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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Five of Australia’s eight capital cities have shown continued growth in their housing markets in February, following the mild recovery of 2012, according to February’s RP Data Rismark home value index.
The February 2013 figure shows a slight slowing in the capital dwelling values with a  rise of 0.3% following a 1.2% jump in January.
RP Data says Melbourne, Australia’s second largest housing market, largely drove the monthly result with dwelling values up 1.5% with even stronger growth at Canberra (up 1.9%) and Darwin (up 2.3%).
But Melbourne still remains in negative territory over the year.
There was a limited rise in dwelling values in Sydney, up just 0.1% in February, but up 2.7% over the year.
Click to enlarge
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Results for the past quarter have shown Hobart to be the best performing capital city with a 4.2% rise in values.
Darwin performed the weakest with a 2.5% decrease in property values, but showed the highest rental yields with a gross rental yield of 6.2% for houses and 6.3% for units.
 Melbourne showed the lowest rental yields with a 3.6% gross rental yield for houses and 4.4% for units.
 Sydney retained its mantle as the most expensive Australian city with a median dwelling price of $540,000, while Hobart proved to be the most affordable capital city with a median dwelling price of $310,000.
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Melbourne assists capital city home values record modest growth in February: RP Data Rismark

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Most Australian home owners expect the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to leave the official cash rate unchanged for a third consecutive month, according to a national survey conducted by mortgage broker Loan Market.
Asked what action the RBA would take at its March meeting, 53% of respondents anticipated the current cash rate to be maintained at 3%.
The Loan Market spokesman Paul Smith, said that home owners were well aware of the state of the Australian economy and the subsequent likelihood of rate cuts.
“Consumer confidence has been varied for some time but these survey results indicate that home owners are aware of the multitude of facts the RBA considers when it assess the cash rate and the impact it can have on their home loans and deposited savings,” he said.
A similar survey done in February showed 55% of home owners correctly predicted the RBA would leave rates unchanged.
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53% of home owners expect RBA cash rate to remain steady: Loan Market survey

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Dear Margaret
There is a very confusing and ongoing debate about houses and apartments which is quite confusing at times.
I need to ask you: in your opinion, which is a better investment and why?
Thanks in advance.
Regards
Opinder
 
This is an oft-asked question and, in my opinion, it shouldn’t be confusing at all!
Many investors start out with the notion that they will consider buying an apartment (also known as flats or units) as there is a perception that they are cheaper and represent a more ‘entry level’ price.
Alternatively, it’s believed that because a freestanding house has land around it, and land appreciates while buildings depreciate, a house ultimately becomes worth more.
Both of these notions are actually based more on myth than fact, for a number of reasons.
Firstly, an apartment can often have hefty body corporate levies which can add considerably to the holding costs.  If we considered that ‘profit’ in a property is the difference between the purchase price (plus costs) plus holding costs, and the eventual sale price (less costs), then these levies can add considerably to the holding costs and eat into profits.  One could argue that a body corporate’s sinking fund is like a savings plan for eventual repairs and maintenance, the costs of which you would otherwise bear alone, however a portion of these fees are for the type of ongoing maintenance which you’d probably carry out yourself if it were your home alone.
Secondly, it’s not proving true that a house and land necessarily grows in value more quickly than an apartment, and if the myth that buildings depreciate were true where it relates to value growth, then we’d be seeing all apartments go backward in value while all houses grow. Buildings do depreciate for tax purposes, and they do get older, requiring repair and maintenance (this applies to both units and apartments), however for value purposes this depreciation is not necessarily evident.  It’s a fact that in some areas the houses grow better than the apartments and in others the apartments are the better performer.
And that brings me to my final point – it’s demand which ultimately drives growth, not the property type. Therefore, the only way to establish whether to buy an apartment or a house is to discover what kind of people live in the area, and their preferred choice of property type. In some areas, such as those where young, childless couples live, apartments are the bigger sellers, and in others, such as areas where family units are settling, it will be houses. It makes sense to realise that the property type most in demand will also be the property type which grows better in value!
This is why property type choice should never be the first thing you do.  You should never decide to buy, say an apartment, and then go looking for the best area. You should always work out the best area to buy, discover the largest demographic in that area, and buy a property which suits that demographic. Buying a property which is not the preferred choice in any area is one of the biggest reasons investors do not get the outcomes they would like in terms of growth.
Margaret Lomas is a best-selling author and writes and hosts the popular Property Success With Margaret Lomas and heads up the panel onYour Money, Your Call, both on Sky News. She is the founder of <a href="https://destiny.com.au/dotnetnuke/en-au/home.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Destiny</a>.
Have a property question? <a href="mailto:askmargaret@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">Ask Margaret!</a>
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Ask Margaret: Are houses or units the better investment?

