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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It’s always interesting to see the outrage provoked in the real estate industry by housing affordability reports – whether they come from the Annual Demographica survey or publications in magazines such as The Economist that analyse the relationship between house prices and rental income.
If nothing else, it’s the opposite reaction to that provoked when median increases in capital city values are released. Such data is immediately celebrated, along with an inaccurate assumption that the increase has produced an equivalent dollar-by-dollar rise in individual house prices. There is rarely clarification as to what the figures actually mean.
The former publications somewhat agree with the suggestion that Australian housing is unsustainably overpriced – or to express it in more general terms, ‘unaffordable.’
Sensationalist headlines they may be, but no matter how exaggerated you perceive the claims, the crunch remains that we need as a community to provide housing for a growing population of low-income earners – and therefore affordability and supply are understandably red hot topics of concern.
In response, Australian property agents and economists dig out graphs along with various ABS and RBA statistics to prove that when compared with other “comparable” international markets we’re not so bad after-all – no bubble fear here!
“Australia is now broadly in line with other comparable countries, having risen relative to other countries since 1980 when it was at the lower end,” states the RBA in its latest study of house price to income ratios. And I’m sure many have grown tired of being lectured on the many viable reasons why we’ve seen prices and subsequently household debt increase. Reasons such as the inflation of dual-income households, ease of lending, lower borrowing rates, wage and population growth to name but a few.
These “comparable countries” include the UK, New Zealand, Denmark, the Netherlands, Canada etc. – and while it may be contextually useful to find some kind of affordability barometer on an international scale, I fail to see why it should result in the swept under the carpet conclusion that this makes our own levels of inner-suburban unaffordability somehow OK. This is a conclusion based in part on the principle that consistent demand from a dominant buyer demographic and a relatively stable job terrain mean we’re not in line for a ‘crash’ anytime soon.
Or – to put it another way – if the sky’s not falling in, forget sustainability, we can throw a few home buyer grants at the bottom end of the market as a temporary Band-Aid, waft a dismissive hand in the direction of some outer suburban nether land, and carry on ad infinitum with our ‘it’s all right Jack’, prop up the market housing policies.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Furthermore, it’s hardly complementary to compare ourselves to international terrains that – having been through somewhat harder lessons than our own – are also battling to induce first-home buyers out from underneath their rental blankets. They may look similar – but shamefully so!
As readers will be all too aware, one of the major problems with which Australia has to grapple is our need to be centrally located in and around the major capital cities. For this reason, we’ve effectively sentenced large swathes of home buyers into the equivalently priced markets of London and Paris, and the comparison isn’t pretty.
In UK, for example, despite the relative ‘crash’ in countrywide prices, prime real estate in London has continued to outperform fuelled in large on the attraction it holds for foreign investors. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership in the UK, which has of course helped fuel an investor-induced ‘rush to market’ into what many perceive to be a ‘safe haven’ to buffer against other more volatile assets.
Over 50% of property acquisitions around the ‘average’ London house price are sold to overseas buyers – and while foreign investment is freely permissible, I have no doubt this will remain the case.
A similar occurrence has happened in New York. It too is deemed a relative ‘safe haven’ for investors – hence why we’re now seeing 35-square-metre apartments for sale to combat the ‘housing crisis’ in a country renowned for its love of big houses.
Singapore, Hong Kong, China and Canada are all suffering inflated property prices in urban centres, once again fuelled by the investment sector. Singapore, for instance, has imposed temporary limitations on the number of properties investors are permitted to acquire and moved to increase taxes on ‘speculative’ sales. However, the measures are deemed temporary and therefore hardly sustainable over the long term.
