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>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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Two Southbank listings have made it onto SQM Research's Top 10 Most Discounted Properties list.
The list remains quite steady from last week, but for the new entrant in Melbourne's Southbank precinct. It’s in the Yarra Condos building, which is close to the Arts Centre, Southgate restaurants and shops.
The 10th place property is a $1.1 million Kavanagh Street, Southbank offering. SQM notes it been on the market since September 2010 when it was listed with unrealised $1,565,000 hopes. It represents a 30% decline in expectation for the three-bedroom unit with Botanic Gardens and bay views.
Number nine on the list, 2506/83 Queensbridge Street, Southbank, has been discounted by 30% to $1.5 million plus. This property is some $600,000 less that the vendor's original asking price last October. Ideally the vendor will take $1.65 million.
The week's list is topped by 588 White Beach Road, White Beach in Tasmania.
Discounts in other suburbs are available with a <a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts.php" title="Home Discount Report" target="_blank">SQM Research Home Discounts Report </a>detailing all the properties that have been on the market for a period of over 60 days.
1
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106479093" title="588 white beach road" target="_blank">588 White Beach Road, White Beach, Tasmania, 7184</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $780,000
Current asking price: $400,000
Reduction: 49%
Days on market: 441
 
 2
<a target="_blank" title="1350 Wynnym Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106966579">1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa, Queensland, 4173</a>
On the market since: November 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 46%
Days on market: 273
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">3</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="3 Boolari Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105832903">3 Boolari Road, Gosford West, NSW, 2250</a>
On the market since: July 8, 2009
Initial asking price: $990,000
Current asking price: $580,000
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 759
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">4</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="1/21 Ocean Drive" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106550670">1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee, WA, 6166</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.7 million
Current asking price: $1.6 million
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 441
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008491614" title="25 Vicary Street" target="_blank">25 Vicary Street, Triabunna, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: August 2, 2010
Initial asking price: $299,000
Current asking price: $189,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 371
 
 6
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105294317" title="3 Zelma Court" target="_blank">3 Zelma Court, Macleay Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $380,000
Current asking price: $250,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 440
 
7
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106138206" title="1/16 Dewar Way, Ledge Point" target="_blank">1/16 Dewar Way, Ledge Point, 6043</a>
On the market since: November 15, 2009
Initial asking price: $375,000
Current asking price: $250,000
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 629
 
 8
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106584332" title="102 Countryside Drive" target="_blank">102 Countryside Drive, Two Rocks, WA, 6037</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2010
Initial asking price: $855,000
Current asking price: $570,000
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 427
 
9
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008659274" title="2506/83 Queensbridge Street" target="_blank">2506/83 Queensbridge Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006</a>
On the market since: October 31, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.15 million
Current asking price: $1.5 million
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 280
 
10
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106820916" title="195/38 Kavanagh Street" target="_blank">195/38 Kavanagh Street, Southbank, VIC, 3006</a>
On the market since: September 11, 2010
Initial asking price: $1,565,000 
Current asking price: $1.1 million
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 329
 
 
 
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research" target="_blank">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Southbank luxury apartments on SQM's most discounted list

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Westpac’s regular pronouncements of a rate cut have failed to sway consumers, with more than two-thirds expecting rates to rise. 
The bank has backed up its rate cut expectations by lowering its three-year fixed rate product by 0.2% to 6.59% on home loans above $150,000
According to the latest Westpac Red Book, written by senior economist Matthew Hassan, the bank expects a 100 basis point rate cut by September 2012. 
However, despite an easing of late rise fears following the global turmoil, 61% of consumers still expect rates to rise over the next 12 months. 
Two out five consumers expect a 1% increase in the cash rate over the next year. 
Consumers in WA and Queensland are the least hawkish, while those in South Australia, NSW and Victoria have the highest expectation of a rate rise over the coming year. 
“The spread of consumer responses in August points to an average expected rise of 52 basis points over the next 12 months, in line with the consensus of economic forecasters,” says Matthew Hassan, senior economist at Westpac and author of the Red Book. 
“Consumers can be excused for being in two minds on rates with a similar divergence apparent between the consensus view of economic forecasters (+50 basis points by Jun 2012), and futures markets (–150 basis points by April 2012) around the same time,” he says.
<img src="/images/stories/westpacaugust19.jpg">
Source: Westpac Red Book
Industry bodies such as the HIA have said fears of interest rate rises are a key factor in the current stagnant housing market and drop in residential construction.
According to the Red Book, consumer sentiment about the housing market eased slightly in August, but still remains in positive territory. 
Consumer views on whether now is a “good time to buy a dwelling’ fell by 4% in August following 9.8% gain over the previous three months. 
Despite the fall the index remains above the 10-year average. 
Housing sentiment has suffered the biggest fall in Western Australia, down 10% over the last three months and unemployment expectations up 40%. 
“Although that may be surprising given the state’s resource sector exposure, the Perth housing market has been much weaker than the rest of the nation, especially price-wise,” Hassan says.
<img src="/images/stories/westpacaugust191.jpg">
Source: Westpac Red Book
In comparison sentiment to buying a car fell 6.2% in August, with the index running slightly below its long-run average and at its lowest reading since August 2008.
Major lenders such as the CBA and ANZ have all made big cuts to their fixed rate mortgage products – often seen as an indicator that rates will fall. 
Interest rates have not risen since November 2010.</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Consumers far more hawkish than banks on interest rates: Westpac Redbook