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The Coles merchandise director John Durkan and his wife Bernadette have bought Greystones, the 1914 Brighton house.
It was bought from the shoulder and elbow orthopaedic surgeon Simon Bell and his wife Jennifer Coghlan-Bell.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/greystones-the-1914-brighton-house-listed/2012100356935">Listed with a price guide of $7.3 million plus</a>, it is understood Kay &amp; Burton agents Ian Jackson and Stewart Lopez secured around $7.5 million for the Park Street offering.
Set amid established English gardens, the 1914 six-bedroom, five-bathroom house sits on 2,219 square metres.
It has been home to the Bells for the past 20 years.
The house comes with a large cellar, sauna, studio with a gymnasium and a rooftop retreat that offers views across the bay to the city skyline.
John Durkan was at Safeway before the British shopping industry expert was recruited to Coles by Coles's chief executive, Ian McLeod.
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Greystones at Brighton sells to Coles merchandising boss John Durkan 

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Is property still a good investment? The last few flat years in our property markets and concerns about the potential for future capital growth has some investors worried.
They are wondering what’s ahead for property, especially as they’re hearing some commentators suggesting we’re in unprecedented times.
You just have to look back further
The problem is these people don’t have a big enough rear vision mirror. Some of us with grey hair see clear parallels with the past.
So I thought that today I’d delve into my memory and see what we can learn from previous cycles to help you understand where our markets are heading.
But before I do, I’d like to remind you that even though we’re currently in the flatter stage of the property cycle, the bottom line is that as a long-term investment, property is hard to beat.
I remember reading a research report from Massey University suggesting that Australian residential property has been the best performing asset class over the long haul. The study dated back to 1920 and showed that property produced an average return of around 15% per annum (combining rental income and price gains) over all those years.
These figures don't really reflect how good property is as an investment as they don't take into account the power of leverage and the higher returns you can obtain on your own funds. When you factor this in, property far outperforms all other asset classes over the long term.
The market moves in cycles
But don’t get me wrong, while there's little doubt that property is a potent long-term wealth-builder, it clearly goes through cycles just as other investment classes do. This means the reported high long-term average returns take into account periods of very high growth and also periods when property went nowhere for a few years.
A good example of that is those who bought a home or invested in the Sydney property market at its peak in 2003 would have seen the value of their properties stagnate, or even fall, over the next five years or so.
But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s go back in time…
Has this happened before?
Back in the early 1980s house prices across most of the capital cities were stagnating for a couple of years. Melbourne's median house price languished at about $50,000 from 1980 to 1983 then grew steadily but unspectacularly before really taking off in 1987.
In Sydney, the median house price reached about $80,000 in 1981 and stayed there for the next four years. Perth prices were falling in 1983, and Brisbane house prices were going nowhere after a year or two of 25% returns in the early 80s. It took until 1987 before these property markets all began to boom again.
In Adelaide, there was a major rise in property prices between 1982 and 1984, and then growth slowed, before values only grew around 5% for most of the 90s until 2000.
After crashing in 1990, property prices in Sydney and Melbourne stayed flat until 1995 and then slowly started moving upwards.
It wasn't until 2000 that prices in Brisbane finally took off after a decade of growing at 5% or less per year. Interestingly this was despite a huge influx of immigrants from other states coming to the Sunshine State. And obviously they’ve been falling over the last few years again.
In Perth, a short recovery followed the boom and bust of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The market there ambled along, with annual returns at about 6% until its boom in the middle of last decade, where Perth's median property price overtook all capital cities other than Sydney. And then, of course, prices have fallen over the last few years and are still 4% below their peak of 2007.
And like all the other capital cities, Sydney also experienced a period of flat property prices after they peaked in late 2003 and didn’t start rising again until 2008.
What’s been a little different over the last few years is that property prices fell at much the same time in all our capital cities, and as you can see from the chart below, they are all still below their peaks of a few years ago.
So what’s the lesson?
In short, each state has its own property cycle and there are cycles within each cycle. Different areas, different prices points and different types of property have their own cycle.
Looking into these further, you’ll find that in each 10-year period there seems to be three or four years when the market is flat, three or four years of low capital growth, and a few years of strong price growth during the boom stage of the cycle.
Clearly property investors must be aware of and prepared for these cycles.
However, as we’ve learned over the last few years, it’s hard to remain positive in the middle of the flat period of the property cycle.
When you look at the property prices that prevailed 10 and 20 years ago and look at property prices today, it’s clear that property investment is a long-term play. You need to be patient as, over the long term, values in our major capital cities have doubled every seven to 10 years.
What are the factors behind these cycles?
It's the old story of supply and demand. Property prices are pushed up by the demand created by a healthy economy, high levels of employment, population movements caused by migration and immigration and positive market sentiment.
They are dragged down when the economy performs poorly, when interest rates rise, when employment and immigration figures fall, when supply exceeds demand and when those in the market are nervous about their wealth and their future.
Cycles are an inevitable part of any investment market and our property markets are behaving normally at present.
So what’s ahead for property?
The cycle is moving on. It always has. There is <a target="_blank" href="https://propertyupdate.com.au/2012-the-year-the-property-market-turned/">strong evidence</a> that our property markets bottomed in May last year.
Currently, the fundamentals are good for property. Our economy is performing well and interest rates are low and likely remain so for a while. Unemployment remains low, which means most Australians feel secure about their jobs.
The world’s economic problems are sorting themselves out, and the final piece to the puzzle – <a target="_blank" href="https://propertyupdate.com.au/the-final-piece-to-the-property-puzzle-has-fallen-into-place/">consumer confidence – is slowly returning</a>.
Most household budgets are in good shape as they’ve paid down their debts over the last few years. This puts them in a good position to get involved in property this year.
Some will just renovate or improve their homes. Others will take the next step and upgrade to a new home. And more first home buyers will get a foot on the property ladder pushed by higher rents and lower interest rates.
At the same time, strategic investors are looking at getting set for the next stage of the property cycle and more Baby Boomers are investing in property through their self-managed superannuation funds.
However, others will hold back at this early stage of the property cycle, waiting for more signs of certainty. Of course, while they are waiting, many will miss out on significant property price growth the strategic investors who get in early and buy counter-cyclically will enjoy.
What about affordability?
 
