<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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<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/knightsbridge.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">
The Queensland hotel and pub owner Robert Fraser-Scott has lost control of his prestige Sovereign Island residence (pictured above). It's been listed for October 10 auction under instructions from Ernst &amp; Young through Ray White Surfers Paradise agent Shaun Kaddatz. The property has its own website, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.2KnightsbridgeWest.com">www.2KnightsbridgeWest.com</a>.
Last November Fraser-Scott thought he'd sold his mega-mansion, albeit for less than half what it cost four years earlier. The Knightsbridge Parade West property sold under the hammer for $3.5 million last November, but the November buyer has since lost the deposit Set on 2,369 square metres, Westley Manor had been bought from builders Rob Smith and wife Susan Chudley-Smith for $7.36 million in April 2007, just before the global financial crisis. It has six bedrooms, seven bathrooms, a mooring able to take two 18-metre boats and two jet-skis, a 1,500-bottle wine cellar, drive-through underground parking for 12 vehicles and resort-style grounds. The mansion also features a two-sided wall aquarium between the living and media rooms.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august16mcivor]}
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">It's not the only luxury Gold Coast property boomeranging back onto the market. Stand by for the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-surfers+paradise-111152495">next installment </a> of the Alex Povov-designed Gold Coast mansion listing (pictured above). It was sold by Queensland fund manager Mark McIvor to the NSW truckie Gary Fulton, who is now having another attempt at on-selling it. It failed to sell at August auction – passed in on a $5.5 million vendor bid by Coldwell Banker agent Alex Caraco, who now has its for November 3 auction.
McIvor, founder of failed fund manager Equititrust, lost the property to receivers, who sold it in January this year for $6.75 million. The sale, to New South Wales truckie Gary Fulton, raised eyebrows in the Gold Coast's depressed real estate market, as it was a sizable rise on the $4.55 million top bid at its unsuccessful 2011 auction.
In recent months <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/mark-mcivor-s-former-cronin-island-gold-coast-back-up-for-auction/2012072955758">the Commonwealth Bank sought to repossess the home,</a> launching Supreme Court action against Fulton company Vitago. But in August Caraco advised the local Gold Coast Bulletin that the court action against Vitago was "in abeyance'' and the truckie's company – not the bank – was currently selling the mansion. After the auction he suggested there had been genuine interest "from a gentleman from Melbourne, a lady in Hong Kong and a doctor in Sydney''. Caraco suggests some other interested parties are using the controversy attached to the property to try to get a bargain.
"The property is now going for auction for the second time, and we are saying the reserve has been lowered by $1 million," Caraco told Property Observer.
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Queensland pub owner Robert Fraser-Scott's Paradise Point mansion receivership listing: Title Tattle

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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/melbourne-agents-underquoting-price-expectations/2012090656435" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/77percent.gif"></a>
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/melbourne-agents-underquoting-price-expectations/2012090656435" target="_blank">percentage of Melbourne properties that sold above the upper end of the agent's quoted price guide</a> between July and early September this year. Of those that sold above expectations, they sold for an average of 5% above.
 
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<a href="/news"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/9m.gif"></a>
The <a href="/news">price achieved for Elysium</a>, a Hunters Hill Waterfront, which recently sold to Chinese buyers. The six-bedroom, five-bathroom Le Vesinet Drive, Pulpit Point, property on a 992-square-metre block has a Turkish steam bath. The sale is part of an emerging trend, with Chinese property buyers having the potential to create top-end housing market momentum in key cities across the world, including Sydney, according to international real estate group Savills.
 
<hr>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-set-to-follow-nsw-by-scrapping-%247000-first-home-owners-grant-in-favour-of-%2415000-handout-for-new-home-buyers/2012091056477"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/15k.gif"></a>
The amount the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-set-to-follow-nsw-by-scrapping-%247000-first-home-owners-grant-in-favour-of-%2415000-handout-for-new-home-buyers/2012091056477">Queensland government will give first-home buyers of new property</a> following changes announced in the budget this week. Before September 12, the government would provide $7,000 to first-home buyers, regardless of whether their acquisitions were new or existing property.
 
