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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Builder Tony Bittar has listed one of Cronulla’s most admired homes, after its eight month makeover.
The futuristic Apollo Gate, the Sutherland Shire's latest waterfront listing, comes with $3.5 million plus expectations having sold snappily for $3.2 million last May.
“If you want a home designed for the rich and famous that will make you feel like a movie star as you look out over the uninterrupted water views, at an affordable price, this is it,” the vendor, builder Tony Bittar, says.
Nicknamed the Cronulla spaceship house, or the White House, it has a reputation that dates back to its completion in the 1970s, with its Reuben Lane design motivated by spiritual and architectural links to Mediterranean villages and with whitewashed buildings clinging to the coastlines.
{qtube vid:=4XvRsyVu0uo}
It first changed hands for $185,000 in 1978 when sold by the Breen family who owned the Metropolitan Sand Company at <a href="/news">Cronulla</a>.
The house at <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/cronulla/1087356/" target="_blank">4-6 Cowra Place</a> has direct access to Salmon Haul Bay.
It featured in NSW Builder magazine, the official journal of the Master Builders' Association, in May 1975 (pictured below). It was built by CH &amp; CR Ellis with spiralling western red cedar ceiling.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3one.jpg" alt="cronullamay3one" width="470" height="391">
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3two.jpg" alt="cronullamay3two" width="470" height="323">
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/cronullamay3three.jpg" alt="cronullamay3three" width="470" height="343">
Reuben Lane, who died in 2012, was inspired by the work of his mentor Oscar Niemeyer, the architect of the capital city of Brazil, Brasilia.
The iconic home has views of the waters stretching across <a href="/news">Port Hacking</a> to <a href="/news">Bundeena</a> and Jibbon Beach in the Royal National Park.
“The property’s free form design makes it truly unique. There’s not a visible square angle in the home and its enviable location on the shores of the Esplanade earns the home’s incredible reputation,” said Ray White listing agent Con Economos.
“The property is what we call a one-off’: a truly spectacular home with an unbeatable location,” said Economos.
It’s a real entertainer’s house, according to the owner, who recently hosted a local artist’s exhibition on site.
The premise at 6 Cowra Place in Cronulla offers five bedrooms plus study, a double garage and two car spaces and guest quarters. There's an atrium lounge, an internal spa, and landscaped gardens. Its four bathrooms’ original tiles are sourced from the same suppliers as the Sydney Opera House.
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Apollo Gate, the 1970s Cronulla spaceship house listed after renovation

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This year is set to see some interesting trends emerge, from changing floor plans to investors and home buyers pursuing different types of stock, according to Secret Agent’s Paul Osborne.
Here are the seven key trends that Osborne is predicting for the property market.
 
1) China is where our future lies
Osborne notes that the future of Australia, and the property market, is less in the emergence of America and Europe but in the success of the Asia Pacific region. He particularly notes that China is one to watch.
"Hot money from Asia seeping into our assets, especially into our capital cities, is likely to increase over the coming years," he said.
"This will have profound implications on real estate prices for the remainder of the decade.
"Foreign investment is having a changing impact on previous fundamentals.”
The expectation:  This year is set to see another surge in Asian investment, as these offshore buyers look for yield and capital protection. The CBD commercial markets in Melbourne and Sydney will see further price records overturned, with local buyers to be outmatched by foreign interests.
You might also want to read <a target="_blank" href="/news">Juwai.com Andrew Taylor's editorial about how Australia is embracing Chinese investment in real estate</a>.
 
2) Density to increase
The changing shape of urbanisation is also on Osborne’s radar as a trend to take note of, particularly as it is irreversible.
With 89% of Australia’s population currently urbanised and the number steadily increasing, suburbia is in decline.
"The Australian dream of a freestanding home, with lawn to mow, is leaving the consciousness of many Australians. Lack of infrastructure, transport, and culture, have made many resist the move to outer suburbia. Instead [they are] opting to live in smaller residences and even rent," he explained.
The push is driven by all demographics, apart from some of Generation X.
“The district of the City of Melbourne which comprises of Melbourne CBD, Carlton, Docklands, East Melbourne, Kensington, Flemington, North Melbourne, Parkville, Port Melbourne, Southbank, South Yarra and West Melbourne; only have a combined population of just over 100,000 people, within these most convenient locations. This geographical area is two thirds the size of Manhattan with just a fraction of the people,” he said.
The expectation: More people will opt for the convenience and the low-maintenance attraction of city living, with the bare minimum being downsizers choosing to live in the amenity/proximity rich areas within their own suburb to start with. The apartment preference will continue.
This news article has a look at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/diverse-dwelling-densities-needed-urban-taskforce/2013092665321">a call from the Urban Taskforce into increasing diversity in housing supply densities</a>.
 
