Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a> has lodged a Development Application for a landmark $120 million precinct set to transform the southern gateway of the much-loved Spit.

Positioned at the most prominent entry point to the iconic peninsula, the project has been designed with a strong focus on architecture, public space, heritage and connectivity, delivering a revitalised parkland setting that invites locals and visitors to engage with the Broadwater.

Central to The Isles proposal is a significantly upgraded public realm, including landscaped open space, a new waterfront café, and a family-friendly park featuring a naval-themed playground, open lawns and improved pedestrian connections.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de83a270-6091-4b26-bed0-86f9248e7f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%201.jpg?VersionId=vt79HlCOwV9F7eLQe9.Z3bv9JGLMaSP2" />

The design retains and celebrates key elements of the site’s history. The training mast from the vacant and degraded naval cadet building, which forms part of a former Navy minesweeper, will be preserved. The existing Navy Memorial will be relocated and upgraded in collaboration with the RSL, allowing it to be publicly accessible for the first time in years. 
&nbsp; 
Heritage-listed Humphreys Boat Shed remnants will remain and be incorporated into the landscape, while the site’s established Norfolk Pines will be retained, reinforcing the area’s character and sense of place. The enhanced parkland will ultimately create a long-term community asset at the entry to The Spit. 
&nbsp; 
The Development Application (DA) lodged with Gold Coast City Council includes 28 waterfront apartments across three levels, ranging in size from 145sqm to 383sqm, designed as a feature landmark within the precinct and complement the public domain.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbf94e00-b56a-47fb-a15d-3d17b0b1ec76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%203.jpg?VersionId=A0vmBNE_KohYJo1EoZcmF5IVW4tT5aDo" /> 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said the project as a whole had been carefully shaped to deliver a meaningful outcome for the wider community, not just future residents. 
&nbsp; 
“This is about more than delivering opulent apartments – it’s about creating a welcoming and memorable gateway to The Spit that people can enjoy every day,” Mr Foote said. 
&nbsp; 
“We’ve worked hard to ensure the public realm is a central part of the project, from the landscaped parklands and family-friendly spaces through to the preservation and celebration of important local heritage.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="443bbde5-8221-45f8-a549-dad2623df20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%204.jpg?VersionId=iUl6nc.sHkjMdo_1RigwbwUz_celHJ3H" /> 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, The Isles adopts a considered subtropical approach, with the building form shaped to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and views to the Broadwater and surrounding parklands. 
&nbsp; 
Architect Rafael Contreras said the design responded directly to its unique coastal setting. 
&nbsp; 
“Rather than a typical built form, the architecture has been shaped by performance and experience – from optimising outlook and privacy to creating a strong connection to landscape and climate,” Mr Contreras said. 
&nbsp; 
“A central landscaped courtyard allows light, air and greenery to permeate the building, while the articulated façade introduces movement and rhythm inspired by the Broadwater.

“The Isles will create a place where people can gather, relax and connect with the water, while also delivering a refined residential product that responds to its unique setting.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1089570d-1120-4302-9900-fb9f75c75c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%205.jpg?VersionId=pl9qmKZNbaL3A7XjmD7sjhLwmXaqzzLZ" /> 
&nbsp; 
The DA relates to the residential and public realm components, with a proposed boutique marina to be progressed as part of a future stage, subject to separate approvals. 
&nbsp; 
The Isles is being delivered under The Spit Master Plan, a collaborative vision to create a new residential, tourism, leisure, natural environment and cultural heritage hub on the iconic and much-loved peninsula.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects has an established track record delivering premium residential projects across the Gold Coast, including The Monaco at Main Beach and Cabana at Palm Beach. 
&nbsp; 
Sales for The Isles are expected to commence in coming months from an on-site display suite, with construction targeted to begin later this year, subject to approvals.

Joel Robinson

Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit

The Federal Government’s sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could trigger an unintended consequence: a surge of investor demand into the new and off the plan apartment sector.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has framed the reforms as a way to improve housing affordability and rebalance the tax system, the carve-outs for newly built housing are already positioning off the plan apartments as one of the few remaining tax-effective property investment plays.

Under the changes handed down in the Federal Budget, investors purchasing established properties after budget night will no longer be able to access negative gearing benefits. The Government will also replace the long-standing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-indexation model and introduce a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains from July 2027.

However, there is a major exemption.

Investors buying new builds, including off the plan apartments, will still be eligible for negative gearing and will be able to choose between retaining the current 50 per cent CGT discount or adopting the new indexed model.

That distinction is expected to reshape investor behaviour almost immediately.

For years, established housing has dominated investor purchases because of its perceived lower risk, immediate rental returns and stronger historical capital growth. But with the tax advantages now heavily skewed toward new housing supply, the economics are changing rapidly.

The Federal Government has been explicit about its intent.

“The housing market and tax system are broken,” Chalmers said ahead of the Budget, arguing that existing concessions were disproportionately rewarding speculation rather than supporting housing supply.