New Zealand faces similar issues – it’s now been suggested that by 2040, only approximately 30% of NZ households will be able to afford a house over $400,000. It’s a worrying statistic.
All in all, few will counter that first-home buyers in the all the above markets are living on Struggle Street, with the outcry from this sector coming in loud and clear through various media outlets and social forums. However, for an industry focused on profits, the first-home buyer sector isn’t all that important.
Oh yes, you’ll hear the arguments about the need for first-home buyers to provide a ‘leg up’ for the second-home buyer market – in other words, activity at the bottom of the ‘property tree’ aids the offshoots at the top.
However, growth isn’t waning at the bottom of our real estate tree – it’s by all respects flourishing! This is because established ‘affordable’ property in the most desired urban capital city estates is a ‘hotbed’ of investor demand.
Investors make up roughly 35% of the active buying market in Australia; however they are not doing much to aid the supply of affordable accommodation – 92% of them purchase into the established market, and is it any wonder? They’ve been buoyed on by a boom decade of median price growth, indicating 10%-plus per annum capital gains for this type of accommodation.
Neither are they soaking up ‘luxury’ properties – an investment trend in some of our ‘comparable country’ markets. Most local investors have their focus primarily on property most suited to the first-home buyer demographic – the low-maintenance, easy-to-rent ‘affordable’ inner-suburban apartment market with prices ranging from $300,000 upwards.
Australia-wide, 58% of apartments are owned by investors. Break this down to a state-by-state capital city level and the investor-owned percentage of inner-city apartments is closer to 70% and in some areas exceeds even this.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Back in 2003 the RBA recognised the problem and advocated a moderation of demand in the property market amongst investors, by way of (prepare to take cover) tightening current negative gearing rules.
Figures from the ATO and RBA highlight the scale of demand – around 2 million Australians claim deductions for net rent, and around one-quarter of all household credit is there for the purpose of holding an investment property. Over 1.1 million investors are negatively geared, and growing numbers are taking advantage of changes in policy that allow investment property to be purchased as part of a self-managed super fund.  There is a whole sales industry built to cater solely for demand resulting from this sector.
Investors play an important role in all housing markets, they are needed and should be valued; however, at present, our models of investment – whether it is negative gearing, land banking or borrowing to purchase in a self-managed super fund – are solely reliant on capital growth and therefore demand is overwhelmingly concentrated on a reducing pool of established property. Hence why vacancy rates remain at historical lows.
Furthermore, don’t be fooled by the idea that any of the above assists in providing our rental sector with ‘affordable’ accommodation. Taxation benefits or interest rate drops are not passed across and we remain comparable in yield terms to our international counterparts that don’t facilitate such generous gearing rules.
If the intention is to increase the provision of affordable opportunities for the first-home buying sector, as well as increasing the vacancy rate for renters, we can only do so by increasing the supply of well-facilitated ‘quality’ real estate and reducing the ‘heat’ surrounding our city-based established real estate market.
Unfortunately, it can only be done through government policy, and seeing as we’re in an election year, the subject rightfully deserves attention.
In short, it makes no sense to encourage investment if it doesn’t achieve
<ol style="list-style-type: upper-alpha;">
<li>An improvement in housing affordability and supply;</li>
<li>An increase in vacancy rates;</li>
<li>A substantial boost to new housing and consequently infrastructure in ‘growth’ suburbs; and</li>
<li>Lower rents for the most venerable in our society</li>
</ol>
Current policy has failed to do this, are any of our politicians prepared to rock the boat and consider major reforms which could do so?
Catherine Cashmore is a market analyst with extensive experience in all aspects relating to property acquisition.
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catherinecashmore-6LXia3pPQj

