<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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Sales over $1 million accounted for only 5.4% of all sales across Australia, according to RP Data researcher Cameron Kusher.
In the capital city markets, home sales at prices in excess of $1 million accounted for 7.4%.
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Sydney snared the largest amount of high-end property sales, with 11.1% of houses and apartments selling above $1 million.
Hobart accounted for the lowest number of sales in the $1 million-plus premium bracket, with just 1.2%, followed by Darwin's 2.3%.
Perth sits in the middle, with 6.5% of sales in the $1 million plus range.
Throughout Australia, 48.3% of all homes sold were at prices below $400,000.
Within capital cities, its 37.2% of all sales priced below $400,000.
The data covered the year to August 2012.
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Million-plus market shrinks: RP Data

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/silverneedle.jpg">
Allen Matis is executive vice president of property at SilverNeedle Hospitality, which is undertaking a multimillion-dollar refurbishment of the Chifley Brisbane in time for the G20 summit.
How long have you been in the industry?
<img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/stories/2012/12/allenmatis.jpg">
Before starting with SilverNeedle Hospitality, I worked in the real estate development and investment industry in the United States and Asia for over 25 years. In that period I was fortunate enough to be a part of organisations like LaSalle Investment Managements (LIM), where I was responsible for a development portfolio representing an aggregate investment in excess of US$4 billion over more than 30 separate developments across Asia. It allowed me to work closely with LIM’s acquisition and asset management teams and lead on all matters related to the development from process including the review of prospective projects and partners, project planning, selection of designers and consultants, negotiations and award of contractors and suppliers, and oversight of each development’s execution.
Prior to joining LaSalle, I established Oriental Development Ltd in Shanghai, providing development management services for various real estate investors. I have also worked with project management and construction company, Bovis Lend Lease, from 1985 through 2002. Over a 10-year period as the greater China country manager with Bovis Lend Lease, I was responsible for over 100 projects with an aggregate construction value in excess of US$4 billion.  Today I provide leadership to the SilverNeedle Hospitality property team. 
 
What’s happening in the area you specialise in?
The real estate investment industry has suffered since the GFC. It is slowly coming out of the deep effects of the crisis, and we can now see some positive forward momentum starting to take place. There are good-quality assets available in the market and several good opportunities are available. In a climate like this investors need to be selective and know where to look for these assets.
Describe the most interesting property development or transaction you have been involved in.
 
I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of several exciting development projects and transactions in my career. Most recently, I’ve been involved the acquisition of Chifley Lennons in Brisbane, located in the heart of the Queen Street mall precinct.  We purchased the property for $57 million in September and have committed a further $35  million to rejuvenate the hotel and retail areas.  This is an important project for SilverNeedle Hospitality as it will be the platform for us to launch our flagship brand NEXT Hotels and Resorts.
 
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
 
A key ingredient that cannot be emphasised enough is common sense, a quality that often determines success in this field. I’m also a big believer in good old-fashioned hard work and honesty, there rarely is a substitute for the two. A straightforward approach also goes a long way.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
 
This role affords me to be part of the creation process. It allows me to see a passion turned into to reality. That’s what keeps me motivated and raring to go every morning.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
 
A personal residential project in Pho Quoc Island in Vietnam. The infrastructure is underway to support the fast growing tourism industry; it is poised to be the next "Phuket" in Asia.
Which football team do you support?
The Chicago Bears.
What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?
My electric guitar.
How do you use social media?
I don’t have the time or the inclination to dabble too much in social media.
LinkedIn profile: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.linkedin.com/pub/allen-matis/13/a32/122">Allen.Matis</a>
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In profile: Allen Matis, head of property at SilverNeedle Hospitality

