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

<main data-perf-region="main">
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

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?

<html><body>
As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
Not content with being home to the premier football team in Australia, Geelong is also developing into an investment hotspot, with its more affordable house prices luring Melburnians willing to make the commute.
Geelong, which a population of about 180,000 people, is an hour’s drive or train ride from the Melbourne CBD but has median house prices significantly below those of its big-city neighbour.
The regional city has been picked as a hotspot by hotspotting.com.au’s Terry Ryder and is ranked 74th on Your Investment Property magazine’s Top 100 suburbs survey earlier this year.
Ryder tells Property Observer Geelong is a good long-term prospect for investors, and will get stronger.
“It has quite a lot to offer, and is viable alternative to Melbourne,” Ryder says.
“It is considerably cheaper. As a general rule of thumb, a house in Geelong is $100,000 cheaper than Melbourne. Land is also cheaper to buy.”
A ring road currently under construction will improve links to Melbourne, as will a $4 billion rail connection, also under way.
“There are also plans to upgrade Avalon to a second international airport and extends rail links from Melbourne to the airport,”Ryder says.
Currently, a peak express train from Railway Terrace, Geelong to Melbourne’s Southern Cross takes 53 minutes.
Other factors in its favour, according to Ryder, are its water-based lifestyle centred around the bay and surf beaches and strong job prospects.
Ryder says plans to relocate car import and export trade from the Port of Melbourne to the Port of Geelong will bring up to 1,500 jobs to the region.
And he says the success of footy team should also not be underestimated in terms of attracting people to the region.
“Having a team that wins does make a difference. It generates confidence in the community and has economic benefits, too,” he says.
Building activity appears to be picking up, with a total of 249 domestic new building permits issued in the City of Greater Geelong in June 2011, an increase of 35.3% on the previous month, according to the latest economic report for the region. 
House and unit prices in Geelong have performed well over the last 12 months, exceeding price growth in the Melbourne unit market and not far behind house price growth, according to Real Estate Institute of Australia’s June quarter figures. 
During the three-month period to June, 438 houses were sold, with a median price of $370,000. Cheaper houses are priced just above $300,000 while more expensive properties sell around the $480,000 mark
House prices are down 3.7% over the June quarter but for the year are up a 7.2%.
Over the same period, 69 units changed hands at a median price of $317,000.
Unit prices are up 8.7% over the June quarter and up 13.2% for the year to June.
How Geelong stacks up against Melbourne and other regional cities 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="92">
Distance to Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Median house price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Change over 12 months
</td>
<td valign="top" width="87">
Median unit price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
Change over 12 months
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Geelong
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="92">
80 kms
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
$370,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
7.2%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="87">
$317,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
13.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Ballarat
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="92">
120 kms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
$289,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
24.4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="87">
$230,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
26%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Bendigo
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="92">
160 kms
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
$288,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
7.4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="87">
$200,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
-21.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Melbourne
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="92">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
$590,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
9.3%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="87">
$475,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
8.1%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: REIA market facts
According to the Victoria’s Department of Human services, the median rent on a one-bedroom flat in Geelong is $178 per week, compared with $155 a year ago, and a two-bedroom flat rents for a median of $260 (compared with $257 a year ago).
The REIA puts the median rent on a three-bedroom house at $300 per month, down 3.2% over the June quarter but up 7% for the year.
Four-bedroom houses rent for a median $380 a week, up 5.6% compared with the same quarter last year.
According to RP Data, median rental yields in Greater Geelong are just under 4%. In Geelong West, yields are around 4.4% (median sales price of $386,000) and in North Geelong yields are around 4.6% (median sales price of $314,000).
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Hotspot: Geelong's on the ball with rising yields 