Property investors are hurting the affordable property market, and negative gearing must be abolished

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The Reserve Bank will leave the cash rate on hold at 3% when it meets on Tuesday (February 5), according to the overwhelming majority of economists polled by Bloomberg.
Out of 28 economists surveyed, 24 expect the cash rate to remain unchanged in the first monetary policy meeting of the year.
Looking beyond February, economists are divided on the cash rate outlook with just over half (15 out of 28) expecting rates to remain unchanged in March.
Beyond that the median forecast is for a cash rate of 2.75% in the second-half of the year - suggesting at least one more rate cut.
However forecasts differ widely from 2% to 3.5% between now and year-end.
ANZ and Macquarie Bank tips a cash rate of 2% by year-end.
The Commonwealth tips a 3% cash rate by year-end, Westpac says 2.75% and NAB, 2.25%.
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RBA to leave cash rate on hold next week say economists: Bloomberg

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The latest housing data has confirmed News Limited economist Stephen Koukoulas’s belief that house prices will rise around 10% in 2013. 
Adding to this data, Koukoulas believes that a trifecta of factors - low interest rates, high immigration and improved affordability – make such a price rise "close to certain”. 
Speaking on the ABC's Inside Business yesterday, Koukoulas said he thought house prices were set for a strong up trend.
"We have had a bigger improvement in affordability in the last two to three years following what was clearly excessive house price growth up until the last few years.
"We have about 12% wages growth, house prices are about 5% off their peak and interest rates are very low, so affordability has improved dramatically," he says.
Helped by growing migration and a lack of houses being built in the past, he expects housing to do "particularly well".
January housing data released by RP Data has house prices up 1.2% over January with all the major capital cities recording gains over the month, <a href="/news">led by Brisbane, Perth and Sydney</a>. 
Also last week, The Housing Industry Association’s reported new home sales rose 6.2% in December after rising 3% in November and 3.6% in October. 
“That is a thumping 13% lift in sales in the final three months of 2012, an impressive lift after home sales were in the doldrums around the middle of last year,” said Koukoulas in his latest column for Business Spectator. 
Other signs that housing is on track for double-digit growth in 2013, says Koukoulas is home building approvals (indicators of future construction) are lifting. 
“From the low in April 2012, the number of approvals has lifted more than 20% which points to the housing making a decent contribution to GDP growth, he said. 
Koukoulas also points out that the share price in companies related to the home building industry “have skyrocketed in recent times” including building materials provider Boral up 60% since the middle of 2012 and commercial property developer Leighton Holdings up nearly 50% over the same period. 
“The housing sector is set for a strong performance in 2013. 
“There are likely to be strong rising house prices, higher home sales and a lift in construction," he says.
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House prices to rise 10% this year as part of upward trend: Koukoulas

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Mortgage lender RAMS has waived application fees and settlement fees for first-home buyers as part of a new campaign aimed at helping them move from renting to buying.
The campaign is being promoted by a new television commercial, which aired for the first time last weekend.
RAMS has also waived the account keeping fees on its RAMS Low Rate Home Loan with Introductory Rate Option, during the introductory rate period.
According to the lender, this could save first-home buyers up to $1,590 in fees.
“We understand the frustrations of FHBs who tell us they are in a rental rut and are delaying purchasing a property due to their inability to afford repayments and fears of unemployment in an uncertain economy," says RAMS chief executive Melos Sulicich.
“We have listened to their concerns and created genuine options designed to renew first-home buyer confidence and reignite their passion and drive to take the first step to home ownership."
RAMS says it is also helping first-home buyers by requiring only a 5% deposit with a full-doc loan (plus funds to cover transaction costs), if they meet our other lending criteria.
The lender has also cut its two-year fixed rate from 5.39% to 5.25%.
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RAMS waives fees for first-home buyers

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The “wide gulf” that exists between prices and rents suggests that housing in Australia is overvalued, argues Deakin University researcher and housing bubble proponent Philip Soos.
Soos points to RP Data’s most recent Buy vs Rent, which he says shows that unless you’re willing to buy in remote or unattractive locations, it’s cheaper to rent then own property.
The RP Data report found that out of 5,230 suburbs, there are 388 suburbs that are cheaper to buy than rent based on a standard principle and interest home loan. This rises to 1,031 suburbs if borrowers are willing to pay an extra $50 a week in mortgage repayments.
While a more realistic study would factor in costs such as "maintenance, council rates, water and sewerage, land tax, body corporate levies, stamp duty, and legal and conveyancing fees"  Soos says it does provide some evidence to suggest a "confirmation of overvaluation in the residential real estate sector, that is, the market price of property is significantly greater than future rents capitalised”
As further evidence of this claim, he points to the rising <a target="_blank" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/0bd6ea4d7e0e401eca257300000473fc/dbccae23bff9983eca257b03007e58e6/bodyrich/0.1218!OpenElement&amp;FieldElemFormat=gif">ratio of real house prices to rents</a> which have increased by 64% from trough to peak (1997-2007) with some moderation recently due to falling housing prices and rising rents in the last two years.
Currently the ratio is about 160% (house prices to rents) and Soos says it serves as one of many indicators to determine possible overvaluation in the real estate sector.
“It comprises a valuable metric and thus should not be ignored,” he says.
According to Soos, this divergence between house prices and rents suggests “confirmation of overvaluation in the residential real estate sector, that is, the market price of property is significantly greater than future rents capitalised”.
Furthermore, he says it indicates the Australian property market is not operating in an efficient manner.
“Conventional economic theory stipulates that, in an efficient property market, the all-in risk and tax-adjusted cost of purchasing a property should equal the cost of renting it,” writes Soos in a column for Business Spectator.
“If buying is dearer than renting, then supposedly rational individuals will change their preference by selling, taking the profit, and renting, driving down housing prices until the cost of buying equals the cost of renting,” he says.
Soos says what is driving up the difference between house prices and rents is “debt-financed speculation”.
While rents are determined by wages and what tenants can afford to pay, capital values are driven by banks willingness to provide finance to home owners and investors “limited only by lending regulations (if banks choose to observe them) and borrowers’ ability to service the mortgage repayments”.
 
