<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 target="_blank" title="1 Flora Street" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008173508" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1 Flora Street, Midland, WA, 6056</a>
On the market since: August 16, 2009
Initial asking price: $1.9 million
Current asking price: $850,000
Reduction: 55%
Days on market: 701
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">2</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="588 white beach road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106479093" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">588 White Beach Road, White Beach, Tasmania, 7184</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $780,000
Current asking price: $400,000
Reduction: 49%
Days on market: 420
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">3</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="1350 Wynnym Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106966579" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa, Queensland, 4173</a>
On the market since: November 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 46%
Days on market: 252
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">4</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="3 Boolari Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105832903" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">3 Boolari Road, Gosford West, NSW, 2250</a>
On the market since: July 8, 2009
Initial asking price: $990,000
Current asking price: $580,000
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 738
 
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<a target="_blank" title="1/21 Ocean Drive" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106550670" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">1/21 Ocean Drive, Coogee, WA, 6166</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.7 million
Current asking price: $1.6 million
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 420
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">6</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="232 High Central Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007562500" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">232-234 High Central Road, Macleay Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: January 11, 2009
Initial asking price: $279,000
Current asking price: $175,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 917
 
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<a target="_blank" title="25 Vicary Street" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008491614" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">25 Vicary Street, Triabunna, Tasmania, 7190</a>
On the market since: August 2, 2010
Initial asking price: $299,000
Current asking price: $189,000
Reduction: 37%
Days on market: 350
 
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<a target="_blank" title="290 Viveash Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, WA, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2.29 million
Current asking price: $1.5 million
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 1,138
 
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<a target="_blank" title="3 Zelma Court" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105294317" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">3 Zelma Court, Macleay Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $380,000
Current asking price: $250,000
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 419
 
<h2 style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 18px; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, Palatino, 'Palatino Linotype', serif; line-height: 21px; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">10</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="46a Stock Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106404560" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">46a Stock Road, Attadale, WA, 6156</a>
On the market since: March 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $2.69 million
Current asking price: $1.79 million
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 483
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research" target="_blank" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
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louischristopher-TWpYcZDLBK

Top 10 most discounted properties in Australia at July 28

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/july25camelot]}
40 Martin Road, Centennial Park, NSW, 2021
Built in 1968 and designed by architect Nicholas Munster, this home shows off the Modernist design principles of a light-filled interior and cross-flow ventilation. At the time it was considered revolutionary, with curved walls and ceiling features, marble and terrazzo floors and an indoor tiled fish pond. The four-bedroom, five-bathroom house, called Camelot, is in one of Sydney's most tightly held areas, Centennial Park.  It includes a sauna and landscaped gardens and is being sold through <a href="https://www.kenjacobs.com.au/" target="_blank" title="Ken Jacobs">Ken Jacobs Christies</a> agent Ken Jacobs, with price hopes of $5.4 million. In October 2010 the property came on the market with price hopes of $6.5 million. 
 
 
{module 238}
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Welcome to the '60s in Centennial Park

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/july20queens]}
116 Queens Road, Connells Point, NSW, 2221
This five-bedroom, five-bathroom house with uninterrupted views of the Georges River sold on June 23 for $3.03 million. It was initially listed for August 2009 auction with $3,375,000 price hopes, according to RP Data. It was the third sale in Connells Point above $3 million. The 700-square-metre luxury home features a fully tiled indoor pool, a second kitchen and a surround-sound home theatre with seven leather recliners. It has two storerooms, terraced gardens and the state-of-the-art conveniences and fittings that one would expect at this price point. The house was sold by <a target="_blank" title="Belle Property" href="https://www.belleproperty.com/">Belle Property</a> agent Brett Ramsey. 
 
