One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

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>

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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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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november8trincomalee]}
Trincomalee, an 1890s stone and timber house on 4,300 square metres at Lovett Bay, Pittwater, has been listed for sale with price hopes of more than $3 million. It was owned for many decades by the Foy retailing family.
On Rocky Point between Elvina and Lovett bays, Trincomalee was once often visited by Juanita Nielsen, the Kings Cross newspaper proprietor who disappeared in the 1970s during the fight to save Victoria Street, Potts Point. It’s been listed for sale by the Macorison family through Mary Rowley of Belle Property Mona Vale-Bayview.
It last traded when the Macorisons paid $135,000 in 1978 to the executors of the estate of the late Neil Smith, the father of Juanita Nielsen. It comes with a self-contained cottage, studio, boatshed, jetty, sandy beach and rock pool, all in a pristine bushland setting.
In the 1880s the area was a prolific orchard of figs, lemons, oranges, grapes and olives. Pittwater was popular with Sydney's early retailers.
Maritana, another 1920s Pittwater retreat at Elvina Bay, was built using jarrah, kauri and spotted gum by the Gibsons of retailers Foy &amp; Gibson. Set on about a 240-square-metre holding with 52-metre waterfront, boatshed, jetty and beach, the Vogue Living-featured residence traded in 1992 at $1 million when bought by recruitment executive Chris Aston James and his wife, Angela, from furniture maker Antony Loneragan and his wife, Elaine, who engaged local architect Dermer Bennett after it was traded at $324,000 in 1983.
It was built 1891 by the Stefani family. As one member was a pianist it came with elevated music room. It was bought by the Mark Foy family in 1926, who changed its name from the Red House to Trincomalee – meaning a view from three points – after they holidayed in Ceylon.
 
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Juanita Nielsen's former Pittwater holiday home, with Foy retailing links, listed for sale

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Academy Award-nominated actor Toni Collette, the star of the TV series United States of Tara, and her musician husband, David Galafassi, are selling their hillside house at Bronte because the renovation rebuild costings defied property logic.
Their 1885 weatherboard cottage on a 750-square-metre block in Bronte Road cost $4.4 million in mid-2009. They’ve since obtaining rebuilding approval, but have opted not to proceed given the rebuild construction tender quotes are understood to have tallied about $4 million.  The official application with Waverley Council suggested its minimal revamp cost would be $2.5 million.
Set privately above the high side of the street, the four-bedroom house is one of the last remnants of the original Bronte Estate. Given the current top-end market conditions aren’t resplendent with sunshine, its McGrath Estate Agents listing agent Bethwyn Richards has given public estimates she expects the property to sell for about $3.5 million and that Collette and Galafassi are prepared to cop a $900,000 loss.
It’s one of three Bronte Road houses currently listed through McGrath. There are unconfirmed rumours the couple have bought elsewhere in Sydney.
The Bronte house was bought a month before the sale of their Bellevue Hill home for $6.35 million to Adelicia Dawson-Damer and her husband, Nick Harding through McGrath agents Ben Collier and James Dack. The bullish $6.34 million bucked the prestige property market's woes during 2009. The 1928 Spanish Mission-style cul-de-sac house, El Mio, cost $5 million in 2004 when sold by Patricia Power, who had expanded the house since she bought it in late 1998 from one-time Brambles director Emmett Hobbs and his wife, actor Sarah Pierce, for $2.655 million.
Before heading back to Los Angeles, Collette and Galafassi, parents of six-month-old son Arlo and three-year-old daughter Sage, recently stayed in Bronte but rented the redundant house of media tycoon Lachlan Murdoch and his wife, model Sarah, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/lachlan-and-sarah-murdoch-re-list-their-bronte-house/2011092251653">which is currently for sale</a> through Christies International.
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Toni Collette set to cop $900,000 loss as Bronte cottage renovation plans shelved 

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Thoroughbred horse owner Tony Huang has listed his Greencliffe, Kirribilli, apartment, some 16 years after being introduced to the waterfront block by the horse trainer Gai Waterhouse.
With iconic views of the Opera House, it’s positioned on the Kirribilli foreshore comprising 262 square metres with a spacious free-flowing design. The living, dining and casual sitting/breakfast room open to the entertaining terrace.
It has level entry from Kirribilli Avenue and lift access to its double garaging.
All three bedrooms have en suites.
Greencliffe, a tightly held building at the Harbour Bridge end of Kirribilli Avenue, comes with common garden areas, a resort style indoor pool, gym and sauna.
Ben Stewart of CBRE is seeking offers over $5.5 million for the fifth-floor apartment with offers due by November 24.
Huang, who raced Magic of Sydney, paid $2.3 million off the plan in 1995. At the time, Huang, formerly an importer-exporter from Hong Kong, had about 25 horses with Waterhouse.
The first horse he co-owned in Australia was All Our Mob, who was sold to Huang and Waterhouse's late father, Tommy Smith, after his Stradbroke Handicap win in 1994.
The Waterhouse family still maintain ownership within the complex. The Waterhouse waterfront links stretch back to the First Fleet, with their forefathers operating the Milsons Point-to-Hornsby bus, the Kirribilli-to-Circular Quay ferry, then the nearby Imperial Hotel. In 1994 the racing family netted about $8.2 million after the sale of two properties, Craiglea and Greencliffe. The family simultaneously secured four of the 39 apartments constructed by Dr Stanley Quek’s Greencliffe Developments.
RP Data doesn’t show a sale on the block since 2007, when $8.25 million was paid for a 349-square-metre eighth-floor penthouse.
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Thoroughbred owner Tony Huang lists pedigree Kirribilli apartment that celebrates the Magic of Sydney