The Government says the reforms are designed to encourage investment into new housing rather than established stock, a move aimed at increasing supply during a prolonged housing shortage.

According to the official Budget papers, limiting negative gearing to newly built homes is intended to “better align tax incentives with housing supply objectives.”

For the apartment development sector, particularly the off the plan market, the changes could become one of the strongest investor tailwinds in years.

Developers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have spent the past two years battling elevated construction costs, higher interest rates and subdued investor confidence. Many projects have struggled to secure sufficient pre-sales to commence construction, particularly in markets heavily reliant on investor demand.

The Budget changes may now alter that equation.

Investors seeking tax-effective property exposure will increasingly find themselves funnelled toward newly built apartments simply because established dwellings no longer offer the same benefits.

Commonwealth Bank described the reforms as one of the most significant shifts to residential property investment settings in decades, noting that the package is centred around “limiting negative gearing for residential property to new builds” while replacing the existing CGT framework.

That could have profound implications for the apartment sector.

Off the plan apartments already hold several advantages for investors. Purchasers typically secure a property at today’s price while settlement occurs years later, allowing time for capital growth and reducing the upfront capital burden. Brand-new apartments also generally attract depreciation benefits, lower maintenance costs, and stronger appeal to renters seeking modern amenity.

Now, they may also become one of the only residential property types still offering the full suite of historical tax advantages.

Industry analysts expect investor demand to increasingly migrate toward projects that can clearly demonstrate strong rental demand, transport connectivity and long-term supply constraints.

The shift is likely to be particularly pronounced in apartment markets already underpinned by structural undersupply, including inner Brisbane, the Gold Coast, parts of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and select Melbourne precincts where new apartment commencements have collapsed over recent years.

The reforms also arrive at a time when apartment supply nationally remains critically constrained.

Australia is already struggling to meet the Federal Government’s target of delivering 1.2 million new homes over five years. Construction feasibility pressures have delayed or shelved thousands of apartments across the country, particularly as building costs remain elevated and financing conditions remain tight.

Critics of the Budget changes argue the reforms could reduce overall investor participation in the housing market and place upward pressure on rents by discouraging investment in established housing.

Some economists estimate the measures could reduce housing supply over the longer term if overall investor appetite weakens.

However, the Government is betting that redirecting investor capital into new housing supply will offset those concerns.

“To continue to incentivise construction of new housing, investors building new residential properties will be able to choose either the 50 per cent CGT discount or the new arrangements,” the Budget papers stated.

That wording has been closely watched by the development industry because it effectively positions new apartments as the preferred investment class within residential property.

For off the plan developers, the reforms could become a powerful sales tool.

Projects that have increasingly relied on owner-occupier demand may once again attract investors seeking to preserve the tax advantages still attached to newly built housing before the July 2027 changes take effect.

The reforms are also expected to sharpen the divide between established and new housing markets.

Rather than a broad investor retreat from property altogether, many analysts expect a redistribution of capital toward sectors still supported by Government incentives.

That could create stronger demand for apartment projects in key urban growth corridors and transit-oriented precincts where population growth, migration and rental shortages remain elevated.

The policy direction also aligns with the Government’s broader push toward increasing housing density in established urban areas.

Across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, planning reforms are increasingly encouraging higher-density apartment development around transport infrastructure and activity centres. By maintaining tax incentives for new housing, the Federal Government is effectively reinforcing that agenda from a taxation perspective.

For apartment developers who have spent years navigating subdued investor confidence, the changes may ultimately become the catalyst that reactivates parts of the off the plan market.

While the broader property sector is still digesting the long-term implications of the Budget, one thing is already becoming clear.

The era of investors buying established apartments and houses primarily for tax advantages may be ending.

But for off the plan apartments, the investment story may just be beginning.

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Investors to flood off the plan apartment market?

Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

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?

The national property developer, Podia, is expanding its apartment portfolio in Sydney's Lower North Shore area.

They've just lodged plans for their recently acquired block at 96 Ben Boyd Road, Neutral Bay, seeking to create a six-level, 23-apartment development. It will be the group's second in the area, having previously developed Premier&nbsp;Place nearby.

MHN Design Union have put together the plans which will see the&nbsp;two existing residential buildings revitalized with one modern, architecturally designed flat building, which MHNDUnion said in their architectural statement&nbsp;will complement its surrounding context and maximises amenity to all units.

The building is split between two massing blocks, reducing its perceived bulk and scale from the street. Targeting the owner-occupier, the project will have 19 three-bedroom apartments and just four four-bedroom apartments.

<a href="/new-apartments/wirra-neutral-bay"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1136" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_4.15.03_pm.png" width="1938" /></a> 
A render of the proposed development at 96 Ben Boyd Road, Neutral Bay. Image credit: MHN Design Union.&nbsp;

“The proposal has been designed with careful consideration to the local character of Neutral Bay through its interpretation of materiality and form. The proposal achieves harmony with its neighbouring context in response to the provisions outlined in the North Sydney DCP,” MHN Design Union noted in their submission.

