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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Centro has continued to liquidate its regional and neighbourhood shopping centre assets, conditionally selling its Centro Newton Plaza in Adelaide for a price above $36.2 million.
The group says the conditional sale was achieved at price above the June 30, 2011 valuation, which is recorded as $36.2 million.
At this valuation price, it reflects a yield of 10% based on gross annual rent of $3.6 million.
The centre, part of its MCS 37 Syndicate, is located at 84 Gorge Road in Newtown, four kilometres southwest of the Adelaide CBD.
It has gross lettable area of 13,500 square metres and is anchored by Target and Foodland.
The conditional sale of Centro Newton Plaza follows successful completion of the sale of the syndicate’s Whites Hill Centre in Camp Hill, Brisbane for $15.5 million, reflecting a yield of 10.3%. This price is $200,000 above the June 30 independent valuation.
It includes a contract to sell an adjacent residential property at 35 Thomas Street, Camp Hill, owned by the syndicate for $530,000, a price $30,000 higher than the June 30, 2011 independent valuation.
Whites Hill was built in 2003. It attracts gross annual rent of $1.6 million, has gross lettable space of just under 4,000 square metres and is anchored by Woolworths.
Whites Hill and Newton are two out of six Centros in the MCS 37 syndicate. They others in the syndicate are Centro Albury (NSW), Centro Home (Gladstone, Queensland), Monier Road Shopping Village (Brisbane) and the Samuel Village Shopping Centre (Brisbane).
Sale of the Whites Hill centre follows shortly after the sale of the Centro Lismore in NSW to anchor tenant Woolworths for about $23 million.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/troubled-centro-now-offloading-seven-shopping-centres/2011090751471">Centro is looking to liquidate its retail portfolio under a restructuring plan to form a new entity.</a> Shareholders will vote on the restructure in December
The net proceeds from the sales will help to reduce the syndicate’s gearing ratio from 64.5% to 60.3%.
The syndicate’s external debt facility expires on December 20 2011. It is in advanced discussions with a new financier to refinance this loan.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Centro sells Adelaide shopping centre following Brisbane settlement

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SQM Research has released a slightly different kind of top 10 discount list this week, reviewing properties that have been on the market for the longest time. The list includes properties that have been withdrawn and re-listed. With a few exceptions these are not the most discounted properties, as vendors hold out hope that they can achieve close to their price hopes, even after years on the market. 
"Properties from Tasmania and New South Wales Central Coast have dominated the list. However, similarly to the last time SQM Research examined homes that have spent a great deal of time on the market, our number one property is still 188 Liverpool Road in Goolwa, South Australia and interestingly enough, totalling only 16% in discounts," SQM director Louis Christopher says. 
"Hanging around on the property market for approximately 1,236 days and counting - this particular case all goes to show that even waterfront properties aren't all that that hot if their asking prices aren't either. 
"In other words, this flies against the notion that good properties will sell well in any market. They won't, especially if they have been mispriced."
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">1</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="188 Liverpool Road" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-goolwa+north-104620957">188 Liverpool Road, Goolwa, SA, 5214</a>
On the market since: April 24,2008
Initial asking price: $950,000
Current asking price: $800,000
Reduction: 16%
Days on market: 1,236
Last sold for: $408,000
Date of last sale: May 12, 2007
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">2</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="5090 Tasman Highway" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007685342">5090 Tasman Highway, Buckland, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: May 18, 2008
Initial asking price: $250,000
Current asking price: $195,000
Reduction: 22%
Days on market: 1,213
Last sold for: $68,500
Date of last sale: May 30, 2003
 
3
<a target="_self" title="19 Wellington Street" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007854879">19 Wellington Street, Oatlands, Tasmania, 7120</a>
On the market since: May 22, 2008
Initial asking price: $260,000
Current asking price: $205,000
Reduction: 21%
Days on market: 1,208
Last sold for: $145,000
Date of last sale: November 22, 2003
 
