<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Joel Robinson

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

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

Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111820 project_image_fid=344699]

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374084]

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4553]

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul>
	<li>Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li>10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li>An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li>Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li>No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li>Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li>Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul>
	<li>Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li>Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li>Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li>Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

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?

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The rich are getting poorer, according to the recently released BRW Rich 200 list. 
The fact is that more than half (104) had a decrease in wealth over the past 12 months, even though they are far from poor.
This year, Gina Rinehart was the richest person in Australia and became the richest woman in the world. The 58-year-old mining magnate's wealth has ballooned by $18.87 billion in the past year to $29.17 billion. That equates to more than $1 million for every half-an-hour and almost $52 million a day.
By the way, Rinehart’s wealth is approximately equal to the wealth of the bottom half of the list.
What can we learn from Australia's wealthiest individuals?
Firstly, despite all the attention the mining billionaires have received, property still remains the single biggest source of wealth, with 55 real estate entrepreneurs in the top 200 list. Many of those who didn't make their fortunes in property have stored their wealth by investing in property.
This should come as no surprise. Looking back over the years, no matter how the Australian economy changes, the Rich 200 has always been dominated by property entrepreneurs.
Remember, there's nothing wrong with seeing what other successful people do and applying those principles to your own life. If so many extraordinarily wealthy people have used real estate profitably, it stands to reason that there's money to be made in this sector.
Here are some other lessons I learned by reading the various entrepreneurs' stories.
Anyone can become rich in Australia
While 29 of those on the list inherited some of their fortune, most were self-made successes, some coming from working-class backgrounds.
Attending a private school and an elite education is clearly not a prerequisite to joining Australia’s wealthy. While some forged important networks at school, many went to public schools and others didn’t even finish high school. In fact, less than half have tertiary qualifications.
And, of course, the richest person in Australia is a woman. This year there are 15 other women on the Rich 200 List. 
The markets move in cycles
The stock market is down, commercial property markets are down and high-end residential property values have fallen. This caused the average wealth of those on the list (other than Rinehart) to fall 8.6%. 
However, in the past, many successful investors took advantage of the opportunities to buy assets when they were on special. So it will be interesting to see the results next year and how these countercyclical investors fair.
Warren Buffett’s famous quote sums up the lesson in this: "Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful."
 
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Here are some quick takeaway points to consider:
Make your millions and then reinvest it – don't spend it. This is really just using the power of compounding to grow your asset base before you start spending up big.
Take risks early on, but not once you are established. While many entrepreneurs took big risks to get their enterprises going, successful investors then preserved their wealth by cautiously investing rather than taking further risks.
Have one good idea and repeat it. One core trait that successful entrepreneurs share is the ability to take a good idea and repeat it over and over again. Look through the list and you’ll see so many entrepreneurs stick to the same concept for years and just expand in different locations.
Pick the trends. This is different to picking fads, which are transient.
Go for growth. Sure, cashflow is important but to become really rich you need a large asset base. While the average Australian tries to increase their cashflow, the wealthy are obsessed with building their asset base. Much the same as those on the BRW Rich 200 list who concentrate on building their balance sheets even more than they do on their profit and loss accounts.
Surround yourself with a good team. As I've often said – if you are the smartest person in your team, you are in trouble.
Take action. All the people who made it onto this year's BRW Rich 200 list started with a dream and then took action.
You’re never too young and you’re never too old. The youngest member of the BRW Rich 200 is aged 36 and has an estimated wealth of $915 million, which is even more than the oldest member, who at the age of 92 has accumulated $360 million.
And if all else fails: Try digging some dirt, you may find some valuable minerals.
What have you learned from Australia's richest people? What can you do differently to become a successful property investor and get ahead of the pack?
Please leave your comments below.
 Michael Yardney is the director of <a href="https://www.metropole.com.au/">Metropole Property Investment Strategists</a> , a best-selling author and one of Australia's leading experts in wealth creation through property. He also writes the <a href="https://www.propertyupdate.com.au/">Property Investment Update</a> blog.
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The BRW Rich List proves that property is still a path to wealth

