<p>The COVID-induced boom changed the face of the off the plan apartment market in the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>Since the start of 2020 when various lockdowns were in place on both a state and federal level blocking those coming and going form Australia, the Gold Coast market has been one of the strongest property markets in the country.</p>

<p>As the country got back to normal and borders reopened, demand didn't wane. However, one of the biggest changes in the new development market is the type of apartments being developed in the <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>.</p>

<p>All but gone are the large skyscrapers, barring a few from Harry Triguboff's <a href="/developers/meriton">Meriton</a>. Now in vogue is half and full-floor apartments, catering to the local downsizer and affluent southern state dweller either looking for a tree change or a future retirement apartment on or near the beach.</p>

<p>The change in dwelling make-up has pushed first home buyers out of the market. The median price of a unit in the Gold Coast has also soared over the past few years. Now over $800,000, the median unit price is only just behind that of Sydney ($859,000).</p>

<p>The increase in prices, dwelling change, and quickfire increase in the interest rates, pushed first home buyers out of the market. Or so it seemed.</p>

<p>Data from MatterFact, the new data product from Apartments.com.au, shows a huge willing from first home buyers in 2024. A third of enquiry&nbsp;on Urban across the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> in 2024 has been from first home buyers. They've even out-enquired investors.</p>

<p>Across 2023 first home buyers made up 30 per cent of enquiry, and 2022 and 2021 it was less than 15 per cent.</p>

<p>While there's been a significant shift in apartment configurations on offer, there are still some opportunities for first home buyers, however&nbsp;they need to act fast in most circumstances.</p>

<p>With the cost of construction, and the low returns for one-bedroom apartments compared to three and four-bedroom apartments, developers just aren't creating a meaningful number of one bedrooms within their developments.</p>

<p>We've had a look at what Gold Coast apartment developments have options for first home buyers.</p>

<h2>What: Flourish Palm Beach</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;6-12 Sixth Avenue, Palm Beach QLD 4221</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Sherpa Property Group</h3>

<p>Prominent Gold Coast developer, <a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a>, is one of few developers championing affordability with their new collection of apartments.</p>

<p>They've created a new brand, Flourish, which will cater to a wide range of buyers, including first home buyers.</p>

<p>Their first installment of apartments under Flourish is <a href="/new-apartments/flourish-on-sixth-ave-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach">Flourish Palm Beach</a>, 94 apartments across a 13-level building with some of the entry-level unit prices in the $600,000's.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=296026]</p>

<p>Located at 6-12 Sixth Avenue, Flourish Palm Beach will still have all the bells and whistles of a modern development, with a resident pool, barbecue areas, and garden retreats as part of the building.</p>

<p>With just 10 one-bedroom apartments on offer, first home buyers will have to act fast to secure one.</p>

<h2>What: Ombre Robina</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;46 Scottsdale Drive, Robina QLD 4226</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Immerse Projects</h3>

<p><a href="/developers/immerse-projects">Immerse Projects</a> is also catering to a wide demographic at its <a href="/new-apartments/ombre-robina-46-scottsdale-drive-robina">Ombré Robina</a> development, with a mix of 95 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.</p>

<p>The one-bed units, which have two living areas, are priced from $749,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=143341 project_image_fid=251418]</p>

<p>Ombre's amenities include a pool, residents' lounge, and landscaped outdoor areas.</p>

<p>Construction at Ombre Robina started in June. Builder <a href="/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a> is forecasting a late 2025 completion.</p>

<p>Over 50 per cent of the apartments have been snapped up. More than 70 per cent of purchasers so far have been local.</p>

<h2>What: LAANI Mermaid Beach</h2>

<h3>Where:&nbsp;26-28 Alexandra Avenue, Mermaid Beach QLD 4218</h3>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;Dankav Developments</h3>

<p>A handful of the one-bedroom apartments at Dankav's under-construction <a href="/new-apartments/laani-26-28-alexandra-avenue-mermaid-beach">LAANI</a> at <a href="/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a> are priced at $780,000.</p>

<p>Rarely is there an opportunity to buy a new one-bedroom apartment in Mermaid Beach, with the suburb dominated by luxury beachfront homes and high-end, boutique new developments that are more likely to be priced from upwards of $2 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6997 project_image_fid=185191]</p>

<p>LAANI, on Alexandra Avenue bordering <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a>, comprises just 46 apartments across an 18-level building designed by BDA.</p>

<p>LAANI features a string of hotel-style amenities including a&nbsp;heated pool, gym, sauna, cinema room, and communal workspaces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What: 180 one &amp; two-bedroom apartments</h2>

<h2>Where:&nbsp;20 Queen Street, Southport</h2>

<h3>Who:&nbsp;MRCB</h3>

<p>While not yet in market, Malaysian developer <a href="/developers/mrcb">MRCB</a> is set to bring an injection of affordable stock to the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>They recently settled on a well-connected site at 20 Queen Street, <a href="/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a>, currently home of the Sundale Motel, and quickly submitted plans for a 20-level building with 180 apartments.</p>

<p>The 92 one-bedroom and 88 two-bedroom apartments will all likely come in under $1 million.</p>

<p><img alt="MRCB targets untapped affordable Gold Coast apartment sector with new Southport tower" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202024-08-27%20at%208.56.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=kn.iESyw36jJvXjT5T7_KCX65c_aiD14" /></p>

