<p>ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.</p>

<p>The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.</p>

<p>They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" /></p>

<p>The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.</p>

<p>"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."</p>

<p>The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.</p>

<p>Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" /></p>

<p>The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.</p>

<p>"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."</p>

<p>The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.</p>


Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

<p>An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.</p>

<p>Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.</p>

<p>The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" /></p>

<p>Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.</p>

<p>As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."</p>

<p>Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" /></p>

<p>The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.</p>

<p>As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.</p>

<p>Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" /></p>

<p>The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.</p>

<p>Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.</p>

<p>Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.</p>


Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

<p>Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.</p>

<p>Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.</p>

<p>One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.</p>

<p>Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.</p>

<p>That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]</p>

<p>The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.</p>

<p>Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.</p>

<p>The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.</p>

<p>The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.</p>

<p>"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.</p>

<p>Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]</p>

<p>For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.</p>

<p>"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."</p>

<p>"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."</p>

<p>More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.</p>

<p>"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]</p>

<p>As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.</p>

<p>Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.</p>

<p>For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]</p>


Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.</p>

<p>Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.</p>

<p>Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.</p>

<p><img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" /></p>

<p data-end="1160" data-start="703">The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.</p>

<p data-end="1394" data-start="1162">The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.</p>

<p data-end="1767" data-start="1396">At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.</p>

<p data-end="1936" data-start="1769">Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.</p>

<p data-end="2070" data-start="1938">"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.</p>

<p data-end="2230" data-start="2072">"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."</p>

<p data-end="2397" data-start="2232">Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.</p>

<p data-end="2600" data-start="2399">"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.</p>

<p data-end="2805" data-start="2602">Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.</p>

<p data-end="2942" data-start="2807">Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.</p>

<p data-end="3078" data-start="2944">"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.</p>


First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.</p>

<p>Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.</p>

<p>"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."</p>

<p>Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."</p>

<p>"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]</p>


Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

<p>Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.</p>

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="252" data-start="225">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="413" data-start="389">Stamp Duty Benefits:</strong> Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.</p>

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Benefits</strong>: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.</p>

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="920" data-start="893">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="1162" data-start="1135">Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.</p>

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.</p>

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="1617" data-start="1590">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.</p>

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Relief:</strong> Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.</p>

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant</strong>: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: 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.</p>

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.</p>

<p>Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.</p>

<p>A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.</p>

<p>NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

<p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Cost Savings:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Environmental Impact:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Improved Comfort: </strong>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.</p>

<p><strong>Market Value and Desirability:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Compliance with Building Codes:</strong> 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.</p>


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?

<p>Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.</p>

<p>Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.</p>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.</p>

<p>It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;"><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></p>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:</p>

<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>

<p style="line-height:1.38">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.</p>