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The RBA cut rates by a further, 25 basis points on Tuesday, June 5.
This should not have been a surprise especially when one considers what is happening in Europe and the US and our own retail sectors, it would have to take a toll on public confidence.
I would say it’s all about the rest of the world and we needed a buffer to help us through the next few years of turmoil.
The US jobs came in worse than expected, and there is no short-term solution in sight for Europe, and its long-term outlook is bleak. I would anticipate 10 years of no growth in Europe.
The US will enter a long period of small to moderate growth as it attempts to pay down their debt.
Fundamental to both is that they have an ageing population and similar to Japan, which has had no growth for about 21 years, both Europe and to a lesser extent the US have record levels of debt. An ageing population means spending decreases, and when spending slows economic activity slows, which means higher unemployment and lower tax revenue. Japan had an extremely tight immigration policy, which means very few immigrants were allowed into the country.
Natural births to replace an aging population have two disadvantages.
It generally takes 21 years of investing into a newborn before he or she is old enough to work, plus a further two years training on-the-job to attain a skill before he or she can start contributing.
This is slow and a highly costly process. Also, the number of children per household has dropped over the years. There is also no guarantee that job sectors that have skill shortages can be filled, because there is no guarantee that Australians will go into those areas even after they have attained the necessary skills, qualifications and experience.
Immigration, on the other hand, has many advantages for a young country such as ours.
It means one can select the skilled people required and only allow those who have those skills into the country in areas where we are experiencing a shortage in, or restrict their entry conditions to areas that have a skill shortage. They are already trained and the training paid for by another country; they are immediately productive and can pay taxes; they also create an immediate demand for services such as homes, cars, schools, food and other services creating economic growth and prosperity where as an ageing population reduces their spending as they have less need for things such as larger homes and cars and school fees for education, etc.
In Australia unlike Europe, Japan and even the US we have a robust and healthy immigration policy allowing in around 250,000 to 350,000 people annually. Our unemployment rate is 4.8%, and this is considered full employment. Much of this can be attributed to Australians not being prepared to travel to take up jobs in mining towns and other areas that are perhaps hard to get to or other occupations that perhaps Australians are not prepared to accept. One will never achieve 0% unemployment.
 
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Despite fears that immigrants will take Australian jobs and I have heard this statement for over 40 years, the fact is that our long-term average unemployment rates have always sat at around 5.5%. This is considered full employment. Naturally there are times when it has hit around 10% but it generally does not stay at that rate for very long as long as there is economic growth.
However one must be careful and selective about immigration because it can change the nature and landscape of the country. Allowing people into a country with different values and beliefs can cause social unrest. One must balance economic wellbeing with the type of social fabric we want the country to become. However that simply comes down to tighter government policies about the type and quality of people that are permitted to come into this country.
Economically there are very sound reasons for a healthy immigration policy balanced with a socially responsible selection process should provide the best outcome.
While Australia does have a two-speed economy, certain industries such as mining are doing extremely well where other industries such as retail are not doing so well. With what is happening in Europe and the US, global market sentiment is a huge factor that affects our economy. This is proven true by our record savings in this country since the GFC as the general population adopted a defensive stance such as savings and paying down their debt, as opposed to an aggressive growth strategy such as leveraging through increased debt.
I believe the RBA has got it right with the recent 0.25 percentage point drop in interest rates leaving it more room to move if the world economy deteriorates further. This will give the property market a little optimism.
There is also a two-speed property market. The higher end market has continued to drop in value albeit it has slowed and some say even bottomed but the lower end market has shown stability and in some areas have shown growth. However when one averages all the markets together it distorts what is really happening at a micro level. Hence when the averages are reported that house prices in the Australian capitals fell 1.4% in May to the lowest level in six years it really is a distortion of what is happening at a micro level. It simply means one has to be much more careful and selective and do much more research to buy properties that are doing well.
Gone are the days when one could buy any property in any area and you could sit back and watch your properties grow in value.
 Ed Chan is a founding partner of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/">Chan and Naylor</a> accountants and a leading property tax specialist. He has co-authored three best-selling books as a seasoned property investor who understands the relationship between property investment and tax.
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Increased – and selective – skilled immigration needed to help Australia’s economy

