A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

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The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

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The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

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Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

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Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

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The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

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Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

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.

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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.

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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?

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=7FZ1Sk-Vm60JbLwi" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Volaire is West Melbourne’s newest luxury development, offering a collection of 152 one and two-bedroom apartments,

Urban has taken&nbsp;a look at eight reasons why you should buy an apartment in the Dryburgh Street project. 
&nbsp;

1. Cbus Property is delivering&nbsp;the project

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2407]

One of Australia’s most recognisable property developers, Cbus Property has a history of delivering high-quality, luxurious urban developments.

With a portfolio exceeding $5 billion across investments and developments in the commercial, residential and retail sectors, Cbus has established themselves as a responsible and sustainable group. 
&nbsp;

2. Located in an undiscovered pocket of Melbourne

Formerly a rugged industrial area, Melbourne’s inner-northwest has emerged into a cultural precinct, conveniently located on the edge of the CBD.

Independent shops, cafés and restaurants pepper the nearby streets and the area’s distinctive character make Volaire the ideal home for first home buyers or investors. 
&nbsp;

3. Set your roots in a trendy neighbourhood

<a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1697" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne-a2cfb08b77c5fac70bf4a2af5fe3ac95.jpg" width="3000" /></a>

With trendy coffee shops and wine bars nearby, Volaire caters to every Melbournians’ love for food, coffee and craft beer.

Located in close proximity to the University of Melbourne campus and amongst renovated warehouses and former factories, the local surrounds boast a university-town vibe. The suburb’s industrial atmosphere complements the sheer coolness of the surrounding shops and people. 
&nbsp;

4. Designed by award-winning architects

Designed by Hayball, an award winning Australasian architectural practice, Volaire offers smartly-designed one and two-bedroom apartments with neutral interior tones and light-filled living spaces.

The sleek and slender 10-storey mid-rise utilises space to provide residents with the ultimate in comfort and convenience. 
&nbsp;

5. Ground floor retail and a modern lobby

<a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1545" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne-004a7eec0bdeec1c372e1de93085c30c.jpg" width="2872" /></a>

Located at 9 Dryburgh Street, Cbus Property’s development is set to sit atop ground-floor retail and café spaces.

At the northern building entrance, a landscaped courtyard provides an inviting entry to the triple-height, glazed lobby, conveying luxury to passers-by. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

6. Generous private balconies

Delivering seamless integration of the indoor and outdoor areas of each residence, generous private balconies feature floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and offer views of the bay, city and distant-ranges.

<a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1333" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne-c225a8d571460b0daf47a9c58e38cfce.jpg" width="2000" /></a>

The alfresco areas present residents with the “space to relax, unwind and savour the joy of just being at home”, according to the project’s marketing.

&nbsp;

7. A full-floor residents’ lounge

<a href="/buildings/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1518" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/volaire-9-dryburgh-street-west-melbourne-727a4a7b1e149bf99c0a9e5f3c80b787_0.jpg" width="3000" /></a>

Situated on the sixth floor and dubbed “Sky Podium”, a dramatic residents’ lounge provides indoor and outdoor community space to socialise with neighbours or relax in privacy.

A fully equipped alfresco barbecue and built-in dining space is included within the space, as well as landscaped garden beds, a sun-deck, intimate seating arrangements and green spaces.

&nbsp;

8. Its located on the doorstep of North Melbourne Station

This development stands out for its connectivity, located 100-metres from the entrance to the busy North Melbourne station and one stop from the state’s principal transport hub.

Located a 20-minute walk from the Melbourne CBD or Docklands, this well-connected development is bound to suit everyone.

Urban takes a look at eight reasons why you should buy an apartment in Cbus Property's Dryburgh Street project.

max.kwok_55688

Find out the #1 thing that first home buyers love about West Melbourne apartment development Volaire

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First home buyers looking to secure a new off-the-plan apartment will be glad to know they can still take advantage of the NSW Government’s stamp duty exemptions.

Last August, the NSW Government increased the threshold for stamp duty exemption for newly built homes from $650,000 to $800,000 for first home buyers.

The First Home Buyers Assistance scheme (FHBAS) erases barriers to home ownership for many who can now save thousands.

Urban takes a look at six Sydney apartments you can secure and pay no transfer duty

 1. The Laneways, Rosebery 
Address: 33-37 Mentmore Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018 
One-bedroom apartments from $562,800

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24323]

The Laneways is Rosebery's exciting new address, delivered by Ellerson Property and located on the sought-after Mentmore Avenue.

