<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

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Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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The news that BHP Billiton received final approval (or you could say finally received approval, depending upon your point of view) to begin a $30 billion expansion of the Olympic Dam mine in South Australia is certainly welcome news. The environmental impact study on this project was begun in 2005, so this news has been a long time coming. Prices have been dormant since the market rose in 2006 on speculation of the mine going ahead.
In 2007 and 2008, house prices dropped and hit rock bottom and between then and now the market has been sluggish. With Gladstone as a precedent of what can happen to the property market when these huge projects are announced, I would expect higher levels of interest in the Whyalla and Port Augusta markets.
We brokered properties in Whyalla in 2008 at the bottom of the market; however the announcement had been delayed by 18 months. Few imagined that approval would be so long in coming, however investors who bought into the market at that time will, I believe, be able to recycle their equity and tighten their rents as a result of this latest news. Investors can't cash in now. I would wait another three years to see them maximise the best of a market that will heat up.
The Olympic Dam mine is the mothership of projects, so I expect the South Australia economy and workforce to reap the rewards. I think we will see a lot of interest in Whyalla by the middle of this year, with clients looking for capital gains as a spin off from the project. Vacancy rates will tighten up and the outlook is a lot brighter.
Investors should expect to buy into a soft market, and they need to be a little patient to get a growth result. The market offers plenty of housing solutions under $250,000. The market has been really soft with the average days on the market approximately 180 days, so investors will have a great offering of bargains.
The strategy for this market is definitely “buy well” and make your money buying. Get a discount off the asking price of up to 10% and wait for the growth.
The city of Whyalla and nearby Port Augusta will derive a great deal from this expansion. During the construction phase, 6,000 jobs will be created, and the mine will add another 4,000 jobs to its normal operations. Indirectly, the mine expansion will create 15,000 jobs, and the total number of jobs becoming available will total 25,000.
Whyalla is a city that has its urban planning already in place. It could fit twice the amount of people it currently has. Whyalla has been asleep for far too long, relaying mainly on its steel industry and port. It will act as a service centre, so all aspects and industry of the town will do well.
Even though Whyalla has other industries doing reasonably well right now, I believe this announcement will be of huge benefit. The town has been ready for 30 years for this to happen.
One would only have to look at higher house prices and associated wages in Port Lincoln, which relies on tuna fishing and export the tuna to the Japanese, to see what can happen to house prices when an industry actually works in the air peninsular. Port Lincoln house prices are about $40,000 more than current prices in Whyalla.
There is plenty of time for investors to jump into this market. The next nine months will be interesting to watch. I would monitor this market closely now and it will be pivotal to see the reaction of locals and interstate investors. Now the premier of South Australia has signed off on the deal, I believe it will be game on. Many are tipping it as the Gladstone of SA.
BHP’s planned $700 million desalination project to support the Olympic Dam project and the $600 million planned port expansion of nearby Port Bonython will just add to infrastructure that will boost the towns prospects.
Whyalla is emerging as the preferred location for many mining companies looking to tap into the resource-rich area, that includes rare earth oxides, phosphate, gypsum and uranium oxide. Additional factors culminating as growth drivers for Whyalla include access to key infrastructure such as a good road, rail and port facilities, access to a skilled workforce, proximity to seawater for a desalination plant, and the support of the South Australian government for many new miners and projects.
Sam Saggers is CEO of<a href="https://www.positiverealestate.com.au/ME2/Sites/Default.asp?SiteID=697F1E57F8A54C7F9582C3C49417EEC4" target="_blank"> Positive Real Estate.</a>
Photograph by Wayne Thomas, courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>.
 