Ellen Walker

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

<p>For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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<p dir="ltr">The financial advisory and restructuring firm Ferrier Hodgson have been appointed voluntary administrators of the parent company of the SumoSalad Group.<br><br>“The administrators now control the group’s operations and are assessing the group’s financial position,” Kelly advised SumoSalad’s creditors.</p>
<p>Morgan Kelly and Peter Golhard were appointed voluntary administrators of the Sumo Group HQ on July 18 pursuant to Section 436A of the Corporations Act 2001, Ross Greenwood's 2GB Money News reported.</p>
<p>The administrators indicated "the group's operations are continuing to trade the business in the ordinary course."</p>
<p dir="ltr">The company’s first meeting of creditors will be July 30. </p>
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<p><span>A second meeting of creditors will be held on or before August 22 unless the court extends the date.</span></p>
<p><span>It is business as usual for the shop outlets, just the HQ which is needing a recapitalisation.</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr">Last June SumoSalad put two of its companies into administration in order to force its retail landlords to negotiate over lease payments. Last July the fast-food franchisee had reportedly managed to negotiate lower rents from reluctant landlord Westfield through its tactic of insolvency laws.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Its founder Luke Baylis put two of its companies, Sumo Westfield Leasing Pty Ltd and Sumo Leasing Pty Ltd, which held leases of about 23 SumoSalad outlets, into administration last June saying it would not have an impact on the rest of the network's 104 stores still continuing with business as usual.</p>
<p>This week Baylis told Inside Retail that while the operations of the business would be in the hands of the administrators, he expected the Sumo fresh food stores to continue trading as normal while the business is restructured – a process that is likely to take between 35 and 60 days.</p>
<p>There are more than two companies in administration this time:</p>
<p>Sumo Group Australia Pty Limited (ACN 107852335)</p>
<p>Sumo IP Holdings Pty Ltd (ACN 147743084)</p>
<p>Sumo Salad (Frenchising) Ply Limited (ACN 110 387 061)</p>
<p>Sumo Marketing Fund Pty Ltd (ACN 1,6920202)</p>
<p>SumoSalad Store Development Pty Ltd (ACN 106886800)</p>
<p>Sumo Salad Group Services Ply Ltd (ACN 142590707)</p>
<p>SumoSalad (Corporate Stores) Ply Limited (ACN 106886793)</p>
<p>Sumo Salad Leasing 2 Pty Limited (ACN 148842433)</p>
<p>Sumo Salad Consolidated Leasing Ply Limited (ACN 6,6940571)</p>
<p>SumoSalad International Frenchising Pty Ltd (ACN 1,4325629)</p>
<p>SumoSalad Singapore Frenchising Ply Ltd (ACN 153971781)</p>
<p>SumoSalad NZ Franchising Pty Ltd (ACN 102550694)</p>
<p>Sab Closed I Pty Ltd (ACN 142790001)</p>
<p>Property Observer gathers Ferrier Hodgson were initially contacted by Luke Baylis in late June to consider the appointment as voluntary administrators to the group. Morgan Kelly and Phil Quinlan attended a meeting with Luke Baylis and Glenn Toohey, CFO of the group, on July 3.</p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Administrators back at SumoSalad HQ

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<p><span>The busiest suburbs for auctions this weekend are all in Melbourne. </span></p>
<p><span>Topping the list with 16 scheduled auctions is Reservoir, followed by Bentleigh East with 13 and Glenroy with 11, while Craigieburn and Mount Waverley will host 10 auctions each this week.</span></p>
<p><strong>Upcoming auctions</strong></p>
<p><span>Auction activity is expected to remain relatively subdued this week with 1,155 homes scheduled for auction across the combined capital cities, similar to the 1,178 auctions held last week, although lower than this time last year when 1,748 homes were taken to auction.</span></p>
<p><span>Looking at the individual capital cities, auction volumes are similar week-on-week with Melbourne and Tasmania set to see an increase in the number of homes taken to auction while Canberra is expecting no change in auction volumes.</span></p>
<p><span><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/2018/7/19/auction%202.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><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/2018/7/19/auction%203.jpg" alt=""></p>
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<p><span>Melbourne is set to be the busiest auction market this week, with a total of 569 homes scheduled for auction, similar to last week when 559 auctions were held across the city but lower than 12 months ago when 833 homes went under the hammer in Melbourne.</span></p>
<p><span>In Sydney, 386 homes are currently scheduled for auction this week, down from 408 last week and lower than the same week last year when 625 auctions were held across the city.</span></p>
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<p><strong>Summary of Last Week’s results</strong></p>
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<p><span>Last week saw 1,178 homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities, returning a clearance rate of 52.0 per cent after the previous week recorded a clearance rate of 52.6 per cent across 1,411 auctions. Over the same week last year, 1,627 homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was a stronger 69.4 per cent.</span></p>
<p><span>Melbourne’s final clearance rate came in at 56.2 per cent across 559 auctions last</span><span>week, similar to the previous week when 631 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 56.1 per cent was recorded. This time last year auction volumes were higher across the city with 756 homes going under the hammer returning a clearance rate of 74.9 per cent.</span></p>
<p><span>Sydney’s </span><span>final clearance rate dropped to 46.9 per cent last week across 408 auctions, the lowest clearance rate the city has seen since December 2012. In comparison, 552 auctions were held across Sydney over the previous week returning a clearance rate of 50.1 per cent while this time last year, 609 homes went under the hammer, returning a clearance rate of 69.2 per cent.</span></p>
<p><span>Across the smaller auction markets, clearance rates improved everywhere except Brisbane. In terms of volumes, Adelaide was the only city to see an increase with an additional 8 homes taken to auction over the week.</span></p>
<p><span>Of the non-capital city markets, the Hunter region recorded a 70.6 per cent final auction clearance rate across 17 results, followed closely by Geelong where 70.4 per cent of the 27 auction results were successful.</span></p>
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<p><span><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/2018/7/19/auction%204.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><span>One upcoming auction in Reservoir is a Henty St two bedroom townhouse which has been listed for $475,000 to $420,000 (pictured below).</span></p>
<p><span>It has been offered by Marc Romeo from Barry Plant.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-reservoir-128754662" target="_blank">Located at 7/84-86 Henty St</a>, the double storey townhouse comes with two bedrooms, modern kitchen, spacious courtyard and lock uo garage.</p>
<p><span>It is currently leased at $<span> $1,651 P.C.M.</span></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><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/2018/7/19/reservoir%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Another Banbury Rd three bedroom house priced at $610,000 to $670,000 also has been schduled for auction on July 21.</p>
<p>It has been offered by Phil Peros and Ken Gu from Love&amp;Co.</p>
<p>Set on a 456sqm allotment,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-128647510" target="_blank"> 62 Banbury Rd</a> features three bedrooms, family sized eat-in kitchen, large living room, and sleek bathroom. </p>
<p>Additional features include carport, garage, storeroom and alfresco area.</p>
<p>It is close to Edwards Lake and the station. </p>
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Reservoir tops winter weekend auction activity again: CoreLogic 

