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

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a> and Homes NSW have taken the next major step in the transformation of Waterloo Estate, lodging a Concept State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning proposal for the renewal of Waterloo South.

The proposal, now on public exhibition, outlines plans for around 3,300 new homes across the 12.3-hectare precinct. A minimum 30 per cent of residential gross floor area will be delivered as social housing, approximately 20 per cent as affordable housing, and a maximum 50 per cent as market housing. The redevelopment would more than quadruple the number of homes currently on the site and more than double the existing supply of social and affordable housing.

The renewal of Waterloo South forms the first stage of the broader Waterloo Estate transformation and is set to unfold over the next 10 to 15 years. The estate currently contains 750 social housing dwellings and 120 private homes.

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba2da34b-171b-4ff1-b0c7-4baf0bce97f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public.png?VersionId=S5apPKOqjPHJhk_SzCvdVPxsEBYs300o" />

The proposal, prepared by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> and Beam Planning, spans 10 street blocks bounded by Cope, Raglan, George, Wellington, Gibson, Kellick, Pitt and McEvoy Streets, directly adjoining the Waterloo Metro Station precinct and within walking distance of Redfern and Green Square stations.

Under the masterplan, building heights would range from two to 33 storeys, delivering approximately 282,485 sqm of residential floor space alongside at least 10,000 sqm of non-residential uses and a minimum 5,000 sqm of community space. The planning framework has been specifically structured to support the mixed-tenure outcome, with the residential gross floor area capped at a maximum 50 per cent market housing allocation.&nbsp;

The Urban Design Report describes the vision as creating “a unique and vibrant mixed-tenure housing precinct that supports the needs of the community and delivers much needed housing in response to National and State Government priorities.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6e1a6d8b-0626-4fa7-94fc-aa91c0af86dc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/waterloo%20per.png?VersionId=duyiJTFOeezTNdM22leI3SoHuqnW6ZaY" />

A major focus of the revised proposal has been increasing the social and affordable housing component. The Minns Government increased the affordable and public housing allocation from 35 per cent to 50 per cent after coming to office in 2023.

Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said the changes were critical to maintaining Waterloo’s social diversity.

“When we came to government, we immediately reviewed the plans for the Waterloo renewal and boosted the number of public and affordable homes from 35 to 50 per cent,” Jackson said.

“This was a crucial step to ensure Waterloo remains a welcoming place for people from all walks of life to call home now and into the future.”&nbsp;

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the project would reshape the precinct for generations.

“This concept DA brings thousands of new public, affordable and market homes on the doorstep of the Waterloo Metro station another step closer to reality,” Scully said.

“Importantly, alongside the new homes the plan also proposes new open space where residents and the broader community can gather, relax and play.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Stockland and Homes NSW unveil plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="867520cb-6e07-4204-885e-53793ac88066" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20public%20a.png?VersionId=lgSI85Q23xBLYLC9NcWKuWZY2HfP4zQ3" />

Stockland Managing Director and CEO Tarun Gupta said the project had been shaped around long-term liveability and community infrastructure.

“As delivery partner, Stockland is proud to be working with the NSW Government on the renewal of Waterloo South – a significant project with community at its heart,” Gupta said.&nbsp;

The planning documents place strong emphasis on “Designing with Country,” recognising the site’s location on Gadigal land. The masterplan incorporates new east-west pedestrian links, activated streetscapes, rooftop communal spaces, retail frontages, and landscaped public areas intended to improve permeability and community connection throughout the estate.&nbsp;

The proposal also seeks to establish a more flexible planning framework for future detailed SSDAs, including updated provisions for educational uses, creative industries, rooftop communal areas, and active frontages. A minimum seven per cent of residential floor space will be delivered as affordable housing managed in perpetuity by community housing provider City West Housing.&nbsp;

The Social Impact Assessment prepared by Urbis describes the renewal as one of Australia’s most significant public housing transformations, identifying substantial long-term positive impacts associated with housing supply, accessibility, public domain improvements, and community infrastructure.&nbsp;

Stockland and Homes NSW have already commenced the first stage of resident relocations, with some tenants moved into newly completed homes at Waterloo Metro Quarter and the Boronia development nearby.

