A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada Australia doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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EXPERT OBSERVERS
Car parking occupies a large proportion of urban areas, and cities cannot keep sacrificing so much space to meet demand. 
While car parking was a non-negotiable amenity for baby boomers, it is an eyesore to millennials and the up-and-coming iGen. Newer generations want more city and <a href="https://usa.streetsblog.org/2018/11/13/millennials-unhappily-stuck-in-their-parents-transportation-system/" target="_blank">fewer cars</a>. Globally, scrapping car parking is the latest trend in urban planning.
Between 2010 and 2015, Philadelphia <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2016/sep/27/cities-eliminating-car-parks-parking" target="_blank">removed 3,000 off-street parking spaces</a> from its city centre. Copenhagen is <a href="https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2011/07/110713-cutting-down-on-city-parking/" target="_blank">following the same path</a>. Zurich has implemented a <a href="https://www.emeraldinsight.com/doi/abs/10.1108/S2044-994120140000005017" target="_blank">city-wide cap to llimit parking spaces</a> to 1990s levels.
Amsterdam has announced it will remove parking spaces at a rate of 1,500 a year. The city’s 2025 goal is to eliminate <a href="https://www.citylab.com/transportation/2019/03/amsterdam-cars-parking-spaces-bike-lanes-trees-green-left/586108/" target="_blank">more than 11,000 parking spaces</a> from its streets to make space for cycling.
San Francisco and New York have adopted the <a href="https://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2011/07/110713-cutting-down-on-city-parking/" target="_blank">concept of “parklets”</a>. These are mini parks or outdoor café seating areas that temporarily replace a few parking spots during low-demand periods.
The theory is that as the amount of parking decreases, the appeal of driving gives way to more environmentally friendly transport modes such as walking, cycling, ride-hailing, car pooling and public transport.
Some <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965856408000657" target="_blank">evidence</a> suggests reducing or capping parking pays off. In cities that have implemented these measures, driving has declined and public transport use has increased.
<h2>What’s happening in Australia?</h2>
Among the largest Australian cities, Brisbane seems to be going backwards. The Courier Mail recently published a <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.couriermail.com.au%2Fquestnews%2Fsoutheast%2Fparked-out-suburban-streets-become-oneway-thoroughfares%2Fnews-story%2Fb83f4255072633bb67e57805abbaf9ad%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3wsfXqhstnSA1rG0tceAFCcM2F-Ggn6XO8KUaHEpmG8wGrzwP0d1u7dsc&amp;h=AT0dQKoaMy4zmmWh8oipmADa_mZcUKwQFAu948C-diA36GnT1oH9BGP6v3EqIwSXYgz6QkmIojmp-bIsqdbZ7NWPA5BOehuRCVg_NWUmulMg9fXHs9k-3Af5-kqs9iRGeFJPggJ9LZBI-TfZZyMb-fjTCv-CFV-SVoZ-_ZKhVHoUc5xBIeuhi2kiQPCYYxXk9LY8Vg1wPDAzwHMltpJCfgVxq4ZYyqrVaS0-5Lccw-3iec8nK9plYhw84O87BBdq2gz2sKY0hEkl_xp-U4yuX5MW516YTEavIpiGEDcy_sTZSfCkpTwG5I5UbTYegNSjOx1dm4dwx6PRNWy4biy_M5iyqD1TtyyDAi77A_oaVhr4Kixhoaf1ENp4V-ievUGwXgfmev9xbBsWG0F0SM0ZjkA9jvX50VHiQLh0UoSVz-BlJnjRaM1aox2GOHcxufDSaiOOmwTUmksyp0fXdtuRUO9QqUoSbw2-jvEBOkzSeMJsVHqCw7GIJjHszjaOMJH-ITgVHSdxo4iG_Ixk6i_ysbJwmFvUuubR3Pz406YIX6zGpIJSn7tGhH2q9INg6Jh0B06UY1TNqRlE2Pgs1U9q3Mi1Zj2vje9utYldmc58fyYdfKXB2TEw2u_iYcYm6XvzePm20_BWIg" target="_blank">story</a> stating that:
Suburban streets in two Brisbane suburbs have become all-day car parks as the new residents of apartments are forced to resort to on-street parking.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/285252/original/file-20190723-91864-fu73f8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""> Some on-street parking in Brisbane suburbs is occupied much of the day. Neil Sipe, Author provided
In response to such sentiments, <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/a-car-park-for-every-bedroom-council-proposes-new-apartment-plan-20190604-p51ucx" target="_blank">Brisbane City Council proposes</a> to increase the number of parking spaces required for future apartment buildings across the middle and outer suburbs. Parking increases have been framed as adding to the quality of life and safety of Brisbane suburbs.
