The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

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Imagine being able to explore your new apartment, move your furniture around, and change the entire design palette at the click of a button. Thanks to the innovative technology of Virtual Reality (VR) and the talented team behind BVN REAL, apartment floorplans are being brought to life, with several buyers already trialing the product.

The cutting-edge new VR production studio named BVN REAL is a subsidiary business of <a href="/architects/bvn-architecture">award-winning architectural design firm BVN</a> and is led by creative director Barry Dineen and a team of highly skilled Game Developer Designers, 3D Visualisation Artists, VR Experience Developers, and Experience Designers. The product took four years to build and has already won the coveted 'Unreal Award' in 2018 (prior to the public launch) as well as receiving two other nominations in The AEC Excellence Awards.

<blockquote>
“Right now, people need to interpret, imagine, and visualise their future home using architectural drawings, plans, and 3D renders of the space. With VR they can actually step into their future for themselves and feel what it is like to be there. 

Our VR experiences give people the confidence to know that what they are seeing is exactly what they are going to get. It’s building trust and reducing the risk involved in one of the biggest purchases of buyers lives.”
</blockquote>

Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL 

<div class="intrinsic">
<div class="intrinsic-inner">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="370" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710549547_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/312440113?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" width="650"></iframe>
</div>
</div>

BVN REAL creative director Barry Dineen humbly acknowledged that although previous iterations of the technology were not taken to immediately, perseverance and user research led the team to focus in on how people authentically engage with VR.

<blockquote>
“The result is a powerfully immersive experience designed expressly for human interaction. A lot of developers and sales teams have dismissed VR because they tried a VR experience that was not designed with human behaviour at its core. When they try BVN REAL’s experiences there is an “ah-ha” moment where they see the true potential for VR for themselves.”
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bvn_real_immersive.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Users experiencing VR in the studio"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/bvn_real_immersive.jpg?itok=1y6l8TwQ" title="Users experiencing VR in the studio" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Users experiencing VR in the studio</figcaption></figure>INTUITIVE FEATURES INTEGRATED WITHIN BVN REAL

<ol>
<li>Users can instantly move between different apartment configurations and floorplans to compare options on offer</li>
	<li>Users have the ability to configure the space in real-time
	<blockquote>
	“Our experiences allow them to try out different materials and finishes options, change out furniture and fittings to their taste, or even strip it back to the empty shell so that they can get a better feeling for the space itself.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL
	</li>
	<li>A realistic sunlight system enables users to experience the property at all times of the day</li>
	<li>All elements of the apartments virtually function the way they would in real life
	<blockquote>
	“A major goal of any VR experience is presence – feeling like you are actually in that place. When a user tries to turn on a tap and the tap does nothing, they are reminded that they are in a virtual environment. 

	We want the technology to disappear so that they can truly appreciate the design of a space. At first adding running taps felt like a novelty but over time we have grown to realise the importance of reacting to people’s input.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL

	<ol></ol>
</li>
	<li>BVN REAL experiences are often ‘multiplayer’ because people feel more relaxed and comfortable when sharing the virtual experience with another real person. Currently, an avatar is used to represent those in the VR simulation with you
	<blockquote>
	“Realistically not many people are buying apartments on their own so we are trying to replicate what would happen if the apartment already existed. People walk around together a discuss the features and amenities. What really amazes us in our VR experiences is how many important conversations happen in the bathroom - even when the VR is situated on the 83rd floor of Sydney’s highest residential building with amazing views over the city.”
	</blockquote>

	Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL

	<ol></ol>
</li>
	<li>Sales agents can join in at any stage to answer any questions live from within the VR simulation</li>
</ol>
HOW VR CAN PROVIDE TRANSPARENCY IN THE OFF-THE-PLAN MARKET

In concurrence with Barry Dineen’s sentiment about VR giving buyers the ability to see a home before they buy it, BVN Co-CEO Neil Logan explains that it also helps provide more transparency and helps advocate for better built outcomes.

<blockquote>
“VR has radically changed the way we communicate design. What was once opaque to many is now transparent and easily digestible. It has facilitated better understanding of design intent and has provided the opportunity for better built outcomes. 

We are proud to make this service available to broader markets. In doing this we believe that we are contributing to the design of a better future”.
</blockquote>

BVN co-CEO Neil Logan

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penthouse_hero.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Penthouse apart VR "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penthouse_hero.jpg?itok=GpWjXi6N" title="Penthouse apart VR " width="680"></a>

<figcaption>Penthouse apart VR</figcaption></figure>WHAT’S INVOLVED IN THE PRODUCTION OF A VIRTUAL WALKTHROUGH

A typical 3-bedroom apartment takes approximately 2 to 4 weeks to develop. Often architects will use BIM to build their designs in 3D, making it easier to prepare each design component for the gaming software used to create the virtual reality experience (BVN REAL use Unreal Engine from Epic Games).

Designers will also supply the BVN REAL team with imagery of the fixtures, finishes, and furniture, which will be used to populate the VR design.

<div class="intrinsic">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710532178_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/355499775?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" title="Convene VR" width="736"></iframe>
</div>

WHAT DOES THE FUTURE OF BVN REAL LOOK LIKE?

Virtual Reality’s capabilities extend far beyond unbuilt architecture. Not only is BVN REAL exploring VR within our current reality, but also within purely virtual worlds that will never exist in our own. In the past, the team has created Makerspaces which allow school students to build and launch full-size rockets.

<div class="intrinsic">
<iframe allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" id="yui_3_17_2_1_1573710534038_74" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/343358323?app_id=122963&amp;wmode=opaque" title="MakerspaceX" width="736"></iframe>
</div>

Creative Director Barry has grand ideas for the future of BVN REAL, such as developing the world’s largest museum/gallery.

<blockquote>
“I really want to develop the worlds biggest museum/gallery as a virtual place that people can visit that allows us to do things and see things that we could never do or see in the real world – and it would be accessible to everyone.”
</blockquote>

Barry Dineen, Creative Director at BVN REAL 

We look forward to following the progress of BVN REAL’s exciting future developments with the VR architecture space.

 

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<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/new-photos-latest-construction-update-of-7-qld-projects">NEW PHOTOS: Latest construction update of 7 QLD projects</a></div>
</body></html>

Olivia Round

Introducing BVN REAL: Off-the-plan virtual reality house viewings are here

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Crowdfunding platform DomaCom have been given the green light by the ATO to offer a product in where parents can buy property with their self-managed super fund and allow their children to rent it out.
The sole purpose test (SPT) prevents self-managed superannuation funds buying a home and renting it to a related party, however the ATO have allowed DomaCom to go ahead with the practice.
It will allow the younger generation to co-invest with their parents and apply to live in the property.
They will have to pay a market rate rent however.
DomaCom CEO Arthur Naoumidis says he is pleased to confirm that DomaCom has obtained ATO confirmation on how SMSF trustees in DomaCom can satisfy the Sole Purpose Test.
“We thank the ATO for providing this practical clarification so that SMSFs can continue to invest in DomaCom property sub-funds where, subject to certain protocols being observed, related parties may happen to become the tenant of the underlying properties.”
A trustee of a SMSF will have to invest in a Sub-Fund of the DomaCom Fund and sign the sole purpose disclosure statement.
 