First look: Stockland, NSW Gov, unveils plans for 3,300-home Waterloo South renewal

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

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The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

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Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

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Smith by Valli delivers design-led apartments to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

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Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

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Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

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The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

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Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

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The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

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Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

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The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

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MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

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.

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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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Headingley House, the Woollahra home of John Spender QC, is set for sale.

It was his diplomat father, Sir Percy Spender, who bought it from the Kater pastoralist family in 1949 for £11,676.

About two years ago Russell Crowe and Danielle Spencer were allowed through Headingley House when Spender first thought he might get something like $18 million.

Its latest listing is through Ben Collier at McGrath.

The dapper Queens Counsel, who now does commercial arbitration, moved into the stunning Georgian-style Wellington Street residence in 1985. While he was the Member of the House of Representatives for the seat of North Sydney he would occasionally take the trip from his eastern suburbs home to the lower North Shore electorate in his late father's white Rolls Royce.

His politician father, an eminent jurist, had left his bar practice in 1949 and entered the Federal political arena when the Liberals took office and Sir Percy Spender became minister for external affairs, during which he negotiated the ANZUS Treaty. He then was posted to Washington in 1951 as Australian ambassador and in 1958 was appointed Australia's first judge of the International Court of Justice and in 1964 became its president.

Woollahra has had six sales above $10 million since 2007.

The record is a Rush Street compound for $16 million in 2008 which McGrath agents James Dack and Ben Collier secured for the Pagent family. It was a three-terrace Rush Street amalgamation spread over 588 sq m. The $16 million compound was bought by Rosanne Williams, partner of John Grill, from the oil and gas engineering firm Worley Parsons. During the Pagent family ownership, it had been extensively renovated by architect Alexander Tzannes, having traded in 1999 for $2.75 million

Last year's highest sale was $10.6 million.

The Kater pastoral dynasty headed by Sir Norman was centred around the 1900 Federation Cudal property Nyrang. Sir Norman, who was trained as a doctor, then took over the Egelabra Stud at Warren in 1910.

He died in 1965.

<h2>Latest listings on Urban:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29048]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27406]
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

John Spender's Woollahra Headingley House set for sale

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Kalaurgan, the renovated, heritage-listed, gothic revival-style Moss Vale property, remains for sale but with reduced price expectations. Shena Jackson, the former sports industry executive, will now take $995,000 for the Southern Highlands property.
Some $1.4 million was sought in 2009, then $1,275,000 in 2010 and $1.15 million in February 2011.
It’s the residence that Mary MacKillop occupied in the 1880s, according to the marketing campaign, which hasn’t worked miracles.
The 3,768-square-metre Browley Street property, which last traded at $860,000 in 2008, has been listed through Victoria Morish and Susannah Anderson at Di Jones in conjunction with John Renouf at Highlands Property.
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No miracles for Mary MacKillop's former Moss Vale property: Most Discounted Trophy Home of the Week

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Craig-Lea, which sits on a 561-square-metre holding in Glebe’s Toxteth estate, has been listed for sale.
It has undergone a major recent sympathetic renovation, which has triggered its $3.8 million-plus hopes.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-glebe-nsw-2037/136357/?searchID=13369623">six-bedroom Mansfield Street residence</a>, which comes with three Travertine bathrooms, has a distinctive "barnfloor" Dulux paint colouring exterior.
It’s been listed for February 25 auction through Michael Glynn at McGrath Estate Agents.
It last sold at mortgagee sale by Westpac in 1996 at $625,000. It’s a late Victorian, probably late 1880s, which sat neglected for a considerable time. For the greater part of the last century it was a boarding house.
The McGrath website gives two Glebe comparables – a $4.2 million <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-glebe-nsw-2037/93966/?searchID=13369459">six-bedroom 1886 Toxteth Road  house</a> on 607 square metres sold in April last year.
There was also a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-glebe-nsw-2037/137132/?searchID=13369582">five-bedroom Arcadia Road house</a> on about 450 square metres that sold before its December auction at an undisclosed price but is understood to be about $3.8 million.
The median sale price for houses in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Glebe </a>is $975,000, according to RP Data.
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Glebe's Craig-Lea listed with $3.8 million-plus hopes after much-needed reno