 4
<a target="_blank" title="1403 Magenta Drive" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007162731">1403 Magenta Drive, Magenta, NSW, 2261</a>
On the market since: May 22, 2008
Initial asking price: $600,000
Current asking price: $535,000
Reduction: 11%
Days on market: 1,206
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="290 Viveash Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, WA, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2.29 million
Current asking price: $1.5 million
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 1,194
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">6</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="1302 Birkdale Place" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007217761">1302 Birkdale Place, Magenta, NSW, 2261</a>
On the market since: June 17, 2008
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $500,000
Reduction: 26%
Days on market: 1,180
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">7</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="6 Talbingo Court" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007982701">6 Talbingo Court, Collingwood Park, Queensland, 4301</a>
On the market since: October 27, 2008
Initial asking price: $349,000
Current asking price: $308,000
Reduction: 12%
Days on market: 1,049
Last sold for: $333,000
Date of last sale: December 22, 2007
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">8</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="19 Cathcart Street" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007517262">19 Cathcart Street, Swansea, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: November 29, 2008
Initial asking price: $350,000
Current asking price: $289,000
Reduction: 17%
Days on market: 1,018
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">9</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="90 Franklin Parade" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008048160">90 Franklin Parade,  Encounter Bay, SA, 5211</a>
On the market since: December 1, 2008
Initial asking price: $1.55 million
Current asking price: $1.39 million
Reduction: 10%
Days on market: 1,015
Last sold for: $675,000
Date of last sale: August 23, 2005
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">10</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="64 Cape Three Points Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008074820">64 Cape Three Points Road, Avoca Beach, NSW, 2251</a>
On the market since: December 2, 2008
Initial asking price: $2.1 million
Current asking price: $1.55 million
Reduction: 26%
Days on market: 1,015
Last sold for: $200,000
Date of last sale: December 2, 1999
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a target="_blank" title="SQM Research" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Properties lounge on market for years if vendors don't price realistically: SQM

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Unfortunately, this missive has nothing to do with the state of the residential market.  It remains “dead, buried and cremated”.  This was originally written over a year ago.  The Brisbane market, at least, is in a better position now.
Back in Black, one of the best “comeback” albums of all time is 30 years old.  Thirty years!  There is nothing, apart from seeing your kid’s baby photos, that reminds you more of how old you are than the significant anniversary of a favourite record.
I was in year 11 when this gem came out – a bundle of bluster, testosterone, zits and bad dance moves (some things never change) and can still remember the excitement when first hearing that ominous introduction to Hell’s Bells, the opening track.  It was a competition in our neighbourhood, in western Sydney, to see who could play You Shook Me All Night Long the loudest.  I even went into hock and bought a fancy new graphic equaliser to enhance the sound.  Those were the days.
I went to see AC/DC the following year, supported by The Angels and Rose Tattoo, and last year went to see them again, with my eldest teenage daughter, at ANZ stadium.  I would have gone twice had I been able to get tickets.  It rained during Thunderstruck during the first concert, after all.
It then comes as little surprise to find out that Back in Black is on high rotation in my car or whenever I am at home by myself.  Julia, my wife, likes Foreigner, which goes some way to explaining why she married me.  No taste at all.
Back in Black is an album of power, asserting class values and music’s ability to invigorate attitudes that some might not find palatable.  It is sexist and selfish, but it’s also ironic and piss-taking.  It was, and still remains, wild colonial convict music; in a word – Australian.
It is the first album I would grab in a house fire or take to a deserted island.
Assuming one could actually play music on a deserted island, what record would you grab first?  Better still, next time the conversation starts tanking at a barbecue or dinner party ask your friends to name their top 10 albums.  No compilations or live CDS are allowed, just original works.
Heck, work is (was, that is) so slow at present; why not jot down your list right now.  I bet you will want to revisit it within the hour.  I did mine – see below – several days ago, and am still not happy with it – there is no Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Eagles, Cold Chisel, Steve Earle, John Mellencamp, Rolling Stones, The Who, Joe Walsh, Cowboy Junkies and only one album from Tom Waits.  It is much harder than you think.
<ol>
<li>
Back in Black, AC/DC</li>
<li>
Born To Run, Bruce Springsteen</li>
<li>
Mule Variations, Tom Waits</li>
<li>
LA Woman, The Doors</li>
<li>
I, Flathead, Ry Cooder</li>
<li>
Wish You Were Here, Pink Floyd</li>
<li>
Late For The Sky, Jackson Browne</li>
<li>
Some Days You Eat The Bear…, Ian Matthews</li>
<li>
Beneath This Gruff Stuff, John Hiatt</li>
</ol>
10.  Cosmo’s Factory, Creedence Clearwater Revival
Remember, rock ‘n’ roll ain’t noise pollution.
PS  This year, statistically at least, I reached my half-life.  I now have fewer days in front of the horse than riding in the back of my cart to paraphrase another favourite artist, John Mellencamp.  Also April, our eldest daughter turned 18 a few months ago, and she is “out and at them” down in the apple isle, and her sister – Savannah – who at just 16, is on a 12-month exchange in Finland.  Proud yes!  But sometimes you just feel old –  well, older at least. 
Michael Matusik is the director of independent property advisory Matusik Property Insights. Matusik has helped over 500 new residential developments come to fruition and writes the weekly  <a href="https://matusikmissive.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" title="Matusik's Missive">Matusik's Missive</a>.
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michaelmatusik-49YzLvdmNv