<p>The development falls in line&nbsp;with the Queensland Government’s Homes for Queenslanders and the Australian Government’s National Housing Accord, aiming to contribute to addressing the national housing crisis by adding much-needed housing stock in a rapidly growing region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The building will feature amenities such as a pool, gym, and barbecue areas.</p>

<p><a href="/developers/mrcb" target="">MRCB</a>&nbsp;International Sales and Marketing Director, Kevin Zhang, said the&nbsp;Southport development is aimed at capitalising on the prime location.</p>

<p>“The north-facing apartments will have unobstructed views of Broadwater, while residents will also enjoy easy access to all the popular dining, entertainment and shopping precincts of the central Gold Coast right at their doorstep, with access to the light rail.”</p>


The increase in prices, dwelling change, and quickfire increase in the interest rates, pushed first home buyers out of the market. Or so it seemed.

Joel Robinson

How first home buyers can still get into the off the plan apartment market in the Gold Coast

<p>Housing affordability is always the hottest topic of conversation in the Sydney real estate market.</p>

<p>Recent research highlights the increasing difficulty for first home buyers to enter the Sydney property market, with projections indicating that housing will remain unaffordable until at least the 2030s.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The study by Dr Mustapha Bangura from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and UNSW Sydney Professor Chyi Lin Lee found that neither median part-time nor full-time incomes are sufficient to purchase property anywhere in Greater Sydney without additional financial support.</p>

<p>Developer <a href="/developers/australia-ymci-pty-ltd">Australia YMCI</a>&nbsp;(AYMCI) is offering affordable apartments, under the threshold for full stamp duty concessions, at its Sydney Olympic Park development, <a href="/buildings/ruby-apartments-lidcombe-1-kingfisher-street-lidcombe">Ruby Apartments</a>.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=143641 project_image_fid=274364]</p>

<p>A handful of the final apartments left in the completed development are under $800,000, which means first home buyers pay no stamp duty through the NSW Government First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.</p>

<p>“We are committed to providing affordable apartments and projects designed to integrate convenience and luxury, offering residents unparalleled access to transportation options and community amenities,” said Australia YMCI Director Jason Tan.</p>

<p>"We understand the challenges many first-home buyers face in today’s market. Our goal is to provide affordable and quality housing options that do not compromise on luxury or convenience."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two-bedroom apartments under $800,000 each have two bathrooms, one an ensuite with a deep bath tub, an integrated study nook that can comfortably fit a sofa bed, and a parking space.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=143641 project_image_fid=283189]</p>

<p>Located near Accor Stadium and Qudos Bank Arena, Ruby Apartments also benefit from proximity to a vibrant hospitality strip and future developments around Olympic Station, which is set for a $585 million investment.</p>

<p><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/new-nsw-gov-stimulus-draws-buyers-to-sapphire-apartments-in-sydney-olympic-park">New NSW Gov stimulus draws buyers to Sapphire Apartments in Sydney Olympic Park</a></em></p>

<p>Sydney Olympic Park features numerous parks and green spaces, creating a diverse and expansive environment for recreation and leisure. Notable parks within the area include Bicentennial Park, Blaxland Riverside Park, Wentworth Common, and the Badu Mangroves.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=143641 project_image_fid=289363]</p>

<p>The broader Sydney Olympic Park area contains various smaller parks, wetlands, and conservation zones, all contributing to its rich biodiversity and outdoor activities.</p>

<p>The future is also bright for Sydney Olympic Park. The NSW Government has put together a 2030 Master Plan that will revitalize the area with a&nbsp;new town centre, educational facilities, shopping precinct, new homes, more jobs, increased open space, increased community facilities and facilitation of a new Metro station.</p>

<p>There are also plans being drawn up for Master Plan 2050, given the population of Sydney Olympic Park is expected to jump from 3,700 to nearly 30,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143641]</p>


mikah.m@urban.com.au

$0 stamp duty incentive drawing first home buyers to Ruby Apartments in Sydney Olympic Park

<p>First home buyers have descended on Coronation Property's under-construction apartment development in Sydney's west.</p>

<p>Since the start of 2024, nearly 90 per cent of sales enquiries on the two build-to-sell buildings out of the five total buildings in the Merrylands development on <a href="/">Apartments.com.au</a> has come from first home buyers. This is not surprising given the combination of the affordability on offer as well as the rare opportunity to buy a brand new apartment in the area.</p>

<p>The studio apartments start from $520,000, which allows first home buyers to pay no stamp duty under the NSW Government First Home Buyer Assistance scheme.</p>

<p>The two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments have been the most popular starting from $760,000, and each have a car space. First home buyers also won't pay stamp duty on the two-bedroom apartments, given they fall under the $800,000 threshold.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=257777]</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-245-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a> has been designed to be the leader of gentrification in Merrylands, with not only an influx of well-designed apartments by Woods Bagot but also to create a central precinct that goes beyond the four walls of the homes.</p>

<p>The new apartments will sit above a new ‘Eat Street’, hosting various retail and dining options including popular gym One Playground, Macelleria, Hilltop Childcare, Oakberry, Mase &amp; Co, Peanut Butter Bar, Iftar Lebanese, Hayat Turkish, and Yuzu Dining.</p>

<p>This central precinct aims to provide a comprehensive lifestyle hub for residents and the wider community.</p>