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The National Market
This year is set to be a year of recovery and consolidation for most Australia property markets, but Sydney is predicted to be a better performer of the capital cities.  Some areas will enjoy solid growth driven by latent demand or resource drivers while other areas will languish.  Last year’s market was dominated by natural disasters, mixed economic signals and fragile consumer sentiment.  Australian Property Monitors noted that national median house prices were down by 4.2% but are predicted to rise by 3% to 5% in 2012.  Sydney’s median house price only declined -0.9% last year compared with -3.1% in Brisbane, -1.2% in Melbourne, -2.2% in Perth, -1.4% in Adelaide and -3.5% in Darwin. 
The national economy is set to grow strongly on the back of mining and resources sector.  Treasury estimates are for around 3% to 4% growth in GDP (much to the envy of the developed world). Immigration is likely to increase as the demand for skilled workers intensifies from economic growth.  This will flow onto increased housing demand. Affordability will continue to be an issue for households on average incomes.  However, interest rates are likely to decline in the first quarter of this year, which will improve market confidence and turnover. I’m tipping around a 0.5 percentage point reduction in rates this year. 
The traditional spring selling season in 2011 did not eventuate. It was more of a fizzle and pop with lacklustre results. Auction rates hovered around 50% to 60% during 2011. Year on year results from October showed Sydney’s median house price fell 2.3% as reported by Australian Property Monitors. In contrast, Rismark International house price model recorded a 0.5% decline in median house prices over the year to the end of November. Sydney was one of the most resilient property markets of all capital cities over 2011. Brisbane and Melbourne recorded 7% and 5.6% decreases over the same period. Rismark International recorded a very small 0.1% increase in national house prices in November, which is signaling a projected rebound in property prices. 
The Sydney market
The <place><city>Sydney</city></place> market for 2012 looks more positive. Sydney has several reasons to smile compared with other states:
<ul>
<li>NSW and Sydney is still the most fundamentally undersupplied market (we need approximately 60,000 extra dwellings but we are currently only building half that).</li>
<li>Interest rates are set to fall at least another 0.5 percentage points.</li>
<li>Unemployment remains low at 5.2% so job security is helping mortgage holders pay down more debt and increase their equity buffer. However, with uncertain global financial markets unemployment may nudge upward to 5.5%. </li>
<li>The NSW government is getting on with the job of rebuilding transport infrastructure (and not just re-announcing it in press releases). The north-west rail link is first major infrastructure project to get the go-ahead. This will benefit the north-west area around Castle Hill significantly. </li>
<li>The Barangaroo project has commenced to revitalise the commercial dock areas on the west side of the city.</li>
<li>Commercial property values are also predicted to rise on the back of previous inactivity. </li>
<li>Sydney’s climate, lifestyle and natural attractions continue to place the city as one of the best places to live in the world – it’s hard to beat the early morning swim or surf on the way to work!</li>
<li>
<city><place>Sydney</place></city> is poised for more growth on the back of latent demand from upgraders and downsizers that have been sitting on the sidelines. </li>
<li>Rents have been rising strongly due to low vacancy rates around 1.3% on average. </li>
<li>Overall, 2012 is set to be a year of recovery for the property market. </li>
</ul>
I’m tipping that Sydney’s median price will rise by around 5% in 2012 given falling interest rates (and barring any other catastrophic economic event). This growth will largely come from the lower to middle segments of the market. 
The prestige market will continue languish – providing excellent opportunities for upper-end buyers. With a subdued share market, the level of executive bonuses is limited and buyers are cherry picking the stock that is available at the top end of the market. 
The potential impact of fallout from the European debt crisis continues to plague consumer confidence. If credit markets are affected, then property price growth will be subdued in <country-region><place>Australia</place></country-region> because the cost of bank funding will be higher.  If credit flows more easily then property prices have more ability to rise. 
Where to buy…
The east is likely to have a subdued year ahead, making it an opportune time to enter this market if you want to buy with less competition. The inner west of Sydney will continue to perform strongly due to price differential with the eastern suburbs. It contains a host of suburbs ripe for renovation and its proximity to the city is favourable to commuters looking for a shorter journey to work. 
Pockets on the northern beaches and north shore with median prices under $1 million will also do well, as “affordability” is one of the key factors driving demand for dwelling types.
Sydney’s western suburbs are likely to outperform the middle- and inner-ring suburbs on a percentage basis as they are coming off a low base. We are finding and creating excellent positive cashflow opportunities for savvy property investors in these areas with yields up to 10%. 
Good quality apartments close to the CBD will continue be in high demand as downsizers, professionals and first-home buyers compete for limited stock of established properties.
Rich Harvey is founder and managing director of Sydney buyers' agency <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertybuyer.com.au/">PropertyBuyer</a>
For more expert predictions on what lies in store for Australia's property markets in 2012, download our free eBook <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-property-forecasts-for-2012">Property Forecasts for 2012</a>.
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rharvey-JMQneTqnM9