{module 238}
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Connells Point beauty sells for $3.03 million

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As food guru Jamie Oliver prepares for the September opening of his new restaurant at leased premises in 107 Pitt Street in the Sydney CBD, demand for retail space from restaurants, cafes and takeaways continues to remain strong and defy the overall retail trend.
Oliver is currently refitting his first Jamie's Italian in Australia, which will cater to up to 200 guests at the Pitt Street location.
According to CB Richard Ellis agents James McNeill and Leif Olson, the arrival of the English restaurateur will enhance the city's array of international eateries.
In its latest report on the NSW retail market, CBRE notes that the café, restaurant and takeaway subsector has achieved annual sales growth of 5.8% for the year to June 2011.
In contrast to the fashion sector, down 5.2% for the year, Olson says the food sector is up as NSW households have “wined and dined their way through the first half of the year”.
As a result CBRE retail is fielding “a number of enquiries from noted Sydney establishments seeking opportunities in the lower north shore and eastern suburbs”.
This growth has come against a backdrop of lacklustre overall retail growth in Sydney, with prime rents falling by 11% over the previous year to an indicative $2,473 per square metre and further rental reductions expected in the short term as national retailers closed underperforming stores to focus on Pitt Street Mall locations.
BlackRock Property Trust, landlord of the building at 107 Pitt Street, where Oliver has lease space, notes that it has been successful in concluding leasing transactions throughout the March quarter of 2011.
The café, restaurant and takeaway subsector is further benefiting from City of Sydney’s introduction of the Liquor Amendment (Small Bars and Restaurants) Bill 2007, designed to stimulate the CBD’s laneways.
“Sydney’s western corridor is a particularly popular small bar precinct, as the location captures foot traffic from the surrounding offices. Among recent additions to the western corridor are Shirt Bar and Grandmas Bar,” McNeill says.
Commenting on the launch of his Sydney eatery, Oliver says Australia has always been close to his heart since he first visited around a decade ago.
“I get a lot of wonderful tweets and emails from Australians who have eaten at Jamie’s Italians in the UK, so now to have a Jamie’s Italian open in Sydney is really special for me,” he says.
Other notable food retail openings include Westfield's Food on Five food court in the new Pitt Street Mall flagship mall, Cuban restaurant and bar La Bodeguita Del Medio at 125 York Street and Stitch Bar at 61 York Street.
Development applications have also been lodged for a new Fratelli Fresh in the basement of the Burns Philp building at 7 Bridge Street and a new Pie Face store at the corner of Bridge and George streets.
John Bowie Wilson, director of CBD sales and investment services at Colliers, told the Sydney Morning Herald the expansion of the food and beverage offerings was ensuring owners of inner-city buildings were able to fill vacancies left by traditional retailers.
"While traditional retailers are losing market share to websites, food and beverage operators still need shopfronts," he says "The lower price point of cafes and restaurants and the non-discretionary nature of food sales mean that turnover has not declined to the extent of other retail categories.”
Other recent sales of restaurants and cafes have included the Spicy Sichuan Restaurant in Cunningham Street for $4.3 million; Fratelli Fresh store and cafe in Hickson Road for $3 million; 8 Quay Street in Haymarket for $8.2 million and the Belgium Beer Cafe in Harrington Street for $4.2 million.
Colliers has also noted increasing inquiry levels from international operators who viewed the Sydney economy as more robust than other global centres.
According to the CBRE report, consumers are continuing to adopt a “wait and see” approach to retail expenditure with fashion retailing, one of the harder hit subsectors.</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Jamie Oliver's Sydney premises highlights appetite for eatery space