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<p>There were 31,859 personal insolvencies in 2017–18, which is the largest annual number of personal insolvencies since the record of 36,539 set in 2009–10, according to the latest report from AFSA the Australian Financial Security Authority.</p>
<p>The number of personal insolvencies rose by 5.6% in 2017–18 compared to 2016–17. </p>
<p>Comprised of a 3% increase in bankruptcies, a 9.1% increase in debt agreements and a decrease in personal insolvency agreements of 12.3%.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/19/AFSA%20Chart%201.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>Personal insolvencies reached record annual levels in Northern Territory and Western Australia in 2017–18.</p>
<p>The 14,834 new debt agreements in 2017–18 was the highest annual number on record, and represents the seventh consecutive annual increase.</p>
<p>Debt agreements were at record annual levels in all states and territories except Tasmania.</p>
<p>There were 214 new personal insolvency agreements in 2017–18, a fall of 12.3% from 244 in 2016–17.</p>
<p>Personal insolvency agreements fell to a record annual low in Victoria.</p>
<p>Personal insolvencies reached record annual levels in Northern Territory (352) and Western Australia (4,020) in 2017–18.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/19/AFSA%20Chart%202.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>Bankruptcies jumped to 16,811 in Australia in 2017–18, an increase of 3.0% from 16,320 in 2016–17.</p>
<p>The annual rise in bankruptcies is the largest since 2008–09, with the only other rise of 0.2% occurring in 2015–16.</p>
<p>Despite this rise, the number of bankruptcies is below 2008–09, when there were 27,520 bankruptcies.</p>
<p>The annual rise in bankruptcies in 2017–18 was the result of increases in the Northern Territory (31.7%); Tasmania (11.0%); Western Australia (10.6%); New South Wales (3.0%); Queensland (2.9%); South Australia (0.6%).</p>
<p>These increases were partly offset by falls in the Australian Capital Territory (5.6%) and Victoria (5.4%).</p>
<p>Bankruptcies reached an annual record high of 158 in the Northern Territory this year.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/19/AFSA%20Chart%203.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>There were 14,834 new debt agreements in 2017–18, an increase of 9.1% from 13,597 in 2016–17.</p>
<p>This is the highest annual number of debt agreements on record and represents the seventh consecutive annual increase.</p>
<p>Debt agreements have increased as a proportion of total personal insolvencies from 23.4% to 46.6% since 2008–09.</p>
<p>Debt agreements increased in 2017–18 compared to 2016–17 in all states and territories.</p>
<p>All states and territories reached record annual highs except for Tasmania.</p>
<p>There were 332 debt agreements in Tasmania, two less than the record level of 334 set in 2012–13.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/19/AFSA%20Chart%204.JPG" alt=""></p>
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Insolvency, debt agreements and bankrupcy continued to grow this year: AFSA

