Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Joel Robinson

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

A proposal to redevelop one of North Sydney's ageing commercial buildings has taken another step forward, with plans for a 38-storey mixed-use tower adding momentum to the long-awaited transformation of the Alfred Street precinct.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority-led State Significant Development pathway, the proposal for 271-273 Alfred Street would replace an underutilised commercial building with 95 apartments, ground-floor retail, commercial space and affordable housing. The proposal was submitted by&nbsp;Tara Shore Pty Ltd, acting for the John Taylor Family Trust.

While the project will deliver much-needed housing on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, it also represents another piece of a broader precinct that has spent years in planning limbo.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e1ce1b4-38df-48ab-992f-386814d86308" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=sC_h6w.A9VEoB98qsqowPlIoz__sBZBt" />

Despite its proximity to both North Sydney Station and the Victoria Cross Metro, redevelopment of Alfred Street has progressed slowly over the past decade as broader planning controls, zoning and building heights remained unresolved. The introduction of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway has provided a new avenue for projects to progress, allowing rezoning and development assessment to occur concurrently and unlocking sites that have long been earmarked for renewal.

Designed by Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder, the proposal seeks to do more than replace an ageing office building. The architects have positioned the project as the first stage of a wider public domain vision that would improve pedestrian connectivity and create a more cohesive mixed-use precinct as neighbouring sites are redeveloped over time.

The proposal includes a widened Alfred Street setback, new street trees, landscaping and outdoor seating, along with a landscaped through-site pedestrian link connecting Alfred Street with Little Alfred Street. The connection is intended to become the first section of a future east-west pedestrian network extending across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: New public domain vision underpins 95-apartment North Sydney tower on Alfred Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ea39ac3-46ad-4562-b4a0-b862e91c2dda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Alfred%20St%20da%20site.png?VersionId=K7umCd21KpetEFuVfsPlnJKhUOsmTTdV" />

The mixed-use tower would comprise retail space at ground level, commercial uses on level two and apartments from level three upwards.

In total, the development would deliver 95 apartments, including nine one-bedroom, 28 two-bedroom, 56 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom residences. Twenty-one apartments, representing 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area, would be secured as affordable housing and managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years.

Nine basement levels would provide 133 resident car spaces, seven motorcycle spaces and 111 bicycle spaces.

According to the Architecture and Urban Design Report, the public domain strategy is designed to transform what is currently an inward-facing commercial edge into a more active and connected pedestrian environment, creating a stronger relationship between the commercial core and surrounding residential neighbourhoods.

Office of Cortese &amp; Gilder has also prepared a broader public domain framework spanning neighbouring properties between 263 and 283 Alfred Street, arguing that a coordinated approach to redevelopment will deliver better public spaces, improved tower separation and a more connected streetscape as the precinct evolves.

The proposal comes at a time where North Sydney is slated for future residential growth. Commercial developer FiveX has residential plans for the neighbouring site at 275 Alfred Street. They've proposed a 39-storey mixed-use tower with 184 apartments, while Freecity was recently approved for nearly 300 apartments across a 51-storey building on Walker Street.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-freecity-gets-green-light-for-mixed-use-apartment-and-hotel-tower-in-north-sydney">First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-plans-39-storey-residential-tower-in-booming-north-sydney">First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney</a>

&nbsp;

Alfred Street the latest North Sydney pocket to be transformed by residential development

Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

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?