At the ground floor and level one a highly articulated sandstone base provides sheltered alcoves for residents, serving as outdoor spaces with view aspect whilst maintaining visual privacy from Ben Boyd Road.

The upper level apartments are made up of rendered concrete and off-white brickwork with projecting eaves creating a horizontal language whilst scalloped vertical walls achieve visual privacy.

Entering at the Southern boundary along Ben Boyd Road, residents descend into a naturalistic “sandstone gully”, expressed as a raw escarpment with extensive planting.

The ground floor sits below the natural ground level, providing a sense of enclosure and privacy from the street, while the split building form allows indirect light to penetrate throughout the courtyard.

The main courtyard transitions into expansive private courtyards for each residence. Large blocks of raw stone and native plants are dispersed throughout the quarried courtyard, creating an intimate connection to nature and celebrating the site’s geological heritage.

Neutral Bay is a prime inner-city residential area located on the waterfront of the lower North Shore. The suburb has a rich history and has been home to several industrial transformations, as well as being recognised as a site of Indigenous significance.

<a href="/new-apartments/wirra-neutral-bay"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1238" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_4.15.35_pm.png" width="852" /></a> 
A render of inside the proposed development at 96 Ben Boyd Road, Neutral Bay. Image credit: MHN Design Union.

Forsyth Park is situated immediately to the West of the Site, which is within close proximity to Neutral Bay shopping precinct, Neutral Bay Wharf and North Sydney Business District.

With a highpoint of 95-metres above sea level, many sites have views across Sydney Harbour, including landmarks such as the Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanical Gardens. An offering of small shops, community and school facilities are nearby for residents, while sitting just six kilometres from the Sydney CBD.

Podia is also behind a 25-apartment project, coined Premier Place, which is nearing completion just around the corner at 14-20 Premier Street.

The group have a number of projects in the pipeline across the Sydney metro, as well as a 41-apartment project in Byron Bay, with Podia acquiring the hotspot early last year for $18.55 million.

The proposal seeks to revitalise two existing residential buildings with one modern, architecturally designed flat building, which MHN Design Union said in their architectural statement, will complement its surrounding context and maximises amenity to all units.



Podia lodge plans for six-storey Neutral Bay apartment project

The hotel-style amenity at Yarra One has proven to be one of the biggest drivers in purchasers in the completed South Yarra apartment tower.

Designed by renowned architecture firm&nbsp;Fender Katsalidis, the $250 million development boasts a host of hotel-style amenities including a residents dining room, wine cellar, rooftop terrace with barbecue facilities, a gym, yoga room, outdoor spa, sauna and steam room, pet wash and Tesla car share services.

Acting as the grand entrance to Yarra One, the purpose-designed atrium&nbsp;is a public space for the local community that is truly environmentally sustainable. Built to re-establish human connection to the surroundings with its well-planned design and greenery, the atrium also helps reduce urban heat island and wind tunnel effects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=181270]

Yarra One&nbsp;residents will also have access to a 24-hour concierge-style app, where they will be able to book of a number of the services. EcoWorld, in partnership with Scarisbrick International, a Singapore-based company that developed a new concept in luxury retirement living, launched the Lifestyle One app where residents will be offered services including welcoming guests, receiving packages, organising transport or arranging reservations for amenity spaces within the building.

&ldquo;By offering our residents 6-star services 24 hours a day, we aim to further amplify the&nbsp;Yarra One&nbsp;living experience as a beautiful, luxurious home that pampers, comforts, and inspires our residents,&quot; said Yarra One&nbsp;General Manager Jeffrey Ong.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=181272]

The concierge desk is as luxe as the rest of the building, set in the ground-floor&nbsp;lobby which features a marble block sculpted as a reception desk, framed by elegant brass and bronze detailing. The service, which is a monthly subscription fee, brings a different level of service to residents of all ages,&nbsp;<a aria-label="Yarra One - opens in new tab" data-uw-rm-brl="false" data-uw-rm-ext-link="" data-uw-styling-context="true" href="/buildings/yarra-one-16-22-claremont-street-south-yarra" target="_blank" uw-rm-external-link-id="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/yarra-one-16-22-claremont-street-south-yarra$yarraone">Yarra One</a>&nbsp;says Ong..

The dining and library spaces were designed to act as a natural extension of the apartments at&nbsp;Yarra One, created with smoked timber floors and soaring double-height ceilings. Residents will have access to communal spaces including the mezzanine cocktail level, the plush lounge, which is situated around an fireplace, or the lush gardens of the rooftop.

