The idea of a low-maintenance forever home located close to the city were the two driving factors behind a recent purchaser’s journey at Murcia, the under-construction East Brisbane apartment development by Sarazin.

Last year, Lois and her husband purchased a two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room (MPR) apartment in the new building, which is being constructed by Hutchinson Builders and is on track for completion in late-2027.

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The couple’s number one priority was to remain within easy commuting distance of the city for work. Murcia is positioned alongside the new Cross River Rail, with Woolloongabba Station just 300 metres from the front door.

They are currently living in their Annerley unit, which they have owned for several years, after recently moving out of their inner-city apartment, located on the very same street as Murcia.

“We had watched the development for a long time, and when construction activity began, that’s when we felt confident to buy,” Lois said.

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The timing also made sense. By moving back into their Annerley unit, they are able to save money ahead of settlement, while looking forward to returning closer to the city once Murcia is complete.

“We see Murcia as a forever home, as opposed to an investment, or something we need to appreciate massively in value and move on from in a few years,” Lois said.

“We secured an apartment large enough to grow a family, so we’re expecting to call Murcia home for a very long time.”

The couple plan to grow their family, but without the added maintenance demands of owning a standalone house further from the city. Working with Sarazin and architect HAL, they were able to slightly tweak the floorplan, converting the two-bedroom plus MPR layout into a functional three-bedroom apartment.

An added bonus was the recently revised communal space plans, which now incorporate a dedicated working-from-home area, complete with work pods, and shared desks.

“It means the third bedroom doesn’t have to become a part-time office and part-time bedroom,” Lois said, adding that residents have the benefit of working from home without actually being inside their apartment.

The rooftop wellness amenity was another standout compared to living in an established complex or a house. A signature feature of Sarazin developments, the rooftop will include a full gym, hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room and sauna, and a hotel-style pool with cabanas.

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Buyer journeys can vary significantly, from purchasing in the established market to buying new, or choosing between houses and apartments. Lois said they knew immediately that buying off the plan was right for them.

“We wanted something new, with less maintenance, and we weren’t quite ready to make the full financial leap straight away. The timing and deposit structure gave us the flexibility we needed.”

Designed by HAL Architects and inspired by the Spanish city of Murcia, the development takes a Mediterranean-influenced approach to architecture and landscaping, with a strong emphasis on shared spaces.

“The design feels considered, the amenities support how we actually live, and the location keeps us connected to the city without feeling right in the middle of it.”

Murcia is Sarazin’s second development in the area, following the completion of Silk One just up the road in 2022. They have several more projects coming to market in Woolloongabba ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

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Joel Robinson

Close to the city, built for the future: Inside a growing family’s move to Murcia in East Brisbane

With demand for high-quality family homes in the inner west continuing to rise, young families are increasingly turning to new forms of multi-generational living.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-ashbury-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a>, Nikki Pham and Danny Lai are among the growing number of residents choosing the precinct for its space, design integrity and strong sense of community.

For Nikki and Danny, purchasing a three-storey terrace was about securing a long-term home for their young family. Having spent most of their lives in the inner west, they first discovered the project while it was under construction.

“We walked past and had a look during the build and instantly felt the vibe. It had everything we were looking for,” said Nikki.

<img alt="Ashbury" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4b291ce7-8a6f-4d50-bcd5-c491109d572e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ashburry_Buyers_7_JAN_26_-038.jpg?VersionId=bcHDxXSwQbIbkkgO0YddUb_Ye5MlTLTB" />

A return to green, open spaces was a major drawcard after living closer to the CBD.

“We like going for walks, and here it feels like a mini oasis while still being central to everything we need,” she said.&nbsp;

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Inside, the couple were immediately drawn to the craftsmanship.&nbsp;

“I love the Calacatta marble and timber detailing. If I’d designed it myself, these are exactly the fittings and fixtures I would have picked,” Nikki said. “There’s actually very little I’d change.