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Four Winds, the Byron Bay hinterland property with main residence and two rental villas, has been listed through David A. Perez at Villa Prestige Properties.
The two-hectare holding has been listed by former Sydney publican Rick de Leede and his partner, Helen. They left Sydney in 2003 after owning and running the inner-city Rose Hotel in Cleveland Street, Chippendale, for 11 years. Four Winds is reached via a 150-metre driveway off Old Byron Bay Road at Coopers Shoot. It has six bedrooms, six bathrooms and three kitchens. Vaulted timber walkways connect the villas and main residence. The estate has views of Cape Byron lighthouse, Lennox Head and beyond.
Rick De Leede, who paid $2.3 million in 2003 and listed it with far greater hopes in 2008, is the brother of Tony de Leede, owner of Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat on the Gold Coast. He hopes to secure $5 million plus for the property.
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Byron Bay property Four Winds re-listed

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Property Observer has compiled a calendar of deadlines to ensure you don’t miss out on potentially saving thousands on your home or land purchase:
December 31, 2011 – BuildBonus, Northern Territory
<a href="https://www.housingnt.nt.gov.au/Buy/buildbonus/index">This $10,000 grant ends on New Year’s Eve</a>. It is available to home buyers and investors, including companies and trustees, that sign a contract to purchase or build a new home (including for a house-and-land package), or unit (including off the plan) or commence construction of a new home as an owner-builder by this date. The value of a new unit or new home or the total construction cost of a new home (including the value of the land on which it is built) is capped at $530,000. The BuildBonus is available to first-home buyers in addition to the first-home owner grant. This means that eligible first-home buyers are eligible for assistance of up to $17,000.
January 1, 2012 – First Home Plus, NSW
It will be either a very happy start to the New Year or a depressing one for some NSW first home buyers depending on whether they have reached agreement yet on buying their first property. New Year’s Day signals the end of the <a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/benefits/first_home/faqs/fhplus1/">First Home Plus scheme</a>, which kicked off in April 2004. It provides eligible purchasers with stamp duty exemptions on homes valued up to $500,000 and concessions on stamp duty for homes valued between $500,000 and $600,000 as well as exemptions for those buying a vacant block of residential land to build upon valued up to $300,000 and concessions on stamp duty for vacant land valued between $300,000 and $450,000. For a property priced at $500,000 the stamp duty saving amounts to $17,990, and on a $300,000 property the saving is $8,990.
From January 1 it will be replaced by the <a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/benefits/first_home/faqs/new_home/">First Home - New Home Scheme</a>, which provides stamp duty concessions or exemptions only for new homes or vacant land intended to be used as the site for a new home.  No stamp duty is payable on new homes valued up to $500,000 and vacant land up to $300,000 while concessions apply for new homes up to $600,000 and vacant land up to $450,000.
 January 31, 2012 – Building Boost Grant (contracts), Queensland 
This is the deadline to qualify for the $10,000 <a href="https://boost.treasury.qld.gov.au/">Building Boost</a>, which applies to contracts entered into buy or build a new house, townhouse or unit under $600,000. The boost is also available for the purchase of an investment property. The grant kicked in on August 1, 2011 and led to a 16% spike in Queensland building approvals in the first month. For homes and apartments bought off the plan, the building work must be completed by July 31, 2013.” For owner builders, laying of foundations must start before this deadline.
June 30, 2012 – Victoria First Home Bonus
Up until this date, first-home buyers in Victoria who qualify for the federal government’s First Home Owner Grant may also be eligible for an additional payment of $13,000 known as the <a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/sro/SROnav.nsf/childdocs/-6BF180369BCB3975CA2575A1004420CF-65A02CC2EEDDD527CA2575A1004420E8?open">First Home Bonus</a>. To be eligible to receive the bonus, the value of the property must not exceed $600,000 for contracts entered into between July 1, 2009 and June 30, 2012.
June 30, 2012 – Victoria Regional Bonus
Up until this date, an extra bonus of $6,500 is available when a first-home buyer enters into a contract to purchase or construction of a new home in a <a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/sro/SROnav.nsf/LinkView/DBFEE9B4136A31E1CA2575CB00012C3265A02CC2EEDDD527CA2575A1004420E8">regional municipality in Victoria</a>. This is addition to the $13,000 First Home Bonus.  <a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/sro/SROnav.nsf/LinkView/DBFEE9B4136A31E1CA2575CB00012C3265A02CC2EEDDD527CA2575A1004420E8">A list of eligible regional muncipilaties is provided here</a>.
July 1, 2012 - First home bonus grant (reduced), South Australia
From this date, South Australia’s <a href="https://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/fhog/index">first-home bonus grant</a> of up to $8,000 will be halved. The grant applies to contracts to purchase or build a new home.
July 1, 2012 - First home bonus grant, South Australia
From this date, South Australia’s first home bonus grant of up to $8,000 will be abolished. 
July 31, 2013 – Building Boost Grant (off the plan), Queensland
For homes and apartments bought off the plan, the building work must be completed by this date to qualify for the $10,000 Queensland Building Boost Grant
June 30, 2015 – NSW Regional Relocation grant
This is the date by which all applicants must have entered into an agreement to purchase a home within a regional area to qualify for the <a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/benefits/rrg/">$7,000 Regional Relocation grant</a>. The grant is designed to assist buyers with the cost of relocating from their metropolitan home to a regional home. The metropolitan area means the local government areas of the Sydney metropolitan area, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Gosford, Wyong, Wollondilly, Wollongong and Newcastle. The grant kicked off in July 2011 and applies to homes valued at not more than $600,000.  All applicants must occupy the regional home as their principal place of residence for at least 12 continuous months within 12 months after purchasing the property.
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Calendar of need-to-know deadlines for home buyers wanting government grants