With designated spaces with a focus on wellness and helping residents available at&nbsp;Yarra One, buyers can enjoy convenient fitness and relaxation offerings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3127 project_image_fid=181997]

The gym on level one looks out onto the residents&rsquo; garden, while the yoga and dance studio connects to the private spa terrace.

Adjacent to the lounge and dining room, the wine room is modelled after a finely detailed cigar box.&nbsp;Designed to reflect the prestige of the bottles contained within, the temperature-controlled room features smoked oak floors, timber joinery and bronze accents.

The fully-completed, ready to move in residences still have a selection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments still available, starting from $470,000.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3127]

The $250 million development boasts a host of resort-style amenities including a residents dining room, wine cellar, rooftop terrace, a gym, yoga room, outdoor spa, sauna and steam room, pet wash and Tesla car share services.



The extensive hotel-style facilities at Yarra One, South Yarra

The Malaysia headquartered MRCB International, a property and infrastructure development group who have previously developed land lots in Melbourne, are the latest entrant to the Surfers Paradise apartment market.

They'll be creating a high density tower at 26 Vista Street, with some 280 apartments across a 51-level tower, one of the tallest built in the area in recent times. There will also be six townhouses on offer at the foot of the project,&nbsp;

Local architecture firm DBI has designed the 172-metre tower on the large, already cleared,&nbsp;3,100 sqm amalgamated site, which has street frontages to Vista Street and Thornton Street.

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="890" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.26.47_am.png" width="1676" /></a>

There will be 54 one-bed apartments, that start from 55 sqm, 156 two-beds, which is over 50% of the building, 62 three-bedroom apartments, and just eight four-bedroom apartments, located toward the top of the tower.

The main resident recreation level is on level four, where there will be a cinema, resident's lounge with bar, private dining and kitchen, a meeting room, an a full wellness suite with gym, massage room, steam room, sauna, ice shower, and yoga space.

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="916" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.27.33_am.png" width="1644" /></a>

Outside is a 20 metre lap pool with infinity edge, a spa, and surrounding day beds.

There will be further amenity on the level 51 roof top, with another resident's lounge and a&nbsp;private dining room with kitchen and bar, which is wrapped in&nbsp;outdoor terraces with extensive seating and further dining space.

DBI noted in their submission to the Gold Coast City Council that&nbsp;26 Vista Street is set to deliver a building that combines subtropical principles and bring a new level of coastal elegance to the Gold Coast skyline.

"The design philosophy revolves around the dichotomy of the site, located at the junction between the curvilinear punctuated nature of the river and the linearity of the coastal strip," DBI wrote.

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="892" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.27.01_am.png" width="1660" /></a>

"The triple frontage and dual site access, off Thornton St and primarily Vista St, offers an added level of exposure and fluidity to the site.

"The introduction of elevated terrace houses along on Surfers Paradise Blvd, provides a strong interface to the light rail and a direct response to the city desire to create a strong ‘Urban Ground’."

DBI said the Gold Coast is&nbsp;&nbsp;is formed by a collection of coastal villages defined in extent by the topography of the coast (headlands, groynes, estuaries and coves).

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="908" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.27.14_am.png" width="1650" /></a>

"The common thread of the many years of evolution is the desire to connect with the surf, the beach and the Ocean," DBI added.

"We also have the river to the West and the light rail connection on our doorstep. The site positioning is like a node, a junction between the river side and the Ocean."

"Within walking distance of everything Surfers has to offer, from the iconic beach to acclaimed restaurants, 26 Vista Street presents a rare opportunity for those in pursuit of lifestyle, a coastal destination and an address."

The town planning report by Urbis suggested the&nbsp;architecture design across the tower is modern and distinct, using a range of materials and orientation to the east to take advantage of the proximity to the ocean and access to sunlight and breezes.

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="908" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.27.08_am.png" width="1650" /></a>

"The significant architectural treatment and articulation present throughout each level contributes greatly to the quality and appropriateness of the proposed development.

"The proposed development includes generous private and communal open space areas. Private open space is delivered in the form of balconies for each apartment. These spaces are designed to maximise access and privacy, as well as amenity and views."

MRCB advised the Malaysian stock exchange last year that they had secured the site for $17 million, with a gross development value of nearly $300 million.

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="910" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-05-03_at_11.27.24_am.png" width="1638" /></a>

"The development is targeted to commence in the first quarter of 2023 and to be completed in 2025, subject to receipt of all development consents," the presentation read.

<h2>About the developer</h2>

MRCB International is a wholly owned subsidiary of MRCB Malaysia, a company listed on the Malaysian stock exchange.

It is&nbsp;a&nbsp;leader in&nbsp;Transit Oriented Development,&nbsp;property and construction&nbsp;and&nbsp;has been a key player in the development of&nbsp;Malaysia’s&nbsp;buildings&nbsp;and infrastructure since its listing on&nbsp;the&nbsp;Malaysian Stock Exchange in 1971.

