<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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Moranbah, the heart of coal mining activity in Queensland's Bowen Basin region, was recently added to a list of WA and Queensland mining towns deemed by Westpac to be risky “single-industry” towns.
This means that investors will find it harder to get loans to purchase investment properties in Moranbah, with the bank deeming the town to have a potentially unsustainable housing market.
Its inclusion comes shortly before RP Data calculations that placed <a href="/news">Moranbah top of a list of regional Queensland towns where it is cheaper – by an average of $4,000 – to buy a house than rent.</a>
However, Westpac will now discount rental income listed as security on investor mortgage applications by 40%, taking into account the risk of rising vacancies.
“An application with security in a single industry town will have all rental income assessed at 60%,” says the bank in a note to mortgage brokers.
The new requirement is in addition to the rule that a 30% deposit is required in these postcodes for property to avoid the added burden of lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) – well above the usual 20% deposit requirement.
The policy changes apply to two investment loans – Westpac’s variable rate Equity Access Loan (EAL) and its fixed rate Investment Property Loan (IPL).
Westpac spokesperson Danny Johns told Property Observer recently the decision to add Moranbah and other mining towns to the list is due to concerns that in these locations the mining boom is driving house prices and rental yields to relatively unsustainable levels.
As an example, he says house prices have jumped 44% in Moranbah with yields at 13.5%, with property valuers telling Westpac that these figures are not sustainable.
Other towns added to the list recently include another Queensland coal mining town Dysart in the Isaac region south of Moranbah and Port Hedland and the East Pilbara region.
The full list of new towns included on Westpac’s list of “single-industry” postcodes are in Queensland:
• <a href="/news">Blackwater </a>(4714)
• <a href="/news">Moranbah </a>(4744)
• <a href="/news">Dysart </a>(4745)
• <a href="/news">Middlemount </a>and <a href="/news">May Downs</a> in the Isaac region (4746)
And in Western Australia:
• <a href="/news">Roebourne </a>(including <a href="/news">Karratha</a>, <a href="/news">Baynton</a>, <a href="/news">Bulgarra</a> and <a href="/news">Pegs Creek</a>, 6714)
• <a href="/news">Port Hedland</a> (including <a href="/news">South Hedland</a>, 6721)
• <a href="/news">East Pilbara</a> (6753)
Real Estate Institute of WA president David Airey says the changes probably reflect a view from within the bank that “housing prices and rental returns in particular, in places like Karratha, Port Hedland, South Hedland and Newman are unsustainable”.
“The state government is anxious to address affordability in the Pilbara, and while this won’t happen overnight it’s clear that housing demands will be better met over the next few years.”
Airey says Westpac has the right to “calibrate its business model as it sees fit”.
“But it would be a pity if the result meant that investors were less inclined to supply much needed housing in the state’s northwest. In some ways it’s a catch-22 situation,” he adds.
Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) chief executive Anton Kardash says lending criteria for remote areas has been restricted for some time, given these areas are often reliant on single industries for employment.
“Investors in these areas need to be aware that lenders will require a larger deposit dependent on the element of risk lenders attribute to buying property in a specific region.”
Jane Slack-Smith, director at Investors Choice Mortgages, says the change in policies indicate that Westpac is less keen to lend in mining locations.
“The bank is discounting rental income to allow for vacancies,” she tells Property Observer.
Slack-Smith says Westpac is implementing these changes in places like Karratha despite her clients being able to ask rent of $2,000 per week over a five-year lease.
“Some lenders will take 100% of rental income, but Westpac only takes 60% of income.”
“Some lenders don’t have postcode restrictions,” she says.
For advice on navigating hotspots, download our free eBook: <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-tools-for-getting-through-the-hotspot-tipping-maze" target="_blank">Tools for Getting Through the Hotspot Maze.</a>
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Moranbah and Port Hedland unsustainable 'single-industry' mining boom hotspots: Westpac 

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The palatial Brisbane River apartment of the fake Tahitian prince Joel Morehu-Barlow has been snappily sold – at a price understood to have matched its purchase by Morehu-Barlow, who is accused of embezzling more than $16 million from Queensland Health.
His New Farm apartment, touted for upcoming auction, sold in an off-market deal that will reap the public trustee about $5.65 million.
Public Trustee official Tony Steinmetz, confirmed to the Brisbane Courier Mail the property known as the River House was under contract.
The sale is unconditional and will settle in February apparently to a buyer who had been interested in buying it when it last sold in 2010.
Steinmetz says approval for the deal was sought from the Supreme Court.
The unit was to be taken to auction with Johnston Dixon Quality Property awaiting repairs to be carried out.
Morehu-Barlow paid $5.65 million in 2010.
Steinmetz says it was decided to accept the early offer for the property as the offer exceeded three valuations. It would also save the expense of a marketing campaign.
The River House is part of the Pietra development built by Tom Dooley Developments in Moray Street. It has three bedrooms, five bathrooms and a wine cellar.
 
