Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Joel Robinson

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

The wave of apartment proposals sweeping through Mosman shows no signs of slowing, with another major residential development lodged through the NSW Government's State Significant Development pathway.

Developer First Quadrant Properties, which recently completed Willoughby Grounds and has several projects in planning across the North Shore, has unveiled plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cove-on-ourimbah-40-56-ourimbah-road-mosman-nsw-2088">Cove on Ourimbah</a>, a 63-apartment development on Ourimbah Road, adding to the growing pipeline of projects reshaping one of Sydney's most tightly held harbour suburbs.

The proposal would consolidate nine properties at 40-56 Ourimbah Road into a part eight, part nine-storey apartment building, continuing the momentum created by the NSW Government's accelerated planning pathways that have seen several significant developments emerge across Mosman over the past 12 months.

Designed by Doroch Architects, the project would deliver 63 apartments, resident wellness facilities including a gym, pool and sauna, landscaped communal spaces and basement parking, while using recessed upper levels, generous setbacks and extensive planting to reduce the perceived scale of the building.

<img alt="First look: First Quadrant Properties eyes nine-storey Mosman apartment project under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32ee68e4-141e-4a10-8f83-48e961a5e71e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ourimbah%20Road%2C%20Mosman%20a.png?VersionId=CUeILFc6APlwXPc.iplElbxHvREKwjig" />

Doroch Architects said the building had been designed to reinforce Mosman's established character.

"The building's aesthetic is grounded in the existing residential character of Ourimbah Road and the broader Mosman context," the architect noted in the planning documents submitted to the NSW Government.

The design adopts a contemporary material palette of natural stone, textured concrete and brown concave metal cladding, complemented by integrated planters and deep balconies. The podium incorporates softened curved concrete forms, while increased setbacks have been provided adjacent to the heritage-listed property at 60 Ourimbah Road to create a more sympathetic transition.

The site sits around 330 metres from Mosman Town Centre, placing it within the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy area, where increased residential density is being encouraged close to shops, transport and services.

The proposal follows a string of major apartment projects lodged or declared State Significant in Mosman in recent months, including Abadeen's 100-apartment Honeysuckle Garden redevelopment on Military Road and several other developments across Awaba Street, Redan Street and Muston Street from the likes of Time &amp; Place, HELM and Prosker Property.

&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Time &amp; Place to take on Mosman apartment market</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-abadeen-plans-100-apartments-on-former-honeysuckle-garden-site-in-mosman">First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Another major apartment proposal signals Mosman's development boom

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>
Kim Cannon, CEO of non-bank lender FirstMac, says the sector is “returning from the abyss” following its decision to take on the major banks with an online mortgage product.
Cannon expects as slow recovery for the non-bank sector, but believes things have turned around.
“It’s getting better every day,” Cannon says. “Pricing [of securitisations bonds] was the issue during the GFC crisis. But this has come back, though investors remain domestic-based.
Cannon heads to Brussels next week to attend the European Securitisation forum and “see what the mood is like” from overseas investors.
Brisbane-based FirstMac is offering mortgages through its loans.com.au brand.
Cannon told Property Observer he had been holding onto the brand for the last 13 years waiting for the right moment to offer it to the market.
“We have been waiting for right time, when we believe people will transact online. Since the emergence of the iPad and iPhone, people have become more dependent on the internet to do their shopping and product comparisons,” he says.
Cannon says mortgage brokers’ “love affair with the major banks” had pushed FirstMac to pursue an online route.
Research carried out by FirstMac has discovered that its target market for the product is not Gen Y borrowers, but 40- to 50-year-olds. “It’s quite the opposite of what we thought,” he says.
Recently, fellow non-bank lender Pepper Home Loans, predominantly a specialist lender, snapped up GE Money’s $5 billion loan book. The company will use the acquisition to move into the prime residential space.
Loans.com.au’s Dream Loan express is currently offered at a discounted rate of 6.58%, just lower than NAB’s UBank standard variable, available at 6.59%.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Non-bank lenders hitting their stride

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/EllenandPortia]}
 
Former Geelong girl Portia De Rossi and her wife, talk show queen Ellen DeGeneres, are certainly not wedded to the past. The couple are putting their Beverly Hills compound up for sale for a reported $60 million. They bought the 840-square-metre main house of the property for $29 million in 2007 and were married in the backyard in August 2008. The couple have purchased adjoining properties and converted them to staff quarters and guest houses. The house has a 10-car garage, a sunroom with barbecue and wood-burning oven and canyon views. The house is being sold by <a href="https://www.weahomes.com/" target="_blank">Westside Estate Agency</a>.
{module 238}
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Portia de Rossi and Ellen DeGeneres' house for sale