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About 15% of first-time property investors on the Gold Coast plan to use their self-managed super funds to buy their first investment properties, according to a recent survey.
Nearly 6% intend to use their SMSFs to purchase the property in its entirety, and about 9% expect to use their super to help supplement other sources of funding, according to Mortgage Choice’s First Time Property Investor survey.
Gold Coast SMSF property investment intentions are head-and-shoulders above any other region in Australia, with just 6% of Sydney investors and 5% of Melbourne investors planning to tap into their super funds when making their first acquisition.
A higher proportion of Gold Coast respondents to the survey were baby boomers (38%), compared with 27% nationally. Generation X was also represented more highly on the Gold Coast (53% of survey respondents, vs. 45% nationally).
One baby boomer respondent living on the Gold Coast says: “I think there will be another super drop in the next 12 to 18 months, so feel property is safer”.
“For many people, the older they become the closer ensuring they have enough super for a comfortable retirement moves to the forefront of their financial concerns,” Mortgage Choice spokeswoman Kristy Sheppard says.
According to the survey, Queensland is the preferred destination for 22% of Australian property investors, followed by Victoria at 21%. NSW ranked a joint third with South Australia and WA at 18%.
Leanne Pilkington, general manager of Laing &amp; Simmons, says high prices in Sydney are driving investors to look to markets like Queensland and Victoria.
“Sydney is so expensive. It’s just not affordable, compared, in particurlar, to Queensland,” she recently told the AFR.
“Investors need to look at other options because they can’t invest in Sydney,” she adds.
According to SMSF administrator Multiport, DIY funds allocation to direct property rose to 14% in March 2011 from 12% at the end of March last year, with residential property gaining traction at the expense of commercial properties such as small offices and industrial warehouses.
A similar study carried out in 2009 did not break down the responses into regions, but found that around 4.5% of first-time investors planned to use their SMSF to either to buy an investment property outright or to help fund its purchase.
In 2011, the overall figure is down slightly to 4%.
The most popular properties sought by first time investors are small houses with between one and three bedrooms, followed by larger houses and one- and two-bedroom units.
The survey accumulated responses from more than 1,000 people who plan to buy an investment property by July 2013.
Click to download 16 Questions Self-Managed Super Fund Trustees Should Ask Before Investing in Property.
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Despite downturn, property still popular for Gold Coast super investors

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<img src="/images/stories/stjohns2-cropped.png">
The historic St John’s church site, one of the oldest and most well-known properties on Sydney’s Oxford Street strip, is being transformed into a boutique residential and retail project.
The St John’s Paddington project comes with eight residences as well as retail and café space fronting the busy Sydney hub.
Prices start at $1,675,000 in the project, which is being developed by Australasia Properties Pty Ltd and marketed through Savills residential projects divisional director, Peter Coulton.
The site was sold by Savills last year for $9 million to the developers who have since worked with designers Ancher Mortlock Woolley and architects Marchese Partners.
They have adjusted the initial 2005 conditional development consent for the redevelopment granted by the Land &amp; Environment Court.
“For almost two decades the buildings have been left vacant, subject to vandalism and in an increasing state of deterioration,” its April 2011 Graham Brooks &amp; Associates heritage impact statement says.
It has frontages to Oxford and Regent streets, and at the rear, Renny Lane.
“These historic Paddington landmarks will be given a new lease of life,” Mr Coulton says.
The terrace-like apartments range from 171 square metres up to 339 square metres.
The free-standing 1904 former manse will be a Torrens title offering. It’s a two-storey Federation Arts and Crafts property on Regent Street.
The St John’s manse was built in 1845, with later additions, making it one of Paddington’s oldest buildings. The colonial Georgian manse, built at a cost of 240 pounds, has had a small tree growing in its chimney for several years.
In 1859 the Gothic-style St John’s church was built next door to a design by Henry Robertson.
In 1885 it was extended by the church hall at the rear. It was deconsecrated as a Presbyterian church in 2000.
The church sold in 2004 for $8.3 million to a syndicate headed by Tony Braham. The syndicate offloaded the project in 2010.
It sits within the Sydney City Council municipality.
<img src="/images/stories/stjohns4-cropped.png">
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Religious colonial Paddington readies for retail and residency 

