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]

Joel Robinson

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 

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

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

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>

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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>

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Ellen Walker

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

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Sydney was the only capital city where rental vacancies eased over the month of July, according new research by property research company SQM Research. 
Vacancies eased by 0.2% to 1.6% during the month of July. A year ago the vacancy rate stood at 1.5%. 
Canberra again recorded the tightest vacancy rate for the month of July –  remaining at 0.7, or a total of 333 vacancies. 
Vacancies in Brisbane, Perth and Darwin all fell by 0.1% during the month of July. 
The Melbourne vacancy rate remained unchanged at 2.8%, with 10,238 properties available for rent. 
Nationally residential vacancies have plateaued for the month of July, remaining at a tight 1.9% for the second consecutive month. 
Total vacancies stand at 49,466 nationally, compared with 48,330 in July 2010. 
SQM managing director Louis Christopher says: “A general oversupply of stock for sale and an undersupply of properties for rent. That is where the market is right now. It perfectly explains why we have falling house prices while rents are rising at a faster rate than inflation.” 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
City
</td>
<td>
Vacancies July 2010
</td>
<td>
Vacancy %
</td>
<td>
Vacancies June 2011
</td>
<td>
Vacancy %
</td>
<td>
Vacancies July 2011
</td>
<td>
Vacancy %
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Sydney
</td>
<td>
8398
</td>
<td>
1.5
</td>
<td>
7883
</td>
<td>
1.4
</td>
<td>
8575
</td>
<td>
1.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Melbourne
</td>
<td>
9311
</td>
<td>
2.6
</td>
<td>
10086
</td>
<td>
2.8
</td>
<td>
10238
</td>
<td>
2.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Brisbane
</td>
<td>
5739
</td>
<td>
2.3
</td>
<td>
5272
</td>
<td>
2.1
</td>
<td>
5018
</td>
<td>
2.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Adelaide
</td>
<td>
1440
</td>
<td>
1.0
</td>
<td>
2277
</td>
<td>
1.6
</td>
<td>
2286
</td>
<td>
1.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Perth
</td>
<td>
2591
</td>
<td>
1.6
</td>
<td>
2005
</td>
<td>
1.3
</td>
<td>
1900
</td>
<td>
1.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Canberra
</td>
<td>
268
</td>
<td>
0.6
</td>
<td>
332
</td>
<td>
0.7
</td>
<td>
333
</td>
<td>
0.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Hobart
</td>
<td>
307
</td>
<td>
1.3
</td>
<td>
451
</td>
<td>
1.9
</td>
<td>
442
</td>
<td>
1.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Darwin
</td>
<td>
212
</td>
<td>
0.9
</td>
<td>
282
</td>
<td>
1.2
</td>
<td>
261
</td>
<td>
1.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
National
</td>
<td>
48330
</td>
<td>
1.9
</td>
<td>
49125
</td>
<td>
1.9
</td>
<td>
49466
</td>
<td>
1.9
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Perth is the capital city to experience the largest year-on-year decline, falling by 0.4% since July 2010.
 
The capital city to experience the largest year-on-year growth was Adelaide, rising by 0.6% to 1.6%, or a total of 2,286 vacancies.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Rental vacancies ease in Sydney, plateau nationally