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According to data produced by the Victorian government, renters in regional areas of the state move more frequently than those in the metropolitan area.
In Melbourne the average tenancy duration in the December quarter last year was 25.9 months – i.e. just over two years. In regional Victoria the comparative number was a shorter 22.7 months – just under two years.
These numbers are skewed by some very-long-term tenancies, as the median – the middle value – is much lower.
In Melbourne the median tenancy duration was a short 17 months. In regional Victoria it was 15 months.
The data also shows that, as would be expected, the smaller the dwelling, the shorter the tenancy. In both the metropolitan and regional areas one bedroom homes have the shortest median tenancy of just 14 months. This is a very popular form of rental home. Census data from 2006 shows that there are proportionally fewer small flats or units being occupied by their owners – the majority are rented.
Interestingly, the largest homes, those with four or more bedrooms have a shorter tenancy – 16 months – compared with 18 for both two- and three bedrooms. This will be, in part, because two- and three-bedroom houses and units make up the majority of rented housing.
The average duration of tenancy is certainly lower than it is for owner-occupied housing and that is one of the advantages for people who prefer to rent than buy. If an owner-occupier sought to sell and move every two years they would find their equity was eroded by the stamp duty incurred each time.
Enzo Raimondo is CEO of the <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">Real Estate Institute of Victoria</a>.
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enzoraimond-7fvRFHPR52

Regional Victorian renters move more often than their Melbourne counterparts

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There were 845 sales in Perth this week, and 38 of them were in the northern Perth suburb of Highgate, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia. There were 779 sales the same week last year and just 526 the same week last year. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/reiwajune8.jpg">
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Perth records 845 sales this week, with Highgate most actively traded suburb: REIWA

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24 Kamilaroi Road, Gunnedah, NSW, 2380
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/kamilaroi.jpg" width="470">
This could be a two-in one investment, with two two-bedroom units on one title. They are both recently renovated and are rented out for $200 each. The tenants are on month-to-month leases, and Gunnedah First National agent Mike Brady says they could return $240 per week. The property is close to downtown Gunnedah, and both units include their own carports. 
Brady<a target="_blank" href="https://www.firstnational.com.au/?pageCall=property&amp;propertyID=2068000&amp;realestate=24_Kamilaroi_Road_GUNNEDAH_NSW_2380"> is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $360,000 plus, and if it sells for $360,000 that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.8% at its current rental, below the gross indicative yield of 6.3% for Gunnedah units, according to RP Data. If both units were rented at $240, that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 6.9% The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
The median unit price in Gunnedah fell 2.9% in the past year, according to RP Data.
<a href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT" target="_blank">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $4,000 and over five years to be $9,000.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, June 9 at 10am and will go to auction Thursday, July 12 at 4pm.
For more about prices and yields in Gunnedah, see the RP Data suburb page.
For another investment prospect open for inspection this weekend, see page 2.
 
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2 Tattler Court, Point Cook, VIC, 3030
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/06/tattler.jpg">
The tenants of this four-bedroom Poink Cook house are paying $320 per week and are on a lease until April 2013. The property is close to Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre, schools, parks and public transport and is at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac. 
Little Residential agent Mark Clayton <a target="_blank" href="https://www.littleresidential.com.au/Buying/Search/Detail.aspx?id=JWI3509&amp;wlid=1d98757c-1181-4cb5-ad8a-b521af2d38dd">is marketing the property</a> with price hopes of $370,000 plus, and if it sells for that price that would secure an investor a gross rental yield of 5.8%. This is significantly above the indicative gross rental yield for Point Cook houses of 4.2%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees.
<a href="https://calc.washingtonbrown.com.au/wbdcalculator/calculator.aspx?RID=HPCAZOPTTT" target="_blank">Washington Brown</a> estimates the first-year tax depreciation deduction to be $10,000 and over five years to be $31,000.
The property will be open for inspection Saturday, June 9 at 10am and will go to auction Saturday, June 16 at 11.30am.
For more information about prices and yields in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Point Cook, see the RP Data suburb page.</a>
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Friday form guide: Yields of up to 6.9% in Gunnedah