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The Australian Securities and Investments Commission has warned of unlicensed businesses offering home loans.
Ezy Savings and Caveat Loans ITstrong are not registered Australian companies, and they do not have Australian offices or valid business addresses. 
However, ASIC is aware these two unlicensed businesses are offering services for home loans for an upfront fee. All lenders, brokers and credit intermediaries must be licensed by ASIC in order to offer consumer credit products and services.
Subsequent to ASIC making inquiries in relation to the complaints it received about Ezy Savings and Caveat Loans ITstrong, their websites have disappeared.
But unsolicited telephone calls – known as “cold calls” – to consumers have continued. This involves consumers being subjected to high-pressure and often misleading or deceptive sales methods to persuade them to pay an advance fee towards obtaining a loan. When consumers pay the fee the loan was not provided and consumers cannot contact the business.
All contact with consumers is made by phone, fax or email. The phone numbers appearing on the companies' websites and business documents have been traced to an end-user in India. ASIC inquiries have established that money paid by consumers has been transferred overseas.
ASIC told Property Observer its inquiries were continuing so its didn't have a definitive number on consumers who have lost money.
It says the scam has been running Australia-wide – with its investigators having spoken with complainants from nearly all states It had not been able to establish how the callers know that the consumers wanted a loan.
“It may be, in some instances, that the consumers have simply succumbed to the high-pressure sales tactics,” an ASIC spokesperson says.
Consumers should check basic company and business details by consulting <a target="_blank" title="ASIC" href="https://www.asic.gov.au">ASIC’s website </a>, which contains a listing of all registered Australian companies and businesses.
ASIC’s <a target="_blank" title="Money Smart" href="https://www.moneysmart.gov.au">MoneySmart website</a> also provides information on how to avoid scams.</body></html>

ASIC issues warning over home loan scams

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According to the latest survey of the world’s wealthy by Merrill Lynch and Capgemini, there are now 192,900 high-net-worth individuals in Australia, up 11.1% from last year. To get onto this rich list you need to have more than $1 million of investable assets – not including your family home, collectible items and super.
The most startling statistic was our standing in the global wealth rankings of numbers of high-net-worth individuals. Australia rose one spot in 2010 to be ninth out of the 71 countries covered by the report. We’re now in front of many countries with vastly larger populations than Australia.
Another interesting statistic from the <a href="https://www.capgemini.com/services-and-solutions/by-industry/financial-services/solutions/wealth/worldwealthreport/" title="More about the report.">World Wealth Report</a> was that in 2010, a mere 103,000 people of the nearly 7 billion people on the planet controlled 36.1% of the world’s wealth. (This was up from 35.5% in 2009.)
North America had the largest number of so-called ultra-high-net-worth individuals, with 40,000 people worth more than $30 million. By the way, that’s one of the reasons I think the US will eventually work its way through its economic woes. It has more of the world’s high-net-worth individuals than any other country, and there is some smart collective wisdom among these people. They can’t all get it wrong – can they?
But last year was not just a good year for the really wealthy. It was also a good year for the merely rich.
The number of people around the globe with more than $1 million to invest was 10.9 million, up 8.3%, while the amount of money they had, $42.7 trillion, had risen by 9.7%. This was driven largely by the Asian region, including China and, to a lesser extent, Australia.
The report noted that the number of high-net-worth people in Asia, 3.3 million, surpassed the number in Europe, 3.1 million, for the first time. China ranks fourth behind the United States, Japan and Germany for the number of high-net-worth citizens.
Advice for everyone else:
This report also offers some practical insight for those of us who are not super-rich.
For one thing, the wealthiest people around the world put more money into the equities last year and plan to continue to do so. The percentage of assets allocated to equities increased from 29% to 33%, while allocations to fixed interest dropped from 31% to 29% and cash dropped from 17% to 14%.
Not surprisingly, they also invested in real estate. Dorus van den Biezenbos from Capgemini Australia explains: "We see the real estate market as a big contributor to the positive growth number of millionaires in Australia." 
Regardless of what they were investing in, the wealthy were spreading their investments round the world to reduce the risk from political, economic and financial uncertainty. But identifying that safe place is more difficult. The rich generally agreed that they were concerned about the American economy and the potential for political and economic unrest elsewhere.
Not surprisingly the World Wealth Report found that wealthy Asians were the only ones confident in investing in their own region. The report estimated that Asians would maintain the current percentage of their money invested in the region in 2012, while the wealthy in Europe, North America and Latin America indicated that they planned to reduce their allocations to their own regions.
With the rich getting richer yet many of us feeling poorer, knowing how the very rich think about their investments and diversification in an uncertain world can be useful to everyone else. Or it could provide some interesting gossip to share with friends. 
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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myardney-DFoGhGbSJX

