<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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With all the sales results now in, a three-level modern Strathfield residence topped the week's sales at $2,525,000, according to RP Data.
It has five huge bedrooms and two ensuites, and basement parking for eight cars. Set in one of the busiest auction suburbs of Sydney's inner west, it was third time lucky for the property that had previously failed to sell last September when listed with $2.75 million hopes and passed in at $2.73 million. It had also been listed without success in August 2010 when passed in at $2.72 million. It sold through Richard Matthews Real Estate. The 770 square metre block cost $655,000 in 2000.
The Strathfield sale pipped a Little Bay sale, which was the highest declared sale as at last Saturday night. All sales bar one in Queensland were in NSW.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/61-mintaro-avenue-strathfield-nsw-2135/myrp-490?propertyId=6489561">61 Mintaro Avenue, Strathfield, NSW, 2135</a>, five-bedroom house, sold on July 20 by Richard Matthews Real Estate for $2.525 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/10-murra-murra-place-little-bay-nsw-2036/myrp-490?propertyId=3810669">10 Murra Murra Place, Little Bay, NSW, 2036</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 21 by Mint 360 Property for $2.5 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/24-quarter-sessions-road-church-point-nsw-2105/myrp-490?propertyId=1856767">24 Quarter Sessions Road, Church Point, NSW, 2105</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 21 by Mcgrath Estate Agents for $2.3 million.
1B/8 St Mervyns Avenue, Point Piper, NSW, 2027, three-bedroom unit, sold at auction on July 17 by L J Levi Real Estate Agents for $1.94 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/3-ferdinand-street-birchgrove-nsw-2041/myrp-490?propertyId=1445065">3 Ferdinand Street, Birchgrove, NSW, 2041</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 21 by Wiseberry Burwood for $1.9 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/43-darling-street-balmain-east-nsw-2041/myrp-490?propertyId=1261513">43 Darling Street, Balmain East, NSW, 2041</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on July 20 by Cobden &amp; Hayson Balmain for $1.67 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/37-hopetoun-street-paddington-nsw-2021/myrp-490?propertyId=5268948">37 Hopetoun Street, Paddington, NSW, 2021</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on July 19 by Di Jones Real Estate for $1.64 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/18-salt-street-concord-nsw-2137/myrp-490?propertyId=1909392">18 Salt Street, Concord, NSW, 2137</a>, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 21 by Devine Re Concord for $1.625 million.
45 Wolger Road, Ryde, NSW, 2112, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on July 21 by Mcgrath Estate Agents for $1.6 million.
<a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/n/200-warriewood-street-chandler-qld-4155/myrp-490?propertyId=3831847">200 Warriewood Street, Chandler, QLD, 4155</a>, five-bedroom house, sold on July 17 by Re/Max Results Morningside for $1.53 million.
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Strathfield sneaks in to secure highest sale in the Top 10 RP Data weekly sales list

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The prospect of the mooted Australian housing bubble bursting is less likely than what it was five years ago, according to Glenn Stevens, governor of the Reserve Bank.
Speaking at a Sydney luncheon today, Stevens said that the housing market bubble, “if that's what it is, seems to be taking quite a long time to pop – if that's what it is going to do”.
“The ingredients we would look for as signalling an imminent crash seem, if anything, less in evidence now than five years ago.”
“Even if the pessimists turn out to be right on one or more counts," Stevens said, “it doesn't follow that we would be unable to cope”.
“Acting sensibly, with a long-term focus, has as good a chance as ever of seeing us through whatever comes our way.
“Most Australians I encounter who return from overseas remark how good it is to be living and working here. We are indeed ‘lucky’ in so many ways, relative economic stability being only one of them,” he said in as part of an a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2012/sp-gov-240712#f">ddress entitled “The Lucky Country” to The Anika Foundation Luncheon in Sydney today, supported by Australian Business Economists and Macquarie Bank</a>.
"We should never say a crash couldn't happen here, and the Reserve Bank continues to monitor property markets and the performance of mortgages quite closely, as we have for many years.
"But it has to be said that the housing market bubble, if that's what it is, seems to be taking quite a long time to pop – if that's what it is going to do.
"The ingredients we would look for as signalling an imminent crash seem, if anything, less in evidence now than five years ago." He envisaged that if dwelling prices in Australia did slump, then there would be obvious questions about how that dynamic could play out.
“In such circumstances people typically worry about two consequences. The first is a long period of very weak construction activity, usually because an excess of stock resulting from previous over-construction needs to be worked off.
“But we have already had a fairly protracted period of weak residential construction; it's hard to believe it will get much weaker, actually, at a national level. The second potential concern is the balance sheets of lenders.
“This scenario is among those routinely envisaged by APRA's stress tests over recent years. The results of such exercises always show that even with substantial falls in dwelling prices, much higher unemployment and associated higher levels of defaults, key financial institutions remain well and truly solvent
“Of course, it can be argued that the full extent of real-life stresses cannot be anticipated in such exercises. That's a reasonable point. But we actually had a real life stress event in 2008 and 2009. The financial system shows a few bruises from that period, but its fundamental stability was maintained."
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Fewer ingredients now for mooted Australian house bubble pop than five years ago: RBA's Glenn Stevens