They've previously created 1060 Carnegie, an apartment development in Melbourne, and were awarded a&nbsp;Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) project in Auckland, scheduled to begin in 2024.

Local architecture firm DBI has designed the 172-metre tower on the large, already cleared, 3,100 sqm amalgamated site, which has street frontages to Vista Street and Thornton Street.

First look: Malaysian developer to build giant Surfers Paradise apartment tower

The Brisbane unit market is showing consistent growth,&nbsp;according to CoreLogic&#39;s Monthly Hedonic Home Value Index.

Values jumped 1.4%, following the 1.6% gains in March and 1.5%&nbsp;over February. Values are now 6% up over 2022 already, well on their way to matching the 14.4% growth over 2021.

The quarterly performance, up 4.6%, is the highest in the country for the unit market.

The median apartment value in Brisbane is now $488,393. At the start of 2021, it was just over $390,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109830 project_image_fid=184164]

Following the RBA&#39;s first interest rate rise in nearly 12 years at the May meeting,&nbsp;the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) said the&nbsp;resilient Queensland market the higher rate forecasts.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said given the level of inflation, this may not be the last interest rate rise we see, but it was important to recognise that many market conditions and external factors remain favourable in Queensland.

&ldquo;We know that consumer confidence is key, and this move by the RBA will certainly make people stop and think more carefully about how much they are prepared to borrow, because it&rsquo;s a timely reminder that interest rates can and do go up,&rdquo; she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13276 project_image_fid=80720]

&ldquo;While on the face of it, it&rsquo;s not an insignificant rise, in the grand scheme of things interest rates have been at historic lows for some time and are still very low.

&ldquo;This is also where our relative affordability is an advantage, as our average home loan rate is much lower than in capital cities like Sydney and Melbourne, and so the impact will be felt less here.

&ldquo;We remain confident in the resilience of the Queensland market because the need and demand for housing is irrespective, and an interest rate rise simply causes people to rethink what they are prepared to spend and how big of a loan they are prepared to enter into.&quot;

Total advertised inventory of both houses and apartments&nbsp;is more than 20 per cent below levels from a year ago in Brisbane, and around 40 per cent lower than the previous five-year average.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27815 project_image_fid=192735]

The median apartment value in Brisbane is now $488,393. At the start of 2021, it was just over $390,000

Brisbane apartment market insights: What happened over April

National integrated property developer and investor, Cbus Property has announced the appointment of Hutchinson Builders on the next phase of works on its residential tower on the Brisbane CBD riverfront, 443 Queen St.

They&#39;ll be taking over from the collapsed builder Probuild, who were in the final stages of the construction process before their demise.

The announcement marks Cbus Property&rsquo;s third collaboration with Australia&rsquo;s largest privately owned builder, following appointments on the 205 North Quay commercial office tower in Brisbane, which is currently under construction, and The Langston Epping, a recently completed three-tower residential development in Sydney&rsquo;s north west.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6226 project_image_fid=37089]

Cbus Property&rsquo;s Chief Executive Officer, Adrian Pozzo, said the business was again &ldquo;proud to partner with Hutchies&rdquo;.

&ldquo;We are confident the appointment of Hutchinson Builders, one of Australia&rsquo;s most renowned and reliable builders, will deliver this iconic residential tower for Brisbane&rsquo;s city skyline to the highest possible standard,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;As communicated to our purchasers, since commencing preliminary works on site three weeks ago, Cbus Property, together with Hutchinson Builders, continues to finalise subcontractor negotiations and prepare a revised construction programme. Once finalised, we will provide an update to purchasers with a more definitive completion timeline.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6226 project_image_fid=37148]

Hutchinson Builders&rsquo; Director, Russell Fryer, confirmed that the contractor was already on site at 443 Queen St, with initial works underway.

&ldquo;We have a long and proud history delivering similar premium high-rise residential projects across Australia,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;We have a handpicked team that has recently completed a five-star hotel, The Langham Gold Coast, demonstrating our ability to achieve the high-quality outcomes expected for 443 Queen St, and we are working closely with Cbus Property, the consultants, subcontractors and suppliers to successfully complete this landmark building for Brisbane.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6226 project_image_fid=37091]

Pozzo said that despite the delays to construction, Cbus Property remained focused on ensuring the successful completion of 443 Queen St and delivering one of the highest-quality residential buildings to be developed in the area.

&ldquo;We continue to reassure purchasers that this unique residential development is nearing completion, and that we will deliver a landmark building with the utmost attention to detail and finish,&rdquo; he said.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6226]

Hutchinson Builders’ takeover of works from Probuild recommences the project’s final stages. 

Hutchinson's take over Probuild construction of Cbus Property's Brisbane apartment tower, 443 Queen St

Melbourne&#39;s unit market has continued to hold firm despite a cooling off in the house market.

CoreLogic&rsquo;s national Home Value Index pegged the Melbourne-wide apartment growth at 0.4% over April, the third consecutive month growth in the unit market has outstripped growth in the house market.