<hr>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/old-fashioned-studio-fails-to-ride-the-bondi-beach-property-wave/2012091156502"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/270k.gif"></a>
The<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/old-fashioned-studio-fails-to-ride-the-bondi-beach-property-wave/2012091156502"> price hopes for 14/68 Gould Street, Bondi</a>, marketed at Sydney's tiniest apartment. The 16-square-metre unit failed to attract a single bid at its auction.
 
<hr>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/buyers-sought-for-challengers-kings-cross-centre-below-iconic-coca-cola-sign-with-%2425-million-expectations/2012091156461"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/25m.gif"></a>
The<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/buyers-sought-for-challengers-kings-cross-centre-below-iconic-coca-cola-sign-with-%2425-million-expectations/2012091156461"> price expectations for the Kings Cross Centre</a> beneath the iconic neon Coca-Cola sign, which has recently been listed for sale by fund manager Challenger.
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The 5 must-know numbers of the working week, starting with the Melbourne properties sold above agents' guides

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Interior designer Tina De Salis has secured $3.01 million for her Castlecrag home, which she's modernised since she purchased it for $2.59 million in 2009.
The 1960s home has five bedrooms. It sits on a 696-square-metre mostly level block on The Redoubt.
Mark O'Brien of Richardson &amp; Wrench Castlecrag &amp; Northbridge had the listing with $3 million-plus hopes.
Edward de Salis and Tina de Salis, who is a partner in Tina &amp; Louise Interiors, bought the house from architect Ervin Mahrer, who built it in 1966.
It was built of solid brick with reinforced concrete, extensive use of Californian redwood, mudgee slate stone walls and polished brushbox flooring.
Property Observer had contrasting <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/with-dash-of-vivienne-westwood-wallpaper-designer-tina-de-salis-lists-castlecrag-mid-century-home-as-past-meets-present/2012082156141" target="_blank">then and now images </a>from the two sales campaigns.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/castlecrag1.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/castlecrag2.jpg">
 
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Modernised Castlecrag 1960s charmer fetches $3.01 million

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An iconic 1910 Newtown, Geelong, warehouse has sold for more than $950,000 after auction.
The property– set close to Corio Bay – passed in at $950,000 and later sold for “significantly more”. The price guide leading into the auction was mid-$900,000 to $1.05 million. It was listed by Robert Creece and Tony Young from Robert Creece Real Estate  Manifold Heights.
The Edwardian building was originally built for Collins Bros Pty Ltd Woollen Manufacturers with a second-level Early Modernist extension added in 1934.
The Latrobe Boulevard building has been under renovation for the last five years. One renovation project was finished the day before it went to auction. Parts of the property remain to be renovated.
The heritage-listed building is considered historically significant as a representative embodiment of industrial practice and the woollen processing industry in Newtown before the Second World War.
Heritage documents describe the building as “a two-storey symmetrical red brick industrial building with later two-storey additions”.
“The three-bay front is divided by flat piers, becoming semi-octagonal section over window-head height on foliate corbels.”
The leadlight windows are Art Nouveau influenced, and there is an “unusual” nine-panel door and knocker.
The manganese brown brick first floor is adorned with a massive sans serif sign in a recessed panel.
At the left of the property is an Edwardian timber veranda with an arched palisade valence and a picket fence at one side.
A 1946 obituary of Basil N. M. Collins, a member of the firm of Collins Bros Pty. Ltd, says he was a former player and president of the Geelong Football Club. He was also a Grand Lodge officer of the Masonic Lodge.
The renovation has yielded 570 square metres of internal space. The building sits on a 945-square-metre block of land.
The lower level is currently set up as an office or showroom or retail area that leads through to a open space, which is marketed as ideal for an art gallery or cafe or conference room.
That room opens through to a private paved courtyard and the rear yard.
The upstairs portion of the property is currently set up as a residential area with two bedrooms, an open plan living and dining room, kitchen and bathroom.
The former power room has undergone partial renovation towards a two level apartment.
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Geelong 1910 woollen warehouse sells for more than $950,000

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Islay House, Woodend's most recognised heritage landmark, has been sold by its mortgagee-in-possession, the National Australia Bank on its third marketing attempt.