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Fake prince's Brisbane riverfront apartment sells at realistic price

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Mention of the Gold Coast residential market rarely raises an eyebrow these days, unless there's a story about a megamillion-dollar sale, or word of more bad karma in the market.
In looking at this market, it is helpful to understand its housing cycle, which is pronounced, and which usually has a six-year frequency.
The region experienced market peaks in 1988, 1992, 2002 and 2008; and downturns in 1982, 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2012.
After almost 30 years in this business, you see patterns emerge. And history usually repeats. Based on past performance, the Coast looks set to have a market peak in 2014-2015, 2020 and 2026; and likely will experience downturns in 2017-2018 and in 2023.
Note the Commonwealth Games due for 2018 will, I believe, have little to no impact on the property cycle.
But data aside, there are tell-tale signs the Gold Coast market, like its Brisbane counterpart, is about to turn a corner. Some of these include:
<ol>
<li>Well-priced properties starting to sell soon after listing</li>
<li>Multiple offers occurring on well-priced properties</li>
<li>Some properties are now selling above reserve</li>
<li>Vacancy rates are on the decline and rents are rising</li>
<li>Fewer well-priced properties for sale - there is a shortage of saleable stock for sale across many parts of the Coast</li>
<li>Time on the market, as a result, is dropping and, in some cases, sharply</li>
<li>Intra-state and interstate interest is on the increase</li>
</ol>
It is apparent the Goldie market has just about bottomed and we are likely to see values grow during 2013 – probably in the vicinity of 5%. But those values might sit there for some time.
While the Gold Coast's population could rise by 135,000 over the next 10 years – which suggests the need for 50,000 to 55,000 new dwellings – indicators are the largest growth segments will be first-home buyers and those in their late 60s to early 80s.
Both groups are expected to take up a 25% market share of population growth, and both will be financially constrained.
Although the emerging shape of the Coast suggests the need for more detached housing, there is not enough alternative and more affordable housing types being supplied. These include townhouses, terrace homes, "plexes'' and, in some cases, suburban-based, walk-up apartment product.
The irony is the Gold Coast is one of the most undersupplied housing markets in Australia. What is supplied has little demand, and too much of it is focused around lifestyle and discretionary spend rather than on real life. Trends also suggest a need to expand its urban area to accommodate projected population growth.
The region will benefit from an increase in the supply of affordable new housing in locations where permanent residents can afford to buy or rent.
Michael Matusik is the founder of <a href="https://www.matusik.com.au/" target="_blank">Matusik Property Insights</a>, which has helped over 550 new residential projects come to fruition.  Read <a href="https://www.matusikmissive.wordpress.com%20/" target="_blank" title="blocked::https://www.matusikmissive.wordpress.com /">Michael's blog</a>or follow him on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/michaelmatusik" target="_blank">Twitter</a> or connect via <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmatusik">LinkedIn</a>.
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michaelmatusik-49YzLvdmNv

The seven tell-tale signs Gold Coast market has bottomed out and is about to turn the corner

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Sketchleys Island, a tightly held 24-hectare island near Newcastle, has been listed for sale at $495,000.
Set in the Karuah River, the island was once a thriving dairy operation, with the rich soil producing award-winning cream.
After the farm was in the Sketchley family for three generations, Robert and his wife, Lenore, have decided to sell the island, which is just 100 metres from the town of Allworth, where the family had another property.
It was known as Flying Fox Island before 1922 and gazetted Kitchener Island by the Geographical Names Board in 1986, but the council rates comes through as Sketchleys Island. It is fully navigable to Nelson Bay.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sketcheys.jpg">
The main island comprises around 60 acres (24 hectres), with its two  much smaller sister islands of around three to five acres each.
The family ran the tidal salt river island as a going concern – harvesting oysters during winter and operating a boat hire business from the mainland. As the island's only house was demolished by the 1920s, the family rowed out several times a day to manage the farm.
The first family member owner was Thomas Sketchley, who was for three decades with the Newcastle and Hunter River Steamship Company.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-nsw-allworth-7459223">agent John Miles from Webb Bros </a>noted its pastures are mainly kikuyu.
"Unfortunately nothing remains from the original homestead, although one can clearly see remnants of the old timber dairy and its adjacent yards," he adds.
The island is home to pelicans and black cockatoos.
"Construct your family home on your own island, which would certainly present an astute buyer with the lifestyle that most can only dream about," Webb says.
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Uninhabited NSW dairy farm island listed after 90 years of Sketchley family ownership