Outlook good for Sydney's property market in 2012

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The chairman of the Commonwealth Bank, David Turner, and his wife, Julia have upgraded Mosman abodes, without the bother of finding finance for the new home. They pocketed $5.7 million and spent exactly $10 million on their unencumbered beachfront reserve house.
It was bought from the Royal Bank of Scotland's head of Australian equities operations, Randolf Clinton. Turner was appointed to the Commonwealth Bank board in 2006 and has been chairman since February 2010. His extensive experience in finance, international business and governance has included Cobham Plc, Brambles Limited and Mobil Oil.
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Commbank boss David Turner upgrades in Mosman without a mortgage: Title Tattle

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The dispute between billionaire iron-ore tycoon Gina Rinehart and her daughter Hope Rinehart Welker has spilt over into real property.
Hope Rinehart Welker has lost her directorship of the company 150 Investments Pty Ltd, the family entity that owns the Sydney residential home of Hope and her husband, Ryan Welker.
The contemporary non-waterfront residence in Mosman with city skyline views <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/mosman-home-potentially-caught-in-gina-rinehart-dispute/2011090951485">was bought in 2007 for $5.4 million</a>.
Rinehart Welker became a co-director of the family company in September 2007, her first directorship within the Rinehart family companies, which run Hancock Prospecting.
It’s been reported that Rinehart Welker vacated her four-bedroom, four-bathroom Bradleys Head Road house after the dispute commenced between the Rinehart siblings and their mother. The Welkers are believed to have gone overseas in October 2011.
The Clarksville, American-born, London-educated mining executive Ryan Welker, who celebrated his 30th birthday last month, has yet to officially notify any change of address on ASIC documents regarding his private directorship.
Gina Rinehart remains a director of 150 Investment with her daughter Ginia appointed as the replacement director for Hope and sister Bianca, who both lost their directorships, according to paperwork lodged with the ASIC on January 27. The change of company directorship officially took place October 31.
The Australian speculates that daughter Ginia may take up residence in the Mosman house.
In September, three siblings, Bianca, Hope and John Hancock, launched proceedings against their mother in the New South Wales Supreme Court to remove her as head of the family trust, the Hope Margaret Hancock Trust.
The trust at the centre of the legal battle was set up by Lang Hancock for his four grandchildren.
It was nine years ago that Rinehart had a falling out with her son, John, who changed his name by deed poll to John Hancock. John was forced to vacate the family-owned apartment in Perth when  his mother put it on the market in 2003. He took legal action in an attempt to claim a share of the Hancock family trust, describing in a court affidavit his mother as "a very powerful and controlling person".
Rinehart’s total fortune estimated at $10.3 billion, and according to BRW’s valuation in May, is now put at closer to $20 billion.
Her <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/title-tattle-australian-columnist-janet-albrechtsen-downsizes-to-%245-million-bronte-semi/2011072250883">family’s most recent purchase was a neighbouring $7.85 million riverfront Dalkieth property</a>, which was bought in June through 156 Investments Pty Ltd.
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Rinehart dispute triggers Mosman mansion movement 

