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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Sentinel Property Group has splashed out $103 million on a Brisbane CBD office building - the largest acquisition in its history.
The unlisted real estate investment trust (REIT) bought the building on a net passing yield of 7.85%.
Makerston House at 30 Makerston Street, Brisbane is on an approximately 1,796 square metre site area with about 14,640 square metres of net lettable area over 14 levels.
It is located opposite the Queensland Police Service headquarters and 50 metres from the Brisbane Transit Centre.
The building has a 5 Star NABERS Energy rating and is 100% leased with a 4.63 year weighted average lease expiry (WALE).
The property is leased to the Queensland Government as well as various state government corporate entities.
The building is well positioned within the city, Sentinel Property Group Managing Director Warren Ebert said.
 “This is a fantastic acquisition for Sentinel and is our biggest purchase since the Group started 10 years ago,” Ebert said.
“Makerston House is a tremendous asset that is in the heart of a precinct accommodating the state’s critical legal infrastructure and services, including the Queensland Supreme Court and District Court and the Brisbane Magistrates Court.
“The building is opposite the Queensland Police Headquarters and just 50m from Roma Street Train Station, the only existing CBD railway station that will link to the high capacity Cross River Rail.”
Ebert said Sentinel was excited to make Makerston House the 10th addition to the Sentinel Regional Office Trust.
The Sentinel Regional Office Trust also comprises 11 Argyle St, Newcastle, The CasCom Centre at Casuarina in Darwin, 200 Creek St, Brisbane, 8 Buller St, Port Macquarie, Jacana House and Arnhemica House in Darwin, 139 Grafton St, Cairns, and Central Plaza and River Quays in the Townsville CBD.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sentinel secures Makerston House in Brisbane CBD for $103 million

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New tenants are signing up in Sydney’s Moorebank industrial precinct.
More than 135,000 square metres of space in the precinct has been taken up over the past 12 months, CBRE said.
The group said its industrial and logistics team had represented Goodman, an industrial property developer, in leasing approximately 90,000 square metres in the area.
Briggs &amp; Stratton, an American manufacturing group, signed a five-year lease on a brand-new facility spanning 14,500 square metres at the Oakdale South Industrial Estate.  
Aidacare and Permaform have both relocated from other spaces to the former Briggs &amp; Stratton facility on initial five-year terms, with a NLA of 11,443 square metres.  
Rentals in the Moorebank industrial precinct range from approximately $115 - $130 per square metre per annum, CBRE advised.
The recent uplift in tenant activity in Moorebank was being driven by large scale vacancy becoming available in 2018, CBRE’s Tom Rourke said.
“With the IMEX intermodal set to be operational by the second quarter of this year – creating a direct connection and between Port Botany and MLP via a dedicated freight line – many logistics companies are seeing MLP as a gamechanger in the market,” Rourke said.  
“MLP provides a considerable cost advantage over some other industrial precincts such as Botany and Matraville.
“Furthermore, there is also potential for Moorebank to evolve into a last mile location given the reduced truck congestion on the M5 and completion of WestConnex, which will reduce metro delivery times to bring MLP more in line with more established last mile locations such as Homebush and Chullora.”
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Sydney’s Moorebank industrial market attracting new tenants

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Market activity has generally been subdued within inner Sydney over the past six months, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that prices have continued to decline in all but the bluest of blue chip areas.
"Within the CBD itself, unit prices have been declining since 2017, largely due to continued supply and decreasing investor demand," the valuation firm said. 
Realestate.com.au shows a decline in the median unit sale price for the suburb of Sydney from $950,000 in January 2019 to $925,000 in March 2019, after a peak of $1.1 million in 2017.
The perennially oversupplied Green Square area of Sydney (covering parts of Zetland, Alexandria and Waterloo) has also fared badly.
Its median prices fell from $900,000 in January 2019 to $875,000 in March 2019 alone, after a 2017 peak of $955,000, according to realestate.com.au. 
Furthermore the strong supply pipeline is set to continue throughout the next 18 months, with multiple new developments due for settlement, all at a time when investor demand is decreasing.
Median house prices have also been decreasing since the start of the year with inner suburbs on the western side of the CBD such as Forest Lodge.
Its median house price declined from a median of $1.5 million in January 2019 to $1.39 million at the end of the first quarter of 2019.
Realestate.com.au indicates that the median price there peaked at $1.78 million in 2017.
On the eastern side of the CBD, the diminutions have been less severe, with Paddington decreasing from an overall market cycle peak of $2.34 million at the start of 2019 to $2.27 million in March 2019 according to realestate.com.au.
"The inner city has a multitude of property types and price points," the valuation firm said.
"The price point seeing the most value retention in the current market appears to be affordable one and two-bedroom units within suburbs along the city’s eastern fringe, particularly those more suited to owner-occupiers – those in well finished buildings, boutique or well- regarded complexes, with views and parking being particularly sought after.
According to realestate.com.au, units in Potts Point have remained generally stable in price since the start of 2019, with medians of $785,000 in January 2019 and $778,000 in March 2019.
"There have been some weaker results for two bedroom units in trendy Surry Hills." 
<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/surry%20hills%201%20.jpg" alt="">
For example 507/437 Bourke Street (pictured above), a two-bedroom warehouse conversion sold for $1.6 million in April 2019 after being purchased for $1,655,000 in April 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/2019/6/19/surry%20hills%202.jpg" alt="">
Furthermore, 36/45-49 Holt Street (pictured above), a semi-modern two-bedroom unit within 500 metres walk of Central Station sold for $1,002,000 in March 2019, previously selling for $1.1 million in June 2016.
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Inner Sydney median prices continue to decline: HTW residential

