New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

Joel Robinson

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

The long-planned transformation of Brisbane's historic Shafston Estate has taken another major step, with Capella Hotel Group announced as the luxury hospitality partner behind what will become Brisbane's first branded residences.

The project, to be known as Capella Residences Brisbane, is being delivered by Verso Projects at the landmark Kangaroo Point riverfront estate, with completion targeted for 2029.

The announcement follows a series of planning changes to the project over recent years. The site was originally approved in 2023 for a 15-level, 37-apartment development designed by Rothelowman for Burgundy Group before Verso Projects took over the 10,070 sqm riverfront holding and lodged revised plans with Kerry Hill Architects to increase the development to a 25-level tower with 51 apartments.

The latest announcement confirms Capella Hotel Group will bring its branded residential offering to the project, marking just the second Capella Residences development globally after Seoul, and the group's first branded residential project in Australia.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-castlebar-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Castlebar Street development</a> will centre around the restoration of the heritage-listed Shafston House, one of Brisbane's oldest residences, originally constructed in 1851 by Reverend Robert Creyke as a single-storey cottage known as Ravenscott.

<img alt="Capella" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b9f4ce5-638f-4d6b-8082-3ca7e4b75fca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-09%20at%207.20.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=f7aeqsW_DzOJI4FymWb3lD8NptSfsP7q" />

Capella said the project aligns with its focus on heritage-led developments, with the Brisbane estate combining the restored historic residence with a new luxury apartment tower and hospitality-inspired resident amenities.

Residents will have access to the Capella Living Room, a concierge-led communal space inspired by the group's luxury hotels, alongside landscaped gardens, six swimming pools, wellness and recreation facilities.

The broader estate will also include two riverfront homes, a six-berth private marina, porte cochère arrival experience, secure basement parking and a new section of public riverwalk along the Brisbane River frontage.

The heritage Postal Depot Building will also be retained and repurposed as a guest house, in line with the revised development plans.

The project represents another evolution for the site, which Kerry Hill Architects previously described as a rare opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's most significant heritage estates while creating a new benchmark for apartment living.

"The Shafston Estate provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's finest heritage precincts and to reinstate residential use as a unique site perched on the edge of Kangaroo Point," Kerry Hill Architects said in its Urban Context Report accompanying the planning submission.

"The project will celebrate excellence in sub-tropical residential design, setting a new benchmark for vertical living in Brisbane."

Verso Projects, which now has an $8.5 billion development pipeline spanning more than 6,000 dwellings across apartments, townhouses, retail and commercial projects, said the partnership with Capella would elevate the development beyond a traditional residential project.

"We feel honoured to be restoring Shafston Estate to its former glory, elevating it to new heights of luxury and excellence underpinned by Capella's distinctive service ethos and design philosophy, and making it a standout landmark in Brisbane," Verso Projects CEO Steve Laffey said.

"By partnering with Capella, globally recognised for its refined approach to luxury hospitality and deep respect for cultural and historical context, we will elevate this project beyond a residential offering into a world-class destination."

Capella Hotel Group President Roland Fasel said Brisbane's emergence as a global city made it the right location for the company's Australian residential debut.

"Brisbane is a city on the cusp of something remarkable, and Capella Residences is our commitment to being part of that story," Fasel said.

"The Capella residential experience is more than luxury. It is about a sense of belonging to a place with deep meaning."

Private appointments have now opened for the project, with a display suite expected to open in late 2026 ahead of the planned 2029 completion.

Capella to launch Brisbane's first branded residences at Shafston House, Kangaroo Point

Lewis Land's latest apartment release within its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan is targeting one of the Gold Coast's fastest-growing buyer groups, with almost a third of apartments at Solis priced below $1 million.

The seven-storey building at Biggera Waters will comprise 91 apartments, including 24 one-bedroom residences starting from $778,000, a price point Lewis Land says is aimed squarely at first home buyers struggling to enter the Gold Coast market.

<img alt="Harbour Shires" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7486e37-22f6-4c92-b212-9b0622070b8f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=W8MJwJUCf6HkIyl_EVSksnd.QI6MZryY" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lewis-land-group">Lewis Land</a> Head of Development Michael Long said the developer deliberately allocated a significant proportion of the project to more affordable apartment types.

"First home buyers have been priced out of many parts of the Gold Coast, and we saw a clear opportunity to address this and play our part in a longer-term housing solution," Long said.