<html><body>
The most discounted property in Queensland is the second-most discounted property in Australia, 1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa. It has nearly halved its price but has yet to find a buyer in the nearly year it has been on the market. It's been regularly featured on Property Observer as it struggles to find a buyer even at its reduced pricing.
Last week SQM Research released a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/southbank-properties-raise-price-expectations-but-still-feature-on-sqm-s-victorian-discount-list/2011092751713"> list of the most discounted properties in Victoria</a>, and the difference between the two states is striking. The 10th-place Queensland property, 13 Gawler Street, Rochedale South, is discounted by 25%, which is the same discount as the number one property on the Victoria list, 1/9 Albert Place, Hoppers Crossing.
Queensland vendors are offering steeper discounts, and RP Data analysis recently revealed that <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-hit-hardest-post-gfc-as-6.3-of-homes-worth-less-than-their-purchase-price/2011092851719">6.3% of Queensland homes are now worth less than their purchase price</a>. Queensland has been hit hard with the declining tourism market and natural disasters and is struggling to recover from the GFC. 
"We believe that for the moment, houses in Brisbane are still considerably overvalued,” SQM director Louis Christopher says.
“House prices are running at a 27% premium to nominal GDP. On any measure, if this overvaluing continues, prices will correct further this year and possibly next year," Christopher says.
"Annually Brisbane house prices fell by 3.6% already over the period to June 2011, and over the 2011 calendar year SQM Research forecasts house prices for Brisbane to fall anywhere between -7.6% to -9.6%."
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">1</h2>
<a target="_blank" title="1350 Wynnum Road" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106966579">1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa, Queensland, 4173</a>
On the market since: November 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $700,000
Current asking price: $380,000
Reduction: 46%
Days on market: 322
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">2</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008940771" target="_blank">102 Fountain Road, Burpengary, Queensland, 4505</a>
On the market since: April 17, 2011
Initial asking price: $1.2million
Current asking price: $699,000
Reduction: 42%
Days on market: 162
 
3
<a target="_blank" title="128 Charlotte Street" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008735391">3307/128 Charlotte Street, Brisbane, Queensland, 4000</a>
On the market since: December 12, 2010
Initial asking price: $575,000
Current asking price: $399,000
Reduction: 31%
Days on market: 287
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">4</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008648371" target="_blank">190 Halls Road, Luscombe, Queensland, 4207</a>
On the market since: October 31, 2010
Initial asking price: $840,000
Current asking price: $600,000
Reduction: 29%
Days on market: 329
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2009004616" target="_blank">37 Marlborough Road, Wellington Point, Queensland, 4160</a>
On the market since: May 22, 2011
Initial asking price: $1.25 million
Current asking price: $899,000
Reduction: 28%
Days on market: 126
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">6</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008269132" target="_blank">312/51 Hercules Street, Hamilton, Queensland, 4007</a> (pictured)
On the market since: March 14, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.6 million
Current asking price: $1.175 million
Reduction: 27%
Days on market: 560
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">7</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%3D107499465">13 Henry Street, Greenslopes, Queensland, 4120</a>
On the market since: June 25, 2011
Initial asking price: $949,000
Current asking price: $699,000
Reduction: 26%
Days on market: 91
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">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%3D106201967">38 Simon Street, Yeronga, Queensland, 4104</a>
On the market since: December 12, 2009
Initial asking price: $950,000
Current asking price: $700,000
Reduction: 26%
Days on market: 651
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">9</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%3D106773785">4 Lower Clifton Terrace, Red Hill, Queensland, 4059</a>
On the market since: August 28, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.2 million
Current asking price: $895,000
Reduction: 25%
Days on market: 392
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">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%3D107276504" target="_blank">13 Gawler Street, Rochedale South, Queensland, 4123</a>
On the market since: March 26, 2011
Initial asking price: $429,000
Current asking price: $350,000
Reduction: 25%
Days on market: 182
 
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.
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Queensland vendors offer far deeper discounts than Victorians

