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.

Joel Robinson

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

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

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>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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Actor David Schwimmer has joined at his Friends co-stars on the real estate merry-go-round, listing his nine-bedroom, six-bathroom Los Angeles home for US$10.7 million.
He bought the property in May 2001 for US$5.6 million, according to the<a target="_blank" href="https://realestalker.blogspot.com/"> Realestalker blog</a>. It includes a separate three-bedroom guest house, screening room, library and the obligatory pool. 
It is being marketed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.weahomes.com/1_1_propertyDetails.asp?RN=19&amp;PID=1176&amp;PS=20#MAP">Westside Estate Agency</a> agent Magali Bergher.
Schwimmer is the third Friends cast member to buy or list property in recent months, with Matthew Perry <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/international/friends-star-matthew-perry-lists-in-malibu/2011100551814">listing two</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/international/matthew-perry-lists-a-second-hollywood-home/2011101951995">Hollywood homes</a> and Courtney Cox <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/international/courtney-cox-buys-in-matthew-perry-s-former-building/2011110252177">buying a Beverly Hills condo.</a> We have also heard whispers that Jennifer Anniston is on the verge of buying a condo in New York, but they are as yet unconfirmed. We will keep a sharp eye out for Matt LeBlanc and Lisa Kudrow's real estate comings and goings.  
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David Schwimmer the latest Friends star on the move

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Deltroit Station at Wagga Wagga has been listed for sale.
It could fetch between $15 million and $18 million at its December 15 auction, according to Meares &amp; Associates listing agent Chris Meares.
It’s a 2,545-hectare property with high-performance perennial pastures, cropping areas on rich creek flats and sheep and cattle breeding farmland estimated to carry in excess of 30,000 dry sheep equivalent.
It’s set in Mundarlo, midway between Sydney (409 kilometres) and Melbourne (474 kilometres).
It comes with a 1903 Federation brick homestead designed by Sydney architect William Nixon, which was refurbished in 2000.
A stone-built, modernised four-bedroom Cobb &amp; Co. coaching inn, The Junction Hotel, dating from 1868 stands on Deltroit’s western boundary, along the Old Hume Highway, formerly the Port Phillip Road. Built by John Griffiths, a free settler from England who came to Australia in the Gold Rush, the hotel closed in 1916 and has been used as accommodation for Deltroit employees
Deltroit has been listed by Anthony Crichton-Brown, a former chairman of Lumley Insurance.
He also owns Tooronga in the Riverina and Humula Station near Yass.
The spring selling season started with the sale of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/billabong-station-passed-in-at-auction/2011101651946">Billabong Station, a 1,875-hectare Wagga Wagga district cropping and pastoral property</a>, at around $8.8 million.
It was sold by the Sydney lawyer and property group director David Baffsky after 31 years as the family's farming enterprise.
There were seven registered bidders at the auction through Meares and Associates in conjunction with Bill Schulz at Landmark Harcourts Wagga Wagga.
Billabong is rated at 25,000 dry sheep equivalents, with up to 1,417 hectare sown to cash and fodder crops each year.
“Deltroit Station has always been regarded as one of the finest properties in eastern Australia,” Chris Meares says.
It was established in the 1860s when settled by free English migrant William Richardson, originally part of the famous run of nearby Yabtree.
Three generations of the Richardson family developed Deltroit over 100 years, creating a commercial Shorthorn herd and fine wool Merino flock.
In 1963 Robert Kleberg, president of US company King Ranch, who had long coveted the Deltroit Shorthorn that had won worldwide acclaim, purchased Deltroit and its entire herd for internationally renowned King Ranch Group.
With the death of Kleberg, King Ranch sold all its Australian properties, including Deltroit, in the late 1970s.
It was listed in early 1977 by King Ranch with a $1,185,000 asking price, but didn’t sell. Later in 1977 at an auction at Romano’s Hotel at Wagga Wagga, the buyers were offered extended settlement terms with the balance over four years with interest at 9.5%.
The listing agents were Pitt, Son &amp; Badgery in conjunction with Griffiths, King &amp; Rice of Melbourne. It was quickly relisted in 1978 by Ron Finemore and Kevin McMahon, this time with the auction at Wagga’s Commercial Club, when it sold at $890,000 to Tom Barr-Smith, reflecting $372 a hectare.
The property last traded in 1990. The property has a significant coverage of shade timber, including yellow and white box, kurrajong and wattle. About 130,000 natives have been planted and established since 1992.
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Prized Wagga Wagga Deltroit Station hoped to round off spring selling season, bookending with Billabong sale

