<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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The weak October result was broad based, according to RP Data.
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Capital city dwelling values ease 1% in October: RP Data's Tim Lawless

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In a recent study in Canada by a Professor Paul Anglin, an analysis of the language used in real estate ads shows that certain words are strongly correlated with the final sale price of a house. Surprisingly, words like "charming", "spacious" and "fantastic" do not equate to a higher sale price. The study dissected the wording of more than 20,000 Canadian home listings from 1997 to 2000.
According to the study, the five terms commonly used terms correlated to a higher sale price are:
<ul>
<li>Granite</li>
<li>State-of-the-art</li>
<li>Corian (Corian is the brand name for a solid surface material created by DuPont.)</li>
<li>Maple</li>
<li>Gourmet</li>
</ul>
The five terms correlated to a lower sale price are:
<ul>
<li>Fantastic</li>
<li>Spacious</li>
<li>!</li>
<li>Charming</li>
<li>Great neighbour</li>
</ul>
It’s clear that descriptive words that are physical descriptions of the house work well. For example even if you don’t like “granite’, the term doesn’t give the impression that the house is in poor repair.
The terms "fantastic" and "charming" are ambiguous terms that appear to be real estate agent code for a property that doesn’t have many specific strong points worth mentioning. The exclamation point was shown to be very bad news for the property, described as “a bid to paper over real shortcomings with false enthusiasm.”
The estate agent's job is to market a property as well as possible, and often the property has some serious shortcomings. The choice of language is crucial as it can focus the potential purchaser on the positive attributes of the property. However, it can also provide clues as to severe shortcomings.
 
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An agent in the U.S., John Reed, responded to the study by saying “I do not believe this means you can raise the sale price of your house by using the right ad words. Rather, the cause and effect are the opposite direction. Attractive houses have specific, objective, positive things that can be said about them because they are fundamentally better houses.”
I tend to agree with this point. It’s very easy to rattle off features like ducted air conditioning and roman blinds so long as the property has them. Of course the trouble with advertising something that has few discernible qualities is that you have to say something. Reed suggests that in advertising these properties you need to remember the phrase “If you have something to say, say it. If you don’t have anything to say, sing it.” In other words, if your product has no real advantages over the competition, use a jingle to advertise it. Reed argues that real estate ad words like “cozy” and “charming” are the print equivalent of a radio or TV jingle.
What can we take from this study? I would argue the importance of keeping ambiguous terms to a minimum and focusing on the specific physical strong points of the house wherever possible and applicable.
I’d love to hear from local agents about how they attempt to market some of their more ‘fantastic’ houses.
Some more words that helped to sell a home were: handyman special, curb appeal, move-in condition, landscaping and golf. Words that hurt a sale included: motivated seller, good value, as-is, clean, quiet and new paint.
Interestingly, listings where "landscaping" was heralded sold 20% faster, and homes in "move-in condition" took 12% less time to sell than the benchmark, although the study showed that "move-in condition" had an insignificant effect on the sales price.
It’s obvious that words matter, and Anglin’s study isn’t the only research that confirmed the importance of the choice of words. Whether it has an effect on the final sale price of the property or the time it takes to sell the property, both are important. Anglin was asked whether he had any advice for today’s sellers. "Yes," he replied. "Avoid the word 'motivated.' "
Homes where the seller was "motivated" took 15% longer to sell.
Mike Mortlock is a director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mcgqs.com.au">MCG Quantity Surveyors</a> specialising in tax depreciation schedules for property investors. <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/mike_mortlock">Mike can be followed on Twitter</a> 
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The five words that help sell your home and the five that don't motivate: Mike Mortlock

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Chateau Martine, the Brighton property inspired by the Palace of Versailles, was passed in at $6.5?million at this week's private auction through Jock Langley of Abercromby’s.
Chateau Martine had attracted interest from buyers from China, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan during its marketing campaign. There were two auction bidders.
The Martin Street, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton</a>, property was built for Melbourne businessman Will van de Linden in 2008.
It's on the market “walk in, walk out”, with all furnishings included. Langley says the furnishings are worth $10 million.
The Louis XVI furniture was custom-made room by room from reproduction specialists in Valencia for the four-storey property on an 850-square metre-block close to the beach.
It is serviced by a lift.
“It’s been a home designed around a concept. It’s a unique museum piece, and there will be a right buyer for it,’’ Langley says.
Louis XVI furniture on page 2.