Back in Black: Welcome to your half-life

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Frasers Property Australia has released 1,500 square metres of prime office space within its highly awarded Lumiere property at 101 Bathurst Street, Sydney.
Bluehold Property Agents (formerly PDBA), which is based on-site, has been appointed to sell the strata lots.
They range between 20 square metres and 125 square metres, with prices starting from $175,000 plus GST.
Bluehold expects to sell to professional services consultancies and quite possibly existing occupants of Lumiere’s high-rise residential apartments.
It’s a rarity for strata office spaces to be for sale within a premium-grade building in Sydney’s CBD, Bluehold’s Ben Symond says.
The commercial owners will enjoy access to Club Lumiere’s resort facilities and 24-hour concierge.
Its facilities include cinemas, a 50-metre indoor/outdoor pool, steam and sauna rooms.
Lumiere Commercial comprises one complete, secure level of the iconic tower on the 12th floor above Bathurst Street.
<img src="/images/stories/lumiere2.jpg">
All the Lumiere Commercial suites larger than 100 square metres include a parking space with an estimated value of $100,000.
Headed up by brothers Jay, Luke and Ben Symond, Bluehold Property Agents was launched in 2010 under the name Property Development Brokers Australia (PDBA).
The Symond family has been established in the Australian property development and finance industry for over three decades.
The building complex designed by UK-based Foster + Partners includes Lumiere Residences, a multi-level retail centre, Fraser Suites Sydney apartment hotel and Lumiere Commercial.
Regent Place won the mixed use development category of the Property Council of Australia’s awards for innovation and excellence in 2009.
Frasers has recently sold two suites achieving a high of $8,800 per square metre for a 32-square-metre suite.
The stylish internal fitout of Lumiere Commercial is underway, with occupancy anticipated from November.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Lumiere luxury a rarity in Sydney CBD office strata offerings

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Green star buildings are delivering a 12% “green premium” in value and a 5% premium in rent, a new study into the financial performance of green office buildings in Australia has found. 
The link between building sustainability and increased value and returns was established following analysis of a portfolio representing 51% of the total office market floor area in Sydney and Canberra.
More than 200 National Australian Built Environment Rating System -rated office buildings and 23 green star-rated building were benchmarked against a portfolio of conventional office buildings in research carried out by The Australian Property Institute and Property Funds Association. 
NABERS is a performance-based rating scheme for existing buildings, using measured annual operational impacts on the environment, including greenhouse gas emissions and water consumption. 
The green star scheme is a comprehensive, national, voluntary environmental rating scheme that evaluates the environmental design and construction of new buildings 
The report Building Better Returns found a “green premium” was evident for both green star-rated and NABERS Energy offices, with five-star NABERS Energy buildings attracting a 9% premium in value. 
The report also found that green star and NABERS Energy buildings delivered other benefits, such as reduced vacancies and outgoings. 
“This research finds both green star and NABERS Energy buildings deliver,” says Green Building Council of Australia chief executive Romilly Madew. 
In his introduction to the report, Nathan Fabian, chief executive of the Investor Group on Climate Change, says the property industry in Australia has actively contributed to this sustainability agenda in the context of its corporate social responsibility strategies. 
“This has seen a large number of property investors effectively integrate sustainability into their business platform at all levels of their commercial activities, this including both the larger property players as well as the smaller property players,” Fabian says. 
Fabian says A-REITs are amongst the leading property players globally “in championing the sustainability agenda for property”. 
Australia’s most sustainable buildings:
 Six-star green star ratings: selected office buildings
Sydney:
1 Shelley Street
1 Bligh Street
39 Hunter Street
100 Market Street
Darling Quarter, 1-25 Harbour Street
The Ark, 16-40 Mount Street
Workplace6, 44 Pirrama Road
 
Melbourne:
200 Victoria Street
ANZ, 833 Collins Street
Council House 2, 218-242 Little Collins Street
Szencorp Building, 40 Albert Street
The Gauge, 825 Bourke Street
Pixel, Building 9, The Brewery
 