The ranks of Australia's super-rich are growing, and they are investing in property

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Suppose you have now decided on your property manager, but in the final discussions you find out that the agency hands out keys to prospective tenants.  This would mean for a $50/$100 deposit and a copy of someone’s driver’s licence, that person is entitled to take a set of keys and inspect the property on their own. 
This process has been around for many, many years.  It was around when I first started my career some 18 years ago, and it’s still around now.  Agencies elect to hand out keys for their own reasons, and I am assuming one would be to free up the property manager to do other things. Furthermore, as agencies have always run this procedure – why would they change?
However, isn’t it part of the role of the leasing specialist or property manager to meet prospective tenants and show them through properties? A leasing specialist is a great advantage to a property manager, as he or she is able to meet and greet prospective tenants on behalf of both the property manager and real estate agency, which is truly a fantastic time saver. Plus it’s all a leasing specialist does, so this alone assists with the reduction of an owner’s vacancy period, which can sometimes be rather stressful for an owner. 
Remember anyone can make themselves look fantastic on a tenancy application form – but isn’t it important to meet people? In my opinion, processing tenancy applications is no different to the interview process that businesses operate.  You want to ensure you do everything possible to secure the right person. 
I can certainly appreciate we all lead busy lives, and many people would appreciate the opportunity to meet someone at the property, whether it’s at a private inspection or a general open for inspection. 
Wouldn’t it be much easier to meet the prospective tenant, rather than have them drive to the agent’s office, collect the keys, drive to the property and then drive back to the agent’s office to return the keys and receive  their money back? A 15-minute inspection could turn into an hour round trip – now who has time for that? 
My advice for owners is to consider the “what ifs” about handing out keys?
<ul>
<li>What happens if the keys are not returned?</li>
<li>Who pays for a change of locks on the entire house? Will insurance cover you?</li>
<li>What happens if the new tenant is broken into after they move in due to the intruder using a set of keys?</li>
<li>Does your landlord insurance cover you to hand out keys?</li>
<li>What happens if <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/absentee-investor-alert-nigerian-scammers-sell-%24410000-house-they-didnt-own/2011081751195" title="Nigerian scammers sell house they didn't own" target="_blank">Nigerian scammers sell your house and whisk the money away to a Chinese bank account</a>? </li>
</ul>
While handing out keys has always been around, perhaps it’s time to see that procedure disappear.
Leah Calnan is the director of <a href="https://www.metropm.com.au/" title="Metro Property Management homepage" target="_blank">Metro Property Management</a> in Victoria and is the chairwoman of the REIV Property Management Chapter.
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leahcalnan-pwE6GD6KY9

Why you should not hand out keys to prospective tenants

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The owner of Crowne Plaza Christchurch, Eureka Funds Management, has confirmed the hotel is to be demolished, following a final ruling by structural engineers that damage sustained during the Christchurch earthquakes in February cannot be repaired.
<img src="/images/stories/crowneplaza.jpg">
Eureka today briefed the hotel’s 160 remaining employees, who have been retained on full pay since the earthquakes, that the Crowne Plaza (pictured above) will not be rebuilt following its demolition.
It joins the Hotel Grand Chancellor in central Christchurch, whose demolition has been pushed back nearly two months by aftershocks. The Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority (Cera) has been advised by contractor Fletcher Construction that it could bring down the 26-storey Grand Chancellor building in 37 weeks.
The Crowne Plaza, located on the corner of Kilmore and Durham streets on the edge of Victoria Square, was situated in a section of the CBD that still remains restricted to public access.
“After careful analysis, our structural engineers have reached the conclusion that the building needs to come down.  The structure is noticeably leaning and cannot be restored to the building codes that were in place at the time of the earthquakes.  It’s essentially broken beyond repair,” says Eureka Funds Management fund manager Glen Boultwood.
“We’ve investigated every possible avenue to restore this hotel.  Based on significantly higher construction costs and additional costs resulting from necessary changes to building codes in the city, the fact remains that it is financially prohibitive for us to re-establish the hotel in Christchurch.”
Eureka Funds Management purchased the 23-year old Crowne Plaza Christchurch in 2008.
Intercontinental Hotel Group has operated the hotel in its portfolio of 50 hotels and resorts across Australasia, as part of the world’s largest hotel network by number of rooms.
Christchurch’s occupancy rate jumped 12% to 62% based on the latest preliminary figures from STR Global, with an average $149 room rate.
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Earthquake-damaged Crowne Plaza Christchurch to be demolished