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<p>Australia's biggest apartment developer, Meriton, is set to release more than 200 high-end brand new apartments.</p>
<p>They are releasing them into the Mascot rental market in response to unrelenting demand from tenants who want to call the suburb home.</p>
<p>The 237 ‘lifestyle’ apartments are spread across three six-level buildings in Meriton’s nearly-completed Signia development at <a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=200+Coward+St&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g">200 Coward St</a>, boasting grand outlooks, with district views to the east, parkland vies to the south, and Sydney CBD views to the north.</p>
<p>Signia includes two buildings which house the just-opened 179-suite Meriton Suites Sydney Airport hotel.</p>
<p>The Signia rental apartments will contribute to Meriton this year lifting the number of apartments in its build-to-rent pool past the 3500 mark.</p>
<p>Victor Toscano, Meriton’s head of residential leasing, says Mascot has become a rental hotspot, thanks to its proximity to the Sydney CBD and easy access to Sydney Airport.</p>
<p>He says the Signia apartments are the latest to be completed in a self-funded build-to-rent program that Meriton has been running for more than 20 years.</p>
<p>“The apartments include the very best design features and finishes and are very much right up there with apartments we are marketing to owner-occupiers and investors across Sydney.”<br><br>Signia will also offer some of the largest apartments in the area with sizes of 50sqm-72sqm internally for a one-bedroom apartment, 73sqm-98sqm internally for a two-bedroom apartment and 92sqm-119sqm internally for a three-bedroom apartment. External space ranges from 8sqm up to 74sqm.</p>
<p>Signia, in which the final building will be completed in July, includes landscaped gardens, an 80-place childcare centre, more than 1000sqm of retail space, and tenant parking for 223 cars.</p>
<p>Meriton owner Harry Triguboff, who founded Meriton 54 years ago, long has been an ardent fan of Mascot and has become the dominant developer in the suburb.</p>
<p>His Mascot Central four-tower project completed in 2016, gave the suburb a new heart, in the form of an alfresco-style retail precinct with a full-scale Woolworths supermarket and 16 specialty and food retailers, including cafes and restaurants.</p>
<p>The latest Meriton projects at Mascot include Kiara and Spectrum, plus the group’s debut Platinum Collection building, VIDA.</p>
<p>In July Mr Triguboff’s grandson, Ariel Hendler, will release Escada, a 12-level building with 104 apartments.</p>
<p>Meriton has retained hundreds of apartments in the suburb, adding them to its build-to-rent portfolio.</p>
<p>Mr Toscano says Meriton’s Mascot projects offer residents great lifestyles by virtue of their landscaped parks, barbecue areas, pools, saunas and gymnasiums.</p>
<p>“Those things are part and parcel of our Signia development.</p>
<p>“They are important to people today, especially to those who want to relax, entertain or workout without having to get in a car and travel.”</p>
<p>Mr Toscano said Meriton, despite its major Mascot rental portfolio, was struggling to meet tenant demand.</p>
<p>“The arrival of the Signia apartments will be like a breath of fresh air to our rental management team.”</p>
<p>Mr Toscano said Signia rents would start at $570 for a one-bedroom apartment without parking and peak at $1000 for a three-bedroom unit with two car spaces.</p>
<p>Signia spans a 1.715ha site bought for $47 million in 2013.</p>
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Meriton making major build-to-rent release