3) New apartment buildings to see their ‘best days’
With city towers increasing in a number of cities, Osborne warns that the main issue is that many of these apartments are not suited to the local demographics.
Similarly, warehouse living has been a property type that has gathered momentum and buyer interest over the past few years, particularly in the edgier locations.
"Making the best of vertical space is seeing many storage and mezzanine levels being installed into these homes," he said.
The expectation:  New apartment buildings are expected to see better days, providing they can up their game in terms of providing the right floorplans. He points to aesthetics, position, quality and larger floor plates as the important aspects.
Here, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Houseplanology's Sam Crothers explains what it takes to create a good floorplan</a>.
 
4) Household formation changing dramatically
Solo living, less children per couple, and higher divorce and separation rates are already resulting in fewer people per household, he said.
The demand for a lower number of bedrooms per home, with higher demand for larger rooms, such as living spaces and bedrooms, is already in place.
"Local preferences for housing stock will still gravitate around the existing group of period stock. Yet, awareness of the heavy upkeep and renovation costs are becoming more widely known, and this is increasing demand for contemporary property. We also note increased interest in the post war brick veneer within city fringe positions due to their solid structures and more accommodating floor plans," he explained.
The expectation: An increase in demand within the CBD’s fringe suburbs and the CBD. Apartments are to become the default option as houses become out of reach for many.
Houshold formation was one of a number crucial points in this <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/room-for-debate-is-australia-s-housing-market-under-or-oversupplied/2012092556795">head-to-head about housing supply between BIS Shrapnel's Angie Zigomanis and Michael Matusik</a>.
 
See over page for his final three forecasted trends
 
 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
 
More forecasts
5) The availability and cost of credit
Inexpensive credit is fuelling credit growth in certain sectors, while others show signs of deleveraging, he said.
"Australia’s headwinds include deleveraging and reduced foreign investment if Asian economies start to falter. If this were to happen simultaneously it would lead to falling prices," Osborne noted.
The market is currently splintered, with inner city areas having lower debt residents, and outer areas holding down more vulnerable jobs with higher debt.
The expectation: An increasingly pronounced split between the "haves" and the "have-nots", with credit being the amplifier in the system.
Observer Catherine Cashmore looked at the widening gap between the "haves" and "have nots" in <a target="_blank" href="/news">this piece about housing policy reform</a>.
 
6) Local investment to grow in SMSFs and yield to become the focus
Local investments have seen strong interest in SMSFs over the past few years, with investors increasingly pursuing yield.
"Leased assets within the residential and commercial property market have been hotly contested as bank interest continues to disappoint," he said.
The expectation:  In the long-term, these investments should slow with interest rate increases and political pressure likely to begin restricting super funds from buying property.
The average borrowing of an SMSF is now at $357,000, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/finance/smsf-average-borrowing-at-%24357000-but-not-irresponsible-spaa/2014011367177">according to the SMSF Professionals' Association of Australia, who claim that it isn't irresponsible</a>.
 
7) Commercial market demand shifting to vibrant spaces
The type of space wanted by tenants and owner occupiers in the commercial market has already undergone several shifts.
With many office buildings currently needing a complete refit to meet the current working environment, especially with its growth as a retention tool, there have been many efforts to relocated to more vibrant locations.
Similarly, more workplaces are becoming mobile, with hotdesking becoming common as work forces are increasingly flexible.
"Natural light, break out areas and spaces that allow for greater collaborations have become vital for the modern corporation," he said.
The expectation: Funky well-located office spaces, such as converted warehouses, to become the sought-after stock.
We had <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/oct-1-flicker-3-highrises-and-high-fashion-171-collins-street/2013093065382">a walkthrough of one of the latest innovative office spaces in Melbourne, 171 Collins Street</a>.
 
jduke@propertyobserver.com.au
 
 
 
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Seven key trends to emerge in 2014’s property market: Secret Agent