 
 
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Want to capitalise on the mining boom? Consider Whyalla and South Australia’s Olympic Dam mine: Sam Saggers

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<img src="/images/stories/thomasst.jpg">
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Sky News reporter Michael Willesee jnr and his journalist wife, Allison Langdon, who works on Channel Nine's 60 Minutes, have bought in Bronte after selling their Randwick apartment. The couple, who married in 2008, spent $2.05 million on the renovated two-storey house (pictured above) that boasts three separate living areas. There are four large double bedrooms plus one guest bedroom and three bathrooms, a study and a sunroom. Its Laing and Simmons Double Bay selling agent Stephen Zoellner described it as a flawless family home with magnificent period features including ornate ceilings, timber floorboards and picture rails.
Their Randwick apartment was sold for more than $1.7 million. It was a 251-square-metre three-bedroom apartment with views to Coogee that cost $1.65 million soon after the building was completed five years ago.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/march22miller]}
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Respected art advisor Justin Miller – best known for his lengthy stint at Sotheby's – has sold his parkside Sydney city apartment (pictured above) pre-auction through Vicki Laing and Simon Polito at Laing Real Estate. It had been tipped to sell for about $3.3 million. The buyer only inspected the three-bedroom 30th-floor north-facing apartment in The Hyde on Wednesday, and the confidential paperwork got signed Thursday. Set in a residential tower standing opposite Hyde Park on Liverpool Street on the former Stockland office site, Miller had paid $2,949,000 off the plan from Stockland in late 2006. The 186-square-metre apartment has views of the city skyline, park and harbour. The apartment comes with two car spaces and a storeroom, which adds another 29 square metres to its title.
<img src="/images/stories/ashdon.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">The 1890 Ashdon Farm (pictured above and below), one of the most vibrant farming properties in the Macedon Ranges, has been sold for about $2.4 million by Bob Talbot, the past president of the Australian Wagyu Association. It was snapped up after being offered for the first time in 33 years, shortly after Talbot and another adman Graeme Samuelson formed Samuelson Talbot in 1978. The 75-hectare farm comes with a modest homestead sets in mature parklands overlooking a lake, which has had the unmistakable influences of designer Paul Bangay.
<img src="/images/stories/ashdon2.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;">
It seems the cattle were prized, as they have an architect-designed covered cattle yard. The farm was utilizing the very best Japanese full blood Wagyu genetics to produce big volume animals with the highest quality carcass qualifications for international markets. Tom May and Beverley Higgs at RT Edgar Real Estate Macedon Ranges aren’t saying who the buyer was, but Title Tattle gathers it was Mark and Melissa Duggan of Hawthorn.
 
