<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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Crocodiles and snakes are not the only big things you’ll find in Darwin.
The Northern Territory’s capital city has also been delivering big returns for property investors, with Residex calculating that Darwin is the only capital city market to deliver average house and unit price growth in excess of 10% per annum over the last 10 years.
According to Residex’s July update, Darwin house prices have been rising by nearly 10.5% per annum since 2002 with a current median price of $519,000 while Darwin units have fared even better, up 10.8% per annum since 2002 to $408,000.
Recent houses to sell around the median value include this three-bedroom townhouse in Charlotte Street, Fannie Bay (pictured below), which sold for $555,000 in April through Karl Secondis from One Real Estate Darwin.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/charlotte.jpg">
It last sold for $260,000 in January 2004.
The property was listed with a rental guide of up to $550 per week, translating to an indicative yield of 5.15%.
A two-bedroom unit on Philip Street, also in Fannie Bay, sold for $445,000 in July through Mike Smith of Raine &amp; Horne Darwin, having last sold for $380,000 in October 2008.
It was listed at $464,000 in December last year.
Growth has slowed in the past year, with annual growth to July 2012 of 3.94% for Darwin houses and 4.27% for Darwin units.
Only Perth has come close to matching Darwin’s double-digit annual growth since 2002 rate, with 8.78% growth for houses (median price $476,000) and 9.49% for units (median price $430,500).
A lack of available rental accommodation has also pushed up Darwin rents, with weekly rentals for houses rising from $520 per week in July 2011 to $560 per week in July 2012, while unit rents have increased from $435 to $470 over the same time period.
The Real Estate Institute of the Northern Territory (REINT) reports that rents in inner-city Darwin have risen by 22% in the past year for three-bedroom units to $796 per week, while the median rent for a two-bedroom unit has risen by 13% to $504.  
REINT chief executive Quentin Killian warns that the Darwin property market is not keeping pace with rapid economic growth.
The Housing Industry Association expects the rental market to tighten, with only 1,270 new homes expected to be built in Darwin in 2012 below the 2,100 that it forecasts are needed to satisfy demand.
According to the latest July rental vacancy figures compiled by SQM Research, Darwin is showing signs of a “signals of a severe rental crisis” with a vacancy rate of just 0.4%, with just 94 properties available to rent, down from 105 properties in June and 261 a year ago.
RP Data figures for July show that Darwin has the highest gross rental yields for both capital city houses  (5.7%) and units (5.9%)
Colliers reported that 200 houses were sold in the June quarter in Darwin – a 35% increase on the previous quarter, with the most expensive home sold being a $2.25 million mansion on East Point Road, Fannie Bay.
Darwin photograph by Ken Hodge, courtesy of <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>.
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Darwin delivers investors double-digit house and unit price growth for past decade: Residex

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An 1874-built bluestone church in Collingwood is listed for sale by tender as part of a divine trend in Melbourne's property market.
The former St Saviour's Church of England is described by heritage documents as a bluestone Gothic Revival church. It was built adjacent to a school on the corner of Oxford and Mason streets in 1874 to 1875 and enlarged in 1879. Since 1958 the church has operated as the Holy Virgins Protection Russian Orthodox Church.
The church reportedly cost £3,000 to build and was made of locally sourced bluestone. It was consecrated in 1880.
The original clergyman was the 29-year-old Reverend Charles Yelland, a man keen to help the poor, though his efforts did sometimes extend too far and he got in trouble on at least one occasion for practising medicine unlicensed. His congregation consisted of small landlords and local traders.
It only operated as a mission church until 1891, when Yelland died from an abscess of the liver. With the 1892 collapse and liquidation of the Mercantile Bank the church lost most of its funds, but it did survive the period. In 1900 the church reopened after renovations.
Agent Charles Atkins of Hocking Stuart Carlton is marketing the church as a development opportunity. 
He is looking to sell the property for in excess of $2.5 million based on a price of $3,500 per square metre.
The church is currently owned by a consortium led by the Russian Orthodox Church.
"There's such a  scarcity of properties like this it may be a great opportunity for someone to occupy and convert into their own residence or even for a commercial space, either way," says Atkins.
"We're putting it out to both avenues, but I personally think it will be purchased by someone looking to occupy. There's so much scope and room to do something pretty special here. It really is stunning.
"Inquiries have been solid. We've already spoken to a couple of owner-occupiers and a few developers and also those in the commercial inudstry looking for a commercial space. It's a broad mix of buyers demonstrating interest in the property."
The church is is on 715 square metres of land with mixed-use zoning.
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Collingwood 1870s church listed as heavenly development opportunity