 
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Bank of mum and dad given green light to buy property with SMSF through DomaCom

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Did you know that you could learn to love paying strata fees?

Many property seekers will discover their dream home, in the perfect location, within their budget, only to find that the annual maintenance fees will set them back an additional $6,000 (<a href="https://www.lookupstrata.com.au/find-units-low-body-corporate-fees/">$115 per week</a>). That doesn’t have to be the case, and there’s even a trick to making these fees work for you. 

Think of your strata fees as a way of reducing home maintenance, scoring better discounts and a subsidised subscription to your favourite lifestyle facilities.

<h2>What strata fees cover</h2>

<ul>
<li>Building maintenance (both structurally and aesthetically; and in common areas)</li>
	<li>Amenity servicing (pools, tennis courts, gyms etc.)</li>
	<li>Building insurance</li>
	<li>On-site security, caretaker and/or cleaner</li>
	<li>Any shared utilities</li>
	<li>The ‘sinking fund’</li>
	<li>Management and administration</li>
</ul>
<h2>Administrative &amp; Sinking Funds explained</h2>

Administrative Fund

An administrative fund covers the day-to-day outgoing costs associated with running a building. This includes majority of the expenses listed above.

Sinking Fund (sometimes known as the capital works fund)

The sinking fund is a body of cash which is accumulated should an unexpected issue arise. This fund acts as a buffer to provide residents with financial security, to avoid any surprise lump-sum invoices.

<h2>What is the Owners Corporation?</h2>

Formally known as the 'body corporate', an owners corporation is a collective of homeowners within a residential development who make the financial and maintenance decisions for the building's common property. 

<h2>A simple guide to effectively make these fees work in your favour:</h2>

1. Bulk buy water and energy to reduce your utility bills

Many new apartments offer residents the option of bulk buying utility services such as electricity and water. This means that an upfront payment will be made at the beginning of the year at a fixed rate, meaning that if there are any cost spikes, residents who have pre-purchased will not be affected. Buying in bulk can also mean discounts can be negotiated with the provider since the client (owners corporation) is such a high-value customer.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/imani-vdq-e3rtaoe-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/imani-vdq-e3rtaoe-unsplash.jpg?itok=-yOqoJ6m" width="580"></a></figure>2. Shop around for a competitive insurance rate

As with bulk buying, since there are many home insurance companies in the marketplace, the corporation is able to actively seek the best rate on the market. By joining the owner’s corporation, you are able to advocate for this to be done on a yearly basis. For buyers joining an older apartment development, the first thing you should do is check the insurance premiums and see if you can get a competitive quote elsewhere. 

3. Find an apartment which has the amenities you feel happy to pay for

A lot of buyers are under the impression that amenities are “free perks” which come with an apartment. Each amenity provided within your apartment building comes at a premium. Once you change your perception of the cost of amenities and find an apartment which offers your favourite amenities and none of the ones you’ll never use, you’re more likely to feel confident that your payments are going towards the things that make you happy. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/nh_landmark_ame_cgi05_golf_r6.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The Landmark's golf simulator. Credit: A+ Design Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="322" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nh_landmark_ame_cgi05_golf_r6.jpg?itok=XtbUGuj6" title="The Landmark's golf simulator. Credit: A+ Design Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Landmark's golf simulator. Credit: A+ Design Group</figcaption></figure>4. Give up your gym membership and use your apartment facilities

The cost of gym memberships, movie tickets and spa experiences certainly add up, so by having these amenities included within your apartment building can save you transport time and cost, as well as often significantly reducing your outgoing payments*.

*Depending on your body corporate rates.

5. Speak up at the owner’s corporation meetings

Owners corporations can have a lot of flexibility to get creative when it comes to the financial and social aspects of an apartment building, so long as all residents are in agreeance. You could pitch some cost-saving suggestions which will actively reduce your body corporate bill such as:

<ul>
<li>Sharing a cleaning, gardener and security services with nearby buildings</li>
	<li>Use energy saver bulbs in communal areas</li>
	<li>Swap for sensor lights in hallways</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/haley-phelps-twoahjasoo4-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/haley-phelps-twoahjasoo4-unsplash.jpg?itok=_KXJXekT" width="580"></a></figure>6. Share your repair bills

Any house will require regular maintenance as well as repairs that could set you back thousands of dollars. Investing in a communal ‘sinking fund’ will help to prepare you for funding unexpected remedial work that needs to be done on the building.

7. Prepare yourself for fee inflation

Luxury amenities come at a price, and over the years your body corporate fees are likely to increase with inflation. Double, or even triple your body corporate fees, and if you feel confident that you can cover that rate, then you’ll be well prepared for any increases in future. It's important to note that if you're buying into an older building, sufficient maintenance might not have been completed – which could result in a spike in your annual fees. Similarly, some new apartments will entice buyers with low body corporate rates, only to realise that they need to up the annual levy for long term maintenance sustainability. If you're prepared for this, however, you can enjoy the rates at their lowest, and be comfortable spending a bit more if they increase. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/helloquence-5fnmwej4taa-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/helloquence-5fnmwej4taa-unsplash.jpg?itok=SbkzDajL" width="580"></a></figure>Lead image: Ruby apartments in Gungahlin. Credit: Stewart Architects.
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How to make strata fees work in your favour

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There’s no denying that there are numerous reputable and trusted construction firms across Australia. However, Consumer Affairs Victoria has readdressed the issue of <a href="https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/faketradies">‘fake tradies’</a> (also known as travelling conmen) after more homeowners have been burnt by the negative impacts of unscrupulous trade deals and undelivered work.

Consumer Affairs Victoria's public announcement sought to raise the awareness of home-owners as summer approaches, as this is the peak season for fake tradies to begin door knocking and handing out fliers for their services. Dodging a bad deal is also more difficult than it seems, with over $3 million lost by victims of trades conmen in Victoria alone. What is even more concerning as that the financial loss had increased by 200% over the course of only one year, between 2017 and 2018.