“We’ve found the craftsmanship has been great and I believe the beautiful arches and curves, including on our stunning staircase, are all made by hand.”

Since moving in with their seven-month-old baby in mid-August, the family has been making the most of the amenities, especially the pool.&nbsp;

“We love using the shallow area with the baby. It’s great for kids, and the sunbeds are perfect when it’s not too hot,” Danny said.

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The home features kitchen, living and dining areas on the ground floor with courtyard access to the pool, two bedrooms and a study on the middle level, and a master suite on the top floor. The proximity to local parks, childcare, and schools also made it an easy choice.

Nikki has noticed the project is sparking interest from the extended families of new residents.&nbsp;

“Several of our neighbour’s parents have now bought here too. It’s ideal for multi-generational living because everyone has their own space but you’re still close by.”

<h2>A growing trend in the inner west</h2>

Aras Labutis, Head of Urban Transformations at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>, said families like Nikki and Danny’s reflect a broader shift.

“Ashbury Terraces was designed for families at different life stages who want to stay connected to the inner west, including multi-generational households," Labutis said.

"Some terraces even include lifts, which make them ideal for older residents who want to remain independent while living close to children or grandchildren."

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Recent ABS data shows around one in five Australian households is now multigenerational, following a 22 per cent rise in the five years to 2021.

“The demand we’re seeing aligns with broader national data showing ongoing growth in multi-generational living as families look for practical, long-term solutions in well-connected suburbs.”

<h2>Milton Estate launches as the precinct’s next chapter</h2>

Following this strong response, Coronation is now registering expressions of interest for Milton Estate, the next evolution of the precinct. Strong sales and sustained interest in family-focused inner west homes have underpinned the decision to bring this next stage to market sooner than anticipated.&nbsp;

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The new collection continues the same design principles, quality materials, heritage sensitivity and family-focused layouts, and its launch reflects demand from both local buyers and extended families who want to remain part of the growing community at Ashbury Terraces.

<h2>A new neighbourhood taking shape</h2>

Designed by award-winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, and brought to life with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/360-degrees-landscape">360 Degrees</a>, Ashbury Terraces comprises 136 residences across five low-rise buildings, supported by amenities including a pool, gym and landscaped communal spaces.

For Nikki and Danny, it already feels like a place to grow for years to come.

“We’ve found great childcare nearby, and Ashbury Primary and Trinity Grammar are within easy reach. There are other excellent public and private school options too,” Nikki said.

“It’s hard to find something like this in the Inner West,” she added. “It’s certainly unique in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury</a>. We’ve got everything we need here and it already feels like home.”

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Staff Writer

Ashbury Terraces proves a perfect fit for growing families and multi-generational living

When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

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Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

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The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

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Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

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Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

When Antoinette Chan and her architect husband, Peter began casually searching for an investment property, they weren’t expecting it to evolve into a life-changing family decision.

But one visit to the display suite of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-1-11-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO</a> development in Crows Nest changed everything, and sparked a remarkable story of three generations choosing to live side by side in one of the suburb's most architecturally-striking new developments.

Antoinette, her mother Janet Khoo, and her sister, who is currently living in Singapore, each purchased an apartment in the same building, creating a rare and meaningful multi-generational living arrangement underpinned by modern design, community values, and premium convenience.

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“It wasn’t planned,” says Antoinette, who purchased a three-bedroom garden apartment with her husband and teenage daughter. “Peter came across KOYO and encouraged me to visit because he had a lot of respect for Abadeen’s previous work. As soon as we saw it, we knew it wasn’t just an investment, this was a home.”

Shortly after, Antoinette suggested her mother, Janet Khoo, take a look at the same development. A long-time inner-city resident who had recently sold her property in The Rocks, Janet had experienced some health setbacks and was contemplating a move closer to her daughter.

“I walked into the display apartment, and it just felt right,” says Janet. “I didn’t look anywhere else. The space, the simplicity of the design, the light, everything gave me a sense of peace. It’s a new beginning, but it also feels like home.”