Unfortunately, Brisbane does not track the existing supply of residential parking. This lack of clarity has created an imbalance of parking supply and provides opportunities for a sharing economy of parking. Operators such as <a href="https://www.parkhound.com.au/" target="_blank">Parkhound</a> and <a href="https://kerb.works/australia/brisbane" target="_blank">KERB</a> enable residents to lease their unused parking while their neighbours exhaust the public supply of on-street parking.
Meanwhile, Sydney has officially <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/environment/climate-change/city-of-sydney-officially-declares-climate-emergency-20190625-p520zd" target="_blank">declared a “climate emergency”</a>, following the lead of global cities including <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/05/nyregion/climate-emergency-nyc" target="_blank">New York</a>, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2018/dec/11/london-mayor-sadiq-khan-city-climate-emergency" target="_blank">London</a> (and then <a href="https://theconversation.com/uk-becomes-first-country-to-declare-a-climate-emergency-116428" target="_blank">all of the UK</a>), <a href="https://www.thefifthestate.com.au/urbanism/climate-change-news/auckland-latest-council-to-declare-climate-emergency/" target="_blank">Auckland</a> and <a href="https://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/climate-emergency-response.aspx" target="_blank">Vancouver</a> (followed by <a href="https://theconversation.com/cognitive-dissonance-canada-declares-a-national-climate-emergency-and-approves-a-pipeline-119151" target="_blank">Canada</a>). While applauded by environmentalists, this declaration does not come with a firm commitment to reduce driving or parking.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/285052/original/file-20190722-116562-83xpwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/285052/original/file-20190722-116562-83xpwy.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a> Many city residents believe they have a right to street parking outside their homes. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/north-melbourne-vicaustraliadec-21st-2018-family-1263505273?src=c8Yv8d-CiY1V9m2qJKw17g-1-18&amp;studio=1" target="_blank">Shuang Li/Shutterstock</a>
Similarly, in Melbourne, outside the CBD – where there are <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/news-and-media/Pages/Ten-year-transport-plan-to-create-more-space-for-people.aspx" target="_blank">plans to reduce parking</a> – there is plenty of free, and largely unmanaged, on-street parking. Residents typically <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14649357.2014.929727" target="_blank">believe they are entitled</a> to this parking space.
Clearly, Australian cities are stuck in the old-fashioned “predict and provide” model of parking supply. This <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0965856499000075" target="_blank">model</a> relies on the idea that there will always be enough parking if every site provides spaces for all residents, staff, customers and visitors during peak demand periods.
While this approach might have been suitable in the postwar period, it is unworkable for today’s growing, congested and warming cities. The challenge for planners is how to accommodate increasing numbers of urban residents within a reasonable distance from work and amenities. Cities are running out of space for cars – be they moving or parked.
Is there a better way?
Certainly. Some cities have begun to set <a href="https://qz.com/1037799/mexico-city-got-rid-of-minimum-parking-requirements-and-other-cities-should-too/" target="_blank">maximum parking standards</a>. In other words, the cities put an upper limit on how many car parks can be provided for a given project. Sometimes these complement minimum parking requirements; in other cases the <a href="https://www.ptcconsultants.co/minimum-parking-requirements-rio/" target="_blank">latter are eliminated</a>.
Selling parking spaces separately from housing units, referred to as “<a href="http://www.thegreatermarin.org/blog/2015/8/8/unbundling-parking-isnt-simple-but-its-worth-it" target="_blank">unbundling</a>”, is another policy that’s becoming popular. It ensures the true cost of car storage is transparent rather than hidden. And it means car-free or one-car households don’t have to pay for parking they don’t need.
Some developers are providing <a href="https://www.afr.com/real-estate/residential/how-the-rise-of-car-sharing-could-slash-property-prices-20190524-p51qog" target="_blank">car-sharing spaces</a> in new construction, instead of individual car parks.
