For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

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?

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Bloom Arncliffe, the residential precinct in Southern Sydney, has finished its construction.

The 318 apartments across seven buildings are ready for occupation, as part of the $136 development which also features 36 commercial spaces and a youth centre with basketball courts, a gym and support facilities.

Developer Wingate had Richard Crookes Construction handle the construction of the mixed-use development at 213 Princes Highway, only 11km south of Sydney.

<img alt="" height="1493" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bloom_2.jpg" width="2000">

NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler toured the project upon its completion.

EJE Architecture designed the seven residential towers, which home a mix of one, two and three bedroom apartments.

Each apartment features a kitchen with its own walk-in pantry, spacious island benches and the latest integrated appliances.

All apartment living areas are spacious, with modern floor-to-ceiling joinery, and plenty of room for entertaining.

Take a tour of a Bloom Arncliffe apartment.

<h2>PRICING</h2>

One bedroom, one bathroom, one park apartments start from $595,000

Two bedroom, two bathroom, one park apartments start from $710,000

Three bedroom, two bathroom, two park apartments start from $950,000

<h2>BLOOM ARNCLIFFE AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer: Wingate

Architect: EJE Architecture

Builder: Richard Crookes Constructions

Location: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205
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Bloom Arncliffe, Sydney finishes construction

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Charter Hall has taken a 100 per cent interest in the Sydney CBD tower block currently leased to Telstra.

Their Charter Hall WALE Limited, a responsible entity of the Charter Hall Long WALE REIT, has paid $281.5 million for the 76-78 Pitt Street building, which will be leased back to Telstra on a 10-year, triple-net agreement at a yield of around 4.75 per cent.

Telstra will see a fixed annual rent increase of 2.5 per cent.

Avi Anger, fund manager of CLW, said the property has a high underlying land value and future optionality.

Charter Hall's REIT has also entered in to an agreement to take a 100 per cent interest in a new Bunnings property to be developed in Caboolture, in Queensland's Moreton Bay region, for $28.1 million.

The REIT have also announced they've completed the acquisition of a 49.9% interest in an Endeavour Group leased pub the Parap Tavern in Darwin, paying for $9.8 million.

“Bunnings Caboolture and the Parap Tavern are located in strong trading areas and identified growth corridors for Bunnings and Endeavour Group," Anger said.

"The acquisitions increase the proportion of triple net leases in the portfolio from 50% to 53% and increase the proportion of fixed rent reviews to 55%, further supporting the REITs secure and growing income.

"The Acquisitions also increase CLW’s exposure to high quality tenants in Telstra, Endeavour Group and Bunnings.”

The REIT will undertake a fully underwritten $250 million institutional placement to partially fund the acquisitions and associated transaction costs.

 

 
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Charter Hall acquire 100% stake in Sydney's Telstra building

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A raw development site in Sydney’s inner south-west has sold in Belmore.

The 685sqm site, which presents a residential development opportunity, was purchased by local residential developer Amira Property Investment.

Comprising a vacant residential dwelling, the site will be able to provide three to four townhouses or residential apartments under its current R4 high-density residential zoning.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/33_lucerne_street_belmore.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/33_lucerne_street_belmore.jpg?itok=YGax1tA9" width="580"></a>

Formerly owned by the Leigh family of Belmore, the site included a large rear garden and off-street parking for two to three cars.

Savills Australia’s Ollie Ridley and Nick Lower negotiated the deal who said the opportunity was highly sought after by residential developers looking to convert the site into a new townhouse or duplex development.

Capitalising on the growth of Belmore, many developments are rising up in the inner south-west suburb surrounded by residential housing.

Amira Property aims to develop the site into duplex homes.

<h2>Other new residential developments in Sydney’s inner south-west</h2>

Located less than 30 minutes by train to Central, Belmore is becoming an attractive location for developers and homebuyers alike due to its tight-knit community and the incoming Belmore metro station.

Other new developments in Belmore include Cornerstone and Aura, which are catering to the suburb’s substantial population growth.