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Predictions about what is to come in the real estate market are a hot topic for most property enthusiasts, investors and home buyers.
Whether it’s the economists, buyer’s agents, real estate agents, commentators or mum and dad at the barbecue, everyone likes to give it a guess. We also love to revisit the predictions and see just who got it right, and who got it wrong.
See <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/how-2013-s-predictions-held-up-we-put-them-to-the-test/2014011267166" target="_blank">how the predictions for 2013 held up when we put the experts’ forecasts to the test earlier this year</a>.
However, what if we take it to someone who isn’t a real estate expert, but who does predict for a living – such as a psychic medium?
Sharlene, a psychic from Sydney’s western suburb <a target="_blank" href="/news">Minchinbury</a>, has been put to the test by Sydney Real Estate TV and Just Think Real Estate’s Edwin Almeida, for Property Observer.
Almeida asked Sharlene her predictions for 2014's Sydney market, and then narrowed in on what the spirits are telling her about the prestige market.
Here is what happened:
{qtube vid:=RuxCxUsQMRQ&amp;feature=youtu.be}
For <a href="/?option=com_googlesearch_cse&amp;q=just%20think" target="_blank">more videos and stories from Sydney Real Estate TV, see this collection</a>.
She tips property prices to stay stable, before an increase towards the end of the year. She doesn’t see a drop as particularly likely. Her belief is also that the million dollar plus properties may be harder to sell, and this is set to get harder towards the end of the year.
Almeida agreed with Sharlene about the multimillion dollar properties.
What do you think?
 
{module Do you think that Sharlene's predictions will come to pass?}
 
We will have the opportunity to speak to Sharlene again. What other property questions would you ask her?
Let us know your expectations for the market: jduke@propertyobserver.com.au
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A psychic predicts what is to come for Sydney’s property market

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More than $100 million of property, or 177 apartments of the 220 available, saw contracts exchanged this weekend at the launch of New South Wales' <a href="https://wooloowarebay.com.au/residential.php" target="_blank">Woolooware Bay town centre and residential community development</a>.
The Sutherland Shire development is on land owned by the Cronulla Sutherland Leagues Club, and is on a 10-hectare site. In total, it will have 600 apartments, a Sharks Club and a 17,700 square metre retail and medical centre.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2014/02/03/woolooware-bay-feb-3-one.jpg" alt="woolooware-bay-feb-3-one" width="470" height="316">
The Saturday, February 1 launch was a ‘VIP’ event, and registrations of interest are now open for the next apartments in the Waterfront Release, which face the bay.
The weekend launch saw first home buyers, young families, downsizers and retirees purchasing the apartments. In total, 95% were local buyers.
Prices ranged from $450,000 for one-bedroom apartments, $575,000 for two-bedroom apartments and from $860,000 for three-bedroom apartments.
Managing director of Bluestone, Ben Fairfax, said that the interest was significant and had caused them to extend the original release, of Esplanade – a building with 91 apartments – to include the 47-apartment Pavilion and 82-apartment Sea.
“We had a large amount of interest from the local community when the vision for the master plan was first unveiled. The enquiry has continued to grow as the project moved through its planning and approval process and our purchasers today have waited patiently for the first chance to buy,” Fairfax said.
The sales team had taken 2,000 registrations of interest, with 200 gathered over Christmas.
Chairman of landowner Cronulla Sutherland Leagues Club, Damian Keogh, said that the town centre will provide a boost for the Club and the future of Sharks Group. The Club itself, 461 Captain Cook Drive, <a href="/news">Cronulla</a>, will be able for public use as a conference space.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2014/02/03/woolooware-bay-feb-3-two.jpg" alt="woolooware-bay-feb-3-two" width="470" height="416">
The apartments include timber laminates, feature panels and stone benchtops.
Shared facilities will include a rooftop Sunset Cinema and W Club, a lagoon pool, and a barbecue area.
The town centre space is still seeking tenants to lease, however cites that the final product will include a full-line supermarket, fresh food retailers, “eat street” restaurants and cafes and services/lifestyle stores. It will have 770 car parking spaces.
Bluestone's personnel have been involved with the redevelopment of a number of waterfront sites, such as Woolloomooloo Bay Wharf, Rhodes Waterside, Balmain Cove in Sydney's Inner West and other major developments, such as Norwest Business Park.
Norwest Business Park took a spot in this <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/new-south-wales-top-five-developments-of-the-past-50-years/2013090664825" target="_blank">list of New South Wales' Top Five developments of the last 50 years</a>.
Construction on the shopping centre is expected early this year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/jduke@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
For the latest development listings, brought to you by Property Observer and partners, see our <a href="https://showcase.propertyobserver.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Investor Showcase</a>.
Images are artist impressions.
 