Every cycle I hear the cry: "Property prices are too high! They can't keep going up like that."
I remember it in the early 80s and then again in the late 80s when people said house prices just can't go up any more: "They are so high our children will never be able to afford a house."
But prices doubled over the next decade until they again said the same in 2003 as prices rose through the boom that started in 2001. Of course many are saying the same again now.
However, recent RBA and HIA-Commonwealth Bank stats disagree, suggesting housing is the most affordable it’s been in a decade.
Recently, economist Christopher Joye used the following graph in The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.afr.com/p/blogs/christopher_joye/housing_values_maintain_build_up_N2u1LtLLkNmHCKvZXOxlFJ">Australian Financial Review</a> to make the point that mortgage repayments as a share of our disposable income are the best they’ve been for a decade :
In summary
Our property markets are behaving normally as they work their way through their individual property cycles.
Within each state the property markets are fragmented – at different price points and geographically, but overall increasing consumer confidence is bringing homebuyers and investors back into the market.
Are you ready to exploit the property investment opportunities that will arise this year?
Michael Yardney is a director of <a href="https://www.metropole.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Metropole Property Strategists</a>, which creates wealth for its clients through independent, unbiased property advice and advocacy. He is best-selling author, one of Australia's leading experts in wealth creation through property and writes the <a href="https://propertyupdate.com.au/category/property-investment/" rel="nofollow">Property Investment Update</a> blog. Subscribe today and you'll receive a free video, The Golden Rules of Property Investment.
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What history can teach us about what’s ahead for property: Michael Yardney

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There are two methods of sale for residential property in Victoria: public auction and private sale.
Making a choice between the two is best done in conjunction with your real estate agent. After all, you have employed them to sell your home and they have developed a high degree of professional expertise from which you can benefit.
There are, however, some core features of each method that you need to be aware of.
Public auctions are held at an advertised time and place. This means the price you will receive for your property will be determined in a transparent manner by bids made in public at your auction.
A private sale is different. The price at which your property will be sold is determined by negotiation between your estate agent and potential buyers. The negotiations will take place in private
There is also another important difference between a private sale and a public auction of residential property.
If you sell privately, within three business days of signing a contract your buyer is allowed to change their mind, ‘cool-off’ and cancel the sale. But, if you put your property up for auction and it is sold in the three days leading up to, on the day of, or within three days after your public auction, your buyer cannot ‘cool-off’.
The use of auctions fluctuates in line with the market. At times when the market is not delivering strong price growth they comprise around 15 to 20% of all sales in the metropolitan area and when it is strong they can account for between 20 and 30%. Auctions are also used in regional areas, but on a very selective basis.
The sales method chosen differs across Melbourne. Auctions are more prevalent in the inner city than the outer suburbs. The REIV website has maps demonstrating this on a suburb by suburb basis allowing sellers to undertake some of their own research.
The overall state of demand in the auction market is generally measured though the clearance rate statistic and whilst it is a very useful guide it can’t replace attending an auction and watching the bidding if you are looking to buy or sell.
Enzo Raimondo is CEO of the <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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How to decide if you should sell your home by auction or private treaty: Enzo Raimondo