"That's why 24 of the 91 apartments being delivered at Solis have been designed and priced for the city's next generation of homeowners, quality one-bedroom apartments, half of which include an additional multipurpose room to maximise space and flexibility.

"This approach places 30 per cent of apartments in Solis under $1 million, and with close proximity to Harbour Town's future light rail extension connecting residents to the city's major employment and knowledge hubs, it's a win for buyers looking to secure their first property."

<img alt="Sores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="550526d3-73ba-4710-9739-c5f4294a30ef" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.29%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=cQQdXHt9wS0UXwZEm5Py5bH_3kAmzyhu" />

Designed by BDA Architecture, Solis will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with residences ranging up to 232 sqm. Apartments feature generous balconies and contemporary finishes, while residents will have access to Harbour Shores' lagoon pool, clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga studio and sauna.

The focus on first home buyers resonated with purchaser Holly Humphreys, who said she and her boyfriend spent more than a year searching for their first property before shifting their attention from houses to apartments.

"We fell in love with the first house we bid on and got our hopes up, but after repeated knockbacks we learned not to get too attached," Humphreys said.

"We offered at the high end of price guides, but sales kept going even higher. That's where we really struggled and we needed to re-evaluate our budget and our expectations. Standalone houses were off the table, and we pivoted to apartments and townhouses."

Humphreys said it was encouraging to see developers recognising the growing demand from first home buyers.

"There's a growing number of young buyers looking to enter the market earlier because they understand that getting in now can make a real difference as prices continue to rise," she said.

"It's fantastic to see a developer recognise this and then actively take measures to deliver an apartment with us in mind."

Solis is the first development planned within the second stage of the Harbour Shores masterplan, with early works expected to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land targets first home buyers at latest Harbour Shores release, Solis

Luxury apartment developer Abadeen has recorded $19.25 million in apartment sales across two of its Lower North Shore developments in the lead-up to the end of the financial year, headlined by the sale of a $6.75 million penthouse at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-5-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO in Crows Nest.</a>

The transactions also included the sale of a newly completed three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences in Cremorne</a> for $6.35 million, with the residence selling shortly after the project's first public inspections following completion.

The sales come as completed, owner-occupier-focused apartments continue to attract strong demand across Sydney's Lower North Shore, particularly from buyers looking for certainty and immediate occupancy.

The penthouse at KOYO spans 491 sqm across a single level and was designed by architect Koichi Takada. The development is one of Abadeen's flagship boutique projects in Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=370093]

Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said buyer activity lifted noticeably in the lead-up to the end of the financial year.

"We saw a clear increase in enquiry levels, inspection numbers and buyer engagement across our completed projects leading into the end of the financial year," Brown said.

"Buyers have become far more decisive over the past six months. The combination of improving confidence, limited supply and the ability to physically inspect completed residences is creating strong competition for premium apartments in the best locations."

Brown says the&nbsp;response to Park Residences following completion has been particularly strong.

"Buyers want certainty and are responding positively to the opportunity to walk through a finished product, inspect the quality firsthand and move in immediately," Brown suggested.

"Projects such as Park Residences and KOYO demonstrate that when the product is exceptional and the location is irreplaceable, buyers are prepared to act quickly."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=370116]

Abadeen CEO Joe Tack said quality continued to differentiate projects in the current market.

"Today's buyers are incredibly discerning," Tack said.

"They are seeking larger floorplans, premium finishes, walkability, lifestyle amenity and confidence in the developer delivering the project. Well-designed boutique developments continue to outperform because they offer something genuinely difficult to replace.

"The enquiry we are seeing across our completed and recently completed Lower North Shore portfolio is very encouraging, and we expect this momentum to continue into spring."

The sales follow increased enquiry across Abadeen's Lower North Shore portfolio which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/northcote-collective-naremburn-2-northcote-street-naremburn-nsw-2065">Northcote Collective in Naremburn</a> which also completed recently.