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Disconnect between rents and house prices suggests housing is overvalued: Philip Soos

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Due to the lengthy forewarning of the September federal election, the election is unlikely to have a detrimental effect on the property market, according to Leanne Pilkington general manager of Laing+Simmons.
Pilkington says September is usually the month the market picks up due to the weather warming up, and the election date may cause a slight delay in spring campaigns being launched.
Although Pilkington says any potential delay will be short lived.
“It could be argued that a September election is preferable to October or November, as once the election outcome is finalised, the spring selling period can move into full swing,” says Pilkington.
“Buyers will still feel they have time to make a considered purchase and vendors need not rush to accept prices lower than their expectations.”
“In the five to six weeks leading up to an election, which is a more typical campaign timeframe, we would expect to see the market slow down until an outcome is finalised, as buyers take a wait-and-see approach and sellers react accordingly,” she says.
Pilkington also says both buyers and sellers will be eager to understand the policy positions of the Government and Opposition as they relate to the property market.
Depending on the policies announced, Pilkington says the election might have the effect of bringing forward demand before September 14 or delaying activity until an outcome is known.
First homebuyers are the main section of the property market that will be impacted by an election outcome, as grants and incentive programs are targeted at this buyer category.
Pilkington also says that vendors whose properties suit this buyer profile will be equally interested.
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

September election unlikely to have a detrimental effect on the market

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It’s been about 12 years since I started my business. Within this period I’ve established many business relationships.
The thing that I’ve really learnt is that relationships are extremely valuable.  Not shallow, B.S. relationships but good, strong established relationships that can only really be made with time.
As a property investor and developer, having good relationships can propel you further than you could imagine. Just this week, my relationship with one of my builders gives my lucky new client the opportunity to purchase a choice development site. This site is owned by my builder’s company, and they’ve been sitting on it for a little while, land banking.  The beauty of this deal is that Property Bloom has already completed a development in the same subdivision for another client. This project was one of the best results we’ve achieved to date, with the creation of over $220,000 in equity in just over a year.  So I knew it was a hot site, I knew what the build costs would most likely be and I knew that my new client could never find a deal like this himself.
The benefit to my client is time and risk minimisation. Because the land is not on the open market, we have the time to spend looking closely at the project. This development site has been offered to me exclusively. I now have the luxury of time to show my new client the land and take him through the project analysis. If this site were to hit the open market, that luxury is removed and there would be a rush to secure the site. This is where errors in the analysis process can be made, when there is no time to properly assess a site. The price of the land can also be driven up by multiple parties.
Here’s another good example of how a strong relationship helps both parties. We have a preferred real estate agent in one of the large towns in the Hunter region we develop in. This agent is savvy. He also understands the value of relationships. He’s been building one with me for 12 years.  He will call me as soon as he has a good development site, before it hits the open market; he knows what I’m looking for. I know where I stand with him when we are negotiating a purchase.
In return, I refer him business – because he’s a great agent, I have no hesitation in recommending him. He has offered our clients a good discount in property management fees and so he and his business has become our preferred agency in this town.  We scratch each other’s backs.
From our arrangement, he gets all of my client’s properties to manage.  Believe me, I would not refer his business to my clients if he didn’t have the best property management team on staff, and he does.  There were a few years when he took a break from the industry, sold his agency to one of his staff, and I never heard from that new owner again. The relationship he had worked so hard to build was easily broken by the new owner when he didn’t call. I didn’t have faith in the business so I stopped referring it. The new owner didn’t understand the value in keeping the established relationships. I'm glad to say, my agent resurfaced in a larger town a few years later and has worked hard to be one of if not the best agent in this area. We were back in business.
Our business relationships are precious and we nurture them accordingly. As a reward, our clients get priority service from several of our suppliers, our pest and building inspector, our surveyor, our architect, our certifier, our builders, our trades – plus we get to work with an awesome team of people who we respect.  You can’t buy this, you need to build this, and it all comes together with time.  Over time, you work out who you need, who you can rely on and most importantly, who you like doing business with.
Jo Chivers is director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" title="Property Bloom">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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Strong relationships the cornerstone to successful property investment