<p><em>Read more: <a href="/news/nsw/coronation-welcomes-new-eat-street-tenants-to-mason-main-in-merrylands">Coronation welcomes new Eat Street tenants to Mason &amp; Main in Merrylands</a></em></p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=161005]</p>

<p>Joe Nahas, Managing Director at Coronation Property, said the high demand shown by first home buyers reflects the overwhelming trust Mason &amp; Main customers have placed in Coronation Property’s vision for the development.</p>

<p>“The response from homebuyers, especially first home buyers, has been truly incredible, reaffirming our commitment to delivering exceptional properties that transform the local areas in which we develop,” Nahas said.</p>

<p>Mason &amp; Main offers a total of 415 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, located just south of Parramatta. The precinct has been designed to cater to various demographics, including young families, investors, and downsizers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=161018]</p>

<p>Some of the apartments include large multipurpose rooms, providing residents with versatile spaces that can serve as home offices, additional bedrooms, or nurseries. Each apartment adjoins a balcony that has views of either the Blue Mountains or the Sydney CBD.</p>

<p>Coronation has long known the importance of developing in a connected suburb. Mason &amp; Main is less than 400 metres from Merrylands Station, which is one stop from Parramatta Station and a short-minute commute into Central Station.</p>

<p><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/how-the-small-western-suburb-of-merrylands-is-undergoing-a-drastic-gentrification">How the small western suburb of Merrylands is undergoing a drastic gentrification</a></em></p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=257780]</p>

<p>Everything is at the foot of the master plan.</p>

<p>Stockland Merrylands, with 180 retailers and anchored by a Woolworths, Coles, Aldi and a Kmart sits behind the project, while the Merrylands RSL, Billabong Hotel, and Merrylands best restaurants, are all centred around the heritage-listed train station.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]</p>


Joe Nahas, Managing Director at Coronation Property, said the high demand shown by first home buyers reflects the overwhelming trust Mason & Main customers have placed in Coronation Property’s vision for the development

First home buyers snap up Mason & Main, Merrylands apartments

<p>With 99 per cent of the Heidelberg West market being single houses and townhouses, builder developer <a href="/developers/kincaid-projects">Kincaid</a> has taken great care to ensure its rare Cultivate apartment development is reasonably priced for first home buyers looking to enter the property market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cultivate offers stamp duty savings for first-home buyers, making owning a home even more accessible.</p>

<p>Tailored for first home buyers, Cultivate provides access to incentives such as the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant, stamp duty exemption, and the chance to buy with a five per cent deposit through the Victorian Home Buyer Fund Shared Equity Scheme or First Home Guarantee Scheme for units up to $600,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=276967]</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/cultivate-heidelberg-west-294-bell-street-heidelberg-west">Cultivate</a> offers 146 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two 11-level buildings in one of Melbourne's most well-serviced employment areas.</p>

<p>The price for a one-bed apartments starts at $411,000, while the two-bedroom apartments start from $530,000, both under the $600,000 exemption for stamp duty.</p>

<p>The three-bedroom apartments start from $815,000.</p>

<p>Space was afforded to the living areas in the apartments at Cultivate. They opened to balconies that provide views of natural parklands, the cityscape, and riverways.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=276974]</p>

<p>Central landscaped gardens and rooftop entertaining spaces add to Cultivate appeal, mirroring Melbourne’s love of the outdoors within the development.</p>

<p>Situated in one of Melbourne's last affordable pockets, just 12 kilometres from the CBD, Cultivate benefits from its proximity to various healthcare facilities such as Austin Hospital, The Mercy, and La Trobe Private Hospital.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Cultivate is also conveniently located near RMIT and La Trobe University, making it an ideal choice for students and staff.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=628]</p>


First Home Guarantee Scheme on offer at Kincaid's Cultivate apartments in Heidelberg West

<p>First home buyers have shown the most intent at Citinova's recently completed Greensborough apartment development, Albero.</p>

<p>Throughout its marketing campaign, Albero's price-pointed apartments have proven most popular with the first home buyer demographic, who now more than ever are seeking affordability.</p>

<p>The&nbsp;<a href="/developments/greensborough-vic-3088">Greensborough</a>&nbsp;project, north-east of <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>, offers two-bedroom apartments ranging from $660,000 to $720,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240444]</p>

<p>Feedback from the Urban Community has been that Albero's location and floor plan designs have been the most highly-rated aspects of the development.</p>

<p>Biasol handled the interiors of Albero, which encapsulated a sense of home within the locality of Greensborough, with the design of the apartments guided by the surrounding landscape, rich in Australian natives and character.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The interiors have also been meticulously considered for ultimate liveability and practicality, tailoring each home with a deep understanding of the resident's needs.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240440]</p>

<p>Designed with functionality in mind, the kitchens feature ample storage making hosting dinners effortless and enjoyable, while expansive balconies offer an al fresco dining experience in each home.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Generously sized balconies act as an extension of the homes and allow for exceptional indoor-outdoor living, along with dedicated communal spaces specific to the top two levels and an additional shared terrace for all to enjoy.</p>

<p>Offering a sustainable and timeless design, each residence at Albero features energy-efficient appliances, use of recycled rainwater, and expansive double-glazed windows that allow for an abundance of natural light to flood in and illuminate the interior spaces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=4722 project_image_fid=240438]</p>