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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/11/nov16martineinsid]}
 
 
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No buyers above $6.5 million stick their necks out for Versailles-inspired Chateau Martine 

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The graceful Widcombe mansion in the picturesque Adelaide Hills township of Aldgate has been sold.
Its fetched $1.55 million having been initially listed in 2008 with $2.4 million hopes and more recently at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-aldgate-108509851" target="_blank">$1,695,000</a>.
The parcel of land cost $250,000 in 2000.
Its facade mimics the Palladian-style Widcombe Manor, reputedly Bath's finest Georgian residence. As with the grand country house for which it is named, Widcombe comes on a park-like setting, albeit scaled down to a 2.5 acres.
There's a perfect symmetry to its Georgian sash windows.
The family saw the Bath version in a  House &amp; Garden magazine.
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Widcombe at Aldgate in the Adelaide Hills finally sells 

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RP Data has ascertained the 20 local government areas across Australian with the highest proportion of homes sold for under $400,000.
Over the past year, almost half of all house and unit sales in Australia were transacted at prices less than $400,000,  RP Data research analyst Cameron Kusher says.
"The good news is that across most regions at least 30% of home sales over the past year have been at prices below $400,000, highlighting there remains opportunities for price sensitive purchasers.
"These opportunities, particularly in capital city and coastal markets, are more prevalent in the unit market or within the outer suburbs where property prices tend to be lower."
Throughout Australia, 48.3% of all homes sold were at prices below $400,000.
Within the combined capital cities, just 37.2% of all sales were at a price below $400,000.
"Clearly, it will be a stretch for buyers on a below average wage to enter into most capital city housing markets," Kusher notes.
"An option for a buyer in this particular group may be to choose to look outside the capitals and focus on more affordable options such as units or purchasing with a partner," Kusher says.
 
Proportion of homes sold for under $400,000
Region State Proportion of sales &lt;400K
Far West NSW 98.6%
Mallee VIC 96.6%
Wimmera VIC 95.8%
Upper Great Southern WA 94.5%
Northern NSW 94.0%
Central West QLD 93.9%
Murray Lands SA 93.6%
Ovens-Murray VIC 92.9%
Murray NSW 92.7%
South East SA 92.1%
Goulburn VIC 92.0%
Mersey-Lyell TAS 91.9%
Murrumbidgee NSW 91.8%
East Gippsland VIC 91.2%
North Western NSW 90.4%
Central West NSW 89.3%
Northern SA 88.6%
Eyre SA 88.6%
Northern TAS 87.7%
Central Highlands VIC 87.6%
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Go bush: The 20 municipalities with the highest number of under $400,000 buying prospects: RP Data

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Property developer Lend Lease has suffered a “first strike” against its remuneration report, with a 26% vote against its plan at today’s annual general meeting.
The company is among the first major companies to be hit with a strike this annual general meeting season.  As at last count 17 companies have received a strike over executive pay this shareholder season.
Company chairman David Crawford told the Sydney meeting the property group would rework executive incentive plans in the wake of accounting issues uncovered in the Abigroup construction business.
There will be a 10% reduction in the quantum of the short-term incentive award for the last financial year for chief executive Steve McCann and some other senior Lend Lease executives.
Crawford said that the business environment was expected to remain difficult over the coming year, with Lend Lease in a strong position.
“We have good visibility over earnings in the 2013 financial year and have continued to win new projects that will underpin future earnings growth,” he said.
“We are well on the way to delivering our target 15% return on equity over the medium term.”
“I am very pleased that, while in a tough environment and with challenges in some of our sectors, Lend Lease has stayed on course with its strategy and increased earnings for security holders,” said Crawford.
“Underpinning our strategy is a constant commitment to safety, sustainability and diversity."
He said over the year, the group had continued its stringent portfolio management to ensure it has the right mix of projects, sector and risk exposure as well as a disciplined capital allocation and return framework.
A “first strike” is registered when more than quarter of shareholders vote against a company’s remuneration report.
If is is repeated the following year, it can lead to a board spill.
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Property developer Lend Lease suffers a 'first strike' against its remuneration report

