Too often, heritage buildings become the podium for a contemporary tower. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/623-collins-607-623-collins-street-melbourne-vic-3000">623 Collins</a>, <a>Sterling Global</a> challenged its design team to reverse that process.

The brief to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> was deliberately simple: "Don't design around the heritage. Design from it." It became the philosophy behind a project that draws inspiration not only from two landmark heritage buildings, but from Collins Street itself, a street layered with architectural history and civic significance.

That philosophy has shaped one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a> CBD's most considered residential projects, where the 1924 State Savings Bank and neighbouring Batman's Hill Hotel have become the architectural foundation for 623 Collins rather than remnants preserved beneath a new development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372749]

Rather than approaching the site as a blank canvas, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sterling-global">Sterling Global</a> saw the existing buildings as the beginning of the story.

"Sites like this rarely become available," the developer said.

"623 Collins wasn't simply an opportunity to develop a prominent CBD site. It was an opportunity to restore and reimagine one of Melbourne's important heritage landmarks while contributing to the continued evolution of Collins Street. For us, the existing buildings weren't constraints. They were the beginning of the story."

Instead of mimicking the ornate heritage architecture, Plus Studio studied the proportions, rhythm and craftsmanship of the original buildings before translating those characteristics into a contemporary 42-storey tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372748]

"The brief challenged us to create a contemporary landmark that respected Melbourne's architectural history without becoming nostalgic," Plus Studio said.

"Rather than mimicking heritage, we sought to understand its proportions, rhythm and material language before translating those qualities into a distinctly contemporary architectural expression."

The practice says the State Savings Bank and Batman's Hill Hotel became the project's primary source of inspiration, allowing the heritage buildings and contemporary architecture to exist "in conversation rather than contrast." Generous planted terraces further soften the transition between old and new, creating elevated green spaces while reinforcing the dialogue between the restored podium and the contemporary tower.

That dialogue continues throughout the interiors, where Melbourne designer Fiona Lynch developed a material palette inspired by the idea of alchemy, balancing contrasting materials that reference both the Neo-Grec detailing of the original bank and contemporary urban living. The result is a series of spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=354343]

The project will deliver 316 residences across four collections, Heirloom, Signature, Reserve and the Penthouse Collection, with each responding differently to its position within the building, from the restored heritage podium through to the upper levels of the tower. The Heirloom Residences retain defining heritage elements including original heritage windows, generous proportions and high ceilings, while the tower introduces contemporary homes with expansive layouts and elevated views.

Amenities have likewise been designed to support long-term city living rather than short-stay convenience. Residents will have access to concierge services, wellness facilities including a pool, cold plunge, sauna, steam room and gym, alongside private lounges, entertaining spaces and dedicated resident clubs.

Sterling Global says that approach is resonating with buyers seeking permanence rather than novelty.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=354347]

According to the sales team, purchasers are looking for enduring architecture, generous floorplans, heritage character and long-term value, with many commenting that 623 Collins "doesn't feel like another apartment development" because of the way the architecture has been curated around the site's history.

Situated on the prominent corner of Collins and Spencer streets, the project occupies one of Melbourne's most recognisable gateway sites, marking the western entrance to the city's best-known street. For Sterling Global, it also reflects a broader shift in city-making.

"Rather than maximising development yield, the project embraces adaptive reuse as a design philosophy, allowing heritage to inform architecture, interiors and the overall resident experience," the developer said.

"The result is a building that feels uniquely connected to Melbourne."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145324]