Delivered by ALAND, Cornerstone is a five-level residential development on Canterbury Road in Belmore, offering 141 one, two, and three-bedroom residences.

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore-878ef8fc74989d642ed6f7290a0038f3.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore-878ef8fc74989d642ed6f7290a0038f3.jpg?itok=ObyotR6t" width="580"></a>

Apartments in the complex include recessed balconies, high ceilings and open-plan kitchens, as well as amenities such as ground-floor retail spaces and parkland.

Down the road in Canterbury, AURA is offering one-bedroom apartments from just $588,000. The homes include contemporary design, entertainers’ balconies and large courtyards.

Designed by Glyde Architects, AURA includes open district and city skyline views, designer stone kitchens and wood texture cabinetry throughout.

A security storage cage is available for all residents, making the home a smart decision for owner-occupiers and downsizers.
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The site will be able to provide three to four townhouses or residential apartments under its current R4 high-density residential zoning

max.kwok_55688

Raw development site sells in Sydney's inner south-west

<html><body>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/house-price-growth-outstrips-income-growth-nearly-three-fold-affordable-housing-group/2011091951592" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/147.jpg"></a>
The amount by which <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/house-price-growth-outstrips-income-growth-nearly-three-fold-affordable-housing-group/2011091951592" target="_blank">house prices have increased over the past decade,</a> according to new lobby group Australians for Affordable Housing. Incomes increased by just 57% during the same period.
<hr>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/rural-property-prices-stabilising-as-%2420-million-sale-buoys-market/2011091951595" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/20m.jpg"></a>
The sale price of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/rural-property-prices-stabilising-as-%2420-million-sale-buoys-market/2011091951595" target="_blank">Ballarat grazing property Trawalla</a>. The sale has buoyed an otherwise depressed rural market.
 
<hr>
 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/rural-property-prices-stabilising-as-%2420-million-sale-buoys-market/2011091951595"><img src="/images/stories/2point275.jpg"></a>
The price hopes for rugby league player<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/darren-lockyer-gives-brisbane-market-a-try-but-can-t-get-his-house-over-the-line/2011092051611"> Darren Lockyer's Brisbane house</a>. Lockyer put the property up for auction in early August but has been unable to find a buyer.
 
<hr>
 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/clive-palmer-buys-distressed-golf-courses-at-discount/2011092051616" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/7m.jpg"></a>
The reported price of the Robina Woods and Colonial golf courses, which <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/clive-palmer-buys-distressed-golf-courses-at-discount/2011092051616" target="_blank">mining boss Clive Palmer bought this week. </a>The golf courses went on the market in July after Playmore Golf went into receivership.
 
<hr>
  
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/gant-makes-fashionable-entrance-to-woollahra/2011092151638"><img src="/images/stories/160k.jpg"></a>
The annual rent at the new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/gant-makes-fashionable-entrance-to-woollahra/2011092151638">Gant store in Queen Street, Woollahra.</a> The menswear store is moving to premises vacated by Robert Burton, who is moving across the street.
 
<hr>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mining-town-prices-booming-but-vulnerable/2011092251647"><img src="/images/stories/12point7.jpg"></a>
 
The indicative gross <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mining-town-prices-booming-but-vulnerable/2011092251647">rental yield in mining boomtown Port Hedlund</a>. Tim Lawless, head of research for RP Data, says mining towns can be attractive prospects but warns that they are unstable investments.
 
<hr>
 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/listing-of-%2411-million-could-smash-paddington-record/2011092251645" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/11m.jpg"></a>
The price hopes of a property<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/listing-of-%2411-million-could-smash-paddington-record/2011092251645" target="_blank"> listed by the Leal family in Paddington</a>. If the property sells for that price it would smash the previous Paddington record of $7.75 million.
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

The 7 must-know numbers of the week

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/ringoffire.jpg">
– <a target="_blank" href="/news">Moody's senior analyst Arthur Karabatsos</a> describing the suburbs where a high proportion of householders had fallen behind on their mortgages. He notes Sydney was the nation's worst-performing mortgage market.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Quote of the week