Margaret Connell was one of the hundreds of home-owners affected, losing more than $10,000 to a scam. Margaret engaged the services of individuals whom she believed to be reputable to install new gutters at her Melbourne home. The company told Margaret that they would only complete the work for cash, and charged Margaret an exorbitant fee for a job that was done in only three days and of “extremely poor quality”.

<blockquote>
“They must have put it [guttering] up with chewing gum you know.”
</blockquote>

Margaret Connell, home-owner who lost $10,500 to fake tradies

<div class="rtecenter"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lx7UnRBf7MY" width="560"></iframe></div>

<h2>Who do fake tradies target?</h2>

Anyone and everyone – even more sophisticated advertisements should be thoroughly analysed prior to engaging the company for building work. Consumer Affairs Victoria has found that those most prone to being targeted by fake tradies are homeowners and small businesses.  

<h2>What kind of services do they offer?</h2>

Any remedial maintenance work, from smaller tasks like painting and landscaping to large-scale projects such as driveway resurfacing and roof repairs.

<h2>What are the warning signs of a fake tradie?</h2>

They will often offer a cheap rate which can only be redeemed today (which is often a cash deal) and will provide no receipt or contract.

<h2>Consumer Affairs Victoria’s guide to avoiding fake tradies</h2>

Consumer Affairs Victoria wants to protect homeowners from the perils of scams – which cause financial and emotional distress. The government agency has shared a guide to undertaking thorough due diligence before employing trades workers with the hope to provide more insight into spotting dodgy tradespeople.

Here is their advice:

<ul>
<li>Use established tradespeople who provide written quotes</li>
	<li>Independently find the business’ contact details if someone claims to be working for a company</li>
	<li>Be cautious of individuals seeking upfront payment for works</li>
	<li>Do not sign any agreement that doesn’t seem legitimate</li>
	<li>Report any interactions with suspected fake tradies to Consumer Affairs Victoria</li>
</ul>
<h2>Aspects to consider if you’re buying or currently live in an off-the-plan apartment</h2>

As a property platform that focuses on <a href="/developments">off-the-plan</a> <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a> and <a href="/new-townhouses">townhouses</a>, we are aware that many buyers will also be engaging the services of tradespeople whether that be personally, by the developer, or via the body corporate.

Here are the factors to consider to protect your new home against poor quality workmanship:

<ul>
<li>
<a href="/guides">Research the construction firm</a> prior to purchasing, and look at the quality of their previous developments in real life</li>
	<li>
<a href="/guides">Ask your sales agent</a> to keep you informed of all construction updates, including if the builder who was initially assigned to the project is changed for a different construction firm</li>
	<li>Find out if the construction firm has completed many projects of the same size as the apartment development you are interested in</li>
	<li>Seek all building reports, inspections and planning documents (retain this information if you are purchasing the apartment/townhouse)</li>
	<li>Take photos of any building/apartment defects before and after they are fixed</li>
	<li>Find out who will be undertaking any grounds and <a href="/guides/2019/06/24/own-rental-property-here-are-14-things-to-check-to-avoid-major-problems-in-future">building maintenance</a> once the apartment building is complete</li>
	<li>Find out who you can reach out to if you were to find any faults within your apartment</li>
</ul>
Lead image credit: Consumer Affairs Victoria
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Consumer Affairs Victoria alerts home-owners to be wary of construction cowboys this summer

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ASIC has warned Australian investors considering establishing their own self-managed superannuation fund (SMSF) to be aware of the potential risks and downsides of such a strategy.
They said many Australians set up SMSFs that are inappropriate for their circumstances.
ASIC has identified eight "red flag" situations which, together or in part, would make it extremely unlikely for an investor to gain any advantage from using SMSFs to create and safeguard their intended retirement lifestyle.
Australian Tax Office figures reveal that as at 30 June 2019, there were 599,678 SMSFs in Australia holding nearly $748 billion in assets, making total assets held in SMSFs larger than those in either industry ($719 billion) or retail ($626 billion) funds.
ASIC Commissioner Danielle Press said, "ASIC believes that consumers are all too well aware of the potential benefits that might stem from using a SMSF, but are not equally alive to the considerable risks and responsibilities that come with the deal.
"SMSFs may be an attractive option for investors wanting more control over their superannuation investment strategy, but it requires real skill, care and diligence to manage your own superannuation. SMSFs are not for everyone simply because not everyone can meet the significant time, costs, risks and obligations associated with establishing and running one."
ASIC previously tracked and analysed member experiences in using an SMSF, and whether advice providers were complying with the law when providing personal advice about setting up an SMSF (refer Background). The research identified the "red flag" indicators that suggested when an SMSF may not be appropriate for an investor.
"Our research found that SMSFs are not suitable for members with a low fund balance, particularly where they have limited ability to make future contributions. This is important because consumers starting off with a low balance need to be aware that they may not be in a better financial position in the future by holding an SMSF compared with investing in an APRA-regulated fund," Ms Press said.
ASIC"s research also found that SMSFs are not an appropriate investment option for people who want a simple superannuation solution, particularly if they have a low level of financial literacy or limited time to manage their own financial affairs. On average, SMSF trustees spend more than 100 hours a year managing their SMSF.
"Where people have limited investment decision-making experience or prefer to delegate decision-making to someone else, they should carefully consider if an SMSF is right for them. As the trustees of their own fund, SMSF investors must remember that they are responsible for their fund"s compliance with the law, even if they pay a professional to help," Ms Press said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

ASIC identify the 8 red flags of SMSF's

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Off-the-plan <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a> and <a href="/new-townhouses">townhouses</a> can offer excellent opportunities to secure a brand new home for a great price. They can also boast state-of-the-art amenity offerings and hard-to-pass-up incentives. However, before you sign any contracts, it's always wise to undergo thorough due diligence to make sure that the offer is really as good as it sounds on paper and you can <a href="/guides">make your purchase with confidence</a>. To help you with this, we've prepared a list of 55 important questions to ask the sales agent about the off-the-plan property you're interested in. 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

<h2 class="rtecenter">PRODUCT</h2>

Firstly, you'll want to ensure the apartment you're buying has been built using high-quality materials and constructed by reputable builders. It's important to <a href="/guides/20-things-you-should-look-out-for-before-you-buy-property">gather as much information and documentation as possible</a> so that you're not surprised with any hidden covenants if you want to build a mezzanine or blockers if you want to apply for a street parking permit.

Questions to ask:

Can I see a comprehensive building material list?

Are the floorplans customisable?

Are there any fixture and fitting upgrade options?

Can I tour some previous projects by the developer?

Who is the developer, architect, interior designer, landscape architect and builder of this development?

Have proper building inspections been undertaken prior to construction?

Can I see a copy of the building report and council plan submission?