Joel Robinson

How Sterling Global designed 623 Collins from Melbourne's history

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

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

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

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

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

<html><body>
If you want to know where interest rates are going, watch the impact of the China slowdown on the New South Wales economy.
This month's rate cut by the Reserve Bank was extra ‘insurance’ – the bank looked at recent developments in China, and didn’t like what it saw. Yet, arguably, those happiest to hear the news were mortgage holders in NSW – Australia’s most indebted state.
China’s slowdown is bad news for Australia as a whole, just as China’s earlier strength was good for us. And NSW was a net beneficiary of the good years – the extra national income boosted business for Sydney’s finance sector (credit growth surged as we borrowed big-time) and for its professional services (amid lots of mergers and acquisitions), while families benefited from a series of tax cuts paid for by China and from the extra purchasing power delivered by rising housing prices and a rising Australian dollar.
Yet NSW benefited less than the rest of Australia. The tsunami in development dollars aimed at chasing China’s mega-mining projects in Western Australia and Queensland rather than in NSW (though both coal and gold have seen good money spent in this state). And ‘people power’ followed those development dollars, with NSW’s population growth lagging badly. In turn, that combination of weakness in capital expenditure and population growth then fed back into weaker growth by eating into the capacity of the state to produce.
Finally, Deloitte Access Economics has long since labelled the lift in exchange and interest rates which accompanied the China boom as a ‘deadly duo’ for NSW’s economy: higher interest rates were toxic in a state with Australia’s largest residential mortgages, and the $A played merry hell with businesses in the state’s manufacturing, tourism and international education sectors.
So while NSW did well out of the China-and-mining-and-engineering-construction boom, it hasn’t been a bed of roses.
Accordingly, China’s slowdown isn’t unalloyed bad news for the ‘Premier State’.
Or, to be more exact, it won’t be. The Reserve Bank has already moved rates down, and chances are there’s more good news still to be had on that score.  But the $AU still holds a sting.  Deloitte Access Economics doesn’t forecast that disconnect between the dollar and its fundamentals (commodity prices and interest rates) to linger. But the longer it does, the longer that the bad news out of China will be matchingly bad for NSW.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
That’s why watching the Australian dollar and the Reserve Bank will mean watching prospects for NSW’s economy, with those likely to be tightly linked over the next two years.
In the meantime, the momentum in the state’s economy has held up pretty well given the headwinds to date.  Housing construction looks like finally getting off the floor, retail turnover growth is keeping pace with national outcomes, and population growth has turned the corner (albeit still lagging national growth, and by a growing margin).  And although job growth is in the slow lane and job vacancies are weak, unemployment is impressively low.
Rather, this state’s Achilles heel remains capital spending – businesses have less to be excited about in NSW’s future and, developments in China notwithstanding, that won’t change fast.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/10/david-graph.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/10/david-graphthumb.gif"></a>
NSW output and demand (inflation-adjusted data, change on year earlier) Accordingly, the business backdrop of the moment for businesses in NSW is one in which China’s slowdown is bad news for Australia, but will be relatively less bad for NSW, especially once our dollar stops defying gravity.  That drives the patterns seen in the short term (a slowdown that stabilises soon) and in the medium term (further losses as a share of Australia, particularly in the next couple of years in which resource construction will continue to drive good growth in some other states).
David Rumbens is a partner at<a target="_blank" href="https://www.deloitteaccesseconomics.com.au/"> Deloitte Access Economics.</a>
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.leadingcompany.com.au/">LeadingCompany</a>
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

China's economic slowdown and NSW's economy hold the keys to the next RBA interest rate cut: David Rumbens

<html><body>
As you will quickly discover, finding suitable commercial property investments comes down to a numbers game. And interestingly, many people consider these current times to be a buyers' market.
However, as a serious investor, you will have found it difficult to identify many really top-notch properties right now. And at the moment, this is probably your number-one concern.
When I'm helping clients to acquire an investment property, half my task is involved in actually finding it. The other half relates to packaging the deal under contract, carrying out the due diligence, arranging finance and bedding down the ongoing management.
And as I said, it is purely a numbers game — and one that requires a considerable degree of persistence.
The 20:5:2:1 Rule
While you might initially look at some 20 properties, you will probably only end up shortlisting five of them at best.
From there, you'll then undertake a more thorough analysis, to decide which of those properties best meet your specific investment objectives and buying criteria.
If you're lucky, you may end up with two properties to choose from. But invariably, it is only one property that will stand out as being suitable.
Only then do you enter the second phase of the acquisition process.
Improving your choice
Therefore, how can you ensure a reasonable selection of properties to choose from?
It all comes down to having a wide network of selling agents who know that you are continually in the market for good property.
Even though these agents are clearly acting for their vendors in each transaction, what you are really seeking is "advance notice" of potential deals before they officially reach the market.
And you achieve this through building relationships with the various agents and being a proven performer over time.
When acting for clients, this has probably been my greatest asset, having this "insider knowledge" of what's going on in the market, at any given time.
Bottom line: Over the past few weeks, I have dispelled a number of the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/commercial/five-common-myths-about-commercial-property-investment-chris-lang/2012092456772" target="_parent">more common myths.</a> And also spent some time explaining the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/commercial/five-reasons-why-serious-property-investors-prefer-commercial-over-residential-chris-lang/2012100957035" target="_blank">five key reasons why investors prefer owning commercial property</a>.
However, your ongoing success hinges upon having a ready choice of properties. And unfortunately, you'll find the internet is often of little help in uncovering the really great deals.
Therefore, you need to invest the time and effort to create your own system for finding suitable properties. Or simply, put together a team of proven professionals charged with looking after your best interests.
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors and gives keynote speeches and regular seminars on the best way to invest in commercial property. He maintains a blog, <a href="https://bitly.com/IFf40C">his-best.biz</a>, which he updates regularly about the best way to get the most out of your commercial property investment.
</body></html>

chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

Commercial property investment by the numbers

<html><body>
The number of newly advertised homes for sale last month has risen from last month in every state but is down in NT and ACT, according to RP Data.
There were 49,173 new listings for the four weeks to October 7 across Australia, compared with 43,624 for the four weeks to September 9.
The number 0f properties for sale in Queensland rose the most for the month, jumping from 10,926 to 12,681.
Numbers in NSW rose from 12,519 to 13,893, numbers in Victoria rose from 10,051 to 11,875, WA rose from 5,283 to 5,656, SA rose from 2,757 to 2,999, and Tasmania rose from 1,121 to 1,196.
In the ACT the number of properties advertised for sale dropped from 600 to 521, and NT numbers dropped from 367 to 352.
Across Australia the number of advertised listings rose from 279,882 to 288,609.
The number of newly listed properties across Australia is the highest since early April of this year, RP Data says.
Year on year, the figures are still down for every state.
There were 49,173 new listings last month across Australia, compared with 56,786 for the same time last year.
New South Wales experienced the most drastic change, dropping from 17,619 to 13,893.
Numbers in Victoria dropped from 13,541 to 11,875.
Others states weren’t as drastic, with the number of new listings in Queensland slipping from 12,842 to 12,681, WA slipping from 6,451 to 5,656 , SA slipping from 3,829 to 2,999, NT from 409 to 352, ACT from 672 to 521 and Tasmania slipping from 1,423 to 1,196.
“Despite the rise in new listings, the number of properties being added to the market is 13.4% lower than what was recorded at the same time last year,” RP Data says.
“With new listings tracking low and some absorption of properties being readvertised, the total number of homes available for sale nationally is now just 1.7% lower than at the same time last year.
“Across the capital cities, total listings in the market are now 1.3% lower than last year.”
The total number of stock is slightly up from last year across Australia, rising from 283,856 to 288,609.
NT, WA and Queensland were the only states where total numbers of property available dropped slightly year on year.
Proportionally, NT had the greatest fall, dropping from 2019 to 1,684.
<table width="428" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="48">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
New  listings  last  month
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
Previous  month
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
Same  time  last  year
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
Total  listings
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
Previous  month
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
Same time  last  year
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
12,681
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
10,926
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-12,842
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
83,985
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
81,809
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-87,018
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
13,893
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
12,519
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-17,619
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
74,634
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
71,828
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-73,989
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Vic
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
11,875
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
10,051
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-13,541
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
65,999
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
63,195
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-59,206
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
5,656
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
5,283
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-6,451
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
30,080
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
29,542
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-31,775
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
2,999
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
2,757
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-3,829
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
18,747
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
18,372
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-17,775
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
NT
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
352
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
367
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-409
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
1,684
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
1,757
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-2,019
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
ACT
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
521
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
600
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-672
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
1,982
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
1,988
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-1,733
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Tas
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
1,196
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
1,121
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-1,423
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
11,498
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
11,391
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-10,341
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Aus
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
49,173
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
43,624
</td>
<td valign="top" width="58">
-56,786
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
288,609
</td>
<td valign="top" width="66">
279,882
</td>
<td valign="top" width="65">
-283,856
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Number of new properties listed for sale rises in every state in last month: RP Data