KOYO penthouse headlines Abadeen's $19.25 million EOFY sales flurry

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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Sydney’s City and Inner South region had the highest weekend auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 53 auctions in the area 84.9% resulted in a successful outcome.
This was followed by the Inner West with 82.1% and the Northern Beaches with 80.7%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.32%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.32%20am.jpg" alt="">
Only 52.6% of Blacktown's 19 auctions were cleared making it Sydney's lowest clearance rate region.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-kurnell-125892974" target="_blank">37 Dampier Street</a>, Kurnell (above) was sold for $1.38 million.
It was last sold in 2011 for $530,000.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sydney's City and Inner South scores 84% auction clearance rate: CoreLogic

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Melbourne’s North West region had the highest weekend auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 77 auctions in the area 87% were successfully cleared.
This was followed by the Mornington Peninsula with 79.2% and the Inner South with 77.7%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.41%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.41%20am.jpg" alt="">
The Inner East region had the lowest clearance rate with only 71.4% of its 105 auctions cleared.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-keilor+east-125908850" target="_blank">42 Borva Drive</a>, Keilor East (above) was sold for $824,000 over the weekend.
Another three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-keilor+east-125831622" target="_blank">10a Woorite Place</a>, Keilor East (below) was sold for $787,500.
<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/2017/08/07/10a%20Woorite%20Place.jpg" alt="">
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Melbourne's North West region scores highest auction clearance rate: CoreLogic

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Brisbane has notched up the lowest weekly home value growth, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that Brisbane’s home value grew by 0.1% in the past week.
This was lower compared to Melbourne’s 0.5% or Adelaide’s 0.4%.
Perth was in decline, the property data company advised.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.04.08%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.04.08%20am.jpg" alt="">
Brisbane also has the lowest year to date home value growth with only 0.8% compared to Melbourne’s 9.6%.
It’s home value growth per month is also the lowest with a decline of 1% compared to Perth’s 0.6% decline.
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Brisbane's slow home value growth: CoreLogic

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Geelong once again takes the top spot for the highest weekend auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that 78.3% of Geelong’s 23 auctions were cleared over the weekend.
This was followed by the Sunshine Coast with 68.8% and the Hunter region with 68.4%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.50%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2010.11.50%20am.jpg" alt="">
The Gold Coast had the lowest clearance rate with only 40% of its 20 auctions cleared.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hamlyn+heights-125908154" target="_blank">8 Griffen Street</a>, Hamlyn Heights (above) was sold for $545,000 over the weekend.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-north+geelong-122886898" target="_blank">228 Thompson Road</a>, North Geelong (below) was sold over the weekend.
<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/2017/08/07/228%20Thompson%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Geelong scores top spot once again for highest clearance rate: CoreLogic

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Property portal realestateVIEW.com.au has been relaunched as view.com.au.
The portal features an insights tool called Property 360, which features over 10 million properties and allows people to track the value of their home, calculate property price estimates, and see historical sales/rent data.
<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/2017/08/07/view_logo.jpg" alt="" width="491" height="216">
Enzo Raimondo, chief executive officer of view.com.au said the goal of the new view.com.au portal is to empower people through property data and analytics. 
“Our research shows that consumers are looking for more data-driven information to help them make more informed decisions, and with spring being the peak buying and selling season in Australia we wanted to launch this new information-led portal in advance to support those looking to place their property on the market and/or to purchase a property,” he said. 
“View.com.au provides intelligence and accurate property price estimates, giving people more control over how they browse, as well as greater access to insights and a better view of the whole picture.”
The old site (below).
<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/2017/08/07/realestateviewold.jpg" alt="">
"Four valuable tips for buyers, sellers and renters in the lead-up to the spring market is with national real estate listings increasing three percent in June and house prices trending slightly lower (the June QTR the lowest since Dec 2015), the pendulum of power has swung back to buyers.
"High unit supply will likely put downward pressure on inner city unit prices, particularly in Melbourne and Brisbane
"While there has been a slight dip in clearance rates over the past few weeks, this is a common occurrence in the cooler months and we’re expecting clearance rate to increase again with the onset of Spring.
"The democratisation of data has put the power back into the hands of the consumer, allowing them to be more educated and more informed, thus making the property decision easier for the individuals and agents." 
Enzo Raimondo established realestateVIEW.com.au in 2001 during his time at the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. In 2016 Enzo retired from the REIV and became the CEO. 
You can view the site <a href="https://www.view.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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RealestateVIEW.com.au relaunched as view.com.au

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Houses in Newcastle, the NSW Central Coast and Coffs Harbour are still at market peak according to the August Property Clock from Herron Todd White.
The locations were at peak of market for houses in July as well, according to HTW.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%209.38.46%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%209.38.46%20AM.png" alt="" width="854" height="555">
 