Some employers offer a parking “<a href="https://www.greaterauckland.org.nz/2017/08/07/cashout-parking-great-little-election-policy/" target="_blank">cash out” option</a> – employees receive a payment in lieu of a parking space. Those employers that continue to offer parking charge fees daily rather than monthly to avoid the “<a href="https://www.behavioraleconomics.com/resources/mini-encyclopedia-of-be/sunk-cost-fallacy/" target="_blank">sunk cost fallacy</a>” – having paid for parking, employees want to get their money’s worth.
Other useful (but hardly new) planning concepts include the “<a href="https://theconversation.com/the-30-minute-city-how-do-we-put-the-political-rhetoric-into-practice-56136" target="_blank">30-minute city</a>” and “<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2543000918300039" target="_blank">transit-oriented development</a>”. These approaches help reduce the need for driving and parking by concentrating people and land uses around public transport stops and corridors.
Will reducing spaces lead to parking shortages?
People are often concerned that if parking is reduced or capped, this will create a parking shortage. This can be avoided if parking is treated as a key component of the urban transport system and managed in coordination with other elements.
Australian cities need to prepare comprehensive parking strategies at the metropolitan level. These strategies must be integrated with general transport and land use plans. Unfortunately, this is often difficult to achieve because state governments are typically responsible for planning and building the transport system while local governments are responsible for parking.
The impacts of parking reductions on urban citizens need to be offset by providing a higher quality and quantity of public and active transport. This requires substantial investments in public and active transport.
Finally, no parking should be free. Revenues from parking fees should be returned to local communities in the form of improved public amenities.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/118393/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/neil-sipe-346144" target="_blank">Neil Sipe</a>, Professor of Urban and Regional Planning, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805" target="_blank">The University of Queensland</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/anthony-kimpton-326939" target="_blank">Anthony Kimpton</a>, Postdoctoral research fellow, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805" target="_blank">The University of Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/dorina-pojani-413644" target="_blank">Dorina Pojani</a>, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805" target="_blank">The University of Queensland</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/what-can-our-cities-do-about-sprawl-congestion-and-pollution-tip-scrap-car-parking-118393" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

What can our cities do about sprawl, congestion and pollution? Tip: scrap car parking

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A trophy fast food asset at Bondi Junction has been listed for sale for the first time.
It's been the home of Guzman y Gomez since 2006. It was the Mexican fast food giant's second store to ever open in Australia.
Before that it was occupied by Giorgio's Fine Foods.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-bondi+junction-503270142" target="_blank">1a Bronte Road</a> has a secure income of $189,199 per annum plus GST, with a fixed four percent annual rent increase.
The two storey freehold investment is zoned B3 Commercial.
Cushman &amp; Wakefield agents Anthony Bray and Yosh Mendis have an August 22 auction.
There will be remote bidding facilities in Brisbane and Melbourne.
The last sale on the small section of Bronte Road opposite Westfield was in 2003 when 3A-5 Bronte Road, the old Bondi Junction Medial Centre, sold for $8.9 million.
It is currently leased to Suncorp.
 
 
 
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Bondi Junction fast food trophy asset listed for the first time

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The Melbourne based chippies and half brothers, Tim, 32, and Mat, 27, (pictured above) thought they had the upper hand in the 2019 series of House Rules.
But they failed losing just by two points to Victorian dance teachers Pete, 32, and Courtney, 31. The judge Laurence Llewelyn Bowen awarded them a 10 for their final renovation, taking Pete and Courtney to a score of 29/30 from the judges while Melbourne brothers Tim and Mat received 27 points. 
Three teams battled it out in the House Rules 2019 Grand Final challenge after facing off in a seven day luxury loft challenge.
South Australia’s Lisa and Andy finished in third spot on 26 points.
From day one the chippies duo reckoned they have the requisite "background in carpentry and building, along with being able to visualise things before they are put together".
They had Tim’s family home, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-thornbury-128700662" target="_blank">a 1950s weatherboard cottage in Thornbury</a> (pictured below) that’s never been seriously renovated, get the makeover.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/thorn.jpg" alt="">
It cost $972,000 last July, having been held in the same family for over 50 years.
The charming double-fronted home, marketed by Nelson Alexander as having a well-maintained interior, comprises an entry foyer, three large bedrooms, central living room leading through to an updated kitchen and meals area.
There's a separate laundry, store room and verandah that overlooks a large rear yard offering plenty of scope and opportunity to expand on the 352 square metre block.
