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]

Joel Robinson

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

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

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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The sale of 5993 properties over the past financial year yielded $5.7 billion in transactions by the three-state McGrath Estate Agents group. The record tally eclipsed the previous financial year, when 5095 properties were sold for a $5 billion tally.
The average sale price eased from $981,000 to $951,000 between the two financial years.
“The past 12 months has been somewhat of a rollercoaster in the residential sector, with many locations experiencing the toughest of conditions for many years," chief executive John McGrath noted.
"However, I believe our results indicate good sales can still be made in less certain times," he says.
The agency, which opened four new offices to bring the company’s tally to 39, secured 1393 sales above $1 million and 375 sales above $2 million. There were 40 sales above $5 million.
"The top end of the market has been most challenging but we have still delivered some extremely strong results for properties above $5 million," he says.
"The market appears to be waiting for a bit more good news and evidence that the worst of the economic woes are behind us."
McGrath’s eastern suburbs office was the group's best performer, contributing $1.21 billion to the total.
The agency has company owned offices and franchise offices, with a presence in NSW, the ACT and Queensland.
Before its interstate expansion the group, which started 23 years ago in Paddington, Sydney, had notched up 3485 sales totalling $3.25 billion in the 2009 financial year. Many of the company’s original agents remain with the firm today.
"For many companies this is the first tough market they're endured.
"If you've been through a few periods like this, you learn not to panic, stick to the basics and stay the course,” McGrath says.
"I envisage, barring any macroeconomic disasters, we will see solid growth over the next 12 months in many of the best eastern state markets.”
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

No panic: tried and tested McGrath continues to grow after 23 years

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Investing in property, especially those near coastal areas or waterways, could become significantly more expensive if the government forges on with a proposal that mandatory flood cover be included in insurance policies.
The Insurance Council of Australia, which represents the nation’s biggest insurance companies, has rejected the proposal by the National Disaster Insurance Review estimating it will cost $5,000 to $7,000 in additional premiums to cover each of these homes against the risk of flooding.
It is on top of home and contents insurance premiums increasing between 20% and 40% in each state, mainly as a result of reinsurers increasing the cost of the cover they proved to insurers due to the recent spate of natural disasters.
Global reinsurer Munich Re estimates the Queensland and Victoria floods in December 2010/January 2011 resulted in insurance losses of $2.4 billion, while losses as a result of the Japanese tsunami are estimated at about $28 billion.
Century21 chairman Charles Tarbey sees a flow on effect if flood cover becomes mandatory.
"The issue is that investors have to cover costs, and will likely pass these additional insurance costs on. 
"If buyers find these premiums to be prohibitive they may not purchase properties in these areas, which will have an impact on the availability of rental stock, and we already have a shortage in many areas as it is,” he tells Property Observer.
For those who already own investment properties in these areas, Tarbey says rental rates will likely increase, “however the cost of owning the property could cause the investment to underperform.”
The proposal comes six months after the Queensland floods, with the state’s reconstruction authority reporting that hundreds of people might not be back in their homes by the start of the 2011 wet season.
Head of the reconstruction authority, Major-General Mick Slater, says 860 of the 2,500 damaged homes in North Queensland have been repaired.
In its response to the proposal from the National Disaster Insurance Review, the ICA has repeated its calls for a focus on risk mitigation strategies.
“Risk and premiums are inextricably linked and essentially we are arguing that the risk element needs to be attacked,” says ICA chief executive Rob Whelan.
“Let’s reduce the risk by having appropriate mitigation and then the cost of insurance will decline,” he says.
In illustrating its position, the ICA compares the role of flood insurance to that of comprehensive vehicle and third-party car insurance:
“The community and government do not expect that cheaper or subsidised car insurance for at-risk drivers will stop accidents on the road occurring. Indeed, reducing the price signal for hazardous driving activity in this instance may have the opposite outcome by removing one of the hip-pocket consequences of risky driving behaviour. Affordable car insurance cannot substitute for risk mitigation activities that lower the occurrence of accidents.”
The peak insurance body estimates that 7% of residential property in Australia is exposed to predictable and repetitive flooding, causing an average of $400 million to $450 million in damages per year.
It claims the private insurance market is working when it comes to dealing with flood risk, with 85% to 92% of submitted claims accepted by insurers.
“Flood insurance has been widely available for every property in Australia since 2006. “Market provision of cover is accelerating, with 54% of policies selected by consumers currently providing cover, [and] this is expected to exceed 84% in the next 18 months.
“There is no issue with availability.”
The ICA has also rejected proposals for a government flood pool, which it says will raise the cost of living.
“A new pool will require further government bureaucracy and complexity and will increase the cost of living for ordinary Australians. “The majority of insurers do not support the creation of a system that will pool flood premiums in government hands, preferring instead a model targeting those in need of premium support, with direct subsidies,” it argues.
However, the ICA say there is room for improvement “through market reforms and government action on risk mitigation and community support”.
“This is the true community problem that requires reform by government to achieve lasting solutions, without which any government or private market flood insurance solution is not sustainable over the long term,” the ICA says.
The proposals set out by the NDIR, chaired by former APRA board member John Trownbridge, do include proposals to mitigate flood risk.
These include a commitment to ensuring a measureable reduction in the number of flood-exposed residential properties in each LGA is achieved each year for the next 20 years.
Other government proposals include:
<ul>
<li>Providing public access to all publicly funded flood mapping conducted in Australia, followed by a program to harmonise Australian flood mapping practices to be aligned with world’s best practice.</li>
<li>Through COAG, implementing legislation ensuring flood risk disclosure, to provide all property owners and tenants with flood risk information during title transfer or development application, when a lease is entered into for occupation or use of a property and annually to the resident and to the ratepayer for the property.</li>
<li>Implementing a national policy for land use planning whereby no residential property is constructed on at-risk land, without enforcement of development controls that reduce the risk to less than a one-in-100-year type flood event.</li>
</ul>
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Premiums to soar if flood cover becomes mandatory: insurers