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Sixteen months in the planning, Ultimo project Trieste is the latest inner-city apartment block to hit the market, possibly just in time for last-minute purchasers to buy a property under $600,000 before the government’s stamp duty exemption ends on July 30.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste1.jpg">
The eight-storey, 124-apartment complex will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with one-bedroom units starting from $455,000. Under the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/time-running-out-for-first-home-bonuses-and-stamp-duty-concessions/2012052854863" target="_blank">NSW government’s home builders’ bonus</a>, buyers will pay no stamp duty on properties purchased before June 30 this year. It is open to owner-occupiers and investors.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste2.jpg">
The development will launch to VIPs the weekend of June 16 and is within walking distance of Chinatown, Sydney CBD and Darling Harbour. Developer EDG Capital is encouraging residents to walk or bike, as the development will have just 35 car spaces.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste3.jpg">
The project is being marketed by Savills agents Nigel Napoli and Peter Coulton.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste4.jpg">
Savills expects that buyers will embrace its new project, even though those at the more affordable end of the market will have just a few weeks to make up their minds in order to secure the government’s bonus.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste5.jpg">
“The project team has spent the past 12 months meticulously planning every detail of the building and interiors to ensure that Trieste is truly a world-class project,” says Coulton. “We are excited about the upcoming launch and with the level of demand for this location.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste6.jpg">
“Trieste is set to be our most successful launch this year.”
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste7.jpg">
Many of the larger apartments will have “postcard views” of Sydney CBD, Savills says.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/trieste8.jpg">
The developer bought the 1,515-square-metre site, which included a commercial building, in early 2011 for $16.75 million.
The project has been designed by Candalepas Associates to allow for maximum light and air flow and to capitalise on “postcard views of Sydney CBD”.
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Ultimo project Trieste could appeal to sub-$600,000 buyers before June 30 government grant deadline

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As time runs out for property buyers to secure NSW state government incentives, some developers are bringing their projects forward – and others even beginning marketing before they have development application approval from the local council.
Moorgate Property’s Rockpool (pictured below), which is on the former Prince Henry Hospital site in the Sydney suburb of Little Bay Cove, is one such project that's hit the market this month.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/rockpool1.jpg">
NG Farah agent Peter Goulding told Property Observer Rockpool was due to launch later this year but the development was brought forward so buyers could take advantage of the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/time-running-out-for-first-home-bonuses-and-stamp-duty-concessions/2012052854863" target="_blank">NSW government’s home builders’ bonus</a>, which exempts buyers from stamp duty on new properties under $600,000. The exemption is open to all buyers, both owner-occupiers and investors.
About 60% of the 73 units in the building will be under this threshold.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/rockpool3.jpg">
“The building has been engineered to provide a large volume of lower priced product, for the market place to obtain the full benefit of the government stamp duty concessions which expire on the 30th June 2012,” says NG Farah agent Dennis Vertzayias.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/rockpool4.jpg">
Rockpool will comprise one- and two-bedroom apartments. One-bedroom apartments start from $465,000, and one-bedroom apartments with studies start from $475,000. The two-bedroom offerings start from $579,000, with $650,000 the starting price for two-bedroom units with studies. 


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<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/rockpool5.jpg">
“This will allow first-home buyers, astute investors, and even second-home buyers the opportunity for affordable housing in a brand-new development in one of Sydney’s most rapidly developing locations, so close to the city centre,” says Vertzayias.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/rockpool6.jpg">
Goulding says the building has been approved under the master plan for the Prince Henry Hospital site, but it has not secured final development approval from Randwick Council. He says the developer expects approval in September or October this year.
The original hospital that sat on the 85-hectare site dates back to the 1880, and by the time the renamed Prince Henry Hospital was decommissioned in 2001, it had sprawled out to 60 buildings. The NSW government and developer Stockland announced a plan to transform the site into a $400 million development in 2004. The community is now home to more than 600 households.
 <img src="/images/stories/2012/05/harbourmill10.jpg">


