A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

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 family-owned Gold Coast developer, Lacey Group, are advancing their plans for their two luxury Gold Coast apartment developments, after securing two quick-time sell-outs.

Having just appointed the leading Queensland construction company Hutchinsons, Lacey Group, headed by director Adam Lacey, are fast-tracking construction for their $35 million The Monroe at Palm Beach, and the $63 million Del Ray apartments at Kirra.

The Monroe all-but&nbsp;sold out in May after just two weeks, while Del Ray didn&#39;t even hit the open market, selling all of its 72 apartments prior to its launch.

&ldquo;We are thrilled with the consecutive sales success of the Monroe and the Del Ray, both of which have been incredibly well received,&rdquo; Adam Lacey, Director of Lacey Group, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89711 project_image_fid=193837] 
The entry of Del Ray at Kirra. Image supplied

&ldquo;Palm Beach and Kirra are arguably two of the hottest beachfront markets on the coast right now, so it&rsquo;s an exciting time to be pioneering the next generation of luxury living on its shores.&rdquo;

Demolition works on both sites has now been completed, with full scale construction scheduled to take off in October.

On the construction partnership, Lacey said&nbsp;Hutchies have a brilliant reputation on the coast for delivering a dynamic portfolio of projects,

&quot;We have full confidence that they will do justice to each project&rsquo;s remarkable design.&quot;

The Del Ray, designed by Plus Architecture, will encompass 72 two and three-bedroom apartments and townhouses, as well as&nbsp;a rooftop infinity pool and terrace, with sweeping&nbsp;views over the ocean, and an exclusive resident&rsquo;s lounge.

Located at 7-11 Miles St, the project is within close proximity to the highly anticipated re-development of the Kirra Beach Hotel, set to offer the bustling Kirra Beach suburb a new entertainment hub and dining pavilion.

The Monroe will sit further south on Palm Beach&#39;s Jefferson Lane dress circle. The project at 124-126 Jefferson Lane will see&nbsp;33 two&nbsp;and three-bedroom apartments created, as well as a townhome and a luxury penthouse. That too will have a 250 sqm rooftop terrace with a swimming pool, fire pit area and views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89711 project_image_fid=193834] 
The Monroe&#39;s luxury rooftop pool. Image supplied

A large portion of purchases within The Monroe came from previous Lacey Group buyers.

Before the recent sell-outs at The Del Ray and The Monroe, Lacey Group had success with&nbsp;Jefferson, also at Palm Beach, and&nbsp;Southbreak in Kirra.

The Monroe all-but sold out in May after just two weeks, while Del Ray didn't even hit the open market, selling all of its 72 apartments prior to its launch

Lacey Group appoint Hutchinson's to build sold-out Gold Coast apartment developments The Monroe and Del Ray

The banking regulator has announced tougher serviceability tests for home loans in a move they described as "targeted and judicious."

From the end of October, banks will have to test whether new borrowers can still afford their mortgage repayments if home loan interest rates rose to be 3 percentage points above their current rate.

The current serviceability test is 2.5 per cent.

APRA advised a 50 basis points increase in the serviceability buffer will reduce maximum borrowing capacity for the typical borrower by around 5 per cent. 

"APRA is not seeking to target the level of housing prices," it advised.

"Rather, APRA’s objective is to ensure that mortgage lending is conducted on a prudent basis, and that borrowers are well-equipped to service their debts under a range of scenarios."

APRA chairman Wayne Byres said the move was intended to head off emerging risks noting "growing financial stability risks from residential mortgage lending."

“While the banking system is well capitalised and lending standards overall have held up, increases in the share of heavily indebted borrowers, and leverage in the household sector more broadly, mean that medium-term risks to financial stability are building," Byres noted.

“More than one in five new loans approved in the June quarter were at more than six times the borrowers’ income,” Mr Byres said.

APRA said the rule change was necessary because there had been a significant increase in people borrowing large amounts.

“Housing credit growth is increasingly being driven by lending to more marginal and highly indebted borrowers," it said.

“In the June quarter 2021, for example, more than 20 per cent of ADIs’ new lending was to borrowers that had borrowed more than six times their pre-tax income.

“This is high by both historical and international standards, and without action, the share is likely to increase further."

APRA expects the impact of a higher serviceability buffer to be larger on investors than owner-occupiers as investors tend to borrow at higher levels of leverage.

It noted the interest rate serviceability buffer was the most appropriate tool to use. 

"It acts as a cap on leverage, is relatively easy to implement, and will not have any impact on mortgage interest rates. 

"APRA chose not to use an interest rate floor as a means of achieving a similar effect.