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Dunmore Station, a 3,800-hectare rural property at Manilla in north-west NSW with a six-bedroom 1902 Federation era homestead, is going to auction on December 16.
<img src="/images/stories/dunmore2.jpg"> 
Its been listed with $5 million plus hopes by the Breckwoldt family, who bought it from the Stokes family. It was 1990 when Harry M. Miller and his ex-wife, Wendy, sold the farm. Miller, a theatrical entrepreneur, bought the Manilla property in the 1970s and with the purchase of pedigree German Simmental cattle from New Zealand made Dunmore the largest producer of the breed in Australia.
Situated at Halls Creek, 70 kilometres from Tamworth, Dunmore has five kilometres of river frontage on the Namoi, with a carrying capacity of 18,000 dry-sheep equivalent, which has been steady for decades.
<img src="/images/stories/dunmore3.jpg">
It’s capable of being developed into a well-diversified and productive property. It has cropping land, irrigation and a range of grazing lands running from valley floors, to steeper hill country. It comprises about one-third cropping country, one-third valley country and one-third hill grazing.
“Over $1 million spent on infrastructure since 2004,” the marketing brochure says, mainly in irrigation and water reticulation plus fencing.
Dunmore is being marketed through Landmark Harcourts agents Charlie Hart and Ken Tydd.
It is first to be offered as a whole, and if not sold it will be offered as three blocks: Dunmore, Suttors and Horsely.
The property was established in 1902 by Mungo Park, with Miller only the second of the families to have lived and worked it. Miller unsuccessfully tried in the late 1980s to sell it with a <a href="https://www.livestocksale.com.au/livestock-sale-articles/1989/3/21/harry-miller-property-for-sale-with-leaseback/%20leaseback">leaseback</a>.
According to the current listings agents its current operation has “an excellent cash flow business that is now well-established with a continuing high profile client.” It says this “business began last July on a trial basis and Dunmore has now been incorporated fully into a large-scale backgrounding program and shares an excellent relationship with its strategic business alliance”.
Under the program up to 1,860 cattle are fattened at average rates of up to 1.5 kilograms per day during spring and summer on pasture and lick alone with similar dryland crop-assisted gains during winter.
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Dunmore Station in Manilla, NSW on the market

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The strength of Australia’s property market relative to the US has been revealed in new statistics that show that it will take more than 50 years to sell all the foreclosed and delinquent homes in the states of New York and New Jersey at the current rate of foreclosure sales.
The pipeline of foreclosed properties for sale in New York is particularly lengthy due to the introduction of new state foreclosure rules in October that require lawyers bringing claims to file an affirmation that they themselves have taken reasonable steps to verify the accuracy of documents filed in support of residential foreclosures.
Since introduction of the new laws, New York foreclosure filings have slid to about 750 a month from around 3,500 per month prior to their introduction, USA Today reported.
57 years
The number of years it will take to sell all New York foreclosed homes
52 years
The number of years it will take to sell all New Jersey foreclosed homes
21 years
The number of years it will take to sell all Maryland foreclosed homes
20 years
The number of years it will take to sell all Connecticut foreclosed homes
18 years
The number of years it will take to sell all Vermont foreclosed homes
16 years
The number of years it will take to sell all Maine foreclosed homes
10 years
The number of years it will take to sell all Illinois foreclosed homes
3 years
The number of years it will take to sell all foreclosed homes in California, Nevada and Arizona.
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It will take more than 50 years to sell all of New York's foreclosed homes

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<div>- Afghan property dealer Haji Baqi, who <a href="https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-15334158" target="_blank">says he has lost nearly $300,000 (£191,500) in the past four weeks</a> due to suicide attacks in the Afghan capital.</div>
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Quote of the week: Hard to be an Afghan property developer