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In a stroke of serendipity, Janet selected the two-bedroom apartment next door to her daughter, completely unaware of Antoinette’s purchase. Around the same time, Antoinette’s sister, who resides in Singapore, viewed the property via a virtual tour and chose to buy the apartment directly above Janet’s.

“We were all drawn to KOYO individually, and it just happened that our homes ended up vertically stacked, ground, first, and second floor,” Antoinette laughs. “It was a coincidence, but also a sign. This is where we’re meant to be.”

Designed by celebrated architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, KOYO delivered on all fronts for the Chan-Khoo family.

“Our garden apartment gives us the feel of a standalone home but with none of the maintenance,” says Antoinette. “All three bedrooms open onto a generous private garden, which is perfect for our dog Archie, and for entertaining. The open-plan layout and high ceilings make it feel airy, calm and luxurious.”

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For Janet, security and accessibility were top priorities, and KOYO offered the ideal balance.

“At my age, I didn’t want to be climbing stairs,” she explains. “The first-floor apartment opens directly to the garden, and the building is small, which gives it a more personal, village-like feel. Yet I’m just steps away from my daughter and granddaughter. That gives me so much peace of mind.”

The family also appreciated the thoughtful amenities that avoided the excesses of some larger developments.

“We didn’t want a complex with too many facilities we wouldn’t use,” explains Antoinette. “KOYO has everything we need, generous storage, secure parking, beautifully landscaped walkways, and a stunning rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities that feels serene rather than busy.”

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The location was another critical factor in the family’s decision. Though they had always lived closer to Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Antoinette says the transformation of Crows Nest was a revelation.

“When we returned from living overseas, we discovered Crows Nest had become this vibrant, walkable hub,” she says. “We love being able to stroll to cafés, restaurants, and shops on Willoughby Road. The new Metro makes the commute into the CBD effortless, and our daughter can walk to her school, it’s just next door."

Janet agree. “I was worried about giving up my inner-city lifestyle, but I’ve fallen in love with this area. It has everything I need, supermarkets, quiet streets, friendly faces, and it’s all a short walk away. I feel safe, independent, and connected.”

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While design and location were important, the family also credits their decision to Abadeen’s reputation and responsiveness. With decades of experience delivering high-quality residential projects, Abadeen’s track record helped build trust during a volatile market period.

“The waiting game was tough, especially after selling my old apartment,” says Janet. “But the Abadeen team kept me updated every step of the way. They were professional, courteous, and transparent.”

Antoinette said Peter works in property and had already heard of Abadeen. "The quality of their work really impressed us, and as the project neared completion, they went above and beyond to keep us informed and supported. That level of communication is rare.”

Only a handful of three-bedroom residences remain for sale, priced from $3.5 million.

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Three generations, one address: How a family found sanctuary and connection at Abadeen's KOYO in Crows Nest

Local Wahroonga residents Peter and Corinne Collins knew they didn’t want to live anywhere else but the suburb they’ve called home for several decades.

However, limited apartment supply in the area had prevented them from downsizing from their large five-bedroom family home—with 38 stairs, no less—even though the kids had “flown the nest a long time ago.”

“We’ve always loved Wahroonga—the village feel, the bushland surrounds, and being close to everything we need,” Corinne recently told me.

“While we weren’t in a hurry to downsize, it was looking increasingly likely we’d have to leave the area to find something more suitable for our later years.”

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Now in their mid-70s, it was almost serendipitous that developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a> received council approval to proceed with the multi-stage masterplan, <a>The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a>, on a large disused 1.5-hectare site that is adjacent to the Sydney Adventist Hospital.

“We’d known something was going to be developed on that land when it started appearing in the press a few years ago,” Corinne said.

Even before purchasing in Stage One—<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a>—Corinne and Peter had already mentally committed. By the time they queued up at 8 am on launch day in March 2024, they were ready. They secured a three-bedroom, top-floor apartment—the largest non-ground-floor residence available.

