Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a> has lodged a Development Application for a landmark $120 million precinct set to transform the southern gateway of the much-loved Spit.

Positioned at the most prominent entry point to the iconic peninsula, the project has been designed with a strong focus on architecture, public space, heritage and connectivity, delivering a revitalised parkland setting that invites locals and visitors to engage with the Broadwater.

Central to The Isles proposal is a significantly upgraded public realm, including landscaped open space, a new waterfront café, and a family-friendly park featuring a naval-themed playground, open lawns and improved pedestrian connections.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de83a270-6091-4b26-bed0-86f9248e7f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%201.jpg?VersionId=vt79HlCOwV9F7eLQe9.Z3bv9JGLMaSP2" />

The design retains and celebrates key elements of the site’s history. The training mast from the vacant and degraded naval cadet building, which forms part of a former Navy minesweeper, will be preserved. The existing Navy Memorial will be relocated and upgraded in collaboration with the RSL, allowing it to be publicly accessible for the first time in years. 
&nbsp; 
Heritage-listed Humphreys Boat Shed remnants will remain and be incorporated into the landscape, while the site’s established Norfolk Pines will be retained, reinforcing the area’s character and sense of place. The enhanced parkland will ultimately create a long-term community asset at the entry to The Spit. 
&nbsp; 
The Development Application (DA) lodged with Gold Coast City Council includes 28 waterfront apartments across three levels, ranging in size from 145sqm to 383sqm, designed as a feature landmark within the precinct and complement the public domain.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbf94e00-b56a-47fb-a15d-3d17b0b1ec76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%203.jpg?VersionId=A0vmBNE_KohYJo1EoZcmF5IVW4tT5aDo" /> 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said the project as a whole had been carefully shaped to deliver a meaningful outcome for the wider community, not just future residents. 
&nbsp; 
“This is about more than delivering opulent apartments – it’s about creating a welcoming and memorable gateway to The Spit that people can enjoy every day,” Mr Foote said. 
&nbsp; 
“We’ve worked hard to ensure the public realm is a central part of the project, from the landscaped parklands and family-friendly spaces through to the preservation and celebration of important local heritage.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="443bbde5-8221-45f8-a549-dad2623df20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%204.jpg?VersionId=iUl6nc.sHkjMdo_1RigwbwUz_celHJ3H" /> 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, The Isles adopts a considered subtropical approach, with the building form shaped to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and views to the Broadwater and surrounding parklands. 
&nbsp; 
Architect Rafael Contreras said the design responded directly to its unique coastal setting. 
&nbsp; 
“Rather than a typical built form, the architecture has been shaped by performance and experience – from optimising outlook and privacy to creating a strong connection to landscape and climate,” Mr Contreras said. 
&nbsp; 
“A central landscaped courtyard allows light, air and greenery to permeate the building, while the articulated façade introduces movement and rhythm inspired by the Broadwater.

“The Isles will create a place where people can gather, relax and connect with the water, while also delivering a refined residential product that responds to its unique setting.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1089570d-1120-4302-9900-fb9f75c75c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%205.jpg?VersionId=pl9qmKZNbaL3A7XjmD7sjhLwmXaqzzLZ" /> 
&nbsp; 
The DA relates to the residential and public realm components, with a proposed boutique marina to be progressed as part of a future stage, subject to separate approvals. 
&nbsp; 
The Isles is being delivered under The Spit Master Plan, a collaborative vision to create a new residential, tourism, leisure, natural environment and cultural heritage hub on the iconic and much-loved peninsula.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects has an established track record delivering premium residential projects across the Gold Coast, including The Monaco at Main Beach and Cabana at Palm Beach. 
&nbsp; 
Sales for The Isles are expected to commence in coming months from an on-site display suite, with construction targeted to begin later this year, subject to approvals.