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<img src="/images/stories/elfrida.jpg">
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Channel 7 Sunrise sports presenter Mark Beretta has listed his Mosman house (pictured above), presumably upgrading in the neighbourhood. He’s previously been effusive in his praise for the Sydney suburb, saying it was a really nice quiet area that was safe and secure. Beretta, who comes from a family of plumbers, and his wife, Rachel, have been at the property since 2005 when they paid $1.47 million. More than $2 million is being sought through Piers van Hamburg at McGrath Estate Agents. It’s a charming single-storey house on a 610-square-metre block. The talk is they have spent about $2.8 million quite close by. Of course they join the contagion at Channel 7, where many on-air presenters are on the move.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/larry-edmur-says-good-morning-to-breathtaking-cliff-top-property/2011090251402"> Larry Emdur</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/title-tattle-chance-to-buy-one-of-the-100-best-homes-in-the-world/2011090251403">Tony Squires</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/title-tattle-whispers-that-coal-miners-boring-into-nicole-kidman-s-nsw-rural-neighbourhood/2011102052022">Kylie Gillies</a> have been recent players in the market, and Simon Reeve had a shot last year in Coogee but Title Tattle doesn't recall it selling.
<img src="/images/stories/billilia.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Billilla, the 20-room Brighton mansion, (pictured above) is up for lease. The Halifax Street signature property has been owned by the Bayside City Council since 1973. It dates back to as early as 1872 when the site was first acquired by Sir Thomas Bent. Its wealthy ownerships included members of the Chirnside and Weatherly families.
Over recent times it been an art gallery and as a wedding venue given its magnificent gardens. In 2005 Xavier College entered into a 15-year lease of the property at a current annual rental of $70,000 plus GST and outgoings. Xavier has used Billilla until recently for its drama and arts streams but these activities have recently been consolidated to the school’s Kostka Hall Campus nearby in South Road.
Xavier has now appointed agents O’Callaghan Commercial in conjunction with Davie and Bancroft to seek a new tenancy for its remaining nine years to run. O'Callaghan Commercial agent David O’Callaghan and James Davie from Davie and Bancroft will take offers until December 12.
“But I want to make it clear that the Bayside Council as the owner of Billilla will seek out a low-impact future tenancy for approval that will respect the rich historic character of this impressive landmark building and use of its gardens as well being compatible with the adjoining residential precinct. “It will make the ultimate decision in the best interests of Billilla,” O’Callaghan says.
 