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<img style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">JACKIE O, the top-rating 2Day FM announcer, and her husband Lee Henderson have sold their 1890s Paddington house. The three-level, four-bedroom Victorian terrace that sits on a 210-square-metre block with lock-up parking for two cars had been listed with $3 million hopes for March auction.
<img src="/images/stories/jackieo-cropped.png">
The terrace (above) sold just days ago through Martin Maskin at Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay, who had been confident he could secure close to the expectation. The couple have revamped the Elizabeth Street terrace since buying it in 2009 for $2.75 million from Shine producer Jane Scott, whose film credits started rolling in 1972 on the set of The Adventures of Barry McKenzie. Scott, who paid $520,000 in 1989, had it revamped under the guidance of designer Robert Grubb. The couple hasn’t yet been spotted out looking for a replacement Sydney bolthole, with the Hendersons happy in the meantime to maintain a 42-hectare Kangaroo Valley farm that was recently featured on the cover of the must-read Southern Highlands magazine, High Life. The cover story showed off its amazing construction completion since the $825,000 purchase of the block in 2005. Since the birth of Kitty, their first child, Jackie can do most of her broadcasts from the south coast property, allowing her to sleep until shortly before her three-hour shift at 6am.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Fox FM Melbourne breakfast co-host Jo Stanley and her husband Darren McFarlane have sold their Elwood home (below) for $1.26 million.
<img src="/images/stories/jo-stanley-cropped.png">
It had been listed with $1.15 million to $1.25 million hopes. The couple purchased the three-bedroom terrace in 2006 for $752,000, about three years before the arrival of daughter Willow. Near the beach and Elwood village, the semi-detached Edwardian has two living areas and a relatively large side yard. They have upgraded to a four-bedroom plus study Art Deco family home after the sale by Chisholm &amp; Gamon Elwood agents Torsten Kasper and Daen Ziegler. Jo Stanley’s real maiden name is Bailey, which she changed to avoid confusion with fashion expert Jo Silvagni (née Bailey) and hairdresser Joh Bailey.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">The Brisbane home of the late sound man Sam Savvas has been listed for August 4 auction. Its columns leave the Acropolis in the shade. The seven bedroom-house (below), which covers 2500 square metres, was built in 2000 after the 4047-square-metre block cost $305,000 in 1999.
<img src="/images/stories/savvas-cropped.png">
It has been listed through Sarah Bushell of Place Estate Agents Bulimba. Stretton, which is 17km south of the CBD, has a $325,000 median price, according to RP Data.
<img src="/images/stories/savvas2-cropped.png">
Savvas, who died of a heart attack in May, was behind the Brisbane-headquartered Wow Sight and Sound chain of electronics superstores.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">Executive chairman of the Macquarie Radio Network, Russell Tate, and his wife, Carole, have sold their Longueville waterfront mansion for just shy of $5.8 million. The Tates, who are downsizing, bought the three-level Mediterranean-style house in 1998 for $2,775,000. With views over Yacht Bay, the four-bedroom, four-bathroom house was built in 1991 on a 1454-square-metre block, which cost $1.7 million in 1988. The Tates had the Amalfi Place cul-de-sac property listed with Brent Courtney at McGrath Lane Cove with $6.6 million hopes since November 2010.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">Chef Steven Snow, who Title Tattle seems to recall gained his following at Chez Gourmet in Darlinghurst in the mid-1980s, and his Portuguese wife, Margarita, have sold their hinterland Byron Bay retreat. Snow opened Fins in 1991 in a quirky old building on the riverbanks of Brunswick Heads on the NSW far north coast, becoming renowned for Brunswick bouillabaisse, his saffron-scented Portuguese-style caldeirada crammed with local bug tails, mussels, scallops, spannercrab and fish. The property, bought back in times when $79,000 got you a hillside acreage, sold just weeks after its scheduled June auction. Seeking more than $1.2 million, First National Byron agent Helen Huntly-Barratt had the listing of the four-hectare property at Possum Creek. Reflecting the ambient north coast lifestyle, the Greg Tollis-designed house (below) was master built by Steve Lucas using the finest grade timbers.
<img src="/images/stories/pine-mountain-road-cropped.png">
Its chefs kitchen features solid Portuguese marble benches. The positioning of the property on the block ensured it had the best northern aspect, privacy and also an easy stroll to their own swimming hole and waterfall on the creek. The one-hatted restaurant Fins moved in the late 1990s to The Beach Hotel in Byron Bay, but Snow left when the Van Haandel syndicate took possession of the property from John “Strop” Cornell and his wife, Delvene Delaney, in early 2007. His book Byron: Cooking And Eating, with photography by Brett Boardman, was published by Murdoch Books in 2008. Given Fins is now at the Salt Village at Kingscliff, the property had been in the rental pool at $800 a week.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">Just down the Pine Mountain Road is Cedar Springs, the imposing Possum Creek holding still listed by Duncan and Sally Mount. The 132-hectare property (below) was bought from actors Paul and Linda Hogan in 2006 for $8.1 million.
<img src="/images/stories/possum-creek-cropped.png">
Its five-bedroom, Renaissance-style mansion overlooking a rainforest canopy now sits on 47 hectares following a subdivision. It comes with $7.9 million-plus hopes through Nicolette van Wijngaarden at Unique Estates. The property advertising history website, REfindhouseprices.com, suggests it had been listed for 444 days when Title Tattle looked mid-week, compared with the Snow property which sold on its 44th day on the market.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">Title Tattle aims to tell you as soon as we know – often before it happens – so the word from Sydney’s eastern surburbs is that estate agents have been making tracks to appraise the former Sydney Harbour home (below) of arts patron Ann Lewis.  
<img src="/images/stories/lewis-cropped.png">
It was her home for about 55 years, and will now be listed by her four children, Amanda Zsebik, Tony Lewis, Annalise Scanlan and Daniel Lewis, following her death in May. Gone is her contemporary art collection – having been given to regional galleries in her last act of generosity – including a massive John Olsen painting that hung from her dining room ceiling for 45 years. It’s now, with an estimated $2 million value, at the Newcastle Regional Gallery. Her home town of Moree has been given 65 works by indigenous artists. A Mungindi grazier's daughter, Ann Livingston met building construction magnate John Lewis on the dance floor at Prunier's in Woollahra. Luciano Pavarotti was just one of many dinner guests at Anne Lewis’ three-level villa, which would not look out of place overlooking the Mediterranean.
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">Speaking of which, and don’t say Title Tattle told you, but apparently currency trader Ivan Ritossa, who once held the record for the highest-priced Sydney harbour-front purchase, has just had friends and family to celebrations for his 50thbirthday at St Jean Cap Ferrat in the south of France. It’s becoming quite the trend of late; investment banker John Wylie had his super-quiet 50th birthday celebrations recently in nearby Monaco. Of course Ritossa has his own Cap Ferrat retreat – L'Aniram du Cap – bought through his Narnia Investments company.
<img src="/images/stories/ritossa-cropped.png" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; padding: 2px; border: 0px initial initial;">
It (above) has views across the so-called bay of billioniares towards Monaco and Italy from its vantage point in the shadow of the palms of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. The expatriate Singapore-based global head of foreign exchange for Barclays Capital, and his wife Marina, own the $45 million Sydney residence Coolong, which they bought for a then-record price in 2008. The Vaucluse house with a private beach, currently rented to Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch, dates back to Sir Alexis Albert, from the Boomerang music songbook family, who built on the 4100-square-metre block in 1936.
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Jackie O swaps Paddington pad for valley hideaway