"It would also be relatively easy to implement and would not impact mortgage pricing, but would be more restrictive on owner-occupiers and have a lesser impact on investors.

"A limit on the extent of high debt-to-income borrowing would precisely target more highly indebted borrowers. 

"Compared to raising the interest rate buffer, however, limits would be more operationally complex to deploy consistently, and may lead to higher interest rates for some borrowers as lenders effectively seek to ration credit to this cohort.

"On balance, it was considered raising the interest rate buffer was the preferred response on this occasion.

"It does not rule out that the other measures might be used in the future.," APRA advised.

The increase in the interest rate buffer applies to all new borrowers, with APRA saying the impact investors more than owner-occupiers

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

APRA tightens home lending rules

Demand for building block land in all Melbourne's catchment areas remains strong, according to Red23's managing director, Terry Portelli,

Land availability is anticipated to slow with limited land releases expected for the remainder of 2021, the Red23 report noted.

The median land price increased by 1% in August to $332,400 and by 4% on 12 months ago, according to the residential project sales and marketing company's monthly update. 

The big price movements came in with Whittlesea and Melton while Casey’s median land price has fluctuated up and down over the last 3 months due to stock availability.

"As prices continue to increase in the established and new homes market, affordability has again become an issue. 

"Presently, we are experiencing an increase in investors as they are encouraged by rising prices and the prospect of capital gains, while owner occupiers are responding to deteriorating affordability. 

"Deteriorating affordability in the middle ring areas will see many families move further out to greenfield and regional areas or accept living in a smaller townhouse or apartment. 

"For the moment, detached houses are preferred over medium density living due to the pandemic, however, this trend may soon come to an end."

The reported noted land sizes have decreased by 3% in Metropolitan Melbourne and 17% in Greater Geelong in the last 24 months as prices increase. 

The Metropolitan Melbourne median land size is currently 388sqm and 400sqm in Greater Geelong. 

"A traditional 400sqm land size has been superseded by a 350sqm lot," the October market report by the greenfield land sales specialist noted.

Blocks which are 350sqm are most affordable in Mitchell Shire with an entry price of $245,000 followed by Melton South at $272,000. 

Wyndham offers this block size at Mambourin for an affordable price of $283,000. 

In established areas such as Point Cook, this size block is $469,000 and in Cranbourne, it is $366,000. 

Comparing these lot prices to the same time in 2019, it was $390,000 in Point Cook and $330,000 in Cranbourne. In 2019, it was the most affordable in Strathulloh at $190,000.

Land sizes have decreased by 3% in the metropolitan Melbourne catchment

Investors seeking out land for home building in Melbourne catchment: Red23

Clyde's future 26-hectare town centre site is tipped to fetch more than $60 million, after being listed by National Pacific Properties, the development arm of home builder Burbank Group.

The site at 1625 Ballast Road, next to the future Clyde train station, has been listed through Peter Sagar of LAWD and Justin Dowers of Stonebridge.

It adjoins NPP’s Eliston housing estate, an 97ha masterplanned community which will be home to about 2730 residents when completed in about 2023.

The town centre has development approval for 40,000 to 50,000 square metres of retail space and 40,000 to 50,000 square metres of commercial office space.

Set within one of the largest in Melbourne’s growth corridors, NPP general manager Tom Trevaskis the site had been identified as a “major activity centre” by the Victorian government.

The south-east growth corridor, set about 50 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, saw around 850 lot sales across some 24 housing estates in July and August, according to land sales specialist Core Projects, on the back of strong demand for detached housing and a relatively constrained future land supply.

Trevaskis said accelerated development of adjoining land provided a ready-made retail catchment for the future town centre.

The Clyde town centre was being taken to market as NPP intend to focus on "ramping up" its real estate development business, and not have a strategy to develop and hold retail centres.

Burbank Group was founded as a Melbourne home builder in 1983 by stepbrothers Eddie Sanfilippo and Eddie Puhar.

Led by Jarrod Sanfilippo, the late Mr Sanfilippo’s son, the company has since expanded into Queensland, NSW, ACT and South Australia.

NPP was formed in 2005 as a land developer.


It has been listed by National Pacific Properties, the development arm of home builder Burbank Group

Clyde's future town centre development site listed at Eliston estate

The high-end Melbourne developer, PB &amp; Co., has secured approval from the City of Melbourne Council to convert the historic East Melbourne home Eblana in to a $35 million luxury residential apartment development.