The Melbourne unit market (which incorporates both units and townhouses), is now 0.2% since the start of 2022, after posting 0.2% growth across March and 0.1% in Feb. Values started the year poorly, going backwards -0.4% in January.

The median apartment value in Melbourne is now $630,671.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177634]

The growth in unit values is a stark contrast to the house market, which is sliding due to the affordability factors brought to more of a head following the RBA&#39;s interest rate hike in May, and expectation of further rate hikes.

Houses Melbourne-wide, on average, have remained flat since the start of 2022, but that was mainly due to a strong start in January. The rolling quarterly growth is now -0.5% after a 0.2% decline across April, CoreLogic data found.&nbsp;

CoreLogic&rsquo;s Research Director Tim Lawless&nbsp;says the weakening state of the market has taken the rolling quarterly trend into negative territory across Melbourne for the first time since these cities were in the midst of extended lockdowns in mid-to-late 2020.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2806 project_image_fid=175415]

Advertised inventory, at a national level, is tracking almost 30 per cent below the previous five-year average however, in weaker markets like Melbourne, advertised supply levels have normalised, with listings in Melbourne 8.2%&nbsp;higher.

Higher stock levels across these markets can be explained by an above average flow of new listings coming on the market in combination with a drop in buyer demand

&ldquo;With higher inventory levels and less competition, buyers are gradually moving back into the driver&rsquo;s seat. That means more time to deliberate on their purchase decisions and negotiate on price,&rdquo; Lawless says.

Rental markets are also showing multi-speed conditions, with most of the capital cities experiencing an upward trend in rental growth in 2022. Nationally, rents were up 2.7% over the three months to April, taking the annual change in national rents to 9.0%. A year ago, the annual change in national rents was 4.9 per cent. Based on the annual change, house rents (+9.1 per cent) are rising faster than unit rents (+8.7 per cent), however this trend is changing sharply as demand for unit rentals increases.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=253 project_image_fid=52822]

&ldquo;On a rolling quarterly basis, we are now seeing unit rents rising faster than house rents especially in Melbourne where rental conditions across the unit sector were previously much softer,&rdquo; Lawless says.

&ldquo;The shift in rental demand towards units reflects both rental affordability pressures, which are deflecting more demand towards the &lsquo;cheaper&rsquo; unit sector, and the return of overseas migrants and visitors. Rental demand from overseas arrivals tends to skew towards inner city and higher density precincts.&rdquo;

In Melbourne, unit rents are 3.6 per cent higher over the past three months compared with a 1.2 per cent rise in house rents. Higher yields and long-term prospects for capital growth could see investors comprising a larger portion of housing market activity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3281 project_image_fid=46048]

With the cash rate set to move through a rapid tightening cycle, CoreLogic expect this trend towards a gradual softening in the growth rate will become more pronounced over the coming months, before the national index starts to trend lower.

&ldquo;Although we are expecting the housing market to move into a downturn through the second half of the year, it is important to remember the context of the recent growth phase,&rdquo; he says.

Melbourne's unit market has continued to hold firm despite a cooling off in the house market


Melbourne apartment market insights: What happened over April

Bellevue Queensland, the Brisbane-based, family-ran&nbsp;construction and development firm,&nbsp;have lodged plans for their next local project.

Dubbed Sofia, on a rare&nbsp;triple-road fronted&nbsp;amalgamated site at&nbsp;35 Swann Road and&nbsp;5 Central Avenue in the leafy Taringa, will comprise just 20 apartments across the predominantly five-level building. One apartment&nbsp;is considered a sixth storey due to the sloping topography of the land.

The apartments will range from 106 sqm to 123 sqm, each with three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms.

Designed by Hayes Anderson Lynch Architects, residences follow an open plan design in the living, kitchen and dining areas, created with a focus on suiting local downsizes and families.

The building design is heavily modulated through the use and incorporation of large, cantilevered balconies, angled and curved walls, curved vertical aluminium feature screening, chamfered slab projections and full height window and door glazing.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="758" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-04-30_at_12.52.31_pm.png" width="1542" />

With a light pastel palette, planter boxes on balconies with trailing greenery, stepped facades and a stepped roof form, help soften the built form and connect it to the local landscape.

A generously sized communal rooftop open space has been devised, designed with both passive and active recreational opportunities. Crowning Sofia will be a pool, barbecue facilities, a dining table and a lounge seating area. The area will be landscaped through raised planter beds located along the Swann Rd and Central Ave frontages.

Located within an urban inner-city pocket of Brisbane, the residences sit less than six-kilometres south-west of Brisbane’s CBD. Residents will be well serviced by nearby public transport, namely Taringa Railway Station and bus stops along both Swann Road and Moggill Road. Sofia also falls within close proximity to a number of major shopping centres, urban services, parks, university and schools.