Is the development <a href="/guides/20-simple-changes-around-the-home-to-reduce-your-environmental-impact">environmentally conscious</a>?

Have <a href="/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-off-the-plan-apartment">low VOC and formaldehyde-free</a> products been used?

Is there a secure carpark, and what is the street parking like? Can I request a resident parking permit from council?

What brand appliances have been used?

Where have the fixtures and fittings been sourced?

What is included/not included?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">LOCATION</h2>

Other than doing your own research about the location (walking around the suburb by foot is a great way to do so!) – your sales agent will also have access to a lot of information and statistics that might be helpful for your decision-making.

Questions to ask:

Where is the local supermarket?

What are the highlights of the area?

Is there any planned infrastructure within the surrounding neighbourhood?

Is the population of this area growing or declining?

How far away is public transport?

How safe is the area?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227]

 

 

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

<h2 class="rtecenter">LIFESTYLE</h2>

Living in an apartment can come with many perks, including access to lifestyle facilities, resident lounges and more. Understanding the rules surrounding amenity use and lifestyle within the building will help you to determine whether the property is right for you.

Questions to ask:

What amenities will I have access to?

What are the access hours for the pool/gym?

How often can I book the dining/lounge/cinema?

Is there an owner’s corporation and how regularly will I need to attend meetings?

What percentage of sales have been made to owner-occupiers vs. investors?

Can my friends and family utilise the amenities within the apartment building?

Who is the body corporate/strata manager?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">LEGAL</h2>

While it's important to always engage a conveyancing lawyer when purchasing a home (and they should be able to add to this list of questions surrounding legalities), here are a few simple questions to consider asking the agent regarding your obligations, rights and restrictions.

Questions to ask:

Will there be a cooling-off period when I can change my mind about the purchase?

Is there a building guarantee?

What happens if there are any issues with the building or my apartment?

What covenants are there on the property?

Can I make changes to my apartment without consent from my neighbours?

What happens if something breaks within the apartment building? Who is liable?

What happens if I need to sell prior to settlement?

What are my obligations as a resident of this building?

What if my apartment doesn’t reflect the renders and proposed plans?

What is likely to happen if the sunset clause is enacted prior to settlement?

Can I rent out my apartment?

Can I offer my new apartment as an <a href="/guides/breezybnb-chooses-urban-s-5-best-brisbane-apartments-for-airbnb">Airbnb</a>?

Who will notify me if plans change prior to construction?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">FINANCIAL</h2>

Before you hand over your deposit, you're going to want to make sure there are no hidden costs and that you will be able to accommodate any <a href="/guides/18-ongoing-rental-property-costs-and-which-ones-are-tax-deductible">annual/ongoing fees</a> associated with owning an apartment/townhouse. 

Questions to ask:

Is the <a href="/guides/tips-for-negotiating-with-real-estate-agents">asking price negotiable</a>?

Am I eligible for any <a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-australias-first-home-buyer-grants">first home buyer grants</a>/subsidies/concessions?

Does the developer offer any financial incentives?

How much is the minimum deposit?

What happens to my deposit?

What are the annual body corporate/strata fees?

What are the annual rates currently?

What happens if the property depreciates upon settlement, will I still have to follow through with the purchase?

Is there potential for oversupply within this area that could impact the value of my home?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2772]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">TIMEFRAME</h2>

Lastly, in order to plan out the next phases of development, you'll need a good idea around the <a href="/guides">timeframe of your development</a>. This will help you to know what to pay and when, when settlement will be and the slated completion of your new apartment. 

Questions to ask:

At which stage will I pay my deposit?

What date will I need to have secured my home loan by?

When is this development slated for completion?

What happens if my apartment isn’t completed on time?

When I move in, will the development be 100% completed or will construction continue after I’ve moved in?

When will the settlement be?

Who will be my main point of contact throughout the buying process?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]

 

Got more questions to add to the list? Let us know in the comments section below.

 
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55 important questions to ask the sales agent when buying off-the-plan

Buying <a href="/developments">off-the-plan</a> allows property seekers to purchase brand new <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a> and <a href="/new-townhouses">townhouses</a> well before they have&nbsp;been built. Off-the-plan homes also give buyers the flexibility to customise their home prior to construction and the ability to often secure property&nbsp;a lower cost that a pre-existing house. To help you gain a better understanding of the off-the-plan process, here is a timeline outlining building concept to completion. You'll also learn at what stage of the process you can place an offer.

<h2>Stage One –&nbsp;THE PLANNING</h2>

First, the developer will acquire land to develop. This can involve cold calling property owners to scope their interest in selling (even if they haven’t considered it) or utilising traditional purchase methods (such as going through an agent). Sometimes developers will offer slightly more than the RV* because they will be able to recoup the additional funds once the development is completed and goes to sales.&nbsp;Once a site has been purchased, the developer will then get an initial plan drawn up by an architect, with the help of engineers, building surveyors, interior designers and landscape architects. The design team will usually go through a number of design iterations to gain approval by the council. As soon as a developer submits plans to council, the project is then listed on Apartments.com.au.

*Rateable value

<hr />
<h2>Stage Two – THE APPROVAL </h2>

Once the development application has been submitted by the developer, the council will publish this information online and begin their routine checks. The proposed building must be compliant with local building codes and fit within the covenants on the site title (eg. The building must not exceed a certain height, there must be a certain amount of green space within the public realm, the heritage façade of the pre-existing building must remain intact, etc.). Once the council and the developer have reached a decision on the final design, approval is then granted. At this stage, Apartments.com.au will notify any followers of the particular project that the project is likely to be coming soon.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_11.04.12_am.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="402" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_11.04.12_am.png?itok=xACuebMo" width="580" /></a></figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Three – “COMING SOON”</h2>

There is a period between “approval” and “registration and sale” before the project goes to market. This is time for the developer to offer the first pick of apartments/townhomes offshore or to VIP buyers. By this stage, many prospective buyers will be keeping an eye out for the date when the development goes to market. Apartments.com.au is always one of the first to notify interested buyers.