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<img src="/images/stories/stjohns2-cropped.png">
The historic St John’s church site, one of the oldest and most well-known properties on Sydney’s Oxford Street strip, is being transformed into a boutique residential and retail project.
The St John’s Paddington project comes with eight residences as well as retail and café space fronting the busy Sydney hub.
Prices start at $1,675,000 in the project, which is being developed by Australasia Properties Pty Ltd and marketed through Savills residential projects divisional director, Peter Coulton.
The site was sold by Savills last year for $9 million to the developers who have since worked with designers Ancher Mortlock Woolley and architects Marchese Partners.
They have adjusted the initial 2005 conditional development consent for the redevelopment granted by the Land &amp; Environment Court.
“For almost two decades the buildings have been left vacant, subject to vandalism and in an increasing state of deterioration,” its April 2011 Graham Brooks &amp; Associates heritage impact statement says.
It has frontages to Oxford and Regent streets, and at the rear, Renny Lane.
“These historic Paddington landmarks will be given a new lease of life,” Mr Coulton says.
The terrace-like apartments range from 171 square metres up to 339 square metres.
The free-standing 1904 former manse will be a Torrens title offering. It’s a two-storey Federation Arts and Crafts property on Regent Street.
The St John’s manse was built in 1845, with later additions, making it one of Paddington’s oldest buildings. The colonial Georgian manse, built at a cost of 240 pounds, has had a small tree growing in its chimney for several years.
In 1859 the Gothic-style St John’s church was built next door to a design by Henry Robertson.
In 1885 it was extended by the church hall at the rear. It was deconsecrated as a Presbyterian church in 2000.
The church sold in 2004 for $8.3 million to a syndicate headed by Tony Braham. The syndicate offloaded the project in 2010.
It sits within the Sydney City Council municipality.
<img src="/images/stories/stjohns4-cropped.png">
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Religious colonial Paddington readies for retail and residency 