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An international design competition for the central precinct of Sydney’s massive 22 hectare Barangaroo urban renewal project will be launched this month.
The Barangaroo Delivery Authority (BDA) will seek proposals for the site, which sits between Lend Lease’s $6?billion Barangaroo South development and the new Headland Park.
The winner will provide a revised concept plan for the 5.2 hectare site.
The BDA said it expected to appoint a team in time to start work in early 2013.
The central precinct is expected to be dominated by cultural and civic facilities, with spaces for recreation, events and entertainment.
BDA chief executive John Tabart said the precinct would be a “stimulating new place with commercial and cultural development, creating spaces for living, work and leisure”.
“This is a rare opportunity for the future of Sydney. What is eventually designed at Barangaroo Central will shape how people experience Barangaroo in the future,” John Tabart said.
“On the western edge of Sydney’s CBD, Barangaroo is a 22 hectare former container port, being transformed into a vital new extension of the city, as a new global financial hub and the spectacular Headland Park,” he added.
“Playing a pivotal role between these two icons, is Barangaroo Central, planned to be a stimulating new place with commercial and cultural development, creating spaces for living work and leisure.
“We are looking for a world class team, with the skills and experience to collaborate with the Authority to provide master planning services that achieve the vision and objectives for Barangaroo Central,” he said.
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International design competition for Barangaroo cultural and civic precinct

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Off-the-plan sales for Mirvac’s $1.1 billion flagship residential development, Harold Park in the inner-Sydney suburb of Glebe, as well as its 42-storey Era tower in Chatswood helped Mirvac more than double its annual profit for the 2012 financial year.
Mirvac reported net profit of $416.1 million for the year to June 30, up from $182.6 million in the previous year, with the result boosted by the sale of its hotel management business, which added $21.4 to the bottom line.
Outgoing Mirvac managing director Nicholas Collishaw says  the profit growth came at a time when conditions in many parts of the property sector were not buoyant.
He said Mirvac had beaten its guidance despite a “tough year” and amid tough global conditions.
“The results demonstrate the business model is working,” said Collishaw today at the company's full results media briefing.
Outgoing Mirvac CFO Justin Mitchell said the group delivered returns within targeted objectives.
This included settling 1,807 residential lots and securing future income of $907 million, which exceeded previous guidance. About 88% of settlements were below $1 million.
Mirvac is targeting 1,800 lot sales in 2013 financial year, with another tough year expected for the residential sector. 
“New projects are being targeted at the right price points and right locations,” said Collishaw.
The top contributor to residential sales revenue came from the 42-level Era, with 98% of the 295 apartments sold, contributing nearly $290 million.
Mirvac reported that 190 or 64% of the 296 lots at the 10.6-hectare site at Harold Park have now been sold, contributing revenue of $262 million.
Collishaw called it Mirvac's most "significant" project" and said it was being developed on target.
Site works at Harold Park are expected to commence in August.
Mirvac’s <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/docklands-development-yarra-point-three-quarters-sold-as-mirvac-says-the-price-is-right/2011110252174" target="_blank">Yarra’s Edge river houses and Yarra Edge Towers</a> are more than 80% sold, with Collishaw saying the apartment project was the highest contributor to earnings. 
Mirvac has just under 30,000 lots in the residential development pipeline, with future projects include Clyde North in Melbourne’s south-east growth corridor, a 200-hectare site acquired in December 2011, which will have 2,100 lots on completion.
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Mirvac doubles profits, with strong contributions from Glebe's Harold Park

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FKP Property Group boss Peter Brown will step down as managing director by February continuing the exodus of veteran chief executives from Australia’s listed property sector companies.
Its adds to the departure of Stockland’s boss, Matthew Quinn, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/why-stockland-s-departing-ceo-matthew-quinn-is-leaving-on-a-win-despite-fallin-profits-bartholomeusz/2012080855926" target="_blank">who unexpectedly handed in his resignation last month</a>, and <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/mirvac-s-nick-collishaw-surprise-departure-that-hands-reins-to-susan-lloyd-hurwitz/2012081556038" target="_blank">the departure of Mirvac boss Nick Collishaw last week.</a>
Late last year<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/no-changing-course-for-dexus-as-darren-steinberg-readies-to-step-in/2011112852577" target="_blank"> Dexus chief executive Victor Hoog Antink led the charge</a> with his retirement.
Brown has been in charge at the FKP since 2002, having replaced the founding managing director Rod Forrester. 
His departure comes after Brown signed an open-ended contract in June last year.
At the time he indicated to the board that he did not intend to stay more than four years.
While a search is under way for Brown's replacement, chairman Seng Huang Lee will assume the position of executive chairman. Seng Huang Lee is the head of FKP’s largest shareholder, Mulpha.
The Malaysian conglomerate Mulpha owns 26% of FKP, a property developer and retirement village owner that has more than $4 billion worth of assets under management.
In 1999 Forrester headed one of Queensland's largest property developers, Forrester Kurts Properties, with total assets of more than $270 million and annual sales of more than $200 million.
The company announces its full year results on August 28.
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FKP's Peter Brown to step down as lightening strikes thrice in the property sector