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october4mallorca]}
Cielo de Bonaire, one of the world's most expensive villas, has been on the market with price hopes of €50 million ($69.24 million) since 2007 and is yet to find a buyer. Matthias Kuhn built the property on speculation, and it hit the market just before the GFC hit in early 2007. <a target="_blank" href="https://property.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/property/overseas/article1834281.ece">The Times of London</a> reported at the time that it was part of the evolution from a cheap holiday destination for British sun-seekers to a billionaires' playground.
The eight-bedroom, eight bathroom mansion has3,500 square metres of living space, a helipad, tennis court, indoor and outdoor pools, five guest suites, servants' accommodation and the best views in Mallorca, as it is perched on a hillside with panoramas over the sea and mountains. 
The property is being marketed by<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mallorca-sothebysrealty.com/en/property/id/573992"> Sotheby's</a>. 
</body></html>

Luxurious €50 million villa in Mallorca on the market four years and counting

<html><body>
Rat Island, a 10,117-square-metre rocky outcrop off the Bronx, New York, has been sold for US$160,000.
Ozzie Crisalli, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.lyonauction.com/pdfs/10-2%20brochure.pdf">Syracuse Realty selling agent</a>, says it was a rare chance to own a unique piece of real estate with a history dating back over 350 years. Originally part of Thomas Pell’s land purchase from the Siwanoy Indians in 1654, the island did not become part of the city until the 1880s.
It was used in the mid-17th century as a typhoid quarantine hospital and was called the Pelham Pesthouse.
It was a writers’ and artists’ colony in the early 1900s.
It was sold by Red Brennen, a retired marine contractor who bought it for about $5,000 in 1972 and used it to store equipment and salvage barges.
It comes with no jetty, no electricity and no power. Much of it is underwater during high tide. Located on City Island Harbor, part of Long Island Sound, the island is zoned residential.
Its buyer can see it from his back garden on nearby City Island.
The land was most recently officially valued by the city at $426,000.
The New York Times suggests the name was related to prisoners, called rats, escaping from Hart Island, swimming with cardboard boxes over their heads to look like bobbing trash, but it is not clear if that is true.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

New York's deserted Rat Island sells for US$160,000

<html><body>
The average house price across 59 UK cities rose by 65% or £68,236 over the past decade, moving from £104,681 in August 2001 to £172,917 in August 2011, according to research by Halifax, part of the Lloyds banking group.
It’s equivalent to a weekly increase of £131. House prices across the UK as a whole increased by 56% over the same period.
The data indicated house prices in city locations fell less than those in regional areas during the downturn.
City property prices fell, on average, by 17% between 2007 and 2009, compared with an overall fall of 24% across the UK.
Over the past year, city house prices have declined by 2.5%, lower than the 4.3% drop in the average UK house price.
Westminster was named as the most expensive UK city, with the average house price of £570,964, research from Halifax shows.
All 10 of the most expensive cities in England are in the south. Edinburgh is the most expensive UK city outside southern England, with an average house price of £206,303.
Salford in Manchester is the least expensive UK city, with an average house price of £105,833, followed by Derry at £106,299.
The Halifax Cities Review tracks house price movements in 59 of the 66 cities in the UK. A city is typically defined as a large town or any town in the UK that has a cathedral.
Affordability in cities has declined over the last 10 years. The typical city home is 5.2 times average gross annual earnings in 2011, up from an average multiple of 4.8 in 2001. There was peak of 7.4 in 2007.
“With the housing demand and supply imbalance that characterises the UK property market often more acute within our major urban conurbations, homes in cities across the country are typically trading at a marked premium over neighbouring areas,” Suren Thiru, housing economist at Halifax, says.
“City house prices are generally supported by demand from those looking to gain from the economic and lifestyle benefits often associated with residing in major urban areas, as well as by the pressures on the housing supply that often typify such locations.”
The Halifax House Price Index is the UK's longest-running monthly house price series, with data covering the whole country going back to January 1983.
</body></html>