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november2chips]}
It even has his leftover beer bottles! The former Pittwater retreat of knockabout Australian actor Chips Rafferty, set on a 2,538-square-metre block at Lovett Bay north of Sydney, remains listed for sale.
The deep waterfront bushland property, which is accessible only by water, has been listed by the Dunn family after 24 years of ownership. It had been the home of Rafferty, otherwise known as John Goffage, and his wife, Ellen, in the late 1940s. The rugged movie star of The Overlanders, a tale about the hardships of Australian outback life, paid £1,205 for the land and built the home amid towering gums.
The Dunn family purchased the first of their two Sturdee Place holdings, with beach and jetty, in 1987 for $550,000. It has been listed by Belle Mona Vale agent Mary Rowley, who expects about $4 million for the three-bedroom house with a prized northerly aspect when offers close November 8.
<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/chipswall.jpg">
It comes with sandstone steps leading to terrace with a built-in turbo barbecue. There’s also a king-size guest cabin. And Raffety’s display wall (pictured above) – complete with beer bottles, some bearing the date 1952 (pictured below).
<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/chipsbottle.jpg">
The last big sale of a home on the shores of the neighbouring Elvina, Lovett and Towlers bays was the 1920s four-bedroom sandstone house Maritana, which fetched $6.25 million on Elvina Bay in 2007. It is set on a 2,380-square-metre Douglass Estate holding, which sold through Agency by Alison Coopes. It had a 52-metre-wide waterfront, a sandy beach, jetty and boatshed in beautiful gardens with sandstone terraces. Surrounded by vast stretches of national park, Maritana was built using jarrah, kauri and spotted gum by the Gibsons of retailers Foy &amp; Gibson.
Lovett Bay is named after John Lovett, who settled there in about 1836.
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Chips Rafferty's former Pittwater home remains bottled for sale 

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The NSW National Trust may draw the drapes on 10 of its historic properties for extended periods as it can’t afford to keep them open to the public.
The potential closure list includes Grossmann and Brough House in Maitland and the Yass house of Hamilton Hume, the first Australian-born explorer.
The trust's NSW chief executive, Will Holmes a Court, has suggested while the trust was a very resilient organisation, it was seriously challenged by the lack of corporate funding and the lack of government funding.
It has sent a proposal to state Heritage Minister Robyn Parker foreshadowing the move and suggesting the only way to prevent the closures was for $2 million of the $20 million given to the government-run Historic Houses Trust last financial year to be diverted to National Trust NSW.
The trust's portfolio of more than 30 properties in NSW – an asset base worth more than $100 million – is largely run by volunteers.
''It is an invidious, onerous, horrible position to have to take for the trust to even consider this. We don't do this lightly,'' Holmes a Court told Fairfax Media.
''Regional communities can't afford this sort of impact, it affects the psyche of a community.''
The National Trust began in Australia in 1945 to protect early colonial buildings along Sydney’s Macquarie Street from the threat of demolition.
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Stricken NSW National Trust set to bolt the doors of several heritage properties