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The struggling construction sector has claimed another victim with the collapse of D&amp;G Verticon Hoist &amp; Crane Hire.
The construction company has entered voluntary administration with 150 jobs in danger.
The collapse comes as the New South Wales government launches an<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/unpaid-sub-contractors-trigger-nsw-government-reform-inquiry-into-construction-industry-collapses/2012080955934" target="_blank"> inquiry into the rising number of collapses</a> occurring in the state's construction industry, following the administration of <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/construction-and-engineering/051159-bluestone-construction-goes-under-and-warns-subcontractors-are-just-playing-catch-up" target="_blank">Bluestone Construction</a> in August, Reed Constructions in June and Kell &amp; Rigby in February.
D&amp;G Verticon Hoist &amp; Crane Hire was started in West Australia in 1998 and expanded to Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria with the acquisition in 2009 of the crane and hoist division of Verticon.
D&amp;G Verticon's Sydney projects include North Shore Private Hospital, Sydney Adventist Hospital in Wahroonga and terminals at Sydney Airport.
D&amp;G Verticon's website describes it as "Australia's largest hoist and tower crane rental company". However, the construction company appears to have been affected by the struggling construction sector, with Martin Jones and Andrew Saker of Ferrier Hodgson appointed as administrators last week.
The first meeting of creditors will be held on August 22 in Perth.
Neither D&amp;G Verticon nor Ferrier Hodgson were available for comment prior to publication.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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WA crane hire company D&G Verticon Hoist & Crane Hire enters administration

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The founder of a New Zealand construction franchise has won a court case against a partner in his collapsed Australian company that  failed to pay the whole of the $3.75 million purchase price for the business.
The Queensland Supreme Court has awarded David Reid, who set up the franchise David Reid Homes with his father, more than $2.85 million against Russell Stephens and his luxury home company.
David Reid Homes earned its income from fees paid by franchisee builders. Founder David Reid and his wife held half-stakes in the master franchise business until they were approached by Stephens in 2007 about buying into the company.
Stephens had no background in building but had become a David Reid franchisee in Brisbane.
Stephens agreed to pay $3.75 million for a half-share in the master company but shortly after this purchase DRH Australia failed and Stephens lost virtually all his money.
Stephens tried to argue that he should not have to pay the outstanding money he owed because he was misled about the business and the franchise model used in the business wasn't viable.
The court did not accept this argument and Justice Jean Dalton found David Reid Homes Australia "failed and failed spectacularly in a fairly short time".
"However, there was no evidence placed before me as would allow me to even guess at the cause of that failure, much less any safe basis for me to assume that it was because of the existence of the four impecunious franchises, or information which would have come to light had enquiries been made following the disclosure of the existence of these four impecunious franchisees," Dalton said.
Stephen Giles, partner at Norton Rose, says the case provides some useful warnings to prospective franchisees.
"The real lesson is probably that if you make a poor business decision a court is not going to fix that for you," says Giles.
"Similarly in franchising, the regulatory framework is built not just on proper franchisor disclosure and behaviour, but effective franchisee due diligence. "
Dalton found that Stephens "made a deliberate choice not to investigate the businesses of the franchisees" during the due diligence process.
"Given the business model, as described above, and the short time for which the business conducted by David Reid Homes Australia had been operating, this was another remarkable omission," the judge found.
Giles says it is fundamental to speak to existing franchisees about the business before buying in.
"One of the most important things to do is speak with existing and past franchisees, a process facilitated by the Code requirement that includes contact details in the disclosure document," he says.
Giles says it is also important to be wary of businesses <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/franchise-tips-and-trends/beware-the-franchise-website-that-only-sells-franchises">that rely on sales of franchises for revenue</a>.
In this case the primary source of revenue for David Reid Homes Australia was sales of franchises.
"Although this model had been successful in New Zealand, so had been the underlying housing construction business," says Giles
"It appears Stephens paid scant regard to ensuring or investigating the success of the underlying Australian business, focusing perhaps instead on the lure of making money by selling franchises.
"That is fool's gold – the best franchise systems have strong underlying businesses, and simply use the franchise model as an operating format.
"A good franchise model will not cure defects in any underlying business."
David Reid Homes franchisees in New Zealand have suffered a string of recent failures as the construction sector has struggled.
The David Reid Homes franchise in Nelson went into liquidation in 2010, following the collapse of other franchisees in Wellington, Manawatu, Pukekohe and Marlborough.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_parent" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany.</a><a target="_parent" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php"> </a>
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Home building franchisor David Reid Homes awarded $2.85 million after legal fight with former master franchisee