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<img src="/images/stories/2012/carramar.gif" width="470" height="300" alt="carramar">
An offshore private investor has paid $22.75 million to acquire the Carramar Village Shopping Centre north of Perth sold by property developer Peet.
The sale of the neighbourhood shopping centre was negotiated by CBRE’s Andrew Woodley-Page and Peter Agostino with the sale price reflecting an initial yield of 8.06%.
The shopping centre is located on the corne of Joondalup Drive &amp; Cheriton Drive in Carramar, 27km north of Perth in the City of Wanneroo – one of Australia’s fastest growing municipalities.
Completed in 2009, Carramar Village comprises a gross lettable area of 5,429 square metres and parking for around 300 vehicles.
It was sold with a long term lease to Woolworths, expiring in 2024, and includes 14 specialty stores among them Bakers Delight, Priceline Pharmacy and Jetts Fitness.
It is located within Peet’s Carramar Golf Course Estate – a community of around 3,000 households that has been created over the past decade and is now almost completely sold out.
Overseas buyers have tended to focus on buying up Australian hotels and offices in CBD locations, but high yields are on offer for retail assets.
Last week, Darwin-based private investor Cenfurn Investments, associated with the Koch Family, paid $14 million to acquire The Zone Retail Centre and an adjoining retail development site in Darwin on a yield of around 11%.
The buyer of the Carramar centre was advised by Perth based property investment advisors, API Hughes.
API Hughes managing director Peter Hughes says Carramar Village presented itself as a sound investment opportunity for their client “as it has a strong trading Woolworths together with the right mix of convenience service orientated specialty tenant”.
“Retail centres are very much on our buying radar as higher yields and lower interest rates make this an ideal time for acquiring strong performing centres,” Hughes adds.
CBRE Perth managing director, Peter Agostino says the sale confirms there is strong investor appetite for retail property.
CBRE negotiated the sale of the WA centres Wanneroo Central and Stirling Central with further shopping centre transactions in the final stages of negotiation.
“We received strong interest in the campaign, particularly from local private investors and syndicators seeking a secure investment, with the centre’s attractive rent review structures providing assured income growth,” Agostino says.
In May <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/perron-group-to-acquire-half-stake-in-three-centro-centres-for-%24690-million-setting-post-gfc-commercial-retail-record/2012051754740">the privately owned Perron Group</a> agreed to pay a post-GFC record of $690.4 million to acquire a 50% share in a portfolio of three Centro flagship regional shopping centres.
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Overseas buyer pays $22.75 million for Peet's Perth neighbourhood shopping centre on yield of 8%