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The Lower North Shore, often a unique market, can fluctuate either way in a hurry, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report noted that last year, as the general property market started to weaken, this region was quite resilient and still saw some very positive results.
"This was especially true in the prestige section of the market with higher value properties outperforming the rest of the market and with a record number of sales," the valuation firm said. 
"Now almost half way through 2019, we take stock of which direction this market is headed.
"The affluent suburb of Mosman, the most well known suburb on the lower north shore, is often the best indicator of where the market currently stands."
The most recent statistical data sourced from realestate.com.au, indicates a median house price for April 2019 of $3,782,500.
A recent sale in Mosman was a renovated full brick Federation house (pictured above).
The three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-mosman-131171338" target="_blank">41 Countess Street </a>was sold for $3.35 million. 
It comprises master bedroom, two additional bedrooms, media or fourth bedroom, open plan living/dining space, kitchen with breakfast bar, and covered alfresco area. 
It's close to Countess Park, city buses, shops, schools and restaurants. 
"Comparing this price to the median from December 2018, indicated at $3.9 million, we see an obvious weakening trend," the valuation firm commented. 
It would appear that this time around, Mosman is following the trend of the general market cycle, according to the HTW report. 
The prestige sector of Mosman, having experienced a booming few years, also seems to have significantly quietened.
Researching the number of transactions that have occurred over $5 million in Mosman so far in 2019, it appears that there have only been three such transactions in the suburb and none over $10 million, according to CoreLogic data.
"This is in contrast to 2018 where we saw a total of 85 sales over $5 million for the year, 34 of those between January and May," the valuation firm said.
"Local selling agents have indicated that there has certainly been a decline in activity over $5 million, however quality properties are still attracting plenty of interest from genuine buyers."
The unit sector of Mosman usually performs very well and in line with the dwelling market.
With all the talk of over-supply in the form of high-density development, Mosman is partly immune from this issue.
There has been limited high density unit development in Mosman, with most new strata properties being targeted at downsizers.
The report suggests this product is more likely to be lower density and higher quality, aimed at those looking for a low maintenance lifestyle.
The most recent statistical data sourced from realestate.com.au indicates a median unit price for April 2019 of $980,000.
<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/mosman%202.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom apartment at Mosman with panoramic harbour and district views was sold for $985,000 in May.
The top floor apartment at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/been%20a%20decline%20in%20activity%20over%20%245%20million,%20however%20quality%20properties%20are%20still%20attracting%20plenty%20of%20interest%20from%20genuine%20buyers.%20The%20unit%20sector%20of%20Mosman%20usually%20performs%20very%20well%20and%20in%20line%20with%20the%20dwelling%20market.%20With%20all%20the%20talk%20of%20over-supply%20in%20the%20form%20of%20high-density%20development,%20Mosman%20is%20partly%20immune%20from%20this%20issue.%20There%20has%20been%20limited%20high%20density%20unit%20development%20in%20Mosman,%20with%20most%20new%20strata%20properties%20being%20targeted%20at%20downsizers.%20This%20product%20is%20more%20likely%20to%20be%20lower%20density%20and%20higher%20quality,%20aimed%20at%20those%20looking%20for%20a%20low%20maintenance%20lifestyle.%20The%20most%20recent%20statistical%20data%20sourced%20from%20realestate.com.au%20indicates%20a%20median%20unit%20price%20for%20April%202019%20of%20%24980,000.%20Comparing%20this%20price%20to%20the%20median%20from%20December%202018,%20indicated%20at%20%241.03%20million,%20we%20again%20see%20a%20weakening%20trend,%20generally%20in%20line%20with%20the%20dwelling%20market%20declines%20being%20experienced%20in%20Mosman.%20The%20second%20half%20of%202019%20will%20be%20extremely%20interesting%20as%20we%20see%20what%20direction%20the%20market%20on%20the%20lower%20north%20shore%20takes." target="_blank">37/170 Spit Road </a>(pictured above) comprises open plan living/dining, two double bedrooms, stone kitchen and sunny balcony.
It's within close proximity to Balmoral Beach and Mosman Village with cafes and shops. 
"Comparing this price to the median from December 2018, indicated at $1.03 million, we again see a weakening trend, generally in line with the dwelling market declines being experienced in Mosman," it said.
"The second half of 2019 will be extremely interesting as we see what direction the market on the lower north shore takes." 
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Mosman market quietens as Lower North Shore values weaken: HTW residential 

