<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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Finally some good news for NSW, with the newly elected government recognising that infrastructure spending is priority number one. For well over a decade infrastructure investment in NSW has all but been ignored, so last week’s budget announcement signals a much brighter future for an ailing NSW economy. Past governments have continually ignored that NSW was suffering from an inadequate supply of new homes, which in turn forced young families to relocate to other states in search of affordable housing and a better standard of living.
In the 2011-12 budget the government has committed $62.6 billion over the next four years, which they described as the biggest such commitment in the state’s history. A surplus of $292 million is forecast for 2012-13, and $156 million for 2013-14, with 2014-15 delivering a surplus of $152 million.
Finally NSW has an infrastructure map where not only the government but businesses and families can plan for their futures. All it took was an infrastructure vision.
Delivering his first budget Treasurer Mike Baird said: “A key part of rebuilding NSW is building the infrastructure our communities so desperately need. Nowhere in Labor’s infrastructure backlog felt more than in our hospitals which is why we have committed a record $1.08 billion to the health capital works program, along with $343 million set aside for new works.”
The budget invests $6.3 billion in infrastructure investment in roads and transport. Baird said: “The NSW government has increased spending on transport and roads infrastructure by nearly 10% on Labor’s last budget and we have invested more than $600 million on the northwest and southwest rail links. Since the election we have made good on our promise to fast-track the northwest rail link and today, we have backed those actions up with real money, with $314 million allocated this year to develop the line between Epping and Rouse Hill, including $222 million for land acquisition.”
Obviously this is a very expensive infrastructure spend, which explains the establishment of Infrastructure NSW, which has been set up to improve the way that infrastructure is assessed and delivered. Legislation has been passed to establish Restart NSW, the NSW Government’s key infrastructure fund of which one-third of all funding will be quarantined to deliver infrastructure in the regions.
The government has established Waratah Bonds, which are government-backed securities.  The aim is to attract the mum and dad investors, which is excellent timing given what’s currently happening to world financial markets. Instead of selling public assets, Sydney’s Port Botany shipping terminal will be leased for 99 years as will the desalination plant at Kurnell.
To kick-start the floundering construction industry <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/nsw-scraps-stamp-duty-concessions-for-existing-homes-from-2012/2011090651441" target="_blank">the stamp duty exemption will be limited to newly built homes only</a> – as against the previous carrot for first home buyers where exemptions applied to all properties worth up to $600,000.
The last time Sydney had a big infrastructure announcement was back on September 23, 1993, when International Olympic Committee president Juan Antonio Samaranch announced from Monte Carlo that Sydney would be host for the 2000 Olympics. Our bid organisers budgeted $2.3 billion to run the Games, including $674 million on facilities and venues. In addition, the federal and NSW governments allocated $4.1 billion for transportation projects.
The $860 million makeover of Star City, which will now be called The Star, is Sydney’s first new five- star hotel since the Olympics which highlights the extent to which infrastructure in Sydney has frozen. I could add the Cross City and Lane Cove Tunnels which have turned out to be financial infrastructure disasters.
Finally, NSW has a structured infrastructure plan, and as they say in the movies, “I love it when a plan comes together.” Let’s hope that NSW becomes a box office hit again! 
Robert Simeon is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM">Richardson  Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay </a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. He has also been writing real-estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally.
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NSW infrastructure announcement a step in the right direction

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<img src="/images/stories/darlingpoint1.jpg">
More than $20 million is being sought for a prime Darling Point harbourfront home. The modern house with dramatic wet-edge pool is set at the end of the Eastbourne Road cul-de-sac on a 979-square-metre block.
The house comes with 700 square metres of living and entertaining areas with internal lift access to all three levels.
It has five bedrooms with terraces and six bathrooms, including a luxurious master wing with a marble ensuite with a bath and a custom-designed dressing room.
Complete with a bar area and gas fire, the formal entertaining space opens to a covered wraparound terrace for alfresco entertaining.
<img src="/images/stories/darlingpoint2.jpg">
The house comes with a sauna, library area and home theatre, which makes the perfect children’s retreat. Bill Malouf and Emma Prgomelja at L.J. Hooker Double Bay have the listing.
<a target="_blank" title="Title Tattle" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/title-tattle-sir-william-tyree-lists-%2440-million-mansion-in-darling-point/2011081951229">Darling Point’s other significant listing is on the Lindsay Avenue cul-de sac with $40 million plus hopes.</a> Some local press reports suggested the Lindsay Avenue listing ought fetched even more than $50 million.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Prime Darling Point home on the market for $20 million plus