Brisbane:
123 Albert Street
33 Breakfast Creek Road
512 Wickham Street
King George Central, 145 Ann Street
Green Square North Tower, 515 St Paul’s Terrace
Santos Place, 32 Turbot Street
 
Perth:
2 Victoria Street
 
Canberra:
9/31 City West Offices AEI Office, Trevor Pearcey House, 34 Thynne Street
 
Adelaide:
SA Water House, 250 Victoria Square
 
Six- and 5.5-star NABERS Energy rated offices
NSW:
76 Berry Street, North Sydney
60 Burelli Street, Wollongong
Legion House, 161 Castlereagh Street, Sydney
Quad 4, 8 Parkview Drive, Homebush
 
Victoria:
Centrelink Office, 69 Heygarth Street, Echuca
2 Nexus Court, Mulgrave
Nexus Corporate, 37 Dunlop Road, Mulgrave
 
Queensland:
Police Barracks Building 1, 61 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane 158 Hume Street, Toowoomba
 
Western Australia:
100 St Georges Terrace, Perth
 
Northern Territory:
Darwin Plaza, 41 The Mall, Darwin Jacana House, 39 Woods Street, Darwin
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Green-rated buildings gold for investors

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Our property markets are flat, and some investors are worried that the value of their properties is falling. Many are asking, “What will my property be worth next year?”. 
Each Monday they look at the auction clearance results and every month they check on median property values. While it’s not as bad as watching your shares fluctuate in value on a minute-by-minute basis, this short-term focus is unhealthy for investors who are generally in it for the long term. 
I think a better question to ask would be, “What will my property be worth in 10 years’ time?”
 
The scary thing for some is that there are commentators out there suggesting property values won’t rise for another decade. Just look at the financial mess the world has got itself into, they say. 
Then there are the overseas gurus who come and visit us predicting the world is about to go through an economic tsunami that will finally swamp Australian property, taking prices all the way back to where they were a decade ago. 
But there’s nothing new about these property pessimists – they’ve always been around, and they’ve always been wrong. Just look what happened to property values in the first decade of this millennium. 
I still clearly remember the turn of the century. While many were celebrating a new millennium, others had concerns. Some were worried that the millennium bug would melt down our computers and others were uneasy about our property markets. We were moving out of a difficult decade, which commenced with the “recession we had to have”, and there were concerns that property values could not increase any further. 
At the time we were paying less than $300,000 for an average house in Sydney; $245,000 in Melbourne; $144,000 in Brisbane; $149,000 in Perth; $188,000 in Darwin; $128,000 in Adelaide and $113,000 in Hobart. 
Fast forward 10 years or so and look at what we paying for the average house today! 
In many cities property prices have increased by more than 140%, despite a recession in 2001, the introduction of the GST, the dot.com stock market crash, going to war in Iraq, a change in government, periods of high interest rates and the world’s worst economic downturn since the Great Depression. 
I’m sure more Australians would have bought properties 10 years ago if they knew what would happen to values over the next decade.
 