The boutique-sized apartments include one, two and three-bedroom offerings at an entry price well below the NSW Government’s FHBAS threshold. Among its offerings include a spacious entertainer's kitchen, floor-to-ceiling storage and its convenient location just six-kilometres from the Sydney CBD. 
 

2. Bloom Arncliffe 
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205 
Two-bedroom apartments from $710,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

Bloom Arncliffe offers one and two-bedroom apartments perfect for first home buyers looking to take advantage of stamp duty exemptions.

Dispersed over seven state-of-the-art buildings, the recently-completed development features space to work from home, private balconies, entertaining space and views of Botany Bay. 
 

3. Beyond, Hurstville 
Address: 93 Forest Road, Hurstville 
One-bedroom apartments from $685,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]

Designed in collaboration between Woods Bagot and DKO Architecture, Beyond provides first home buyers with incredible amenities at an affordable entry price.

As well as the attached 4,500sqm retail precinct anchored by Woolworths, Fridcorp’s Beyond is boasts an outdoor dining and teppanyaki grill, gardens, lobby bar and residents’ dining. 
 

4. The Galleria, Parramatta 
Address: 23-29 Hassall Street, Parramatta NSW 2150 
Two-bedroom apartments from $699,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9190]

Situated in the heart of the Parramatta CBD, the Galleria boasts 20-storeys and numerous on-site amenities, including a sixth-floor sky podium.

Features and finishes of the finest quality have been carefully selected to create an air of enduring style and sophistication from the interior colour palette to the bathrooms and kitchens to the generous indoor and alfresco living spaces. 
 

5. Moseley, Carlingford 
Address: 17-21 Moseley Street, Carlingford NSW 2118 
Two-bedroom apartments from $752,900

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25486]

The affordable Moseley project by the H&amp;T Group is located in the City of Ryde, and close-by Epping Station.

Offering 41 one, two and three-bedroom apartments with contemporary design, modern silhouettes and amenities, first home buyers can save on the project. Among its offerings include private storage, a gym, communal entertaining areas and an electric car charging dock. 
 

6. Eminence, Zetland 
Address: 811 Elizabeth Street, Zetland NSW 2017 
One-bedroom apartments from $745,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21882]

Set in the dynamic inner-city precinct, Zetland, Eminence delivers a trio of boutique buildings commanding four street frontages nestled perfectly between Surry Hills, the transformational Green Square precinct and the Sydney CBD.

Delivered by Meriton and designed by DKO Architecture, Eminence brings together residences with onsite retail, childcare facilities, podium gardens and five-star amenities.
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First home buyers looking to secure a new off-the-plan apartment will be glad to know they can still take advantage of the NSW Government’s stamp duty exemptions

Save thousands: Sydney apartments you can secure without paying stamp duty 

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SQM Research has calculated the national residential rental vacancy rate decreased sightly in January, with all mainland capital cities recording falls in vacancies in January.

SQM Research noted that there are now less vacancies compared to last January – just prior to the first outbreak of Covid-19 in Australia. 

But CBD rental vacancy rates in both Sydney and Melbourne remain elevated, despite recent falls. 

Melbourne’s overall vacancy rate decreased from 4.7% in December 2020 to stand at 4.4%,  the highest vacancy rate for any of the capitals.

This time last year, Melbourne’s vacancy rate was low at 2.1%. 

Sydney also recorded a fall in vacancies over January with the rental vacancy rate sitting at 3.2%, assisted by sharp falls in the CBD rental market where vacancy rates are down to 6.2% after being as high as 16% in May last year. 

“We remain of the view that there will not be a complete reversal of the sharp rise in rental vacancy rates experienced in these locations,” SQM’s Louis Christopher said.

“Demand for inner city property will remain affected by the closure of the international border as well as ongoing caution on future city lockdowns. 

“This will mean 2021 will remain largely a tenant’s market in the inner cities but will also very much remain a landlord’s market for regional Australia.” 

<img alt="" height="592" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sqm_vacancy_rates.jpg" width="1200">

Landlords in capital city are seeking slightly higher asking rents, up 0.7% for both houses and units to $552 per week for houses and $413 per week for units.  

Sydney had the highest increase of 3.2% in asking rents for houses and 2.2% in unit asking rents.  

“This is the first significant rise for Sydney since February 2020,” SQM’s Louis Christopher who pointed out 12-month rents are still in the negative by 6.3% (houses) and 8.9% (units) respectively. 