It sold for more than its advertised $550,000 reserve price through <a href="https://realestate.macedonrangesweekly.com.au/overview/4166447/125-high-street-woodend-3442/" target="_blank">Keating Real Estate </a>after its asking price was cut from its previous $694,000 expectations.

It sat among the rustic regional Victoria property portfolio of the bankrupted Tess Lawrence, the former Flinders and Spencer Street newspaper firebrand who despite the sales continues her stoush with her lender.

<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/spraypaint.png" width="470">

Source:<a href="https://www.independentaustralia.net" target="_blank"> Independent Australia</a>

Lawrence earlier this year <a href="https://www.independentaustralia.net/2012/business/property/tess-lawrence-battles-nab-over-historic-islay-house/" target="_blank">spray-painted the Woodend property in the lead-up to its initial mortgagee auction in protest </a>to what she claimed was an unfair repossession following a “preposterous concoction of debt” and inadequate notification of the proceedings against her. After its second scheduled auction date the agents noted the property had drawn over 670 enquiries, with about 375 inspections and 37 requests for contracts from prospective purchasers prior to the unsuccessful auction.

An affidavit of bank officer James Wyatt sworn September 2011 gave the quantum of <a href="https://www.scvcases.com.au/MyPDF%20Library/%5b2011%5d%20VSC%20556.pdf">NAB’s total money claim </a> against Lawrence as $3,413,316.

It dated back to an originating 2001 flexiplus mortgage facility National Bank choice package of $434,000, which by 2006 was re-written to have a $3,084,000 limit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31257]

The NAB lent across five properties, which had been accumulated over a nine-year period from 1992, costing $1.28 million.

Islay House, the landmark 1860s High Street, Woodend property, which Lawrence had planned to restore as the subject of a reality TV series, sits on what was the highway running from Melbourne to the goldfields. Set on 2,300 square metres it last traded at $360,000 in 2001.

"Before Woodend was by-passed Islay House was probably the most recognised house between Melbourne and Mildura," its marketing said.

<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/loughmoe.jpg" width="470">

The other Lawrence properties were on Leggatt Street, Daylesford, her home at Herbert Street, Northcote, and two properties on Bannerman Street, Bendigo, including <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-bendigo-110226017" target="_blank">Loughmoe House</a> (pictured above), the 1870s grand colonial residence designed by period architect Robert Alexander Love for William Purcell. The solid stone Bendigo hilltop estate also known as Carlisle, Selb Villa and Leigh Lodge, sits on 1,012-square-metre holding that sold last month through Tweed Sutherland First National Bendigo. Its price is undisclosed. It cost Lawrence $265,000 in 1999.

Her neighbouring 1,038-square-metre Bannerman Street property was sold for $305,000 mid-year to Ellis and Angela Nuttal. It had previously traded at $365,000 in 1998. There is a subdivision application currently before Bendigo Council.

<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/legatt.jpg" width="470">

The Daylesford country cottage in the lake precinct sold at an undisclosed price earlier this month through Hocking Stuart Daylesford. The<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/29-leggatt-street-daylesford/Property-Details-sold-residential-4268435" target="_blank"> timber two-bedroom cottage</a> (pictured above and below) with french doors and a Juliet balcony was set in an established garden of 800 square metres. It cost $140,500 in 1994.

<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/legatt2.jpg" width="470">

There was also her principle place of residence on <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/9-herbert-street-northcote/Property-Details-buy-residential-4314781" target="_blank">9 Herbert Street, Northcote, </a> from which she was evicted in July this year. It last traded in 1992 at $165,000. It was for sale with offers, to be made in a sealed envelope and delivered to Brace Estate Agents by 5pm, due yesterday. It was often used as a safe house for victims of domestic violence.

Channel 7's<a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/today-tonight/article/-/12940385/mortgage-stress-desperation/"> Today Tonight </a> reported she hasn't made repayments since November 2007.

In August 2008, NAB served Lawrence with a default notice when the stated sum of $2,727,594.55 was due.