UK cities fared better than regional areas in housing price slump 

<html><body>
<div class="event_header">
<div class="logo"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/templates/property/images/logo.png"></a></div>
<div class="sponsor"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/stories/POeBooks/sponsored-by-tret.gif"></div>
</div>
<div class="event_content">
<div class="event_title">
<h1 style="font-size: 24px;">50 Smart Tips for Real Estate Agents to Sell More in a Tough 2012</h1>
</div>
<div class="arrow"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/templates/events/images/triangle.png" width="121" height="60"></div>
<div class="event_article" style="width: 860px;">
<img class="event_image" src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/stories/POeBooks/tret-ebook-cover-200w.png" alt="Free eBook: 50 smart tips for real estate agents to sell more in a tough 2012" title="Free eBook: 50 smart tips for real estate agents to sell more in a tough 2012"> {rsform 84}</div>
</div>
</body></html>

flim-64GFPAozQb

Download your free eBook

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october4zsazsa]}
Ninety-four-year-old actress Zsa Zsa Gabor has knocked $2.1 million off her price hopes for her ornate Beverly Hills mansion. Gabor listed the four-bedroom property in June 2011 for $15 million and now wants $12.9 million for it. 
As showy and glamorous as the Austrian-born star herself, the property features a grand formal sitting room with antique French fireplace, French details, mouldings and doors throughout, high ceilings, four guest quarters, servents' quarters and parking for 24 cars. Gabor says the house once belonged to Howard Hughes and Elvis Presley, according to listing agent Christophe Choo. While many celebrities keep their purchases and sales quiet, Gabor's property is being marketed at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.zsazsagaborbelairmansionforsale.com/">www.zsazsagaborbelairmansionforsale.com</a>. The house is also listed on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.privatecelebritycompound.com/">www.privatecelebritycompound.com</a>, which is also run by Choo.
Gabor came to prominence in the 1940s and is as well known for her multiple husbands (she has had nine, including current spouse Frédéric Prinz von Anhalt) and quick wit as she is for her film and television appearances. Gabor has recently suffered ill health, falling into a six-day coma in May 2011. 
Gabor has lived in the Beverly Hills house since 1974. 
</body></html>

Zsa Zsa Gabor knocks $2 million off asking price for Beverly Hills mansion

<html><body>
More than $100 million worth of blue-ribbon southern NSW properties is currently listed for sale.
Twynam Agriculture's 14,928-hectare holding, Gundaline at Carrathool, and its 17,201-hectare Hay holding, Cobran, headline the listings. The Twynam Agricultural Group was commenced in the early 1970s by John Dieter Kahlbetzer.
They are to be auctioned on October 14, with about 2,000 hectares of cotton – with a $1 million-plus estimate – included with each property. The properties are expected to attract international buying interest.
They with 30,000-megalitre irrigation entitlements. The two stations are expected to fetch more than $50 million through Ray White Rural Sydney principal Bruce Gunning.
The Eulandool aggregation at Condobolin (pictured), in southwest NSW, also comes with $1 million in crop income and has been scheduled for October 13 auction. It is one of NSW's largest broad-acre cropping farms – a 14,569-hectare dryland property.
Its Meares &amp; Associates marketing says 23,508 tonnes of grain was harvested in 2010. This year there are 7,568 hectares of standing crops “with the prospects looking bright,” according to listing agent Chris Meares.
The 4,106-hectare Bobbara Station at Harden is expected to fetch more than $13 million at its October 27 auction.
In the eastern Riverina, Sydney businessman <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/billabong-station-at-wagga-wagga-listed-for-october-auction/2011090551419">David Baffsky is offering Billabong Station after 31 years of ownership</a>. Billabong Station is expected to fetch more than $9 million.
The recent private treaty market listings include Uardry, with about $40 million being sought for the 35000-hectare sheep farm.
The Paraway Pastoral Company has been among the district’s more active buyers, with the Macquarie Group's rural arm owning Pooginook at Jerilderie, Steam Plains at Conargo, Mungadal at Hay, and Cooinbil at Carrathool.
Its most recent purchase was reputedly part of Pevensey at Hay in the western Riverina.
According to the Weekly Times, Paraway purchased between 16,000 and 18,000 hectares of TA Field Estates' Pevensey Station, with the Field family reported to have retained Pevensey's farming land.
The sold country is adjacent to the 42,750-hectare Mungadal Station, which Paraway purchased last year.
The sale would bring Paraway's land total in the western Riverina to more than 170,000 hectares.
It purchased the 19,656-hectare Pooginook Merino stud at Jerilderie in 2007, the 46,351-hectare Steam Plains Station at Conargo in 2008 and the 90,655-hectare Cooinbil Station at Carrathool last year.
TA Field Estates last year sold Hunthawang Station at Hillston.
Hunthawang Station, the Field family’s 20,000-hectare Lachlan River property, sold for $5,639,177 to the NSW Parks and Wildlife Service.
The T. A. Field dynasty had bought it from A.B. Triggs 90 years ago.
The historic farm, on the Lachlan River, east of Hillston, was reputedly sold without water entitlements.
It was passed in at 2001 auction for $7.7 million when the rural holding comprised 18,948 hectares of dry land grazing country and 1,557 hectares of irrigation.
The NSW government has purchased other western Riverina properties to convert to national parks, including the 20,000-hectare Oolambeyan Station, at Carrathool, Yanga Station at Balranald, Booligal Station, at Booligal, and Mulawa, Darcoola and Norwood stations west of Hay.
</body></html>