 
<img src="/images/stories/cowles.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Veteran broadcaster Tony Pilkington, who was inducted into the Commercial Radio Hall of Fame recently, has sold his Mosman home (pictured above) for $1,201,000. Pilkington bought the Cowles Road house for $1.3 million a year ago but is moving back to Adelaide to be with family. It sold through McGrath Neutral Bay/Mosman with a price guide of more than $1.2 million.
<img src="/images/stories/musgrave.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Having last sold unrenovated for $4 million in 2008, Allowah, the 1881 Mosman sandstone mansion, has been listed for sale by the Robinson family. It sits on 1,200 square metres close to Curraghbeena Point. When last traded it was divided into five flats. Its LJ Hooker Mosman listing agent Geoff Smith says there’s been a meticulous reinvention of one of Mosman Bay's earliest homes. “It has created a truly exceptional family retreat with views over the tranquil harbour to the city skyline,” Smith says. Restored and recreated, the five-bedroom, five-bathroom house sits in Paul Bangay-designed gardens.
<img src="/images/stories/windmere.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Windermere (pictured above), the sandstone Hunters Hill riverfront house on 3,000 square metres that was constructed in 1857 by early entrepreneur Jules Joubert, has been bought for $10.5 million by Lorraine Tarabay. It was sold on extended settlement terms by Warren and Catherine Fraser of Fraser's Motorcycles, who are off to The Residence on the edge of Hyde Park. Their apartment in the Residence on College Street cost about $6 million plus through CBRE agents Caroline Fagerlund and Ben Stewart. Windermere had been listed initially in March last year with $12 million-plus expectations through Bill Malouf of LJ Hooker Double Bay. The fine furniture maker Andrew Lenehan, who arrived from Ireland in the 1830s, was its second owner, buying it in 1867 for £900 after Joubert was briefly declared insolvent in 1866. It was later the home of architect Donald Crone, whose widow, Annelies Crone-Arbenz, sold it after 37 years of ownership for $4.4 million in 1998 to the Fraser family. A renovation in 2004 included a 460-square-metre wing designed by architect John Rose of Tanner and Associates. It was acclaimed as the best house for 2004 at the NSW HIA Housing Awards.
<img src="/images/stories/louisa.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">The Anchorage (pictured above), the imposing classic Italianate terrace Louisa Road Birchgrove house, remains listed for sale with $4.4 million hopes by the Lee family. It last sold in 1999 when offloaded for $1.72 million by entertainer Glenn Shorrock, the Little River Band former lead singer and his wife, Jo. The three-storey Victorian home was built in 1896 and renovated most recently in 2001.  They had lived in the restored house for about 17 years, about the same time he initially quit fronting the Little River Band in 1982. The four-bedroom waterfront, which features a rooftop widows walk, sits on a  409-square-metre block. It’s listed through Kate Lorden and Mark Bowis at Sarah Lorden Real Estate. The pricey strip’s most recent sale was when the Dusseldorp family sold through Danny Cobden at Cobden and Hayson. It had been listed recently at $4.85 million having been initially been listed in 2008 at $5.85 million through McGrath Estate Agents.
<img src="/images/stories/kinka.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">There were red faces at Domain this week, when the Fairfax-owned website had the grand Terrey Hills house now dubbed Symingtonia – which was the setting of The Biggest Loser series – as its featured home listed for sale at $11 million. Oops, they meant listed for rent at $11,000 a fortnight. It all came down to a simple misunderstanding between $11m and $11k. The house (pictured above) ranked as the highest recorded house price in Terrey Hills when $6.25 million was paid in 2005 by the company director Howard Symington. The Kinka Road property, once known as The White House given its four-column portico facade, was built by software developers Michael and Mani Martin on its 1.7 hectare site. The house has five bedrooms, guest quarters, indoor pool, elevator, 10 bathrooms and tennis and basketball court all monitored by 12 security cameras. It’s been listed for rent at around $6,000 a week through Nathan Mainhoff and Joanne Hagen from Crane Property. It was the home in the headlines recently when rented by radio broadcaster Kyle Sandilands. The sometime novated car leasing company director Symington now runs a pinball and amusement game leasing business.
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Title Tattle aims to tell you as soon as it happens – if not before – but some deals are tricky to track down. Especially the suggestion that after pocketing millions earlier this year from the sale of his Allied Medical Group, former GP Geoffrey Edelsten has forked out "millions" to buy a Dominican Republic resort and casino.  Edelsten and second wife Brynne reputedly exchanged contracts on the Playa Chiquita Resort and Casino, a small resort in the Caribbean, last month. Title Tattle seems to recall it being listed for a reputed $US400,000 some years ago.
Playa Chiquita (meaning small beach) is on the coast of Sosua and is one of two casinos in the region, although the Dominican Republic itself is a gaming sanctuary. Sounds suitably glamourous, but Title Tattle's Caribbean contact says its not and the Edelstens have yet to make a mark on the locals has they have in Melbourne.  "Yes, the hotel was sold, but I don't really know who bought it," says Alex Hernandez, the  broker/owner at Rabbit International Real Estate D.R. "The hotel doesn't work at all, so the new owner will have remodel at all, as it is completly destroyed."
"It will take the couple six months or a year to remodel the property and spend millions of dollars," he added. When Title Tattle rang the casino's number, it was the building crew who answered, so works of some sort are underway.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">And don't say that Title Tattle told you, but the Murdoch family are obviously a little apprehensive even in Sydney. Lachlan Murdoch has finally lodged plans for his Bellevue Hill mansion redevelopment at  Le Manoir. Title Tattle notices it includes "construction of a new garage with security access areas with subterranean access to the dwelling". It must be a $10 million spend, although it's not immediately apparent. Of course James Packer's doing his Batcave-style security fortress set-up too out at Vaucluse, and that building contract could be four times dearer.
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Another Sunrise presenter on the move, as Channel 7 stars spend up on new homes: Title Tattle