“One of the things we couldn’t believe was the aspect from the top floor,” Corinne recalled. “We weren’t expecting to have such a beautiful view over the tree canopy in a low-rise building.”

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The bushland setting and extensive network of walking tracks on their doorstep were also major drawcards for the active couple. The broader location was another plus—close to local shops and just a short walk to medical services, which was an important consideration as they planned for the future.

“Being able to walk everywhere—including to the hospital if we need to—really gave us peace of mind,” says Corinne.

The couple had downsized before, albeit to a three-level home, but this time they wanted to “truly downsize.”

“We didn’t want to be looking after a big block and mowing lawns anymore,” Corinne laughs.

“We wanted something new, low-maintenance, and easy to lock up and leave when we travel.”

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She admitted buying off the plan was a bit of a “leap of faith,” but said they felt confident thanks to Capital Corporation’s reputation, and the fact their deposit was held safely in a trust account—a key reassurance for off-the-plan buyers, knowing the developer can’t access those funds.

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate, designed by Group GSA with interiors by Coco Republic, will comprise 128 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments across three low-rise buildings.

Floor-to-ceiling glass windows and doors provide a strong connection to the outdoors, whether via balconies or private garden courtyards. One- and two-bedroom apartments come with one parking space, while three-bedroom apartments have two.

Residents will also enjoy a range of on-site amenities, including a private, pet-friendly “Green Spine” with exercise and relaxation zones, a BBQ pavilion, a dog wash bay, and a communal lounge with a boardroom-style table and kitchenette—ideal for remote work or social gatherings.

Capital Corporation is expected to announce a builder shortly, with construction to begin later this year. Completion is forecast for mid-2027.

Corinne took part in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/from-broadbeach-to-main-beach-why-local-downsizers-are-making-the-move-to-drew-group-s-lagoon-main-beach">Apartments.com.au's Buyer Q&amp;A series</a>, a series that focuses on the driving factors behind buying off the plan property in Australia.

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Even before purchasing in Stage One—The Residences at Wahroonga Estate—Corinne and Peter had already mentally committed

From family home to bushland retreat: Why Peter and Corinne chose The Residences at Wahroonga Estate

When Sarah and her family decided to invest in Melbou​rne property, OSK Pr​operty’s <a>Melb​ourne Square</a> stood out almost immediately.

Based overseas, Sarah was looking for a long-term foothold in the city while also supporting her child studying in Melbourne.

“After looking at rental costs versus buying, it became clear that purchasing was a smarter financial decision,” Sarah says. “We also saw strong investment potential in the <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> area.”

Sarah explored a number of new projects before ultimately choosing <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-vic-3006">Melbourne Square</a>. From the first viewing to making the decision, the process took just three days.

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“The location, the wide views, and the resident facilities really set it apart,” she says.

“The outdoor pools on Level 8 are a highlight, and the sky pool and spa on Level 54 are incredible,” Sarah notes. “As a pianist, I also really appreciate the grand piano in the music room - it’s quite unique.”

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“There’s a lot of variety [in the amenity], and everything feels thoughtfully designed. We’ve been able to host friends in the private dining rooms and enjoy movie nights - it really feels like an extension of our home.”

Residents have access to private dining rooms, a lounge, a cinema, a sun terrace, a music room, ga ym and yoga studio, gardens, a golf simulator, and more.&nbsp;

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Day-to-day convenience was also important.

“Having a full-line Woolworths right downstairs is a huge benefit, and the Pacific Asian grocery store makes picking up snacks and ingredients easy,” Sarah says.

A double-storey Woolworths, a Pacific Asian grocery, and an on-site childcare centre further enhance daily convenience, supporting Melbourne Square’s position as a self-contained vertical community.

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While the amenity and doorstep were the key drivers in the purchase, the Southbank location sealed the deal.

“We liked that it feels more spacious and quiet compared to the city centre, yet still offers great public transport links,” she says.