<html><body>
Two-thirds of borrowers who have a mortgage with a bank believe they could be getting a better mortgage deal by refinancing with a new lender, according to research by Ernst &amp; Young.
However, many give up at the early stages of the mortgage application process or turn to a mortgage broker for help.
These were the key findings of a survey of 635 respondents across the  big four banks as well as regional banks carried out as part of Ernst &amp; Young’s customer experience series.
Research by Ratecity.com.au finds that <a href="/news">three of the four lenders to have passed on the full October rate cut are small lenders</a> led by bankmecu, which is offering a standard variable rate of 5.49% – 108 basis points lower than the lowest standard variable rate offered of the big four (NAB, 6.58%).
According to the Ernst &amp; Young survey, when applying for a mortgage, a third of customers give up at the "information gathering" stage because of "too much choice" and a lack of simple and clear information.
It also found that 60% of people who initiated the mortgage application process ended up finalising it and getting a mortgage, but the remaining 40% dropped off along the way.
“It sounds simple enough, but banks need to focus their efforts on that initial step – when customers first put their mortgage feelers out. They need to ensure the information available via all their channels is in plain English and provides real comparisons for customers, in other words it doesn’t require high levels of financial literacy to make sense of it,” says Ernst &amp; Young’s John Rolland
“We know Australians are time poor. They feel a lack of control over their lives and, as such, don’t like complex decision-making. This means they default to the simplest tools that help them in their everyday decisions.
“While choice is obviously a good thing for consumers, there is such a thing as ‘choice overload’ – even in banking when competition is a good thing.
“It’s a sign of our times that people looking for a mortgage are feeling overwhelmed by the vast array of mortgage products as well as the number of mortgage lenders, and don’t know where to start."
Another finding was that 80% of customers who embarked on the mortgage or switching process started without involving a broker or third party – significantly below the 42% share of the mortgage distribution market that brokers are estimated to hold.
This suggests that many borrowers choose to engage a mortgage broker after finding the application process to difficult or frustrating to do on their own.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Two-thirds of borrowers open to switching lenders for better deal: Ernst & Young

<html><body>
Australian-owned transport and logistics firm Australian Container Freight Services (ACFS) will pay $800,000 per annum net to lease an office/warehouse property at Tottenham in Melbourne’s western industrial precinct in a deal  negotiated by Savills Australia.
The 33-65 Paramount Road property comprises a 15,150-square-metre office/warehouse facility with a huge canopy, three recessed loading docks and a large concrete hardstand area.
The short-term leas deal was brokered by Savills industrial agents Greg Jensz  and Tim Casanelia.
"The facility will give the firm room to move as it manages its expansion in the nation’s transport and logistics capital. The location – five kilometres from Melbourne's port with excellent access to major arterials via Sunshine Road – was also a key consideration,’’ says Jensz.
ACFS will move from its current home at Port Melbourne.
 The lessor is a private Geelong-based investor.
</body></html>

Transport group ACFS to lease 15,000-square-metre Melbourne warehouse at $800,000 per annum

<html><body>
The practical completion of the Convesso and Serrata apartment projects in Victoria Harbour at Melbourne's Docklands helped push up Lend Lease apartment sales over 2012, but the overall residential outlook remains challenging with residential lot settlements down 10%.
Settlements on Victorian apartments rose from 351 to 523 over the 2012 financial year ending June 30, 2012, with the average price paid decreasing by 12% to $1.05 million.
Just 15 units remain available for purchase in Convesso, which features 220 one-, two- and three-bedroom units, one half of Lend Lease's flagship Convesso Concavo development.
Prices range from $530,000 for a one-bedroom apartment to more than $5 million for a 329 square metre three-bedroom marina home apartment.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/seven-sub-%24600000-units-left-in-newly-completed-docklands-development-serrata-as-june-30-deadline-draws-closer/2012061255046" target="_blank">Only seven remain available in Serrata</a>, a joint venture project with Japanese developer Sekisui House, featuring 83 two-bedroom apartments and 61 one-bedders, with one-bedders priced between $425,000 and $465,000.
Lend Lease also recorded strong sales at Silk and Antias at Jackson's Landing on the northern peninsula of Pyrmont, in inner Sydney.
“The current year includes a high proportion of mid-market apartments settled at Serrata and Antias,” added Lend Lease.
The developer settled 2,059 land lots in the year to June with a value of $461 million, down from 2,299 settlements in the previous financial year worth $497 million, with the average price per residential land lot increasing by 3% from $216,300 to $223,600. The company says this is "reflecting a change in the product mix compared to the prior year".
Lend Lease said the drop in settlements was principally the result of fewer settlements in Victoria and South Australia, “reflecting current market conditions and a number of projects approaching completion”.
Pre-sales (contracts that had not settled prior to June 30) totalled a further 1,369 units, with a combined value of $278 million.
Lend Lease has a pipeline of 70,500 units in its various residential projects, including joint venture projects.
The developer says “weak consumer sentiment continues to impact the residential market in Australia, resulting in lower enquiry levels, longer conversion times and lower trading levels”.
Lend Lease is looking to increase its presence in Western Australia, having being selected by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority (MRA) as the preferred proponent for the $1 billion Waterbank mixed-use redevelopment in Perth.
Lend Lease reported operating profit after tax of $507.2 million for the 2012 financial year, a 4.5% increase on the prior year.
</body></html>