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/07/bathurstfarm]}

Historic Westham, the 1830 Bathurst district property meticulously restored by the well known pioneering environmentalist Ian Kiernan, has been listed for sale at $990,000.
Currently a farmstay accommodation property, the main four bedroom homestead sits on 2.43 hectares.
<a href="https://www.westhamfarmhouse.com.au/index">The property</a> also comes with other accomodation. Its barn is a modern two storey three bedroom house. The restored dairy accommodates a couple with modern kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.
Its joinery is a 12 bay facility.
“This is a truly unique opportunity to own a part of local history,” says the Raine &amp; Horne Bathurst agent Lynda Ireland.
The O'Connell Road property built for wheat farmer Thomas West is set between Bathurst and Oberon, an hour's drive west of the Blue Mountains.
Ian Kiernan, best known as the founder of Clean Up Australia, is a builder by trade.
Title Tattle knows Kiernan is very passionate about domestic colonial architecture, starting out with the derelict terraces of the inner Sydney suburb of Darlinghurst around 1971.
The former Australian of the Year bought the rundown property in 2004 and spent 14 months restoring it.
It earnt the award for best rural conservation project under $1 million at the recent 2006 Australia National Trust Heritage Awards.
Kiernan told hospitality industry writer Mark Chipperfield that at first sight in 2004 he doubted that the derelict old house, with its cob walls, deep verandas and tall chimneys, could be saved. 
"What I saw," he recalled, "was a wonderful colonial building that was close to collapse." 
But rather than demolish and rebuild (the sensible option), Kiernan and a team of artisan tradesman bolstered, patched and teased the old building back to life – adding a modern kitchen, bathroom and laundry facilities.
Title Tattle recalls that in 2006 Kiernan toyed with the notion of seeking investors to buy into the property offering a 50% stake through Meares &amp; Associates at $450,000 which did not eventuate to conclusion.
John West and his brother Thomas settled on the Macquarie Plains taking up a land grant, they called Westham and it remains as part of the Westham Farmhouse to this day. The house measured 30 feet by 15 feet, with 6 yellow box timbers, each one foot square, as framework for the earth walls facing North and South. Hardwood slab walls were built on the east and west facades. The West family proved to be successful grain growers and descendant Joseph West was described as “the most extensive wheat grower in the Bathurst district”.
 
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Historic Westham, Ian Kiernan's 1830 Bathurst district farmstay, listed

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<img alt="dixonflicker" src="/images/stories/2012/dixonflicker.jpg" height="225" width="400">
Yields ranging from 4.7% to 12.2% are being achieved on properties acquired to date by the US Masters Residential Property Fund, which has listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) last Friday.
The pioneering Australian fund – the first to invest directly in US residential property – is managed by financial planning firm Dixon Advisory.
It has steamed ahead with its New York metropolitan area property acquisitions since launching mid-last year, acquiring 167 properties to date with a total value of US$38.3 million.
It also has conditional acceptances on a further 114 properties worth a further US$29.5 million, which would take its total portfolio to 281 properties should all these conditional purchases proceed to settlement.
In addition, the fund is in a good position to add substantially to its portfolio with a net asset position of $95.6 million, no borrowings and $77 million in cash at its disposal.
Since launching, the fund has targeted residential property in the New York metropolitan area, with a specific focus on multi-family properties in Hudson County, New Jersey – a short commute from Manhattan across the Hudson River.
In its most recent update prior to its ASX listing issued on July 15, the fund said it acquired a further 21 properties in May at a cost of $7 million, including buying a number of subdivided brick terraces in downtown Jersey City – a departure from the more common purchases of wood-panel sub-divided houses.
The most expensive recent purchase was US$936,000 spent on a four-level, two-apartment block in downtown Jersey City, acquired on June 22 with a modest net annual yield of 4.7%.
In March, Dixon Advisory managing director, Alan Dixon told Property Observer that while the US market “remains hugely regional” with “significant differences in the performance of each region and the sub regions within them” the fund’s target areas “have now either reached neutral or are showing signs of recovery”.
“Buying is still very attractive, with most housing well below the replacement cost for the buildings, hence you are getting the land for free,” he says.
“There is still a significant shadow inventory in relation to housing heavily under water with the banks yet to act. We see this as a significant opportunity for the fund as we are the best placed investor in the Hudson County area to deal with a large number of home purchases in a short period.
“We think that housing in our target areas is likely to enter a very long, slow increase in value over coming years. This cycle is potentially poised to be very long compared to historical averages but there is significant room for capital gains and strong income returns given the very low starting level of valuations,” he said at the time.
At the same time as it listed on the ASX, the fund released annual results for the period from April 15 to December 31.
The results show earned rental income of $323,980 of an investment property portfolio worth $18.74 million.
The fund earned an after-tax profit for the eight and a half month period of $366,049.
The fund initially listed on the small-cap National Stock Exchange (NSX) on June 29 at a price of $1.60.
It closed unchanged at $1.57 yesterday on the ASX, giving it a market capitalisation of $161.7 million.
Since its IPO on the NSX the fund has raised $160 million from mainly small investors, including self managed super funds.
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Wide ranging residential yields in Dixon Advisory’s US housing fund as shares debut on ASX