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Melbourne businessman Paul Preat, who heads a helicopter adventure tourism company, has spent $8 million on an Airlie Beach retreat.
He has bought Mandalay Coral Gardens, a record-setting waterfront residence in tropical North Queensland, which comes with its own helipad.
It was sold by Whitsundays developer Bill Sharpe and his wife, Kirsty.
It won the Australian Master Builders Association house of the year award for 2007-08.
It took four years for the Sharpes to complete building on the 4749-square-metre property, to designs by architect Peter Connelly.
The four-bedroom main building has two levels with sliding glass walls, plus huge outdoor terraces and a marina berth.
It comes with a 40-metre infinity-edge pool that wraps around three sides of the house and has a swim-up wet bar. Informal living areas extend to a private beach with a teppanyaki pavilion.
Ken Jacobs and Darren Curtis at Christie's International oversaw the listing in conjunction with Rob Taylor at PRD Nationwide Whitsundays. It was initially listed in 2008, with the Preats being the keenest buyers when it didn’t sell at its June 2010 auction on Hayman Island.
The 1000-hectare Larundel farm, the Preat family residence in Victoria's Western District, remains listed through Jock Langley at Abercromby's Real Estate Armadale.
Most recently priced at $14 million, it was initially listed with $20 million hopes in late 2009.
The Larundel homestead is at Cargerie, near Meredith. Its interiors are by designer John Coote, and it is now set in Paul Bangay gardens. It was built by the Austin family, founders of the Larundel psychiatric and Austin hospitals.
Mr Preat, who has been associated with veterinary products, has indicated previously he and his wife Gabrielle were selling to pursue a new tourism opportunity in Queensland.
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Melburnian shells out $8m for Whitsundays winter escape 