 
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Sydney’s newest waterfront town centre Woolooware Bay sees $100 million of sales on first day

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 76 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of February 1. The clearance rate was 80.3%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

APM's Sydney 76 auction results show a 80.3% clearance rate

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Nearly $6 million of super invested in self-managed super funds are at risk, after Charterhill Group’s Nova Real Estate Proprietary Limited has been placed in voluntary administration.
Heard Phillips have been appointed as administrators of Nova Real Estate and liquidators for another Charterhill Group entity, Lending Solutions.
The sole director of both companies is George Nowak, the chief executive of Charterhill Group.
Despite this, the Charterhill Group and other related entities are said not to be impacted.
The first creditors’ meetings were held on January 31.
Speaking to The Advertiser, Andrew Heard from Heard Phillips said that the investors impacted are mostly based in Victoria and New South Wales.
"As a result of the appointment there are approximately 140 investors in Nova with funds totalling just over $6 million and less than 20 investors in LSI with funds totalling just over $1 million exposed to loss," Heard said.
George Nowak completed his accounting degree in 1980, worked at Deloitte Haskin &amp; Sells, then Delfin Property Group Limited, and has previously been featured at the <a target="_blank" href="https://archive-au.com/page/1055553/2012-12-24/https://www.homebuyershow.com.au/speakers/george-nowak/">Home Buyer and Property Investor Show</a>.
Have you been affected or know something more? Email: <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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Almost 140 property investors’ SMSF funds at risk as Nova Real Estate put in voluntary administration

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After a long weekend, it has been a week absolutely packed with real estate news and changes. How closely were you watching this week?
 
1) What did our entire panel of experts predict for the Reserve Bank movement next Tuesday?
2) Scammers are getting more technologically savvy, and there's a new letter being sent to international landlords trying to trick them into sharing private details. Which government department's name are they using?
3) Which capital city's property market (particularly inner city units) is expected to soar, before pulling back around 2015/2016?
4) A gorgeous trophy property was recently sold in Mittagong in New South Wales' Southern Highlands for $4.95 million. The rural offering has locals believing that it has been bought by a famous couple - who are they? Hint: Think about horses
<img class="decoded" alt="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/stories/2014/01/28/mit/mittagong_0009_10.jpg.jpg" src="/images/stories/2014/01/28/mit/mittagong_0009_10.jpg.jpg" width="400">
5) The Block started this week, and while it had a lot of us watching it failed to beat another show when it came to debut ratings. Which show was this?
6) Hing Loong, the apartment block pictured below, has construction beginning and is ready for sales. However, where is it located?
<img class="decoded" alt="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/stories/2014/01/29/chin/chinatwon_0000_exterior_01.jpg.jpg" src="/images/stories/2014/01/29/chin/chinatwon_0000_exterior_01.jpg.jpg">
7) We were recently sceptical about a claim that said investors and home owners could spend a few thousands dollars and add themselves up to $75,000 worth of value by doing this one thing. What was this?
8) Over the past year in Victoria, Robert Larocca told us that the median rent had increased by how much for a house? Bonus points if you can remember the amount for a unit.
See over page for answers
 
 
 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
 
THE ANSWERS
1) <a target="_blank" href="/news">No change.</a> However, some differed on their opinion of what might occur in the future.
2) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/ato-scam-alert-fake-landlord-tax-exemption/2014013067441">The Australian Taxation Office (ATO)</a>
3) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/investor-warning-brisbane-apartment-prices-expected-to-soften-in-2015/2016/2014012967432">Brisbane</a>
4) <a target="_blank" href="/news">Gai and Robbie Waterhouse</a>
5) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/cheesy-but-mkr-beast-the-block-loft-renovation-opening-night-ratings/2014012767377">My Kitchen Rules</a>
6) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/construction-begins-at-sydney-chinatown-development-hing-loong/2014012867404">Chinatown, Sydney</a>
7) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/analysis-can-laying-turf-really-increase-your-propertys-value-by-%2475000/2014012867406?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=polloftheday">Laying turf</a>
8) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/melbourne-rental-increases-only-moderate-compared-to-sydney-and-yields-have-stabilised/2014012967390?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=ourobservers:adviceandanalysisforreaders">$10</a> (and $8 for a unit!)
news@propertyobserver.com.au
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Property Trivia: Reserve Bank predictions, unit markets jump, celebrity Mittagong sale