Eblana, the former home of the Young &amp; Jackson publican, Thomas Jackson, will become three full floor apartments and a double-storey penthouse designed by Inhaus Design, who will be retaining and restoring its original built form.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108801]

The Italianate-style terrace at&nbsp;140-142 Jolimont Road was built in the 1800s and was used as the head office for the postmaster general, after the Commonwealth bought it in 1925.

PB &amp; Co., headed by developer Michael Pesochinsky and Edward Bun, has been working with&nbsp;the Melbourne City Council and local objectors to put together an appropriate development.

"The core origins and fabric of Eblana speak to Melbourne's grand era in the late 1800s, which is complemented by rich history and exquisite colonial architecture of James Gall," Bragilevsky&nbsp;said.

"We have consulted closely with the East Melbourne Group, Melbourne City Council and key objector groups to reach a commercial outcome, and appreciate the constructive&nbsp;nature of these discussions.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pb_co_east_melbourne_elevated.jpg" width="1200" />

"We have worked tirelessly with architects Bayley Ward to delivery five spectacular full floor residences which will enjoy remarkable views of Melbourne's CBD precinct.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision."

The ground floor apartment&nbsp;will be housed within the existing structure, with historic elements such as the grand double-height ceilings and the original tiling brought back to life.

Four new apartments, in keeping with the original design, will be built above.

Each apartment will have three bedrooms, multiple living zones, winter gardens and study retreats, as well as a fully automated car parking system likened to a James Bond-style of parking.

The 315 sqm penthouse, expected to sell for over $10 million,&nbsp;will have views over Fitzroy Gardens and Melbourne's skyline. It will feature a private rooftop terrace and infinity pool.

"We are very much looking forward to continuing the trend of our signature branded residences and unveilings the next global collaboration in the coming months,"&nbsp;Bragilevsky added.

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after.

PB &amp; Co. now have over&nbsp;$350 million across Melbourne and Sydney’s prestigious wealth belts, having recently spent $60 million on a site in Sydney's Kurraba Point. That could see between eight and 12 luxury residences built on the 4,200 sqm block.

One of their latest Melbourne projects, Fifty Two Black, in Brighton, is kitted out in Restoration Hardware.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106713 project_image_fid=171917]

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after

PB & Co. to convert historic East Melbourne terrace, Eblana, in to five luxury apartments

The latest Perth development from the Blueways Group, who have partnered with Aria Land for the luxury apartment project, Rivean Residences, has been strategically located in the heart of everything Nedlands has to offer.

Rivean, a collection of just 28 contemporary apartments designed by the respected architect and builder Giorgi, are located at 139 Broadway, a stone&#39;s throw east to Matilda Bay Reserve and the Swan River.

At Matilda Bay Reserve is the local yacht club, as well as Matilda Bay restaurant and Bayside Kitchen. The closest grassy area bordering the Swan River is JH Abrahams Reserve and Charles Court Reserve, separated by JoJo&#39;s Cafe.

To the west, also within a five minute walk, is Melvista Park, where there&#39;s the Nedlands Croquet Club, Tennis Club, and Golf Club.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178800]

Within driving distance is Claremont Quarter, which offers a number of shopping options. Closer to home are some more local Nedlands dining options, including the popular Marumo, Chez Pierre, and Steves Nedlands.

Under 500 metres away is also a campus for the University of Western Australia.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95299 project_image_fid=178802]

Over 50 percent of the two and three bedroom apartments have been sold with prices starting from $909,000 for the two bedroom apartments. The three-bedroom apartments are priced from $1,139,000.

Construction is scheduled for November 2021,&nbsp;with completion estimated for 2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=95299]

Located in leafy Nedlands, Rivean enjoys close proximity to the city, Swan River and premier shopping and dining destinations

jordan_55689

Bordered by Swan River foreshore: How Rivean Residences fit in to Perth's affluent Nedlands

First home buyers are continuing their property search as we head in to the summer selling season.

While ABS data showed first home buyer&nbsp;loan commitments have tapered off for the seventh month in a row, Urban are still seeing a significant uptake from first home buyers, as much as there was during the HomeBuilder boom earlier this year.

First home buyers are still making up&nbsp;more than a quarter of new owner occupier loans, as developers and agents cite continued strong interest from the segment.

ABS data shows new first home buyer commitments remain more than 50 per cent higher compared to this time last year.

With first home buyer loan commitments still holding strong, Urban has highlighted the developments in the suburbs most popular amongst first home buyers for the month of September.

<h2>Brunswick</h2>

Brunswick has always been a popular spot for the younger, first home buyer demographi.

When COVID lockdowns lift, the eclectic suburb in Melbourne's north&nbsp;will again be home to live music, upbeat pubs and beer gardens.