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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/march15rathven]}
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Title Tattle normally leaves the political commentary to Laura Tingle at the AFR, but can't resist noting that Peter Garrett’s former Liberal opponent for the Kingsford Smith electorate, Michael Feneley, has bought back into the coastal Sydney electorate. But only by 250 metres from its border with the Wentworth electorate. Feneley, the director of cardiology and the Heart Lung Program at St Vincent's Hospital, got an 8% swing in the 2010 election and could be expected to seriously challenge if he runs next time. Seven years ago he and his wife, Marnie, built on a 247-square-metre Hewlett Street, Bronte property that sold earlier this month through McGrath agent Bethwyn Richards, who was apparently looking for $5 million plus.
The Feneleys are moving to St Marks Road, Randwick, where they bought Rathven from gastroenterologist Terry Bolin and his physio wife, Robin, for $6.3 million, a suburb record. The deal was negotiated through Bill Bridges of Ballard Property. Rathven, the rarely traded 1887 residence, is a six-bedroom, six-bathroom Italianate colonial villa that sits on a 2,117-square-metre block with an 18-metre pool, a spa and a tennis court. It was heritage listed in 1979 by then planning minister Paul Landa after 72 residential apartments were proposed for the site. It last traded, derelict, in 1982 for $410,000.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/march15elysian]}
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">House lots are being subdivided off MFS founder Michael King's former Gold Coast hinterland polo estate Elysian Fields (pictured above) with prices starting at $720,000. King, who is selling the estate on behalf of his financiers, has subdivided a 59-hectare holding into five lots. The lots are pitched at the equestrian community. The lots in Elysian Fields range in size from 3.1 hectares to 40 hectares and range in price from $720,000 to $850,000. Four of five lots have houses. Canungra Realty agent Lawrie Phillips says the size is right for “tree change'' buyers and will particularly appeal to horse owners. The land sale by King began more than three years ago. Proceeds of the sale will repay the property's mortgagee, with any surplus going to creditors of King's private companies. 
King secured a personal insolvency agreement with creditors – mainly margin lenders – in 2009 after the $2 billion collapse of MFS in 2008. Part of the agreement, which has about six months to run, required him to manage the sell-off of the Elysian Fields estate. The Gold Coast Bulletin reports that following the latest lots, Elysian Fields would have shrunk to about 40 hectares from its 187-hectare peak. The district’s big buyer in recent times is mining magnate Nathan Tinkler, who bought 57 hectares of Elysian Fields for $4.55 million in 2010. Over the past two years Phillips says Tinkler has helped put Canungra on the map among the equestrian community. Phillips describes Tinkler as “a bit of a Pied Piper'' for the Canungra region after investing more than $20 million on a series of acquisitions around Wadham Park, which has since been renamed Patinack Farm.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/march15stawell]}
T<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">he Kew house dubbed "The Stawell House" (pictured above) has been sold. The internationally celebrated house graces the cover of new coffee-table book Australia's Best Houses. It’s been bought by George Sykiotis, one of the restaurateurs behind Made Establisment, who have seven restaurants in Melbourne – The Press Club, Little Press and Cellar, Maha, Hellenic Republic, P M 24 and St Katherine’s, with the seventh venue, Mama Baba, having opened in January in South Yarra. The property has its own website, <a href="https://26stawell.com">https://26stawell.com</a>, created by its recent seller David O'Donnell, who works in IT although at one stage he gave up his day job to concentrate on an emerging sideline enterprise as a developer. More than $3 million was tipped for the Stawell Street house listed through Kay &amp; Burton agent Sam Wilkinson and Scott Patterson.
The Minimalist house covering three levels sits in a quiet nook off Studley Park Road. Likened by the architect, Michael O'Sullivan, who is part of the Vibe Design Group, to a 1960s-style stereo cabinet speaker, the house won an early prize following its completion in January 2011 when it was awarded as best residential design for a new house with over $1 million construction costs – and most innovative use of glass – in the Building Design Association of Victoria awards.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november14hawkins]}
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">The Coogee home (pictured above) of Jennifer Hawkins, the former Miss Universe, television personality and swimwear designer, and her fiance, Jake Wall, has now been listed with a $2.3 million asking price.  It was passed in at December auction on a $2.5 million vendor bid through McGrath agent Adrian Bo and then listed with a $2.6 million asking price. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/model-jennifer-hawkins-coogee-pad-finally-hits-the-market/2011111452342">The 2003-built Coogee property</a>, with three bedrooms and three bathrooms, cost Hawkins $2.27 million in late 2008. The main bedroom comes with ensuite, dressing room and terrace. One of its ultra-modern bathrooms has a Japanese agape spoon bath. Its third bedroom could be a home theatre or home office. There’s a private rooftop terrace with ocean views as well as a cellar – all a stroll to Gordon’s Bay and Coogee and minutes to shops, cafes and transport. Much of the house, including a feature wall of Florence Broadhurst-style wallpaper, pre-dates Hawkins’ 2008 purchase. The couple moved out of the Moore Street townhouse several months before the December auction in anticipation of construction of their northern beaches home  in the Windy Dropdown gated estate.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/march1nepean]}
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">And don't say Title Tattle told you, but it’s taken just a few days for the snappy sale of one of Portsea’s Easter auction listings. Dundonald, the five-bedroom, three-bathroom 1917 limestone residence opposite Fishermans Beach, has been sold. It’s been sold by the Boykett family within one week <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/portseas-limestone-charmer-dundonald-on-the-market-after-quiet-summer-selling-season/2012022953637" target="_blank">of its first-ever listing</a>. Set on 1,724 square metres of level lawns on the corner of Point Nepean Road and Relph Avenue, more than $2.75 million was being sought. James Buyer Advocates suggests it fetched about $3.2 million through Kay &amp; Burton Portsea agent Liz Jensen.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Michael Willesee jnr and Allison Langdon move to Bronte: Title Tattle