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Sydney’s landmark Exchange Centre, the home of the Australian Securities Exchange, has been listed with $200 million hopes by receivers.
It’s being offloaded by Record Realty, the listed property arm of Allco Finance Group, which paid $238 million to German fund Deka Immobilien in 2006. 
Record bought the 13-storey building on the corner of Bridge and Pitt streets after a bidding war that reputedly included GPT, Mirvac, Commonwealth Property Office Fund and Stockland.
Deka had paid $177 million for the site in 1999.
The ASX has a 12-year lease signed in 2000, with a further five-year option. The deal incorporates an annual fixed rental increase of 4.5%.
At the time of its purchase, with just $68 million of equity, Record's chief executive, Stewart Tillyard, said the Bridge Street property was a "trophy" asset for the growing business.
"The deal specifically fits with our investment mandate, which is to focus on properties with long-term quality tenants," Mr Tillyard said.
It was 2009 when administrators were appointed to the management arm of its office property business, after Record Realty's main bankers, the then struggling Bank of Scotland International, called in its debts. The bank has a reported $190 million exposure.
The building was thought to be sold in 2009 at somewhere between $140 million and $170 million, but the deal did not eventuate. Its reputed buyer was the Hong Kong-based CLSA Asia Pacific Markets, the brokerage and investment arm of French bank Credit Agricole.
There has since been a renovation and several vacant floors tenanted that have improved its occupancy to 93%.
Receivers KordaMentha have appointed CBRE executive managing director Scott Gray-Spencer and CBRE regional director of institutional investments, Rob Sewell, to undertake the marketing campaign.
Mr Gray-Spencer said the quality of the building and the premium tenancy profile would attract significant buyer interest.
“The Exchange Centre is one of Sydney’s most securely leased prime office investments, with the recently refurbished entrance foyer and public viewing gallery attracting a number of quality tenants to the building,” Mr Gray-Spencer said.
“Tenant enquiry has resulted in approximately 3,400 square metres of new tenant commitment and a further 1,000 square metres of lease renewals  in the past six months which has increased the average lease expiry to six years.”
Mr Gray-Spencer suggested as the 20 Bridge Street building was the only real prime asset of its size to be offered this year, pent-up market demand was expected to fuel interest.
“Currently there is more capital looking to invest in the office sector than prior to the GFC.
“In particular, Australian domestic superannuation and wholesale funds are becoming increasingly active and presently have $10 billion in firepower.”
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$200 million hopes for Allco collapse Sydney office listing

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Popular Sydney eastern suburbs watering hole, the Golden Sheaf Hotel in Double Bay, has been listed with $80-million-plus hopes by Bruce Solomon's Solotel Group.
The heritage-listed 1936 pub was bought for $5,327,000 in 1991. Its New South Head Road premises was expanded after $4.8 million was spent in 2006 with purchase of the adjacent George's restaurant from Leo Varvaritis. The refurbished hotel and rear beer garden was launched in 2009.
Solotel has earmarked the sale proceeds to fund its new Bar Sydney in Westfield Sydney, and a possible complex in New York.
The Golden Sheaf forms part of Solotel's portfolio of 16 hotels and four restaurants.
The group includes the two Aria restaurants in Sydney and Brisbane, run by celebrity chef Matt Moran, who will also run the new Bar Sydney.
Jones Lang LaSalle's national director of pub investment sales John Musca has listed the Golden Sheaf. The SMH reported it is considered among the country's most profitable pubs.
The Golden Sheaf’s neighbour is the Kiora Lands proposed development – a joint venture between Woollahra Council and Woolworths, who have often been mooted buyers. The current Kiora project will occupy the current Woolworths site and council car park and eventually house a four-storey complex.
It was 1987 when the Sheaf was contemplated as being part of a bigger development during its ownership by John Lyons’ Realty Property Group and its major shareholder, Sir Ron Brierley’s Industrial Equities Ltd. There had been brief contemplation of a 12-storey international hotel.
The hotel had been bought by the Lyons syndicate for a reported $10 million from the well-known Ryan hotelier family in 1986. The Ryans, who had been there since 1974, sold because they thought the land content had become too valuable for it to be just a pub.
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Double Bay's Sheaf comes with golden expectations

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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.
 