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

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The Queensland hotel market is due to recover after recent poor performance, particularly in sites like the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, according to the latest report by CBRE.
Queensland’s hotel market should grow 5.2% from 2012 to 2016, outperforming any other state and the 3.3% national average, according to the report.
“Queensland is still in the midst of a difficult economic period which commenced with the GFC. This has continued to the present day due to ongoing problems in the construction and tourism industries as well as the damage caused by the floods and cyclones at the beginning of 2011,” the report finds.
“Further forwards, however, forecast growth rates are strong.
“Capital expenditure is the major contributor to this growth outlook, with many resource related projects providing strong prospects for the state. “
The report also cites the announcement of the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Queensland as a catalyst for growth.
Queensland has suffered a slump in room rates this year, which is not expected to recover until 2012.
“Floods and cyclones have impacted heavily, as did the recent grounding of the Qantas fleet. These one-off events came on top of a consistently high Aussie dollar, which has resulted in less international visitors and a propensity of Australians to take advantage of greater purchasing power and head overseas for their holidays,” says the report.
International tourist arrivals are forecast to increase 8.6% in 2012, then 7.8% in 2013 and 7.6% in 2014. Most international arrivals stayed level from 2001 except for Japan, which fell from more than 450,000 in 2004 to 200,000 in 2011.
The report finds most purchasers for major hotel assets in 2012 are likely to be private investors, foreign interests (especially Asian based) and operators seeking to grow the number of rooms/apartments under management.
“A litmus test for the accommodation market is likely to be the upcoming listing of the Commonwealth Property Fund Hotel portfolio with assets in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne,” says senior associate director of global research and consulting at CBRE Craig Godber.
“The listing will provide a good indication of both the true depth of the investment market as well as pricing.”
 
 
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Queensland hotel market set for recovery in 2012 after bad year: CBRE

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Victorian property buyers will have just 30 days to pay stamp duty from April next year as the state government slashes the payment deadline, which is traditionally 90 days from the date of transaction.
The Duties Act 2000 (Vic) amendment comes into effect on April 1 next year.
“Purchasers of property will now need to take account of the implications of the new stamping requirements when considering their finance requests,” says TressCox lawyer Dan Flynn.
“The reduced time for payment means that it will no longer be possible to hold funds for up to three months, allowing investment of funds, or use of it for other purposes, during the period before payment is made.”
Flynn recommends parties involved in dutiable transactions adopt practices that enable them to comply with the reduced time period to avoid penalties.
The act also ensures the same level of stamp duty benefits for concession card holders and pensioners are available to purchasers of existing homes, off-the-plan purchasers and owner-builders.
The base point for calculating the concession for off-the-plan sales to pensioners and concession card holders is now defined as the aggregate of the value of the land and the cost of construction, rather than the dutiable value of the property.
 
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Victorian home buyers to pay off stamp duty in just 30 days from April

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A modest, patchy housing recovery is on the cards for 2012, with houses and apartments in suburbs close to CBDs and period houses the best placed for growth, according to Monique Sasson Wakelin, managing director of Wakelin Property Advisory.
“The elements are in place for moderate property price growth in 2012 in our capital cities,” she says. “Growing incomes, falling interest rates, improved affordability and low inflation and unemployment will underpin demand.  Where supply remains constrained price growth will follow.”
Sasson Wakelin identifies suburbs two to 12 kilometres from the CBD in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane and one to five kilometres from the CBD in other capitals as those where supply-constrained markets are most prevalent.
“Despite efforts to encourage in-fill developments in our inner suburbs, the thin volume of new supply is insufficient to match increased demand deriving from a growing population,” she says.
“The [supply] gap is most acute for period housing. By definition, no more Victorian or Edwardian houses are being built and neither are Art Deco or 1930s to 1970s apartments. This architecture is highly sought after by home buyer and investors alike.”
Wakelin is less optimistic about Melbourne high-rise apartments and outer-fringe areas. “Both the outer-fringe and the high-rise sectors in Melbourne suffer from a glut of excess supply over demand due to the full pipeline of new developments in these areas,” she says. “There may be little or no capital growth in these areas in 2012.”
She does not anticipate a dramatic start to the 2012 market. “Don’t count on fireworks or bidders competing aggressively in February when metropolitan auctions recommence.
“After 18 months of softness in the property market, understandably many prospective buyers are looking for a signal that no further price cuts are likely before they jump in.”
Sasson Wakelin believes a gradually improving auction clearance rate may be that sign in the Melbourne market.
“The clearance rate has been hovering in the low 50s for several months in Melbourne. If it starts creeping towards and beyond 60%, this may be the cue for others to buy.  We may see an orderly rush to the entrance of the property market in April and May.”
“Barring the economic or natural disasters that plagued us in 2011, I envisage moderate capital growth of between 2% and 5% for metropolitan Melbourne, most likely arising in the second half of 2012.”
The major risk factor facing property in 2012, she says, remains international economic conditions.
“Should the eurozone crisis deteriorate then this may see capital growth deferred and even result in some further softening in prices.  However, I would expect the inner and middle suburban established property markets to remain insulated because of their innate resilience against economic shocks and further Reserve Bank rate cutting.”
 