Located at 93–119 Kavanagh Street, Melbourne Square has reshaped Southbank with one of its largest mixed-use precincts. Designed by <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> and developed by <a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>, the project delivers extensive resident amenities across 14,000 sqm of landscaped public park and green spaces.

A limited collection of completed apartments remains, ready for immediate move-in.

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While the amenity and doorstep were the key drivers in the purchase, the Southbank location sealed the deal

Overseas buyer shares why she chose Melbourne Square in Southbank: Urban Buyer Q&A

Young first home buyer Elycia didn’t expect to become a property investor when she purchased an off the plan townhouse at Development Victoria’s <a href="/new-townhouses/luma-sunshine-north-247-st-albans-road-sunshine-north-vic-3020">LUMA</a> masterplanned community in <a href="/developments/sunshine-north-vic-3020">Sunshine North</a> several years ago.

“I’d been saving for a while, and it felt like a good time to get into the market,” Elycia said of her purchase.

When she visited the display suite, she could immediately see herself living there, thanks to the variety of thoughtfully designed floorplans.

“I fell in love with how the floorplans were laid out — especially how the living room was positioned quietly away from the kitchen and dining area,” she said.

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Having watched her parents build a home from scratch, Elycia was grateful for a simpler path.

“I wanted something with as few choices as possible. Just pick a colour scheme and go,” she said. “You didn’t have to pick bricks, carpet, or underlay — it was all done.”

She selected the light colour scheme and opted for a few upgrades like a premium benchtop, but kept most fixtures standard.

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While COVID lockdowns delayed the delivery of her three-bedroom home near Sunshine Station, Elycia, a teacher, said <a href="/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> was transparent throughout the process.

The fact that Development Victoria is operated by the Victorian Government was a big reason I felt confident buying from them,” she said, adding that she was pleased with their clear communication around the delays, which were widely felt across the building industry.

“It felt slow at times, but once I could physically see the building taking shape, it all started to feel real.”

Importantly, the original purchase price remained unchanged — something Elycia appreciated.

“There weren’t any extra costs passed on to us. I’d paid my deposit, and the balance stayed the same," she said.

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Elycia had planned to move in and transfer schools once the build was complete in 2025. But life — and opportunity — had other ideas.

“On settlement, I stayed in the home for one night just to take it all in — to feel a sense of accomplishment for doing this by myself,” she said. “It’s now for someone else to enjoy.”

Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of the LUMA masterplan, located between Ginifer and Albion train stations.

The townhouses vary in configuration and design, ranging from one to four bedrooms, and are designed to be all-electric, featuring solar PV, double glazing, and a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating.

A new public park and future links to the broader Sunshine Precinct — set to become a major employment and infrastructure hub — positions LUMA residents to take full advantage of being in a long-term growth corridor with increasing appeal for a wide range of buyers.

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First home buyer turned investor: How young teacher Elycia bought her home at LUMA in Sunshine North

Searching for your first home can often be a lengthy process — but not for Melburnian James Rothwell, who wasn’t even actively looking when he stumbled across the sales office for <a href="/new-townhouses/olio-officer-corner-of-bridge-road-and-coxon-street-officer-vic-3809">Olio Officer</a>, a new masterplanned community by <a href="/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> in Melbourne’s South East Growth Corridor.

“There wasn’t really much of a thought process,” James recalled. “I just happened to walk past the display office on my way home from work one day.”

He said he wasn’t armed with a checklist or detailed questions — his curiosity was simply piqued by the location, close to where he grew up.

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“I wasn’t going in with a checklist. It wasn’t even a fact-finding mission. I was probably one of the least likely people to walk in and end up buying. But once I learned more about Olio, it all just started to make sense.”

James ended up purchasing a three-bedroom home early in the first stage of the development, well before construction was complete.

“I’ve always preferred new builds over older homes,” he said, adding that the financial structure of buying off the plan suited his situation and steady income.