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Estate agent John McGrath has sold his redundant Walsh Bay apartment on Sydney Harbour for $5.5 million, falling slightly short of his purchase price and $6.45 million listing hopes.
The 243-square-metre Hickson Road apartment – renovated after its 2009 purchase – comes with a 17.5-metre boat berth.
It last traded at $5.5 million for the apartment and $450,000 for the boat berth in late 2009 when bought from Michael Hagerty. It represented a mild 7.5% drop on last sale price.
McGrath recently took the opportunity of subdued pricing at the prestige end of the property market to upgrade to a pricier $6.95 million apartment, his third upgrade within the landmark complex.
The $5.5 million sale was through McGrath agent Richard Shalhoub, whose prior Walsh Bay sales efforts had warranted McGrath to post a testimonial for the agent on the company’s website.
It’s still there, saying: “I have a company with what I think are the best sales agents in the country, but I chose Richard to sell my home because he sells Walsh Bay better than any other agent in Sydney.
“He loves Walsh Bay and focuses there exclusively which are two key factors, and his success rate at attracting and selling buyers from other areas into Walsh Bay is second to none.”
The apartment, with 50-square-metre terrace, first traded for $3.7 million off the plan in 2000 and the berth initially sold at $190,000. The new owners took occupancy in 2003 after the conversion by the Mirvac-Transfield syndicate.
There had only been seven apartment sales – including two off the plan – at more than $5.5 million before the latest sale.
They included the record when mortgage industry entrepreneur John Symond secured $16 million in 2006, having knocked two three-bedroom apartments into a super-pad. His Walsh Bay apartment had 520 square metres of living space plus a 140-square-metre balcony and two boat berths.
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John McGrath finds Walsh Bay prices have been watered down: Title Tattle

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Robert Morgan, chairman of Clemenger Communications, and his wife, Vanessa, have sold their four-bedroom Woollahra residence, Attunga Lodge.
It was listed in February 2011 with $6 million-plus hopes through Michael Pallier from Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay, but more recently at around $5.5 million.
The house has been refurbished since it was bought for $5.06 million in 2007 from Mark Chiba from Asia-Pacific advisory outfit, the Longreach Group. The five-bedroom 1868 home on an 1,100-square-metre block in Attunga Street, was given a major renovation in the late 1980s by developer Bill Shipton, putting a two-storey addition around the original 19th-century home, which he bought from investment banker Paul Espie for $800,000 in 1988.
Morgan moved up from Clemenger's Melbourne office after Greg Daniel stepped down in the late 1990s. The Morgans’ earlier Sydney bolthole was a Paddington terrace, bought for $2,175,000 in 2003 and sold in 2007 at $2.81 million.
Morgan, whose career was made marketing Campbell’s soup, has most recently spent $8 million to buy on Sydney Harbour according to the Land Titles Office official transfer document.
The Point Piper acquisition was bought from Pierce Cody, the entrepreneurial adman who went onto establish and sell Macro Wholefoods, and his wife, Toni. With views across the Royal Motor Yacht Club, it had last traded in 1997 for $3,262,500. It sold through Alain Waitsman and Bill Malouf.
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Clemenger Communications boss Robert Morgan sells in Woollahra: Title Tattle