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Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House Australia's new One Central Park development in Sydney will feature hanging gardens designed by French architect and botanist Patrick Blanc.
<img alt="frasersmarch1one" height="602" width="350" src="/images/stories/2013/03/frasersmarch1one.jpg">
The garden will comprise 21 panels covering 1,120 square metres, and there are set to be 35,200 plants of 383 species used in the design. 
It is one of a growing number of vertical gardens in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/up-in-the-air-it-s-a-bird-it-s-a-plane-it-s-a-garden-as-residential-development-goes-green/2011062250531">Australia </a>and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/hanging-gardens-of-the-world/2011062350586">the world.</a>
<img alt="frasersmarch1two" height="522" width="350" src="/images/stories/2013/03/frasersmarch1two.jpg">
The project is well into its 28-month construction. 
{qtube vid:=SPJUcdaESsc&amp;feature}
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Architect and botanist Patrick Blanc talks about the hanging gardens at One Central Park

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The Lowy family has sold its 7% stake in Westfield Retail Trust worth $664 million as part of a strategy to diversify its investments globally.
Investment bank UBS sought buyers for 214.8 million Westfield Retail Trust units on behalf of Frank Lowy’s investment company, The Lowy Family Group.
The units in the shopping ­centre landlord were being offered at $3.09 each Thursday afternoon, a narrow 2.8% discount to Westfield Retail Trust’s $3.18 closing price.
As the largest shareholder in the Westfield Group, the Lowy family stressed its continuing commitment remained unchanged in the Westfield Group.
Westfield Group created WRT in 2010 with a stake in 47 Australian and New Zealand Westfield shopping centres  now worth around $13.5 billion.
The Lowy family statement said the sale was part of a "broader investment strategy to diversify its investments internationally.”
"As the largest shareholder in the Westfield Group, the Lowy family’s interest and continuing commitment remains unchanged.
"Through WDC, LFG retains a significant investment in Westfield’s superior shopping centre portfolio in Australia and New Zealand.”
The sale comes a day after its results.
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Lowy family secures Westfield Retail Trust buyers

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The Housing Industry Association new home sales report, a survey of Australia's largest volume builders, shows seasonally adjusted new home sales increased by 4.2% in January 2013.
It reflected a 4% increase in detached house sales and a 4.9% boost in multi-unit sales.
"It is a promising update to see the momentum of late 2012 carrying into the new year," said HIA chief economist, Harley Dale.
"Over the three months to January this year new home sales increased by 10%, although sales volumes were still 6.4% lower compared to the same period a year earlier."
"Sales of new detached houses have now increased over three consecutive months, a crucial improvement given the considerable weakness experienced through the majority of last year," said Harley Dale.
"Even now, the volume of detached house sales is not much more than half the long term average. Consequently there is a long way to go to see evidence that new home building will reach the levels the economy requires as the contribution from resources-related investment wanes."
In the month of January 2013 detached house sales increased by 9.1% in Victoria, 10.6% in South Australia, and 7.4% in Western Australia.
Sales fell by 1.3% in New South Wales and were down by 6% in Queensland.
Over the three months to January 2013 detached house sales increased by 23.7 % in New South Wales, 10.8% in Victoria, 13.2% in South Australia, and 7.6% in Western Australia.
Detached house sales fell by 3.1% over this three month period in Queensland.
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New home sales post fourth consecutive rise in January: HIA

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Lend Lease has confirmed it intends to sell its aged care business for $270 million to Australian Aged Care Partners, which is controlled by funds managed by Archer Capital.
Archer Capital Partner executive Ben Frewin said it had been evaluating investment opportunities in the aged care sector over the past three years.
Lend Lease will receive cash proceeds of $200 million plus a $70 million promissory note by the end of March this year.
Lend Lease’s aged care business owns and manages 30 aged care facilities with 2,338 beds under management across New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia.
There is also a development pipeline of 563 additional beds.
The business was acquired in the Primelife acquisition in 2009.
The Lend Lease chief executive officer Steve McCann said the aged care business was more closely aligned to healthcare services than property and was considered non-core for Lend Lease.
Australian Aged Care Partners will retain the current management team and all employees at each of the facilities.
David Armstrong will be appointed to the position of chief executive officer. David Armstrong is formerly the managing director and a founder of DCA Aged Care.
Suzanne Petterson, general manager of Lend Lease Aged Care’s operations, will be appointed to the position of chief operating officer.
 
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