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Australian government employees’ super fund ARIA (Australian Reward Investment Alliance) is considering buying half of Perth’s QV1 office building for $300 million.
The 43-storey office tower at 250 St George Terrace was designed by architect Harry Seidler and completed in September 1991. It overlooks the Swan River.
It cost about $340 million to build.
The super fund is carrying out due diligence on the building, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review.
If the sale goes ahead it will be the biggest office deal of the year in Perth.
However, it is by no means certain. In April this year, Queensland Investment Corporation conducted due diligence on a half-share of QV1 but did not proceed with the purchase.
Up for sale is the half share owned by property group Dexus, which appointed CBRE as selling agent in August 2010. Rob Sewell, Rick Butler and Peter Agostino from CBRE are in charge of the sale.
The other half is owned by the Investa Property Group, which had pre-emptive rights to buy the half owned by Dexus.
Tenants include Shell, Chevron, Allens Arthur Robinson, Texaco, Freehills and PwC.
According to the QV1 website it is fully tenanted.
ARIA has a $2.5 billion unlisted property portfolio.
The super fund is being assisted by the Eureka Property Group, which last year helped ARIA acquire a tower on Clarence Street in Sydney for $83 million.
Office vacancies in Perth have dropped from more than 10% to 7.8% over the six months to July, with virtually no prime space available in the city.
The last major office transaction in Perth took place in June when half of 108 St George Terrace, the BankWest Tower, was sold for $260 million to US fund manager Brookfield Asset Management.
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Government employee super fund tipped to buy half of Perth office tower QV1

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Home alterations and additions have escaped the fiscal consumer tightening, with a 4.5% annual jump in spending during the June quarter.
With an Easter and onwards fillip in alteration work around the home, some $1.72 billion was spent during the June quarter.
It was the highest June quarter outlay since 2008.
With spring in the air, and in the lead up to Christmas, the December quarter has always rated as the busiest quarter since ABS records began in 1987.
The only exception was in 2000 when – with the GST looming – the June quarter topped that year's quarterly outlay with $1.64 billion on alterations and additions.
In the 2010-11 financial year Australians spent $6.8 billion on alterations and additions.
It was $6.52 billion in 2009-10 and $6.64 billion in 2008-09.
The details were in the ABS preliminary statistics for the value of work done in Australia during the June quarter.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Spike in renos undeterred by property gloom

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Auction volumes have being falling away during the past four weeks, according to RP Data.
“We have recorded 4,607 auctions across Australia’s capitals compared with 5,245 auctions over the same period last year,” RP Data research director Tim Lawless says.
“With the housing market in the doldrums and only half of the auctions being held clearing, it is logical to assume that fewer vendors are selling their home via an auction campaign.
“Based on rough calculations, around 24% of homes being sold in June were taken to auction while during the same period one year prior the figure was up around 30%,” Lawless notes.
He says that auction clearance rates across the major capital cities have held fairly steady around the 50% mark since late last year.
During the height of the market back in 2009, as many as 80% of auctions were clearing.
“That was just before the first interest rate rise was announced, and from that time clearance rates trended downwards in line with the market slow down,” he says.
<img src="/images/stories/rpdataaugust251.jpg">
“During the GFC clearance rates fell as low as 42% across the combined capital cities, so the auction results being recorded currently aren’t far off that mark.
“The lowest clearance rate recorded during the year so far has been 43% in late April.
“The key to a successful auction in this depressed market comes back to ensuring an appropriate marketing campaign is in place and the reserve price is set realistically,” he suggests.
<img src="/images/stories/rpdataaugust252.jpg">
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Auction volumes significantly down: RP Data

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Upmarket London developer Nick Candy met executives from US private equity giant Blackstone Group, owner of Goldfields House redevelopment site, on his recent trip to Australia.
The coveted 25-storey Sydney property overlooking Circular Quay has some of the best views in town and has been mooted for a luxury residential redevelopment for the past few years.
It has been suggested that Candy brothers Nick and Christian might see the coveted harbourfront site as their envisaged first Australian project.
Blackstone now has control of its future following the exit of Valad. The 1966 office block's most recent valuation was $290 million.
A Candy spokesperson has confirmed that he met Blackstone executives, but would not comment on "specific deals" when asked by The Australian.
The brothers are known for One Hyde Park, the world's glitziest apartment blocks in the well-heeled London suburb of Knightsbridge.
Prices for the 86 apartments start from £6.75 million ($10.6m) for a one-bedroom flat.
Its penthouse set a record, selling £136 million in April.
It was a joint venture between Christian Candy's Guernsey-based CPC Group and Waterknights, owned by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jabr Al Thani.
Nick Candy came to Australia recently with his partner, the Australian actress Holly Valance.
"We would love to do the One Hyde Park in Sydney," Nick Candy said last month.
"We bring development management expertise, understanding how to build for the super wealthy.
"But we would want to have a local partner because of the planning laws and construction."
Previously local developers including Grocon, Lang Walker, Mirvac and Lend Lease have expressed interest in the site.
Blackstone awaits development approval from the Sydney City Council for two residential towers with about 40,000 square metres of residential space.
Valad bought the site in 2006 for $274 million and sold a 40% stake to the Dutch pension fund APG in 2008.
In May, when Blackstone’s takeover offer was mooted, Valad said that the Sydney Local Environment Plan 2005 (Amendment No. 2), which was previously approved by the Sydney City Council, had been gazetted by the government.
''This enables Valad to pursue development approval for the redevelopment of Goldfields House,'' Valad's then acting chief executive Clem Salwin said.
 