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The administrators of the Raptis Group construction company, Rapcivic Contractors Pty Ltd, have eliminated an $11.6 million claim against the company from the Australian Tax Office.
The administrators Brian Silvia and Andrew Cummins of BRI Ferrier not only defeated the claim but secured a GST refund of $302,000 after working in co-operation with the Raptis management team.
Additionally Rapcivic’s chairman Jim Raptis has been successful before the Federal Court in having an ATO assessment for a $19.5 million also set aside, although the ATO is seeking leave to appeal to the High Court.
The ATO’s claim made up almost 75% of the estimated unsecured creditors’ claims against Rapcivic, which is now estimated to be between $11 million and $12 million.
The removal of this claim means the likely return to unsecured creditors under the company’s deed of company arrangement is now between 5.38¢ to 10.26¢ on the dollar.
The veteran property developer said he was determined to bring the group back under shareholders’ control and back to operational status.
"Creditors will become shareholders under the deed of company arrangement and any future operations will benefit them directly," he said.
"This is why we have worked tirelessly to resolve the dispute with the tax office, and the withdrawal of the claim brings us another step closer to returning to operations."
"In anticipation of the group’s reinstatement, funds will be made available to identify and commence new development opportunities," Raptis said.
The Raptis Group <a href="https://www.raptisgroup.com.au/Past_Projects" target="_blank">built many major Gold Coast high-rise projects over past decades </a>before it hit financial trouble with its three-tower Southport Central project during the global financial crisis.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/12/raptisgold.jpg">
Partly completed projects have been sold off by receivers, but the company survived under a deed of arrangement with creditors.
It was recently reported by the Gold Coast Bulletin that the son of Jim Raptis, Evan Raptis, was in Asia trying to rebuild the family empire.
The son, in his mid-20s, has established his own businesses after the banks moved in on companies linked to their fathers.
He was among 15 people travelling as part of mayor Tom Tate's trade mission to Taiwan and China last month.
Evan Raptis is joint managing director of Emandar, a company he set up in 2007, which he wants to be part of the next upward cycle.
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"We have to look for new opportunities to be able to do that. We have to position ourselves for when the market returns," he says.
His company is involved with a handful of low-rise projects across the Gold Coast.
 
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Raptis Group's phoenix-like return closer after tax battle victory

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Conway, a sandstone villa in the Adelaide suburb of Malvern has been snappily sold for more than its price guide of $2.9 million.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom home with a tower was listed for a short 20 days before beating price expectations.
David Cocks from Cocks Auld Real Estate Unley<a href="https://www.cocksauld.com.au/properties/residential/House-SA-Malvern-112039967" target="_blank"> </a> closed the sale.
The  circa 1890 house sits on 1,923 square metres of land at <a href="https://www.cocksauld.com.au/properties/residential/House-SA-Malvern-112039967" target="_blank">50 Austral Terrace</a>, <a href="/news">Malvern</a>.
The property last sold in 1997 for $680,500.
The property has a tennis court, an in-ground pool, a home theatre, gym and two large cellar rooms.
The 1890s was a period of rapid expansion in South Australia, according to the <a href="/news">Unley heritage research study (2006)</a>. 
In 1890 buildings were being erected at a rate of 146 per year.
The initial Malvern estate was in 1881, a large subdivision of 633 allotments extended from the south side of Wattle Street to include allotments on the south side of Winchester Street.
The Malvern extension, the 1884 subdivision, was undertaken by William Shierlaw and Thomas Matters and approved by the mortgagee Freak Trimmer with 231 allotments.
"During this period, solid masonry houses of a range of forms and scale were constructed in large numbers with substantial villas built of bluestone or sandstone dominating many streetscapes," notes the research study.
"The detail on these houses is specifically derived from 'classical' Italianate sources, but the forms were varied, and included single fronted, symmetrically fronted, and asymmetrically fronted houses, some with bay fronted projections," it noted.
The district was characterised by substantial mansions set in well landscaped, expansive grounds, demonstrating the transformation of former farm land into a notable residential area, it noted.
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Snappy sale for Adelaide villa Conway