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2012/07/43grimshawv2]}

Ashmead, the landmark six bedroom 1932 Greensborough home of the Cordner family for the past eight decades, has been listed for August 11 auction.
It’s the family whose name is synonymous with the Melbourne Football Club.
Pillars of the local community, the majestic English Revival manor house was built for Dr Edward Cordner and wife, Margaret, who raised their family of four boys at the 1834 square metre property.
Dr Cordner and all four sons, Don, Denis, Ted and John, played for the Melbourne Football Club in the 1940s, producing two captains voted in the Team of the Century and one Brownlow medallist.
From 1953, the eldest son Dr Ted Cordner and his wife Anne raised their family of six children there, one of whom became a third generation player for Melbourne. Ted died in 1996 and his widow, Elizabeth, (nee Baillieu) who was Australian director of the UNESCO-affiliated International Social Service, assisting migrants and refugees, died in 2009.
From its steep rooflines, rough sand-rendered outer walls, medieval doors and archways, tiled balcony, polished hardwood floors, handsome kauri pine staircase, open fire places and leadlight, its Jellis Craig Ivanhoe agent Liz Walker says <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/property/GREENSBOROUGH-43-Grimshaw-Street/4202037/">the home</a> presents true to the style and era.
“Authentic to the day it was built,” she says.
There’s a library/study in the former surgery. The Grimshaw Street grounds feature a tennis court, a separate cellar, wood shed and store rooms.
The home is heritage overlay protected along with its imposing cypress hedge.
Liz Walker is looking in the vicinity of $1 million.
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The Cordner clan list their 1932 Greensborough home after 80 seasons

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Supply and demand drives all markets, and this week's results shows what happens when a scarce piece of good real estate goes under the hammer.

The vendor of 3/20-28 Earl Street, Carlton North will be planning a little holiday after they looked on as their property exceeded their reserve by almost $100,000.

Five bidders knew that if they did not get their hands on this one-bedroom apartment in Melbourne’s inner north, they would be waiting a long time before they got another opportunity. A flurry of bids greeted the auctioneer after the property was announced on the market at $385,000, before it stopped at $467,000.

It was a completely different property but a similar story at 10 Koorinda Avenue, Kensington, with the vendor pocketing an extra two hundred grand above their pre-auction expectations.

In this case seven bidders viewed almost 600 square meters of land close to Sydney’s CBD as an opportunity too good to miss. The property sold for $1.63 million off the back of a $1.45 million reserve.

The property market is still relatively weak but these results illustrate that some property will always buck the trend.
If you are a home buyer or investor these are the properties you should aim to identify and add to your portfolio.

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Supply and demand drives all markets: Propertytycoon.com.au tippping results

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The realestate.com.au brand will be integrated into the mastheads and property sections of News Limited metropolitan, community and regional newspapers as part of a new cross-media marketing alliance between News Limited and the REA Group.
News Limited has a 61.6% shareholding in REA Group Limited.
The alliance will see property sections of 88 News Limited publications rebranded as “Realestate”.
The two publishers have also entered into a reciprocal content syndication agreement, commencing in August, bringing together the realestate.com.au and realcommercial.com.au websites and News Limited’s national and state news websites.
The 88 newspapers have a combined weekly circulation of 7.15 million.
There will also be “greater content synergies” between <a href="https://www.news.com.au/realestate">news.com.au/realestate</a> and realestate.com.au.
Realestate.com.au’s main rival, the Fairfax-owned Domain is used as the major branding across the property sections of all Fairfax newspapers. But Fairfax now has more than Domain amidst its property brands following <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/accc-approves-fairfax-weekly-review-deal/2012052454818">Fairfax Media’s 50% merger with Antony Catalano’s Metro Media Publishing business</a>, publisher of Melbourne real estate advertising glossy The Weekly Review.
The Weekly Review provides Fairfax with another avenue for especially for boutique property listings.
Its to replaced the Melbourne Weekly, which ran for nearly 20 years, with two titles - the Stonnington Review and Boroondara Review, going out to 750,000 homes in the expensive bayside suburbs of Melbourne.
As part of the REA Group-News Limited alliance a new digital and print advertising offer known as the 'Prestige Plus Package' has been introduced allowing estate agents to provide vendors with an advertising offer that includes a listing in the Sydney eastern suburbs Wentworth Courier as well as a listing on realestate.com.au.
Other markets are being assessed for suitability of similar offers.
The products comprising the Prestige Plus Package are still able to be purchased independently from each company should customers decide not to take advantage of the offer.
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News Limited papers to integrate print property sections with realestate.com.au brand