Bellevue has a number of other projects in the pipeline, with residences, Elba in West End and, Atlas in Lutwyche set to launch soon, as well as Element Residences,&nbsp;an exclusive collection of whole-floor apartments on one of the last remaining spaces along East Brisbane’s riverside promenade.

That will&nbsp;comprise just five four-bedroom apartments&nbsp;and one five-bedroom penthouse.

Designed by Hayes Anderson Lynch Architects, residences follow an open plan design in the living, kitchen and dining areas, created with a focus on suiting local downsizes and families.



First look: Bellevue Queensland lodge plans Taringa apartment project, Sofia

A private local developer is set to develop&nbsp;a rare new luxury low-rise apartment block in the Gold Coast&#39;s Miami.

The boutique residential development, dubbed SANA, at 5-7 Hythe Street, sits on an amalgamated double block totalling 974 sqm, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The developers, a collection of local business people and entrepreneurs, engaged Plus Architecture to create to the four-storey building, which will home just 12 apartments.

<a href="/new-apartments/sana-5-hythe-street-miami-qld-4220"><img alt="" height="1224" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-04-29_at_2.12.14_pm.png" width="1978" /></a> 
A render of the proposed development at 5-7 Hythe Street, Miami. Image credit: Plus Architecture&nbsp;&nbsp;

SANA has been conceived as a sophisticated, modern take on a surf shack by Plus, who created a number of different configurations, including two beach homes across the ground level, each with three bedrooms.

Four apartments will feature across both levels one and two, with Sana topping out with two penthouse apartments on level three, with each apartment is arranged to maximise views to the Miami coastline and beyond.

Crowning the development, the rooftop will have a communal pool deck as well as two private terraces, each with their own pool.

<a href="/new-apartments/sana-5-hythe-street-miami-qld-4220"><img alt="" height="1194" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-04-29_at_2.12.29_pm.png" width="2084" /></a> 
A render of the proposed development at 5-7 Hythe Street, Miami. Image credit: Plus Architecture&nbsp;&nbsp;

Plus noted in their submission to the local council that SANA is a boutique development that celebrates the relaxed lifestyle of Miami, Gold Coast.

&quot;A paired back material palette consisting of off-form concrete, aluminium &amp; timber look battens provides an honest yet refined architectural form, that rhythmically follows its surrounding landscapes.

&quot;At a pedestrian scale, landscaping softens the built form and plays background to the raw material palette.

&quot;Fixed screening to all elevations further plays on the soft architectural language, as well as providing appropriate privacy + solar shading.&quot;

Several high frequency bus routes service the area, as well as a number of established active transport routes, with dedicated cyclist and pedestrian facilities along Marine Parade connecting the site to Broadbeach, Mermaid Beach and other surrounding suburbs. Sana residents will also benefit from the future Miami Light Rail Station.

Conceived as a sophisticated surf shack by Plus Architecture, the four-storey building is made up of 12 residences in total.

First look: Miami set for rare new apartment development, SANA

Iris Capital’s transformation of central Broadbeach has moved a step closer with the Gold Coast Council giving development approval for its $800 million V&amp;A apartments on the site of the Niecon Plaza.

Iris Capital’s CEO Sam Arnaout said the decision&nbsp;would pave the way for an anticipated construction start later this year.

“We’re absolutely delighted that the Gold Coast Council has seen the vision of V&amp;A and how it will play an enormous role in transforming Broadbeach,” said Arnaout.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=178909]

“We were very eager to get the approval to meet our timelines for delivery and we’re now focussing our attention on sales and marketing with the view of a construction start later this year.”

Taking its name from Broadbeach streets, Victoria and Albert, the project will comprise 398 apartments over two towers of 40 and 56 storeys, with a subtropical recreational podium, featuring two levels of premium offices and commercial facilities, and a fresh food and dining retail on the street level.

Design firm, DBI Architects, has curated a design referencing the coastal environment, moving away from smaller unit types to embrace the growing demand for larger apartments.

“V&amp;A Broadbeach presented a unique opportunity to create a lasting icon for the coastal precinct that can be appreciated by more than just its residents,” said DBI Director Raith Anderson.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184933]

The lower floors will offer a mix of one, two and three-bedroom layouts while the upper residences will offer a mix of three-bedrooms, with both towers topped by sub‐penthouses and penthouses.

“Its design is quintessentially Gold Coast, from its lavish double beach shower and surfboards storages to its cascading subtropical landscaped terraces, V&amp;A is a rare product for those in pursuit of a coastal destination with the lifestyle and cultural variety of a cosmopolitan locale,” Anderson said.&nbsp;

Residents will live among world‐class amenities, with both towers offering an elevated recreational podium with a 25-metre lap pool, a gym, a yoga deck and resident’s lounge as well as kid’s area, a Zen garden, an outdoor dining and barbecue space, all surrounded by lush green landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184934]

Both towers will feature spacious top floor owners-lounges complete with dining, yoga room, and office space, finished with high end, coastal furnishings.