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Former Australian rugby league player and Storm Financial adviser Walter John (Wally) Fullerton-Smith of Carrara has been permanently banned by ASIC from providing any financial services after it found he had engaged in misleading and deceptive conduct and failed to comply with financial services laws.
This included breaching the 'client/planner' relationship by placing investment funds from an elderly couple aged in their 80s in a trust of which he was the trustee and one of the beneficiaries while knowing they stood to lose their entire investment.
Fullerton-Smith also did not pass on to his elderly clients $60,051 paid to him in error by the Commonwealth Bank as a settlement under the CBA Storm Resolution Scheme.
Fullerton-Smith, a former Queensland and Australian rugby league player of the 1980s and 1990s, was adviser with Storm Financial Ltd between May 2006 and June 2009 and is currently an authorised representative with AAA Financial Intelligence Ltd.
He played for the St George Dragons from 1987 and 1992, played 12 State of Origin games for Queensland and eight tests for Australia.
An ASIC investigation of Fullerton-Smith found that between November 20, 2007 and December 10, 2010 failed to comply with financial services laws.
ASIC found that he engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct or conduct likely to mislead or deceive when procuring the elderly couple’s units in an MLC MasterKey Unit Trust as security for the trust margin loan account.
“It was implied the investment would be safe. This was false and a misrepresentation of the risks," said ASIC.
"ASIC considers Mr Fullerton-Smith’s conduct to be very serious. He has not maintained the high standards expected of a provider of financial services in that he put his personal interests ahead of those of his clients and as a result caused them severe financial detriment," said ASIC commissioner Peter Kell.
Fullerton-Smith has the right to appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal to seek a review of ASIC’s decision.
ASIC estimates the total loss suffered by all investors who borrowed monies from banks to invest through Storm to be approximately $830 million.
It has been investigating a range of issues relating to the affairs of Storm Financial Limited since December 2008.
In September, the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/commonwealth-bank-settles-storm-financial-dispute-with-asic/2012091456585" target="_blank">Commonwealth Bank reached a resolution with ASIC</a> in relation to the Storm Financial matter, that will see the bank compensate investors around 55% of their losses.
ASIC 's case against the other banks involved in Storm Financial margin lending, Bank of Queensland and Macquarie Bank, is still ongoing.
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Former Storm Financial adviser and ex-rugby league player Wally Fullerton-Smith handed permanent ASIC ban

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The Tamarama property occasionally occupied by model Megan Gale sold yesterday at an undisclosed price, believed to be around $3 million.
The sale was revealed by the realestate.com.au website. Buyers were being advised $2.95 million-plus was expected for the four-bedroom house, which might have fetched closer to $3.5 million at its peak.
The property sold one week before its scheduled December 6 auction.  Gale's mother bought the Ashley Street house in 2003 for $2.4 million with it rented out much of the nine years.
Property Observer featured the on-the-quiet listing last weekend. At $3 million, the investment yielded an ordinary 2.3% annual price growth.
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Megan Gale farewells Glamarama as Tamarama investment property sells  pre-auction

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The largest independent real estate company in Melbourne's inner west – Compton Green – has ventured into the social media world, but not to sell homes.
Compton Green has two offices, one in Williamstown and one in Yarraville.
At the start of the year their Facebook page had a mere 200 likes, but now it has nearly 700.
Their aim is to reach 1000 Facebook likes by the end of the year.
“We live in a digital world, one that’s evolving with newer, faster and smarter technology,” says director Adrian Butera.
“Now more than ever it is essential to create social media platforms which actively engages readers rather than informs.”
“For us, our aim has never been to sell homes through Facebook but to provide interesting content related to what is happening in the local area,” says Butera.
Compton Green hired Laura Meaney – who has a journalistic background – to drive their social media by interviewing personalities such as locals and high profile personalities, such as Tommy Hafey, a former Australian rules player and coach.
“All content must be informative, interesting and appealing, up-to-date, relevant to industry related issues or local community issues and never insulting to anyone including our competitors,” says Butera.
If you would like to engage with Compton Green, head to their <a href="https://www.facebook.com/comptongreen">Facebook page</a>.
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 Compton Green ventures into the social media world