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Another project brought to market before receiving development approval is Harbour Mill (pictured above and below), to be built on the former Edwin Davey Flour Mill site in Pyrmont.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/harbourmill1.jpg">
Developer Ceerose bought the 3,100-square-metre site last year, but the sale is yet to officially settle, according to a land title search. The previous developer Mike Boulos, who had intended to build a seven-storey mixed-use development on the site, never had his plans came to fruition. Boulos had bought the site in 1996 for $3.38 million.
Sydney City Council was pleased at Ceerose’s competition to find a design for the long dormant, but high profile site. The winning design by Grimshaw Architects - which includes much of the heritage façade of the former flour mill - has not yet officially been approved. The DA is before the council now, and approval is expected later this month.
Another Sydney development that has been marketed without receiving the final sign-off from council is Oceania Property’s Bay Residences (pictured below). Oceania bought the Double Bay site for $20.5 million in January 2011, with the site having previously traded at $15 million in 2007.
<img src="/images/stories/bayresidences.jpg">
It had planned to build a luxury development of just eight units and secured approval from Woollahra Council for the project, but failed to generate any interest from buyers. The developer went back to the drawing board and reconfigured the project into 21 smaller one- and two-bedroom units, lodging a section 96 alteration application with the council. The 21-unit Bay Residences has been brought to market, but council approval is still pending.
“The councillors and council staff I’ve spoken to are very supportive of the changes because it will mean more residents will now be able to live in Double Bay,” says Nico Wijarto Tjen, a director of Oceania Property, “and the new apartment mix will also mean younger residents.”
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/06/haroldpark.jpg">
Developer Mirvac is yet to receive final greenlight from Sydney City Council for its Harold Park development in Glebe (pictured above), but is expectant of doing so shortly.
The City of Sydney set out a prescriptive local environment plan (LEP) for the site following detailed consultations, and Mirvac has signed a voluntary planning agreement with the council for Harold Park.
Mirvac began marketing of Harold Park late last year prior to obtaining final development consent in the confidence that its plans were fully compliant with the Harold Park LEP which establishes the parameters for permissible height and density. The LEP has been approved and gazetted by the NSW Government.
The NSW Government rezoned Harold Park from open space to mixed use residential late last year paving the way for Mirvac to progress its Stage 1 development application which is the masterplan DA.
Marketing of Stage 1, consisting of 296 apartments and terraces, began in late 2011 as Mirvac was aware of a pent-up demand for its apartments and terraces.
"The enthusiastic response to the launch in November and subsequent sales have exceeded all our expectations," a spokesman said.
As part of the agreement, Mirvac is dedicating 3.8 hectares (or 35% of the site) to public parkland and will contribute $8.25 million to public open space. The developer will also hand over 1,000 square metres to the City of Sydney to accommodate affordable and seniors’ housing.
Mirvac hopes to start work on the site in August, but that is contingent upon receiving Sydney City Council approval in the interim.
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Sydney developers in bigger rush than buyers as projects come to market without final DA as June 30 deadline looms

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ING Direct will pass on 20 out of  25 basis points to variable mortgage holders following the RBA's 25 basis point cash rate cut on Tuesday.
The bank will reduce the interest rate on its variable mortgages by 0.20%, effective Friday 15 June with the rate on its most popular variable rate product,Mortgage Simplifier, reducing to 6.22% per annum.
ING Direct, part of Dutch banking giant ING, passed on 30 out of 50 basis points following the May RBA double cash rate cut.
It passed on both November and December quarter percentage point cash rate cuts in full to borrowers.
The ING Direct announcement follows Bank of Queensland passing on 20 basis points on Tuesday and QT Mutual Bank passing on all 25 basis points yesterday.
None of the major banks have made any announcements yet on rates.
ING Direct is the sixth largest home lender in the country with $38 billion in mortgages – ranking behind the Big Four banks and fifth biggest lender, BankWest, owned by the Commonwealth Bank.
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ING Direct to cut variable mortgage rates by 20 basis points