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A 110-hectare barramundi, cattle and lychee farm is listed for auction in far north Queensland’s Mount Molloy, 60 kilometres inland from Cairns.
The farm comes with 10 aquaculture ponds, which yield up to one tonne of barramundi per week.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/barramundi.jpg">
The farm also has 700 lychee trees under irrigation and 80 hectares of fattening paddocks.
After operating as a farm for five years the farm is being sold as part of a deceased estate.
It has three kilometres of river frontage from the Rifle Creek, which gives the property perennial water supply. The property comes with unrestricted access to the creek.
It comes equipped with a farm shed with a concrete hardstand, generator room and cooling facilities, worker accommodation and a large diesel generator which automatically cuts in if the power is interrupted.
It also comes with a gazebo and barbeque overlooking the ponds.
Included in the sale is a list of plant and equipment including a late-model Landcruiser, six-metre container, New Holland backhoe, pond aerators, finglerings cages, forklift, water tant and a 4x4 Kubota all-terrain vehicle.
It’s being sold by Tony Roberts of Colliers International.
“The property offers a great opportunity to escape the rat race, live amongst beautiful surroundings and be a part of an exciting, expanding aquaculture industry," he says.
“This is a tight-run operation which can be operated by a family or an owner with three or four staff (seasonal). The aquaculture has room for expansion.”
Water from the river is fed through into to the dam which then feeds the ponds and is also used to irrigate the lychee orchard.
The auction has been put off, with paperwork being required by the beneficiaries of the will.
Roberts says he has had strong interest from around Australia.
“We’ve had 14 registered inquiries interested in bidding,” Roberts says.
He says with properties like this it’s hard to gauge a sale price.
“Because of the situation as a deceased estate, it’s not like walking into a fish farm that’s up and running.”
“It’s in a holding pattern. It’s got fish on it, but you’d have to restock.”
He says it’s not the biggest barramundi farm in the region, but there is room to install a few more ponds.
“And you diversify with redclaw [crayfish].”
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Barramundi, cattle and lychee farm fishing for new buyer in Mount Molloy, Queensland

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The recently featured property used as the Vickers'  family house in the Channel 10 series Puberty Blues has been offered for the first time in 47 years.
The property, home to a family of five, is very much in its 1970s condition, including the seven different types of wallpaper.
There's patterned carpet, coloured bathroom and wood light fittings at the Oaks Street, Cronulla address.
The series location manager Peter Hicks scoured for months to find the right house with authentic '70s interiors.
The house goes to auction this weekend with $1.2 million-plus hopes through Dax De Traubenberg and Justin Ressler of Ressler Property.
Debbie is played by Ashleigh Cummings, the daughter of Judy and Martin Vickers, played by Claudia Karvan and Jeremy Lindsay Taylor in the high-rating series that tells the story of two girls growing up in The Shire in the 1970s.
Its is based on the iconic 1979 novel by Kathy Lette and Gabrielle Carey.
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Puberty Blues Vickers' family house time warp listed

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The Waverton residence known as The Ferryman has been scheduled for October 6 auction.
It's a freestanding <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-waverton-111497827">two-storey Euroka Street residence </a>with a 127-year history dating back to its construction by Michael Doyle.
Set within a heritage conservation zone, its been recently refurbished.
It comes with $1.18 million plus hopes through through Tom Scarpignato of Sydney Boutique Property.
Its named derives from an early former tenant. 
The agency also has <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/henry-lawson-s-former-waverton-abode-listed/2012090556413">the nearby semi </a> that was the abode in the 1920s to the poet Henry Lawson.
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The Ferryman Waverton residence listing

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Australian poet Henry lawson continues to be regularly celebrated by estate agents.
Not through poetry recitals, but in brochures claiming Henry Lawson lived at the house they have for sale.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/lawson.jpg">
This is one of the several 1860s Waverton semis with links – formally recognised with a plaque – given Lawson's association.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/waverton.jpg">
It has been listed for September 22 auction.
It's a small two-bedroom house in a row of cottages on Euroka Street.
It's where Lawson lived between 1914 and 1921.
Locals suggest he rode billycarts up and down the hillside cul-de-sac.
He also helped maintained a community vegetable patch in the garden of the house at 31 Euroka Street, which is for sale.
Set on a 177-square-metre block, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sydneyboutique.com.au/buying/NSW/North-Shore-Lower/Waverton/Terrace/1P1623">the cottage </a>is tipped to fetch $800,000 plus through Tom Scarpignato of Sydney Boutique Property.
Lawson spent his last days at Abbotsford in 1922.
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Henry Lawson's former Waverton abode listed