Joel Robinson

Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit

The Federal Government’s sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could trigger an unintended consequence: a surge of investor demand into the new and off the plan apartment sector.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has framed the reforms as a way to improve housing affordability and rebalance the tax system, the carve-outs for newly built housing are already positioning off the plan apartments as one of the few remaining tax-effective property investment plays.

Under the changes handed down in the Federal Budget, investors purchasing established properties after budget night will no longer be able to access negative gearing benefits. The Government will also replace the long-standing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-indexation model and introduce a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains from July 2027.

However, there is a major exemption.

Investors buying new builds, including off the plan apartments, will still be eligible for negative gearing and will be able to choose between retaining the current 50 per cent CGT discount or adopting the new indexed model.

That distinction is expected to reshape investor behaviour almost immediately.

For years, established housing has dominated investor purchases because of its perceived lower risk, immediate rental returns and stronger historical capital growth. But with the tax advantages now heavily skewed toward new housing supply, the economics are changing rapidly.

The Federal Government has been explicit about its intent.

“The housing market and tax system are broken,” Chalmers said ahead of the Budget, arguing that existing concessions were disproportionately rewarding speculation rather than supporting housing supply.

The Government says the reforms are designed to encourage investment into new housing rather than established stock, a move aimed at increasing supply during a prolonged housing shortage.

According to the official Budget papers, limiting negative gearing to newly built homes is intended to “better align tax incentives with housing supply objectives.”

For the apartment development sector, particularly the off the plan market, the changes could become one of the strongest investor tailwinds in years.

Developers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have spent the past two years battling elevated construction costs, higher interest rates and subdued investor confidence. Many projects have struggled to secure sufficient pre-sales to commence construction, particularly in markets heavily reliant on investor demand.

The Budget changes may now alter that equation.

Investors seeking tax-effective property exposure will increasingly find themselves funnelled toward newly built apartments simply because established dwellings no longer offer the same benefits.

Commonwealth Bank described the reforms as one of the most significant shifts to residential property investment settings in decades, noting that the package is centred around “limiting negative gearing for residential property to new builds” while replacing the existing CGT framework.

That could have profound implications for the apartment sector.

Off the plan apartments already hold several advantages for investors. Purchasers typically secure a property at today’s price while settlement occurs years later, allowing time for capital growth and reducing the upfront capital burden. Brand-new apartments also generally attract depreciation benefits, lower maintenance costs, and stronger appeal to renters seeking modern amenity.

Now, they may also become one of the only residential property types still offering the full suite of historical tax advantages.

Industry analysts expect investor demand to increasingly migrate toward projects that can clearly demonstrate strong rental demand, transport connectivity and long-term supply constraints.

The shift is likely to be particularly pronounced in apartment markets already underpinned by structural undersupply, including inner Brisbane, the Gold Coast, parts of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and select Melbourne precincts where new apartment commencements have collapsed over recent years.

The reforms also arrive at a time when apartment supply nationally remains critically constrained.

Australia is already struggling to meet the Federal Government’s target of delivering 1.2 million new homes over five years. Construction feasibility pressures have delayed or shelved thousands of apartments across the country, particularly as building costs remain elevated and financing conditions remain tight.

Critics of the Budget changes argue the reforms could reduce overall investor participation in the housing market and place upward pressure on rents by discouraging investment in established housing.

Some economists estimate the measures could reduce housing supply over the longer term if overall investor appetite weakens.

However, the Government is betting that redirecting investor capital into new housing supply will offset those concerns.

“To continue to incentivise construction of new housing, investors building new residential properties will be able to choose either the 50 per cent CGT discount or the new arrangements,” the Budget papers stated.

That wording has been closely watched by the development industry because it effectively positions new apartments as the preferred investment class within residential property.

For off the plan developers, the reforms could become a powerful sales tool.

Projects that have increasingly relied on owner-occupier demand may once again attract investors seeking to preserve the tax advantages still attached to newly built housing before the July 2027 changes take effect.

The reforms are also expected to sharpen the divide between established and new housing markets.