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So it’s now official. All the analysts, commentators, and policymakers who told you that Australian economic growth was decelerating, “sub-trend” (a popular phrase), “modest”, “below capacity”, or about to head into recession were woefully misguided. Anyone who predicted interest rate cuts over 2011 and 2012 on the basis of a weak domestic economy was right, but for the wrong reasons.
Indeed, if the “sub-trenders” had any intellectual honesty, they would be calling for a spate of rate hikes right now. If the (falsely, and now revised) low real GDP print in the final quarter of 2011 was grounds for hysterical calls for cuts, the last four quarters of growth data combined with the many months of jobless rate data are surely an even more persuasive basis for hikes? One of the smartest strategists in Australia did write to me today, unsolicited, and state, “I was wrong – economy doing OK…[and] yes, you were correct.”
Australia’s economic growth rate over the last four quarters has been a stunningly strong 4.3%, well in excess of estimates of the trend rate of growth of around 3% per annum. Australia’s jobless rate was just 5.1% in May, slightly up from a revised 5% in April, but down on a three-month moving average basis from 5.2% in March. Since 1990, the jobless rate has averaged 6.9%.
At the same time, we know that business investment continues to boom (and businesses plan to invest at record rates for years to come), household consumption, which is the biggest driver of economic growth, is expanding at a rate way above historical trend, housing credit growth is tracking incomes very closely, which is what we would expect, and the total wages bill rose at an above-trend pace in the first quarter.
Based on the information we have available to us today, the RBA’s pre-November monetary policy settings—remember they take 12 to 18 months to have their full effect—were pitch perfect, as I  argued in the past. It was those settings, and not subsequent cuts, that gave us a more acceptably low inflation rate.
Those calling for savage rate cuts in the second half of last year badly misread the economy. The bottom line is, as both Professor Warwick McKibbin and I have previously argued, if you assume the appreciation of the Australian dollar was a once-off event, there was no domestic economy basis for rate cuts as the inflation benefits (in late 2011 and early 2012) would be temporary.
The RBA board and its staff have a lot of explaining to do for their post-November decision-making. Governor Glenn Stevens has repeatedly told the community that the RBA does not believe it can forecast with accuracy over the long term. He repeatedly pushed the notion that it needed to focus on “nowcasting” in justifying its rate cuts in late 2011. When the RBA got a downward revision to the second quarter inflation data in June 2011 from 0.8% to 0.6%, it used this data point to materially change the stance of monetary policy from restrictive to neutral. But it turned out that this core inflation estimate was wrong: it subsequently got revised back up to an unacceptably high 0.8%.
As any inflation forecaster knows, you do not get a consistently low inflation rate with real GDP growth of 4.3% per annum, an unemployment rate of 5.1% and a currency that is stable or declining.
In the latest inflation numbers, domestic (or so-called “non-tradeable”) inflation printed at around 3.5%, well above the RBA’s 2-3% per annum target. Australia’s low inflation pulse in late 2011 and early 2012 was being driven mainly by internationally priced goods and services (or so-called tradeables), which were actually falling in value as a result of the temporary currency appreciation.
So something important in the RBA’s decision-making changed late last year. It stopped nowcasting and started forecasting. It increasingly ignored the very low unemployment data despite the fact that the unemployment rate is the single most important variable in its inflation forecasting models.
It has ignored a great deal of “partial” data – business investment, household consumption spending, wages, domestic demand, and even the narrowly measured monthly retail data – and calibrated policy on the basis of utterly subjective and, it appears, quite incorrect forecasts.
 
 
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In a tiny cohort of analysts – including Adam Carr – I have consistently argued that the December, May and June rate cuts were unnecessary (and received immense push-back for doing so). I’ve maintained that the RBA was bowing to pressure from a community that has not seen a recession since 1991, a public that has become incredibly complacent, with many generations having been exposed to declining interest rates and a falling unemployment rate for most of their lives. The RBA has been relentlessly bullied by both sides of politics and their proxies (e.g., leading union officials and aligned commentators), and, we know, the six private sector doves that dominate the RBA’s board (to say nothing of the Treasury Secretary).
It is clear that the RBA has rejected its own decision-making logic by setting policy not on hard and dependable economic data, but rather on the basis of speculation and, most worryingly, financial market expectations.
The RBA’s inflation forecasts are now all wrong. The pulse of economic growth is much higher than it has assumed. The unemployment rate is well below the 5.5% it expected. Even after today’s terrific jobs report, the Aussie dollar is still materially lower than the 103 US cents it presumed (as are oil prices).
I coined a term late last year: the “Glenn Stevens put”, which insinuated that the RBA was doling out insurance to vested interests and the financial markets when it had no business doing so.
It has punished hard-working Australian savers in preference for less prudent borrowers. On the basis of today’s data, interest rates in Australia are probably a good half to three quarters of a percentage point lower than they need to be.
There are certainly no signs of a household deleveraging induced recession in the manner predicted by the likes of Steve Keen. Sure, house prices have endured a modest correction. Yet this has been largely driven by the luxury sector.
Since January 2011, 80% of all Australian suburbs have experienced total house price declines of less than 3%. Yet the most expensive 20% of suburbs have suffered house price falls of around 7%.
One of my regular memes has been that we have had a valuation re-rating in the million dollar-plus market due to the (permanent) contraction in financial services earnings growth. That’s not a bad thing.
The droves of analysts that called for much lower rates on the basis of sub-trend economic growth should front up and admit they were wrong. An inquiry is needed into the RBA board’s decision-making processes, which appear predisposed to persistent error.  Australia’s average core inflation rate since 2001 has been amongst the highest of our developed country peers. At a minimum, we need to get rid of the RBA board’s highly conflicted private business sector executives and replace them with professionals who understand how the aggregate economy works.
Christopher Joye is a leading financial economist and a director of <a href="https://www.ybr.com.au/savings/index.cfm" target="_blank">Yellow Brick Road Funds Management</a> and Rismark. The author may have an economic interest in any of the items discussed in this article. These are the author’s personal views and do not represent the opinions of any other individual or institution. This material is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment advice or recommendations.
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The RBA has gotten it entirely wrong – the economy growth rate is stunningly strong: Christopher Joye