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The NSW government could tax investment property owners who will benefit from its newly unveiled 20-year transport upgrade.
The $100 billion, 20-year draft transport master plan includes new motorways, new rail links, an underground harbour rail crossing in Sydney, and other infrastructure, public transport  and service upgrades.
Among the locations with mooted transport infrastructure improvements are the eastern suburbs light rail, Leppington in the south-west growth centre with a new rail link, Parramatta with motorway upgrades, Rouse Hill in the north-west growth centre with a new rail link from Chatswood, Sydney CBD upgrades and Dee Why, with new bus rapid transport.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/transport.jpg" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/transportthumb.jpg"></a>
The report puts forward plans to partially fund the massive upgrade by levying property owners who might benefit from any upgrades.
“The development of new transport infrastructure positively influences the appeal of new neighbourhoods and communities as a result of improved transport access – regardless of whether property development takes place before or after the creation of the transport links,” the report says.
While no solid numbers are put forward, the report cites examples from other countries where transport upgrades have been financed by taxing land- owners.
“Many countries, such as Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan and the United States, have introduced measures to capture a share of the additional value to nearby properties, including developer contributions and targeted levies. We have reviewed such options and identified those with the greatest potential for application in NSW.”
The report cites Chicago’s tax increment financing (TIF) scheme as a possible model for financing the scheme.
Popular in the US, TIF schemes use projected future tax gains to subsidise infrastructure that when built will lead to those gains. The new infrastructure pushes up real estate prices around the area.
Chicago runs 130 TIF districts, which earned the city US$500 million in 2006.
It applies to both commercial and residential properties.
The report also references developer contributions in the UK where charges vary with the scale of a development.
Another option raised is transport levies such as those imposed in Sunshine Coast and in France. Residents of the Sunshine Coast paid an annual $20 fee per property to help pay for infrastructure upgrades.
The report also recommends commercial developments alongside public transport infrastructure to pay for the upgrades.
“The sale of these commercial rights, or the lease income over time, can help to reduce the cost of the transport asset.”
“Southern Cross Station in Melbourne is one such example, where a PPP [public-private partnership] project and the sale of the adjacent retail and office development sites partially offset the Victorian Government’s total project costs.”
Premier Barry O’Farrell and Transport Minister Gladys Berejiklian have not committed to any of the recommendations except the $8.5 billion north-west rail link in Sydney and the harbour crossing.
Other financing methods raised in the report include distance-based tolls for roads and congestion charges.
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NSW government could tax property owners set to gain from transport upgrades