While the Sydney serviced apartment market continues to perform strongly, the state’s two biggest regional markets – the Mid-North Coast and Northern Rivers regions – have seen occupancy rates drop sharply in line with declining tourist accommodation demands.
According to latest ABS tourist accommodation statistics, occupancy rates for the Mid-North Coast’s 1,500-room serviced apartment market dropped from a healthy 72% in January 2011 to 62% in March 2011.
The market, which comprises the regional towns of Port Macquarie, Taree, Coffs Harbour, Forster and Kempsey, has fallen in line with a drop in hotel occupancy ratios for the region which are down 10% for the same period to 54%.
Guests are staying for shorter periods – three days instead of four – while average takings per night are down from to $135 from $188 at the start of the year.
It’s a similar story for the Northern Rivers towns of Grafton, Lismore, Tweed Heads and Byron Bay which make up the bulk of the region’s 1,800 rooms.
Occupancy ratios fell from 65% to 53% over the March quarter. At the same time the combined tourist accommodation sector dropped from a 58% occupancy ratio to just over to 53%.
Guest stays are down to two and a half days on average compared with four nights at the start of the year.
According to research by CBRE Hotels, the growth of the serviced apartment market in tourist areas was driven by leisure traveller demands.
In contrast, Sydney, which makes up half of the 12,000-bed strong NSW market, had an occupancy ratio in March 2011 of 88% compared to 85% in January.
Its 6,000 rooms were occupied for 163,000 nights in March, generating average takings per night of $197; slightly down from $199 in January, but up on a year ago when average room takings were $182.
According to research by CBRE Hotels, serviced apartments in regional areas are heavily reliant on domestic travellers, with just 10% of their guests coming from overseas.
In comparison, a quarter of guests in CBD apartments are visiting from overseas.
Online searches revealed very few serviced apartments up for sale in NSW.
The Waldorf Apartment group is current selling a studio serviced apartment in the Parramatta Apartment Hotel at 110-114 James Ruse Drive for $179,000, with guaranteed rent of $260 per week.
Further up on the Central Coast, a two-bedroom apartment at the Entrance Waldorf Apartment Hotel is for sale for $279,000. The Waldorf is offering investors a two-year leaseback option returning 4.5% net per annum on the unit's purchase price.
ABS statistics reveal the Central Coast market declined strongly during the first quarter of 2011, with occupancy ratios falling from 72% in January to 41% in March. However, for the March quarter, the occupancy ratio stands at 54%; higher than 52% recorded in March 2011, suggesting that seasonal factors may play a major role.
Against the backdrop of Sydney’s strong showing, Ken Smith, regional director for CBRE Hotels, tips the serviced apartment market to become a much more dominant force in the Australian market in 2011.
Yields on serviced apartments are between 5% and 6%, compared to between 3% and 4% for residential investment properties, according to CBRE research.
 
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Sydney strong, but regional serviced apartments shedding guests

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The Campbell’s Corner retail premises, Muswellbrook’s original town shopping centre, has sold for $3.2 million. It last sold in 2005 for $3.8 million.
The historic property in the Upper Hunter mining district town has been bought by the local council, which views the site as the ideal location for a regional convention and entertainment centre.
Built in 1870, the site’s current enlarged retail property, with its dramatic tower, was added in 1910 by Walter Barrett, who became the mayor of Muswellbrook in 1915. Mr Barrett was a timber merchant, builder and chairman of Muswellbrook Coal Company for 35 years.
It was in 1862 that Scottish retailing pioneer Malcolm Campbell purchased a Muswellbrook store from John Ferguson. But after the arrival of the railway in 1869, Campbell moved from Sydney Street to Bridge Street, which he judged would become the commercial centre of the town. In 1870 he built a two-storey store and as the business prospered, the building was extended in 1879 and 1891.
The building is on a prominent 6,106-square-metre site with frontage to Bridge and Brook streets, close to the end of the New England Highway.
Its fully-leased income potential is estimated at $640,000, with current tenants including a Franklins supermarket, specialty shops and first floor offices. It has 5,363 square metres of gross net lettable area.
The council says no existing tenant will be dislocated as a result of the acquisition and any redevelopment set to be undertaken.
The council plans a four-stage renovation and extension process, attaching a new auditorium when Franklins moves out. Franklins occupies 1692 square metres on a lease until 2017, with a 10-year option.
“There is no current timeframe for the development of a regional convention and entertainment centre,” a council spokesman said.
“Council is currently going through the process of preparing a concept masterplan in readiness for seeking sources of funding,” he says.
Muswellbrook is a coal mining town and the centre of an important pastoral and dairy area. It boasts three shopping centres: Campbell's Corner; the Muswellbrook Marketplace on Sowerby Street in the north; and the new Muswellbrook Fair along Rutherford Road in the south of the town.
Campbell’s Corner was listed in April last year through CB Richard Ellis agents Steven Lerche and Harry Bui.
In 2008, on its initial listing, more than $6 million was being sought.
On its 2005 purchase through Street Real Estate, investment company Romarx Pty, directed by the Saul family from Sydney’s eastern suburbs, also bought the Singleton Neighbourhood Shopping Centre for $2.7 million. The family company still retains ownership of the Singleton centre.
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