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Mirvac chairman James MacKenzie says the outlook for the residential property market is “stable” for the near term with a stronger outlook for NSW but concerns for the outer suburbs of Melbourne and south-east Queensland.
Speaking at Mirvac’s AGM in Sydney on the occasion of its 40th anniversary and at the first meeting attended by new CEO and managing director Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz, MacKenzie said it was fair to say that the residential property market “has performed better than many international markets in recent years, and we expect it to remain stable overall in the near term”.
“Specifically we see pockets of strength in NSW combined with continued weakness in south-east Queensland and the outer suburbs of Melbourne,” MacKenzie said.
He said “improved housing affordability” was a factor that was expected to underpin housing demand in the future.
“This is a factor that Mirvac watches closely – and it is significant that from the final quarter of 2010 to the September quarter of 2012 house price affordability improved by around 25%," said MacKenzie.
He also announced that Mirvac has pre-sold 80% of the first stage of its Harold Park flagship residential development in Glebe in inner Sydney.
MacKenzie said strong sales at major development projects such as Harold Park were a testament to its “highly targeted approach” and gave it the confidence to launch the second stage of its residential development last weekend.
The majority of second-stage dwellings <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/no-false-start-as-mirvac-secures-eden-harold-park-terrace-sellout/2012111257768" target="_blank">in Eden sold over the weekend</a>, with terraces home selling out just hours after launching.
MacKenzie said the other key new release apartment projects include Rhodes Pinnacle in Sydney and Yarra Point in Melbourne's Docklands, with a “strong contribution” also expected from master-planned communities at Elizabeth Hills and Middleton Grange in NSW.
He said Mirvac’s residential development division “achieved considerable success during the financial year, with just over $900 million in pre-sales on hand at year’s end and the settlement of 1,807 residential lots during 2012 ahead of target".
“The business is focusing on its competitive advantage in delivering quality residential projects with new releases that target price points and locations that have been identified using detailed demographic research,” he said.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
MacKenzie also used the opportunity of the AGM to thank <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/australian-capital-territory/ex-mirvac-boss-nick-collishaw-still-waiting-for-answers-on-sudden-departure/2012110757685" target="_blank">recently departed managing director and CEO Nick Collishaw</a>, who he said had done a good job “reviving Mirvac following the challenges of the global financial crisis.
“This included strengthening the group’s balance sheet and simplifying the business.  Mirvac now has the necessary foundations to move into the next phase of its growth strategy,” he said.
However, he said the decision to get rid of Collishaw and appoint Lloyd-Hurwitz as CEO and managing director in his place was unanimous and based on her leadership skills, experience and global reputation.
“Her knowledge of the domestic and global property sector, combined with her demonstrated ability to forge strong stakeholder relationships, are the key attributes needed to take Mirvac into the next phase of our growth.
“Her strong communication skills and leadership style will augment the culture of the business which we believe is critical to delivering the Mirvac strategy.”
In her first address as CEO Lloyd-Hurwitz said Mirvac’s remain on track to achieve its 2013 target of 1,800 lot settlements.
“Across both our apartments and master-planned communities product lines, we have seen some solid results."
She also highlighted the strong sales success at Harold Park as well as 98% pre-sales success at Chatswood Era project, providing “further evidence of the relative strength of the NSW  housing market which is our highest market weighting”.
“Our focused approach in Victoria has seen good results in high-density housing projects.
“At Yarra Point, we will commence settlements in the second half of this financial year.
“Yarra Point is 100% pre-sold for 2013 financial year forecast earnings, with 85% pre-sold overall.
“We continue to see signs of recovery in the WA market, with our projects at Mandurah and Jane Brook performing well against sales targets," she said.
“Queensland continues to be our weakest market with expectations of a sustained recovery still some time away.”
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Stable outlook for residential market with improving housing affordability to underpin demand: Mirvac AGM

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The Palm Beach retreat of the late Lady (Sonia) McMahon has been sold for $2 million at its executors' auction. There were three registered bidders.
The three-bedroom, three-bathroom Ralston Road Palm Beach weekender had been in the Burton-Taylor family since bought for $29,575 in 1968.
The unrenovated brick-and-timber 1950s house was designed by architect John Suttor. The LJ Hooker estate agent <a target="_blank" href="https://palmbeach.ljhooker.com.au/2JEF6Z">David Edwards </a>was suggesting a $2.25 million plus price estimate pre-auction for the 1,350-square-metre property, which Lady McMahon had made available for her hairdresser's usage.
Lady McMahon, widow of the former prime minister Sir William McMahon, was 77 when she died in April 2010. The estate is being sold off by their children, the Hollywood actor Julian McMahon and his two sisters.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/julian-mcmahon-and-sisters-to-split-%24625-million-proceeds-from-lady-sonia-mcmahons-home-sale/2012070255376">The sibblings have sold two Bellevue Hill properties since May last year. </a>
The latest sale lifts the sales tally from $15.25 million to $17.25 million – equating to about $5.8 million for each child, albeit less costs, which include sizeable land tax charges.
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Lady Sonia McMahon's Palm Beach retreat sells 