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We’re all aware Melbourne is facing a shortage when it comes to affordable housing, especially if you have your heart set on buying within 20 kilometres of the CBD.  However, there are still some affordable hotspot suburbs that fall well below the average Melbourne median price and will make it easier to help secure your next property. From the outset, you need to know how much you can really afford to spend, as this will dictate the properties available to you.
At Advantage Property Consulting, we are regularly trying to locate hotspot suburbs and have assisted over 2,000 clients in achieving their dream of owning a property.
So what is a hotspot?
A hotspot can best be described as an area that has not attracted the same level of attention as traditional blue-chip locations. They are often identified as areas that are underperforming, usually within close proximity to more popular suburbs.  When an area becomes too expensive for people to afford, they usually move to these neighbouring suburbs that are more affordable, causing a positive outward ripple effect.
What are some important things to look for before buying into a hotspot area?
Pick a diamond in the rough Choose a well-positioned property that represents good buying value.  An unrenovated property can often be purchased under market value, offering the chance to improve and increase equity over time. If it is well supported by strong infrastructure and lifestyle amenities, then the chance of gaining a good investment return is higher.
Follow the ripple effect outward If you’ve been priced out of a more expensive inner-city suburb, look to its surrounding areas to try and pick up a bargain.
Choose an area with good quality stock/dwellings For example: buying a period-style apartment in a block of four versus buying an apartment in a high-rise precinct where you are the owner of one of 100 similar apartments. Period homes tend to fetch better prices and are in much higher demand than other property types.
Easy access to employment opportunities It is important to have easy access to a diverse range of employment opportunities near your property.  This will attract reliable tenants/investors to the area and offers better growth potential over the long term.
Look for areas with solid or expanding infrastructure Having good, reliable access to nearby arterial roads, highways and satellite cities will always add more value to a suburb.  Look out for planned developments in the area as well as new infrastructure improvements such as freeways, as this often indicates the area is on the up.
Don’t always go for the cheapest property Focus on what comparable properties are actually selling for in the area to figure out if a property is overpriced, has met the current market or is at under market value.
Focus on the property not the hotspot You are buying a property, not an entire suburb. The key is to identify potential for capital growth and rental returns. If it is well positioned, then the desirability factor increases.
Look for signs of the next “Williamstown or St Kilda” and trust your intuitio Look for a feeling or indicators that a suburb is on the move. Lifestyle features such as being close to the water, bars, restaurants and retail outlets will always add substantial money to your investment.  It is not unusual for unwanted locations to become hotspots over a 10- to 20-year period, so think long term.
With these key factors in mind, here are five potential “hotspots” in Melbourne worth taking a look at:
1. Thornbury
Thornbury has shown an impressive 21% growth per annum over the last 22 years.  Units and flats are still very affordable with an average median price of $432,000.  Located just seven kilometres north-east of the CBD, it has easy access to transport, an attractive lifestyle vibe and is very family friendly. The ripple effect from more expensive suburbs such as Northcote, Fitzroy and Carlton has caused Thornbury to become a more financially viable and affordable alternative. It has all the right features and qualities of a prime suburb, making this an ideal entry-level suburb for first-home buyers and investors.
2. Spotswood/Newport
Positioned just seven kilometres west of Melbourne’s CBD, both Spotswood and Newport have shown steady growth of 14% per annum growth over the last 22 years.  It is one of the few affordable inner-city suburbs left in Melbourne. Apartments and flats are still available well below the $535,000 median. It has very good transport connections to the CBD, with a new multi-line train station, nearby Westgate Freeway, Western Ring Road and City Link arterials. Neighbouring satellite city of Footscray is close by.  You can still find older-style cottages on good- sized blocks, proving popular with first-home buyers and investors.
The ripple effect from wealthier suburbs such as Williamstown and Yarraville has caused both Newport and Spotswood to become future hotspots.
3. Box Hill
The ripple effect from Camberwell and Surrey Hills has put Box Hill in a good affordability category. The median price for units and apartments is still relatively affordable at $467K.   Located 14km east of the CBD, it is a major commercial centre and transport hub.  It has excellent access to Maroondah Highway and is home to the local Box Hill Hospital.  In addition to all the wonderful amenities, it is also a growing satellite city with the local council introducing further relaxed planning controls to help promote and build medium density development.
4. South Yarra
The reason why we have chosen to include the inner “blue-chip” suburb of South Yarra is that prices have fallen considerably.  You can now buy one-bedroom apartments well under its median price of $620,000. This holds great appeal to those seeking an affordable entry in to a highly desirable location. Located just three kilometres south-east of the CBD, you can’t go wrong with the close proximity to trendy Chapel Street and Toorak Road.  Established infrastructure such as The Alfred Hospital and Swinburne University are also nearby.
5. Frankston
Located 41 kilometres south of the CBD, Frankston is slowly becoming a major commercial, retail, educational and transport centre. This satellite city will have the Peninsula Link opening in early 2013.  As a result, you will see travel time cut by up to 40 minutes between Carrum Downs and Safety Beach.  The median price for a home is super affordable at $350,000, and apartments can be purchased at less than  $270,000.  Close to the beach, the future development of a local marina will also add significant value to the area.  The ripple effect from neighbouring Mount Eliza and popular Mornington Peninsula suburbs (Portsea, Sorrento and Flinders) is offering potential buyers a much more affordable option.
In summary, you can still make money in a flat market.  Boom suburbs always happen for clear reasons, and picking one before it becomes popular, is one of the simplest and quickest ways to make money in real estate. In fact, if you remember the following winning formula –purchase at the right price, in the right place and at the right time, you will no doubt reap good financial rewards.
With this in mind, make sure you choose under-performing suburbs and stick to affordable areas under Melbourne’s median price.  Do your due diligence and research thoroughly before you buy.
What other strategies can you use to make money in the current flat property market?
Find distress sales Chase vendors who need to sell quickly due to divorce, finance issues and impending deadlines due to other purchases or commitments.
Buy wholesale, not retail For example: Buy a whole block of flats in a group syndicate and purchase in the $1 million to $6 million price range, as this will reduce your competition.
Add value with subdivisions Buy properties that need to be subdivided.  This will simultaneously increase the properties’ value instantly.
Add value with renovations Buy “ugly ducklings” that need internal and external renovations, as this will add instant value and equity.
 
Frank Valentic is managing director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.advantageproperty.com.au/">Advantage Property Consulting.</a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.advantageproperty.com.au/"> </a>
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