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<p>EXPERT OBSERVER</p>
<p>Over the 10 years to June 2018, national dwelling values have increased by a cumulative 43.9% with the combined capital cities recording an increase of 52.6% and the combined regional markets recording growth of 16.6%.</p>
<div title="Page 1">
<p>Houses values have increased by 46.9% nationally over the past decade with combined capital city values growing at a faster pace (56.2%) than the combined regional markets (20.0%) Of the 88 regions SA4 national regions, 73 areas recorded an increase in dwelling values over the past decade with the remaining 15 recording falls. No SA4 regions of NSW, Vic, Tas, NT or ACT have recorded a decline in values over the past decade. Meanwhile, a majority of the WA SA4 regions have recorded declines in values over the past decade.</p>
<div title="Page 1">
<p>The region to record the greatest increase in house values over the past decade was the South West region of Sydney where values increased 112.9% over the period. An additional five SA4 regions have seen house values double over the past decade, they were: Parramatta in Sydney (107.4%), Inner South West of Sydney (106.6%), Outer South West of Sydney (103.3%), South East of Melbourne (102.7%) and the West region of Melbourne (102.3%).</p>
<div title="Page 1">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<p>The regions of the country in where house values recorded the largest decline over the past decade were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Outback (North) in WA (-38.3%)</li>
<li>Outback (South) in WA (-34.0%)</li>
<li>Mackay-Isaac-Whitsunday in Qld (-27.3%)</li>
<li>Central Queensland (-26.8%)</li>
<li>Townsville (-23.6%).</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div title="Page 1">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<p>Only 3 capital city SA4 regions, all of which are in Perth, have recorded house value falls over the past decade.</p>
Value growth in NSW and Vic has been substantially stronger than growth elsewhere. In fact, the regions of NSW (Riverina) and Vic (North West) that recorded the weakest conditions over the decade have seen value growth well in excess of the best performing WA region (Perth-North West).</div>
<div>
<br>Outside of NSW and Vic, the regions with the strongest value growth across the remaining states and territories over the decade were: Brisbane-South (30.2%), Adelaide-West (20.3%), Perth-North West (2.2%), South East in Tas (43.9%), Outback in NT (35.2%) and ACT (30.3%).</div>
<div>
<br>Illawarra in NSW recorded the greatest increase in house values of all regional markets over the past decade with values increasing 86.8%. Illawarra recorded the 15th highest rate of house value growth over the past decade nationally.</div>
<div>
<br>The remaining regional markets that recorded relatively large increases in house values were:</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div title="Page 1">
<ul>
<li>Geelong (79.6%)</li>
<li>Southern Highlands Shoalhaven in NSW (77.9%)</li>
<li>Newcastle and Lake Macquarie (68.6%)</li>
<li>Bendigo in Vic (63.3%)</li>
</ul>
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/HOUSE%201.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge
<div title="Page 2">
<p><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/2018/7/19/HOUSE%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/HOUSE%202.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge</p>
<p><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/2018/7/19/HOUSE%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/HOUSE%203.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge</p>
<p><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/2018/7/19/HOUSE%203.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking at unit values, nationally throughout the past decade, units increased by 34.2% which is lower than the 46.9% increase in house values. Unit value growth in the combined capital cities (42.0%) and combined regional housing markets (0.4%) was similarly lower than that for houses (56.2% and 20.0% respectively).</p>
<p>Of the 88 SA4 regions across the country, 53 have recorded an increase in unit values over the past decade with the remaining 35 recording a fall.</p>
<p>The South West region of Sydney recorded the greatest increase in house values of all SA4 regions (112.9%) and it has also recorded the greatest increase in unit values (98.0%). While seven regions of the country have recorded a doubling of house values over the past decade, not one region has seen unit values double over the same period. Only the Outer South West region of Sydney (81.0%) and Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs (78.2%), along with Sydney’s South West have recorded decade unit value growth of more than 75%. By comparison, over the past decade, 24 regions of the country have recorded house value growth in excess of 75%.</p>
<p>Unit values have recorded the largest declines over the past decade in:</p>
<div title="Page 2">
<div>
<div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>Outback (North) WA (-73.3%)</li>
<li>Outback (South) WA (-65.7%)</li>
<li>Darling Downs-Maranoa in Qld (-52.9%)</li>
<li>Central Queensland (-45.8%)</li>
<li>Townsville (-45.6%)</li>
</ul>
For the regions where unit values dropped, 15 were capital city regions with the remaining 20 located in regional areas of the country. The capital city unit markets that recorded the greatest unit value falls were: Darwin (-26.0%), Ipswich in Qld (-23.5%), Logan-Beaudesert in Qld (-22.1%), Moreton Bay-South (-20.5%) and Perth-Inner (-19.5%).</div>
<div>
<br>Outside of NSW, the regions of each state and territory to record the greatest increase in unit values over the past decade were: Melbourne-Outer East (63.1%), Outback region of Qld (28.7%), South East region of SA (41.0%), Wheat Belt region of WA (54.9%), South East region of Tas (63.3%), Outback region of NT (28.7%) and ACT (11.6%).</div>
<div>
<br>Outside of the capital cities, the regional markets that have recorded the greatest increase in unit values over the past decade were: South East in Tas (63.3%), Illawarra in NSW (60.2%), Far West and Orana in NSW (55.7%), Wheat Belt in WA (54.9%) and Bendigo in Vic (46.2%).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The growth in house and unit values over the past decade has been characterised as very much slanted to strong growth in Sydney and Melbourne and weaker conditions elsewhere.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>While the last 10 years is not predictive of the future, dwelling values are already falling in Sydney and Melbourne and regional markets are currently outperforming capital cities.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>With housing in a downturn in Sydney and Melbourne and affordability stretched, at this point it seems unlikely the returns of the past decade will be replicated over the next 10 years.</div>
<div>Change in unit values over the decade to June 2018 across SA4 regions.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Click<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/unit%201%20.jpg" target="_blank"> here</a> to enlarge</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2018/7/19/unit%201%20.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/unit%202.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2018/7/19/unit%202.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/7/19/unit%203.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2018/7/19/unit%203.jpg" alt=""></div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
</div></body></html>

ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

National dwelling values have risen over 4% on average for the past decade: Cameron Kusher

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<p>A Victor Harbour four bedroom house with coastal and island views remains listed for sale by mortgagees with a price guide of $1 million to $1.05 million.</p>
<p>The South Australian home is listed by Nathan Fry from Harcourts.</p>
<p>Offers close July 31.</p>
<p>It has been on and off the market over the past two years for over 400 days.</p>
<p>It last sold for $830,000 in October of 2013.</p>
<p>Sit on a 709sqm corner allotment,<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-victor+harbor-128759218" target="_blank"> the 1 Franklin Parade</a> house comes with four bedrooms, <span>spacious family living/dining areas, </span>designer kitchen with stone benchtops, cellar/storage areas, and large balconies on three sides.</p>
<p>Additional features include solar/electric heated lap pool, high ceilings throughout and security system.</p>
<p>The location is <span>close to restaurants, cafes, and the boat ramp.</span></p>
<p>The suburb's median house price sits at<a href="/developments/victor-harbor-sa-5211"> $330,000</a>, according to CoreLogic.</p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p> </p>
</body></html>

$1 million Victor Harbor home offering by mortgagees

<html><body>
<div style="text-align: left;" align="center">Findings from an independent survey commissioned by CouriersPlease reveal that only one in four Aussies don’t trust their neighbours enough to let them collect their mail.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">The survey of a nationally representative panel of <span lang="en-US">1021 Australians </span><span lang="en-US">asked respondents to think about their past and present neighbours when asked what they would trust their neighbours with.</span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">The results found that 74 per cent of respondents would trust their neighbours with responsibilities such as collecting mail and deliveries, looking after pets and plants, and holding a set of house keys while they are away.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Trusting%20Aussies.JPG" alt=""></div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">It also found that collecting mail (chosen by 82 per cent of respondents) and allowing couriers to leave parcels with them (69 per cent of respondents) were tasks we’d most trust them with.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Surprisingly, more respondents would leave their pet with their neighbour while they were away (49 per cent of respondents) than trusting them with their home key (46 per cent of respondents). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">When asked how many neighbours they trust, 37 per cent of respondents revealed they only trust one neighbour, while a quarter trust two to three neighbours around them.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">38 per cent trust their neighbours more now than they did 10 years ago.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">The survey also found that Baby Boomers are most trusting of their neighbours than Millennials.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">84 per cent of over 60s trust their neighbour, compared with just 64 per cent of 19-to-29-year olds.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">CP CEO, Mark McGinley, says “It’s heartening to see that Aussie neighbourhoods have remained strong."</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">CP has an existing parcel delivery option that enables those receiving parcels to redirect their delivery to a nominated neighbour up to three houses away if they won’t be home to collect it.<strong> </strong>
</div>
</body></html>