Melbourne continued to record declines in both house and unit asking rents over the month, falling by 0.1% and 0.4% respectively.  Interestingly, rents slightly rose in the CBD for units, a sign that the worse could be over for CBD landlords. 

Canberra recorded increases in house rents of 2.8% and unit rents increased by 2.7%. Perth house and unit rents also increased over the month.  

<img alt="" height="1011" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sqm_weekly_rents.jpg" width="1200">

 
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jchancellor

Find out what happened to the national vacancy rate in January

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Expert Observer

As we previously projected, the housing market has shifted from a buyer’s market to a seller’s one, where fear of missing out (FOMO) has become a major factor. In addition, it is highly likely that the ultra-low interest rate environment will remain in place for at least for the next 24 months, and possibly longer. 

This, combined with only a low availability of stock of quality assets in popular areas, has been reflected in almost unprecedented auction clearance rates.  

Buyer’s agents have been reporting tight stock levels all over the country. 

It’s not uncommon to see lower stock levels over the summer break, but this year has been something else. Even as new listings have begun to pick up supply is being comfortably outstripped by demand and the market overall is very tight.

Melbourne presents a slightly different dynamic, with various disruptions making the market more disjointed, but in most parts of the country open homes are busy as confidence returns, and strong sales results are being reported in short order.

Market dynamics confirmed earlier forecasts of strong price growth in 2021, with some markets likely to even better than previously forecast. 

It is projected that both Sydney and Melbourne will deliver capital growth in the range of 8-12 per cent in 2021. Many areas are also likely to deliver double digit growth over the calendar year. In particular, houses with a high land value component and scarcity value are likely to enjoy very strong demand and capital growth, both in the short and long term. 

Other markets, particularly south-east Queensland and popular regional areas that offer particularly good lifestyle choices, also enjoy strong demand, and this is likely to result in strong price growth both in the short- and long-term, as the trend of increased popularity of such areas is sustained. 

The medium- and long-term projections for South Australia, Western Australia, and the Northern Territory, are different than those that are projected to the eastern states. While many other areas that experience lower population growth and softer job market (in comparison to Sydney and Melbourne), such as Perth, are also experiencing strong capital growth for houses, this is less sustainable over the long term, due to lower external migration and a relatively smaller number of high paying jobs in the ‘knowledge industry’ (e.g., financial services, IT, etc).  

Obviously, these are under our key underlying assumption is that the COVID-19 vaccinations that have been rolled out will provide a sustainable solution to the virus over time. 

Rental apartments, however, continue to represent a higher risk at the present time, in particular inner-city apartment markets such as Inner-Melbourne.  

Consumer sentiment is very high, as expected. According to Westpac-Melbourne Institute, in February, Westpac’s key measure of house price expectations has risen strongly to 154.7 from 117.3 in October. All states have registered impressive recoveries. 

House price expectations are already being reflected in auction clearance rates figures, especially in Melbourne. Preliminary auction clearance rates in the last week of January showed results of 83 per cent in Melbourne and 83 per cent in Sydney, with noticeably higher auction clearance rates for houses than units. Clearance rates across the country are likely to remain high and similar to pre-pandemic Levels and well above the 70 per cent mark. 

A sustained period of ultra-low interest rates seems almost certain in the foreseeable future. This has led some lenders to offer introductory home loan variable rates of 1.79 per cent, a move which follows the launch of the first fixed rates of 1.75 per cent. Consequently, this has led to an increase in housing finance.  

The latest ABS data on new housing lending showed a record 31.2 per cent year-on-year rise, driven by a surge in owner-occupier lending (which includes a large increase in construction loans) as well as a smaller rise in investment lending. The value of new owner occupier home loan commitments increased by 8.7 per cent to $19.9 billion in December 2020 and the value of investor loan commitments was also up 10.9 per cent to $6.07 billion. 

First home buyer activity is also well above the benchmark, up 56.6 per cent year-on-year. However, the share of owner-occupier activity is likely to reduce with an expected increase in investor activity. 

A further increase in housing finance is highly likely during the first quarter of 2021 with many lenders already experiencing backlogs to address loan pre-approval applications. Ultra-low interest rates are also likely to have a positive impact on the market during 2021 and 2022. 