<p>Residents of Albero will be within close proximity to Greensborough’s generous transport offerings, with the newly developed Greensborough Station located just a short stroll away for residents needing to commute to the CBD.</p>

<p>While offering the convenience of being close to local amenities, Albero is also afforded the balance of being within walking distance of several walking trails and green open spaces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4722]</p>


Residents of Albero will be within close proximity to Greensborough’s generous transport offerings, with the newly developed Greensborough Station located just a short stroll away for residents needing to commute to the CBD

Staff Writer

First home buyers target Citinova's Albero Greensborough apartments

<p>First home buyers are back in the market across Sydney.</p>

<p>Having left in droves following the RBA's quickfire burst of interest rate hikes, first home buyers are starting to emerge in the off the plan apartment space.</p>

<p>Data from Apartments.com.au's data product MatterFact shows a 30 per cent spike in enquiry from first home buyers in the first three months of 2024 compared to the last three months of 2023.</p>

<p>Compared to 12 months ago, first home buyer enquiry is up 35%.</p>

<p>The spike in enquiry is part due to more confidence in the interest rate having more than likely reached its ceiling, and part due to an increase in stock levels in more affordable projects. It's now been three consecutive months where the RBA has kept interest rates on hold, and the expectation is, despite higher than expected inflation figures in Q1, that rates will start to come down a few times in 2025, if not earlier.</p>

<p>Data from the ABS suggests first home buyers are too. Nationally first home buyers rose by 4.3 per cent to 9,377 of new loans written after a 5.6 per cent fall in January. In New South Wales first home buyer activity rose 6.4 per cent, double the rate of Queensland. First home buyer loans rose just 1.3 per cent in Victoria.</p>

<p>Dave Milton, CBRE Managing Director of Residential Projects, says they've seen first home buyer numbers increase by 11 per cent in the first four months of 2024 compared to 2023.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=112233 project_image_fid=221620]</p>

<p>Milton says the majority of those first home buyers (56 per cent), are seeking two-bedroom apartments rather than one-bedrooms.</p>

<p>"First home buyers are arguably the savviest cohort in the market at the moment," Milton says.</p>

<p>"They're calculating how much they can spend and they're moving quickly before there are price increases, which are happening across the whole market. They don't want to wait and find their budget, which could have got them a two-bedroom apartment a few months ago, now only gets them a one-bed."</p>

<p>The value of off the plan apartments is too rising quickly.&nbsp;The average sale price for first home buyers across CBRE's projects has jumped over 10 per cent year on year, from $748,000 to $827,000.</p>

<p>Most first home buyers are couples who are buying the more expensive two-beds, CBRE's data shows, happier to pay more for what they want rather than drop their requirements to fall under the government's stamp duty benefits.</p>

<p>The biggest increase in first home buyer activity has been in the Hills District, in particular in Castle Hill's Showground Precinct where CBRE is selling Deicorp's Hills Showground Village and The Ashford.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=133881 project_image_fid=209805]</p>

<p>"First home buyers are recognising the lifestyle Castle Hill offers, with the important driver the new Sydney Metro which will open in mid-2024 and connect Castle Hill to Barangaroo in 33 minutes," Milton says.</p>

<p>Then there's the evolution of the northwest growth corridor as a whole. Castle Hill has seen significant investment over the last five years, while its location on the fringe of Chatswood adds further connectivity and&nbsp;another retail precinct.</p>

<p>"It's now a convenient choice for young first home buyers, with access to both the city and an increasing amount of local amenity," Milton says, adding that demand from first home buyers is only likely to increase over the course of 2024.</p>


Dave Milton, CBRE Managing Director of Residential Projects, says they've seen first home buyer numbers increase by 11 per cent in the first four months of 2024 compared to 2023

First home buyer activity lifts across Sydney's off the plan apartment market as interest rates steady

<p>The RBA looks to have adopted a neutral approach to the official cash rate after an aggressive rate hike cycle that saw the cash rate jump from a record low 0.1 per cent to 4.35 per cent.</p>

<p>The increase knocked the first home buyer and investor markets the most, as lending capability shrunk month on month from May 2022.</p>

<p>But now they seem to be back in the frame with consecutive rate holds from the RBA. While there's been no cuts and their budgets are much smaller than they were two years ago, there's the belief the next rate move will be down, which is encouraging the two cohorts back into the market.</p>

<p>They're still looking for affordability, now more than ever. But with a lack of new supply coming to the market at an affordable price point, given the cost of construction of large towers that home one or two-bedroom apartments, then it's important for prospective buyers to look at projects that are already in market, particularly those that are under construction.</p>

<p>Amid a limited market for the entry-level buyer, we've cast our eye over the whole of Melbourne and wrapped up the best apartment developments that have apartments under the $600,000 mark.</p>

<h2>Project: The Queensbridge Building</h2>

<h2>Location: 90 Queensbridge Street, Southbank VIC 3006</h2>

<h2>Developer: Time and Place</h2>

<h2>Price: From $600,000</h2>

<p><a href="/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>, in collaboration with <a href="/developers/maxcap-group">MaxCap Group</a>, is delivering <a href="/new-apartments/the-queensbridge-building-southbank-90-queensbridge-street-southbank">The Queensbridge Building</a> in <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> housing 367 apartments along with its The Clubhouse amenities and a $150 million Hannah St. Hotel with 188 rooms.</p>