Three quarters of Australians trust their neighbours

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<p>EXPERT OBSERVER</p>
<p>Ever since the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) there has been an obsession with looking for the next recession.</p>
<p>In this regard, over the last year or so there has been increasing concern that a flattening yield curve in the US - ie the gap between long-term bond yields and short-term borrowing rates has been declining - is signalling a downturn and, if it goes negative, a recession in the US.</p>
<p>This concern naturally takes on added currency given that the current US bull market and economic expansion are approaching record territory in terms of duration and given the trade war threat.</p>
<p>The increased volatility in shares seen this year, including a 10% or so pull back in global shares earlier this year, adds to these fears.</p>
<p>Whether the US is about to enter recession is critical to whether the US (and hence global) bull market in shares is about to end. Looking at all 10% or greater falls in US shares since the 1970s (see the table in Correction time for shares?), US share market falls associated with a US recession are longer lasting and deeper with an average duration of 16 months and an average fall of 36% compared to a duration of 5 months and an average fall of 14% when there is no recession.</p>
<p>Similarly, Australian share market falls are more severe when there is a US recession.</p>
<p>So, whether a recession is imminent or not in the US is critically important in terms of whether a major bear market is imminent.</p>
<p>The long US economic expansion and bull market The cyclical bull market in US shares is now over nine years old.</p>
<p>This makes it the second longest since WW2 and the second strongest in terms of percentage gain.</p>
<p>And according to the US National Bureau of Economic Research the current US economic expansion is now 109 months old and compares to an average expansion of 58 months since 1945.</p>
<p>See the next two tables. So, with the bull market and the economic expansion getting long in the tooth it’s natural to ask whether it will all soon come to an end with a major bear market.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Oliver%20Graph%201.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>The yield curve flattens – but it’s complicated </strong></p>
<p>The yield curve is watched for two reasons. First, it’s a good guide to the stance of monetary policy. When short-term interest rates are low relative to long-term rates it indicates businesses can borrow short and lend (or invest) long &amp; this grows the economy.</p>
<p>But it’s not so good when short rates are above long rates – or the curve is inverted. And secondly an inverted US yield curve has preceded US recessions. So, when it’s heading in this direction some start to worry.</p>
<p>However, there are several complications. First, which yield curve?</p>
<p>Much focus has been on the gap between 10-year bond yields and 2-year bond yields which has flattened to just 0.3%, but the Fed has concluded that the traditional yield curve based on the gap between 10-year bond yields and the Fed Funds rate is a better predictor of the economy and it has flattened but only to 1%</p>
<p>. based on the gap between 2-year bond yields and the Fed Funds rate predicted past recessions like the longer yield curves but has actually been steepening in recent years which is positive.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Oliver%20Graph%202.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>Second, the yield curve can give false signals – the traditional version flattened or went negative in 1986, 1995 and 1998 before rebounding – and the lags from an inverted curve to a recession can be long at around 15 months.So even if it went negative now recession may not occur until late 2020.</p>
<p>Third, various factors may be flattening the yield curve unrelated to cyclical economic growth expectations including still falling longterm inflation and real rate expectations, low German and Japanese bond yields holding down US yields and higher levels of investor demand for bonds post the GFC as they have proven to be a good diversifier to shares in times of crisis.</p>
<p>Fourth, a flattening yield curve caused by rising short term rates and falling long term rates is arguably more negative than a flattening when both short and long term rates go up like recently.</p>
<p>Finally, a range of other indicators which we will now look at are not pointing to an imminent US recession.</p>
<p><strong>Watch for exhaustion, not old age</strong></p>
<p>A key lesson of past economic expansions is that “they do not die of old age, but of exhaustion”.</p>
<p>The length of economic expansions depends on how quickly recovery proceeds, excess builds up, inflation rises and the central bank tightens.</p>