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Herron Todd White said over 50 percent of residential sales in the Lower Hunter in the past financial year being to investors, this region is certainly a hot spot for property investment. 
"The number of investment home loans has dropped nationally over the past year and this trend is predicted to continue due to the regulatory clampdowns that have been imposed," HTW said.
"These regulations and the government’s efforts to cool the housing market especially in major cities would suggest that investment should slow down nationwide. 
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<div class="column">
"This may not be the case in the Lower Hunter however; in fact it will probably buck the trend. 
"Newcastle is still an enticing prospect for investors due its close proximity to Sydney, its affordability compared to the capital cities and an excellent rental market with a current vacancy rate of just 2.3 percent. 
"With Newcastle being a university city there is a high investor involvement in good rental yield suburbs close to the university such as Jesmond and Wallsend. 
"However investors are also looking at inner city and coastal suburbs such as Cooks Hill, Wickham and Adamstown for higher capital gains. 
"Strong rental returns, larger blocks, competitive capital gains and the ability to find low maintenance 2- to 3-bedroom properties for under $500,000 means the region offers plenty of good investment opportunities for those who can’t afford the larger capital cities, especially Sydney."
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Houses in Newcastle, the NSW Central Coast and Coffs Harbour at market peak: HTW Property Clock

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A one bedroom St Kilda East apartment has sold for $307,000 making it Melbourne’s cheapest reported weekend sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-st+kilda+east-124621614" target="_blank">22/87 Alma Road</a>, the property was marketed as perfect for first home buyers.
Built in 1960 it was last sold in 2010 for the same price of $307,000
It features original timber floors and has its own built-in robes and separate study nook for the bedroom.
Stainless steel appliances and tiled splashbacks for the kitchen are also included.
There is also a large living and dining area along with an entry level car space.
The property is in close proximity to shops, restaurants and public transport.
The property was offered through Buxton agents Simon Pintado and James French.
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Seven years on, one bedroom St Kilda East apartment sold for $307,000 same price