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I am not the only property commentator tipping Sydney's house price growth was likely to slow to around half the pace of last year.
After news today of Sydney house prices rising almost 6% in the last quarter of the year, Australian ­Property Monitors economist Andrew Wilson says prices just can’t keep growing at that "supercharged" level into the medium term.
The Sydney market will likely record around half the price growth of 2013, he has suggested.
<img src="/images/stories/2014/01/30/insights-jan-30-one.gif" width="470" height="281" alt="insights-jan-30-one">
Sydney’s median house price increased by an "exceptional" 15.1% or over $100,000 in 2013 to a record $763,169.
"This was the strongest calendar year growth in house prices recorded since 2003," he said. Unit prices rose by 4.3% over the quarter, up by 10.9% annually.
Earlier this month I suggested <a href="/news">the likelihood of growth slowing in Sydney during 2014</a>.
Wilson reckons Melbourne will be lucky to get half the growth it had this year, with most of that with the first half of the year.
<img src="/images/stories/2014/01/30/insights-jan-30-two.gif" width="470" height="354" alt="insights-jan-30-two">
Melbourne house prices rose solidly by 3.2% over the December quarter with unit prices up similarly by 3.1%. APM puts Melbourne house prices up 8.6% over the year with units increasing by 6.8%. The Melbourne median house price sits at $568,824, exceeding its previous June 2010 previous peak. The median unit price of $421,759 also reflects a new record.
APM had house prices around the country ending the year on a strong note, with prices in every capital city finishing the December quarter higher than the previous period for the first time since 2009.
The national median house price surged 4% to a record high of $597,556, up 9.8% annually given record low interest rates.
"The national house price growth reflects an extraordinary contribution from Sydney," Wilson said.
But a weaker economic forecast, a lower Australian dollar, combined with rising unemployment and inflation was likely to keep flatten the price growth momentum.
Although end of year buyer momentum in all markets will ensure a positive start to 2014, affordability constraints and waning economic activity will act to moderate prices growth through the year.
He forecasts the Perth market will remain "solid" this year while Brisbane house price growth is set to "accelerate."
"Adelaide, Canberra and Hobart, however, will continue to record modest prices growth over 2014 with most activity again likely to be over the first two quarters of the year."
Wilson also warned the prospect of an oversupplied local investment market in capital cities that had a surge in investor activity last year.
“The current level of price growth in Sydney is unsustainable - particularly given the likely continued deterioration of the local economy and the prospect of a flood of new rental properties overshooting underlying market fundamentals,” said Wilson.
<a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
 
 
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After a $100,000 annual gain, "supercharged" Sydney set to lose half its price growth momentum: APM's Andrew Wilson

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Just Think Real Estate's Edwin Almeida was out in Sydney, for Sydney Real Estate TV, in a strata block just outside of Parramatta undergoing an investigation.
Looking at the basement carpark of the complex, that he had been to 18 months previously, he noted that nothing has changed here. There are still computers, chairs, couches and general rubbish piled high. Almeida expressed his concern to Property Observer that it is not only taking up parking space of others residents, but it is also a fire and hygiene hazard.
Investors - ensure that if you are buying, or if you're having an inspection undertaken during ownership, you have the carpark looked at as well. If you find that your investment property is kept in a similar state as the video below, it's time to start asking questions and getting it cleaned up. You may find that if a prospective buyer or tenant in the future stumbles on a similar mess, they may not be willing to move in, affecting your return and vacancy rate.
{qtube vid:=WM1VXVrBnZ0&amp;feature=youtu.be}
How would you handle this situation?
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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VIDEO: Ensure you check the basement car park

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Despite common arguments that tenants having 'all the rights' will deter investors from buying, the Tenants' Union of NSW has hit back, saying that it appears that any regulation or slant from the legislation isn't keeping investors out of New South Wales.
Discussing claims made by the Real Estate Institute in 2010 that regulation in the Residential Tenancies Act might cause investors to "think twice about becoming a residential landlord", they noted that regardless of the statement investment in residential property is at an all time high.
In the REI's preliminary submission on the draft Residential Tenancies Bill 2009, they'd noted that the property market in New South Wales must be kept attractive for both NSW and external investors.
However, the Tenants Union argued that research consistently shows that the rights of tenants and landlords are far down the list when it comes to decisions to invest or disinvest in property and that, in fact, we're at a high in terms of money sitting in residential investment properties.
Have concerns about the Residential Tenancies Act ever stopped you or someone you know from purchasing?
<a target="_blank" href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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