Rather than a broad investor retreat from property altogether, many analysts expect a redistribution of capital toward sectors still supported by Government incentives.

That could create stronger demand for apartment projects in key urban growth corridors and transit-oriented precincts where population growth, migration and rental shortages remain elevated.

The policy direction also aligns with the Government’s broader push toward increasing housing density in established urban areas.

Across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, planning reforms are increasingly encouraging higher-density apartment development around transport infrastructure and activity centres. By maintaining tax incentives for new housing, the Federal Government is effectively reinforcing that agenda from a taxation perspective.

For apartment developers who have spent years navigating subdued investor confidence, the changes may ultimately become the catalyst that reactivates parts of the off the plan market.

While the broader property sector is still digesting the long-term implications of the Budget, one thing is already becoming clear.

The era of investors buying established apartments and houses primarily for tax advantages may be ending.

But for off the plan apartments, the investment story may just be beginning.

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Investors to flood off the plan apartment market?

Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

The Greater Sydney apartment pipeline is tipped to plunge by 2024, with the 36,275 new apartment developments to be completed over the next three years, well below the 67,925 recorded in the prior 2018-20 period.

The major decline has been revealed in Knight Frank Research&rsquo;s Australian residential development review 2021, which tips a 47 percent decline.

&ldquo;Limited new apartment project launches in recent years have highlighted the supply issues ahead for Sydney with decade low levels of new supply in the pipeline,&quot; said Knight Frank&rsquo;s head of residential research, Michelle Ciesielski.

She also noted as developers commence construction, &quot;they&rsquo;re likely to feel the pinch from rising building costs and sourcing labour with limited migration and competition from a mammoth pipeline of state and federal government infrastructure projects being fast-tracked.&quot;

<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw?source_news_article_id=103013&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sydney-cbd-_template_7.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

&ldquo;With an increased reliance on sub-contractors, there is also competition coming from those dabbling in home renovation post lockdown.&rdquo;

Despite a weakening apartment market, NSW has for the 9th straight year maintained its position as the nation&rsquo;s leader for developer&rsquo;s expanding their sites portfolio, accounting for almost half of all sales in Australia last year.

Of the $4.1bn of total residential development site sales recorded nationwide in 2020, Sydney accounted for $1.97bn which was above Victoria ($1.29bn), Queensland ($642m) and Western Australia ($84.8m).

While high-density apartments made up the majority of total Sydney residential development sales ($1.3bn in 2020), Sydney also experienced a significant increase in low-density developments.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93945]

Last year, 27.6% of development sites purchased across Greater Sydney were suitable for low density development,which was almost double the 14.2% share of low-density developments recorded in 2019.

Overall, a total of 8,280 new single allotments were released across Greater Sydney in 2020, up 70.4% on 2019, while low-density building approvals grew by 7.5%, with 26,483 single dwellings.

Despite the trend away from high-density projects in Greater Sydney, Knight Frank noted there were developers making longer term plans for this product with a rapid rise in collective site developments &ndash; considered those with the potential for residential development and including more than one vendor&ndash;with GreaterSydney recording $474.7m of sales in 2020.&nbsp;

The investment being made in collective site developments in Sydney is the highest among all capital cities.

Knight Frank&#39;s Head of Investment Sales in NSW, Grant Bulpett said: while HomeBuilder has lured first home buyers to the low-density market, many developers were already seeking longer term plays with significant englobo parcels being purchased in recent years.

&ldquo;This gives these developers options to subdivide, then turn the tap on and off to meet market demand.

&ldquo;With strong off the plan sales, low-density developers in Sydney are certainty operating in a low risk environment, however the increases in contributions and delay in service delivery in emerging markets is proving difficult to navigate.&rdquo;

&ldquo;With the residential market heating up, many developers are favouring development approved sites to get their project sales moving and capitalise on the current demand.&rdquo;

Despite the trend away from high-density projects in Greater Sydney, Knight Frank said there were developers making longer term plans

jchancellor

Upcoming three-year pipeline of new Sydney apartments sees a significant drop: Knight Frank

One of the penthouses in the Sirius building at The Rocks has been sold to a $19 million buyer from Coogee, setting a new high for Sydney&rsquo;s luxury apartment market of more than $118,000 a square metre.