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Australian Supercars driver Rick Kelly secured the $3.7 million weekend sale of his beachfront home at Carrum overlooking Port Phillip Bay.
The sale (below) came soon after the two-storey Nepean Highway house had been passed in at $3.4 million at its Ray White auction.
<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/2017/08/07/700_kelly.jpg" alt="" width="552" height="335">
<div class="x_w_ad x_w_unruly">The resort-style property, that features three bedrooms, sold to a local mature-age couple.</div>
<div class="x_w_ad x_w_unruly">
The nation's top sale came elsewhere in Melbourne when the Armadale home of the former Qantas chairwoman Margaret Jackson was sold for $5.84 million (lead image).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-armadale-125913590" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The four-bedroom house</a> saw two bidders compete for the property owned by downsizes, Ms Jackson and her husband, Roger Donazzan.
The Marshall White auctioneer Justin Long opened with a vendor bid of $4.8 million, then declaring it on the market at $5.42 million.
Last traded in 2004 at $2.75 million, it was offered with price hopes of $4.9 million to $5.39 million.
Melbourne's inner east was the only Melbourne region to register a clearance rate below 70 per cent, according to Domain.
The northern suburbs region scored a 91.7 per cent clearance rate on Saturday.
The first weekend of August saw fewer auctions across the capital cities, according to the CoreLogic property data firm which calculated the national clearance rose to 71.5 per cent.
</div>
The capital cities had 1,846 auctions, down from the 1,987 auctions held over the prior week, but still up on a year ago when there were the 1,540 auctions.
The preliminary auction clearance compared with the prior weekend's preliminary clearance of 70.7 percent success rate.
But this was revised to 68.7 per cent after late results, according to Kevin Brogan, the CoreLogic auction analyst.
"Final results have been consistently in the high 60 per cent range since the first week of June," he noted.
Across the two larger auction markets, Melbourne continued to show resilience.
Melbourne's 75.7 per cent result came from 799 reported auctions.
There were 907 auctions held across the city, down from 956 last week when the final auction clearance rate was 75.6 per cent.
The volume was higher than the 724 auctions held one year ago, along with a lower clearance rate of 74.2 per cent last August.
An Albert Park house sold for $5 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-albert+park-125864530" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">24 Herbert Street</a>, (below) the home came with three bedrooms plus study, along with two bathrooms.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.37.39%20AM.png" alt="">
The home was set behind a striking, original Art Deco facade, of the former Morris Bros Union Dairy on the 327 sqm block.
The property, offered through David Wood at Hockingstuart, had a $4.6 million reserve.
It was a family that eventually came out on top, paying $400,000 above reserve set by the vendor who renovated after the property was bought for $626,400 in 1999.
Melbourne's St Kilda East has the nation's cheapest sale when a one bedroom apartment sold for $307,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-st+kilda+east-124621614" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">22/87 Alma Road</a> (below) the property was marketed as perfect for first home buyers.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.38.48%20AM.png" alt="">
Built in 1960 it was last sold in 2010 for the same price of $307,000.
Across Sydney, 615 homes were taken to auction with a preliminary clearance rate of 71.1 per cent across 477 reported results.
Last week, the final clearance rate for the city was 65.4 per cent, across 714 auctions.
One year ago, 544 Sydney homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 77.5 per cent.
The City and Inner South had a success rate of 84.9 per cent and the Inner West at 82.1 per cent.
Sydney's top sale was <a href="https://www.maxwalls.com/buying/search/detail?id=ID223" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a three bedroom Mosman apartment</a> (below) that sold for $4.7 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.40.11%20AM.png" alt="">
Located at 20B Redan Street, the Balmoral Slopes offering last sold in 1995 for $1.025 million.
The duplex was offered through Max Walls International agent Anthony Walls.
Domain reported over the first seven months of this year, 19,221 Sydney homes had been auctioned - some 31 per cent higher or 4628 more than the 14,593 listed over the same period last year.
There were 153 Brisbane homes taken to auction this weekend, with the preliminary clearance rate at 48.8 per cent, down from 49.6 per cent last week.
Brisbane's Fig Tree Pocket saw <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-fig+tree+pocket-125861762" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rivergum Retreat</a> (below), a mansion, owned by former Linc Energy boss Peter Bond, fail to sell at auction.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.42.06%20AM.png" alt="">
<div class="x_in-content-ad">The riverfront seven-bedroom, nine-bathroom mansion on 1.2 hectares was passed in at $9.25 million, $250,000 short of its 2008 purchase price.</div>
<div class="x_in-content-ad"> </div>
<div class="x_in-content-ad">Ray White agent Matt Lancashire marketed it as “one of the most substantial properties in Brisbane."</div>
Bidding between two parties started at $8 million. 
Brisbane's top sale was a five bedroom house at Calamvale for $3.3 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-calamvale-125905222" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">85 Menser Street</a> (below), the 10,119 sqm property was marketed as having development potential.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.43.08%20AM.png" alt="">
The property was last sold in 2016 for $3.08 million has approval for 38 town houses.
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 69.4 per cent across 59 auctions on the weekend, up from 64 per cent across 82 auctions on the prior weekend.
A 1910 stone-fronted Prospect house was among Adelaide's results, selling for $955,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-prospect-125906674" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">46 Johns Road</a>, (below) the four bedroom 1910 property last sold in 1994 for $165,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.44.01%20AM.png" alt="">
Perth’s clearance rate surprised with a 72.7 per cent across 35 auctions.
It was up from the previous week, when 28 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 34.8 per cent was recorded.
Canberra’s preliminary auction clearance rate of 69.6 per cent was lower than last weekend, when the final auction clearance rate was 70.5 per cent and lower than the 74.1 per cent recorded on the same weekend last year.
A five bedroom Hackett house sold for $1.26 million making it Canberra’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-hackett-125919762" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">4 Verco Street</a>, (below) the property is set on the foothills of Mount Majura nature reserve.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/07/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-07%20at%2011.44.47%20AM.png" alt="">
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Australia's top weekend sale in Armadale, Melbourne

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While on the subject of dwelling price indices, CoreLogic's index results to 31 July showed capital growth across the combined capital cities of +10.5 per cent over the year to July. 
The quarterly price increased across the capital cities slowed to +2.2 per cent in July, down from a pacy +3.6 per cent in February.
Sydney houses (+12.3 per cent) and units (+10.3 per cent) have continued to be strong performers over the year to July 2017.
Growth in Melbourne house prices has accelerated to a thumping +17.2 per cent, although unit prices (+4.6 per cent) have lagged.  
Overall, this helped to take the median capital city dwelling price to a new high of $625,000.
The rest of state figures increased by +5.4 per cent over the year to July, to $382,500.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/CL.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/CL.jpg" alt="">
 