<html><body>
Property group Peet has bought a half-stake in a $90 million mixed residential and commercial development in Flagstone City, in south-east Queensland, The Australian has reported. Industry super fund MTAA super sold the 50% share in the 1244-hectare Flagstone West development for $45 million. The development is next to an existing MTAA development in Flagstone East, which has infrastructure, services and about 3500 residents. When Flagstone West is completed it is expected to be worth $3.5 billion, and the area has been identified by the Queensland Government as an urban development area.
Eagle Street swoops away with architecture award One One One Eagle Street in Brisbane’s CBD has taken out the award for Australia’s best office architecture project at the Asia Pacific International Commercial Property Awards in Shanghai, according to The Australian. The 54-storey building, built by GPT Group for $630 million, is 40% leased, including a 10-year lease from accounting firm Ernst&amp;Young for the top five floors.
Suncorp’s shining HQ tender attracting plenty of bidders Insurance and banking company Suncorp is having no trouble finding a developer to build its flagship Brisbane office tower, with more than 25 bidders entering proposals. “We have already reduced the list and advised some of the developers that we will not progress to the next stage,” Suncorp executive general manager of real estate Peter Afflek told The Australian Financial Review. The Suncorp building, which will be between 27,000 and 30,000 square metres, will be the largest office building in Brisbane for several years and shows that developers are eager to get back into the market after years of falling commercial prices.
Gated community up for sale Ray White is selling a 39-lot gated community in Carbrook, south-east Queensland, on behalf of a mortgagee. The development, which is 30km from Brisbane CBD, had 95% of civil works completed. Ray White will auction the property at 11am on Wednesday, June 15.
</body></html>

IN BRIEF: Peet invests $45 million in Queensland

<html><body>
Building figure approvals for April put out by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have added more gloom to Tasmania’s property woes, with the Master Builders Association describing the market as “horrific”.
Total dwelling approvals in Tasmania on a seasonally adjusted basis fell 8.7% in April, according to figures put out by the ABS. This is more than six times higher than the national average, which was -1.3% for the month of April. The national average for dwelling approvals rose 8.6% in the previous month.
In absolute terms, dwelling approvals slumped 29% in Tasmania. Master Builders Tasmania executive director Michael Kerschbaum told <a target="_blank" title="The Mercury" href="https://www.themercury.com.au/article/2011/06/01/234465_real-estate-news">The Mercury</a> this was a “horrific” result.
The latest data heaps more gloom on the embattled state, after the latest RP Data-Rismark report revealed that the value of Hobart homes fell by 2% to a median price of $315,000 in the three months to April.
According to hotspotting.com.au’s Terry Ryder, Hobart is the capital city market with the weakest prospects. “The state economy and population growth are weak, and the political situation is unhelpful,” Ryder says. “The market is likely to fall further.”
Louis Christopher, property analyst and director of SQM research, says Hobart is currently in a downswing, with stock levels on the rise. However, he does not expect dramatic price drops due to the fact that “incomes to house prices appear to be fair”.
Not only is new home construction falling, but the quality of homes being built has been called into question following a <a target="_blank" title="Sunday Tasmanian" href="https://www.themercury.com.au/article/2009/06/03/77235_tasmania-news">Sunday Tasmanian</a> investigation that revealed that new-home owners were falling prey to shonky builders using false accreditation details and were being left with defective and incomplete houses.
According to the newspaper, builders have been "shopping out" their licences to unregistered tradesmen for up to $25,000.
</body></html>