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Despite having unfashionable reputations due to swathes of unattractive McMansions and fibro cottages, western Sydney suburbs like Liverpool, Blacktown and Penrith are making appearances on hotspot lists primarily because of investments in infrastructure, job creation initiatives, new residential developments and more affordable properties. The most recent list of the 50 suburbs with the greatest capital growth potential featured in Smart Property Investment magazine included four western Sydney suburbs. Rental yields of between 5% and 6% are also encouraging investors to consider these outlying parts of greater Sydney.
Location: 
Western Sydney comprises 14 local government areas extending from Auburn (19 kilometres west of Sydney) all the way to the Blue Mountains (50 kilometres away). Prominent residential suburbs include Blacktown, Liverpool, Bankstown, Parramatta, Campbelltown and Penrith.
Key demographics:
Western Sydney is one of Australia’s largest urban areas and home to just over one in 11 Australians. It has a population of about 2 million people and is growing at a rate of about 36,000 people per year (1.8%), slightly higher than the average growth rate of 1.7% for the Sydney metropolitan region.  Western Sydney’s population is forecast to reach 2.9 million by 2036.
It is an extremely diverse, migrant-rich part of Australia, with half of the world’s nations represented among its residents. In the Fairfield municipality alone, more than 70 different languages are spoken, while Auburn is home to people from more than 100 nations.
It is popular with young families and has a younger population than Sydney. More a third of residents (37.3%) in western Sydney are 24 or younger.
Western Sydney spans the social spectrum and includes areas of prosperity, enterprise and innovation and some areas of disadvantage.
Infrastructure, jobs and residential developments:
The NSW government aims to improve already strong transport links between western Sydney and the Sydney CBD. In its 2011-12 budget it allocated $314 million to develop the train line between Epping and Rouse Hill, while the south-west rail link is already under construction and due for completion by 2016. It will provide train services operating to Liverpool, the Sydney CBD, and Parramatta.
Two areas within western Sydney (the north west and the south west) have been earmarked as major residential growth centres over the next 25 to 30 years with plans for 181,000 dwellings. The north-west growth centre is approximately 10,000 hectares and includes the suburbs of Baulkham Hills, Blacktown and Hawkesbury with plans for 70,000 new dwellings at Rouse Hill.
The south-west growth centre is within the boundaries of Liverpool, Camden and Campbelltown and is made up of about 17,000 hectares with capacity for about 110,000 new dwellings.
As part of its Sydney Metropolitan Plan, the NSW government is looking to increase employment in western Sydney with the development of the Western Sydney Employment Area located near the intersection of the M4 and M7 motorways. The zone is expected to eventually accommodate approximately 40,000 workers and is located close to western Sydney’s north-west and south-west growth centres.
The property numbers you need to know:
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
Population
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
Median house price
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
Gross rental yield
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
Median unit price/yield
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
Gross rental yield
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
Distance from Sydney
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Blacktown
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
39,000
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
$376,000
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
5%
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
$285,000
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
6%
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
34 kms
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Liverpool
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
21,000
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
$400,000
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
5%
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
$250,000
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
6%
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
32 kms
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Penrith
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
11,300
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
$335,000
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
5%
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
$247,000
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
6%
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
50 kms
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Rosemeadow
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
7,400
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
$312,000
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
6%
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
n/a
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
n/a
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
56 kms
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="124" valign="top">
Sydney
</td>
<td width="105" valign="top">
4.5 million
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
$550,000
</td>
<td width="71" valign="top">
4.5%
</td>
<td width="104" valign="top">
$453,000
</td>
<td width="31" valign="top">
5.2%