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Australian house prices have started a substantial decline, a senior academic economist at the Australian School of Business says.
“It is likely that this is the beginning of a substantial housing correction, because the stimulus effects are continuing to fade,” Jonathan Reeves says.
Dr Reeves says that in contrast to other developed countries, Australian house prices rose in 2009 and 2010 – due to the government stimulus package that included specific housing measures.
He noted the impact an increase in interest rates may have on Australian house prices.
“The magnitude of a fall in Australian house prices will most likely be influenced by overseas events, and the most immediate threat may come from the European sovereign debt crisis and the impact this could have on raising mortgage interest rates in Australia.”
He noted the deputy governor of the Bank of England, Charlie Bean, said at a conference in Australia yesterday that there may be little option for policy makers other than to clamp down on house price growth, even though it would be politically difficult and economically costly.
Dr Reeves also highlighted the impact of events in other overseas countries on Australian house prices.
“Business cycles transmitted by China are also a high concern, along with the performance of the US economy. In addition, falling house prices in New Zealand, with a weak New Zealand economy, may have substantial impacts on Australian banks operating in New Zealand.”
He says most Australian forecasters of house prices rely on Australian house price index returns, rather than overseas figures, which could lead to a fundamental problem in forecasting.
“There is simply insufficient historical Australian data available for reliable models to be constructed.
“In house price modelling with US and European data over the last century, the simple model of long-run average house prices being a multiple of four times the average gross household salary, has proved to be a reliable guide.
“The economic rationale behind long-run house prices not staying above a multiple of four for long periods is that households simply cannot afford this through all phases of the business cycle.
“Currently in Australia the multiple is over six and therefore they are very likely to fall considerably in value,” Dr Reeves said.
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Aussie house prices set for big slide: leading academic

<html><body>Apple is set to spend more than $10 million on its first retail site in Brisbane’s CBD and British clothing operator Topshop is tipped to take over some vacated Borders sites for its Australian entry later this year.</body></html>

ksallai-gEH8VApaRs

Apple for Brisbane, UK’s Topshop said to be eyeing ex-Borders stores

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Investors in Western Australia will be buoyed by expectations of rental growth of 6.3% over the next two years, compared with a more modest national growth forecast, according to NAB’s latest quarterly residential survey.
While WA rental growth forecasts to June 2013 have held steady over the three months since the last survey, nationwide rent expectations have fallen from 5.2% in the March quarter, currently sitting at 4.4%.
The resource-rich state has also held steady while forecasts for NSW have dropped from around 6% in March 2011 to 4.6% in June.
Rental growth expectations in Victoria are weakest at 3.7%, but they have strengthened in Queensland from 2.5% in the March quarter to 4% in June and also in South Australian and the Northern Territory, where they have risen from 2.9% to 4.2% over the same period.
Over the last quarter rental growth was positive in all states, with the biggest increases recorded in SA/NT (2.4%), WA (2%) and NSW (1.5%). Rental growth in Queensland was slowest at 0.4%.
For the next 12 months, expectations for rents have been revised down slightly, with the latest survey pointing to nationwide rental increases of 3.1% over the next year, compared with 3.5% in the March quarter survey. Rental expectations were downgraded in all states to June 2012.
According to the survey, Australian resident investors make up more than quarter (28%) of the market, down from 34% in March.
The market continues to be dominated by owner-occupiers, who now account for 46% of total demand compared with 42% in March.
First home buyers account for 17% of the market, with those buying new developments most active in NSW (24%) and least active in Queensland (10%). The share of overseas buyers increased slightly to 7%, up from 6% in March.
“These trends are expected to stay broadly unchanged over the next 12 months,” the NAB survey says.
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WA rental growth expectations hold steady: NAB