A larger $35 million penthouse sale equates to $112,000 a square metre, when the 311 square metre space on top of the original brutalist building sold off the plan for $35 million yesterday to a buyer from Point Piper.

<img alt="" height="850" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sirius_2.jpg" width="1200" />

The apartments were sold through Ben Stewart and the CBRE chairman Justin Brown.

The remaining seven penthouses and 67 pod style apartments will be offered for sale this Saturday.

The boutique development will have a dress circle position overlooking the harbour and Opera House.

<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw?source_news_article_id=103010&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sydney-cbd-_template_6.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The developer JDH Capital is headed by the former Macquarie banker Jean-Dominique Huynh, who commissioned Australian firm BVN to designed the 76 luxury apartments within and atop of the original building.

Prior record prices per square metre include sales in the Opera complex, just across Circular Quay, that fetched a&nbsp;record-setting $96,400 per square metre off the plan in late 2016.&nbsp;

The state government sold the site for $150 million with the building designed in the late 1970s by architect Tao Gofers for the NSW Housing Commission.

&nbsp;

A buyer from Coogee set a new high for the luxury apartment market of more than $118,000 a square metre

Sirius penthouses selling for up to $118,000 per square metre in The Rocks

The Sydney developer ALAND has seen a flurry of sales at two of their Greater Western Sydney developments, as investors continue to&nbsp;look away from the regional areas and invest closer to the city.

ALAND&#39;s Greater Western Sydney projects Schofield Gardens in Schofields, near Kellyville,&nbsp;and their Liverpool development Hoxton, have seen a sharp increase in investor demand.

Data from My Housing Market found that area&#39;s such as Wollongong to the south of Sydney and Newcastle and Central Coast to the north see rental yields in the mid three percent range, when calculating the area&#39;s median property price and median rental price.

ALAND&#39;s Schofield Gardens development has investors seeing gross rental yields topping 4.7 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29042 project_image_fid=165529]

&ldquo;What Sydney property investors don&rsquo;t realise is that they can make much more money in their own backyard than they can in regional areas, while taking advantage of what will probably be much higher capital gains,&rdquo; ALAND sales director Mark Bernberg said.

&ldquo;Sydney&rsquo;s western suburbs are ripe with investment opportunities and no shortage of rental demand.

&quot;Investing in a freshly-built apartment saves many headaches as well, with next to no maintenance required for the first few years of its life.&rdquo;

Schofield Gardens will home one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments on Grima Street, opposite Schofield&#39;s Woolworths and train station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29042 project_image_fid=165522]

Prices at Schofield Gardens start from $450,000 for a one-bedroom apartment with parking. Two beds are priced from $550,000 and three-bedroom apartments from $699,000. Completion is slated for mid-2022.

The Schofields Precinct was rezoned by the NSW government in 2012 and new planning controls were put in place to allow for urban development, which the government said at the time would include nearly 3,000 new homes.

ALAND are also seeing investor demand creep back in to their Liverpool apartment tower The Hoxton.

The 32-level tower in the heart of Liverpool, again a short walk from the closest train station, will home 331 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9198 project_image_fid=164866]

One bedders in The Hoxton start from $480,000, two-bedroom apartments from $523,000 and three bedroom apartments from $677,000. ALAND also have a mid-2022 completion for The Hoxton.

In 2019, the NSW Government said that population growth for the Liverpool area was expected to increase 26 per cent over the next decade.&nbsp;

The increase in investors in Greater Sydney comes after Knight Frank Research Australian residential development review 2021 found that the&nbsp;Greater Sydney apartment pipeline is tipped to plunge by 2024 by nearly 50 per cent.