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Another volatile week on world financial markets leaves us to wonder what it all means for Australian commercial real estate.  It means many things, but most significanty, it further highlights the safe investment haven Australia has become for many asset classes, especially commercial property.
Foreign investors are increasing their prescence in the Australian commercial property sector, especially in the quality end of the market.  In the first six months of 2011, foreign investors accounted for 28% of transactions above $20 million.  This is twice the long term average.  Although only half done, so far in the 3rd quarter, foreign investors represent a staggering 61% of all sales, by volume.
As global volatility grows, so too does foreign investment into the Australian property market.  By far the largest source of funds is now Asia (20% of all purchases so far this year), as Pension Funds grow, Property Fund Managers become increasingly active and REIT’s also start to spread their wings.  But North America (accounting for 10% of all purchases) is also opening up as a source of funds (despite the high AU$), with new entrants from the USA and Canada now increasingly active.  Add to that the occasional foray by European-based funds and private investors, along with investors coming from South Africa and it seems the whole world is now chasing Australian real estate.
And why wouldn’t you?  We may think we have our problems with floods, cyclones, a looming carbon tax, rising cost of living and an economy too reliant on the mining sector, but compared to the rest of the world, we’re in very good shape and have a very bright outlook.
Despite a patchy recovery, forecasts still point to an improvement in economic growth over the next twelve months and this will underpin the recovery in the commercial property markets as well.  Add to this the famous transparency and ease of doing property business in Australia and the choice to look downunder is obvious.
But the most interesting part of this trend may be only just emerging.  Prices are starting to rise on the back of all this foreign investment.  Yields remain attractively high in Australia relative to other countries.  The traditional theory of the high cost of local debt limiting any scope for yield compression is going out the window as foreigners use mostly equity.  The increasing number of foreign players, coupled with the locals, is starting to put some much-needed tension back into the marketplace and this is resulting in prices being bid up for the most sought-after assets.  This must ultimately flow through to local valuations.
Yes, it may have been a stressful week in the stockmarket.  But by further re-inforcing foreign interest in the Australian commercial property markets, it may have also been an important turning point in restoring capital values.
Kevin Stanley is executive director of global research and consulting for the Asia Pacific region at <a target="_blank" title="CBRE" href="https://www.cbre.com.au/EN/">CBRE</a>.
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kstanley-sW5KFjskLN

Commercial property a safe haven in volatile share market

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Bartinon, the seven-bedroom waterside mansion in Sorrento, could enjoy the prospect of the rising price tide on Queensland’s Coast Coast.
It has been sitting on the market since last July, when the highest bid of $7.25 million offered at auction fell short of the $8 million paid in April 2009.
Transport tycoon Douglas Kefford bought it from Cameron Davis, from the Samtay Group, and his wife, Lynette.
Prestige prices on the Gold Coast got a fillip last weekend with a <a target="_blank" title="Paradise Waters sale" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/paradise-waters-auction-could-put-wind-in-luxury-market-sales/2011081551156">$6.725 million riverfront sale at Paradise Waters</a>, the highest sale for three years.
The seven-bedroom early 1980s house was built by tycoon Sir Justin Hickey and his wife, Lady (Barbara) Hickey.
The name of the one-hectare Riviera estate incorporates the initials of their five children.
Hickey, the Marrickville-born insurance magnate who started his career cutting lawns, moved to the 250-squares house in the early 1980s after selling his Emerstan Drive, Castle Cove, house to businessman Phil Cave.
With 85 metres of frontage, it is one of the largest residential blocks on the Nerang River on the coast.
Davis paid $6,665,000 in 2006 to buy it from former Fraser Island tourism operators Sidney Melksham and Angela Burger.
The 6,500-square-metre riverfront Sorrento property previously sold for $4.25 million in 2001 when offloaded by Indonesian industrialist Alimin Soenario.
Soenario had set a $3,125,000 record in 1994 when he bought it on its then 9,000 square metres.
Kefford, who has spent only four or five weeks a year at the house on Marseille Court, has it listed through Ray White agent Michael Kollosch.
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Gold Coast $9 million offering might benefit from Nerang River rising tide