<p>The US economic recovery may be long, but it has been very slow such that average economic and employment growth has been around half that seen in post WW2 expansions.</p>
<p>So as a result it has taken longer than normal for excesses to build up.</p>
<p>Apart from flattening yield curves one area where the US is flashing warning signs is in relation to the labour market where unemployment and underemployment have fallen about as low as they ever go warning of a wages breakout and inflation pressure.'</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Oliver%20Graph%203.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>However, there is still arguably spare capacity in the US labour market (the participation rate has yet to see a normal cyclical rise) and wages growth at 2.7% remains very low.</p>
<p>The last three recessions were preceded by wages growth above 4%.</p>
<p>Secondly, while US GDP is now back in line with estimates of “potential”, what is “potential” can get revised so it’s a bit dodgy and more fundamentally, industrial capacity utilisation at 78% is still below normal of 80% and well below levels that in the past have shown excess and preceded recessions.</p>
<p>Thirdly, cyclical spending in the US as a share of GDP remains low. For example, business and housing investment are around long term average levels as a share of GDP in contrast to the high levels in one or both seen prior to the tech wreck and GFC.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Oliver%20Graph%204.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>Finally, while the rising Fed Funds rate and flattening traditional yield curve is consistent with tightening US monetary policy, it’s a long way from tight.</p>
<p>Past US recessions have been preceded by the Fed Funds rates being well above inflation and nominal economic growth whereas it’s still a long way from either now. See the next chart.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/7/20/Oliver%20Graph%205.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p><strong>US likely to see overheating before recession </strong></p>
<p>Apart from the amber lights flashing from the flattening yield curve and very low unemployment our assessment is that a US recession is still some time away as it will take time for excesses to become extreme and US monetary policy to become tight.</p>
<p>Looked at another way, the US is still more likely to overheat before it goes into recession.</p>
<p>We have been thinking recession is a 2020 risk.</p>
<p>The end of the current fiscal stimulus around then would also be consistent with this. However, given the current slow pace in terms of building excess, that 2020 is a presidential election year – do you really think Trump will allow the US to go off a fiscal cliff then? – and with 2020 being the consensus pick for a downturn, the risk is that it comes later.</p>
<p>Of course, an escalating trade war could mess things up earlier, although we still see a negotiated solution.</p>
<p>The rising US budget deficit is a concern but it’s more of an issue for when the economy turns down as this is when investors will start to worry about its sustainability. And of course a 1987 style share market crash cannot be ruled out but probably requires a share market blow off before hand.</p>
<p>In the meantime, the Fed has more tightening to do and while share market volatility is likely to remain high as US inflation and short rates rise, excesses gradually build and given risks around Trump and trade, with recession still a way off the US and global share bull market likely still has some way to go.</p>
<p><em>Dr Shane Oliver is the Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist for AMP Capital.</em></p>
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Obsession with the next recession: Shane Oliver 

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Minutes of July 2018 Monetary Policy Meeting of the Reserve Bank Board

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<p>A four bedroom house in Spalding, <span>a northeastern suburb of Geraldton in WA, has been offered by mortgagees for $135,000.</span></p>
<p><span>It was listed by Debbie Brittain from Ray White and has been on the market on and off for over the past five years.</span></p>
<p><span>It was first listed with $360,000 hopes in 2013.</span></p>
<p><span>It was more recently listed with $316,000 hopes in 2017.</span></p>
<p><span>It last sold in 2009 for $305,000.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-spalding-128778806" target="_blank">Positioned on an 800sqm block</a>, 173 Anderson St house comes with four bedrooms, good size kitchen, lounge and living room plus double carport.</p>
<p>The suburb's median house price sits at <a href="/developments/spalding-wa-6530">$140,000</a>, according to CoreLogic. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span> </span></p>
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