Lifestyle areas enjoyed strong demand before COVID-19 hit, and the demand trend of sea- and treechange homebuyers is now, with flexible working arrangements, even stronger. Those who work in a stable corporate environment, but do so remotely, are taking advantage of great buying opportunities in NSW, Victoria, and south-east Queensland. 

These include areas of south-east Queensland such as the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, just over the NSW border in Byron Bay, and further south on the Central Coast, in areas such as North Avoca, Terrigal, and Wamberal. Then, there are also sought-after locations such as the Hunter Valley, Wollongong, and the NSW South Coast, and in Victoria, the Mornington Peninsula, Geelong, and Ballarat. Beachside suburbs especially are outperforming the wider market as they offer fantastic lifestyle opportunities. The ability to work remotely and to move to regional areas also has been a contributing factor in supporting housing affordability, as the pressure in capital cities will be somewhat mitigated. 

Due to ultra-low interest rates, the housing market is reaching new highs with further price increases projected. Consequently, this will make dwellings less affordable when including the required deposit and closing costs. While internal migration to regional areas somewhat mitigates the problem, there is still a major undersupply of family suitable properties in popular areas with proximity to the major employment hubs. 

High-rise apartments are not considered to be a fully substitutable product to houses and townhouses, and therefore will not materially impact the demand for houses. Housing affordability is likely to remain a chronic issue particularly in Greater Sydney, Greater Melbourne as well as popular areas in south-east Queensland. 

However, it is likely that strong price increases will encourage APRA to watch the housing market closely, particularly given record low interest rates, high household debt, and signs of some revival in borrowing for speculative purposes. It should be noted that strong investor activity is perceived by the RBA as ‘speculation’ that increases the risks to financial stability. Consequently, any major increase in investor activity is likely to trigger the reintroduction of macroprudential measures by APRA, at a certain point in time. 

Population growth, as projected, has been reduced substantially and there will be significant reduction in total population growth due to low external migration, with Net Overseas Migration (NOM) in FY21 is expected to drop to -71,600 people, for Australia's first experience of negative NOM since 1946. This negative trend is forecast to continue in FY22 and only gradually return to pre-COVID levels from FY23 onwards. The reduction in overseas migration has and will continue to have a major impact on rental apartments that have already experienced increased vacancy rates and lower demand from investors. 

In the immediate term, there are higher risks in the rental apartment segment, that are likely to result in price reductions across the country, particularly in heavily supplied areas in Melbourne, and to a lesser extent in Sydney. These markets may be more volatile due to the high proportion of property investors and high levels of external migration. There is a renewed interest in the high risk off-the-plan units, due to generous government concessions and the perceived opportunity to buy at, allegedly, low prices. 

However, off-the-plan units carry a high level of risk mainly as buyers, including property investors, shift demand towards detached houses. Uncertainty in relation to external migration further increases the risk. 

The unit rental market overall remains relatively weak. The decline in unit rents was largely concentrated around the inner-city markets of Melbourne and Sydney, contributing to a city-wide drop of 7.6 per cent and 5.7 per cent respectively over the year. Unit rents also fell 4.6 per cent across the combined capital city unit market. 

This increases serviceability risk (particularly in the short term) due to the combination of continued high supply of units, preference for houses in capital cities and regional areas, and uncertainty related to the rental demand largely driven by young renters and migrants.  

Serviceability risk already has and will continue to have a significant impact on investor demand for high-rise units, as investors are very responsive to out-of-pocket expenses. 

Therefore, both equity risk and cash flow risk for rental apartments, remain relatively high.

Pete Wargent 
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The housing market has shifted from a buyer’s market to a seller’s one, where fear of missing out (FOMO) has become a major factor

pwargent

Ultra-low interest rates and 'FOMO' drive dwelling values to new highs with double-digit growth on the horizon: Pete Wargent

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Internal migration resulted in a net loss of 11,200 people from Australia’s capital cities in the September quarter of 2020, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/latest-release">data</a> released this month. At the same time, some regional areas experienced significant <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-01-04/house-prices-rise-1pc-regional-beats-capital-cities/13029268#:%7E:text=Annual%20data%20by%20real%20estate,research%20director%20Tim%20Lawless%20said.">growth in house prices</a> as <a href="https://thenewdaily.com.au/finance/property/2020/12/04/regional-australia-property-boom/">demand for properties</a> increased. So this has raised the questions: are we starting to see an <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-02-02/abs-data-confirms-city-exodus-during-covid/13112868">exodus from our cities</a>, and is this related to the COVID-19 pandemic?

To work out what is happening there are a few important things to consider.