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The City of Sydney has sold Stockton House in Darlinghurst for around $7 million. 
Miron Solomons, Matt Pontey and Nick Lumley of Colliers sold the property at 73-75 William Street in Darlinghurst, close to Hyde Park on the city fringe.
The three level, 908 square metre building is currently unoccupied, presenting an attractive opportunity to reposition the building and to take advantage of the exceptional position, the agents said. 
“The campaign attracted significant and strong interest with over 80 inspections of the property from a range of developers, investors and owner occupiers both onshore and off,” said Miron Solomons, National Director, Investment Services at Colliers International.  
“Ultimately, the price and unconditional terms proposed by the successful candidate were acceptable to the City of Sydney and has delivered an exceptionally strong result for the City and future of William Street.”  
The sale of Stockton House has delivered a timely outcome for the City as the city fringe commercial office market continues to experience some of the strongest trading conditions with vacancy rates some of the lowest experienced in years, Matt Pontey, Manager at Colliers International said.
“The outcome and candidate that has been successful, will deliver a beautifully appointed commercial asset to the city fringe that will present a unique offering to the leasing market,” said Pontey. 
“This building is a complete blank canvas and a value-add proposition which explains the high interest in this well-located, quality asset.
“There is strong demand for commercial property in the city fringe, evidenced by the auction of Watters Gallery which we sold at auction two months ago for $5.5 million.”
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City of Sydney sells unoccupied Stockton House, Darlinghurst for $7 million 

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Moelis has bought 54 apartments in Vision, South Village at Kirrawee.
Development company Payce negotiated a deal with Moelis Australia to sell all the units in the six-storey Flora Street building for $28.5 million.
The investment company's purchase was first reported by the local paper, the St George Leader, as being at "about 30% below peak sale prices".
A followup story by Nine Enertainment suggested the deal came at a discount of between 20-25% based on market prices for units sold in the area last year.
Moelis is seeking investors to finance the purchase of the apartments, which will be rented. 
The Moelis prospectus said rental income from the apartments was expected to grow at a rate of 3.5% a year.
The prospectus said the purchase price was a discount of about 30% on peak prices at South Village and 20% below those achieved in 2019.
"The block includes 29 one-bedroom, 24 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom units," he said.
"The sale price is comparable to selling the units individually on the open market when all selling costs are included.
"These costs include GST, agent commissions, marketing costs, holding costs and buyer incentive offers.
"The apartment block is the only one of seven in the development on the former brick pit site that Payce had to sell on completion.
Co-developer Decor had the remainder, telling the local paper their apartments were "selling very well".
"About 600 have been sold to date, with about 180 to go."
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Moelis buys 54 unsold South Village at Kirrawee apartments 