Docklands apartment sales help Lend Lease weather challenging residential market conditions

Victoria&#39;s demand at auction is not consistent across the city, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. Demand is highest in the inner-eastern suburbs.<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="264" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/51390000?title=1&amp;byline=0&amp;portrait=0&amp;color=9c9c9c&amp;autoplay=1" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="470"></iframe>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Victorian property market above trend for the year: REIV

<html><body>
The property market has delivered yet another weekend of solid results with clearance rates above 60%, adding to hope that a prolonged period of economic stability and interest rate cuts will continue to send prices higher.
The news follows the release of figures from RP Data that showed prices increased 1.2% in September, while the RBA cut interest rates two weeks ago – and is expected to do so again next month.
And in a big sign of confidence, a key indicator in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/052284-rate-cut-does-little-for-consumer-confidence-westpac-survey-reveals">Westpac consumer sentiment survey</a> found more people are optimistic about buying a house, even though overall consumer confidence is still mild.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 62%. Although that's down from last week's 62%, it still manages to beat last year's corresponding rate of 54%.
There were 578 auctions reported, and a further 690 are expected next weekend. And in Sydney, results were similar, with Sydney recording 58% on 606 auctions, compared to 60% last week and 55% last year.
Australian Property Monitors economist Andrew Wilson says the results are, once again, encouraging – but the industry isn't getting too hopeful too soon.
"Certainly, the market is building on some reasonable momentum," Wilson told SmartCompany this morning.
"But markets remain mixed, and consumer sentiment is still reasonably fragile. There is no doubt confidence is returning, and we're seeing higher listings, but I think it's still going to take time."
"At the very least, it's holding."
Wilson says the market doesn't need a jolt of confidence, but rather a steady rise in optimism which can only be achieved through stability in international financial markets, and possibly another interest rate cut next month.
"The Reserve Bank is certainly on watch with regard to the international economy and concerns over the strength of the resources boom. We're seeing those underlying drivers right now, but it will just take time."
"There's nothing to get too excited about just yet. But it's starting to build momentum."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
</body></html>