<hr />
<h2>Stage Four – REGISTRATION &amp; SALES</h2>

The official registration and sales period will often include a public launch and the opening of a display suite. The development will then enter a marketing phase, where a website is launched, as well as advertising across the broad spectrum of property marketing websites. Buyers will have the opportunity to visit the display suite and make a formal offer on the apartment/townhouse of their choice. During this stage, buyers will also pay their deposit to ensure they secure their new home. &nbsp;

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_8.56.41_am.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Browse Urban's range of apartments and townhomes for sale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="225" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_8.56.41_am.png?itok=-t6zfeqU" title="Browse Urban's range of apartments and townhomes for sale" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Browse Urban's range of <a href="/news">apartments and townhomes for sale</a></figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Five – GROUNDBREAKING + CONSTRUCTION COMMENCES</h2>

Prior to construction, the site will be cleared and prepared for building. Once this is complete and the development is ready to commence construction, a ceremonial ‘groundbreaking’ or ‘sod turning’ ceremony is held on-site. The event will see a group of key dignitaries take shovels to the soil, marking the first phase of construction. Apartments.com.au will then document the construction process with photos, videos, and articles; keeping buyers in the loop of the progress of their new home. During this phase, we have also noticed a lot of engagement from buyers who visit Apartments.com.au to ask questions about their new home and to interact with other buyers.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/stleonards.png" rel="gallery-all" title="St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story here."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/stleonards.png?itok=zLQR_F0l" title="St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story here." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story <a href="/news/st-leonards-new-43-storey-tower-the-landmark-commences-construction">here</a>.</figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Six – TOPPING OUT + SETTLEMENT</h2>

As the development reaches competition, another ceremony will be held to mark the ‘topping out’, which is when the tower reaches its highest point. At this point, the settlement will take place, giving buyers the opportunity to check their new home to ensure it is exactly what they had paid for in the early stages of development.

Also during settlement, the remainder of the sale price is paid, and keys are exchanged.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/aurora.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story here."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="246" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aurora.jpg?itok=P2WdYh7f" title="Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story here." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story <a href="/news/reaching-new-heights-melbournes-new-tallest-building-aurora-tops-out">here</a>.</figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Seven&nbsp;– BUYERS MOVE IN</h2>

The&nbsp;final stage of the process is where buyers move into their new homes. This can be staggered throughout construction (eg. as soon as lower levels of a tower are built, residents may be able to move in early).

If you've just bought a new apartment and are ready to move in, you may be interested to learn <a href="/guides/14-steps-to-making-your-brand-new-apartment-feel-like-home">how to make your apartment feel like home</a>.&nbsp;

Lead image credit:&nbsp;Marvin Meyer

How does buying off-the-plan work?

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In Australia’s current apartment market, concern over build quality has led buyers to be cautious when buying off-the-plan. However, it’s important to realise that there are plenty of exceptional buildings being constructed today which feature 7+ star environmental ratings, cutting edge technology, intuitive master planning and innovative architectural design. These new developments will hopefully shift the perception around buying a new apartment and provide a reference for future builds to replicate.

So how do you differentiate a good development from a bad one?

While it’s relatively subjective as to what defines a “good development”, following these 8 steps will ensure you feel more confident that the property you’re looking at is right for you.

<h2>#1 Research the developer, architect and builder’s track records extensively</h2>

Rule 101 of buying a <a href="/new-apartments">new apartment</a> is undertaking thorough <a href="/guides/20-things-you-should-look-out-for-before-you-buy-property">due diligence</a>.

Begin your search online by entering multiple variants of the team’s credentials.

<ul>
<li>You can do this by searching [developer’s name] on Google &gt; Tools &gt; All results &gt; Verbatim</li>
	<li>To find recent content, select Any time &gt; Past month/past week</li>
	<li>And to find any news coverage, select the “news” tab in Google</li>
</ul>
You can then search for the developer’s previous projects on <a href="/">Urban</a> – and take a look at them in real life. Find out if you can speak with any residents who live in one of the developer's buildings, and ask them if they're happy with their home, if there have been any issues since they’ve lived there and whether their apartment was delivered on time.

Another important way to gather information is to approach industry representatives, such as town planners, master builders and environmental consultants and ask for their honest opinion of the quality of work produced by the project team. This could be a simple task of visiting your local council office or picking up the phone to call a few different companies.

McGrath Projects’ General Manager Adam Sparkes also stresses the importance of a background check.

<blockquote>
“My advice to any potential purchasers of brand new or off-the-plan properties would be to undertake a thorough background check on both the developer and the builder. What legacy buildings have they delivered in the past? Check for local, national and international industry awards.”
</blockquote>

Adam Sparkes McGrath Projects General Manager via <a href="https://www.smartpropertyinvestment.com.au/development/19944-asbestos-again-the-future-of-apartment-values-as-cladding-quality-concerns-hit-fever-pitch">Smart Property Investment</a>

<h2>#2 Get finance pre-approval before you begin your property search</h2>

Buying off-the-plan is an attractive option to many due to its perks, such as substantial discounts or cashback offers for early buyer inquiries. Securing your finance ahead of your search will give you more bargaining power when it comes to making an offer.

<blockquote>
“When buying an off the plan apartment early on, you’ll be able to lock one in at current market value for as little as 10%. Construction could well take a year or two, but in that time, the market value of your property is likely to increase. By getting in there early, you’ll avoid paying fees for being late to the chase down the line.”
</blockquote>

Ruralco Property, via <a href="https://www.ruralcoproperty.com.au/2018/01/29/6-tips-for-investing-in-off-the-plan-apartments/">6 Tips for investing in off-the-plan apartments</a>

<h2>#3 Ask to see a comprehensive material list</h2>

Aesthetics are usually the first thing buyers will look at in a new apartment. Instead, you should be focussing on the longevity and <a href="/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-off-the-plan-apartment">quality of the materials used</a>. Take the list to a few different building experts for a second opinion and do your own research online. Consider the pros and cons of each building material that will be used ­– and if you'd prefer wooden floors over carpet, it's always worth asking the sales agent as often interiors of apartments are relatively customisable.

<h2>#4 Talk to other people who have bought off the plan</h2>

If it’s your first time buying off the plan, reach out to someone who has already been through the process themselves. Join property Facebook groups; chat to friends and family; read online forums – absorb all the information you can. You may learn about a great new incentive a particular developer is offering, or perhaps a firm to watch out for. Unbiased and honest reviews will give you more certainty about your decision.

<h2>#5 Explore the area by foot</h2>

Even if there is no building at the site, walking around the area will give you a good feel for the suburb. You’ll also be able to discover what is within walking distance from your future apartment. While the apartment renders may look perfect online, the physical location of the development is arguably more important.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-02_at_4.00.01_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Benjamin Sow"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="732" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-02_at_4.00.01_pm.png?itok=K7UdjXUl" title="Credit: Benjamin Sow" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Benjamin Sow</figcaption></figure><h2>#6 Choose your apartment carefully</h2>

Whether there are 10 or 100 apartments on offer, selecting the one for you can be a challenging task. Firstly, think about practicality – if it’s easy access you’re after, ground floor apartments are probably best for you. If a view is your priority, decide which side of the tower has the aspect of your choice. If you’re after lots of sunlight, choose a north-facing property.