Her bankruptcy trustee is Anthony Cant. Fighting what she's called her "bogus bankruptcy" earlier this year she reported she was compiling evidence for appeals in the Court of Appeal, the Supreme Court of Victoria and the Federal Court of Victoria regarding the bank action and the bankruptcy sequestration arising from the March 2009 McKean Park judgment of $10,793 in the Magistrates’ Court in Victoria against the debtor. However her Federal Court application for an extension of time to appeal from the November 2011 sequestration order made by Justice North in the Federal Court was dismissed in April.

<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/tess.jpg" style="margin: 4px; float: left;">

Lawrence has been a high-profile broadcaster and journalist advocate and in recent times a specialist in ethical media services and crisis management and consultant in media strategy.

Lawrence was at the forefront of women's liberation journalism – credited as the first female feature writer to sit equally in the male-dominated newsroom at the Melbourne Herald in the mid-1970s. Her scoops over the decades included her 1987 interview with Robert Trimbole's mistress, Ann-Marie Presland, on the ABC's 7.30 Report.

She is currently contributing editor at large at <a href="https://www.independentaustralia.net/" target="_blank">Independent Australia</a>, a progressive web journal focusing on politics, democracy, the environment, Australian history and Australian identity.
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Islay House, the 1860s Woodend relic, sells in Tess Lawrence mortgagee disposal

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Planning inefficiencies and government bureaucracy are limiting the supply of new housing and raising its cost, according to research published by the Reserve Bank of Australia.
The new report finds the length and complexity of the planning process, issues related to the provision and funding of infrastructure, land ownership and geographical constraints, and other challenges are all are limiting the home building sector.
Protracted planning processes are one of the chief constraints to the fast delivery of housing projects, according to the Supply-side Issues in the Housing Sector report, published in the RBA’s September quarter bulletin.
“While there are sound reasons for councils and government agencies to impose stringent tests during the planning phase, the uncertainty and time typically taken to settle planning issues can increase the cost and risk of housing development,” says the RBA.
“In particular, because developers incur holding costs on land (both the cost of financing its acquisition and land tax), the time it takes to get through the planning process increases total development costs.”
The report also finds that a shift by state governments towards user-funding of water, sewerage, transport and energy infrastructure as opposed to state funding is increasing the cost of housing.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/09/rbasept15.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rbasept15thumb.gif"></a>
“Infrastructure charges raise the final sale price, reduce developer margins and/or lower the value of the undeveloped land, all of which can make the process of housing development less viable.”
The structure of land ownership is another big issue when it comes to developing greenfield land, with multiple owners of land at the fringe of cities complicating the process, according to the RBA report.
“Liaison contacts note that existing landholders often resist selling for lifestyle reasons and/or because their price expectations exceed the current market valuation.”
The cost of developing infrastructure in Sydney was significantly higher than in other capital cities, the report found.
In 2010 it cost $44,000 per lot to build adequate infrastructure, compared with $26,000 in Brisbane, $21,000 in Perth, $12,000 in Melbourne and $7,000 in Adelaide.
Part of this cost was put down to government charges which added just under 15% to the cost of each lot in Sydney, 10% in Brisbane and Perth and 5% in Melbourne.
This means the profit margins for developers in Sydney are much lower than in other capital cities.
The report says recent policy changes have party alleviated the situation but says “it is likely that these important issues will remain on the policy agenda for some time”.
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Red tape limiting the supply of new housing: RBA

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Secret Hills, the 87-hectare Beaudesert thorougbred breeding farm, has been listed for October 5 auction under instructions of Ernst &amp; Young.
It last sold in 2009 for $4.6 million to breeders John Doherty and Janette Gilchrist, who expanded their breeding interests with the acquisition of the then known Palmaday Stud.
The inaugural stallion to stand at Secret Hill Farms was Exceedingly Good.
In June this year it was reported by The Warwick Daily News that John Doherty was being pursued by a finance company over funds used to buy thoroughbred racehorses.
Documents lodged in the Supreme Court of Queensland showed Westlawn Finance Limited lodged a claim against Doherty and his partner, Janette Gilchrist, after financing Secret Hill Thoroughbreds.
The statement of claim sought $511,124.79 from the couple, including $510,302.03 in outstanding loan payments, and more than $70,000 in interest accrued since June 30 last year, plus costs.
The property which has been listed through Ray White Rural agents Bruce Douglas, Des Cuffe and Andrew Thomson, includes a 1400-metre sand and grass training track, 40 stables, breeding barn and horse hospital.
There's also a three bedroom main homestead and four staff/guest dwellings.
It is located 78 kilometres from the Gold Coast and 77 kms from Brisbane's CBD.
Another property owned by Secret Hill Farms Pty Ltd on Cryna Road is listed for auction on October 5 under instruction from Ernst &amp; Young receivers Justin Walsh and Philip Campbell-Wilson. Located at 423 Cryna Road, the 22 hectare property sold for $1.05 million in July 2009.
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Secret Hills, Beaudesert, thoroughbred horse breeding stud for receivership sale