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/36point1.jpg">
The estimated conditional sales price agreed for the <a target="_blank" title="Centro Newton Plaza" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/centro-sells-adelaide-shopping-centre-following-brisbane-settlement/2011092051630">Centro Newton Plaza in Adelaide</a>. Centro says the conditional sale was achieved at price above the June 30, 2011 valuation, which is recorded as $36.2 million. At this valuation price, it reflects a yield of 10% based on gross annual rent of $3.6 million. The centre, part of Centro’s MCS 37 Syndicate, is located at 84 Gorge Road in Newtown, four kilometres southwest of the Adelaide CBD. 
<hr>
 
<img src="/images/stories/40m.jpg">
The amount <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/wellington-intercontinental-sold-for-nz%2450-million/2011092051615">a New Zealand-based investor has paid to acquire Wellington’s five-star InterContinental Hotel</a>, the top commercial sale of the year to date across the Tasman.  The hotel was put up for sale in June this year by Sydney-based owner Eureka Funds Management, with Jones Lang LaSalle Hotels appointed to market the property.  The sale was negotiated by Jones Lang LaSalle executive vice-president Dean Humphries and senior vice-president Ross Beardsell.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/10point3.jpg"> 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/centro-sells-adelaide-shopping-centre-following-brisbane-settlement/2011092051630">The estimated yield achieved following the sale of Centro’s Whites Hill Centre in Camp Hill, Brisbane</a> for $15.5 million to a neighbouring landowner. This price is $200,000 above the June 30 2011 independent valuation. Whites Hill was built in 2003. It attracts gross annual rent of $1.6 million, has gross lettable space of just under 4,000 square metres and is anchored by Woolworths.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/7m.jpg"> 
The mount Queensland billionaire and mining supremo <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/leisure/clive-palmer-buys-distressed-golf-courses-at-discount/2011092051616">Clive Palmer is believed to have paid for the Robina Woods and The Colonial golf courses</a> on the Gold Coast. The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/babcock-and-browns-queensland-golf-course-investment-caught-in-the-rough/2011070750736" target="_blank">courses were put on the block in July</a> under instructions from McGrathNicol, receivers and managers of Playmore Golf Pty Ltd. Playmore acquired them in 2002 for $7.8 million from the American Golf Corporation. The golf courses were marketed on behalf of receivers by Mark Witheriff and Paul Nyholt of CBRE, with McVay Real Estate’s Will and Sam McVay.
 
<hr>
<img src="/images/stories/86point75.jpg"> 
The amount Altis Property Partners paid for the St. Leonards Corporate Centre on the Sydney North Shore. The two-four level office buildings, warehouses and 22 industrial units formed part of the unlisted Orchard Diversified Property Fund. The sale was negotiated by Ian Hethrington and Darren Curry of Savills and Graham Russell and Matt Lee of CBRE, the Australian Financial Review reported.
Know of a commercial sales deal? <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">Let us know</a>.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Commercial hammer prices

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More than one million people in NSW are being invited to have their say on how laws can be changed to improve the experience of the growing number of people living and working in strata communities.

Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said community consultation was now open as a crucial part of the statutory review of both the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 and Strata Schemes Management Act 2015.

“With the continued surge in popularity of apartment living we expect over half the population of Greater Sydney to be living in strata titled apartment towers, townhouses and blocks of flats by 2040,” Mr Anderson said. “There are now 81,717 strata schemes registered in NSW and every year this number grows by more than 1,000 across both Sydney and regional NSW.

“It is important that the laws covering strata living stay relevant and address some of the fundamental issues that might be stopping people from fulfilling the great Australian dream of home ownership. “The Government’s landmark 2015 reforms modernised strata living, but we know there is more to do.

"In particular, we know more needs to be done to ensure that apartment buildings are well maintained and remain free of building defects over their lifetime so that owners aren’t left out of pocket by tens of thousands of dollars. That’s why we will be seeking feedback on changes that would require owners to disclose critical information about programmed maintenance, capital works spending and defects.”

Mr Anderson said feedback was also being sought on a new digital Strata Portal that will capture mandatory information for each strata building in NSW and make it available to the regulator to ensure compliance with fire and other important safety requirements.