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A lack of leasing transparency in Victoria, WA and South Australia is hurting smaller retailers and discouraging international retailers from setting up in these states, according to leasing information provider Leasing Information Services (LIS).
Simon Fonteyn, director of LIS, says he is aware of at least one overseas retailer who is reconsidering entry into the Australian market due to a lack of information about leasing costs in these three states.
There is no requirement for leases to be registered in Victoria, WA or South Australia.
In NSW and Queensland retail leases must be registered with the Land Titles Office and then become a public document, which anyone can access to learn more about the market.
Fonteyn told the Australian Financial Review this lack of transparency “was creating a lost opportunity for these states” when it comes to attracting global retailers.
He says there evidence suggest that there leases are being mispriced in markets and particularly hurting smaller retailers who often ended up paying too much rent.
Smaller retailers, Fonteyn says, lack the informal networks needed to operate in states where data was not readily available.
The recent Productivity Commission inquiry into retailing found evidence that smaller retailers were paying higher rents in shopping malls compared to larger tenants.
In its submission to the inquiry, Westfield admitted that major tenants such as supermarkets and department stores had a strong negotiating position and pay lower rents per square metre than smaller retailers, but said they contributed more capital to the construction of the store, “take longer-term leases, up to 30 years in some cases, and take much larger stores”.
The government’s response to the Productivity Commission inquiry supported the states and territories examining whether to introduce a one-page summary of key lease terms and conditions to address the imbalance between landlords and retailers.
Russell Zimmerman, executive director of the Australian Retailers Association agreed with Fonteyn that retailers, who are unable to find out how much rent their competitors are paying were at a disadvantage when negotiating with landlords.
According to Zimmerman, NSW has the best model of lease registration but it could be more transparent by disclose incentives such as assistance with marketing and rent-free periods.
Western Australia is currently consulting with the industry on ways to improve access to retail lease information and is seeking submissions by July 25.
 However, there is resistance to the idea of lease registration in Victoria over concerns that it will cause delays and make leasing transactions more expensive.
South Australia has no plans to consider requiring lease registration.
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Lack of leasing transparency in Victoria, WA and SA hurting overseas investment and smaller retailers

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The prominent US real estate broker Ralph Roberts, named by Time magazine as the “best-selling realtor in America” in 1999, has filed for bankruptcy protection.
The personal and business Chapter 11 filings were made after a lawsuit filed against him last year by a group of investors, his bankruptcy lawyer told the local paper, The Macomb Daily.
“There were attempted settlements. They did not work out,” attorney Hannah McCollum said. Members of the group sued him in February 2011 to recover their investment in his real estate investments.
Documents filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Detroit show he has assets of $1.8 million and liabilities of $73.2 million. However, his attorney explained that $6.5 million listed next to each of the 11 people with the largest claims — including his mother — is the total amount the group claims it is owed.
“We think it’s much less than that,” McCollum said.
Roberts, of Clinton Township, sold his first home aged 18, some 37 years ago.
Selling 600 homes a year at a $US115,000 average price earned him Time magazine’s title of top realtor in the country in 1999.
He co-authored nine books on real estate sales and investing, including Walk Like a Giant, Sell Like a Madman, 1997, Flipping Houses for Dummies, 2006 and Foreclosure Investing for Dummies, 2007.
In 1999, when spruiked as the highest-selling realtor in America, Roberts spoke in Sydney at the Real '99 conference to advise local agents on the art of the deal.
He’d recently sold a house to Eminem, aka Marshall Mathers, the controversial rapper, who’d bought a $US450,000 Detroit residence.
Roberts estimated that probably 80% of agents, at any one time, are in a sales slump.
In 2004, a quote from the website of his former company, Ralph Roberts Real Estate, said, “Ralph Roberts is to residential real estate what Babe Ruth was to baseball; what Johnny Carson was to late night television; and what McDonald’s has been to the fast food industry — except Ralph is better.”
After running into some difficulties in 2007, Ralph Roberts Real Estate re-incorporated as Ralph Roberts Realty LLC with a business model attracting investors and flipping homes, with no lines of credit, charging a “finder’s fee” and then splitting the profits when homes were re-sold.
Then the toxic mortgage housing market crashed.
“He (was) building himself up from the bottom, in a market you can’t sell in. Investors immediately said he defaulted,” McCollum told The Macomb Daily. 
Roberts also lost it all in the sky-high interest rates in the late 1970s, when he lost his own Detroit house to foreclosure.
"But through lean years and good years I've tried to see troubles as opportunities, not just as problems,” he told his 1999 Australian audience.
Roberts presumably still sees himself as a master of transforming crises into opportunities.
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