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Data released by SQM Research has revealed the national residential rental vacancy rate declined marginally in May 2019 to 2.2%, a decrease from 2.3% in April. 
The total number of vacancies Australia-wide is now at 75,093 properties for rent, a decrease of 2,571 over the month but up 5,941 dwellings over the past 12 months.
Most states recorded minor declines ranging from 0.1% to 0.3%.
Darwin and Sydney have the highest vacancy rates in the country, both at 3.3%. 
A 3.0% vacancy rate is what would normally be considered a balanced market.  Darwin declined by 0.3% and Sydney’s decline was 0.1%. 
Perth’s vacancy rate is not far behind at 3.1%, having dropped 0.1%.
Hobart’s vacancy rate decreased from 0.6% to 0.5% in May and continues to record the lowest vacancy rate in the country.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%201.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%201.png" alt="">
Source: SQM research The month of May recorded a marginal change in rental vacancies, overall. However the standouts for me were the falls in vacancy rates for Brisbane and Perth.
The rental market is decidedly turning in favour for landlords in these two cities. Both cities also recorded fairly strong increases in asking rents for the month.
Indeed, Perth is now recording a 6% rise in asking rents for houses over the past 12 months. 
With no expected material increase in new dwellings, the rental market will continue to tighten from here for the two cities.
Asking Rents
Capital city asking rents decreased by 0.2% for both units and for houses for the week ending 12 June 2019 to record asking rents of $553 per week for houses and $441 per week for units. 
In comparison, over the 12 months, asking rents for houses increased 0.4% but declined 0.7% for units.
Sydney’s asking rent for units and houses have both continued to decline marginally by 0.1% for houses and 0.5% for units to 12 June. 
Over 12 months, the decline has been 3.6% for house rents and 3.8% for units.
Adelaide, Darwin and Hobart were the only states to experience increases in weekly rents for both houses and units.
Adelaide’s house rents increased 1.0% and units by 1.8%, Darwin’s house rents increased by 3.0% (the highest among all states) and units increased by 0.1%. 
Hobart’s house rents increased 1.9% and units increased by 3.7% (the highest among all states).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%202.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/19/sqm%202.png" alt=""> 
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National vacancy rate declined in May: SQM research

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The first half of 2019 confronted a unique set of circumstances in that both a state and federal election were held, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
This has provided a further brake on the Sydney property market, particularly in the case of the federal election with property at the forefront of the campaign given the negative gearing and capital gains tax changes proposed, the report noted.
In general, auction rates have improved on the back of vendor expectations meeting the market, the number of property transactions is down compared to 2018 and price declines have been slowing but are still down 4.3% from the start of the year to mid-May, with an 11.2% decline over the past 12 months, according to Corelogic. 
"There have been mixed results across Sydney however with different areas performing better than others," the valuation firm said. 
The tables below show the five best and five worst performing Sydney regions in regard to change in dwelling values.
Median prices in the Blue Mountains and upper northern beaches showed greater resilience over the past 12 months while Epping and southern Sydney appear to have experienced the greatest falls.
Capital city SA2 regions with greatest annual change in dwelling values, 12 months to Apr-19
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA2 Region 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Capital city region
</td>
<td valign="top">
Change 12 mths to April-19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Blue Mountains -North
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
1.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Wentworth Falls
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
0.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bayview - Elanora Heights 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-1.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Lawson - Hazelbrook Linden
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-2.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Newport - Bilgla
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-2.6%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom house with original features at Katoomba has been sold for $515,000 (pictured below).
The elevated character home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-katoomba-131222054" target="_blank"> 34 Freelander Avenue </a>comprises formal lounge room, open plan kitchen, large living area, three bedrooms, sunroom and established garden.
It's close to local schools, park and bus stop.
<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/2019/6/13/katoomba%20.jpg" alt="">
Capital city SA2 regions with largest annual fall in dwelling values, 12 months to Apr-19
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
SA2 Region 
</td>
<td valign="top">
Capital city region
</td>
<td valign="top">
Change 12 mths to April-19
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Bass Hill - Georges Hall
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-19.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Epping - North Epping
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-19.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Panania - Milperra - Picnic point
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-18.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Revesby
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-18.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top">
Miranda - Yowie Bay
</td>
<td valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td valign="top">
-17.8%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A five bedroom house at Bass Hill recently sold for $1.03 million (pictured below).
Set on a 645 square metre block, the family home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-bass+hill-131175086" target="_blank"> 41 Broad Street</a> comes with multiple living areas, five bedrooms, timber kitchen and outdoor entertainment area.
Other features include security alarm system, air conditioning, video intercom, and wood fireplace.
<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/2019/6/13/bass%20hill.jpg" alt="">
The report suggest house prices still appear to be falling at a faster rate than units, with the Sydney median house price down 3.1% in the March quarter to $1,027,962.
This compares to the Sydney median unit price which is down 2% in the March quarter to $696,935 (source: Domain).
"A likely interest rate cut, an increased appetite for new loans by major lenders and more certainty after the elections are likely to see market conditions continuing to improve in the second half of the year, with prices beginning to stabilise," the report said. 
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Sydney house prices falling faster than units: HTW residential 