Riverina rural offerings top $100 million

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/october3palmer]}
Golf champion Michael Campbell and his wife, Julie, have sold their Vaucluse abode for about $6.5 million, with the couple deciding to move to Switzerland so as to educate their two boys at an international school.
The New Zealand-born Campbell has also recently been mostly playing on the European circuit, with earnings in eight of his 22 appearances totalling €77,000 so far this year.
With beach, reserve and harbour views, the Polynesian-inspired pavilion house was designed by architect Peter Muller in the late 1960s for the Schwartz family.
Its interiors were designed by Garth Barnett.
Spanning three levels, the Palmerston Street house comes with four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
The renovated 525-square-metre holding, which sits on the Watsons Bay border, was bought for $6.5 million in September last year, following the $9.4 million sale of the Campbells’ previous home, Kinnelar, at nearby Parsley Bay during the same month. It last traded for $2.9 million in 2001.
Over the years the Campbells have lived the tournament circuit staying variously at homes in Britain, the Bahamas and Sydney.
His first career major was the 2005 US Open with $1.17 million prize money. The then 36-year-old Campbell, four off the pace overnight, collected four birdies and three bogeys to win by two from Tiger Woods, who had been chasing his 10th career major. He also won the richest prize in golf, the £1,000,000 HSBC World Match Play Championship, in the same year.
The Vaucluse house was sold through Laing+Simmons Double Bay's Bart Doff.
</body></html>

Golf champion Michael Campbell sells in Vaucluse, lured by greens of Europe

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/september28nevada]}
A six-storey house overlooking Lake Tahoe in Nevada, in the US, has been listed with price hopes of $43 million. The owners, Linda and David Shaheen, began building the 836-square-metre house in 2001, and it was finished in 2010. 
Only the garage is visible from the street, as the rest of the house is built into a slope overlooking the lake. Its walls are angled glass and it includes a spiral glass stairway and glass lift to all six levels. It includes a steel pier out into the lake, a gym and a spa.
According to the <a href="https://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424053111903791504576584732133926352" target="_blank">Wall Street Journal </a>the Shaheens, who were in the carpet business, bought the land for $2.7 million and tore down the existing structure. The house is being marketed by <a href="https://www.cbselectre.com/homes/NV/Crystal_Bay/89402/580_GONOWABIE_RD/10975280/index" title="Coldwell Banker" target="_blank">Coldwell Banker</a> agent Charlyn Enstad.
</body></html>

Latest Property News

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

Guides

Editor's Picks

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Property News

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

Guides

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News