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Modest, patchy housing market recovery forecast for 2012: Monique Sasson Wakelin

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Australia has gone from lagging to leading in relation to the rate of recovery in commercial capital values.
Prime office capital values have been rising in most parts of the world since 2009, however growth has varied widely and, perhaps surprisingly, values have increased the least in Australia.
But changes are afoot. Australia has emerged as the slow but steady performer on the world stage – which is one of the key reasons why this market has been such a magnet for offshore investors.
With the rate of capital value growth decelerating in Asia, the US only just limping into recovery and taking into account the changing outlook in Europe, Australia has started to emerge with a more stable, albeit modest, level of capital value growth than other parts of the world.
Indeed, in the third quarter this year, Australia and the US were the equal leaders in relation to quarterly capital value growth after prime office values increased by 1.5%. In the EMEA, which is the epicentre of the world’s economic concerns, capital values grew by just 0.7%, while in Asia values increased by just 1% as cracks began to appear in the region’s economic outlook.
<img src="/images/stories/stanley1.gif">
It is a significant shift given what has occurred at a global level since the start of the property market recovery in 2009. Since that time, global capital values have increased 16.7%, driven by strong growth in Asia, where values have jumped a staggering 28.5% on the back of falling cap rates and globe-leading office rental growth.
Even the EMEA and the US have so far managed to post reasonable growth of 15.3% and 13.6% respectively, despite the negative sentiment in relation to their economies.
By comparison, prime office capital values have increased by just 7.5% in Australia in the past two years, despite our enviable credit rating and the fact that foreign investors have been flocking here in record numbers.
And it is a far slower recovery than what has been experienced in past cycles. In the first two years of the recovery in the early 1990s, values increased 12.8% and in the mid-2000s, after the tech wreck, values increased by 11.9% in two years to restore all the value lost in the preceding downturn.
So what’s so different this time round and why has Australia been lagging The cost of debt is one key reason. The level of tenant demand is another.
Unlike most of the rest of the world, the cost of debt has remained relatively high in Australia and this has restricted the local investment market and left the door open to foreign purchasers, who are mostly using all equity when purchasing.
If investors do borrow to purchase, then the spread between the property yield and the cost of debt is too tight to provide much scope for yield of cap rate compression through the bidding process. 
<img src="/images/stories/stanley2.gif">
On the tenancy front demand outside the resources sector has been hesitant given the uncertain global economic environment and business confidence has remained low, which has slowed decision making.
As a result, Australian prime CBD office rents have grown just 4.0% since the fourth quarter of 2009, which has done little to boost capital values.
But the third-quarter growth numbers point to Australia being the slow but steady performer on the global stage – and this is likely to be a continued magnet for property investors – as is the fact that capital values here need to grow by another 18% to return to pre GFC levels.
The slow and steady pace of change in this cycle in Australia is likely to continue to attract investors comfortable with a more stable recent performance and outlook.
Kevin Stanley is executive director of global research and consulting for the Asia Pacific region at <a target="_blank" title="CBRE" href="https://www.cbre.com.au/EN/">CBRE</a>.
 