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Current state of the market
SQM Research director Louis Christopher describes Blacktown as having a good ratio of income to house prices with income growth rising quickly due to changes in demographics. Vacancy rates are just 1.1%. Furthermore Blacktown has good transport connections to Sydney via rail and motorways.
Similarly, the vacancy rate in Liverpool is just 1.4%, with prices of houses and units still affordable compared to Sydney and the ratio of income to house prices is good. Liverpool is on four Sydney railway lines.
Vacancy rates in Penrith are just 0.6%, the suburb has very good income-to-house price ratios and has excellent rail and motorway links to Sydney. Christopher describes Penrith as “a good safe option for investors”.
Douglas Driscoll, CEO of Starr Partners, expects the western Sydney market to get stronger with new suburbs and shopping districts appearing, businesses establishing and settling in the area, transport connections improving and large master-planned residential developments are appearing. “No other area in Sydney is seeing that amount of change so quickly,” he says.
A further indication of the strong appeal of western Sydney, the regional hub of Liverpool recorded the highest number of buyers applying for stamp duty exemptions during December 2011, ahead of the NSW government limiting concessions to those buying newly constructed houses and units. Second on the list was Blacktown, followed by Westmead, Campbelltown and Parramatta.
Reasons to consider buying/investing:
<ul>
<li>Growing population, new residential developments and businesses coming into the area</li>
<li>Popular with middle-income earners and young families</li>
<li>Multiple rail and motorway connections to Sydney CBD and being expanded.</li>
<li>More affordable houses than in Sydney</li>
<li>Rental yields of between 5% and 6% generally higher returns than available in Sydney  
</li>
</ul>
Reasons to consider not buying or investing:
<ul>
<li>Not fashionable suburbs</li>
<li>Still fairly significant commuting distances from Sydney</li>
<li>More vulnerable to declines in the economy and rises in unemployment – it maintains its reputation as Australia’s mortgage repossession belt with a higher proportion of lender repossessions in Western Sydney compared to rest of NSW</li>
<li>Crime is still an issue in some parts highlighted by a recent spate of drive-by shootings in Parramatta, Holroyd, Auburn and Bankstown areas</li>
<li>Still overrun with McMansions</li>
</ul>
What property analysts are saying about Western Sydney:
Louis Christopher: ''The western suburbs will likely outperform the rest of Sydney and Sydney out perform all capital cities [in 2012].''
''Increasingly investors are seeing that Sydney's west might offer just as much capital growth as Sydney's inner ring but at the same time they're going to get higher yields and fairly high rental growth as well,''
Douglas Driscoll: “There will continue to be infrastructure growth, new developments and rental yields of 5% to 6% in greater western Sydney. Investors will continue to head west, lured by affordable property with high returns and higher stock levels.”
Hotspotting.com.au director Terry Ryder: “The Blacktown area grew in popularity throughout 2009 and 2010, with lower-end buyers targeting it as an affordable area with good transport links, making it Sydney's most popular area for home sales. The upgrade to parking infrastructure at several train stations in the Blacktown area adds to its appeal.”
Two potential investment properties up for sale:
Homeland Real Estate Liverpool is selling <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-liverpool-106561070">this 385-square-metre, four-bedroom townhouse on Memorial Avenue</a> close to the Liverpool CBD with an asking price of $469,000. The townhouse is currently returning weekly rent, of $485 equating to a yield of around 5.4%
<img src="/images/stories/auburnhouse.jpg">
Roy Halabi from Guardian Property Specialists is selling <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-auburn-108598416">a four-bedroom penthouse apartment across from Auburn train station</a> with distant city views (pictured below) with an asking price of $450,000. Halabi says the property has the potential to charge weekly rent of $550, equating to a yield of about 6.4%
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Hotspots: From fibros to McMansions, western Sydney attracting investor attention

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Actor Nicole Kidman has scheduled a February auction to offload the last piece of her beachfront holding on the NSW far south coast. Kidman purchased the Rosedale holding as part of a $4 million outlay on the coastal strip in 2004. She has already recouped $3 million selling two of the properties to Canberrans.
The last portion is a vacant 1,009-square-metre block. It had been for sale since 2008 at $1.2 million plus through Michael Skuse of LJ Hooker Batemans Bay, who now has scheduled the property for February 11 auction.
Its LJ Hooker marketing says there are “stunning views of Rosedale Beach and Jimmys Island from this gorgeous beachside block”.
It has 21 metres of beach frontage on Knowlman Road.
“It’s the kind of land you will hold for generations,” Skuse’s marketing suggests.
It was 2004 when Angus Hawley, Nicole's then brother-in-law, first swooped into town by helicopter to bid on the rare beachfront offering offered by the Knowlman farming family from Goulburn, who had paid £35 in 1929.
Rosedale locals say Kidman has been there only a handful of times since 2004. Buyers are being told to expect to pay around $800,000.
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