“Strata schemes are integral to supporting NSW’s growing population and housing boom. As more and more people choose to call NSW home, strata living holds the key to encouraging growing cities and urban development which is why this review is so important to ensure we make strata living more appealing,” Mr Anderson said.
</body></html>

Community consultation is now open as a crucial part of the statutory review of two the strata scheme acts



Strata laws in New South Wales to be reviewed

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The NSW Government’s stamp duty change may leave many commercial property owners “worse off”, according to property valuation firm m3property.

Owners of less valuable properties may potentially pay more than double after ten years.

Jennifer Williams, the firm’s national director of research, said it was unclear whether the new property tax would achieve its aims.

“We agree that change is required to make the NSW tax system fairer, simpler and less volatile and a broad-based property tax is a good option to achieve this”, she said.

“The devil is in the detail, however, and it is yet to be seen whether an opt-in system will achieve the simplicity the Government seeks or reduce the current revenue volatility given most commercial purchasers are unlikely to opt-in.”

Many purchasers are likely to be disadvantaged by the proposed new system, given the average length of commercial property ownership in NSW is greater than ten years, mp3property suggested.

A hypothetical case study found that after ten years the owner of a property with a market value of $2 million would pay $144,937 under the current system, and $298,061 under the new system.

<img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="296" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m3property.png?itok=HUV0PWBm" width="580">

Whilst the burden on commercial owner-occupier operators appears to be higher for the proposed property tax, stamp duty must also be taken into consideration.

For investors who buy and sell more often, the choice of which tax route to take may be more complicated.

However, the impact on purchasers is likely to vary on the type of purchaser, the property’s land value, the length of time the investor retains the property, and which option a buyer takes at purchase, property tax or stamp duty and land tax.
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Many purchasers are likely to be disadvantaged by the proposed new system, says property valuation firm m3property.

NSW stamp duty change likely to leave many "worse off"

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The penthouse at Fortis’ No.1 Carlisle development in Sydney’s Rose Bay, which was rumoured to have sold for an impressive $7.5 million last month, sold in less than three hours of launch.

Ray White agents Michael Finger and Di Wilson are rumoured to have secured $39,000 per sqm for the three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment.

Situated on the top floor of the four-storey 1 Carlisle Road complex, the development offers direct lift access into the private lobby, an entertainers’ terrace and built-in living joinery.

Designed by MHNDU and Lawless &amp; Meyerson, the home utilises layered natural materials and an architectural design that pays homage to the Art Deco period.

“There’s a recurring linear texture echoed around the apartment through fluted glass and routed stone”, said Jo Lawless of Lawless &amp; Meyerson.

The penthouse includes an entertainer’s kitchen, gas fireplace, butler’s pantry and skylights. Other features within the home include a privately-landscaped rooftop terrace styled by Wyer &amp; Co landscape architects.

Construction on the project is expected to reach completion in early 2022.

<h2>Rose Bay luxury residences</h2>

The downsizer market in Rose Bay has boomed with many developments gracing the eastern Sydney suburb. These include the recently sold-out Newcastle Street development, The Benson and Richmond Rose.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/the-benson-33-newcastle-street-rose-bay?last_source_news_article_id=41288&amp;ref=news_related_project" rel="gallery-all" title="The Benson"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="481" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-benson-33-newcastle-street-rose-bay-64799b46e7e39113cb2e87135af83a7d.jpg?itok=HEYEdtMw" title="The Benson" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Benson</figcaption></figure>Developed by Fortis, prices at the nine residence Benson project equated to $30,000 per sqm, with designs also completed by MHNDU and Wyer &amp; Co. The home’s interiors, which offered contemporary design, quality fixtures and pale-oak flooring, were designed by Hecker Guthrie.

Veteran children’s TV presenter Don Spencer purchased in the development just last month.  