Colliers’ Director Residential David Higgins said the project had been well received by the market and the council approval removed any impediments on the project.

“There is a great air of excitement about what V&amp;A will do to transform central Broadbeach,” said Higgins.

“The council has recognised the significance and merits of V&amp;A, and also acknowledged the incredible role that the project will play in the city’s cosmopolitan heart.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=184936]

“Unlike many of the projects that have been launched in recent years, V&amp;A will bring an air of sophistication to the cosmopolitan heart and provide apartments from which people can walk to everything they need,” he added.

V&amp;A Broadbeach would create the first high end residential, retail and culinary precinct in central Broadbeach since the Oracle towers more than a decade ago.

“Currently Broadbeach has plentiful luxury full-floor and half-floor three-bedroom-plus apartments on the market, but very few offer a choice of one, two and three-bedroom apartments with access to leading luxury amenity”, said Higgins.

“Historically Broadbeach has had a very strong family market and V&amp;A will bring this market right back into the frame. We’ve introduced a mix of product right in the heart of Broadbeach that attracts the family buyer, luxury downsizer and investors looking for solid returns as the Gold Coast grows out of the Covid lockdowns.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=180734]

“The project scores a 10 out of 10 for walkability located in the heart of Broadbeach in walking distance to the light rail, the casino, convention centre, the restaurant precinct and the beach and will bring a new type of residential apartments to the market that we have not seen for some time,” he noted.

Iris Capital,&nbsp;founded and led by entrepreneur Sam Arnaout, has extended its reach over the past decade to become a developer of&nbsp;integrated residential and mixed-use developments.

The company now holds a $5 billion enterprise value, having significantly expanded its footprint over the past year through the acquisition of 17 Ibis hotels from AccorInvest.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=107928]

Design firm DBI Architects has curated a design referencing the coastal environment, moving away from smaller unit types to embrace the growing demand for larger apartments.



Iris Capital get green light for $800 million Victoria & Albert, Broadbeach apartment towers

The leading Sunshine Coast developer, Cube Developments, has achieved a near sell-out success across two of its high-end projects totalling $128 million, as monumental demand for elevated beachfront living continues to sweep through the Sunshine Coast.

Oasis,&nbsp;Cube&#39;s most recent project, saw 70 per cent of residences sold prior to officially hitting the market within a week of its soft launch, totalling close to $50 million.

Oasis is made up of 56 apartments including a lap pool, open air resident&nbsp;dining, gym, outdoor beach shower and lush gardens.

<span id="m_-6939031011704653527m_-4775693149507451560gmail-m_-1572910256152369755gmail-m_6401858372977791536gmail-m_-3717924287056347961m_1034365043048103729gmail-docs-internal-guid-57a38108-7fff-23ea-718e-8948f3630a75">Cube Developments Director Scott Juniper said that buyers have recognised the limited supply of stock and are acting swiftly to avoid missing out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109813 project_image_fid=196624]

&ldquo;Our sales team had 40 appointments booked on the first day of Oasis&rsquo; soft launch, 25 of which sold that very same day,&quot; Juniper said.

&quot;There&rsquo;s been a sense of urgency and we&rsquo;ve certainly had people vying to get a piece of the action.

&ldquo;Buyers are largely locals and those from wider South East Queensland who understand the beauty of this area and the rarity in stock like this, both in its very premium yet simplistic design and the incredible oceanfront vantage on Longboard Walk.

&ldquo;Quietly tucked between Caloundra and Mooloolaba, this location offers connection to the best of the suburb and beyond.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109813 project_image_fid=196622]

Positioned with uninterrupted ocean views on the last remaining beachfront location on Bokarina Beach, Oasis has two-bedroom apartments from $800,000 and three-bedroom apartments from $1 million.

The&nbsp;project also features two-level penthouses that boast secluded rooftop terraces and private plunge pools, starting from $3.2 million.

Juniper said they expected to be sold out within the week.

It comes at the same time that Cube has sold out its Nature by Cube project further up the road in Cotton Tree, with the 12 apartments selling for a combined value of $43 million, including its $7 million penthouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172105]

&ldquo;Nature is an extremely exclusive project given the handful of residences on offer, and is unique to the coast from an architectural and materiality standpoint,&quot; Juniper added.

&quot;The sheer amount of amenity and meticulous attention to detail in the design of each home is what sets it apart in the market.

&ldquo;We want to deliver something that hasn&rsquo;t been experienced before here on the Sunshine Coast, to offer an unparalleled lifestyle, and buyers responded well to this vision.

&ldquo;The strong desire for prestige property is palpable in this region, it&rsquo;s a matter of supply struggling to keep up with demand.&quot;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=109813]

Cube Developments Director Scott Juniper said that buyers have recognised the limited supply of stock and are acting swiftly to avoid missing out


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