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Couples and families are increasingly upgrading in the eastern Melbourne municipality of Manningham, according to Jellis Craig.
Jellis Craig Doncaster director Andrew Keleher says open for inspections at houses favoured by this demographic have been very well attended, pointing towards a strong market in 2012.
“Going forward we have identified two particularly strong markets. Three- to four-bedroom houses in the range of $650,000 to $750,000, for young couples moving to the area,” Keleher says in Jellis Craig’s Annual Property Review.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/manninghamcomment1.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/manninghamcomment1thumb.jpg"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> Annual Property Review
“At a recent opening we saw 96 groups in just 30 minutes, the most intense traffic at a single viewing in two years.
“We have also found a very strong resurgence back to the acre homes through the Donvale and  Templestowe area. Many of these buyers are looking to relocate from the inner city and recognise the family lifestyle benefits of these areas, which offer great value without a big mortgage.”
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/manninghamcomment2.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/manninghamcomment2thumb.jpg"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> Annual Property Review
Keleher says prices dropped in Manningham in 2011, but he says this increased affordability and the area remains popular.
“Buyer sentiment in the Manningham market has remained particularly positive, buoyed by talk of a new rail link, great schools and very affordable housing.
“In 2011 we saw some decline in value, but this in turn generated a perception of affordability and introduced many new buyers to the area."
 
 
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Upgrader market set to be strong in Melbourne’s leafy north-eastern suburbs in 2012: Jellis Craig

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Art advisor Justin Miller – best known for his lengthy stint at Sotheby's – has listed his parkside Sydney city apartment for March 27 auction through Vicki Laing and Simon Polito at Laing Real Estate. It's tipped to sell for more than $3.3 million.
The three-bedroom 30th-floor north-facing apartment is in The Hyde, a residential tower standing opposite Hyde Park on Liverpool Street. It first traded for $2,949,000 when Miller bought off the plan from Stockland in late 2006. The 186-square-metre apartment has views of the city skyline, park and harbour.
The apartment comes with two car spaces and a storeroom, which adds another 29 square metres to its title.
 
 
 
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Art advisor Justin Miller lists 30th-floor Hyde apartment: Title Tattle

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Sydney Architect Lawrence Nield was honoured with the Australian Institute of Architects prestigious Gold Medal in Adelaide last night.
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" width="300" src="/images/stories/lawrenceneild.jpg">Neild (pictured left) – who was the head of master planning for the Sydney 2000 Olympics – has worked on projects in New Zealand, Greece, China, Vietnam, France, Italy and the UK.
He is well known for his design of sports centres, hospitals and educational buildings, his academic work at both the University of Sydney and the University of NSW as well as his broad writings on urban design.
His newest award will join a Sir Zelman Cowan Award for Public Buildings, which he won in 1997 for the University of the Sunshine Coast Library, a Sulman Award and an RIBA Award. Nield retired from Sydney firm BVN Architecture several years ago but is rarely far from the industry.
The AIA’s national presidential Brian Zulaikha says: “Lawrence’s local work uses a broad and principled approach to architecture that reveals an uncommon understanding of our history, the arts and other intellectual achievements”.
The AIA also awarded former Sydney lord mayor and long-time urban design activist Lucy Turnbull with the President’s Award for her contribution to the advancement of architecture.
<img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" width="300" src="/images/stories/lucyturnbull.jpg">
“It gives me much pride, both professionally and personally, to be able to recognise Lucy’s contribution to the Institute, but also to architecture and design more generally,” says Zulaikha.
Turnbull (pictured right) wrote the book Sydney - Biography of a City and in 2008 was Commissioner of the Australian Pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale. Among her many board positions, she is deputy chairwoman of the Committee for Sydney, was appointed to the Cities Expert Panel, and in January last year she was appointed officer of the Order of Australia.
The Best Emerging Architect Award was presented to Western’s Australia’s Kelly Rattigan, while Robert Adams from the City of Melbourne won the Leadership in Sustainability Award.
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andreadixon-oif3j7eKne