<h2>In Australia we move a lot</h2>

The first thing to keep in mind is that Australia has one of the <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/2071.0%7E2016%7EMain%20Features%7EPopulation%20Shift:%20Understanding%20Internal%20Migration%20in%20Australia%7E69">most internally mobile populations</a> in the world. About 40% of the population change their addresses at least once within a five-year period. However, the level of internal migration within Australia has <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/2071.0%7E2016%7EMain%20Features%7EPopulation%20Shift:%20Understanding%20Internal%20Migration%20in%20Australia%7E69">fallen since the 1990s</a>.

The greatest fall has been for long-distance moves between Australia cities and regions, which <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/migration-australia">declined by 25%</a> between 1991 and 2016. Moves between states and territories <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/migration-australia">fell by 16%</a> over this period. An increase or decrease in internal migration from year to year is not unusual.

<figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img alt="chart showing net internal migration figures from September quarter 2010 to September quarter 2020" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=420&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=528&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=528&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383668/original/file-20210211-19-dvgm7d.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=528&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w"></a>

<figcaption><a class="source" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/latest-release">Data: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Regional internal migration estimates</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Putting the numbers into context</h2>

While the recent loss of 11,200 people from Australia’s capital cities is the largest on record, it’s not a significant proportion of the population. Australia’s population has grown and so we expect to see the number of internal migrants to grow too.

The net loss of 11,200 people from capital cities is only 0.06% of the <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-population/2018-19">total population</a> – 17.2 million – living in these cities. This is comparable to recent years.

While net loss – those arriving less those departing – is interesting, it is also important to consider the actual numbers of people who are moving to or leaving capital cities. The growth in the net loss of population from capital cities in the September quarter was not the result of a city exodus. What happened in 2020 was that fewer people moved into capital cities.

Drilling down further behind the headline data, we find Brisbane, Perth and Darwin all had net population gains. Brisbane has gained residents through internal migration in <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/sep-2020/3412055005DS0001_202003.xls">each quarter since 2014</a>.

The greatest contributor to the recent net quarterly loss of 11,200 was Sydney, with a net loss of 7,782 people. Melbourne was close behind with a net loss of 7,445.

While this might look alarming at first, Sydney and Melbourne are the largest population centres in Australia. And Sydney has recorded a net loss of population through internal migration <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/sep-2020/3412055005DS0001_202003.xls">every quarter for the past two decades</a>. Melbourne recorded net losses until 2012 and then since 2017.

Sydney and Melbourne’s overall population continued to grow over this period due to international migration. Population churn is part of the rhythm of these global cities.

The <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/sep-2020/3412055005DS0001_202003.xls">data</a> also reveal that, on average, regional Australia has been gaining population for many years – decades actually. Moving to regional Australia is not new.

The past year’s COVID-19 restrictions closed Australia’s borders to the previously <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/migration-australia/latest-release#net-overseas-migration">large numbers of international migrants</a>. Without these international migrants moving to capital cities, the long-term trend of people relocating to urban areas around major cities has become more apparent.

<h2>Have the capital cities lost their appeal?</h2>

Just considering the September 2020 quarter, <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/latest-release">nearly 42,000 people</a> moved to capital cities. This is comparable to the March and June quarters of 2020.

This inflow is noteworthy. At a time when many capital cities had mobility restrictions related to COVID-19 in place, people were still moving to these cities. Australia’s capital cities <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/articles/300000-more-people-living-capital-cities">have not lost their appeal</a>.

<figure class="align-center zoomable"><a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img alt="Table showing quarterly internal migration for greater capital cities in September 2019, June 2020 and September 2020" sizes="(min-width: 1466px) 754px, (max-width: 599px) 100vw, (min-width: 600px) 600px, 237px" src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" srcset="https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=241&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 600w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=241&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1200w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=600&amp;h=241&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 1800w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=302&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=1 754w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=30&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=302&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=2 1508w, https://images.theconversation.com/files/383690/original/file-20210211-23-ncinci.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=15&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;h=302&amp;fit=crop&amp;dpr=3 2262w"></a>

<figcaption>Click on table to enlarge. <a class="source" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-internal-migration-estimates-provisional/latest-release">Data: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Regional internal migration estimates Feb. 2021</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">CC BY</a></figcaption></figure>There is a risk in interpreting net migration from capital cities as an indicator of decreasing satisfaction with city lifestyles or a growing desire for rural lifestyles. It masks the <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/BriefingBook43p/regionalpopulation">considerable variability</a> in the types of moves people are making, where they are going and why.