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<img src="/images/stories/balmoral1.jpg">
Software entrepreneur Simon Clausen, who debuted on the 2009 BRW Rich List with a $180 million fortune after selling his software company, has abandoned construction plans for an expansive three-level Balmoral Slopes, Mosman, residence.
The high-flyer spent $31 million in 2008 and 2009 on three adjoining properties with direct views out towards Sydney Heads.
After demolition works a 2,560-square-metre vacant block had been listed for sale through McGrath agent Nigel Mukhi.  The block cost $19 million, with the remaining $12 million spent on an adjoining heritage-listed house on the corner of Upper Almora Street.
<img src="/images/stories/balmoral3.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;">
The vacant hillside Arbutus Street holding has approved architect plans for a stunning 10-bedroom home with 10-car garage and swimming pool in Peter Fudge-designed gardens.
The BJP Architects-designed house with a gross floor area of 940 square metres, which got approval in May last year had an estimated $7.5 million completion cost.
The 34-year-old co-founded PC Tools in 1998 as a website.
His first purchase was a $1.35 million Balmain terrace in 2004 with his wife, Alexandra. On Sydney's Pittwater, the Clausens’ Clareville architect-designed weekender – featuring glass, copper, sandstone and timber – is nearing completion. The couple paid $2.7 million for the 1,246-square-metre property in 2009.
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Tech millionaire abandons Balmoral Slopes dream home construction

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<img src="/images/stories/byronbaypic.jpg">
The Wategos Beach dress circle gets to test the rebound in <a target="_blank" title="Byron Bay" href="/news">Byron Bay</a> prices with a September 3 auction.
It has been listed with $7.5 million plus hopes, having been last traded at $7.5 million in 2009.
The two-bedroom cottage, which sits on a 796-square-metre block, had previously traded for $900,000 in 1996.
It last sold with approval for a new dwelling with a pool.
The last Marine Parade sale was $5.5 million for a 434-squre-metre holding in late 2009 when the entrepreneur Steve Outtrim offloaded the property for which he’d initially wanted $12 million. The founder of Sausage Software, Outtrim had paid $2.2 million for it in 2000.
Prices peaked in 2006 when publishing magnate Stephen Bush sold his colonial-style Wategos property for a record-breaking $15.68 million in 2006 to Danny Goldberg.
The September 3 auction has been scheduled by Vicky Innes at Byron Bay Property Sales in conjunction with Glen Irwin at LJ Hooker Byron Bay.
The lack of beachfront sales has contributed to Byron Bay’s prestige market slowdown, with just one sale above $4.75 million in 2010.
But in 2011 there have been several non-beachfront sales including Sussan fashion chain executive chairwoman <a target="_blank" title="Sussan boss expands" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/title-tattle-sussan-ceo-naomi-milgrom-spends-%246.2-million-to-buy-her-byron-bay-neighbour/2011070150674">Naomi Milgrom expanding her holding</a> with a $6.2 million acquisition.
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Wategos Beach listing to test Byron Bay price rebound

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august19lighthouse]}
The 1881 <a target="_blank" title="Vaucluse" href="/news">Vaucluse </a>lighthouse keeper's cottage, perched on the clifftops overlooking the ocean near South Head, has been listed for sale with $8 million expectations, although it failed to sell for $7 million when it was marketed by McGrath in a more buoyant market in early 2008.
The 2,600-square-metre leasehold property been listed by Steven and Carmen Davidson, who bought it from neurosurgeon John Matheson and wife Jeanne Eve for $2.52 million in 2002.
The 125-year lease cost $820,000 in 1992 when sold to the Mathesons by the Commonwealth government.
The lease will expire in 103 years.
Towering over the four-bedroom Old South Head Road cottage is the 1883 lighthouse, which replaced the 1818 Francis Greenway-designed lighthouse that had been Australia's first lighthouse.
Ray White Real Estate agent James Hundt says the heritage-listed cottage has been extensively renovated as a family home by the heritage architect Clive Lucas.  But Hundt envisages the offering, which sits on a 2,600-square-metre block, could be suitable for a commercial enterprise such as a reception centre.
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Lighthouse keeper's cottage a beacon in Vaucluse

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august17jamberoo]}
Jerrara Falls, Jamberoo, NSW, 2533
On 96 hectares, this Saddleback Mountain property would be suited to a variety of rural pursuits. It is currently used as a dairy farm with 10 paddocks, one of them quite large, but could be reconfigured. The homestead has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a four-car garage. There is also a separate one-bedroom caretaker's cottage.  It is being sold by <a target="_blank" title="Elders Real Estate" href="https://www.eldersrealestate.com.au/office/jamberoo/residential/buy/property-house-nsw-jamberoo-460884">Elders Real Estate</a> agent Vivienne Marris with price hopes of $5 million plus. It is a 90-minute drive to Sydney and a five-minute drive to the coast.
"Take the time to enjoy enchanting bushwalks over the property and you will discover waterfalls, creeks, spillways, rainforest, good quality pastures, magical birdlife, wallabies, wombats and echidnas," Marris says.
"Old wood Morton Bay figs, the original homestead chimney still standing proudly over the grounds and the even older Australian Red Cedar used on the inside of the homestead capture a time past and a future to be made on this special parcel of Saddleback Mountain in the pristine valley of Jamberoo." 
 