pmcstafford-pr9eMARWoN

Auction clearance rates up on last year

<html><body>
The number of owner-occupier home loan commitments rose by a better than expected 1.8% in August to 45,821 loans, according to the latest seasonally adjusted ABS figures.
That was from an upwardly revised 45,021 loan commitments in July and above economist expectations of a 1.5% monthly rise.
The increase in home loan commitments in August follows RBA cash rate cuts in May and June totalling 75 basis points.
"A modest upward trend in housing finance to owner-occupiers is now apparent. New lending trended 1.2% higher in August, a turnaround from modest trend declines over the first five months of the year," says Westpac. "A greater number of FHBs are likely to enter the market over coming months, in what is the 'spring season', encouraged by improved housing affordability underpinned by lower interest rates.  "With the RBA more concerned about downside risks to economic growth over the year ahead there will be increased focus on the strength of the housing sector upswing and the likely boost to housing construction activity. "
The number of mortgage commitments for the purchase of new dwellings rose by a strong 13.9% to 2,341 in August, according to the ABS.
The number of loan commitments for the purchase of established dwellings rose 1.3% to 38,238.
In value terms owner occupier loans rose 1.3% to $13.65 billion.
Total housing finance by value rose by 0.6%, seasonally adjusted, to $20.3 billion.
On a state-by-state basis, whereas WA was the only state to record a rise for July, strength was more widespread in August, noted Westpac.
"For August, gains were reported for NSW (3.3%), Tasmania (3.3%), Queensland (4.1%), as well as WA (1.2%). Victoria softened for a second month (-1.2% following -1.1%), representing a let down effect in the wake of state government changes to first-home buyer incentives," says  Westpac.
First-home buyers share of finance declined to 18.6% from 19.2% for July, but Westpac says this is likely to be a short-lived dip. 
Loans for investment purposes recorded a 0.8% decline for August.
Housing Industry Association (HIA) chief economist Dr Harley Dale says the 2.6% increase in total housing finance net of refinancing in August 2012 marked the sixth consectutive rise.
"That is encouraging, but the base for the recovery has to date been too narrow.
"A recovery in the number of loans to first time owner occupiers appears to be entrenching itself, but lending to the larger ‘trade-up’ owner-occupier market has been losing momentum since March.”
“On the new home front, lending for the purchase of new dwellings increased strongly in August, which is an encouraging result, although a flat month in terms of loans for construction was disappointing.”
“After posting a strong increase in June, the number of loans for the construction of owner occupied dwellings largely flat-lined in July and again in August.
"Meanwhile, lending for the construction of new investment properties has been trending down since March.
"Hopefully interest rate cuts together with policy initiatives in NSW and Queensland will see a sustained improvement emerge in these key construction lending figures,” says Dale.
</body></html>

Home loan numbers rise 1.8% in August with strong bounce in new home lending: ABS

<html><body>
Using median values analysis for houses rather than median prices, RP Data has been able to identify Australia’s most expensive locations for home ownership.
The data was based on RP Data’s estimates of the value of virtually every residential property across the country and then taken the middle value for each suburb. This approach yielded a much more reliable indication of what a buyer is likely to pay for the typical house within a suburb, compared with the median price, which is based on only those homes that have sold during the period.
The suburbs on the RP Data Rich List show quite a few factors in common: they tend to either be close to a CBD, close to the water, or they are houses within the suburbs that often have a heritage value and are perched on larger blocks of land. Many of the suburbs show a combination of all these factors.
A majority of Australia’s elite real estate markets are clustered around the harbourside suburbs of Sydney, with the exclusive suburb of Point Piper topping the list with a median value of $7.382 million.
Not surprisingly, based on ATO statistics, Point Piper average individual incomes are the highest in the nation, averaging just over $182,000.
Point Piper also has a very high rate of home ownership. Recent census data confirmed that there are only 148 detached houses in the suburb of Point Piper and with 57% of them owned outright.
While there are many areas on the Top 25 List, of note is the Gold Coast suburb of Main Beach, which is Queensland’s most expensive suburb for houses; a factor which is assisted by the absolute scarcity of houses compared with units in the suburb.
Interestingly, Main Beach has a mere 88 detached houses within the suburb, equating to just 5.9% of all dwellings.
Across the top 25 most expensive suburbs nationally, only three are located further than 10km from the capital city CBD, with one of the exceptions being Eagle Bay in the Margaret River region of Western Australia where the median house value is $2.86 million, and the most expensive home currently on the market is priced at $10.5 million.
Battery Point is the only suburb in Australia where it costs less than $1 million to buy into the most elite housing market. Battery Point currently has a median house value of $861,560 placing the suburb at position 365 on the Rich List.
Story continues on page 2. Please click below.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
The vast majority of people can’t afford to buy or, for that matter, rent in these suburbs. In fact, the population living within the most expensive 25 suburbs accounts for just 0.5% of Australia’s population.
With four consecutive months of growth now in the housing market, it is safe to say the Australian housing market has moved into a recovery phase. Sydney and Melbourne are leading the way with values up 4% respectively since the end of May.
The Reserve Bank’s October rate cut is likely to provide further stimulus to the housing market and it will be important to monitor how consumers respond to the more affordable housing environment.
The RBA will undoubtedly be aiming to find the monetary policy sweet spot that keeps a lid on housing prices while ensuring financial stability.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/10/expens.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/10/expensthumb.gif"></a>
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">RP Data.</a>
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
</body></html>

Latest Expert Insights

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

Guides

Editor's Picks

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Expert Insights

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

Guides

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News