Richmond Rose, developed by Kew Prestige, continues to offer available apartments at their 6-8 Richmond Road site.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/new-apartments/6-8-richmond-road-rose-bay" rel="gallery-all" title="Richmond Rose"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/richmond-rose_outside_lge-scaled.jpg?itok=cgwWtAp-" title="Richmond Rose" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Richmond Rose</figcaption></figure>Two three and four-bedroom apartments sit on each level, featuring open-plan dining, a pet wash bay on the ground floor and Tesla battery for power storage.

Lush balcony landscaping seems to be a feature of all new Rose Bay developments with The Aristocrat of Rose Bay also featuring foliage in the design.

Located at 62A Dover Road, the Aristocrat offers 22 two and three-bedroom configurations, a grand lobby, communal courtyard, a pool and a gym. Designed by PBD Architects, the homes include quality joinery, open-plan living and dining, spacious balconies and herringbone floors.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/the-aristocrat-of-rose-bay-62a-dover-road-rose-bay?last_source_news_article_id=41288&amp;ref=news_related_project" rel="gallery-all" title="The Aristocrat"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="398" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the_aristocrat.jpg?itok=OSf3L21a" title="The Aristocrat" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The Aristocrat</figcaption></figure>Rose Bay is located just seven kilometres east of Sydney and these developments provide evidence of the demand for new luxury developments in the area.
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The downsizer market in Rose Bay has boomed with many developments gracing the eastern Sydney suburb

Rose Bay's No.1 Carlisle penthouse sells within three hours

<a href="/developers/keco">Keco City Development Group (Keco)</a> has started construction on its $145 million <a href="/buildings/seymours-residences-989-1015-pacific-highway-roseville">Seymours Residences</a> mixed-use project, comprising 112 prestige apartments at the gateway to <a href="/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a> and <a href="/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a>, in Sydney&#39;s North Shore.

Architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="/architects/bvn-architecture">BVN</a> has designed the project, in collaboration with&nbsp;Marchese Partners International. The seven storey development features a mix of apartments and five commercial spaces on the ground level.

There are eight manicured gardens throughout the development, with an additional&nbsp;two roof top gardens on level five complete with barbecue facilities.

<img alt="" height="1333" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/02._elevated_exterior_cmyk.jpg" width="2000" />

<a href="/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a> has been appointed to build the project. Edward Doueihi, Managing Director of <a href="/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a> comments.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Seymours Residences prime location and visionary design will ensure it becomes a prominent landmark development straddling two of Sydney&rsquo;s North Shore suburbs. Approximately 1,000 workers will be employed during the construction phase. Demolition recently started and the main work is expected to commence this month. Over the past two decades, the Ceerose name has become synonymous with constructing boutique residential buildings that epitomise luxurious living.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

Sergio Spagnuoli, General Manager at <a href="/developers/keco">Keco City Development Group</a>&nbsp;said,

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Seymours Residences paves the way for future developments with its focus on quality materials and attention to detail, while connecting to nature through its extensive manicured gardens irrigated by harvested water. It is designed for tomorrow with solar panels providing clean energy, electric vehicle chargers in the basement carpark and a cloud-based building management system, giving a glimpse of where Keco is setting its direction for the future.&rdquo;
</blockquote>

<img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/05._seymours_residences.jpg" width="1080" />

<a href="/buildings/seymours-residences-989-1015-pacific-highway-roseville">Seymours Residences</a> is located within a short walk from <a href="/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a> (900m) and <a href="/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> (650m) train stations as well as the future Sydney Metro which has trains heading to the CBD every four minutes. Ten of the top 70 NSW HSC ranked schools are within a seven kilometre radius. The second largest retail centre in Sydney with nearly 500 stores combining Westfield Chatswood and Chatswood Chase is a short 950 metres away.

One hundred and twenty-six residential car parking spaces are available for residents, 24 visitor bays, including 5 with EV charges, and 22 car spaces for the commercial area.

Completion is anticipated mid-2022. The on-site display suite is located on the corner of the Pacific Highway and William Street, Roseville.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="1080" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/06._seymours_residences_rooftop_garden_1.jpg" width="1080" />

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27702]

Keco City Development Group has started construction and has appointed builder Ceerose for its $145 million Seymours Residences in Chatswood and Roseville.

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