 
 
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kstanley-sW5KFjskLN

Australian commercial property market has gone from laggard to leader

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Some people were uncertain as to the differences between the ‘First Home Plus’ Scheme and the new ‘First Home – New Home’ Scheme that is due to start in the new year. Let me explain:
The ‘First Home Plus’ Scheme currently in place provides a tax duty exemption for first-home buyers in NSW, with full exemption on homes valued up to $500,000 and partial exemption for homes valued between $500,000 and $600,000. Purchasers of vacant residential land currently enjoy a full exemption for lots valued $300,000 or less, with a concession on duty for lots valued between $300,000 and $450,000.
The new scheme will be implemented for property exchanged as of January 1, 2012 and will apply to newly built homes, homes bought off the plan and vacant lots, with existing dwellings receiving no exemption under this scheme. In implementing the new scheme, the government is attempting to stimulate the construction of new dwellings by making them more attractive to first-home buyers. Exemption will also be given to vacant residential lots transacting for $300,000 or less, with a partial exemption given to lots valued between $300,000 and $450,000. Dwellings and land selling above the specified amounts will receive no exemption.
Savings of $ $17,990 for a newly built home worth $500,000 or $8,990 for a vacant block of land worth $300,000 equates to 3.5% of the total value (including the stamp duty) for the former and 2.9% for the latter. This may appear like a substantial amount of money but in reality represents only a negligible amount of the total cost involved in the purchase a house or unit, which can be erased almost instantly should the market turn south.
Although there is a clear advantage for first-home buyers aiming to purchase an existing dwelling before the end of the year, the figures above demonstrate that understanding the market and where it is heading is much more important.
We see the purchase of real estate as a long-term investment and therefore suggest that first home buyers conduct a thorough research of the market and make sure they buy at the right price. This will help to ensure that the longer term movement of the market will not erase the short term impact of stamp duty savings.
According to the NSW Office of State Revenue the Normal Place of Residence rule will continue to apply, requiring first-home buyers to “occupy the home as their principal place of residence for a continuous period of six months commencing within 12 months from completion of the agreement.” It is also worth noting that eligibility for the Federal Government’s First Home Owner’s Grant is independent of the ‘First Home – New Home’ Scheme and can be applied for regardless of the property’s value or its age (a cap of $835,000 applies).
Oded Reuveni Etzioni is a research analyst at <a href="https://www.prdnationwide.com.au/site/page.cfm" target="_blank">PRDnationwide</a>. 
 
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oetzioni-5WiKTPzvNv

How NSW laws will change for first-home buyers in January

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Asian buyers are vital to the success of future residential developments and developers must engage with them, says Morry Schwartz, head of Melbourne-based property developer Pan Urban. 
Speaking to Property Observer, Schwartz says Chinese buyers from countries like Malaysia and Indonesia see a country like Australia as a safe haven for the long term. 
“Sometimes Chinese people who are living in Malaysia or Indonesia feel slightly insecure about buying where they live because there may be anti-Chinese sentiment in those countries,” he says. 
Schwartz also believes Australia offers a more stable investment option than mainland China. 
“In mainland China there is a strange political combination of capitalism in a socialist environment, not necessarily the most stable. 
“People, who have wealth – some of them great wealth – worry about nationalism,” he says. 
Furthermore, while Australian investors tend to be more insular in nature and are not inclined to buy an apartment in Hong Kong, Schwartz says Asian buyers don’t think it’s strange to buy in countries like Australia or Canada. 
“And there is the education factor. Parents like to buy an apartment for their child who is studying at RMIT,” he says. 
His comments following the launch of Juwai.com, promoted as the world’s largest international property search and information platform for Mandarin-speaking Chinese consumers. 
The site has more than 1 million property listings from over 80,000 agents and developers in the US, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom and Japan. 
Schwartz says there a “huge need” for such a site. 
“Australian agents are looking for buyers, and Chinese buyers want to spend billions on Australian property. But getting the two groups together before Juwai cost a fortune. 
“Agents had to travel to China for property expos, hire Mandarin-speaking staff or to split their commissions with Chinese agents — none of which is affordable in this marketplace. 
Taken as a group, local and offshore Asian buyers currently account for about 60% of enquiries and purchases at Pan Urban's developments – “up substantially from a few years ago,” Schwartz says. 
Schwartz says one- and two-bedroom apartments appeal to Asian buyers because they are more affordable. 
“They like urban and inner-city apartments and also buy in areas such as Doncaster and Springvale where local Chinese communities are based,” he says. 
Pan Urban’s major Melbourne project is the Lacrosse in Docklands, featuring two intersecting apartment blocks currently under construction. 
The majority of the 312 apartments in stage one of the development have already sold, with many sold to Asian buyers. Stage two, comprising 259 apartments, is also expected to attract strong interest from Asian buyers. 
Schwartz says Australian developers and agents are gaining a stronger understanding of the Chinese markets. 
“There is a moving together from two directions. 
"You are not doing a good job at selling real estate in Australia today if you're not marketing to the Chinese buyer,” he says.
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Asian buyers vital to Australian property market: Morry Schwartz