The 36,275 new apartment developments to be completed over the next three years are set to be well below the 67,925 recorded in the prior 2018-20 period.

ALAND's Greater Western Sydney projects Schofield Gardens in Schofields, near Kellyville, and their Liverpool development Hoxton, have seen a sharp increase in investor demand

ALAND see investor demand spike in Greater Sydney apartment projects

Local Central Coast buyers are enjoying refined coastal living at JMGM&rsquo;s latest Gosford development, Horizon.

Set across 19-storeys, the Mann Street development comprises 182 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as 2,500sqm of retail space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101204 project_image_fid=162046]

The Gosford region is not just for locals. Many buyers have begun recognising the beauty of the area and its sparkling waterways, sandy beaches and family-friendly activities on offer.

The area continues to grow and thrive as both a desirable place to live and a flourishing tourist destination, home to renowned beaches such as Avoca, Terrigal and MacMasters Beach.

Gosford is an attractive and affordable option for first home buyers and investors alike, boasting strong rental returns and positive capital growth.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101204 project_image_fid=162047]

Designed by Lutolli Architects and Partners, Horizon has been carefully crafted as a modern and luxurious tower, boasting exceptional views and spacious interiors.

Each residence&rsquo;s kitchen is characterised by sculptural curved surfaces and a sophisticated, timeless palette of warm neutrals.

The home&rsquo;s feature floor-to-ceiling windows, wrap-around balcony, open-plan living and dining, and amazing views across Gosford, Brisbane Water and National Parklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101204 project_image_fid=162051]

&ldquo;Floor-to-ceiling windows and frameless glass balconies bring views into your living and dining spaces&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Exclusive amenities available to residents include an outdoor pool, pool lounges and Swedish-inspired sauna.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=101204]

Local Central Coast buyers are enjoying refined coastal living at JMGM’s latest Gosford development, Horizon

max.kwok_55688

Coastal living at Gosford’s newest residence: Introducing Horizon by JMGM

The Cronulla mall is set for a $350 million facelift, with the Sydney developer Sammut Group set to create a new mixed-use retail and residential precinct.

The mixed-use urban renewal project at the northern end of the Cronulla Mall, which the&nbsp;Sutherland Shire Council calls the Northern Gateway site, will see the old retail and commercial and retail space renovated and extended.

The 5,225 sqm development, called Vue, will also home&nbsp;122 one, two and three bedroom apartments, developed above the shopping precinct.

<img alt="" height="1005" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/vue_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&ldquo;This is a game-changing development that will provide the catalyst for the future revitalisation and growth of the Cronulla CBD,&rdquo; Sammut Group director Allen Sammut said.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a pivotal project for the area, particularly the many businesses in Cronulla that have been struggling in recent years.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re extremely excited and eager to see our vision for this iconic gateway site come to life, ushering in a new era of optimism and opportunity for Cronulla.&rdquo;

<img alt="" height="990" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/vue_2.jpg" width="1200" />

There will be 885 sqm of commercial space, as well as&nbsp;speciality shops, restaurants and full-line major supermarket brand Harris Farm Markets, set to become their flagship store.

It&#39;s the same location where there was a 20-level tower proposed back in 2017 by a different development group.&nbsp;

About the developer

Established as Sammut Constructions by Paul Sammut over five decades ago, the family-owned business is now headed by sons Allen and John, and grandson Julian Sammut, who have evolved the business into &lsquo;Sammut Group&rsquo;.

They have won over 40 major industry awards for their projects and have an extensive portfolio&nbsp;in the New South Wales market and the local market with Banc, Loft, Breeze and Drift all developed in the Sutherland Shire.

Sammut are developing Vue with the Sydney-based investment group Alceon, who they are also teaming up with for the <a href="/news/qld/tower-reveal-sammut-lodge-plans-for-200-million-surfers-paradise-apartment-tower-coast">$200 million luxury Surfers Paradise development</a>.