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EXPERT OBSERVER
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The latest data from the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) on property exposures data from authorised deposit-taking institutions (ADIs) shows that the tougher lending policies of recent years continue to reduce mortgage risks. 
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Over the March 2019 quarter, APRA reports that there was $72.395 billion in residential mortgages to households, which was -17.9% lower than the previous quarter and down -16.5% on the March 2018 quarter. 
As the chart shows the value of lending to investors and owner-occupiers is falling. 
Over the quarter the value of lending to owner-occupiers was -17.6% lower and it was down -15.2% year-on-year. Lending to investors was -18.7% lower over the quarter and -19.6% lower year-on-year. 
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The heightened level of interest-only lending has been seen as a key risk in the market and new interest- only lending has fallen over the quarter both on a value and share of total basis. 
Over the quarter there was $10.785 billion in interest-only lending which was the lowest on record. 
As a share of total lending, interest-only was also at a record low of 14.9% which is a far cry from its peak at 45.6% in June 2015. 
As a proportion of the total portfolio of outstanding loans, interest-only now accounts for a record low 23.3% which is down from a peak of 39.5% in June and September 2015.
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Interest-only lending isn’t the only area in which there has been a reduction riskier lending. The value of low documentation loans, other non-standard loans and loans approved outside of serviceability all fell over the quarter in terms of both value and their share of total lending. 
In fact at 0.1% of total lending over the quarter, both other non-standard loans and low documentation loans were at an historic low share of mortgages while the 4.3% of loans that were approved outside of serviceability was the lowest share since December 2017.
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While most areas of riskier lending recorded a reduction over the quarter, there was a slight increase in the share of new mortgages written with a loan to value ratio (LVR) of more than 80%. Over the quarter there was $15.772 billion worth of new mortgages with an LVR of more than 80%. 
Although that was the lowest value on record, that is more a function of reduced overall demand for mortgages. The share of mortgages with an LVR in excess of 80% was recorded at 21.8% over the quarter which was its highest share since March 2017. The share of higher LVR loans is still well below its peak of 37.6% in March 2009 and most new borrowers have more than 20% equity in the property they are purchasing. 
Nevertheless, it is a little surprising that given the current tight credit conditions and falling dwelling values that there is an increased willingness to lend to borrowers with less than a 20% deposit. 
Overall, the data reflects the ongoing improvements in mortgage quality and the shift towards reducing the build-up of risk in the mortgage market. We would expect the current conditions to continue over the next quarter. Thereafter it will be interesting to see what happens given that there has been an interest rate cut and it looks as if APRA will be relaxing some of the serviceability limits in place on mortgages. 
On the other side of things, comprehensive credit reporting is being implemented which is likely to mean even more scrutiny on borrowers debts and subsequently increased pressure on lenders to write high quality mortgages. 
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CAMERON KUSHER  is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic
Kusher regularly posts on the <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news" target="_blank">CoreLogic website</a>.
 
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Lenders continue to reduce the risks in their mortgage books

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A Ray White Townsville auction event secured a 100% clearance rate this week.
Ray White Townsville agent Julie Mahoney sold five out of five of the properties that were set to go under the hammer.
Four of the five sold at auction, with another selling prior.
Mahoney said all the homes offered were inner-city and were either fully renovated or on larger blocks, with four surpassing their reserve prices.   “It’s not every night you have a 100 per cent clearance rate and we achieved nearly $1.4M combined for our vendors, so it was a great evening,” Mahoney said.
The priciest sale was the one secured pre-auction which saw a Rowes Bay home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-rowes+bay-131294686" target="_blank">10 Palm Street</a> (above) sell for $925,000.
The cheapest sale was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hyde+park-131294694" target="_blank">two bedroom Dillane home</a> (below) that sold for $222,500.
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The other three sales were a $597,000 sale at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-townsville+city-131294690" target="_blank">8 Murray Street, Townsville City</a>, a $335,000 sale at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-west+end-131294698" target="_blank">17 Mary Street, West End</a> and a $235,000 sales at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-west+end-131294710" target="_blank">10A Cowley Street</a>, also in West End.
“Townsville is fast approaching a ‘normal’ market and the announcement of massive projects and the Adani approval has signaled confidence and the promise numerous job opportunities," Mahoney said.   “The election has definitely resulted in renewed confidence in property as an investment option for the future.  “I believe the community voted strongly for employment, small businesses and for our farming community.   “The venue at the Ville is an upmarket destination overlooking our beautiful magnetic Island with a choice of bars and restaurants and it’s a testament to my whole team that the night was such a success.
 
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