It had been listed with a $900,000 to $990,000 price guide.
This year, the six teams on House Rules weren't just renovating, but required to innovate.
The six teams renovated and styling each other's homes, with the aim of taking out the top prize of $250,000 in the seventh series of the reality renovation show hosted by Joanna Griggs.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/lisa-andy.jpg" alt=""> 
Lisa and Andy 
SA couple Lisa and Andy had been together for 11 years before they got hitched. 
Newlyweds, Lisa, 30, and Andy, 32 have previously renovated a home. The fireman and flight attendant live in Adelaide.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/mikaela-eliza.jpg" alt="">
Mikaela and Eliza
Not so WA renovation rookies, Mikaela, 24, and Eliza, 21, the surfie sisters who have both been ranked among the top 100 female surfers in the world. Their family home is in the Margaret River region.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/pete-courtney%201.jpg" alt="">
Pete and Courtney 
Victorian dance teachers Pete, 32, and Courtney, 31, come with one of the biggest houses the show has ever seen. 
The pair, who live in a huge brown-brick '80s mega-mansion, are no strangers to renovations, having once flipped a three-bedroom apartment in two weeks. They live in the foothills of Victoria’s Dandenong Ranges at Ferntree Gully.
During the finale the Melbourne parents revealed their baby plans.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/shayn-carly%201.jpg" alt="">
Shayn and Carly
Sunshine Coast couple Shayn, 33 and Carly, 31 says their family is fast outgrowing the house. 
Civil engineer Shayn, who has worked as a chippie and construction supervisor, and wife Carly actually call it their three-bedroom double-brick "prison".
"It's a small rectangular box with bars on the windows, security screens all over the place and not much light," Shayn says.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/26/katie-alex%201.jpg" alt="">
Katie and Alex
The married NSW-based couple Katie and Alex have a little cottage built in the 1880s in NSW’s Southern Tablelands having moved there from the ACT. 
The stay-at-home mum, and midwife, Katie, 29, and Federal Police officer Alex, 32, desire a working kitchen and a master bedroom that doesn't leak at their Gundaroo home.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Melbourne chippies Tim and Mat end up the House Rules 2019 runners up

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In terms of the best growth suburbs to invest in Melbourne, valuer John Costanzo believes there is still plenty of value to be had in Ringwood and Croydon, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"While the property market started 2019 on a positive note with more interest from buyers, auction clearance rates rising and banks chasing more business, another hurdle has been put in our way," the valuation firm said. 
"While the current slump in property values resembles those in 2008 during the global financial crisis, this time around, our economy is sound with interest rates at an all-time low." 
A four bedroom house positioned within a highly coveted cul-de-sac in Ringwood with views of Dandenong Ranges has recently been sold for $796,000.
Nestled on a 559 square metre allotment, the brick house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-ringwood-129317002" target="_blank"> 4 Gibson Court</a> (pictured below) comprises master with built-children's playroom, three additional bedrooms, living and dining room with views, and sleek stone kitchen.
It has easy access to schools, shops and public transport. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/ringwood%20.jpg" alt="">
Another pick is Wantirna, according to the HTW report. 
"While Wantirna South’s median entered the $1 million club in 2018, its sister suburb Wantirna is inevitably next in line," the valuation firm commented. 
With a median house price of $960,600, it offers excellent transport links, schools and proximity to Westfield Knox Shopping Centre, which will undergo a long- awaited major redevelopment from November 2019.
A current listing is a three bedroom single level house priced between $880,000 to $960,000.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-wantirna-131232658" target="_blank">2 Fortescue Court, Wantirna</a> (pictured below), the house comes with master bedroom, two additional robed bedrooms, living and dining spaced with porcelain tiles, smart kitchen and family area. 
Additional features include ducted heating, split-system heating/cooling, salt-chlorinated in-ground pool with deck surround and double garage.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/wantirna%20.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/27/east%20mel.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/east%20mel.jpg" alt=""> 
"Investors should start thinking about suburbs where infrastructure upgrades, particularly with links to transport, could put them at the top of the next boom.
"Buyers are still being cautious and with tighter lending conditions still in place, it’s likely the eastern Melbourne market will tread water in the latter half of 2019, although this will vary depending on local market conditions and demand. Only time will tell."