The 5,225 sqm development, called Vue, will also see 122 one, two and three bedroom apartments developed above the shopping centre

Sammut Group's $350 million mixed-use development Vue to change Cronulla CBD

The NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet has released a progress paper on the Government&rsquo;s property tax proposal for stamp duty reform.

The reform would see an optional longterm annual land tax paid by residential home buyers who opted out of the current one-off, upfront stamp duty obligation.

The paper notes feedback and submissions from the community and stakeholders received over the past six months.

The paper acknowledges there were &quot;mixed views regarding how the property tax could impact the ongoing affordability of property in NSW.&quot;

It noted some industry stakeholders and members of the community suggested that removing stamp duty would cause upward pressure on prices due to an increase in spending power.

But the paper relied on the McKell Instutute which suggested while the introduction of the property tax may place upward pressure on house prices in the short term, &quot;the reduction in stamp duty costs will still result in a net positive effect on housing affordability.&rdquo;

<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw?source_news_article_id=102661&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sydney-cbd-_template_5.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The paper advised several financial institutions and the Tax Institute provided feedback that the annual property tax would need to be considered in determining a borrower&rsquo;s capacity (&lsquo;loan serviceability&rsquo;) to repay 
any home loan.&nbsp;

Lenders would need to take property tax payments into account as part of their Household Expenditure Measure (HEM) when determining maximum lending limits, which the paper concluded would minimise the pricing impact of property reform on driving up bidding in auctions.&nbsp;

&quot;Any savings made by opting-in to property tax will therefore be unlikely to translate to an increase in property prices,&quot; it concluded.

The proposal was originally outlined in the November 2021 NSW budget.

The paper provides additional detail on the proposed reform, which would give prospective homeowners the choice to pay stamp duty or a small, annual property tax when they purchase their new home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93954]

Mr Perrottet said the NSW Treasury &ldquo;Have Your Say&rdquo; website received more than 23,800 visits with 3,544 surveys completed since the proposal was announced last November.&nbsp;

It also received 57 detailed submissions from industry stakeholders and 196 community submissions.

&ldquo;We are proposing a once in a generation reform to make home ownership more affordable and achievable, and the engagement and interest from across all segments of the community has been significant and heartening,&rdquo; Mr Perrottet said.

The key findings of the consultation period include:

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; A strong view that reform of the existing system is needed;

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The proposal resonates strongly with first home buyers struggling to save for a deposit and also pay stamp duty;

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Some stakeholders have concerns about how any reform could impact them;

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The annual nature of the proposed tax raises uncertainty over potential rate increases over time;

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The proposal would benefit people seeking greater mobility who would not be faced with significant transfer duties each time they purchase a property, and

&middot; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; The more people learn about the proposed reform the more comfortable and supportive of the proposal they became.

&ldquo;The first round of consultation and submissions showed 84 per cent of people believe stamp duty reform is needed and two thirds of the community said stamp duty was a significant barrier to home ownership,&rdquo; Mr Perrottet said

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79239]

&ldquo;Making changes to the property tax system is highly complex and we want to make sure we get this right.&quot;

The paper raised the prospect of a lower than advised rate for owner- occupied residential property, but higher for commercial and residential investment properties and unchanged for farmland.

Comments on the additional information presented in the paper can be sent to TaxReformTaskforce@treasury.nsw.gov.au by Friday 30 July 2021.

To read more, <a href="https://www.nsw.gov.au/initiative/property-tax-reform">click here</a>.

The reform proposal resonates strongly with first home buyers struggling to save for a deposit and also pay stamp duty, according to NSW Treasurer Dominic Perrottet

NSW stamp duty reform could prompt short term housing price rises: NSW Treasury

A 253 sqm Darlinghurst development site was the most viewed land/development auction listing on the realcommercial website in May.

The two terrace site is 93-95 Crown Street, Darlinghurst.

It comes with development approval offering a FSR: 3:1 with 22 metres height limit.