Lawrence Nield and Lucy Turnbull honoured at Australian Institute of Architects awards

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Offering camel rides along 20 kilometres of unspoiled beach and only seven kilometres from the Port Macquarie CBD, Lighthouse Beach is attracting sea-changers and investors from Sydney and other parts of New South Wales. It has also caught the eye of John McGrath as one of his 10 price growth regional hotspots. 
Location and demographics
 
Lighthouse Beach forms part of Lighthouse Beach-Greenmeadows, one of 14 small areas that comprise the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council area. 
While it is not a distinct suburb (all addresses in Port Macquarie share the post code 2444) it is understood by local real estate agents to be the region bounded by Lighthouse Drive, Matthew Flinders Drive, Ocean Drive and Pacific Drive. 
According to the 2006 census, Lighthouse Beach-Greenmeadows has a population of about 10,600 people, with 4,000 dwellings, of which 20% are rented. 
Key property data 
According to RP Data, Port Macquarie has a median house price of $400,000 with prices up 1.3% over the past year and a median unit price of $279,000 with prices flat during 2012. The median weekly house rent is $360 and $270 for units. 
Jeff Collyer from PRDnationwide Port Macquarie says Matthew Flinders Drive is the only street in Port Macquarie where you can buy a home directly across from the beach. 
He says house price along Matthew Flinders Drive range from $600,000 to $1 million. 
Top prices are paid for houses on Summit Road, which offers elevated spectacular views of the ocean. Collyer says prices range from $1.1 million to $1.2 million on Summit Road. 
According to Collyer, who has sold homes in the area for 13 years, house prices on Lighthouse Beach have risen gradually over the past few years, but outperformed an overall flat market in Port Macquarie. 
Collyer says there has been some investment interest from cashed-up buyers in Sydney while other buyers have come from Canberra, Orange and Tamworth, primarily to relocate permanently as sea-changers. 
Why buy here? 
Lighthouse Beach is one of 10 regional hotspots picked by McGrath Estate Agents boss John McGrath as a “best buy for future growth”. 
“Lighthouse Beach is one of the few areas in Port Macquarie that offers a beach view.  It has a great lifestyle with its café culture, beach and popular stair and cliff walks that are appealing to Sydneysiders who see good value, particularly in the premium sector,” he says. 
“Here you can find a new home with outstanding views for around the $1 million range.  Alternatively, classic older beachfront homes are relatively affordable in the $700,000 to $800,000 range, or with no view in the $400,000 range.” 
What the location has to offer:The chief drawcard for buying on Lighthouse Beach is the beach itself, which offers 20 kilometres of unspoilt sand as well as camel rides for the adventurous. 
Dog owners are also allowed to walk their dogs along parts of the beach.
Aside from the beach, Collyer says the area has two golf courses, a shopping mall, a Coles, a local tavern and local restaurants and shops. There’s also a primary school and three day care centres.
Andrew Meldrum from Laing + Simmons Port Macquarie, who besides selling homes in the area also lives near Lighthouse Beach says a local landmark is the Bitter Sweet Patisserie on Watonga Street run by local couple Lance and Georgia Dunn. Meldrum says Dunn is famous in the area for having been a chef to Nicole Kidman when she was filming the movie Australia.
According to Meldrum, the area appeals to young families with professional parents who both work. 
“It has a very good public primary school. A child that goes there would come from a relatively well-off family with combined income in excess of $100,000.”
 