<p>The one-bedroom, one-study, and one-bathroom unit at the 62-storey mixed-use development starts at $600,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=208255]</p>

<p>Each of the apartments can be customised with multiple choices of finishes rarely available to any development.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=218169]</p>

<p>Residents will have access to The Clubhouse amenities, managed by an experienced director, which include communal dining areas, a pool house, a gym, a yoga room, and a private Izakaya.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Time &amp; Place have also teamed up with TFE Hotels to bring Hannah St. Hotel, a $150 million 188-room hotel, to The Queensbridge Building.</p>

<p>The Queensbridge Building is currently under construction by <a href="/builders/hickory">Hickory</a> and is expected to be completed in September 2025.</p>

<h2>Project: BLVD at Melbourne Square</h2>

<h2>Location: 19 Hoff Boulevard, Southbank VIC 3006</h2>

<h2>Developer: OSK Property</h2>

<h2>Price: From $541,000</h2>

<p><a href="/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a> has completed two towers at their multi-award-winning <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Melbourne Square</a> precinct, and last year they launched the third, BLVD at Melbourne Square.</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a> is a 73-level skyscraper with just under 600 apartments and extensive resident amenities and wellness facilities. The apartments range from one to three bedrooms, with the one-bedders priced from $541,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=227201]</p>

<p>BLVD was designed by <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a> with tomorrow's living standards in mind, focusing on wellness, connectivity, and community.</p>

<p>The integration of industry-leading technology and connectivity within BLVD ensures that residents can personalise their living spaces and streamline their everyday lives.</p>

<p>While tech advancements are often the future, so are sustainability and wellness. Central to the ethos of BLVD is the pursuit of WELL Certification, a world-leading framework that prioritises the health and well-being of residents.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214124]</p>

<p>To increase the wellness of its residents, OSK Property doubled down on amenities and facilities within the building. They have a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, a gym, a sauna, a Zen garden, alfresco dining areas with barbecue facilities, and top-of-the-line entertainment facilities including residents' lounges, dining rooms, a cinema/karaoke room, and even a golf simulator.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They've also catered for the growing work-from-home trend with co-working spaces, meeting rooms and private booths to work from.</p>

<p>BLVD is expected to be completed in early 2027.</p>

<h2>Project: Pace 3058</h2>

<h2>Location: 9S Wardens Walk, Coburg VIC 3058</h2>

<h2>Developer: Pace Development Group</h2>

<h2>Price From $490,000</h2>

<p>Longtime developer <a href="/developers/pace-development-group">Pace</a> is getting closer to seeing its <a href="/developments/coburg-vic-3058">Coburg</a> residential development, Pace 3058, complete on what was once the exercise yard for Her Majesty’s Prison Pentridge, nestled just behind Sydney Road and surrounded by wide-open parklands, bike trails, and eclectic restaurants and cafes.</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/pace-3058-coburg-9s-wardens-walk-coburg">Pace 3058</a> is a collection of 311 apartments and townhouses designed by <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a>.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254449]</p>

<p>Pace has collaborated with Studio Wonder for interiors of the one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with the one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit starting at $490,000 and the townhouses at $920,000.</p>

<p>Pace 3058 will activate the ground level with a downstairs retail store, plazas and walkways.</p>

<p>The rooftop will be furnished with sitting arrangements and shaded barbecue areas—all overlooking city views.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=24822 project_image_fid=254334]</p>

<p>Furthermore, Pace 3058 is an all-electric development, incorporating sustainable features such as solar panels, double-glazed and Low-E windows, along with an abundance of green spaces to mitigate the heat-island effect.</p>

<p>Construction of Pace 3058 by <a href="/builders/pace-constructions">Pace Constructions</a> is on track for completion in May 2024.</p>


Amid a limited market for the entry-level buyer, we've cast our eye over the whole of Melbourne and wrapped up the best apartment developments that have apartments under the $600,000 mark

First home buyer and investor alert: Melbourne's best off the plan apartments under $600k selling in April 2024

<p>Brisbane property developer&nbsp;Opalyn Property Group is luring first home buyers to its high-end Indooroopilly apartment development, Natura.</p>

<p>The price of the two-bedroom apartments, with two bathrooms, two parking spaces, and 90 sqm of living space, are being offered at $749,000, under the government's $750,000 cap for first home buyers to trigger the $30,000 First Home Owners Grant.</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/natura-indooroopilly-55-york-street-indooroopilly-qld-4068">Natura</a>&nbsp;comprises 35 apartments in the heart of&nbsp;<a href="/developments/indooroopilly-qld-4068">Indooroopilly</a>&nbsp;on York Street, not far from Indooroopilly Shopping Centre and around 800 metres from Taringa Train Station.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94606 project_image_fid=213600]</p>

<p>There are two and three-bedroom apartments on offer in the five-level building designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/vsa-designs">VSA Designs</a>. The&nbsp;interiors feature a neutral palette inspired by nature, accentuated by high-quality finishes and fixtures sourced from renowned brands.</p>

<p>The living areas are characterised by their spaciousness and abundance of natural light. Generous glazing, coupled with the Whisper window glazing system, allows sunlight to permeate throughout the interiors, creating a bright and airy ambience.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94606 project_image_fid=160863]</p>