The approval for 16 self contained rooms and approx 210sqm of commercial space.

It is currently leased for $161,400 per annum.

<img alt="" height="887" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/crown_dev_plans.jpg" width="1200" />

The land/development category outperformed other categories on views per listing this month on realcommercial.com.au, recording 120% year-on-year growth and a 16% month-on-month increase.

At a national level, &lsquo;Buy&rsquo; searches on realcommercial.com.au are up 34% compared to the same time last year.

There is another Crown Street listing, occupied by City Gym at 107-113 Crown Street, which was listed for sale in March.

It has a land area of 768 sqm with a FSR 2.5 : 1 and height limit of 18 metres.

It is listed through Gunning RE and Colliers.

Crown Street, Darlinghurst site attracts boarding house developer attention

Homebuyers can enjoy savings up to $750,000 by adding just 15 minutes to their daily commute.

By readjusting your search a few train stops further from employment hubs and competitive markets, homebuyers can secure a brand-new off-the-plan property for a fraction of the price.

An extra two minutes on the north-west metro line will save buyers $133,500, with the average Rouse Hill unit price at $668,500, while apartments at Positive Investment Enterprise&rsquo;s Schofields development sells from $535,000 for brand-new two-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93951]

Kew Schofields delivers a balance between privacy and endless opportunity, located in Sydney&rsquo;s fastest-growing region.

It&rsquo;s no surprise that residents hope to live along the new north-west line, which gets commuters from Rouse Hill to Chatswood in a little over half an hour.

However, many buyers are being priced out of apartments in other metro-line suburbs, including Castle Hill, Epping and Chatswood, thanks to growing demand in these areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93223 project_image_fid=152740]

By living 13 minutes further west, <a href="/buildings/rosella-place-stage-1-56-cudgegong-road-rouse-hill">Rosella Place</a> residents can save up to $265,000 on their three-bedroom home, which is offered from $760,000.

This Rouse Hill property is considerably more affordable than the Castle Hill average unit price for three-bedroom apartments, which sits at&nbsp;$1,025,000 according to the REA Group.

On Sydney&rsquo;s Cumberland line, a five-minute train ride towards Leppington lowers one-bedroom apartment prices by $40,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=160996]

One-bedders in Parramatta average at $434,000, according to REA, while Coronation Property&rsquo;s Merrylands development, Mason &amp; Main, offer an affordable apartment at $394,000.

Mason &amp; Main is ideal for investors and young professionals, located in close proximity to the Parramatta CBD and boasting exclusive residential amenities.

Adding an extra 16 minutes of travel time onto your commute into Sydney can save you $253,000 if you swap a two-bedroom apartment in Erskineville for a brand-new apartment at Bloom Arncliffe.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201 project_image_fid=89015]

Erskineville apartments average at $952,000, while the two-bedroom apartments at Bloom, which feature a dedicated study room and private entertaining balconies, are on offer for just $699,000.

In the city&rsquo;s inner-suburbs, securing a three-bedroom unit nine minutes from St James Station can wipe a whopping $767,500 off the price of the same size residence in the Sydney CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30049 project_image_fid=162882]

According to the REA Group, the average three-bedroom apartment in Sydney is $2,307,500, while Mirvac&rsquo;s luxury art-deco inspired residence next to Green Square station is listed from $1,540,000. &nbsp;

The brand-new 121sqm apartment belongs to the Zetland Portland on the Park project, with bespoke curved ceiling details, built-in robes and smart storage solutions.

By readjusting your search a few train stops further from employment hubs and competitive markets, homebuyers can secure a brand-new off-the-plan property for a fraction of the price

How you can save up to $750,000 on a Sydney apartment by adding 15 minutes to your commute

Boutique property developer Fortis and Dare Property Group have spent for $41 million to secure a Point Piper luxury apartment site.

The sydnicate, headlined by Danny Avidan, plan to develop the 2650sq m site with 18 apartments across four levels.