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Ringwood, Croydon and Wantirna - best suburbs to invest in Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Sutherland and Sydney inner south-west regions continued to witness median house prices declines, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report.  
According to Corelogic, Sydney has six of the 10 sub-regions which have shown the largest decline in dwelling values in the year to April.
Two of those are in Sydney’s south with the Sutherland and inner south-west (St George and Bankstown) areas showing 12.2% and 14.9% decline in dwelling values in the 12 months to April.
The Bass Hill/Georges Hall (-19.4%), Panania/ Milperra/Picnic Point (-18.9%) and Revesby (-18.5%) regions appear to have experienced the biggest declines during this period, according to CoreLogic data.
These suburbs continued to experience declines in their median house prices during the first quarter of 2019 of between 1.2% (Picnic Point) and 5.6% (Revesby), with only Milperra bucking the trend with a slight 0.5% increase in its median house price (source: realestate.com.au).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/southern%20syd.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/southern%20syd.jpg" alt="">
In the Sutherland Shire, Miranda/Yowie Bay has been listed as one of the poorer performing regions in Sydney with a median drop of 17.8% in the 12 months to April.
"Miranda has had a recent increase of units flooding the market with a few large unit developments reaching completion this quarter," the HTW report noted. 
Real estate agents have noted that this has also affected the rental market with a larger number of units all available for rent at the same time.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/miranda%20.jpg" alt="">
A new two bedroom apartment situated in the heart of Miranda has been listed for lease from $550 per week. 
The apartment at 10 Pinnacle Street (pictured above) comes with open plan living, two oversized bedrooms, gourmet kitchen and private balconies with district views.
Other features include ducted air conditioning, oversized bathrooms, and single allocated car spaces plus storage cafe.  
"Not all suburbs and property types are seeing a decline however," the HTW report said. 
"The Cronulla housing market has remained stable for the March quarter at $2.25 million."
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/cronulla%201.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom Cronulla house with a 15 metre frontage was sold for $2.1 million in March.
Occupying a 645 square metre level parcel, the single level home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-cronulla-130426482" target="_blank">13 Kirkwood Road</a> (pictured above) comprises three bedrooms, optional 4th bedroom or study, separate lounge and dining rooms, and covered timer deck overlooking the yard. 
It's close to an array of local amenities including schools, golf courses, shops and transport, and just minutes away Wanda Beach. 
The Cronulla unit market however has dropped from a median price of $900,000 in December 2019 to $875,000 in March 2019, according to realestate.com.au.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/cronulla%202.jpg" alt="">
A current listing is a two bedroom beachside apartment priced at $749,000.
Set within a small complex, the apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-cronulla-131178666" target="_blank">6/20 Ewos Parade </a>(pictured above) comprises two bedrooms, kitchen with breakfast bar, combined living and dining room, and north facing balcony. 
It is close to local shops, parks and transport.
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Sutherland housing values decline sharply: HTW residential

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Prices have declined for both the inner and outer north of Melbourne, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"In our February edition of the Month in Review, we stated that inner northern suburbs would be the hardest hit with declining property prices whereas the outer north would plateau," the valuation firm said. 
Economists agreed, stating that property prices for the north- east and north-west were set to decline (as shown below).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/27/s%20wright%202019.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/s%20wright%202019.jpg" alt="">
The report notes that the outer northern suburbs of Craigieburn, Mickleham and Kalkallo reached their peak property prices in early to mid-2018 and have slowly been declining ever since.
Craigieburn’s urban sprawl previously known as providing a good return on investment for off the plan purchase of land is now being reversed.
A 448 square metre block of land back in early 2018 would be sold for $400,000 however now in mid- 2019 the same product would sell for $340,000 to $350,000.
"Purchasing this land off the plan in 2016 and selling in 2018 would provide a solid $70,000 to $100,000 capital gain, whereas purchasing more recently in late 2017 to early 2018, the land would be lucky to break even and is expected to sell at a loss," the report said. 
"The oversupply of land releases alongside the lack of land purchases due to tightened lending criteria has been the main charge behind the drop in land value."
Melbourne’s inner northern suburbs, for example Carlton, Collingwood, Brunswick and Northcote, have also been hit hard by declining property prices.
An example was a three bedroom house located in the heart of Brunswick which has recently been sold for $920,000.
Situated<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-brunswick-129727078" target="_blank"> 5 Hanover Street</a> (pictured below), it comprises three bedrooms, kitchen, separate lounge area, and large pergola area. 