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Once he decided he wanted to buy near his family home, James broadened his search and visited other masterplanned communities in the area.

However, it was the credibility of the Development Victoria brand that ultimately won him over.

“Knowing that Development Victoria was behind the project gave me a lot of confidence. It’s not just a one-off developer — they stand behind what they build and can’t disappear if something goes wrong.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=211732]

The location was another key factor. James works in Mulgrave, and the connectivity of <a href="/developments/officer-vic-3809">Officer</a> made the commute easy.

“It’s a straight drive down the Monash, or I can jump on a train at Officer Station — which is right across the road — and be in the city.”

James bought in 2021, when interest rates were at historic lows. While rates have since increased, he said buying off the plan gave him time to save during the construction period, making the transition manageable when it came time to settle.

“It was a chance encounter, but I’m glad I walked into the sales office that day. The home works perfectly for my lifestyle,” he said.

Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of Olio. Over 90 homes were completed in Stage One, which also includes a central neighbourhood park. Homes in Stage Two are now selling, with prices starting from under $500,000.

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From passing curiosity to first home buyer: James' journey to Olio Officer

For years, Michelle and Wade had cruised the Broadwater, often docking at the Main Beach Yacht Club and dreaming of a life closer to what they call their second home.

What started as a holiday habit quickly turned into something more permanent when they discovered <a href="/developers/drew-group">Drew Group</a>’s dual-tower apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/lagoon-main-beach-11-23-cronin-avenue-main-beach">Lagoon</a>, in <a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach</a>.

For Michelle and Wade, long-time Broadbeach locals and passionate boating enthusiasts, the decision to downsize wasn’t made overnight. But when the opportunity arose to call Lagoon home, it felt like everything fell perfectly into place.

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The couple recently secured a three-bedroom plus multipurpose room residence in the Sunrise Tower of Lagoon,&nbsp;with panoramic views and an enviable connection to the Broadwater lifestyle they adore.

“We live on our boat just as much as we live at home,” Michelle said.

“We were spending holidays at the yacht club just around the corner. It was during one of those stays we first came across Lagoon—started looking at the floorplans and just thought, ‘We can really do this.’”

`The couple live in a five-bedroom, two-level home in Broadbeach Waters, but Michelle was ready for a change. She couldn’t convince Wade when they first looked at Lagoon, but they came back a year later when the project began rising from the ground and they could see extensive progress in construction.

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“Once we saw it in real life, it all just clicked”, Michelle recalled.

For the couple, Main Beach and Lagoon offers everything they need.

“We feel like we’re not losing anything by downsizing, in both the space offered at Lagoon as well as the facilities like a lagoon style swimming pool and a top-tier gym.”

&nbsp;

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Their new home at Lagoon offers a low-maintenance, lock-and-leave lifestyle that supports both relaxation and activity. “When we’re home, I want to be on the boat, and not mowing lawns,” Wade said. “Lagoon gives us that freedom.”

They liked the peace and quiet of Main Beach compared to neighbouring suburbs, but also loved the fact it still has significant waterside amenities on The Spit and an increasingly thriving hospitality and retail precinct on Tedder Avenue and at Marina Mirage.

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One of the main drivers in purchasing off the plan was what friends and locals said about those behind the project.

“Everyone knows Hutchies as a builder,” Michelle said. “Drew Group was a new name to us, but everyone we’ve spoken to in the local community has nothing but praise for Jon Drew. Friends who know people in the industry spoke very highly of him and we value their opinion.”

Hutchinson Builders is approaching topping out of the two towers. Drew Group expects Lagoon residents to move in over the summer.

Michelle and Wade took part in Urban's Buyer Q&amp;A series which focuses on the driving factors behind buying off the plan property in Australia

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From Broadbeach to Main Beach: Why local downsizers are making the move to Drew Group’s Lagoon Main Beach

Ron Jackson has called Mosman Park home for the last 25 years, so when the rare opportunity arose to downsize into a brand new apartment on the boundary of Mosman Park in North Fremantle, he jumped at the chance.

