<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

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

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A redundant electricity substation on a 77-square-metre block at Marrickville<a href="/news"> </a>suitable for conversion into residential use has been listed for October 15 auction.
It’s one of the 1,000 substations that were built across Sydney from the late 1870s as the demand for electricity grew throughout the city.
There are approved plans by Tanner Architects to convert the <a target="_blank" title="Marrickville" href="/news">Marrickville </a>property into a 159-square-metre, three-bedroom, two-bathroom abode with roof terrace with louvered pergola.
Its BresicWhitney listing agent Matt Carvalho expects $500,000 plus for the Philpott Street listing.
It’s been subdivided off the neighbouring Globe Mills apartment development.
While many are simple designs, the Marrickville substation was built to fit into the architecture of its factory surroundings. It comes with three high steel roller shutter doors.
Substations were camouflaged as everything from Federation homes and Californian bungalows to castle-like structures.
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Bidders abuzz over 77-square-metre substation with triplex potential

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Anambah House, the 1889 residence on 29 hectares of prime Maitland grazing land with Hunter River frontage, has been sold for $1.75 million to Jann Zappacosta, the general manager of Wayne Cooper clothing, and her husband, Maurizio.
It was listed for sale at $1.79 million through Rhonda Nyquist of PRDnationwide Hunter Valley.
The Berry family has owned the property for three decades. It was built for grazier John Mackay, whose family also owned Redleaf House in Woollahra, now Woollahra Council Chambers.
Visitors through the years have included Dame Nellie Melba in 1908; she sang Home Sweet Home on the staircase. Two governor-generals, the Earl of Dudley and the Earl of Gowrie, visited over the years; and radio entertainers Roy "Mo" Rene and Jack Davey stayed in the 1950s when Anambah was the home of Hal Lashwood, one of the greats of Australian radio.
It was the setting for the film Country Life, starring Greta Scacchi and Sam Neill, in 1994.
The two-storey Victorian-era mansion retains all the original features, including its cedar joinery, 10 marble fireplaces, and servants' bell-pushes. Its cedar staircase has two large stained-glass windows on the first landing. It has pressed metal ceilings in upstairs bedrooms, a slate roof, sandstock bricks and original cast-iron lace veranda rails.
There is a separate billiard room built in 1906, along with stable and servants quarters. Its gated grounds have several Bunyah pines and a 1993 tennis pavilion.
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Anambah House sells to Wayne Cooper GM

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Sunny Brea, an elegant family home set on an elevated 1,140-square-metre parcel of land at Vaucluse overlooking Sydney Harbour, has been listed for upcoming auction.
Its been in the Pfeiffer family since its construction in 1905 – home to five generations.
The house with five bedrooms plus study boasts water views from most rooms.
There’s a spacious formal lounge and dining with timber floors along with a large entertaining area.
Its been listed through Michael Dunn and James Dunn  at Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay in conjunction with Michael Finger and Gavin Rubinstein at Ray White Double Bay.
It comes with $6.5 million plus hopes.
Recent Fitzwilliam Road sales have ranged between $4.48 million and $6,005,000.
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Sunny outlook for 1905 Vaucluse listing

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The record-setting Woolwich riverfront mansion that last sold for more than $11 million in 2007 has been resold for a reported $9.2 million.
The five-bedroom, six-bathroom Italianate home with a pool, beach, jetty and pontoon <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/record-setting-woolwich-riverfront-mansion-back-on-the-market-as-saga-continues/2011080150989">had been listed under bank instructions through David Ward at Ward Partners</a>.
National Australia Bank repossessed the Angelo Street house.
<img src="/images/stories/woolwich2.jpg">
Internal water damage and garden poisoning were detected earlier this year at the then-vacant house, with police investigating a break-in at the property during which taps in the kitchen and several of the six bathrooms were left running for days, causing serious damage.
Just before Christmas 2010 Judy Obeid, the wife of the recently retired NSW Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid, entered into a contract to buy the property from the vendor, the mobile phone company director Mick Hakim.
The off-market transaction was cloaked in secrecy, with the Hunters Hill peninsula rife with whispers about the deal at an unconfirmed $8.5 million price.
The sale unravelled as Hakim’s financiers sought to control the sale process with the NSW Supreme Court Justice Ian Gzell giving Equititrust Limited, the second mortgagee, an order for possession at one point in the process.
<img src="/images/stories/woolwich3.jpg">
It is understood the Obeids were not the latest buyers, but it did sell to other locals.
For much of 2010 the house had been on the market with a price tag of $13.5 million.
The five-bedroom Angelo Street house designed by Wolski Coppin Architecture comes with 650 square metres of space.
It was built by home builder Peter Campbell, who sold for $10.35 million in 2004 to Xiaoquin Jin.
The 2,087-square-metre north-facing block had been bought for $3.75 million from internet entrepreneur Sean Howard in 1998.
The Hakims had liberty to apply to the court if they were of the view that a property was to be sold at an undervalue, Gzell notes.
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Record-setting Woolwich mansion sold for loss as saga winds down