Of course I don’t know what’s ahead in the next 10 years, but I do know that there will be just as many hurdles to jump over. 
Remember – obstacles are the scary things you see when you take your eyes off your goals. 
And while parts of the world are in economic turmoil, Australia’s main trading partners are experiencing boom times and the good news is that the fundamentals suggest the next 10 years are going to be just as good, if not better, for property than the last 10 years were. 
We are moving into a new economic cycle, driven by the mother of all resources booms. At the same time our population is still growing strongly and we need more dwellings for the same number of people because we are forming smaller households than before. However, we have a shortage of housing (in some areas), vacancy rates are low, rents are rising and the cost of new construction is escalating. 
Putting all this together means that property values are once again likely to rise significantly over the next decade. But if history repeats itself, and it will, during that time we will have another property boom, a further property slump and most likely another recession. 
To safely steer through the next decade to the point where their property values will have once again doubled, successful investors will need to disregard the “market noise” and not be intimidated by the small stuff, like interest rate increases, tax issues and the negative news in the media. 
Instead, they will need to focus on the big picture.Look at it this way – imagine you were a visitor from overseas and came to any of our capital cities10 years ago and returned again today – you would scarcely recognize the new landscape. 
What are our cities going to look like in 10 to 15 years’ time? 
The key drivers of how our property markets are going change will be population growth and the change in our lifestyle and housing preferences, so it’s really by analysing demographics, the study of populations, that we will understand what the future of the property markets hold for us. 
These issues are going to be far more important to the “big picture” than the changes in the interest rates or the cyclical economic fluctuations that we will endure, because these relatively secondary influences won’t change the momentum of the population that is growing with its very definite housing requirements. 
Economist Christopher Joye <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/start-spreading-the-news-australian-cities-must-become-more-like-manhattan-christopher-joye/2011090151384">recently</a> explained that Australia will likely have to absorb 2.3 million additional households over the next 15 years alone. BIS Shrapnel estimates that this translates into a new home building requirement of about 3 million properties once you account for demolitions and the historical share of unoccupied homes (e.g., holiday houses, etc). 
There is no doubt that this substantial increase in population will bring with it many social, political, infrastructure and environmental concerns. But it will also ensure that well-located properties will double in value just as they have over the last decade and the decade before that. And in fact the one before that also. 
At the same time there will be billions of dollars worth of activity in home extensions and alterations.  We will also require more shopping centers, nursing homes and hospital beds as well as schools and petrol stations. 
We can take the reassurance from these figures that over the next 10 years, conditions in our capital cities are likely to be even better than we experienced over the last 10 years and overall properties will increase in value by billions of dollars a year and they won’t care who owns them. 
It becomes even more fascinating when you consider that Melbourne and Sydney will each require about 40,000 new apartments over the next 10 years. This is equivalent to 200 high-rise buildings, each accommodating 200 apartments. Things will get interesting because while our community requests less urban sprawl, it also wants less high-rise living, so the idealistic preferences will have to give way to reality. 
It is likely that we will have more decentralised development in the future with the emergence of medium- to high-rise residential buildings in the suburbs rather than just in the inner-suburban areas.  These will occur around public transport terminals, railway stations and possibly conjunction with large shopping centers. We will also see the continuation of the trend of integrating housing medium residential development with existing strip shopping centers. 
It will be interesting to look back in 10 years’ time and see how things pan out. 
In the meantime successful investors will take a big picture view, buy more well-located properties and see the value of their portfolio steadily increase. 
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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Property prices likely to increase in next decade

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/september21pettit]}
Ken Woolley's striking Modernist 1960s Pettit + Sevitt project home, built recently with 21st-century thinking, has been listed for October 8 McGrath auction with $1.18 million plus hopes.
The latest five-bedroom, two-bathroom Lowline house project by the veteran architect was built at the request of Val Sevitt, the widow of company co-founder Ron Sevitt.
Its design on the 960-square-metre block has been aimed at simplicity, timelessness and functionality taking the best of the past with current-day details.
It is three decades after the original building company closed its doors, and earlier this year the new-look Pettit + Sevitt was completed in the Sydney Hills district of Kellyville.
The house is built on a conventional concrete slab using brick veneer and features western red cedar windows and exposed wooden beams.
The original 1960s house design has been updated to meet modern building requirements.
It certainly incorporates a number of environmental features, including solar panels, reverse-cycle air-conditioning and in-ground rainwater tanks.
"It’s a new millennium version of a modernist cult classic," its McGrath listing agent Mark Vinogradov says.
"It enjoys a peaceful setting close to local shops and city bound transport with views to Castle Hill golf club.
"It has family functional architecture and premium quality additions," he notes.
Pettit + Sevitt relaunched in 2009 under the directorship of Ron Sevitt’s widow, Val Sevitt, and her children, Colin Sevitt and Carol Perry.
Ken Woolley who has had an ongoing association with the project home company, desgined the new prototype Lowline house.
Sevitt says the project  produced a prototype that could form the basis of another project, possible a split-level design.
She says there has been client interest in having the Lowline built on vacant blocks elsewhere in Sydney, but clients had yet to secure suitable blocks.
At one stage Pettit + Sevitt was building 400 of Lowline houses a year with about 3,500 built in the 1960s and '70s.
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Pettit + Sevitt home just as groovy in 21st century