Outside of capital cities are a whole range of different community types. They range from expansive city areas such as the Gold Coast and Geelong through to tiny agricultural and fishing hamlets.

The <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/population/regional-population/latest-release">fastest-growing areas outside capital cities</a> are those that offer sophisticated urban settings. They have diverse employment options and high-order social, education and healthcare infrastructure. So when people leave a capital city, more often than not <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Previousproducts/3218.0Feature%20Article12016-17?opendocument&amp;tabname=Summary&amp;prodno=3218.0&amp;issue=2016-17&amp;num=&amp;view=">they are moving to a large city</a>.

<h2>Will COVID-19 lead to growth in smaller centres?</h2>

Australia’s overall population growth has <a href="https://www.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/publications/planning-for-australia%27s-future-population.pdf">promoted the growth of capital cities and larger regional cities</a>. Some smaller communities, particularly high-amenity coastal towns, have also experienced periods of sustained population growth.

Distributing this growth further inland to smaller towns and cities is both possible and plausible.

A major barrier to population growth in smaller rural communities is the lack of diverse local employment options. For those who have made the transition to <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-could-spark-a-revolution-in-working-from-home-are-we-ready-133070">working fully or partially online</a> as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, <a href="https://theconversation.com/more-urban-sprawl-while-jobs-cluster-working-from-home-will-reshape-the-nation-144409">moving further from their workplace more permanently</a> – and perhaps to the country – could be on the cards.

<h2>So is there a pandemic-related exodus?</h2>

The COVID-19 pandemic is disrupting the way we live our lives but, no, there is not an exodus from Australia’s capital cities. For some, pandemic-related disruptions might have heightened their dissatisfaction with where they live. For others, working from home might have provided them with the opportunity to consider alternative living arrangements.

However, right now, given the data we have, it is unlikely that COVID-19 is driving a shift away from capital cities or city lifestyles.<img alt="The Conversation" height="1" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/154724/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important" width="1">

This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/has-covid-really-caused-an-exodus-from-our-cities-in-fact-moving-to-the-regions-is-nothing-new-154724">original article</a>.

 

<h2>READ MORE:</h2>

<a href="/expert-insights/buying/regional-markets-see-a-significant-increase-in-value-corelogic" target="_blank">Regional markets see a significant increase in value: CoreLogic</a>

<a href="/expert-insights/buying/first-home-buyer-trends-will-2021-be-the-renaissance-of-the-suburbs" target="_blank">First home buyer trends: Will 2021 be the renaissance of the suburbs?</a>
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The 'exodus' from capital cities amounts to 0.06% of their populations – similar to recent years – and people are still moving to the cities. What's missing is growth driven by international migrants

Has COVID really caused an exodus from our cities? In fact, moving to the regions is nothing new

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EXPERT INSIGHT

This is largely conjecture, but as Sydney's rental market is steadily righting itself, Melbourne's inner city unit market may need to see rents falling by 50 per cent to fill up the empty units left in the wake of the repeated border closures and lockdowns. 

New South Wales is taking three times as many arrivals as Victoria through quarantine, which may be a part of the equation.

But just as pertinently the on again/off again closures and snap lockdowns will likely see thousands averting Victoria and heading to sunny south-east Queensland instead (and who can blame them?), especially as employers have become more open to the work from home phenomenon.

To be sure this is a rough and ready thesis, but I've seen parts of Noosa Shire with effectively zero rental vacancies lately, and without looking into it too deeply I wouldn't mind a bet that Gold Coast is heading in a similar direction.

A quick straw poll search of realestate.com.au for rental advertisements by Central Business District postcode shows:

<ul>
<li>Hobart TAS 7000 - 31 results</li>
	<li>Perth WA 6000 - 177 results</li>
	<li>Brisbane QLD 4000 - 384 results</li>
	<li>Sydney NSW 2000 - 437 results</li>
	<li>Adelaide SA 5000 - 487 results</li>
	<li>Melbourne VIC 3000 - 3,974 results</li>
</ul>
Granted this is lazy and half-baked analysis, but I also reckon it's pretty much indicative of the reality. 

If you include the city and its surrounding suburbs Melbourne blows out to 12,708 results, versus 2,309 for Sydney CBD and fringe, and 1,957 for Brisbane. 

That can only mean falling rents for Melbourne CBD and its immediate surrounds. 