It was sold at $985,000 in 2016. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/brunswick%20.jpg" alt="">
Median prices have fallen $30,000 to $50,000 for these suburbs since the start of 2019 and are projected to decline further according to REIV. 
Properties holding their prices are A grade, sizeable family oriented homes that have a prime position, superior floor plans and are in prime or renovated condition.
Secondary properties that do not have these qualities are struggling to sell and are seeing extended time on the market compared to 2018.
"There is an evident stock decrease for these suburbs which is contributing to the price decline," the valuation firm said. 
In the week of 23 March 2019, there were 674 auctions listed compared to 1,783 for the same week in 2018, according to Digital Finance Analytics data.
With stock levels being low and bank lending criteria tightened, home owners are choosing to stay in their current dwellings and choosing to renovate rather than risk attempting to upgrade to a superior property for which they may not get their finance approved by the bank.
According to the HTW report, Pascoe Vale has had the most surprising turn since the start of 2019.
"For a market that has been developer driven for the past two years, it now has completely reversed," it said. 
"Multiple permits granted for three-to-six townhouse developments are unable to proceed as developers struggle for finance."
A prime example is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-pascoe+vale-129695610" target="_blank"> 40 Austin Crescent, Pascoe Vale</a> (pictured below). 
Comprising a four-townhouse development with approved permits, it has been on the market for 203 days with little interest due to the inherent risk of finance availability.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/pascoe%20vale.jpg" alt="">
"Pascoe Vale has been development shy this year and if lenders do not reduce their strict criteria, townhouse developments in Pascoe Vale may be very limited going forward."
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Northern Melbourne property prices remain in decline: HTW residential 

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The NSW Central Coast's transition to a slower market has gone well, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that as with any region with a diverse property range, some suburbs have felt the pressure of price adjustment more than others.
The data coming through is suggesting that the suburbs at the southern end of the region have seen price falls more than others.
This includes the suburbs of Umina Beach and Woy Woy where values seem to have fallen by around 10 to 15%.
This however, is on the back end of higher than average value increases compared to most other parts of the region.
A current listing in Umina Beach is a three bedroom townhouse priced at $775,000.
The townhouse at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-nsw-umina+beach-131203026" target="_blank"> 4/188 West Street</a> (pictured below) features three bedrooms, lounge and dining area, home office area, galley-style kitchen and low maintenance landscaped gardens. 
It's within walking distance to Woolworths Shopping Centre, ALDI Supermarket, Coles Supermarket, and the McDonalds.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/25/umina%20beach.jpg" alt="">
"As we near the half way point of 2019, units within the Gosford CBD are also the subject of conversation" the valuation firm said. 
"We are hearing (and seeing) a loss in confidence in this market and as settlements on new developments are being called, the evidence suggests a close eye and extra caution needs to be observed by buyers before committing.
"We are stopping short (just) of saying we are in an oversupply situation right now as we believe that the plans for the expansion of both the public and private hospitals in Gosford will ease this situation,"
A three bedroom apartment positioned on the fringe of the Gosford CBD has recently been sold at a reduced priced of $425,000.
Set in a secure complex, the apartment at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-gosford-130415598" target="_blank"> 354/80 John Whiteway Drive</a> (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, open plan living area, well-appointed kitchen and two car spaces. 
It is close to train station, shopping centres, schools and Gosford waterfront.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/25/gosford%20.jpg" alt="">
Towards the northern end of the region, the market has definitely slowed with some price corrections noted in newer and older suburbs.
According to the HTW report, this hasn’t been much of a drop in values overall, but the evidence suggests that it is happening.
The northern end of the region is generally more price dependent with a higher reliance on continuity of employment and stablisation of home owners.
Vendor expectations have been a little slower to adapt to the changing market with real estate agents indicating that more time is being spent on the current values.
"This is then affecting those buyers out there and the meeting of minds," the valuation firm said.
"Buyers and their ability to deal are further impacted by changes in lending policies which in a nutshell is making borrowing harder.
"But that said, the property market appears to have swung in favour of buyers with more choices available.
"We are certainly in for an interesting second half of 2019 and if the signs are being read correctly, then we should expect the market to slow further.
"These signs include a higher level of valuation assessments being queried by lenders and mortgage brokers, slightly higher levels of owners opting for renovations and extensions rather than selling and real estate agents having to work harder to get their deals across the line.