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Small lenders are unable to compete with the major banks’ discounted mortgage offers, according to mortgage broker Mortgage Choice.
“Competition between the major banks is fairly fierce at present, to attract new customers and to keep their existing customers from jumping ship. Unfortunately the smaller lenders just don't have the volumes required for them to be able to discount to this extent,” Mortgage Choice spokeswoman Kristy Sheppard has told Property Observer.
Sheppard confirms that Mortgage Choice brokers are able to work with its lender partners to offer discounted rates for borrowers, depending on the loan-to-valuation ratio.
“We do have discounts of 1% available at the moment through our panel. The lender's decision on the discount applied boils down to the customer's loan amount and LVR,” she says.
Her comments come as the <a target="_blank" href="/news">level of competition among the major banks intensifies</a> to such an extent that they appear willing to sacrifice profits to gain market share.
In the current mortgage discounting cycle, JP Morgan analyst Scott Manning says the “risk to earnings has clearly shifted to the downside in our view”. 
“Although discounting off headline rates is nothing new, the speed with which it has developed, and the depth at which it now is, is quite remarkable,” Manning says in a note to clients. 
“What is interesting is that firstly, this pricing competition seems to be driven by the current players (i.e., existing lenders looking to take market share from others, or to match price to retain market share), as opposed to new entrants coming into the market to erode the power of incumbents. Interestingly, the average discount is now actually above those levels seen pre-GFC at 90 basis points.”
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Small lenders casualties of big bank mortgage wars: Mortgage Choice

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Property investors who use their self-managed super funds to borrow and acquire property need to ensure they use an advisor who fully understands the complexity of state property laws or face the prospect of paying double or even triple stamp duty on their purchases.
“We have eight different jurisdictions and each have their own different independent laws, their own property laws, their own stamp duty laws, and their own land tax law,” said Daniel Butler, director of DBA lawyers, during an address at this week’s National SMSF Conference hosted by the Institute of Chartered Accountants.
“Filling out some of these forms can be quite tricky, and if you are not filling them out properly they could backfire on you,” he says.
“There is the risk of paying double duty. I am not embellishing this point. We have seen triple duty paid upfront before the transaction has passed through ASIC.”
One way to incur additional stamp duty, he says, is for an investor to pay for a portion of an investment property using his or her own funds such as writing a personal cheque for the deposit.
In this scenario, a trustee could incur additional stamp duty charges when the loan is paid out and the property title is returned to the super fund. (Limited recourse borrowing arrangements require that the property title be held by a holding trust while the loan is being repaid).
“The deposit and every dollar paid on that property must be paid by the super fund,” Butler says.
“I can tell you that those clients who don’t take advice upfront and pay the deposit from their own pocket – 10 of 15 years down the track they could be facing another layer of stamp duty,” he says.
In fact, Butler advises accountants to indemnify themselves against future claims if their client has already paid the deposit out of their own pocket.
States differ on what must be in place before a contract can be signed. For example, in Queensland and Western Australia a holding trust deed must be signed before SMSF trustees enters into a contract to acquire a property.
“You even have to be careful how the purchaser is described on the contract, because this could incur stamp duty issues.
“We have done transactions all cross Australia and we have found little details in each jurisdictions,” Butler says.
And don’t expect much sympathy from state revenue offices if you incur extra costs and charges.
“The job of state revenue offices is to raise taxes, so don’t expect too much pity from them,” he says.
“Best practice is to have the structure and the documents in place at the time of signing that contract. In some jurisdictions this could prove fatal to a double or triple stamp duty condition.”
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SMSF trustees warned about overpaying stamp duty

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Westpac continues to stick its neck out and forecast an interest rate cut before the end of the year following the release of the minutes from the September RBA monetary policy meeting.
Westpac chief economist Bill Evans says the minutes suggest an October rate cut is a possibility, but he believes December – the bank’s long-held and lonely position – to be the most likely date.
Evans notes the extensive use of the word “weak” when describing domestic economic conditions in the minutes – “for private non-residential building approvals; for the housing market; and for the demand for credit”.
“Financial conditions are described as tighter than normal,” he says.
In contrast to the Westpac position, Commonwealth expects a rate rise in the first quarter of 2012 while NAB expects rates to remain on hold until November next year.
Evans places particurlarly focus on the final line of the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/housing-weakness-highlighted-in-cautious-rba-minutes/2011092051619" target="_blank">minutes</a>: “For the present, however, members considered that the current setting of monetary policy left the board well placed to respond to evolving global and domestic economic conditions.”
“One way to look at this is to note that if the board was considering the possibility of lower rates then to have a monetary policy setting that is in the contractionary zone allows ample flexibility to act,” Evans says. “Indeed the wording of this line does not preclude a rate cut in October. That is not our view but we have to note that the Bank's language has evolved very quickly away from a very hawkish tightening bias over the last few months.”
Evans notes the prominent mention of the deteriorating global economic outlook in the minutes and the fact that RBA optimism about the medium term growth outlook is qualified by the statement "providing that the world economic outlook did not continue to deteriorate". “Commentary on the current economic environment is more downbeat than in previous minutes, "near term growth outlook looked somewhat weaker than had been expected earlier", "the broader economy was softer than earlier expected".
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