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The NSW-based housing construction company Holmwood Builders, trading as Procorp, has gone into voluntary administration.
The Procorp group has 50-plus employees an estimated 500 creditors, with offices in Sydney, Newcastle, the NSW South Coast, Southern Highlands and Albury.
Procorp has offices in Narellan, Albury, Beresfield and Ulladulla with display homes located at Oran Park, Waterford County in Thornton (Hunter region), The Elms in Thurgoona (Albury region) and Renwick Estate, Mittagong (Southern Highlands).
Hall Chadwick is assessing Procorp's business affairs, with a meeting scheduled by accountant Domenic Calabretta for Friday, November 23.
The company had 90 homes under construction, with another 50 homes set for commencement.
Cashflow problems and weaker housing market were the fundamental catalysts, Calabretta told Ross Greenwood on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.2gb.com/audioplayer/5781">2GB Money Talk</a>.
The Procorp Group began operation as Procorp Property in Narellan in 1998, and for several years traded as a Professionals estate agency. It was founded by real estate agent Michael Everard, who teamed up with home builder Ian Tyson of Holmwood Builders in 2000.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/procorp.jpg">
Its marketing logo was “It’s Procorp’s No Hidden Surprises Guarantee. It means all you have to focus on, is moving in.”
It retains a property management division.
Calabretta has advised Procorp had home warranty insurance so those who had hired it to build homes could make a claim to insurer QBE. Those with homes under construction are being urged to get a quantity survoyors progress report.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission’s annual report on corporate insolvencies, released in September, found the construction industry had the single highest number of insolvencies nationwide, making up 22.1% of the 10,000 insolvencies plus across Australia in 2011-12.
It represented double the retail industry in second spot.
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NSW home builder Procorp goes into voluntary administration

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Melbourne Music Week’s secret pop-up music venue has been revealed as the gothic Argus building on the corner of LaTrobe Street and Elizabeth Street.
The 86-year-old building has been in decrepit state for decades. Its first tenant, The Argus daily newspaper, closed in 1956.
The Herald and Weekly Times Group bought the Argus newspaper along with the building in 1957 and later closed the newspaper down and sold the building.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/argus.jpg">
Education entrepreneur and founder of Melbourne Institute of Technology (MIT) Shesh Gale bought the site in 2010. His company, MIT Group Holdings, a holding of Ghale Investments, bought the six-storey building from La Trobe University for a reported $15 million.
In Melbourne the group also own 374-376 Bourke Street, 386-412 William Street, 388-390 Lonsdale Street, 277-279 Flinders Lane (Tomasetti House), 179 Collins Street and 1151-1155 High Street in Armadale. They also own 154-158 Sussex Street in Sydney.
Ghale has the site earmarked as the future flagship campus for MIT, established in 1996.
According to BRW, the Nepalese-born Ghale is worth $269 million and is the 176th richest person in Australia.
The building was constructed in the Beaux Arts style by architecture firm Godfrey &amp; Spowers. It represents a combination of the interwar styles, a stripped classical composition with Beaux-Arts, Chicagoesque and Moderne influences.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/argus2.png">
Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle has labelled the site one of the worst bomb sites in Melbourne.
In July Doyle said it was a building of ''historic significance, but it is deteriorating as we look at it and I want to give them the strong message that we will not tolerate the tactic of allowing a building to deteriorate to a point where you can't do anything with it – we will be saying to them we are putting you on notice now''.
 
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The six-storey Argus building was built in 1926 and is riddled with asbestos.
La Trobe University bought the site for $8 million in 2004 to use as a campus but sold it after asbestos removal and renovation costs proved too high. The university reportedly spent more than $34 million developing the site.
In 2010, Ghale had indicated he would spend about $50 million on the renovation, which would be completed by the end of 2011. Any evidence of this has yet to be seen.
"We have been working on a number of design options over the last two years which are ready to go ahead and currently considering the option of staged development, which we hope to  finalise in the very near future," a spokesperson for the company told Property Observer.
Prior to La Trobe University's ownership, the building was owned by the Stamoulis family’s Ryssal-Three Pty Ltd, who tried for many years to sell and sell the property.
La Trobe University took legal action against the vendor claiming it was misled over the state of the building. The action was settled out of court.
A large portion of the roof and several floor sections in the 1920s building are missing. Badly cracked concrete exposes rusty iron beams and severe water damage throughout. Much of it will remain off limits, with just the two lower floors to be used.
<a href="https://blog.melbmusic.com/" target="_blank">Melbourne Music Week</a> has taken on a short-term lease for the building to use a festival site. The tenancy was meant to be kept a secret until November 16, the opening day, but details were leaked to The Age.
The tenancy was orchestrated by event entrepreneurs Kevin Karlberg and Starr Guzman of Marksthespot in conjunction with the City of Melbourne.
''Our main theme is reclamation,'' Guzman told The Age.
''We become a living organism in something that has decayed and we bring out the beauty in it.''
The festival will be restricted to the bottom two floors, with most of the building off-limits due to missing roof and floor sections, exposed rust and water damage.
Festival organisers say asbestos has been removed and stress tests allow 400 people upstairs and 800 downstairs once stairs are built.
The festival starts on November 16 with French dance duo Housse de Racket.
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