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It’s the type of sale that gives banks, receivers and even some estate agents a bad name. The resort-like Mona Vale beachfront residence of veteran property developer Max Delmege has been finally sold for around $3.5 million. It was a steal.
Regrettably the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles powerbroker had let it be known during its initial marketing that it ought sell for close to its $9 million valuation that followed its impressive 2008 renovation.
Despite hopes of starting the auction proceedings at $6 million plus, the house was passed in without a bid through Ray White Prestige agent Michael King at that October 2010 auction.
There had been $7 million hopes for it when Bank West put the property to initial auction.  Just a few doors away the 808-square-metre beachfront cottage retreat of H. Lindsay Thompson, the retired professor who was president of the AMA from 1982 to 1985, had been listed with $5 million, giving some price expectation validation.
By December the bank would have taken around $6 million for the Delmege property.
The two-level Surfview Road house on an 870-square-metre block was relisted for May auction with all the furniture of his estrange wife Narelle now removed. There were pre-auction offers around $4.5 million, but no sale since the bank wanted around $5.5 million.
The most dramatic price reduction has been over the recent marketing when new listing agents took its pricing from $4.5 million plus to mid-$3 million before and after its August auction, according to RP Data.  There was again no bid at the auction, given savvy buyers are playing tough tactics. It sold for a reputed but unconfirmed $3.5 million. It was sold by Max Walls International. 
The title has caveats from ING Bank and Capital Finance in addition to the first mortgage from Bank of West Australia.
For many years Delmege was the financial saviour of his beloved Sea Eagles, pumping millions into the club he co-owned.
He’s lived on the northern beaches since 1965, starting his own real estate office in Avalon in 1967.
Delmege has fought back before as in 1987, a development in Mona Vale went sour and he "lost everything". He bought himself a weekly bus, train and ferry pass and pounded the pavements, and he reckons he can do it again.
"Being brought up in Maroubra, it's pretty easy to reinvent yourself," he told the Sydney media.
His latest incarnation is as a weekend radio broadcaster on 2SM. And doesn’t he dish it out to the banks.
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Max Delmege's Sydney northern beaches property finally gets over the line

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One of the largest properties on Redfern Street, Redfern has been listed through Ben Forsyth at McGrath Estate Agents.
It’s a whole building on 436 square metres of land. It comes with 100 square metres of space on the lower level, with parking for 10 cars. It’s described as a creative space ideal for a company headquarters or a live/work opportunity, given the second floor has two one-bedroom apartments. The property to be sold with vacant possession has been priced at $2.5 million.
Recent sales in the <a target="_blank" href="/news">Redfern </a>strip have included the former post office commercial premises at 113-119 Redfern Street sold through spruiker Max Markson through McGrath agent Paul Ephron at $2,125,000 in May.
In January 2011 the 209-square-metre holding at 74 Pitt Street sold at $2.05 million, having been listed through Ben Forsyth. It was the 1880s Quirks Grocery Building, a mixed-use premises offering with a total annual income of about $133,000 from two independent residences, a café and separate office. It was architect-redesigned 12 years ago.
“Redfern is finally going through a renaissance that has been promised for so long,” Forsyth says.
“The Block being demolished, the new indigenous arts college and the Sydney City upgrade have all lead to major changes of this great inner-city suburb.”
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New corporate home office listing a sign of Redfern renaissance

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Moog, the home, hotel, restaurant, bar and recording studio in one location in Surry Hills, was listed with $8 million expectations by Simon and Susanah Page in 2005. The three-level terrace in Bourke Street was relisted at $5 million in 2010. The property, with the potential to be returned to its original nine-bedroom layout, was passed in at its Colliers auction this week on a $3.8 million vendor bid.
Auctioneer Damien Cooley suggested there were four or five interested bidding parties but could not solicit any bids when it was offered under receivers' instructions through listing agent Paul Fernandes.
In its heyday the place offered the $1,000-a-night Moog Hotel experience, which included designer pool with underwater speakers. It even laid claim to the most expensive cocktail in Sydney –the Amex Noir at $2,003.
The Pages arrived in Sydney from New Zealand and embarked on developing nightclubs. In 1996 the couple opened the doors to Sublime, a hip subterranean club built in the old Brashs music store on Pitt Street. They later took on Home nightclub at Darling Harbour. They then created the one-suite Moog Hotel, which was ranked as one of the world's coolest hotels by Conde Nast Traveler.
Paul Fernandes marketed it as a grand Victorian mansion transformed into a unique designer home and integrating a distinctive diverse investment.
"So many things to so many people – its individual and matchless potential embraces retail, commercial, boutique hotel and residential," he suggests.
The ads said receiver and manager’s sale – clear instructions to sell. Its annual current income from the wine/tapas bar is $74,000.
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