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All the core problems afflicting the real estate industry can be encapsulated in one word: government. 
All three levels of government are key forces impacting property – and none of them are forces for good. State governments, which are responsible for real estate laws, have the greatest impact and do the greatest damage. 
The first of many problems is that the only interest politicians have in the real estate industry is its role as a cash cow. The concern of most politicians for property starts and ends there. 
Stamp duty, land tax, capital gains tax, rates, infrastructure charges and the GST – property is a core source of funding for all levels of government. 
These taxes hurt property consumers because they add layers of costs. They are a massive burden impinging on the critical matter of affordability. Many politicians say they care about housing affordability, but the lack of action suggests otherwise. 
Grants to first-home buyers have never been an effective remedy. They create short-term distortions in the market and do little to address the core issues. 
We have the bizarre anomaly where a state government will provide a grant to a buyer of a first home and then charge her more in stamp duty when she buys that first home. Only a bureaucratic mind could make sense of that. 
Beyond short-term tinkering with grants, the response by federal and state governments to the issue of affordability has been deafening silence. 
State governments also harm real estate through the lack of a timely and effective response to problems that arise, particularly those that relate to consumer protection. 
Most state and territory governments have changed real estate laws during the past decade or so. These laws have seldom been effective in protecting buyers and sellers, for two reasons. 
Reason one: before legislating the politicians have consulted “the real estate industry” for advice on what to do. This is a farcical approach because the real estate industry – primarily developers and real estate agents – is the problem. It’s like consulting the mafia for advice on how the stop the drug trade. 
Reason two: having enacted laws to deal with matters such as under-quoting in ads, dummy bidding at auction and sundry other rorts, politicians render them irrelevant by failing to enforce them. Each jurisdiction has an office of fair trading or consumer affairs department, and their track record in enforcing consumer protection laws is pitiful. 
The biggest rip-off in real estate is the growing practice whereby developers offer kickbacks to professionals who bring them buyers for off-the-plan apartments. Accountants, financial planners, real estate agents, marketers masquerading as buyers agents and other “advisers” can earn up to $35,000 for each buyer they recommend. 
When we asked Queensland’s Fair Trading Minister, a fresh-faced kid named Jarrod Bleijie, what he was doing about it, his response was: “This is not an issue that has been raised with us by the real estate industry.” 
Translation: he knows nothing about it and doesn’t intend to find out. 
And of course the industry hasn’t raised this issue with the minister. Key elements of the industry are benefiting from this rip-off. 
The other way state governments are harming real estate is with their economic policies. State and territory governments seem to believe we’re in a recession and that austerity is the answer, with public service numbers cut, programs slashed and jobs-creating projects scrapped. 
Victoria, NSW and Queensland have recently elected Liberal-National governments. Each new regime seems to believe it has a solemn duty to tear down everything started by their predecessors – and to hell with the consequences. 
Residents of regional areas of Victoria, who probably expect a few favours from a conservative government, must be wondering what hit them. Government offices are being closed, which is costing local jobs. Programs and project funding has been slashed or refused, with particular impact on universities and TAFE campuses, again costing jobs. 
Tasmania, which is the nation’s struggle state, desperately needs strong leadership and economic stimulus from its government. Instead it’s getting austerity. New infrastructure spending is almost non-existent and there is no growth anywhere. 
I make my living identifying the future hotspots around Australia. I can’t identify a single location in Tasmania worthy of recommendation – and the state government is a major part of the problem. 
I’m beginning to think we’d all be better off if we scrapped this layer of government. New Zealand doesn’t have stamp duty or land tax because it doesn’t have this middle tier of government. Do we really need it?
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting">followed on Twitter</a>.
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