<p>Each apartment features two balconies, extending the living areas and offering residents a connection to the outdoors. Each also has two undercover secure car parks with intercom security access.</p>

<p>The kitchens within Natura are designed to be both stylish and functional, equipped with SMEG appliances and stone benchtops.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents of Natura will also have exclusive access to a rooftop terrace designed to facilitate social gatherings and provide additional areas for entertainment, complete with BBQ facilities, a separate dining area, and break-out zones enveloped by lush manicured gardens.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94606 project_image_fid=160862]</p>

<p>Natura has already reached its pre-sales milestones, with anticipation that the remaining apartments will be quickly snapped up once construction commences.</p>

<p>Cule Constructions has been appointed to oversee the construction of Natura, slated for completion in May 2025.</p>

<p><a href="/developers/opalyn-property-group">Opalyn Property Group</a>&nbsp;has been developing in Brisbane for over four decades, creating a number of projects in Chermside.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94606]</p>


Cule Constructions has been appointed to oversee the construction of Natura, slated for completion in May 2025

Natura Indooroopilly apartments give first home buyers a boost with $30k government incentives on offer

<p>Despite Brisbane's staggering price growth which has seen it overtake Melbourne in median dwelling value, there's still a strong appetite from first home buyers in the market, as long as there's a compelling enough price point to purchase.</p>

<p>There's <a href="/news/qld/stock-levels-shrink-toward-five-year-lows-in-brisbanes-off-the-plan-apartment-market-urbis-brisbane-apartment-market-insights-q4-2023">few developments being launched across Brisbane</a>, but those that do, and have competitive priced stock, are seeing strong demand from first home buyers because there tends to only be a handful of one-bedroom apartments in a building nowadays, with developers leaning towards two and three-bedroom units.</p>

<p>We've crunched the numbers and wrapped up the top five apartment developments that have drawn the interest of first home buyers so far in 2024.</p>

<h2>Project: Ruby Ruby</h2>

<h3>Location: 12 Crombie Street, Milton QLD 4064</h3>

<h3>Developer: Kokoda Property</h3>

<p><a href="/developers/kokoda-property">Kokoda Property</a>'s Ruby Ruby will rise 21 levels from 12-18 Crombie Street and will comprise 144 apartments, ranging from 65 sqm to 155 sqm. Prices for <a href="/new-apartments/ruby-ruby-milton-12-crombie-street-milton">Ruby Ruby</a> start at $799,000.</p>

<p>Ranking first in Apartments.com.au's list of top enquiries by first home buyers for apartment developments in <a href="/new-apartments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a>, the feedback from the Urban community voted Ruby Ruby's amenities, floor plan designs, and great location as the development's key strengths.</p>

<p>The 144-apartment building will feature a wellness rooftop with a wet-edge swimming pool that spans the full width of the building. Completing the fitness component of the rooftop is a health and wellness space with a gym, infrared sauna, spa, plunge pool and yoga studio.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139032 project_image_fid=232307]</p>

<p>Kokoda is also catering for the working-from-home trend with several meeting rooms on the ground level, while the podium will be home to a private dining and lounge area, a cinema room, and a billiards room.</p>

<p>The development will offer a variety of unit configurations, including 54 one-bedroom units, 77 two-bedroom units, 12 three-bedroom units, and two four-bedroom penthouses on the 20th floor.</p>

<p>Moreover, Ruby Ruby is ideally located just behind the <a href="/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a> Train Station, a three-minute train to Roma Street Station. The site has also quickly garnered attention for its quirky cafe and brewery scene attracting young professionals.</p>

<h2>Project: Panorama</h2>

<h3>Location: 37 Mayne Road, Bowen Hills QLD 4006</h3>

<h3>Developer: Arden Group</h3>

<p><a href="/buildings/panorama-bowen-hills-37-mayne-road-bowen-hills">Panorama</a>, made up of 256 one and two-bedroom apartments over 25 levels designed by <a href="/architects/arqus-design">Arqus Design</a>, is more than competitively priced when put next to comparable apartment developments in Brisbane.</p>

<p>Suited to both investors and first-home buyers, the ready-to-move-in-apartments start from an affordable price of $495,000 for a one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit.</p>

<p>Just over two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and less than 10-minute walk to some of Brisbane’s best retail, commercial and employment hot spots, Panorama sits in a desirable location.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7711 project_image_fid=192988]</p>

<p>The building is also located 200 metres from Bowen Hills Station and a 10-minute ride to the Brisbane airport.</p>

<p>On the ground level, Panorama provides residents with convenient retail services, while on level five, the Panorama Retreat features an exclusive resort level, including a lap pool with an adjoining plunge pool, Zen garden, a landscaped north-facing ‘quiet zone,’ barbecue, entertainment terrace, gym facilities and sauna.</p>

<p>The Panorama Skydeck crowns the building and features&nbsp;private nooks, a cinema, bar, and kitchen.</p>

<h2>Project: Wattlebrush Gardens</h2>

<h3>Location: 14 Wattlebrush Court, Park Ridge QLD 4125</h3>

<h3>Developer: Property &amp; Equity</h3>

<p><a href="/developments/park-ridge-qld-4125">Park Ridge</a> is a peaceful, low-crime rate, strategically positioned suburb with significant potential, despite being 30 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.</p>