<h2>#7 Prepare yourself for any unforeseen problems</h2>

Sometimes build schedules run late, or plans can require iterations before consent is approved. In this case, you have to be aware that there could be some blockers and the only option is to go with the flow. Communication with the sales agent will help you to stay up to date with the construction process – as well as following the project on Urban! 

<h2>#8 Ask questions</h2>

Prepare lots of questions before meeting with the sales agent. Don't be afraid to ask the agent too many questions, as providing you with answers is what will help them secure a sale. Before making the purchase, you need to feel confident that you have raised any concerns you may have first. 

Here are a few examples:

<ul>
<li>What is a rental guarantee?</li>
	<li>What are the body corporate fees</li>
	<li>What is the completion date</li>
	<li>How close will my apartment reflect the renders in the brochure?</li>
	<li>What features/appliances/extras are included and what are not? </li>
	<li>Is there a cooling-off period?</li>
	<li>Will I get my deposit back if the sale is not completed?</li>
	<li>What happens if I can't attain finance by the specified date?</li>
	<li>If I discover any building defects down the track, who will cover the remedial work?</li>
	<li>What happens if construction is completed late?</li>
	<li>Can I purchase this apartment using a <a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-australias-first-home-buyer-grants">First Home Buyer Grant</a>?</li>
</ul>
Once you've done your research and feel confident that the off-the-plan apartment or townhome is right for you, then it's time to navigate the buying process – our <a href="/guides/2019/06/17/urbans-first-home-buyer-guide">First Home Buyer Guide</a> outlines this in detail. 
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Tips for buying off-the-plan with confidence

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As the Friday climate strike comes around, it’s a pivotal time to take a look at our own respective home environments and ask the question, “Is my home contributing to the problem?”

Australia produces approximately <a href="https://blogs.nelson.wisc.edu/es112-302-3/waste/">400 kilos of waste annually</a>, which is one of the highest waste per capita rates in the world – so chances are, you’re not the only one with a not-so-eco-friendly home. However, if the world is to reach <a href="/news/oceania-maintains-top-rank-in-the-global-real-estate-sustainability-benchmark-for-2019">near net-zero by 2050</a>, it’s crucial that we look at our homes, the lifecycle of materials and how our houses are built.

While it may seem daunting to completely overhaul your home, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2010/may/10/lifestyle-change-environmental-impact">studies have shown</a> that even small changes can make a significant difference and save the planet tonnes of emissions per year.

Here’s a guide to help reduce your environmental impact, ranging from low-cost ideas to larger investments in sustainability:

<h2>LOW COST</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/taylor-friehl-l4vur2o8ysi-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Taylor Friehl"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/taylor-friehl-l4vur2o8ysi-unsplash.jpg?itok=_JXusom5" title="Credit: Taylor Friehl" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Taylor Friehl</figcaption></figure>#1 ENERGY EFFICIENT LIGHT BULBS

By using Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) and Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) you can save up to <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/save-electricity-and-fuel/lighting-choices-save-you-money/how-energy-efficient-light">25% - 80% less energy</a> than regular bulbs. These light bulbs are also great because they last 2-25 times longer, meaning less cost.

#2 CREATE A COMPOST BIN

According to food-waste recovery organisation, Oz Harvest, over <a href="https://www.ozharvest.org/what-we-do/environment-facts/">5 million tonnes</a> of food ends up in landfills every year, which is enough to fill 9,000 Olympic-sized swimming pools. Instead, it can be a good idea to plan out your meals to avoid waste and freeze any perishables that you don't anticipate to eat before they spoil. For food scraps, creating a compost bin is an easy and more environmentally conscious way of dealing with food waste. 

#3 REMEMBER TO RECYCLE

For the same amount of energy that it takes to produce one can from virgin materials, 20 cans can be created through recycled materials; while recycling one tonne of plastic can save 16 barrels of oil. When you consider the energy expenditure it takes to produce a disposable item, it makes a lot more sense to make a little extra effort to recycle it.

#4 USE ENVIRONMENTALLY-CONSCIOUS CLEANING PRODUCTS

Many cleaning products on the market contain harmful ingredients such as ammonia, ethylene glycol monobutyl acetate, sodium hypochlorite and/or trisodium phosphate, which all emit toxic VOCs when released into the air. Today, there is a wide range of cleaning products on the market which contain all-natural ingredients and achieve the same results.

#5 BUY RECYCLED FURNITURE

Every 5 seconds a new IKEA bookshelf is purchased somewhere in the world, which seems like a shocking statistic given how many can be found in op shops or organic hard rubbish collection – in perfect condition. By purchasing and recycling furniture, you are helping to eliminate the <a href="https://www.samedayrubbishremoval.com.au/War-On-Waste-Statistics.php">85% of 'hard-rubbish' furniture</a> that ends up in the landfill.

#6 TURN OFF LIGHTS + UNPLUG ELECTRONICS

While the idea of unplugging appliances to save energy <a href="https://www.nopec.org/blognewsroom/blog/top-5-energy-myths/">has been debunked</a> (as it actually uses more energy to repower the appliance when you turn it on again), hand-held device chargers including smartphones, cameras and laptops will continue to extract power even when the device is fully charged. It's a good idea to regularly check your plugs the same way you would with light switches to ensure that no energy within your home is being wasted.

#7 RUN A FULL, COLD LOAD OF WASHING

Did you know that running a load on a cold wash as opposed to hot can reduce the energy expenditure <a href="https://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/You-and-your-home/Save-energy/Appliances/Washing-machines">by up to 80%</a>? You can also save energy by ensuring your load is full before every cycle and handwashing items that you need immediately.

#8 OPT FOR REUSABLE LUNCH WRAP + CONTAINERS

There are so many great alternatives to cling film and takeaway coffee cups on the market right now. From beeswax lunch wrap to glass Tupperware containers and 'Keep Cups', reducing plastic and single-use food container use has just got a whole lot easier.

#9 AIR DRY CLOTHING

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/es_appliance_energy_use_pie_graph_8_22_14-small.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: U.S. EPA "><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="433" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/es_appliance_energy_use_pie_graph_8_22_14-small.jpg?itok=VhRRHmFp" title="Credit: U.S. EPA " width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: U.S. EPA</figcaption></figure>According to U.S. EPA, clothes dryers use approximately 1/3 of the household energy consumption – a rate which comes as no surprise given that a dryer uses energy to heat and to spin rapidly. Line-drying your clothes not only saves energy but it also saves money and risk of clothing shrinkage.

#10 PLANT YOUR OWN HERBS

When you consider the cost and energy expense to commercially grow a parsley plant, ship it to the supermarket, and transport it home – the fuel and production costs greatly outweigh the cost and energy to grow your own. Instead, pick up a few herb plants from your local garden centre, and create a garden bed or plant them in pots on your kitchen window sill. 