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Luxe London developer Nick Candy might see Goldfields House as a sweet possibility

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As Melbourne’s urban fringe expands, the distance between where people live and the vital amenities they require grows with it. Developing Melbourne’s outskirts must be about developing thriving communities, and a balanced approach to housing, infrastructure, transport and community centres to accommodate the city’s growing population is critical.
Establishing project viability before designing new estates is crucial. Planners often do not give enough consideration to developing and sustaining both a sense of, and the reality of, community.
A lot of Melbourne’s urban expansion areas are more than 20 kilometres from the GPO. But instead of great viable swathes of land, many of the farm allotments being bought up for development are on a scale that is unviable. Empty paddocks are prime territory for developers, but a patchwork of 20- to 50-hectare parcels of land on Melbourne’s outskirts creates a fragmented arrangement.
Our growing population and the Australian dream of home ownership are driving the city’s expansion. And critical to the viability of these new communities is the basic infrastructure that will support them – roads, rail, community centres, sporting facilities and jobs. To make these outer land areas workable, places where people really want to live, the community infrastructure needs to be sold in early.
Affordability is a major driver in our city’s expansion, with the reality of home ownership increasingly unattainable for families overwhelmed by inner-city prices. Along with affordability, we must advocate for diverse housing. Melburnians want to choose from a greater range of housing types. We don’t all have the same needs, and there is a shortage of semi-detached houses and apartments in Melbourne’s outer areas that must be addressed.
We need accommodation for all types of people, including social housing, in the growth areas, and secondly, we must assist vital emergency services in strategic land identification, including developing sites, and locating future potential infrastructure.
When we talk about building homes on Melbourne’s outskirts, what we should be talking about is creating communities. Lack of robust community is the reason for dysfunction on urban fringe developments. Government, council and developers wrongly assume that everybody wants the same thing. People live in developing areas of the urban fringe because of affordability issues, but for others, there’s choice involved, there’s the attraction of green space and a large backyard, there’s the attraction of having family close by.
The question about these developments should be: what infrastructure with community in mind has been implemented? Although improvement in infrastructure is one thing, if it isn’t connected by quality transport and good roads, another raft of issues emerges. Some of Melbourne’s new estates do not have a train station within walking distance, or even any plans for a viable public transport link to the CBD. Lack of infrastructure and transport encourages car dependency, and in many instances, relying on a car is not a lifestyle choice.
While some speculators have done very well from Melbourne’s growth areas, with expansion comes a growing uneasiness about Melbourne’s ability to sustain these new communities. Residents and councils are worried about the basics: the inability of roads and other infrastructure to cope as new residents face long journeys to work because there are not enough local jobs. This is something that should concern us all.
Developers, government, council and landowners must tune into the community imperative in order for urban fringe developments to thrive. In the future, people may well pay more to live in a solid community, and with it, enjoy the benefits of varied cultural components and diversity that is presently given so little consideration.
Planned expansion is the only way forward, where a balance between the sometimes competing interests of developers, landowners, government and councils are brought to the table for workable solutions. The future of our city’s growth areas relies on our ability, whether or not we are advocates of such expansion, to accommodate more people, different households, diverse housing types, better-planned neighbourhoods and the vital infrastructure required to sustain it.
Gerard Coutts is a property strategist and director of <a href="https://www.gerardcoutts.com.au/" title="Gerard Coutts &amp; Associates" target="_blank">Gerard Coutts &amp; Associates</a>
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gcoutts-CKJLxPCkvE

