parkinson-khmlani-pd20130304-5FS8L?OpenDocument&amp;src=sph&amp;src=rot" target="_blank">Five fractures in Swan’s treasured friendship</a>). It should be noted that Australia’s public debt – which has grown 150% since 2007 –  currently sits at $265 billion, third only to Iceland and Ireland.
To put this into perspective, <a title="BCA warns Labor that its budget plan is failing " href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Labors-budget-plan-failing-business-says-5HH66?OpenDocument&amp;src=hp3" target="_blank">BCA warns Labor that its budget plan is failing </a>– the federal government risks damaging economic growth if it stoops to ad hoc new taxes and revenue grabs in this year’s budget. This would be further explained in the latest edition of <a title="CEO Pulse " href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/full-coverage?openview&amp;restricttocategory=ceo+pulse" target="_blank">CEO Pulse </a>where the CEO’s scorecard for the government’s performance in managing the economy is up slightly to 3.3 out of 10. A woeful score!
In the March 2012 quarter Mosman houses peaked at 144; now we see volumes are already declining to 103. It is just not Mosman – the pattern is common for all of our demographic markets.
Source: Domain Property Monitors
<h4>MOSMAN – 2088</h4>
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 144 • Number of houses on the market last week – 105 • Number of houses on the market this week – 103
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 –115 • Number of apartments on the market last week – 76 • Number of apartments on the market this week – 76
<h4></h4>
<h4>CREMORNE – 2090</h4>
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 19 • Number of houses on the market last week – 17 • Number of houses on the market this week – 17
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 – 25 • Number of apartments on the market last week – 20 • Number of apartments on the market this week – 15
<h4>NEUTRAL BAY – 2089</h4>
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 20 • Number of houses on the market last week – 15 • Number of houses on the market this week – 14
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 – 65 • Number of apartments on the market last week – 39 • Number of apartments on the market this week – 43
For this week’s sales in Cremorne real estate, Cremorne Point real estate, Mosman real estate, Beauty Point real estate, Clifton Gardens real estate, Balmoral real estate, Neutral Bay real estate, Cammeray real estate, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/">click here</a>.
For this week’s open for inspections, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/sales-list/open_times_sales/">click here</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/simeonmarch11three.jpg" width="470" height="245" alt="simeonmarch11three">
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.afr.com/p/business/companies/rba_quietly_increases_banks_bailout_ksLcB6WlebkzfQ89p3pPAK" title="RBA quietly increases banks’ bailout buffer">RBA quietly increases banks’ bailout buffer</a> is a fascinating read for those intrigued by the new Basel III requirements.
The only institution that I see defaulting at this point of time is the federal government on its latest spending promises. The CEO’s competency score of 3.3 out of 10 says it all.
Robert Simeon is a director of <a title="RWM" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Richardson  Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay </a>and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. He has also been writing real estate blog <a title="Virtual Realty News" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally.
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