<html><body>Leading Sydney estate agent ?John McGrath<a href="https://www.facebook.com/public/John-McGrath" target="_blank"> has listed on his Facebook page</a> the 10 reasons why he believes the residential market will be 5% to 10% higher by the end of 2013.   1. The Australian share market is recovering quickly, and this will generate (and replenish) great wealth for many Australians.  2. China is on the surge with an 8% anticipated growth rate this year (and beyond), and we will benefit more than any other country.  3. We have record low interest rates, with existing and new borrowers reaping the benefits making property more affordable. 4. We have a nationwide housing shortage and will for some time, so demand will outstrip supply in an improving sellers market. 5. Cash and term deposits are becoming far less attractive, and many people will see the time is right to switch from cash into growth assets.  6. Rents will continue to climb in the face of the housing shortage providing investors increasing yields over the next few years.  7. Self-managed super funds (SMSF) investing directly in residential property is the biggest change I’ve seen in the last 12 months 8. Luxury homes are back by 20%-40% in value and will provide great buying for the recovering professional market buyers (read <a href="/news">Palm Beach</a> weekenders are about to become mega popular again!).  9. Most experts are tipping a landslide change in federal government, which will give great confidence to the business community. 10. As all the above happens in our connected community we’ll see a surge of confidence and FOMO (fear of missing out), which will stimulate continued investment over the next three- to five-year cycle.</body></html>

The 10 reasons why Australian property prices will rise 5% to 10% in 2013: John McGrath

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Over the years, I have discovered that successful investors do things in a certain way that helps them become rich, while others continue to do things differently and in general they tend to struggle.
I’ve come to the conclusion that when you do what most successful investors do, you get to become one of them, and if you don't – you won’t.
With 2013 panning out to be another challenging year in property, let’s look at six simple reasons most investors will never get rich and how to make sure you do:
1. Most people wait too long to start
Most people can’t wait to succeed; yet they are willing to wait to get started on the road to riches.
Many investors are waiting for everything to be “perfect” before they get going.
They wait for the right time in the cycle, the right property, the right economic environment or the right interest rates: which means they never get going.
The longer you wait to get started with your investing, the longer it will be before you get the money, success and freedom you want. It takes time to grow real wealth. It takes time for the power of compounding to work its magic.
You need to understand that the timing will never be perfect or you will never have all the information you want. You need to develop the confidence to make an investment decision based on knowing enough and realising that you will learn the rest along the way.
2. Fear stops them
Fear keeps many of us from getting what we want, especially in matters of money.
Be honest with yourself and count the number of times fear has prevented you from taking action, and in the process cost you a lost financial opportunity.
In the matter of property investment, fear holds many investors back.
Some fear taking on more debt, others fear failure and some even have a fear of success (will my friends still like me?).
Successful investors have learned to harness their fears and rather than focus on the negatives, they use fear to force them into positive action.
For example, rather than allowing fear of debt to stop them taking on the commitment of buying a property they use the fear of not moving forward with their investments to motivate them.
They use the fear of being stuck in their job for the rest of their lives, without the financial independence that they are craving, to motivate them to take on the commitment of an investment property.
Money and success lives on the other side of fear.
3. Waiting until they know enough
The fear of not knowing enough prevents other investors from getting started.
However, the irony here is that the more you learn, the more you learn you don't know!
Once you start learning some basic investment concepts you suddenly realise there are a whole lot more things about investing or property that you don’t understand.
That's the paradox of knowledge: The more you learn, the more you learn you don't know.
The trap is that many investors think that the way to escape this paradox is to learn even more, so they read more books, go to more seminars, listen to CDs and watch DVDs.
As they learn more they find a whole heap more things they don’t yet know.
The key is to recognise that while you don't know it all, and you never will, you do know enough to get started with your investing and you will learn more along the way as you apply your knowledge in the real world, surviving any mistakes and challenges along the way.
 