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Lachlan Murdoch, the former Bronte-loving media tycoon, and his model wife, Sarah, have relisted their Bronte house for sale.
Christies International has the Murdochs' redundant Bronte house on its books, presumably at less than the $13.5 million initial asking price sought in late 2009.
There is no price indication of the website listing.
The house was recently rented to actor Toni Collette while she undertook renovations to her hillside house.
It was an unsolicited bid in April 2005 that secured the $7.75 million house above Bronte Beach as the Murdochs’ base for their return to Australia from New York.
Photos of the house had been emailed to their New York office by News Ltd property officer Steve Payne, and the couple inspected it on brief trips to Australia.
It was bought from Graham Ford, the Bronte Surf Club president, who built it in 2001.
The Murdochs had been keen for the cosmopolitan beach strip, which represented a change from the Opera House vista from Point Piper where the couple had sold their four-level harbourfront for $20.8 million in March 2005, having paid $12 million in 1999 to the mining magnate Robert Friedland.
With too many stairs and too little grass, family patriarch Rupert Murdoch noted on his first inspection of the Wolseley Road Point Piper house that it was unsuitable for small children in 1999.
It’s likely Le Manoir, Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch's $23 million Georgian estate in Bellevue Hill, will become the couple's permanent base. But no development application has been publicly lodged since its late 2009 purchase nor since they spent $2.63 million on a property next door in February this year, which added 1,049 square metres to their initial 4,097-square-metre hillside purchase.
Le Manoir had previously traded at $26,000 in 1956 when bought by the French government from May McDonald, the New Caledonian-born widow of solicitor Roy McDonald, who was the founding president of the Hydroponic Society of Australia.
Woollahra Library records indicate its design for the McDonalds was by Copeman and Lemont after the land was hived off the 1919 Rocky Park subdivision undertaken by jeweller Melen Myers.
In the meantime the Murdoch couple continue their two-year lease on Coolong, the Vaucluse beachfront residence of expats Ivan and Marina Ritossa, in early 2010.
It's the house the Murdochs wanted before buying Le Manoir, which was unencumbered and unrenovated, for $23 million when they outbid nine other parties in November 2009.
In  2008 Coolong set the then Sydney residential record, with Allco founder David Coe securing $45 million from Ritossa, the global head of foreign exchange at Barclays Capital, through estate agent Bill Bridges and McGrath agent Hamish Robertson. 
The record Sydney house sale hit $53 million last year in Point Piper.
The Murdoch rental house with private beach dates back to Sir Alexis Albert, from the Boomerang music songbook family, who built on the 4,100-square-metre block in 1936.
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Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch re-list their Bronte house

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For those who maintain <a target="_blank" title="Paddington" href="/news">Paddington </a>is Sydney's real estate pacesetter, the latest listing will suggest if there's much competition at the pricey end of the market.
The Leal family, who made their money as owners of Super Smash, the Bondi smash repairer, have listed their grand Paddington Street home with $11 million hopes.
It’s not their first foray into record-setting Paddington listings, as they sold their previous double-fronted offering for a record $4.52 million in late 2004 to investment industry bigwig Andre Morony and his wife, Beverley, through McGrath agents James Dack and Ben Collier. It was a four-level, six-metre-wide terrace standing on a 202-square-metre block.
The latest offering is described by Collier, who is marketing the property, as "arguably one of Paddington’s finest homes".
The north-facing terrace is set on a 390-square-metre block of land, located at the Woollahra end of Paddington Street.
It has four levels with lift access. The double-fronted terrace spans 12 metres in width.
The two now amalgamated terraces were consolidated in 2000.
The Paddington record residential price is $7.75 million when a Goodhope Street Dunkley Developments residence sold through Bickmore-Hutt agent Damien Bickmore-Hutt in April 2010. There had been an earlier $7.75 million sale in 2006 when stockbroker Neville Miles sold in Union Street.
Fashion designer Collette Dinnigan secured $7.3 million for her resort-style Paddington residence earlier this year. The Underwood Street property last traded at $4.1 million in 2002 when bought from the then Altona, Point Piper-bound couple, Deke and Eve Miskin. It sold through Ben Collier and James Dack at McGrath Estate Agents, in conjunction with Bill Malouf. Dinnigan had initially listed in 2009 with $10 million hopes.
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Listing of $11 million could smash Paddington record