Community is key for developments on the fringe

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Listed mortgage broker Mortgage Choice has revealed 2011 full-year cash profits of $15.9 million, an increase of 7.4% on the $14.8 million achieved in the previous year.
On an IFRS (international financial reporting standards) basis, net profit after tax was $27.5 million is up 17% on $23.5 million achieved in 2010.
The sold result was achieved despite CEO Michael Russell calling the last year “one of the most demanding for the company’s brokers and staff in our 19 years of operation”.
The franchise group’s mortgage book rose 6% to $42.4 billion on the back of significant franchise network growth “during a period defined by the financial conservatism of consumers and businesses”.
It 523 brokers generated $9.9 billion in housing loan approvals.
“We are pleased to announce a 7.4% rise in cash profit, a 5.4% lift in franchise numbers, our group market share reaching 4.1% of all new home loans in Australia and our customer satisfaction rating averaging 92.3% for the year,” Russell says. “We also saw stable productivity from our Mortgage Choice brokers, who average 58 loans each per year, and a doubling of the brokers in our aggregation arm, LoanKit.”
Russell says if mortgage conditions remain subdued for a number of years, its brokers are “well equipped to continue to run successful operations that concentrate on areas of growth located within both the home loan market and other realms of personal and commercial finance”.
“If interest rates hold steady into the 2012 calendar year, which is looking more likely, employment remains healthy and vendor discounting continues at this pace we could well see a second and third consecutive quarter of housing finance growth to finish off the calendar year,” he says.
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Mortgage Choice cash profits up 7% to $16 million

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Residential and commercial construction remains in the doldrums, according to the latest ABS statics.
The value of residential building construction undertaken during the June quarter fell 4.1% while commercial construction fell 6.1% on a seasonally adjusted basis.
During the June quarter just over $9.5 billion in residential building work was undertaken compared to $10.1 billion in the March quarter. Strong activity levels occurred in Queensland, with construction work up 14.9% over the quarter
Westpac says the state is experiencing a “strong post flood rebound” with strength in “infrastructure activity, both private and public”.
The biggest slump in construction activity occurred in the Northern Territory (down 19%) while among the bigger states NSW recording a decline of 4.4% with Victoria down 3.1%.
“Weakness was generally evident elsewhere. Public building activity is weakening as stimulus is being unwound. The housing sector is facing a number of headwinds and private non-residential building activity remains weak,” Westpac says.
The value of alterations and additions to existing houses increased marginally from $1.73 billion in the March quarter to $1.79 billion over the June quarter.
For the year to date, the value of residential building construction undertaken is down 7.6% while commercial building is down 23.2%. Westpac said construction work in the second quarter was broadly in line with expectations.
The HIA called the figures "a disappointing update for new housing activity".
HIA chief economist Harley Dale said: “New residential building work done fell by 5.4% reflecting a 1.8% decline in detached housing and a slump of 11.9% in "other dwellings".
“This result suggests that new dwelling investment will detract from GDP growth in the June quarter national accounts due for release in two week's time.”
Overall, construction activity rose 0.7% over the June quarter and is up 2% on the year due to engineering construction increasing 5.9% over the quarter and 21.2% for the year to date.
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New home building slumps in June quarter