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Millionaire Perth businesswoman Marilyn New is once again attempting to sell off her Esplanade Hotels Group after the holding failed to sell last year.
The portfolio includes the colonial-style 300-room Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle, which is the town’s only 4.5-star hotel where the pool is overlooked by a multi-story car park, and the 101-room Esplanade River Suites serviced apartments in Como.
Perth has long suffered from a lack of hotels, so occupancy remains high and room rates are strong.
Last year the two hotels were listed with CBRE and it was touted that any sale – and they were offered as a package or individually – might well have brought more than the $98 million that the five-star Hyatt Regency sold for in 1996, which was the most recent comparable sale. However, current selling agent Jones Lang LaSalle is calling for expressions of interest and not mentioning price point.
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New deal: Freo's Esplanade Hotels Group on the market once again

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While the tradition of using small candles to light up the Christmas tree dates back to at least the middle of the 17th century, electrically powered Christmas lights kicked off in 1881 at the Savoy Theatre.
Wikipedia says it became increasingly the custom to completely outline the house and especially the eaves  with weatherproof Christmas lights from the 1960s in the United States. It notes Australian Christmas lights were adopted as an effective way to provide ambient lighting to verandas, where cold beer is often served in the long hot summer evenings. It notes for many years the use of Christmas lights on Australian homes was mainly limited to the simplest form.
<img src="/images/stories/wollchristmas.jpg">
Wikipedia even features a photograph of a cottage with veranda at a miner's cottage in Wollongong (pictured above). One could almost image Norman Gunston doing a live television cross for his 1970s segment, What's On In Wollongong.
But Wikipedia suggests from about 1990 increasingly elaborate Christmas lights have been displayed and driving around between 8pm and 10 pm to look at the lights has become a popular family entertainment. While in some areas there is fierce competition, with town councils offering awards for the best decorated house, in other areas it is seen as a co-operative effort, with residents priding themselves on their street or their neighbourhood.
Over the next week we’ll present some other terrific Christmas sights.
 
 
 
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Christmas lights: Wollongong 