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november11linfield]}
A funky East Lindfield 1950s timber-and-sandstone house was snapped up at auction last weekend at $1.38 million.
“It was a fine example of 1950s modernist architecture,” its Richardson &amp; Wrench selling agent Richard Patterson told the would-be buyers.
And there were five registered bidders, of whom three keenly pushed the sale price to $180,000 above its reserve.
Sitting in the highly sought-after East Lindfield area, this type of property is tightly held and rarely available. It last sold at $371,000 in 1992, also through Richardson &amp; Wrench. The home reminded some of a glamorous Peter Sellers set just needing the addition of a wet-edge pool.
<img src="/images/stories/annalinfield1.jpg">
Domain property editor Anna Anderson (pictured above) dressed appropriately to do her piece to camera when reviewing the property.
Everyone was thrilled an architect bought the property that loves the 1950s bones but will extend while keeping the flavour of the period.
With views across Garigal National park, the house has level indoor/outdoor space looking out the water view. Its features internal sandstone walls, floor-to-ceiling glass, along with slate and timber flooring.
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Funky '50s East Lindfield pad sells for well above its reserve

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Innisfallen Castle, the Castle Cove trophy home, has been listed for sale. It’s billed as an irreplaceable piece of history, ranking among Sydney and Australia’s most romantic residential castellated mansions.
<img src="/images/stories/innisfallen1.jpg">
The turreted Innisfallen, last sold in 1988 for $5.25 million, was only built in 1903 on the Castle Cove waterfront.
It’s been listed by Peter Montgomery, who also owns Fernleigh Castle in Rose Bay.
The landmark Gothic sandstone castle occupies 8,353 square metres of waterfront reserve land overlooking Middle Harbour.
It’s only had the two owners since it was held by the Willis family since construction until 1988.
It’s been listed with Ken Jacobs of Christies International with approved architects plans for substantial transformation of both the house and grounds.
<img src="/images/stories/innisfallen2.jpg">
An adjoining 1,289-square-metre property could also be incorporated into the sale if desired.
In 1987 the Minister for Environment and Planning, Bob Carr, ensured that no development would be allowed in the grounds.
After extensive lobbying from the state MP for Willoughby Peter Collins, plans to convert the 80-year-old castle into two units and build 12 townhouses in the grounds were deemed "excess”.
<img src="/images/stories/innisfallen3.jpg" style="margin: 5px;">
Innisfallen Castle was built for Henry Hastings Willis, who served in the first three Federal Parliaments. The castle was originally set on 21 hectares of land after being built with sandstone quarried on the estate. Interior decorations include plaster rosettes and leadlights depicting native flora. Its exterior architectural style is described as Federation with castellated Tudor.
In 1966 most of the land was sold off for a housing estate. The castle is classified by the National Trust, and in 1983 the Heritage Council placed an interim preservation order on the castle estate.
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Innisfallen in Castle Cove looking for new buyer to make a castle his home