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A Georgian harbour at Charlestown in Cornwall that has been under private ownership for almost 20 years is on the market with a price tag of £4 million, tweets The UK's Daily Telegraph. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/TeleProperty"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/teletweet.jpg"></a>
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Your own Cornwall English harbour for £4 million: Tweet of the day

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Privately owned valuations groups WBP Property Group and MVS National Valuers have formed a new nationwide alliance called Austwide Valuations.
Austwide Valuations aims to set a new benchmark for valuations standards and provide greater service and coverage for each group’s clients.
MVS national spokesman Jeff Keane says Austwide is a national initiative to improve the standard of residential real estate valuation services in Australia.
“Austwide ensures valuation products and services are compliant with lawful and regulatory guidelines, reliable and accurate and of a high professional standard,” says Keane.
Chief executive of WBP Property Group Greville Pabst says the Australian valuation industry is rapidly evolving and many smaller regional and rural valuation firms are struggling to meet current compliance standards.
Austwide Valuations membership is open to all Australian valuation firms, with the aim of reducing insurance risk and improving reporting standards.
“Austwide Valuations has developed a quality assurance certification standard known as AustwideQA. The certification standard is designed to monitor and manage quality control, risk compliance and performance under a strict code of conduct for Austwide members,” says Keane.
WBP Property Group and MVS National Valuers will continue to operate independently.
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WBP and MVS valuation firms form Austwide Valuations in hopes of setting industry benchmark

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Sentiment among Australian shopping centre managers has weakened over the last quarter as recent rate cuts failed to improve the sector, according to a survey by Jones Lang LaSalle.
As of August, 53% of centre managers are expecting at least some sales growth over the next 12 months, down from 57% in May.
The drop in sentiment comes as interest rate cuts in May and June did little to improve tenant enquiry levels and consumer behaviour, the report noted.
Overall neighbourhood centres have been doing better than sub-regional centres.
Tenant enquiry has weakened over the period with just 12% of respondents reporting an improvement in enquiry levels over the June quarter.
The vacancy rate in sub-regional centres rose from 1.4% in March to 1.9% in June 2012. The report says while the rate is relatively low, the sub-regional centre vacancy rate has trended upwards the last three quarters.
Vacancy rates in neighbourhood centres dropped from 5.1% in March to 4.2% in June. The report says part of the reason for the reduced rate has been the recent letting up of vacant spaces in centres opened over the last 12 months.
The report find average specialty rents have experienced “solid” growth in the past 12 months, particularly in neighbourhood centres.
In the year to June 2012, average rental growth for the portfolio of neighbourhood centres was 4.7%.
Sub-regional centre growth has been weaker, with an average of 2.3% over the 12 month period.
In line with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/shopping-centre-landlords-forced-to-discount-leases-to-attract-new-tenants/2012090656430">recent reports</a>, the Jones Lang LaSalle report find centre managers have been using a range of incentives to retain and attract tenants, including both rent free periods and fit-out contributions.
Around 63% of respondents expected either no growth, or growth of less than 3% over the next 12 months.
The report finds tenants have been experiencing difficulties in obtaining bank finance as banks are cautious of lending to new retailers.
There have been mounting concern over the increased number of tenants on holdover leases, which is impacting on the security of income in shopping centres according to the report.
Tenancy mix was again highlighted as key to driving growth in a challenging environment.  A broader range of services is being targeted to replace struggling retail categories.
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