 
 
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Rural holding of 96 hectares on Saddleback Mountain on offer

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august15palmbeach]}
62 Palm Beach Road, Palm Beach, NSW, 2108
On an elevated block with water views, this six-bedroom, four-bathroom house is in the enclave of five properties aptly named Observation Point. The split-level living space has floor-to-ceiling windows to capitalise on those million-dollar views, and it includes a self-contained retreat with a kitchen that <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-palm-beach-nsw-2108/102469/?searchID=8304723" title="McGrath" target="_blank">McGrath Palm Beach</a> agent Noel Nicholson, who is marketing the property, says would be perfect for the help.
Nicholson hopes to secure $5 million plus for the property. It was for sale with price hopes of $6 million plus in early 2010, but the price came down to $5 million plus in mid-2010.
The first of the five Observation Point homes sold off the plan in 2003, two years before completion, at close to $5.35 million. 
 
 
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Views to thrill in Palm Beach

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august9roseville]}
26 Clanville Road, Roseville, NSW, 2069
This five-bedroom, four-bathroom house has been in the same family for 50 years. It has been tastefully updated and includes a heated saltwater pool and a tennis court. The floors are made of blackbutt timber, and all of the bathrooms have marble detailing. It is within walking distance of Roseville train station, shops and cafes. The property is being marketed by<a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/for-sale/NSW/North-Shore-Upper/Roseville/House/25P0169-26-clanville-road-roseville-nsw-2069" title="Belle Property" target="_blank"> Belle Property Killara</a> agent Chana Scotcher with price hopes of $4.6 million. It goes to auction on Saturday, August 27 at 3.30pm. 
 
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Everything's coming up Roseville

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
It just squeezed onto Your Investment Property’s Top 100 survey at number 100, but the small coastal Northern NSW town of Ballina offers rental yields on a par with and in some cases better than those in the large capital cities, proving the suburb has more to offer than just a giant prawn.
Ballina is 600 kilometres north of Sydney, 80 kilometres from the Queensland border and just 30 kilometres from Byron Bay.
Houses in Ballina cost under $420,000 and units are priced around the $330,000 mark, according to RP Data.
While not inexpensive, they are well below median capital city house and unit prices ($487,000 and $420,000 respectively) and substantially more affordable than Byron Bay, where the median house stands at $737,000 and $545,000 for units.
While capital growth has been about 7% over the past three years, it has accelerated over the last year, and is expected to pick up further with a wave of baby boomers expected to relocate to coastal towns over the next few years. 
According to SQM research, vacancy rates in Ballina are currently at 2.1%, and should tighten further as the population increases. 
SQM Research predicts population growth of 2% annually for the next few years, which will push up demand for housing. 
McGrath Estate Agents have recorded increased sales activity on the Northern Rivers and Tweed Coast, where Ballina is. 
In the January – June 2011 period, the two-year-old McGrath Ballina/Byron Bay offie clocked 64 sales, compared with 49 sales for the corresponding period in 2010, an increase of 41%. 
McGrath chief executive John McGrath says this activity is encouraging for regional markets and maintains there are “exceptional buying opportunities in many key lifestyle markets that were hit hard by the GFC”. 
David Mills, principal of McGrath Ballina/Byron Bay and McGrath Tweed Heads, says more than half the buyers were from out of the area with the bulk of enquiries coming via the internet or from McGrath’s in-house magazine. 
“Freestanding houses in the $450,000 to $700,000 price range are most popular. Water and beachfronts are down approximately 15% to 20% to their pre-GFC values, providing good buying opportunities, while buyer activity is on the rise,” Mills says. 
Besides the obvious coastal attractions, Ballina was rated highly by property analysts due to its good transport connections by road, rail and air. The town is serviced by the nearby Ballina-Byron Gateway, which carries commercial flights to Melbourne and Sydney, making it particular attractive to sea changers. 
Amenities include a hospital, several schools, several supermarkets and independent grocery stores. 
As an established holiday destination, Ballina offers a wide range of leisure activities including kayaking, fishing and golf, as well as numerous restaurants and cafes.
 Barb Joblin from Ray White Ballina is selling a two-bedroom house on River Street near the harbour for $189,000 squarely targeted at the baby boomer retirees who enjoy “fishing and living on the waters’ edge”.
At the more expensive end of town Graeme Hellyar, also from Ray White Ballina, is selling a four-bedroom duplex on Dolphin Drive on the Ballina Quays with an asking price $489,000.
Investors considering purchasing in Ballina are warned that the area does suffer from coastal erosion, so while a beachfront property may seem desirable, a better investment might be properties a street or two back from the coast.</body></html>

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Hotspots: Grey wave sweeping Ballina

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august2sedger]}
6 Sedger Road, <a target="_blank" title="Dural" href="/news">Dural</a>, NSW, 2158
Set among prize-winning gardens, this five-bedroom, five-bathroom mansion offers elegant rural living with views through to the Blue Mountains. The property includes a tennis court, library with gas log fireplace, cabana with built-in barbecue and second kitchen, solar-heated saltwater swimming pool, home theatre, putting greens and seven-car garage. It is being marketed by <a target="_blank" title="McGrath" href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/">McGrath </a>agent Elise Lau with price hopes of $5.5 million plus. 
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