He has lived just 500 metres from <a href="/new-apartments/serai-north-fremantle-21-mccabe-street-north-fremantle">Serai</a>, the new apartment development by <a href="/developments/perth-wa">Perth</a> developer <a href="/developers/megara">Megara</a>, since the late 1990s.

"I've walked past the site, and the industrial buildings that previously occupied it, hundreds of times over the last two decades," Ron says.

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Ron and his wife saw an ad in the local paper, so when the project was launched, they attended the opening day reveal.

"We were certainly among the early buyers in the development," Ron recalls, adding that they were impressed with everything Megara had put together.

“The architecture and proposed fit-out looked fantastic, even on paper,” Ron said.

"The area boasts beautiful river walks, world-class beaches on its doorstep, and views of the harbour where cruise ships dock."&nbsp;

The apartments facing south offer panoramic views of the river, with the apartments facing north enjoying views of the magnificent northern beach coastline to Cottesloe.&nbsp;

Ron and his wife secured a three-bedroom apartment on one of the higher levels of the eight-level structure.

"We'll be in a position where our balcony wraps around so we have views directly over the Swan River, Port Beach and Fremantle Harbour. The chances are, given the rarity of new apartments in <a href="/developments/north-fremantle-wa-6159">North Fremantle</a> and being located high on a hill, the views will likely never be built out."

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Serai has been a hit with locals given North Fremantle hasn't seen a new development for several years, and nothing of this quality.

The two architecturally-striking towers, currently under construction and slated for completion in Q1 2026, will comprise 86 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments and 11 luxury townhouses at the rear of the development. Serai also incorporates a host of impressive facilities which Ron says ticked all of the boxes.

“You name it, Serai has it,” Ron says of the development that will boast a heated swimming pool which will offer the most impressive views over the Swan, a gym with a yoga room and sauna, a fire-pit lounge, outdoor barbeque area, an outdoor cinema, a makers room, a whisky room and EV charging stations.

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The couple has a miniature schnauzer, so while a dog wash facility may seem minor compared to larger amenities like a pool or gym, it’s actually an important feature for some prospective buyers.

“It’s important to us that the building is pet-friendly, and the integrated dog wash facility tells us pets are welcomed in the building, and we likely won’t be the only ones with a dog.”

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The latest technology within the building was another tick, offering Ron and his wife an added layer of security. Easy access to Fremantle and Perth via two train stations and the availability of a number of private schools in the area is also another big draw card for prospective buyers.

“Everything is top of the range with CCTV and number plate recognition when parking. We are going to feel very secure in the building.”

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One of the most important parts of buying off the plan is to do full due diligence on the developer and its track record. Ron went to visit a building Megara completed a few years ago in Ardross.

"I actually lurked outside the building for an hour or so and caught a few residents coming and going from their apartment, so I got the chance to speak to them about their experience buying with Megara, but more importantly the quality of the building.&nbsp;

"Of the three or four owners I spoke to, everyone spoke highly of the apartment they bought, the quality of the construction, and the craftmanship of the interiors."

Ron believes the future resale value of the project should be solid because of the location, quality of the design, and the uniqueness of the project, a sentiment echoed by Megara Director Jamie Clarke.

"When completed, there will be almost nothing comparable to Serai, or anything under construction or even in planning currently. There won't be a lot of new stock that is competing within the immediate vicinity, and that's not lost on our buyers who know this is a rare opportunity," Jamie says.

Ron and his wife are one of many downsizers who are fuelling a large majority of the off the plan apartment market. Perth was the strongest capital city housing market in 2024, with house values increasing nearly 19 per cent.

Ron&nbsp;took part in Urban's Buyer Q&amp;A series which focuses on the driving factors behind buying off the plan property in Australia.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110291]

Ron believes the future resale value of the project should be solid because of the location, quality of the design, and the uniqueness of the project, a sentiment echoed by Megara Director Jamie Clarke.

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