Slump in building approvals adds to Tasmania's property woes

<html><body>
Queensland leisure resorts that are able to tap into the MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and events) market stand a better chance of weathering the current tough conditions, one expert has said.
In the wake of the collapse of the Couran Cove resort on Stradbroke Island, Jones Lang LaSalle senior vice-president of strategic advisory Julian Whiston says resorts that are reliant on the leisure demand are being more profoundly affected by current spending trends and the strong Australian dollar than those that cater to the MICE market.
“When consumer spending is down, they are the first to feel it,” he says, adding that the strong Aussie dollar has created a two-fold problem for Queensland: overseas tourists are less likely to come to Australia because of expense, and Australians are increasingly holidaying abroad because overseas trips have become more affordable.
Whiston says this assessment would hold broadly for the Australian leisure resort market. However, different markets have different sources of demand.
”Some need leisure more than others. Cities that have benefited from resources are not as dependent on leisure,” Whiston says.
Whiston says city hotels, such as those in the Brisbane CBD, are trading well due to an increase in corporate demand.
“Business events have come back quite strongly in Brisbane since the floods,” Whiston tells Property Observer.
His comments come as Couran Cove liquidators Will Colwell and Tim Michael from Ferrier Hodgson seek a buyer for the collapsed resort.
 Trevor Weinert of Colliers International has been appointed to sell the real-estate assets and rights of the resort.
 Up for sale are 158 strata-titled accommodation units (out of a total of 352 units in the resort). These range from waterfront hotel-style rooms to four-bedroom villas and “eco lodges”.
 The resort is also selling multiple parcels of land with existing development approvals, 14.5 hectares of development land, 2,168 square metres of freehold, three waterfront parcels totalling 5,515 square metres within the Lagoon Lodge precinct and rights to the resort’s facilities and features. These include four food and beverage outlets, conference facilities, a 77-berth marina with an additional 25 jetties, a day spa and an ocean-front surf club. The resort also provides access to 22 kilometres of surf beach.
Third-party unit owners continue to have access and use of their units, as well as ongoing access to “certain resort facilities and be able to privately let their units”.
</body></html>

Queensland resorts need to widen their focus: Expert

<html><body>
To access free suburb snapshots from <a class="myrpdata_logo" href="https://www.myrpdata.com" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/myrpdata.png" alt="My RP Data"></a> click on your state
{module 235}
</body></html>

colby-FeFJZHb9yk

Data Map

<html><body>
Figures put out by RP Data and Rismark showing that capital dwelling values in Darwin increased by 2.4% in April should not be taken as a sign the market has rebounded, according to SQM founder Louis Christopher.
Christopher told Property Observer he does not trust monthly numbers and will wait to see Australian Bureau of Statistics and Australian Property Monitors quarterly figures.
However, his view of Darwin is that the market remains weak, with residents susceptible to interest rate rises given current house price levels.
“I don’t believe this is a turnaround,” he says. “The indicators we have say Darwin is susceptible to a correction.”
Christopher bases his bearish outlook on high stock levels and a rapid increase of stock on the market.
The average price of a house in Darwin is $470,000 – more expensive than Brisbane ($449,000) and Adelaide ($400,000) and not far off Perth ($481,000).
According to RP Data?Rismark Hedonic Home Value Index, Darwin, Sydney (0.3%) and Canberra (1.4%) were the only capital cities to record positive capital growth figures in April. Perth suffered the biggest monthly drop of -1.8%.
Hotspotting.com.au director Terry Ryder says that after five or six strong years, Darwin’s market has finally paused and there is evidence of price decline. “Recovery will be swift, however, once major gas projects move into the construction phase,” he says.
</body></html>

Darwin outlook gloomy despite temporary rise: Christopher

<html><body>
Charter Hall property group could lose up to 15% of its operating earnings if US hedge fund investors in the company’s Office Real Estate Investment Trust are successful in their attempt to remove Charter Hall as the trust’s responsible entity, according to the Australian Financial Review. US-based funds Orange Capital, Luxor Capital and Point Lobos Capital own 18.2% of the office REIT’s stock and plan to hold a unit-holder meeting to remove Charter Hall as the responsible entity. In order for the deal to go ahead, 50% of unit-holders would have to vote in favour of removing Charter Hall.
JPG to pay creditors 4 cents on dollar Johnson Property Group, one of the the largest property developer in New South Wales, will come out of voluntary administration and pay its unsecured creditors four cents on the dollar, the AustralianFinancial Review reports. The troubled property developer owes about $150 million to creditors including the Seventh Day Adventist Church, who put up to $70 million into JPG. The second-largest creditor after the church is St George Bank. JPG was responsible for much of the greenfield development in NSW, and founder Keith Johnson has slammed high state levies and the slow pace of the state’s planning process for JPG’s fall.
Bourke Street to sparkle with SwarovskiCrystal retailer Swarovski has signed a lease of more than $1 million for 280 square metres on Bourke Street Mall in Melbourne’s CBD. The luxury retailer hopes to leave its current Elizabeth Street premises and move into the shop at 276-278 Bourke Street by November, according to the Australian Financial Review. Swarovski joins a growing number of luxury retailers moving into Melbourne’s central shopping strip, including Spanish clothing store Zara and shirt retailer Thomas Pink.
US house prices hit new low US house prices have hit a new low, hitting their lowest point since 2002. The S&amp;P/Case Shiller house price index fell by 4.2% in the March quarter and now rests at 33.1% under its peak in July 2006. This is a sharper fall than the 31% fall during the Great Depression, Capital Economics analysts told The Financial Times.
Pool owners without safety certificate in deep waterHome buyers who purchase homes with swimming pools have 90 days to obtain a Pool Safety Certificate or face fines of up to $16,500, according to pool safety inspection organisation The Big Tick. From November 2015 all pool owners, whether the property is recently purchased or not, will have to get the certificate.
</body></html>