#11 AVOID MICROWAVE USE

A recent study by The University of Manchester found that microwave usage across the EU emits as much carbon dioxide as <a href="https://www.manchester.ac.uk/discover/news/microwaves-could-be-as-bad-for-the-environment-as-cars-suggests-new-research/">nearly 7 million cars</a>, which is equivalent to 7.7 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. 

#12 INSTALL LOW-FLOW SHOWERHEADS

Data shows that low-flow showerheads can save up to 160,000L of water daily for a household of four. 

<h2>MID-RANGE COST</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/naomi-hebert-mp0bgas_d1c-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Naomi Hebert"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/naomi-hebert-mp0bgas_d1c-unsplash.jpg?itok=rda2hZe6" title="Credit: Naomi Hebert" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Naomi Hebert</figcaption></figure>#13 CHANGE APPLIANCES

While it may seem wasteful to purchase a new appliance while you have an older one which runs fine, however buying a more energy-efficient model will actually be more beneficial to the planet (and your bank balance) on a day to day basis. 

#14 INCREASE YOUR INSULATION

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-19_at_1.49.48_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Steele Associates"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="258" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-19_at_1.49.48_pm.png?itok=9NGGPTH7" title="Credit: Steele Associates" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Steele Associates</figcaption></figure>According to Energy Saving Trust, installing solid wall insulation could save two tonnes of CO2 per year. Many homes across Australia would have been fit with the minimum insulation requirement, however, <a href="/news/oliver-steele-of-steele-associates-discusses-australian-building-codes-apartment-design">Passivhaus design suggests</a> in order to maintain better thermal performance, insulation should be installed underfloor, in walls and ceiling, and contain a higher R-value than the minimum standard. 

#15 DOUBLE GLAZE JOINERY

The same way insulation works, double and triple glazing works to keep a balanced internal temperature and avoids heat loss or influx – depending on the season. This saves on additional heating costs and energy use. 

#16 OPT FOR WATER-BASED PAINTS

Many paints contain high VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) which are also found in many building materials such as flooring, benchtops, curtains, furniture and more. Opting for water-based low VOC containing paints is better for both your health and the environment. 

#17 UPGRADE YOUR TOILET

In most households, a toilet will use almost 30% of the indoor water usage. In order to reduce this significantly, the EPA suggests upgrading older toilet models to the EPA certified WaterSense model. 

<h2>WORTHWHILE INVESTMENT</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/american-public-power-association-xgazzylzn18-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: American Public Power Association"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/american-public-power-association-xgazzylzn18-unsplash.jpg?itok=1D4yZCOA" title="Credit: American Public Power Association" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: American Public Power Association</figcaption></figure>#18 SOLAR PANELS

Whether you install one solar panel or cover your entire house in solar panels and even <a href="/news/spotlight-on-sustainable-the-general-melbourne">use them as balustrades</a>, the energy and cost savings will greatly outweigh the upfront investment cost of installing them in the long run. If you're hesitant about installing solar panels due to potentially selling your home in the near future, solar power is proven to add value to your home, the same way a swimming pool does.

<blockquote>
"Since solar power is viewed so positively by most of the Australian public, it follows that this can be a selling point for the home. Research indicates that the more solar panels there are on the roof, the higher the value of the home – with an estimated increase of almost $6000 dollars per kilowatt of solar power. This indicates a rise of over $29,000 in the retail value of the home for a 5kW installation."
</blockquote>

Momentum Energy

#19 RETROFITTING

Retrofitting both old and modern homes can be a great way to <a href="/news/upcycling-australia-why-demolish-when-you-can-re-polish">raise the environmental rating of your home</a>. Consider having an environmental consultant inspect your home to look for areas which are the least energy-efficient and could require an upgrade.

These could include:

<ul>
<li>Replacing old single-glazed windows</li>
	<li>Fill any gaps to prevent leaks and draughts</li>
	<li>Replace any materials which emit high VOCs with more <a href="/news/fast-track-your-developments-sustainability-credentials-by-opting-for-certified-building-materials">natural, low VOC, certified products</a>
</li>
	<li>Make upgrades to appliances, water heater, air conditioning, etc.</li>
</ul>
#20 INVEST IN AN HRV SYSTEM

Heat Recovery Ventilation systems (also known as HRV) work by pumping fresh air into living areas while extracting air from kitchens and bathrooms. This ensures that the air circulation around the home is clean and fresh. It also keeps the heat in during the winter, and the heat out during the summer. 
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20 simple changes around the home to reduce your environmental impact

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When purchasing an off-the-plan apartment, one of the first, most important things you can do (beside researching the developer), is to ask to see a comprehensive building material list. Undertaking proper research as to what is being used to construct your future home, will help you make an informed choice about whether the property meets health and wellbeing standards, as well as your lifestyle requirements.

We’ve compiled a guide to help you choose the best flooring, based on factors such as health and safety (including toxicity levels); green/eco value and lifecycle; look and aesthetic; durability and financial value.

<h2>ENGINEERED TIMBER</h2>

What is engineered wood?

Engineered wood can be produced using a wide variety of materials, but the structure is often compared to the wood composition of plywood – slices of wood bonded together using glue. It’s a good idea to look out for a high-quality pure wood composition such as Oak, which has been bonded using low VOC adhesives, rather than a product which comprises of a combination of fibreglass/particle board with a veneer of high-quality wood.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_3.26.29_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Engineered wood. Credit: Flooring Supplies"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="618" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_3.26.29_pm.png?itok=bWeNGDVc" title="Engineered wood. Credit: Flooring Supplies" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Engineered wood. Credit: <a href="https://www.flooringsupplies.co.uk/realwoodflooring/engineeredwoodflooring/10253/natura_oak_ironbark_driftwood_engineered_wood_flooring">Flooring Supplies</a></figcaption></figure>Pros

<ul>
<li>Easy to install</li>
	<li>Improves resale value</li>
	<li>Ability to re-sand</li>
	<li>Underfloor-heating compatible</li>
	<li>Can be water-resistant</li>
	<li>Ability to source formaldehyde-free/low Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) products</li>
	<li>Looks organic and natural</li>
	<li>Sustainable production</li>
	<li>Relatively cost-effective</li>
	<li>Available in a range of colour stains, wood species and patterns</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>Some engineered timber is poorly made with composite materials</li>
	<li>Risk of off-gassing if purchasing a low-cost replica</li>
	<li>Will show scratches/dents from high heels, pet claws and moving furniture</li>
	<li>Will fade over time</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>SOLID WOOD</h2>