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It says enter at own risk, but one brave buyer secured a derelict terrace in Sydney's Paddington after it was passed in at auction recently.
Agents had been seeking offers of more than $1.63 million for the Windsor Street property which had the sold sticker posted yesterday. It previously traded for $1.895 million in 2009.
“It passed in on a $1.5 million vendor bid. We had four registered bidders, but no one did anything on the day,” says <a href="https://bradfieldcleary.com.au/3176754/40-Windsor-Street-Paddington">BradfieldCleary</a> Double Bay agent Mark Daley.
"We’ve got an offer on it now. I’m confident it will move pretty quickly now. Especially with the price next door," he said shortly after the auction. 
The neighbouring terrace sold last November for $1,825,000, and Daley says it was in just slightly better condition and required a full renovation.
Though derelict, the recently sold terrace comes with approved plans for a Zoltan Kovacs Architects-designed three-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home.
Daley says after renovations the house would likely sell for more than $3 million.
The plans were approved in late 2010 and will lapse in late 2015.
Daley says it could cost anywhere from $500,000 to $1 million to realise the plans.
He says most interested parties were those looking to live in the house.
"We’re usually finding that people are buying them to live in because the builders want too much of a discount because they want to leave in a profit margin for when they sell it on."
The three bedroom home sits on 146 square metres.
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Unrenovated terrace takes Paddington prices backwards

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The Pomeroy, Potts Point, apartment of the slain Sydney racing identity Les Samba has been finally sold, some 14 months after its initial listing.
Listed for sale with $2.75 million initial hopes through Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay, the Macleay Street unit fetched $2.1 million.
Its most recent list price was $2,295,000.
It cost $1.7 million when bought off the plan by Samba Group Pty Ltd in 2003 from the Winten development group, with settlement in 2004.
The Pomeroy apartment came with extensive 54-sqare-metre terrace overlooking the Yellow House on Macleay Street but went without more than one forlorn potted planting during the eight-year ownership.
It's been bought by veterinarian Raoul Wanner and his wife, Ingrid.
Samba was shot dead as he tried to flee from a gunman police believe lured him to an ambush on a busy street in Melbourne's bayside suburb of Middle Park in February last year. His unsolved murder was the subject to a recent Four Corners program.
The Sydney-based Samba, a former horse trainer, was considered an expert judge of yearlings and was a big spender at sales around the country for many years.
He and his family owned several top racehorses and had success with the 2006 Victoria Derby runner-up Gorky Park. In 1969, Samba was the strapper for Rain Lover when it won the Melbourne Cup.
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Les Samba's Pomeroy Potts Point apartment sells

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High Plains Lodge in Dinner Plain has been sold for $1.11 million under the hammer.
There were four keen bidders who drove proceedings from an opening bid of $700,000 to $1.11 million.
Colliers International agents Hamish Burgess and Jeremy Gruzewski, in conjunction with John Castran of John H. Castran Real Estate, had the 185 Big Muster Drive, Dinner Plain property listed under instructions from HLB Mann Judd.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/highplains1.jpg">
“Following a recent price correction in alpine property, there is now lively interest from cash buyers looking for owner-operator and lifestyle opportunities,” Burgess says.
Gruzewski says the campaign generated more than 30 enquiries from across Victoria and interstate, with one would-be buyer bidding over the telephone from Perth.
“This sale represented a genuinely unique opportunity to acquire a substantial alpine freehold property at a very attractive price point,” Gruzewski says.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/highplains2.jpg">
The 18-room lodge near Mount Hotham comprises 18 ensuite rooms, along with a manger’s quarters, balcony areas, a licensed bar/restaurant, commercial kitchen and conference room.
The 1,375-square-metre lodge is a short distance from Mt Hotham by car or shuttle bus, and was about 10 minutes from Mt Hotham Airport (QantasLink).
Burgess says local and interstate owner-occupiers had shown keen interest in the property, which had been expected to attract bids in the vicinity of around $800,000 plus.
The property was being offered with vacant possession and as a going concern. The agents weren’t able to go into detail about the purchaser.
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