<p>The Council envisions the area as a highly desirable place to live and work, taking advantage of its natural assets, especially with the recent upgrade of the Mt Lindesay Highway.</p>

<p>One developer tapping into the anticipated growth is <a href="/developers/property-equity">Property &amp; Equity</a>, which has delivered a collection of 23 townhomes to the area.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=110047 project_image_fid=185744]</p>

<p>Property &amp; Equity's townhouse development <a href="/new-townhouses/14-wattlebrush-court-park-ridge">Wattlebrush Gardens</a> offers a prime location that has attracted first-home buyers and investors, situated near the entrance to the Mt Lindsay Highway.</p>

<p>Three-bedroom townhomes are still available in Wattlebrush Gardens, with prices starting at an affordable point of $490,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents will also benefit from the recent completion of the Logan Hospital expansion, a $145 million project, which has transformed the hospital into a state-of-the-art health facility, catering to the growing population in the southwest growth corridor.</p>

<p>Educational facilities are also a hot commodity in Park Ridge, with Wattlebrush Gardens near Park Ridge State High School and Park Ridge Primary.</p>

<h2>Project: Breathe Residences</h2>

<h3>Location: 27 Lorne Street, Alderley QLD 4051</h3>

<h3>Developer: Guavalime</h3>

<p>Although just approaching its launch, <a href="/developers/guavalime">Guavalime</a>'s Breathe Residences in <a href="/developments/alderley-qld-4051">Alderley</a> ticks all the boxes for first-home buyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/breathe-residences-alderley-27-lorne-street-alderley-qld">Breathe Residences</a> offers a variety of configurations to choose from, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, conveniently situated just a six-minute walk away from the train station and directly opposite Alderley Village.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=143502 project_image_fid=249939]</p>

<p>Inside, the apartments feature exposed concrete ceilings in the living area, while balconies or outdoor rooms feature built-in bench seats and planter boxes, extending living spaces outdoors while offering opportunities for relaxation and greenery.</p>

<p>Local builder <a href="/builders/geocal-group">Geocal Group</a> has already been appointed to build Breathe Residences, which is expected to officially launch soon through <a href="/project-marketer/position-property">Position Property</a>.</p>

<h2>Project: Parque</h2>

<h3>Location: 3 McConaghy Street, Mitchelton QLD 4053</h3>

<h3>Developer: Carbone Developments</h3>

<p>Another recently launched project, <a href="/developers/carbone-developments">Carbone</a>'s <a href="/new-apartments/parque-mitchelton-3-mcconaghy-street-mitchelton">Parque</a> in <a href="/developments/mitchelton-qld-4053">Mitchelton</a> has already gained traction on Apartments.com.au, particularly among first home buyers, presenting one of the rarest opportunities to buy off the plan in an area starved of new apartment supply.</p>

<p>Starting from $450,000, the 60 one and two-bedroom apartments have been designed by <a href="/architects/red-door-architecture">Red Door Architecture</a> to make the most of Brisbane's tropical climate, with the open plan kitchen, living and dining areas opening onto balconies.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=140363 project_image_fid=250246]</p>

<p>The project features a swimming pool and a gym, as well as a sun deck with barbecue facilities and park views.</p>

<p>Slated for completion in July 2025, Parque Michelton's location is one of the stand-out features of the project. Not many projects have the convenience of a train station 35 metres away as well as sitting on 6,100 sqm Osborne Road Park.</p>


Brisbane's top five most popular apartment developments for first home buyers in 2024

<p>The first home buyer market has been incredibly quiet in the off the plan apartment market for the last few years given the unwavering hiking of interest rates by the RBA.</p>

<p>Now however, with economic data and commentary suggesting rates will be coming down. later in 2024, first home buyers have started to emerge again.</p>

<p>Data from MatterFact, Apartments.com.au's new data analytics product, shows that in&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a>&nbsp;there has been over 35 per cent more enquiry from first home buyers in the first two months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023.</p>

<p>Enquiry is also 30 per cent up compared with the last two months of 2023.</p>

<p>We've looked at the most popular apartment developments across Sydney for first home buyers on Urban.</p>

<h2>Projects: Fox Lane</h2>

<h3>Location: 2 Fox Lane, Rockdale NSW 2216</h3>

<h3>Developer: TQM Group</h3>

<p><a href="/developers/tqm-group">TQM Group</a>'s next generation of urban-designed apartments has become one of the most sought-after addresses in <a href="/developments/rockdale-nsw-2216">Rockdale</a>, with both first home buyers and investors showing significant interest.</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/fox-lane-rockdale-499-princes-highway-rockdale">Fox Lane</a> comprises 43 studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments above two ground-floor commercial spaces. The apartments start at $539,000.</p>

<p>First home buyers will enjoy their practical open-plan homes and the variety of rooftop amenities crowning the <a href="/architects/place-studio">Place Studio</a>-designed building.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=141702 project_image_fid=228147]</p>

<p>Fox Lane's onsite amenity includes a cinema, pool and BBQ area with expansive district views. Fox Lane also offers easy access to some of Rockdale’s many local amenities and urban conveniences, just an eight-minute walk to&nbsp;Rockdale or Banksia Station.</p>

<p>The area around Fox Lane is also teeming with a vibrant café and restaurant scene with some of the best food and dining spots nearby.</p>