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Sydney’s landmark Exchange Centre, the home of the Australian Securities Exchange, has been listed with $200 million hopes by receivers.
It’s being offloaded by Record Realty, the listed property arm of Allco Finance Group, which paid $238 million to German fund Deka Immobilien in 2006. 
Record bought the 13-storey building on the corner of Bridge and Pitt streets after a bidding war that reputedly included GPT, Mirvac, Commonwealth Property Office Fund and Stockland.
Deka had paid $177 million for the site in 1999.
The ASX has a 12-year lease signed in 2000, with a further five-year option. The deal incorporates an annual fixed rental increase of 4.5%.
At the time of its purchase, with just $68 million of equity, Record's chief executive, Stewart Tillyard, said the Bridge Street property was a "trophy" asset for the growing business.
"The deal specifically fits with our investment mandate, which is to focus on properties with long-term quality tenants," Mr Tillyard said.
It was 2009 when administrators were appointed to the management arm of its office property business, after Record Realty's main bankers, the then struggling Bank of Scotland International, called in its debts. The bank has a reported $190 million exposure.
The building was thought to be sold in 2009 at somewhere between $140 million and $170 million, but the deal did not eventuate. Its reputed buyer was the Hong Kong-based CLSA Asia Pacific Markets, the brokerage and investment arm of French bank Credit Agricole.
There has since been a renovation and several vacant floors tenanted that have improved its occupancy to 93%.
Receivers KordaMentha have appointed CBRE executive managing director Scott Gray-Spencer and CBRE regional director of institutional investments, Rob Sewell, to undertake the marketing campaign.
Mr Gray-Spencer said the quality of the building and the premium tenancy profile would attract significant buyer interest.
“The Exchange Centre is one of Sydney’s most securely leased prime office investments, with the recently refurbished entrance foyer and public viewing gallery attracting a number of quality tenants to the building,” Mr Gray-Spencer said.
“Tenant enquiry has resulted in approximately 3,400 square metres of new tenant commitment and a further 1,000 square metres of lease renewals  in the past six months which has increased the average lease expiry to six years.”
Mr Gray-Spencer suggested as the 20 Bridge Street building was the only real prime asset of its size to be offered this year, pent-up market demand was expected to fuel interest.
“Currently there is more capital looking to invest in the office sector than prior to the GFC.
“In particular, Australian domestic superannuation and wholesale funds are becoming increasingly active and presently have $10 billion in firepower.”
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$200 million hopes for Allco collapse Sydney office listing

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Popular Sydney eastern suburbs watering hole, the Golden Sheaf Hotel in Double Bay, has been listed with $80-million-plus hopes by Bruce Solomon's Solotel Group.
The heritage-listed 1936 pub was bought for $5,327,000 in 1991. Its New South Head Road premises was expanded after $4.8 million was spent in 2006 with purchase of the adjacent George's restaurant from Leo Varvaritis. The refurbished hotel and rear beer garden was launched in 2009.
Solotel has earmarked the sale proceeds to fund its new Bar Sydney in Westfield Sydney, and a possible complex in New York.
The Golden Sheaf forms part of Solotel's portfolio of 16 hotels and four restaurants.
The group includes the two Aria restaurants in Sydney and Brisbane, run by celebrity chef Matt Moran, who will also run the new Bar Sydney.
Jones Lang LaSalle's national director of pub investment sales John Musca has listed the Golden Sheaf. The SMH reported it is considered among the country's most profitable pubs.
The Golden Sheaf’s neighbour is the Kiora Lands proposed development – a joint venture between Woollahra Council and Woolworths, who have often been mooted buyers. The current Kiora project will occupy the current Woolworths site and council car park and eventually house a four-storey complex.
It was 1987 when the Sheaf was contemplated as being part of a bigger development during its ownership by John Lyons’ Realty Property Group and its major shareholder, Sir Ron Brierley’s Industrial Equities Ltd. There had been brief contemplation of a 12-storey international hotel.
The hotel had been bought by the Lyons syndicate for a reported $10 million from the well-known Ryan hotelier family in 1986. The Ryans, who had been there since 1974, sold because they thought the land content had become too valuable for it to be just a pub.
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Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

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Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News