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What’s been the best store of wealth over the last decade? It’s a question I will seek to quickly address today. 
In order to do so, I have taken all the major asset class information over the period January 2001 through to July 2011. This spans a number of economic and financial market booms and busts. 
Australian house prices had a stellar run through to end 2003, but then went nowhere for a couple of years. They recovered at a sprightly clip over 2006 and 2007 yet came to a grinding halt in 2008. A combination of 9.6% mortgage rates and the GFC conspired to push national prices down about 2.6% over the 2008 calendar year. 
In 2009 and 2010 we saw the Aussie housing market shake off these headwinds. Indeed, the RBA’s reduction in mortgage rates to around 5% supplied ample momentum. 
But as is the case with all good things, they tend not to last. And the RBA has prudently started to apply the interest rate brakes as inflation pressures have reared their ugly head. The coincidence of two de facto rate hikes in November last year with the community presumption that many more are to come has seen prices cool 2% year-on-year. 
The Australian share market had a slow start to the 2000s, and even after incorporating the benefit of dividends fell by 8% in 2001, and a much more painful 15% in 2003. 
Following this nadir, Aussie shares rebounded very vigorously indeed through to their late 2007 peak. As most now know, Australian and global shares (including dividends) suffered a catastrophic 40% to 50% slide during the GFC and still remain more than 20% below that peak. 
In the chart and table that follow (click to enlarge) I compare Aussie housing, Aussie shares, government bonds, and cash, over the past 11 years. The specific data I have used include the ASX All Ordinaries Accumulation Index (which reinvests dividends), the RP Data-Ri<personname>sma</personname>rk Combined Capital Cities Index plus 50% (or half) of the RP Data-Ri<personname>sma</personname>rk hedonically-estimated gross rents (to control for around 2% pa worth of property costs), the total returns realised by 10-year Australian government bonds, and the total returns delivered by 90-day bank bills.
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/joyeaugust181.gif"><img src="/images/stories/joyeaugust181thumb.gif"></a>
The chart suggests that a national portfolio of housing has comprehensively outperformed all other investment categories over this tumultuous period. What is also fascinating is that AAA-rated Australian government bonds have delivered almost the same returns as Australian shares (plus dividends) with vastly lower risk. 
On the question of risk, the table below shows us that there have been five months over the last 11 years where Aussie shares have fallen in value by more than 5% (the worst being a stunning 14% loss). None of the other asset classes have had a single monthly loss of five per cent plus. 
This just hammers home the point that if you get your market-timing wrong with shares, you could be underwater on your investment for many years. Think, for example, of all the poor folks who piled into Aussie shares around the market apogee in 2007 (see the peak of the red line in the chart above).
 
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/joyeaugust182large.gif"><img src="/images/stories/joyeaugust182.gif"></a>
Christopher Joye is a leading financial economist and works with <a href="https://www.rismark.com.au/" title="Rismark International" target="_blank">Rismark International</a>. Rismark and RP Data provide house price analytics products, and solutions that enable investors to go long and/or short the housing market. The above article is not investment advice.
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chrisjoye-JYhJsTrNRC

Aussie housing market outperforms shares, with significantly less risk

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Melbourne shopping centre the Jam Factory is to get a $16 million refurbishment due for completion by June 2012.
The largest renovation in the Jam Factory’s 32-year retail history will be the rollout of the first Australian store for global fashion giant Topshop at the Chapel Street, South Yarra site.
Topshop is a leading UK-based high street retailer, with over 750 stores worldwide.
Its 1,600-square-metre concept store will house both the Topshop and Topman brands, and is expected to open for trade prior to Christmas 2011.
“The revamp is a major milestone in our longer term redevelopment plans,” Challenger Diversified Property Group fund manager Trevor Hardie says.
He says many existing Jam Factory retailers are expected to introduce new concept store format to complement the extensive renovation.
Target has also chosen the Jam Factory for its late August launch of Urban by Target – an inner-city compact concept store carrying Target’s core range of apparel and soft home wares.
Existing Jam Factory retailers are expected to introduce new concept store format to complement the extensive renovation
Current tenants include Nando’s, CUE, Village Cinemas, Boost, Steve Madden and TGI Friday’s.
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