IN BRIEF: Charter Hall could lose 15% of earnings

<html><body>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/tools/time-s-up-for-unlicensed-mortgage-brokers/2011063050660">Yesterday</a> we looked at how the mortgage broking industry has consolidated with around a fifth of practitioners leaving the industry.
The consolidation has come about partly in response to the compliance costs associated with new licensing requirements.
Mortgage brokers must pay both an application fee and an annual compliance certificate fee that ranges from $450 to more than $26,000 depending on the type of business and number of loans written a year. 
Besides the fees, brokers must also invest in staff training and have adequate financial resources to meet ASIC requirements
All these requirements are contained in the National Consumer Credit Protection Act, which replaced a patchwork of state laws.
The regulatory transformation and ASIC’s emphasis on compliance puts a greater onus on all individuals engaging in credit activities to keep the borrowers’ best interests at heart.
“You could argue that we’ve always operated that way, but the important thing now is that it is enshrined in legislation,” says Mortgage and Finance Association of Australia chief executive Phil Naylor, who estimates that 40% of borrowers use the services of mortgage brokers to secure a home loan.
 
What’s changed? 
The NCCP Act is 450 pages long, but the biggest single change to consumers is the awkwardly worded “not unsuitable” clause.
Under the new laws, it’s not enough for mortgage brokers to help customers find a loan – they must ensure that the loan is ‘”not unsuitable”. Unsuitable loans include contracts where borrowers are unable to make repayments or can only do so with substantial hardship, or contracts that do not meet a borrower’s requirements or objectives.
As a result, brokers must make reasonable enquiries about a borrower’s financial situation, as well as their requirements and objectives. In addition, they are required to make reasonable efforts to confirm a borrower’s statements.
Using this information, mortgage brokers must then determine if the loan product recommendations are “unsuitable”. If deemed that the credit products are “not unsuitable”, the broker can proceed with the recommendations. A broker must also give customers a copy of the assessment if requested.
“The biggest advantage to borrowers is that onus is not just on the lender, but on the broker as well,” says Tim Brown, CEO of Vow Financial, the fifth-largest mortgage aggregator in Australia.
Strings attached?
Some industry observers argue the legislation tips the scale too far in favour of the consumer, taking away borrowers’ responsibility when it comes to credit contract obligations.
Kym Dalton, principal at mortgage industry consultants SAKS Consulting, believes the act will lead to a more litigious environment, as consumers seek to use it to their advantage.
He charges that borrowers facing mortgage stress will be more inclined to blame lenders and brokers for their situation.
According to Dalton, brokers are “putting too much emphasis on what ASIC will do as a regulator and not looking at the consumer end of it – it’s called the ‘National Consumer Credit Protection Act’ for a reason”, he says.
Some brokers warn access to credit will be increasingly difficult for consumers as lenders struggle to define what “responsible lending” really means.
In a client email, Smartline mortgage broker Kevin Lee stated the “knee-jerk reaction” from lenders to the act has been “nothing short of amazing”.
“Each one has their own interpretation of what responsible lending means, and each has introduced more requirements on you and I. Some institutions have covered it off with a half page of extra questions, whilst others have created literally pages and pages of extra compliance.”
One the biggest casualties of lender caution is low-doc loans, according to national mortgage broker Loan Market, part of the Ray White Group.
The company released research in February that noted low-doc applications have fallen by half – from 10% to just 5% of overall loan lodgments – following the introduction of NCCP regulations.
</body></html>

Mortgage brokers fearful new requirements will be too costly

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/June6sentinel]}
32 Sentinel Court, Raby Bay, Queensland, 4163
Built for Savage Garden musician Daniel Jones, this five-bedroom, six-bathroom house on the outskirts of Brisbane has a private marine, more than 2300 square metres of beach-front property and a five-car garage. It is being sold by<a target="_blank" title="LJ Hooker" href="https://www.ljhooker.com.au/11PVF2S"> LJ Hooker</a> Cleveland agent Tom Banjanin, with an asking price of $8.5 million plus. Jones sold the property in 2007.
{module 238}
</body></html>

Latest Property News

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

Guides

Editor's Picks

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Property News

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

Guides

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News