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
The recently published Foreign Ownership of Primary Production Land in NSW by PRDnationwide is a unique study that identifies major foreign companies and individuals who own large tracts of land in NSW. Overall, 464,957 hectares of land were identified as having some form of foreign ownership, which raised questions about the true extent of foreign owned primary production land in NSW and indeed Australia. The report provides an overview of countries that invest in NSW, and identifies Korea as one of the dominant investors in both agriculture and mining.
It also highlights the Chinese ownership of prime agricultural land in the Gunnedah Region that has received media attention in recent months. Much of the criticism from the public, the media and several politicians is that national interests, i.e. control over food and mining resources, are being eroded, and foreigners without loyalty to Australia could use this control to expatriate our natural resources.  This highlights the fear that we as humans have of the unknown. The absence of a foreign ownership registry allows commentators to take advantage of this void to portray the situation as a total takeover of the country by foreigners.
According to the latest data by the ABS, as at December 31, 2010, total agricultural land in Australia totalled 398 million hectares. Of this total, 353 million hectares, or 89% of agricultural land were entirely Australian owned, while 45 million hectares had some level of foreign ownership. In NSW, the total estimated foreign ownership of land equalled 1,535,366 hectares, representing 2.73% of the total agricultural land in the state.
Under current legislation much of the control over the produce from the land is at the discretion of the producer, who is able to ship it out of the country. Furthermore, ABS figures show that the size of land used for farming in Australia has been diminishing over the years, further strengthening the assertion that agricultural land is a scarce resource that must be guarded.   Additionally, recent actions by mining companies prove that there are few barriers to prevent primary production land being turned into a mining operation.
The positive side of foreign ownership is its contribution to the Australian agricultural sector. In addition to agents’ commissions and the creation of jobs, the investment also allows for the injection of capital into unviable or borderline farming operations. Moreover, there are a number of transactional contributions to the state coffers. Our investigation into the dynamics of foreign ownership revealed that in many cases, the foreign company is not interested in the long term ownership of the land, and will subsequently offload their agricultural portfolio if favour of other assets in Australia or overseas. One example is John Swire and Sons, who have been selling off their Australian mixed farming portfolio over the past 12 months, with the purchasers often being Australian farmers. Another illustration is the purchase of AWB by the Canadian company Agrium Inc., which later on sold it (albeit to the American company Cargill Inc.).
In our view, control over the foreign ownership of land can only be attained by a clear identification of the extent of ownership and use of the land. One way to do this is through the establishment of a foreign owners’ registry. Once this has been done, legislators will be able to identify trends in the use of land, and establish a set of criteria to limit any actions that could be adversarial to the long term interests of Australia.
The ownership of land is likely to remain in the news for the near term, with mining and agricultural companies intensifying their operations around the country. However, the ability of government to track these transactions and have better understanding of the extent of foreign-owned land will depend on the effectiveness of systems set up to track the ownership, and the subsequent legislation to control the expatriation of minerals and food products.
Oded Reuveni Etzioni is a research analyst at <a href="https://www.prdnationwide.com.au/site/page.cfm" target="_blank">PRDnationwide</a>. 
Photograph by Mick Stanic
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A land registry is the way forward in the foreign ownership debate

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The LJ Hooker Surry Hills office now under Fair Trading NSW investigation was a client of PaidOnExchange, the real estate industry company that turns pending estate agent sales commissions into cash.
Given the size of its advance, PaidOnExchange lodged a charge over the estate agency company, CBD Commercial, in July.
The office continues to trade under Fair Trading supervision. Its licensee has departed.
Since established in 2005, PaidOnExchange has marketed itself as a highly innovative industry option for cash flow funding situations without the red tape that banks traditionally demanded.
Its marketing suggests the typical six-week starvation period was able to be replaced, with estate agencies able to get a percentage of their pending commissions paid within four hours.
More than 1,000 agencies across Australia have taken up the company’s services since 2005.
“The essence of cash flow funding is simple; it represents the sale of invoices for completed services, in this case, commissions owing, to a third party, at a discount on the face value,” the website suggests.
“Having commissions owing converted to cash within four hours is a benefit that can’t be overstated,” it says.
The PaidOnExchange website suggests real estate can be a fickle business.
“All too often we witness a team performing at its peak for months on end, only to see it crash into obscurity seemingly overnight.
“Cash flow – or lack of it – is the killer.
“It’s caused the ruin of far too many real estate offices that, in every other aspect, had great prospects and a clean bill of health.
“Companies can, and do, simply starve to death while they wait for commissions to come in.
“At PaidOnExchange.com.au we recognised the real estate industry’s need for effective short-term financing, and done something about it.
“The solution is called PaidOnExchange.com.au, and it turns commissions owing into cash within 4 hours.
“With none of the red tape that banks traditionally demand, the six-week starvation period has finally been consigned to history.”
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/between-%24500000-and-%241-million-unaccounted-at-lj-hooker-surry-hills-nsw-fair-trading/2011110852264" target="_blank">Between $500,000 and $1 million is unaccounted for at the agency.</a>
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