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The much-anticipated listing of the Sydney Harbour home of the late arts patron Ann Lewis has made its way onto the market.
The 1909 residence, Amaroo, comes with direct access to a sandy beach and private deepwater jetty. There is also a boat pen for large cruiser, one of only two in Rose Bay.   Luciano Pavarotti was just one of many dinner guests at Lewis’ three-level villa, which would not look out of place overlooking the Mediterranean.
It was her home for about 55 years, and has now been listed for October 27 auction by her four children, Amanda Zsebik, Tony Lewis, Annalise Scanlan and Daniel Lewis, following her death in May.
The internal photos of the house were taken before much of her contemporary art collection was donated to various regional galleries.
It included a massive John Olsen painting that hung from her dining room ceiling for 45 years, but now hangs at the Newcastle Regional Gallery.
Her home town of Moree was given 65 works by indigenous artists.
Mossgreen is set to sell the contents at a forthcoming auction.
A Mungindi grazier's daughter, Ann Livingston met building construction magnate John Lewis on the dance floor at Prunier's in Woollahra.
Title Tattle, the Property Observer weekly Friday column on the property comings and goings of Australia's movers and shakers, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/title-tattle-jackie-o-swaps-paddington-pad-for-highlands-hideaway/2011071450812" target="_blank">heralded the listing in mid-July.</a>
The Australian Financial Review speculates its pricing will exceed Rose Bay's $18.2 million top sale.
It has been listed by Ken Jacobs at Christies International in conjunction with the local agency, McGrath Estate Agents.
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Ann Lewis' Sydney Harbour home ready for its next patron

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Historic Berrima farm Mereworth remains listed for sale by the Oxley family.
The 500-hectare property ranks among the most intact Southern Highlands farms, but it is possible to be subdivided before or after sale.
It has $11 million hopes.
It has been held by the pioneering tea-merchant family since it was bought in 1963 after almost 100 years of ownership by the Cowley family.
The nine-bedroom 1964 sandstone house was designed by architect John Amory, with a French provincial feel. Its formal lounge room comes with a baronial fireplace and raked ceilings. Shuttered windows and french doors frame the views of the mature garden, once described by Elwyn Swane as one of the finest by landscaper Paul Sorenson.
The property, with two creeks, 12 dams and seven bores, suits grazing cattle, sheep and horses.
It is listed through Chris Meares from Meares &amp; Associates, who describes it as the best listing since Reg and Joy Grundy paid $15 million for Comfort Hill, the 200-hectare Sutton Forest property from adman-turned-farmer Michael Ball and his wife, Daria, in 2007. Mereworth's occupancy dates back to John Atkinson's 1820 settlement. His brother, James, owned Oldbury at Sutton Forest.
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French Provincial Southern Highlands landholding on the market

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What a perch. A trophy seat looking straight up Sydney Harbour to the bridge. It was where the late Bill Bursill sat and read.
His 1950s house, set further back on the Rose Bay block, has been listed for November auction. More than $16 million is being sought by Wayne Yates from Laing &amp; Simmons Double Bay.
Bursill's family home on Dumaresq Road, Rose Bay, has been listed for November 3 auction.
The family purchased the waterfront land in 1950 when it was being used as tennis courts. The house was built over two blocks, capitalising on its views down the harbour to the Harbour Bridge.
Bursill’s great-grandfather Samuel William was transported for life from England at the age of 17 and after being granted his ticket of leave took up residence in Campbelltown with Bursill’s father, establishing a general store business.
Having been predeceased by his wife, Valerie, Bill died in February this year, the day before his 96th birthday.
The house has been listed by his four children.
In the 1950s Bursill was instrumental in determining the site for a ski village at Thredbo, where his first Bursill Lodge was built out of a giant refrigerator cabinet bought at an Army disposal store. He also had another tourism lodge Rainbow Beach in Queensland, where his lodge, The Mikado, was established when nearby Noosa Heads was just a sleepy hamlet.
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Leisure entrepreneur Bill Bursill's Rose Bay house up for auction

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More than 25 parties inspected the auction listing at 350 Annandale Street, <a target="_blank" title="Annandale" href="/news">Annandale </a>when it was open on its initial open for inspection last weekend.  The three-bedroom, two-bathroom house has been listed through Michael Harris at Raine &amp; Horne Newtown for October 8 auction.
The double-fronted freestanding residence in a north Annandale comes with many original features including high ceilings and marble fireplaces. There are casual spaces that flow to the outdoors, where there is a heated swimming pool and paved entertainment area with rear lane access.
About $1.5 million is being sought. There have been 25 houses sales above $1 million so far this year in Annandale, with six on Annandale Street, including the top $2.2 million sale.
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