<h2>Projects: The Grand</h2>

<h3>Location: 27-37 Mann Street, Gosford NSW 2250</h3>

<h3>Developer: TQM Group</h3>

<p><a href="/developers/ace-property-group">Ace Property Group</a> and TQM Group, who have teamed up on several apartment developments previously, have collaborated again to create the apartment development The Grand.</p>

<p>Situated on <a href="/new-apartments/gosford-nsw-2250">Gosford</a>'s Mann Street, the project offers one of the most desirable locations for apartment seekers across the entire Central Coast.</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/the-grand-gosford-27-37-mann-street-gosford">The Grand</a> will comprise 138 apartments across an 18-level <a href="/architects/kannfinch">Kann Finch</a>-designed tower.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prospective first home buyers at The Grand can pay no stamp duty for the two-bedroom apartments, which start at $700,000. They span nearly 100 sqm of internal living area.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=22753 project_image_fid=210677]</p>

<p>Architecture firm Kann Finch designed the tower to protrude from a fine-grained sandstone podium, which will be crowned by a striking resident infinity pool and a landscaped garden by <a href="/landscape-architect/site-image">Site Image Landscape Architects</a>.</p>

<p>Within the podium, on street level, will be several food and beverage tenancies when the building is complete in 2025.</p>

<p>The open-plan apartments feature floor-to-ceiling glass windows, taking in sweeping views of either the water or the wider Central Coast district. The well-appointed kitchens come furnished with Smeg appliances, Parisi tape-ware, timber veneer, and stone benchtops.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Projects: Tallawong Village</h2>

<h3>Location: 2-12 &amp; 1-15 Conferta Avenue, Rouse Hill NSW 2155</h3>

<h3>Developer: Deicorp</h3>

<p><a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a>'s <a href="/new-apartments/tallawong-village-rouse-hill-shop-30-12-conferta-avenue-tallawong">Tallawong Village</a> offers highly affordable but contemporary apartments in Sydney's growing Hills District, with varying floor plans of one, two and three-bedrooms catering to both rightsizers and first home buyers.</p>

<p>Situated on the doorstep of the Sydney Metro Tallawong Station, Tallawong Village boasts unparalleled connectivity, with existing access to the Sydney CBD, and plans already underway to connect <a href="/new-apartments/tallawong-nsw-2762">Tallawong</a> to the future Western Sydney International Airport.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=106821 project_image_fid=215904]</p>

<p>The village will also benefit from the planned future Tallawong Town Centre, which will deliver up to 30,000 sqm of retail floorspace, while the bustling Rouse Hill Town Centre is just one stop away on the Metro.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tallawong Village is a part of the more than 2,000 apartments that Deicorp is delivering along the Northwest Metro line, with the group also responsible for the <a href="/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill">Hills Showground Village</a> in <a href="/new-apartments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> and <a href="/buildings/proximity-rouse-hill-8-civic-way-rouse-hill">Proximity</a> at <a href="/new-apartments/rouse-hill-nsw-2155">Rouse Hill</a>.</p>

<h2>Projects: Auburn Square</h2>

<h3>Location: 26-36 Northumberland Road, Auburn NSW 2144</h3>

<h3>Developer: Tian AN Australia Ltd</h3>

<p>Developed by <a href="/developers/tian-an-australia">Tian An LFD</a>, Auburn Square boasts the ultimate liveability in the heart of western Sydney.</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/auburn-square-26-36-northumberland-road-auburn">Auburn Square</a> comprises 427 residences in one, two, and three-bedroom configurations, including nine retail and commercial suites and various amenities..</p>

<p>The project is ideally price pointed for first home buyers, with both one and two-bedroom apartments starting below $600,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=248568]</p>

<p>Each apartment has generously sized, open-concept living and dining areas, as well as well-appointed kitchens with integrated premium Westinghouse appliances.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A sprawling rooftop garden covering 2,000 sqm crowns Auburn Square and provides a welcoming retreat for residents to enjoy with their families, pets, and neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Auburn Square is only a four-minute walk from the train station, with easy access to Parramatta Road and the M4 for a quick drive to Sydney CBD or destinations further west.</p>

<h2>Projects: Rhodes Central Oasis</h2>

<h3>Location: 39 Marquet Street, Rhodes NSW 2138</h3>

<h3>Developer: Billbergia</h3>

<p>National property development firm <a href="/builders/billbergia-construction">Billbergia</a>'s recent release at their $2.5 billion masterplanned community Rhodes Central,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-central-oasis-39-marquet-street-rhodes">Oasis</a>, has been popular with first home buyers on Urban.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB Architects</a>, the Oasis tower offers 126 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments starting at $865,000.</p>

<p>The apartments range from one-bedroom units up to 78 sqm, two-bedroom units around 90 sqm, and three-bedroom apartments reaching 116 sqm internally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=112691 project_image_fid=205749]</p>

<p>Oasis also features a range of exclusive resident facilities, including an expansive swimming pool with private cabanas, a splash pad for children, and a spa.</p>

<p>Upon completion, the Rhodes Central neighbourhood covers approximately two hectares and will be home to five residential water-view buildings on the <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a> peninsula when complete, housing over 1,500 apartments.</p>

<p>There will also be a central plaza with shopping, dining, and recreation offerings in the master plan.</p>


First Home Buyer

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News