"The property market work cycle is in the correction phase after solid increases in property prices throughout the past few years.
"The higher end of the market range seems to be tracking reasonably well at this stage and we are seeing little change to volumes of transactions and values seem to be less affected." 
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Southern Central Coast suburbs prices falling: HTW residential 

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Hobart and Tasmania are national leaders on price growth – although analysis of the latest sales activity data suggests the market has passed its peak after two years of strong growth.
In terms of annual price growth, Tasmania remains the undisputed champion of Australia. Nine out of ten locations across the state have increased their median prices in the past year – and many of them have recorded double-digit growth.
Hotspotting has analysed house price data for 76 suburbs and towns in Tasmania: 69 of them (91%) have recorded growth in their median house prices in the past year. Of the 69 house markets with price growth, 56 have increased by more than 5%, including 35 which have risen 10% or more.
Only 9% of Tasmanian house markets have experienced decreases in median prices – and only one location has dropped by more than 5%.
In the Hobart metropolitan area, the suburbs of Austins Ferry, Chigwell, Gagebrok and Risdon Vale have all increased between 20% and 25% in the past 12 months.
In Launceston, price uplift has been led by East Launceston (17%), Newnham (12%), South Launceston (16%), Summerhill (12%) and West Launceston (12%). 
In other parts of regional Tasmania, Scottsdale and Upper Burnie have both recorded 15% rises in their median house prices.
There are also examples of exceptional growth in unit markets, where 81% of locations have rising prices.
Growth markets for apartments in Hobart include Bellerive (16%), Claremont (19%), Glenorchy (16%), New Town (18%) and West Moonah (20%) – but the highly-rated suburb of Lindisfarne is the standout, with its median apartment price rising 32% to $445,000, based on 45 sales in the past 12 months.
In Launceston, there have been 25-26% rises in median unit prices in Newnham and Prospect Vale.
Strong though those results are, they are a little less spectacular than our findings three months ago. In that previous report we said: “In Hobart, we can find no suburbs with falling prices and none with minor growth. All have increased by more than 5% in the past 12 months – and 80% of them are up at least 10%. A key feature is most have recorded rises in the latest quarter, which indicates prices are still growing.”
So the current data represents a strong result, indeed the strongest anywhere in Australia, but not as strong as three months ago. This confirms our overall conclusion that markets in Hobart and Tasmania have passed the peak in their cycles and are gradually winding down.
The strongest evidence of this comes from our analysis of quarterly sales activity. We have classified 16 locations as rising markets, the lowest number in any quarter since late in 2016. 
The rise of markets in Hobart, Launceston and other parts of Tasmania began with a steady uplift in sales activity early in 2017 and we have seen strong sales activity since then, leading to nation-leading price growth.
But now sales volumes are subsiding and the number of plateau markets across the state is the highest since we began our quarterly surveys five years ago. Indeed, the number of plateau markets in Tasmania, quarter-by-quarter in the past two years, has been 17, 30, 39, 39, 40, 43, 46 and 54 – a clear pattern showing the increase in the number of locations where sales activity has passed its peak.
There are still suburbs with growth markets (measured by sales volumes) in both Hobart and Launceston. In the Hobart metropolitan area, suburbs that still have growth momentum include Berriedale, Bridgewater, Rokeby, Sorell, Old Beach, Margate and Howrah.
In Launceston, the suburbs that still have forward momentum include Mowbray, Prospect and Newnham.
Elsewhere in the state, growth markets include Cygnet in the Huon Valley south of Hobart, George Town in the north of the state near Launceston, Longford in the Northern Midlands, and Smithton in the Circular Head LGA in the far north-west.
While all the recent evidence suggests Hobart and Tasmania are gradually winding down from the peak of the cycle, the key question is whether recent positive events at a national level (election result, APRA changes, lower interest rates, tax cuts, etc) will re-ignite the state’s mini-boom.
We’ll know more three months from now.
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Tasmania passes property market peak after two years of growth: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The three cities of Sydney, the Harbour City, the River City and the Parkland City will need a vision to have robust growth over the next 20 to 30 years.
With concerns being expressed across Sydney’s suburbs, that medium density could destroy the character of the detached house suburbs, it would seem that major development should occur inSydney’s three cities.