The corner site, opposite the Rose Bay police station and Cranbrook School, is to be known as Piper House, 2a Wunulla Rd.

The deal was revealed in The Australian last month, but they told the Australian Financial Review this week the end product is expected to be worth around $120 million.

Demolition will start in October with construction underway in February next year.

Charles Mellick, director of Fortis expressed confidence that the proposed development will be well-received by Point Piper locals.

<a href="/developments/sydney-nsw?source_news_article_id=102631&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sydney-cbd-_template_4.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

Mellick is currently renovating a heritage F. Glynn Gilling-designed&nbsp;home on nearby Wyuna Rd.

The development site was sold by CBRE&nbsp;agent Ben Stewart who noted there had been nothing of this scale built in Point Piper for &quot;many, many years.&quot;

Point Piper has around 600 apartments and 200 houses according to CoreLogic.

Non-bank lender Pallas Capital, Fortis&rsquo; sister company, will fund the project that has been designed by Luigi Roselli.

The site consolidation was of five apartments and one house at 590-592 New South Head Rd.

The developer Green Wall was proposing a $150 million, 30-unit development after a deal at just under $40 million, but opted not to proceed with the project.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6126]

The syndicate plan to have 18 luxury apartments across four levels on the 2650 sqm Wunulla Road site

Fortis and Dare propose $120 million Point Piper luxury apartment complex, Piper House

Set in the heart of one of Sydney&rsquo;s most prized harbour enclaves, Ashton is a brand-new addition to the Lower North Shore.

Located on Spit Road, this private sanctuary is the epitome of luxury with 14 residences meticulously planned.

Designed by a+ Design Group, Ashton was the winner of the Sydney Design Awards 2020.

Urban takes a look at five reasons you should consider an apartment at Ashton.

1. Developed by Sun Property

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Since its inception in 2010, Sun Property has grown an enviable portfolio of projects, specialising in premium boutique residences and mixed-used developments across Sydney&rsquo;s Lower North Shore.

The developers create engaging places that boast exceptional urban amenities and a quality lifestyle.

Sun Property is a property development company which is dedicated to the creation of quality residential projects

2. Luxurious Residences

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29139 project_image_fid=82424]

Graceful in design and presence, each of the boutique apartments beautifully captures the essence of Mosman&rsquo;s proud cultural heritage.

The architects, a+ Design Group, have tailored the space with light, geometry and proportion, with a unique identity and careful considerations.

The Hamptons-inspired interiors provide a canvas for each residents&rsquo; personal flair.

3. Lower North Shore Location

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29139 project_image_fid=82425]

Ashton sets a new standard for burgeoning developments in Mosman, with a prime position delivering convenience and a community feel.

The development is surrounded by the backdrop of Sydney Harbour and its national park and is just footsteps from the vibrant Mosman village scene.

This includes its beaches, art galleries, grand historic homes, caf&eacute; culture and direct transport to Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.

4. Impressionist-inspired Architecture 

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Ashton&rsquo;s architecture is influenced by the narrative of an impressionist painting.

The project is named in honour of Julian Ashton, a well-established artist in both oils and water-colour known for his romantic figure-paintings and his Australian landscapes.

Artists&#39; camps flourished around Sydney Harbour in the 1880s and 1890s, mainly in the Mosman area making it &quot;Australia&#39;s most painted suburb&quot;, and its iconic shoreline has captured the hearts of many of Australia&rsquo;s most famous artists.

5. Resident Amenities

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The Mosman development features communal amenities for its residents and generous living areas.

Apartments flow into an expansive outdoor terrace or wintergarden, as well as a rooftop garden with views overlooking Sydney and Mosman&rsquo;s surrounding streets.

Among its other features include ground-floor commercial space, basement parking, lift access and full security.

Residences in the complex begin from just $845,000.

Located on Spit Road, this private sanctuary is the epitome of luxury with 14 residences meticulously planned

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