Solid wood is naturally harvested timber floorboards, which are glued or nailed onto a flooring underlay. This is arguably the healthiest flooring option for the home.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_3.32.09_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Solid timber floorboards. Credit: Sutton Timber"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="369" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_3.32.09_pm.png?itok=CE92ybf_" title="Solid timber floorboards. Credit: Sutton Timber" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Solid timber floorboards. Credit: <a href="https://www.suttontimber.co.uk/products/flooring/solid/oak/">Sutton Timber</a></figcaption></figure>Pros

<ul>
<li>Most natural option</li>
	<li>Ability to opt for recycled wood which is highly sustainable</li>
	<li>Wood breathes providing the home with good ventilation</li>
	<li>Less rigid than concrete and tiles, so nicer to walk on</li>
	<li>One of the healthiest options</li>
	<li>Can be nailed down (meaning no Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) from adhesives)</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>Risk of Bora infiltration</li>
	<li>Expensive</li>
	<li>Can rot if not properly treated, and exposed to moisture</li>
	<li>Loud</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>CARPET</h2>

Available in a wide range of products including wool, mixed fibre, sisal, shag pile, Berber and more.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/yann-maignan-rriazfkjpmo-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Carpet flooring. Credit: Yann Maignan"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/yann-maignan-rriazfkjpmo-unsplash.jpg?itok=U11pdI6h" title="Carpet flooring. Credit: Yann Maignan" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Carpet flooring. Credit: Yann Maignan</figcaption></figure>Pros

<ul>
<li>100% wool carpet provides warmth </li>
	<li>The most comfortable flooring to walk on</li>
	<li>Acts as a sound barrier</li>
	<li>Relatively cost-effective</li>
	<li>Large range of styles, fabrics and colours to choose from</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>Can retain stains and odours </li>
	<li>A breeding ground for dust mites</li>
	<li>Can require steam cleaning/professional cleaning</li>
	<li>Patterns and styles can date quickly</li>
	<li>Susceptible to allergens</li>
	<li>Can be known to off-gas toxins</li>
	<li>Will need to be replaced quicker than any other type of floor covering</li>
	<li>Carpet wear and tear is often more obvious than wood</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>TILES</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/jason-briscoe-aql-j19ocwe-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Tile flooring. Credit: Jason Briscoe"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jason-briscoe-aql-j19ocwe-unsplash.jpg?itok=ljVvKw5q" title="Tile flooring. Credit: Jason Briscoe" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Tile flooring. Credit: Jason Briscoe</figcaption></figure>Pros 

<ul>
<li>Ability to choose from a wider range of styles and colours</li>
	<li>They don't possess chemically active properties (meaning less likely to grow bacteria or spread viruses etc.)</li>
	<li>Durable</li>
	<li>High/low-temperature resistant</li>
	<li>Made from natural materials</li>
	<li>Water and stain-resistant</li>
	<li>Easy maintenance</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>More susceptible to mould in wet areas</li>
	<li>Tiles adapt to the weather, meaning they can become very cold in winter months</li>
	<li>If a tile cracks it can be difficult to replace</li>
	<li>Tiles can be slippery to walk on</li>
</ul>
Tip: Use cement-based grouting to avoid the emission of harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

<hr>
<h2>CONCRETE</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/room-fzrn8fhqpp8-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Concrete flooring. Credit: Unsplash"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/room-fzrn8fhqpp8-unsplash.jpg?itok=GdliIfS3" title="Concrete flooring. Credit: Unsplash" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Concrete flooring. Credit: Unsplash</figcaption></figure>Pros

<ul>
<li>No harmful Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)</li>
	<li>Cost-effective</li>
	<li>Easy maintenance</li>
	<li>Concrete will last the longest</li>
	<li>Many design and texture options</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>Arguably tough on ankle joints</li>
	<li>Concrete doesn't retain heat very well</li>
	<li>They can be loud</li>
	<li>Not very environmentally friendly to produce</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>PLYWOOD/CORK/MDF/PARTICLEBOARD</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_4.59.54_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Particleboard flooring. Credit: Revolution Wood Panels"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="696" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-02_at_4.59.54_pm.png?itok=j3SeKvzE" title="Particleboard flooring. Credit: Revolution Wood Panels" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Particleboard flooring. Credit: <a href="https://revolutionwoodpanels.com.au/products/particleboard-particleboard-flooring">Revolution Wood Panels</a></figcaption></figure>Pros

<ul>
<li>Very cost-effective</li>
	<li>Flexible and easy to change</li>
</ul>
Cons

<ul>
<li>Often bonded with glues containing high Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde</li>
	<li>Can splinter easily</li>
	<li>Needs revarnishing often</li>
	<li>Aesthetically not as appealing as hardwood floorboards</li>
	<li>Prone to water damage</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>UNDERSTANDING THE LINGO</h2>

What kinds of adhesives and finishing products are found in flooring?

<ul>
<li>Urea-formaldehyde resins (UF)</li>
	<li>Phenol formaldehyde resins (PF)</li>
	<li>Melamine-formaldehyde resins (MF)</li>
	<li>Soy-based glues</li>
	<li>Polyurethane (PU)</li>
</ul>
Soy-based glues and water-based polyurethanes have been noted as some of the better adhesives/varnishes. Formaldehyde should always be avoided.

What to look out for:

<ul>
<li>Forest Stewardship Council certification (FSC)</li>
	<li>The Green Building Council Australia approved
	<ul>
<li>Total VOC &lt; 0.5 mg/m2/hr</li>
		<li>4-Phenylcyclohexene &lt; 0.05 mg/m2/hr</li>
	</ul>
</li>
	<li>A decent warranty (20+ years is ideal)</li>
	<li>Ultra-low/Zero VOC emissions that meet <a href="https://www.cetec.com.au/services/voc-product-rating-schemes">E1 international standards</a>
</li>
	<li>Have the wood factory-finished rather than on-site</li>
	<li>Green Seal-11 certification</li>
</ul>
<hr>
<h2>WHAT TO AVOID</h2>

Vinyl

Vinyl is a non-renewable material derived from petroleum-based chemicals including PVC – which releases highly toxic chemical during manufacturing. Vinyl is notorious for off-gassing due to a concoction of harmful chemicals, such as phthalates, which can emit gas for years after installation. Some older vinyl is even worse, as many have an asbestos backing which makes removal of the vinyl extremely unsafe.

Laminate

Similar to vinyl flooring, Laminate is known to contain formaldehyde – a naturally occurring yet toxic chemical found in many adhesives. Formaldehyde has been found to cause a number of health complications over an extended period of toxic emission exposure. Both vinyl and laminate floorings are also non-biodegradable and melamine-formaldehyde resin cannot break down at the end of the product lifecycle.
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