Recent sales 
Earlier this month Meldrum sold <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-109561756" target="_blank">this three-bedroom house on Vendul Crescent</a>, one street up from Matthew Flinders Drive and 150 metres from the beach.
<img src="/images/stories/lighthouseb.jpg" width="470">
The property was bought by a Canberra couple before auction for $640,000, having previously sold for $585,000 in 2006.
Meldrum says anything close to the shops is in high demand.
“We are a little bit short of stock in $300,000 to $400,000 price range but having more success in properties prices above $600.000,” he says. 
In May last year, this three-bedroom house (below) sold through First National Real Estate Port Macquarie for $442,500. It previously sold for $425,000 in September 2009.
<img src="/images/stories/lighthouseb2.jpg" width="470">
Reasons to buy:
 
<ul>
<li>Sea view properties supported by good local cafes and shops</li>
<li>Three bedroom houses selling around the $600,000 mark</li>
<li>Camel rides and pets allowed on the beach 
</li>
</ul>
Reasons not to buy: 
<ul>
<li>No dramatic increase in prices over past few years</li>
</ul>
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Hotspot: Sea-changers shining a light on Lighthouse Beach, Port Macquarie

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Western Australian properties are lingering on the market despite deep discounts designed to entice buyers, according to SQM Research.
SQM Research has released a list of the top 10 most discounted properties in WA, and the property at number 10 on the list, 115 Plover Drive, Yangebup, is now offered with a 27% price reduction on its original $450 price hopes. 
In contrast, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/most-discounted-properties-in-victoria-all-in-melbourne-sqm/2012031353814">the most discounted property in Melbourne,</a> 1365 Ballan Road, Wyndham Vale, only has a 25% discount on its original $2.4 million price hopes.
SQM Research director Louis Christopher points out that the most discounted property in Western Australia, 290 Viveash Road, in the Perth suburb of Swan View, has been on the market for almost four years and has been unable to entice a buyer despite a 41% discount on its original $2,290,000 price hopes.
"The number one property on this list, which has been referred to many times in the past by SQM Research, has spent years on the market – sitting on a current tally of 1,376 days," Christopher notes.
"A quick scan of the Perth top 10 will reveal that the majority of the other homes are way up there as well, and this is definitely a factor in play when it comes to substantial house price discounting. Properties that are going stale – in other words, have been on the market for extended periods of time are commonly discounted as the vendors become increasingly eager to sell.
"This is often when potential buyers do have the opportunity to bag a possible bargain – given that there are no issues pertaining to the quality of the property, as the vendors may be willing to sell properties at a lower price than their market value in a bid to make a speedy sale," Christopher says.
However, Christopher says the Perth market could be bottoming out and heading into a recovery.
"Listings have actually been falling in Perth, and second to this, loan approvals have also been rising in recent months," Christopher says. "So it is quite possible that even right now as the market is weak, it may well also be bottoming out. In future, we expect that when we revisist the most discounted properties in the city of Perth, a number of the current homes may well have exited the list."
 
1
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2007193295">290 Viveash Road, Swan View, WA, 6056</a>
On the market since: June 5, 2008
Initial asking price: $2.29 million
Current asking price: $1.35 million
Reduction: 41%
Days on market: 1,376
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">2</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106211228" target="_blank">15 Gretel, Two Rocks, WA, 6037</a>
On the market since: December 26, 2009
Initial asking price: $1.1 million
Current asking price: $699,000
Reduction: 36%
Days on market: 756
 
3
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106289694">309 Scarborough Beach Road, Woodlands, WA, 6018</a>
On the market since: February 7, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.1 million
Current asking price: $750,000
Reduction: 32%
Days on market: 713
 