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It seems that people were happy to be in the audience, but no one wanted to regret their 15 minutes of fame by committing to 25 years of debt on overvalued properties at The Block’s weekend auction. 
I think they should name the next series "The Chopping Block" – though it's more likely the series itself will be on the chopping block given that dismal final day. 
The ratings may have been fantastic for Nine, but how would it look if next year's lot lost a bundle on their renovations? 
I like one comment I saw on the SMH story about this: the writer remarked that the only real winner was the vendor who sold those four places to the show for $3.6 million in the first place! 
The auction reserve prices were over the top, a clear sign that prices are in a bubble when cottages like that are expected to go for close to a million. 
The buyers may end up being the "canaries in the coal mine" – or rather the starlings pretending to be canaries.
Steve Keen is an associate professor of economics and finance at the University of Western Sydney. He maintains a blog on the economy, <a href="https://www.debtdeflation.com/blogs/" title="Steve Keen's Debtwatch" target="_blank">Steve Keen's Debtwatch.</a>
This article was written before the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/auctions/take-two-auction-frenzy-as-only-one-offering-left-on-the-block/2011082351266" title="Rod and Tania's house sells" target="_blank">recent sale of the final two Block properties</a>.
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stevekeen-hGRrVP8sYD

Block buyers may end up being starlings in the coalmine: Steve Keen

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Median house prices in the resource boom town of Gladstone, 550 kilometres north of Brisbane, increased by 6.1% over the June quarter, according to Real Estate Institute of Queensland figures. The median house price in <a target="_blank" title="Gladstone" href="/news">Gladstone </a>now stands at $440,250 and has grown 10.8% over the year to June. The institute does not provide the number of properties sold, but realestate.com.au listings reveal that around 115 Gladstone properties changed hands over the three-months period. The most expensive Gladstone house currently up for sale on realestate.com.au is a six-bedroom, two-bathroom dwelling on a 1,500-square-metre block at 3 Yarroon Street, being sold by Darryle Branthwaite from Raine &amp; Horne Gladstone. The property is being targeted at developers and is already zoned for high-density residential with a price tag of $1.2 million.
The surge in houses prices in Gladstone follows the REIQ revealing that <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/gladstone-almost-out-of-rental-space-at-height-of-mining-boom/2011081651182" title="Gladstone almost out of rental space" target="_blank">rental vacancies over the June quarter fell from 1.4% to just 0.6% </a>on the back of big energy, mining and infrastructure projects scheduled to commence in the region over the next 10 years. “The multibillion-dollar investment in Queensland’s resources industry in the Central Queensland region is again behind Gladstone’s strong performance but we are also seeing this market strength radiate out to its neighbours of Mackay and Rockhampton in this quarter as well,” says chairwoman Pamela Bennett. Mackay’s median house price increased 4.4% to $413,500 over the quarter, while the number of preliminary house sales in Rockhampton was up 23% compared with the previous quarter.
According to Bennett, the strength of Queensland’s resources sector will underpin the Queensland property market more broadly from the second half of 2012 or early 2013. 
Latest figures from the institute show the median price of Coast housing fell by 0.1% during the three-month period and are down 2.8% for the year to June. It left the median price of Sunshine Coast houses at $450,000 at the end of the June quarter.
The three-month result outshone the Gold Coast (down 6.1%), the Fraser Coast (down 5.1%), <a target="_blank" title="Ipswich" href="/news">Ipswich </a>(down 4.7%), <a target="_blank" title="Cairns" href="/news">Cairns </a>(down 5.6%) and Rockhampton (down 3.9%).
The Sunshine Coast also performed well in volume of sales for the quarter, with figures slightly up while the Gold Coast fell 9% and Cairns was down 10%.
Best-performing suburb for the 12 months was the <a target="_blank" title="Mooloolah Valley" href="/news">Mooloolah Valley</a>, where the median price of a house rose 20.2% to $478,000 while <a target="_blank" title="Moffat Beach" href="/news">Moffat Beach</a> also fared well, up 13.5% to $520,000.
<a target="_blank" title="Doonan" href="/news">Doonan </a>was up 11.9% to $670,000 and <a target="_blank" title="Parrerrea" href="/news">Parrearra </a>rose 8.4% to $535,000.
At the other end of the scale, the median price of a house at Sunshine Beach fell 34.6% over the 12 months to June 30, down to $1.23 million.
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