A potential 50 per cent drop in rents is far from hyperbole: the 12-month change in asking rents for units in the Melbourne 3000 postcode is -33.3 per cent, according to SQM Research data.

For units in Docklands in Melbourne the 12-month change is -31.4 per cent.

Melbourne's loss is Queensland's gain. 
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Melbourne's inner city unit market may need to see rents falling by 50 per cent to fill up the empty units left in the wake of the repeated border closures and lockdowns

Melbourne's ongoing rental strife will lead to falling rents: Pete Wargent

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Super-prime properties with tennis courts are tightly held, rarely transacting across Australia, but according to the latest research from Knight Frank these sales spiked in 2020.

The Australian Residential Tennis Court Premium, which assesses the sales performance of Australian super-prime residential properties with a tennis court, found the volume of sales for these properties in 2020 far outstripped 2019.

Super-prime residential property* is the most desirable and most expensive property in a given location, generally defined as the top 1% of each market by value.

Across Australia’s major cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and the Gold Coast, the total value of transactions of super-prime residential sales with tennis courts was $682.8 million in 2020 across 38 transactions, up by 230% on a weak 2019, when there were just 14 transactions.

Knight Frank’s Head of Residential Research, Michelle Ciesielski said every Australian city analysed had overtaken the 2019 sales volume in 2020, with Sydney the strongest performing market.

“In 2020, Sydney saw $436.6 million of tennis court-featured super-prime sales across 22 transactions, although this total volume fell short by 3 per cent of surpassing its highest volume reached in 2018. Melbourne was next with $134.6 million worth of sales last year across nine transactions, although its greatest volume was recorded in 2016 at $156.2 million."

“Perth’s super-prime sales market recorded the greatest uptick of 453 per cent in properties with tennis courts over 2020, although that was across only two sales totalling $41.5 million, with the market much smaller than Sydney and Melbourne. Perth didn’t record any sales of this nature in 2016 and 2018."

“The Gold Coast lifestyle became more popular through COVID-19 resulting in last year being the only year in the past give to register any super-prime sales accommodating tennis courts, with a volume of $50 million – outperforming both the Brisbane and Perth markets, which recorded $20.1 million and $41.5 million in sales value," she concluded.

Based on sales since 2011, the top three suburbs in Australia for super-prime properties with tennis courts were Toorak in Melbourne (39 sales), Bellevue Hill in Sydney (23 sales) and Vaucluse and Mosman, which came equal third with 16 sales.
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Based on sales since 2011, the top three suburbs in Australia for super-prime properties with tennis courts were Toorak in Melbourne and Bellevue Hill in Sydney

jordan_55689

Sales of super-prime tennis court properties soared in 2020

First home buyers have been driving enquiry for the new Sutherland development Grand Vermont, which is nearing completion.

The 100-residence project&nbsp;at 48 Vermont Street, Sutherland, is being developed jointly by construction veterans and well known property developers Home Constructions and Holis.

Benson McCormack Architects have handled the design of the building, with a sleek and unique fa&ccedil;ade the stand out, with the curved architecture encapsulating residents from the street below.

<a href="/buildings/grand-vermont-48-vermont-street-sutherland"><img alt="" height="877" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grand_vermont_sutherland_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

HAUS Agency Director, Alex Vrisakis, said the development offers all the comforts you need in a first home, or perhaps to downsize from the family home.

&nbsp;&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing first home buyers from all over Sydney take advantage of up to $30,000* in Government first home buyer support.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89712]

Since its sales launch, Grand Vermont has sold over&nbsp;40% of apartments&nbsp;during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enquiries have come not just from within the Sutherland Shire, but from greater Sydney.&nbsp;

&ldquo;75% of enquiry on Grand Vermont has been from first home buyers, and 15% of enquiries have been from owner occupiers,&rdquo;&nbsp;Vrisakis said.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing interest not just the Shire, but areas like the North Shore, Inner West Corridor and the Illawara, from those looking for a sea change.&rdquo;

One bedroom apartments start from&nbsp;$550,000, with two bedrooms priced from $730,000, meaning there&#39;s no stamp duty to be paid on those bedroom configurations.

Three bedrooms start from $1.2 million.

The development is located 35 minutes by train to Sydney CBD, less than 5km to Westfield Miranda and&nbsp;Cronulla Beach.