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4. Focusing on linear income instead of passive income
It is important to realise that not all income is created equal. Some streams are linear and some are passive.
Linear income is what you get from a job. You work for an hour and get paid once for that hour's work, and that's it. If you don’t turn up to work you don’t get paid.
Passive income is when you work once but you continue to get paid over and over again from work you're no longer doing. The way to become wealthy is having passive income coming in whether you go to work or not.
Wouldn’t it be nice to be paid hundreds of times for every hour you work?
That’s what happens to property investors. Initially they work long hours, save up a deposit and then invest it into a property.
Now their money starts working for them and keeps giving them sound investment returns “passively” in the form of capital growth and rental returns. Rather than getting another job, the wealthy people know they need to send their money out to work for them.
To put it simply: if you're not making money while you sleep, you'll never become rich.
5. Not using systems for making money
A system for making money is something that takes the emotion out of your investment decisions and makes the results more reproducible.
My preferred system is investing in high growth property. In particular I invest in high growth properties in areas that are in the upturn stage of their property cycle.
I buy them below replacement cost and then add value through renovations or redevelopment.
I rarely sell these properties. I borrow against the increasing equity in my property portfolio to buy more properties.
Once you create a proven system for making money, there is no limit to the money you can make.
 
6. Not being patient
Warren Buffet once said: “wealth is the transfer of money from the impatient to the patient”.
To become a successful property investor requires patience and persistence. You must not only get started, but you must continue on and follow through.
Residential property is a long-term investment. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme.
Yet many investors speculate rather than invest. They look for that “big deal” which will land them a jackpot in a short period of time.
In general these types of deals rarely occur and if you find one, it will likely be speculative in nature and riskier.
The problem for many investors is that the successful buy and hold strategy I advocate is boring and others consider it slow. But successful property investment is a long-term affair.
Many investors look for the latest fad or try finding the next hot spot or speculative growth areas. Other investors consider other types of investments with potentially higher returns.
When you are tempted to do this, remind yourself that real estate has been the number one long-term multi-millionaire maker throughout Australia’s history, yet most people that speculate in the latest fads have not made much money.
You don’t have to look for the latest fads or the latest speculative growth areas if you create your own capital growth through buying a good property at a fair price, then adding value through refurbishments, renovations or redevelopments.
By doing this you are manufacturing your own capital growth.
So, it's really quite simple...
Decide to do these six things that successful property investors do and you are much more likely to become a successful and wealthy property investor. If you don't do them, then like most people, you may never get rich.
 
 
Michael Yardney is a director of <a href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Strategists</a>, which creates wealth for 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/">Property Update</a> blog. Subscribe today and you'll receive a free video training - The Golden Rules of Property Investment. 
Here’s a bonus reason for you…
Another reason so many investors fail is that they try and do it all themselves. The inconvenient truth is that there is no such thing as a self-made millionaire.
Successful investors build a great team around them and have mentors and models – they learn from people that have already achieved what they want to achieve.
They look for people who give them independent, unbiased advice, and that's what Rolf Schaefer, Mario Borg and I will be doing at my National Property &amp; Economic Update - Outlook for Property Investors 2013 around Australia in March and April.
<a href="https://propertymarketupdate.com.au/">Click here</a> for more details and reserve your seats now.
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Six reasons most property investors struggle and never become rich

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The majority of borrowers (55%) expect the RBA to leave the cash rate unchanged at 3% at its monetary policy meeting on Tuesday (February 5).
But demonstrating perhaps confusion among homeowners about the future direction of interest rates, a large proportion (44%) expects the RBA to lower rates to record lows.
These were the findings of an online survey of 452 respondents carried out by mortgage broker Loan Market, who asked the question ‘What action do you think the RBA is going to take at its February meeting?’
Loan Market survey results:
<ul>
<li>Lower rates 25 bps                            35%</li>
<li>Lower rates 50 bps                             9%</li>
<li>Raise rates 25 bps                              1%</li>
<li>Leave rates unchanged                     55%</li>
</ul>
Nearly one in ten borrowers are hopeful of an unlikely 50 basis point rate cut, which would take the cash rate to an all-time record low of 2.5%
“It’s very likely the RBA will apply the same wait-and-see approach, it demonstrated throughout 2012 at its meeting next week,” says Loan spokesman Paul Smith
“Most economic indicators are within targeted ranges and it appears home owners aren’t convinced the RBA has enough evidence to lower interest rates,”
“The December rate cut certainly did help inject some confidence into areas of the economy and help spending and consumption over the holiday period. But like most interest rate movements, it takes time to assess the full impact as more data becomes available,” he says.
Smith says that these results could indicate that households do not expect the economy to grow on the heels of RBA rate cuts alone.
“Households have seen four rate cuts in the past year yet housing finance remains flat and sentiment remains quite cautious. If the government is looking to promote confidence in the economy it should look to ease concerns about the two-speed economy or home building,” he says.
 
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