Rental price growth returns
CoreLogic's quarterly showed a return to annual rental price growth, following a crackdown on lending to investors. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/07/DGF71qyUMAATak6.jpg-large.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/07/DGF71qyUMAATak6.jpg-large.jpeg" alt="">
 
The rental price growth was driven by Sydney, (+4.5 per cent) Melbourne (+4.1 per cent), Hobart (+6.2 per cent), and Canberra (+8.4 per cent).
These rental price gains were offset by declines in Darwin and Perth.
Perth levelling out
CoreLogic noted that Perth appears to be approaching the bottom of its market cycle, with prices easing by -0.3 per cent over the three months to July. 
Prices in the Western Australian capital have declined by -10.2 per cent since the market peak in 2014.
Transaction volumes in Perth have also found a floor at 2,500 per month, while listing numbers have also declined.
The "mining cliff" has now been effectively seen off<a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2017/06/mining-cliff-seen-off">,</a> too.
These are positive numbers, though I do note that my dwelling supply dashboard implies that there will yet be a lot of new dwellings to be absorbed!
 
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
 
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Is the Perth property market finding a floor?

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The first week of August saw a dip in auction volumes, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
But the property data firm says that preliminary auction clearance rose to 71.5 percent.
The first week of August saw fewer auctions held across the combined capital cities, with 1,846 held this week, down from the 1,987 auctions held last week, however higher than the 1,540 auctions one year ago.
The preliminary auction clearance rose to 71.5 per cent, after last week saw the final auction clearance rate fall slightly to 68.7 per cent (revised lower from a preliminary clearance of 70.7%).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.02%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.02%20am.jpg" alt="">
Over the last month, auction volumes have remained relatively steady and while clearance rates have shown a softening, final results have been consistently in the high 60 per cent range since the first week of June.
Across the two larger auction markets, Melbourne continues to show resilience to softening conditions relative to Sydney, with Melbourne’s clearance rate recording in the mid-high 70 per cent range for another week (75.7 per cent), while Sydney’s preliminary auction clearance rate increased over the week (71.5 per cent).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.19%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.19%20am.jpg" alt="">
Last week Sydney recorded its lowest rate of clearance so far this year (65.4 per cent).
In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, 75.7 per cent of the 799 reported auctions sold this week.
There were 907 auctions held across the city this week, down from 956 last week when the final auction clearance rate was 75.6 per cent and higher than the 724 auctions held one year ago, with a lower clearance rate (74.2 per cent).
The Inner region of Melbourne had the highest number of auctions this week (162), with a preliminary clearance rate of 75.4 per cent.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.29%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.29%20am.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile, the strongest clearance rate was recorded across the North West region and Mornington Peninsula region, where an 87.0 per cent and 79.2 per cent rate of clearance were recorded respectively.
Across Sydney, 615 homes were taken to auction this week with a preliminary clearance rate of 71.1 per cent across 477 reported results.
Last week, the final clearance rate for the city was 65.4 per cent, across 714 auctions.
One year ago, 544 Sydney homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 77.5 per cent.
This week, the performance across Sydney’s individual sub regions was varied.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.37%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.37%20am.jpg" alt="">
Across the Central Coast region, where 17 results have been reported so far, the preliminary clearance rate was 64.7 per cent, while across City and Inner South (84.9 per cent) and Inner West (82.1 per cent) the success rate of reported auctions was much higher.
There were 153 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with 84 results reported so far.
The preliminary clearance rate for the city is 48.8 per cent, down from 49.6 per cent last week and lower than one year ago, when 54.5 per cent of the 127 properties taken to auction were successful.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.53%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.47.53%20am.jpg" alt="">
Across the Gold Coast 20 results have been reported so far, with a success rate of 40.0 per cent (8 sales).
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 69.4 per cent across 59 auctions this week, up from 64.0 per cent across 82 auctions last week.
At the same time last year, 58 homes were taken to auction, with 63.5 per cent recording a successful result.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.48.10%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/08/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-06%20at%2011.48.10%20am.jpg" alt="">
Perth’s clearance rate of 72.7 per cent across 35 auctions is up from the previous week, when 28 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 34.8 per cent was recorded.
Over the same week last year, the clearance rate was a lower 36.0 per cent, and 30 auctions were held.
Canberra’s preliminary auction clearance rate of 69.6 per cent this week is lower than last week, when the final auction clearance rate was 70.5 per cent and lower than the 74.1 per cent recorded last year.
There were only 5 Tasmanian auctions held this week. 1 was reported as sold.
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