Each of the one, two and three bedroom residences have been designed to capture as much light as possible.&nbsp;They all feature&nbsp;Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances and&nbsp;20mm Caesar Stone benchtops in the kitchen and&nbsp;Tongue n Groove engineered European oak flooring.

<a href="/buildings/grand-vermont-48-vermont-street-sutherland"><img alt="" height="895" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grand_vermont_sutherland_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

There is a lush communal landscaped outdoor area for residents which keeps&nbsp;strata fees low.

In 2020, Sutherland Shire was voted the #2 most liveable location in Australia in a survey by market research leaders Ipsos.

Find out why first home buyers are flocking to new Sutherland apartment development Grand Vermont

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There were 1,529 homes scheduled for auction across the combined capital cities last week, up from 1,304 over the previous week. 

Of the 1,191 results collected by CoreLogic so far, 86 per cent have reported a successful result, higher than last week’s preliminary auction clearance rate of 83 per cent which revised down to 79 per cent at final figures.

Over the same week last year, 1,596 homes were taken to auction and 73 per cent of reported results were successful. 

“While the preliminary clearance rate came in strong, it’s important to note that as remaining auctions are collected, we will likely collect more withdrawn results, particularly in Melbourne where another lockdown is currently in place, which would lower the final clearance rate,” CoreLogic’s Tim Lawless suggested.

Melbourne was set host to 668 auctions this week, up from 615 over the previous week.. Of the 467 results collected so far, 87 per cent were successful, up from last week’s preliminary clearance rate of 80 per cent, which was revised down to 76 per cent at final figures. 

Preliminary results show that 47.6 per cent of the successful auctions in Melbourne were sold prior, while so far, just 8 per cent have been reported as withdrawn which we expect will increase over the coming days as the remaining results are collected now that the city is back in a stage 4 lockdown which was only announced on early Friday afternoon..

In Sydney, 624 homes were taken to auction, compared to 447 over the previous week and 583 this time last year.

Sydney’s preliminary clearance rate came in at 87 per cent, down from the previous week’s preliminary clearance rate of 89 per cent, which revised down to 84 per cent at final figures. 

The same time last year saw 75 per cent of reported auctions were successful.

Across the smaller cities, Canberra recorded the highest preliminary clearance rate at 91 per cent, followed by Adelaide on 89 per cent, Brisbane at 62 percent and Perth at 42 percent.

Dr Andrew Wilson, chief economist at Archistar noted “home auction markets continued to report record-level results across-the-board at the  weekend as buyers compete fiercely to secure available property."
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Of the 1,191 results collected by CoreLogic so far, 86 per cent have reported a successful result

Auction wrap: What happened under the hammer on February 13?

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EXPERT OBSERVER

In the year to January, CoreLogic estimates that there were 459,308 properties transacted across Australia. Most of these sales were houses, rather than units.

It is not unusual for house sales to make up the majority of transactions, with houses making up an average 70.2% of annual sales volumes over the past decade. However, the share of houses as a portion of sales increased to 74.2% in the year to January 2021, up from 73.2% a year ago and 66.7% five years ago. Another way of thinking about it, is that for every 1 unit sold over the year, there were 2.9 house sales.

The table below shows the portion of sales over the year that were houses, compared with the decade average, for various regions. Most capital city and rest of state regions saw the portion of house sales elevated in the year to January, compared with the decade average. The general uplift in the share of sales that were houses through the year to January may be attributed to a few of factors.

<img alt="" height="959" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/house_portions_sales_.jpg" width="1600">

The introduction of HomeBuilder may have skewed demand toward houses. Since the announcement of HomeBuilder in June, new home sales have increased significantly. According to the HIA, new home sales in the December 2020 quarter were almost 100% higher than in December 2019.

However, the design of the scheme largely lent itself to new houses, as opposed to units. An example of this was the tight timelines for eligibility, where the commencement of a new property initially had to take place within three months of the contract date.

This meant the take up of the scheme was largely utilised for detached houses, rather than off the plan unit sales, with the latter requiring a number of purchaser commitments before the project commences.

This trend was reaffirmed in ABS dwelling approval data, where approvals for house builds were up 13.9% in the year to December 2020, compared with an -8.6% decline in units approvals. CoreLogic sales volumes only count new properties as sold upon settlement, so the portion of new home sales over 2020 may continue to trend even higher once new house builds are completed.

Eliza Owen is CoreLogic’s Head of Research Australia
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It is not unusual for house sales to make up the majority of transactions, with houses making up an average 70.2% of annual sales volumes over the past decade

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