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Housing credit provided by lenders to borrowers increased by just 0.3% over October, continuing a trend of record low mortgage growth, according to RBA figures.
This followed an increase of 0.4% over September to leave housing credit growth at 4.7% for the year to October – the lowest rate of growth for data going back to 1976.
Owner occupier lending rose just 0.3% to be up 4.3% for the year with investor lending activity slightly stronger, up 0.4% for the month and 5.4% for the year.
The lack of a pick-up in mortgage lending may provide further encouragement for the RBA to cut the cash rate on December 4.
CommSec says the weak lending figures add weight to a December rate cut.
"The Reserve Bank is likely to be disappointed by the latest round of data. There are not many reasons for encouragement and overall the data doesn’t highlight any significant shift in activity patterns across the economy," says Savanth Sebastian, economist at CommSec.
The central bank is likely to be more focussed on the global economy and the downside risks to global growth. At the Reserve Bank Board meeting next week, it is likely that the merits of another rate cut will be debated long and hard. We believe the Reserve Bank should be cutting rates by 25bps in a effort to spur activity and shore up domestic growth
Overall, Australian consumers and businesses continue to deleverage with total credit provided to the private sector by financial intermediaries rising by just 0.1% over October 2012, after rising by 0.3% September. Over the year to October, total credit rose by 3.8%.
Personal credit increased by 0.1% over October, after increasing by 0.3% to be down 0.7% for the year to October.
Business credit decreased by 0.3% over October, after increasing by 0.3% over September to be up 3.3% for the year to October.
Banks share of all lending stands at 92% with non-bank lenders accounting for 8% of loans advanced.
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Mortgage lending growth falls in October to remain at historical lows: RBA

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Yellow Brick Road has suspended mortgage broker Andrew Kaidbay over revelations that he lied to a NSW corruption hearing.
Up until yesterday Kaidbay operated out of the Yellow Brick Road Rose Bay office.
“Yellow Brick Road’s contracted relationship with Andrew Kaidbay has been suspended pending the outcome of the current enquiry," a spokesperson for Yellow Brick Road told Property Observer.
Kaidbay gave testimony to the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption hearing investigating whether the family of Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid gained tens of million of dollars in profits from insider information from former NSW mining minister Ian Macdonald over plans to open a mining area in the Bylong Valley
Kaidbay worked as a ''front'' for the Obeids to disguise their interests in various coal deals and through his former mortgage broking company, $1 Pty Ltd, won a lucrative coal licence, according to the Sydney Morning Herald.
In his evidence Kaidbay admitted that he was representing the interests of the Obeids, but this was not to disguise the family's involvement but “maintain their privacy”.
 
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Yellow Brick Road suspends Sydney mortgage broker Andrew Kaidbay

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Premier Sydney-based real estate group McGrath has reported a 35% drop in full-year after tax profits in a year in which it opened new offices and acquired a number of businesses.

The full year audited results are for the year to June 30 2012, having been lodged with ASIC earlier this month.

McGrath Limited reported profit after tax of $2.25 million compared with profits of $3.49 million in the prior financial year.

A dividend of $2.87 million was declared compared with a dividend of $4.88 million in 2011.

The fall in profits was despite a 5% rise in revenue, which increased from $43.78 million to $45.89 million with cost of sales, employee benefits and occupancy costs rising.

Financing costs and doubtful debts halved.

McGrath also renegotiated the terms of a $6.3 million loan facility with Macquarie Bank.

During the course of the year, McGrath expanded its network of offices to 45 including 38 franchise offices, acquired the sales and rent roll business of Sarah Lorden Real Estate for $2.94 million and acquired the rent roll business of IC Property Group for $1.11 million.

In total, McGrath’s offices generated over $5.9 billion in residential sales from 6,616 transactions and also derived income from property management services.

McGrath sold 1,787 properties over the $1 million mark with new offices opening in Balmain, Crows Nest, Frenchs Forest, Brisbane, Toowoomba, and Dickson (ACT).

In the first few months of the current financial year, McGrath has added a further five offices to its network which now totals 50 offices and over 1,100 staff.

McGrath’s most recent new office opening was a franchise office in Brisbane’s north-east - McGrath Wynnum Manly – which marks its second Brisbane franchise office and third office in total.

The franchisee is Michelle Rodgers, formerly with RE/MAX Manly.

McGrath offices also picked up awards during the year with McGrath Mosman wins best large residential agency at 2012 REINSW Awards McGrath Dickson winning best medium residential agency at 2012 REIACT Awards
“Notwithstanding a challenging real estate market in some price segments, McGrath has continued to expand our geographical footprint and importantly, significant market share increases in our existing areas of business, Geoff Lucas, chief operating officer of McGrath Estate Agents told Property Observer.
“2012 was a year of continued expansion for McGrath.  Most notably the establishment of two significant company owned offices in Balmain and Paddington Brisbane.  We continued investing in our new businesses on the Gold Coast, project marketing division and our franchise rollout.
“All these businesses require initial investment and we are pleased with their substantial contribution to group earnings that will be reflected in the 2013 financial year.”
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