The Urban Taskforce has developed 20 to 30 year visions for the three cities of the Harbour City, the River City and the Parkland City at the Aerotropolis, to give a futuristic feel for how Sydney’s centres could look from 2040 onwards.
We were asked to produce these visions by the Sunday Telegraph and the Daily Telegraph so that their readers could get a glimpse of the future form of the three cities. 
To develop the visions, the Urban Taskforce has worked with Sydney 3D modelling firm Arterra Interactive, Sydney architects LAVA who provided futuristic building forms, and architects Bates Smart who provided a base form for growth aroundCircular Quay.
The Urban Taskforce supports the Greater Sydney Commission’s approach to the three cities, but we are concerned that there seems to be a very suburban approach to Sydney’s character that is beingpromoted particularly in relation to local character. 
The best way to preserve local character is to ensure that most new development occurs in more urban locations in city centres and around railway stations.
 Soour visions for Sydney’s three cities are deliberately robust with significant height and the incorporation of greenery within the urban cores.
It is good to see that the Lord Mayor of Parramatta, Andrew Wilson, is a supporter of a robust city for Parramatta, with building forms that are not just boxes. And that Sam Sangster, the CEO of the Aerotropolis Authority supports the futuristic vision for the Aerotropolis while expressing some concerns about the heights illustrated.
For the Harbour City, Sydney Lord Mayor, Clover Moore, supports more height but is concernedthat her plans are being held up by the state government.
An essential part of the Urban Taskforce vision for the three cities is that they are connected by fast rail and that they work as a connected economic system. 
Cities around the world are now becoming polycentric networks of economic power, where urban centres with quality jobs, retail and urban livingbecome cosmopolitan hubs for local communities.
Here are futuristic and current views of the three major cities for Sydney.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/22/harbour%201.jpg" alt="">
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<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/22/parkland%201.jpg" alt="">
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/22/parkland%202.jpg" alt="">
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/22/river%201.jpg" alt="">
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/22/river%202.jpg" alt="">
CHRIS JOHNSON is the Urban Taskforce CEO
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

Sydney's three city policy needs a vision for robust growth: Chris Johnson

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There are certainly opportunities in the current 2019 market to pay less than the last price.
But is there really such a thing as buying a bargain when it comes to property? And where are they?
This series of articles looks are specific examples of sale price or asking price falling.
We take a look at where and if possible why this is happening.
We came across this property for consideration.
A waterfront Rosslyn, Queensland villa has been listed for $1.15 million.
This marks a $250,000 reduction on its previous sale price of $1.4 million.
Jared Hooper of Brian Hooper Real Estate is currently marketing the listing.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-rosslyn-104726747" target="_blank">5 Bayside Way</a>, the three bedroom two, bathroom house with its own berth sits on the waters edge.
Set on 273 sqm, the villa is north east facing with harbour and ocean views.
Located 8 kilometres south of Yeppoon, the largest seaside town on the Queensland coastline, the open plan design incorporates cathedral ceilings, tiled flooring (downstairs) and full length glass walls opening on to the deck areas.
Last sold in 2005, the property transacted for $1.4 million.
The home was briefly listed in 2017 and 2018 seeking $1.25 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/22/Rosslyn%202.png" alt="">
<div class="image-wrapper">Property Observer advise that it is up to you to determine if the offering is a truly beneficial bargain.</div>
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Remember buying at the bottom of the cycle is fraught – as you can't really precisely pick the bottom nor know just how long until you see some price growth.
Be aware you could be buying a poor quality property in an area with ongoing issues of oversupply of stock.
The oversupply could be also putting downward pressure on rents.
Other price declines could be because the vendor needs a quick sale or paid way over the top on its last purchase chase.
Property Observer suggests property purchasing really does need to be a very well considered proposition with a long term mindset.
As a part of this series, we've already had a look at properties in <a href="/expert-insights/buying/bargain-property-at-mount-eliza-home-at-2-million-discount">Mount Eliza</a>, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/bargain-property-in-central-geelong-sale-price-dips-after-one-year">Central Geelong</a>, <a href="/expert-insights/buying/bargain-property-in-east-perth-near-new-apartment-makes-150-000-loss">East Perth</a> and <a href="/expert-insights/buying/bargain-property-in-sydney-olympic-park-apartment-listed-at-180-000-value-discount">Sydney Olympic Park</a>.
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