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
Industry funds are gearing up to allow their members to invest directly in property at a time when self-managed super fund trustees have upped their exposure to bricks and mortar to the highest level in three years.
The $17 billion Cbus industry super fund, which has 655,000 members, is preparing to launch a direct property offering to their members next year.
Cbus Super is likely to allow its members and SMSFs to invest in a “combination” of assets. Cbus has $2.3 billion (14% of total assets) invested in property, with about $1.1 billion invested through its 100% owned property developer, Cbus Property. Assets include 8 Exhibition Street in Melbourne and 550 Bourke Street in Melbourne.
According to Multiport, direct property allocation among 1,600 DIY funds it manages,  increased in the September quarter to 14.5% compared with 12.8% a year ago.
This rises to 16.8% when managed investments are included, meaning property as an asset class among SMSF portfolios is at highest level since December 2008.
In contrast, the allocation of Australian shares in SMSF portfolios continued, to fall dropping to 36% of the investment mix compared to 40.5% a year ago.
Nearly a quarter (24.7%) of SMSF funds are now being invested in cash and short-term deposits, up from 21.8% a year ago, while fixed-interest investments account for 14.1% of portfolios compared to 12.2% a year ago.
“As gearing within SMSFs continues to increase in appeal, perhaps exacerbated by current share market uncertainty, trustees are turning to property and gearing. Companies are developing products to make this process easier for trustees,” says Multiport CEO John McIlroy, Multiport released its own property gearing package earlier this year.
 
Property investment over last 12 months:
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="204">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
30 Sep 2010 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
31 Dec 2010 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
31 March  2011 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
30 June 2011 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
30 Sept 2011 (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="204">
Direct Property
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
12.8
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
12.4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
13.7
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
13.7
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
14.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="204">
Listed Property, Managed Funds &amp; Syndicates
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
3.5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
3.3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
2.4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
2.3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
2.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="204">
Total %
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
16.3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
15.7
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
16.1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
16.0
</td>
<td valign="top" width="96">
16.8
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Multiport Pty Ltd  
The survey found that around 16% of the funds are currently using a limited recourse borrowing arrangement, with more than half of these (53%) doing so to invest in property and the remainder in financial assets.
The average property loan amount remains at around $217,000, compared with $238,000 against financial assets.  The overall asset allocation break-up as at 30 September 2011 was:
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="329">
Sector
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
30  Sep  2010 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
31  Dec 2010 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
31 March 2011 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
30 June 2011 (%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
30 Sept 2011 (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
Cash and short term deposits
</td>
<td width="75">
21.8
</td>
<td width="75">
21.9
</td>
<td width="75">
21.8
</td>
<td width="75">
22.8
</td>
<td width="75">
24.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
Fixed Interest
</td>
<td width="75">
12.2
</td>
<td width="75">
11.8
</td>
<td width="75">
11.0
</td>
<td width="75">
12.3
</td>
<td width="75">
14.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
Australian Shares
</td>
<td width="75">
40.5
</td>
<td width="75">
41.4
</td>
<td width="75">
41.0
</td>
<td width="75">
38.9
</td>
<td width="75">
36.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
International Shares
</td>
<td width="75">
7.3
</td>
<td width="75">
7.1
</td>
<td width="75">
8.8
</td>
<td width="75">
8.7
</td>
<td width="75">
7.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
Property
</td>
<td width="75">
16.3
</td>
<td width="75">
15.7
</td>
<td width="75">
16.1
</td>
<td width="75">
16.0
</td>
<td width="75">
16.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="329">
Other (Hedge funds, agricultural funds, and private geared and ungeared trusts)
</td>
<td width="75">
1.9
</td>
<td width="75">
2.1
</td>
<td width="75">
1.3
</td>
<td width="75">
1.2
</td>
<td width="75">
0.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="329">
Total
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
100.0
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
100.00
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
100.0
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
100.0
</td>
<td valign="top" width="75">
100.0
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Multiport Pty Ltd
For top tips on investing through your SMSF, download Property Observer’s free eBook.
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SMSF direct property investment at a three-year high

<html><body>
Australians are contributing higher proportions of their income on housing costs, with rent, interest payments and household services (utilities, cleaning, etc) costs all rising between the years 2003-04 and 2009-10, according to a household expenditure survey carried out by the Reserve Bank.
In comparison, Australians are taking less money out of their wallets to pay for cars, stereos, furniture and books then they did six years ago.
They’re even spending less on cigarettes.
<img src="/images/stories/spendingrba.gif">
 
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