 
4
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;"></h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105695921">61 The Strand, Applecross, WA, 6153</a> (pictured)
On the market since: September 13, 2009
Initial asking price: $7.9 million
Current asking price: $5.45 million
Reduction: 31%
Days on market: 860
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">5</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D108335651" target="_blank">124/580 Hay Street, Perth, WA, 6000</a>
On the market since: October  23, 2011
Initial asking price: $1,385,000
Current asking price: $975,000
Reduction: 30%
Days on market: 90
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">6</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106243474">4/19 Broome Street, Cottesloe, WA, 6011</a>
On the market since: January 10, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.2 million
Current asking price: $850,000
Reduction: 29%
Days on market: 740
 
7
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106544887" target="_blank">1/43 Preston Point Road, East Fremantle, WA, 6158</a>
On the market since: May 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.1 million
Current asking price: $800,000
Reduction: 27%
Days on market: 608
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">8</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107455436">1806/96 Bow River Crescent, Burswood, WA, 6100</a>
On the market since: June 18, 2011
Initial asking price: $969,000
Current asking price: $705,000
Reduction: 27%
Days on market: 217
 
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<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">9</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008749778" target="_blank">227 Franklin Road, Wanneroo, WA, 6065</a>
On the market since: December 27, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.5 million
Current asking price: $1,095,000
Reduction: 27%
Days on market: 392
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">10</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D108521836" target="_blank">115 Plover Drive, Yangebup, WA, 6164</a>
On the market since: May 5, 2011
Initial asking price: $450,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 27%
Days on market: 77
 
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SQM Research also offers a list of the <a target="_blank" title="SQM Research" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia</a> for sale.
 
 
 
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Perth vendors offering deeper discounts than Melbourne but market could be bottoming out: SQM

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Boothville House, the stately six-bedroom mansion in the Brisbane suburb of Windsor, remains listed for sale. It has a $4.5 million asking price.
It was built in 1887 for the Queensland National Bank to provide residential accommodation for managers, starting with Henry Wallis Glenny. It took its name after its purchase by William Booth, the son of the founder of the Salvation Army, in 1923. It was The Salvation Army-run Boothville Maternity Hospital for 70 years before it was closed in 1994. Some 80,000 babies were born at Boothville.
It was the transformed into a large family home after its restoration by Carbone Developments, which built villas in its then extended grounds. It has sweeping views across Brisbane, plus glass chandeliers, bay windows, fireplaces and crafted timberwork, and its listing agent Gabrielle Trickey of Ray White Paddington says there’s been much buyer interest. Boothville boasts 29 rooms including six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, a gym and a home theatre.
It retains many historical features, from the servants’ bell in the formal dining area to the oxygen panel in the gym, formerly the hospital operating theatre. It was bought by Melita and Drew Mattsson for $2.05 million in 2004. It sold in 2008 for $3.65 million and again in late 2008 to the current vendor, Queensland gas mining magnate Richard Cottee and his wife, Shauna, who paid $4.1 million. The couple divide their time between the UK and a farm outside Lorne on Victoria’s surf coast, where Shauna raises llamas and sheep.
 
 
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Stately Brisbane mansion Boothville House, formerly Boothville Maternity Hospital, listed for sale

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Libbi Gorr, the former Melbourne comedian then television host, has returned to her hometown as an ABC radio broadcaster.
Her three-bedroom North Bondi house in Sydney’s east has been listed at $1,300 a week rental.
Gorr has returned to Melbourne with her partner, freelance film and television producer Stewart Burchmore, and their two children.
“I have to say, we were becoming deliciously shallow,” she told Melbourne Weekly. “We lived near the beach and that whole beautiful lifestyle, which I will miss terribly. But we realised we should come back to Melbourne to get some couture, get some mental culture.”
So when the opportunity came up to move south, Gorr grabbed the chance to host 774 ABC Melbourne’s new Sunday radio morning program. Gorr, who barracks for Collingwood, attended Methodist Ladies’ College in Kew before graduating in law from the University of Melbourne. Her big break came co-starring with Andrew Denton on the ABC’s sports comedy television program Live and Sweaty, where her satirical character Elle McFeast was born in 1991. She blogs on her website, libbigorr.com.au.
“I’d love to say I’ll be running around the Tan, but I think that’s beyond me. I might do the odd skip of joy, though. I’m looking forward to taking the children on Puffing Billy, again and again and again,” she told Melbourne Weekly.
Her Sydney house, available through Belinda Halliday at Ray White Unlimited North Bondi, cost $1,605,000 in 2007.
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Melbourne comedian Libbi Gorr returns home and rents out North Bondi: Title Tattle

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Take a look at this number: 500,000,000,000. What does it mean to you? 
It describes the dollar value of projects happening or soon to happen around Australia, most of them resources related. There’s $200 billion in gas projects alone, plus massive expansion of iron ore mines, coal mines, rail links and export port facilities. 
I ask because I believe few Australians truly get the enormity of what is happening in the resources sector. Even fewer understand what it means for Australia. 
I think that’s because the numbers which describe the action are so big as to be meaningless. They’re unprecedented. 
The waters are further muddied by economists babbling on about a two-speed economy, oblivious to the reality that only 20% of the expenditure has happened – which means the bulk of the big money is still to be spent.
What does $500 billion mean?
 To try to give it perspective, it’s the value of 1 million Perth houses, based on the current median price. 
It’s the combined market capitalisation of BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Chevron Corporation. 
It’s more than the GDP of New South Wales last financial year. 
Much of the activity described by this number is focused on Western Australia, the state that’s leading the nation in everything that matters: population growth, employment growth, economic activity, retail turnover – and soon, I believe, residential property activity. 
WA is the state of the big numbers. There’s $20 billion tied up in one port expansion project. 
There $100 billion in just three gas projects, headed by Gorgon, Australia’s biggest ever resources development. Projects like these will soon make Australia’s the world’s leading LNG producer, overtaking Qatar. 
A project isn’t newsworthy unless it’s at least a $1 billion. 
The state’s economic output is now about 30% above its 10-year average, according to CommSec. 
And it’s not just resources. Agriculture is thriving, helped by a record grain harvest, tourism is booming, boosted in a 57% annual rise in visitors from China, and over a quarter of all construction in Australia is happening in WA, according to Deloitte Access Economics. 
The state government is on target to record, god forbid, a budget surplus this financial year. 
While the numbers are mesmerising, it’s the economic impact that matters. 
Gina Rinehart, apparently the richest Australia, will need at least 10,000 workers for her $7 billion Roy Hill iron ore mine. 
BHP Billiton has lifted it’s first-half iron ore production 23%, while Rio Tinto is spending $20 billion to boost Pilbara production 60%, and Fortescue Metals is trying to triple iron ore production in the next 18 months. 
This will created demand for tens of thousands of workers. 
The companies receiving the big contracts are expanding personnel numbers – companies like Downer EDI which has recently won a $570 million contract to provide services to the $2.6 billion Karara magnetite project and $700 billion in contracts to providing rolling stock to BHP Billiton’s expansion of its Pilbara operations. 
Contracts like these are creating such prolific business expansion that Perth now has Australia’s strongest CBD office market. New space totaling 160,000 square metres will come on stream this year, but analysts say it won’t be nearly enough because most of that is already pre-committed. 
The hotel market is thriving, and demand for industrial space is the highest in the nation. 
Perth was identified in a recent global survey by Jones Lang LaSalle as one of the fastest-growing cities on the planet. 
And Perth is where residential property investors should focus their attention. The resources revolution will create pressure on markets throughout the state, but locations like Port Hedland (median house price above $1 million), Karratha, Newman and Broome are already prohibitively expensive. 
Perth not only offers greater affordability but it’s where the major companies are headquartered and taking on extra staff. And it’s where many of the mine workers are based (the number of FIFO workers moving through Perth Airport is already at record levels and set to go higher). 
One symptom of the impending property revival is strong sales at the prestige end of the market. An off-the-plan buyer recently paid $10.86 million for a city apartment, a record for Perth.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">followed on Twitter</a>.
Photograph courtesy of <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>.
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