At the area's heart, Sydney Road has Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, offbeat shops, shisha lounges and cafes along its considerable length. Neighbouring East Brunswick is more upscale, home to upwardly mobile professionals and craft-beer bars.

One of the most in demand projects on Urban for first home buyers has been&nbsp;4 Ballarat Street, namely down to its location and&nbsp;affordability. Prices&nbsp;start&nbsp;as low as&nbsp;$467,500 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Located in the heart of Brunswick, the development team at Assemble&nbsp;Futures operate on a&nbsp;rent-with-the-option-to-buy model, which has made this development particularly popular amongst first home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160739]

The new rent-with-the-option-to-buy model offers a more accessible pathway to owning a home, that bridges the gap between renting and buying. Once the applicant signs the lease agreement and contract of sale, they secure five years agreed rent with the option to buy their home at the end of the lease period.

Designed by Fieldwork Architects and with landscaping by Rush Wright, 4 Ballarat places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100% renewable energy. This also appeals to the more&nbsp;environmentally conscious younger generations.

<h2>Melbourne</h2>

The stamp duty concessions in the CBD has increased its popularity with first home buyers, as those looking and getting on the ladder for the first time are eyeing somewhere near the central office hub of the city.

Home to some of Melbourne’s best cultural and entertainment venues, as well as an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, cafe's and everything in between, residents love Degraves Street and the Bourke Street Mall in particular. Shoppers can get lost for hours, while diners can find an ideal meal at any price point.&nbsp;

It is also home to a&nbsp;bumping nightlife with clubs and bars renowned across Australia.

One of the latest popular developments on the Melbourne CBD fringe is&nbsp;St Boulevard, the three-tower project by The Shakespeare Group.&nbsp;

Recently completed, St Boulevard offers an unrepeatable location, located in a prime position on the corner of St Kilda Rd and High Street, and at the southern tip of Albert Park Lake,&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177638]

Apartments start from $410,000 in the Elenberg-Fraser designed development.

St Boulevard is&nbsp;made up of three towers Magnolia, Anaca and Ginko, and puts residents on the fringes of Albert and Fawkner Parks. It's&nbsp;a short stroll to the&nbsp;St Kilda and Prahran precincts.

&nbsp;

<h2>Keysborough</h2>

The family-friendly suburb of Keysborough,&nbsp;27 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, continues to be popular with first home buyers and young families, due to its larger, and more affordable, apartments and townhouses.

The hottest project is&nbsp;Haven Townhomes, the townhouse development created by Aultun Group and design by Cera Stribley Architects.

There are three-bedroom townhomes on offer, priced from $714,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59639]

Situated surrounded by thriving wetlands and meandering walking trails, each of the 59 Haven Townhomes are in a prime position for sweeping views, access to nature and convenient amenities.

<h2>Hawthorn East</h2>

Hawthorn East is usually a feature on the most popular investor suburbs but it isn't the first-time it has shown up on the most popular first home buyer list, with Dahua Group's&nbsp;Hawthorn Park recently completion being a factor.&nbsp;

Located in one of Melbourne’s most blue chip suburbs, the Hawthorn East development is surrounded by heritage homes and buildings, cafes, boutiques and bars, in addition to&nbsp;a well connected public transport system.

Dahua Group&nbsp;had architecture firm&nbsp;Rothelowman, one of Australia’s leading architecture practices, collaborate with the landscape architect&nbsp;Jack Merlo&nbsp;on the Camberwell Road development of 330 residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171605]

Residents enjoy the property’s landscaped green spaces and parks that feature fruit and vegetable gardens for dwellers to grow their own produce. The project also features a sky boardwalk, splash pool, sky lounge, massage suites and fully-equipped gym.

<h2>Wollert</h2>

Discerning first home buyers with an eye on future infrastructure growth have been looking at Wollert, the growing area 26 kilometres north of Melbourne.

The future 64-hectare master-planned community, Mason Quarter, has been the most sought-after project in Wollert.

Delivered by Cedar Woods, Mason Quarter&nbsp;incorporates over 800 dwellings, two schools, community facilities, a 7.9-hectare conservation reserve and over 30 distributed tree reserves with majestic river red gums.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95340 project_image_fid=160803]

Mason Quarter offers buyers the choice of either land starting from as low as&nbsp;$275,500 for a 238 sqm package to build their dream home or a residence in one of their releases like Mason Quarter Townhomes.

The community is&nbsp;located within walking distance of the future&nbsp;Wollert&nbsp;town centre and there is a range of existing infrastructure and public amenity available nearby including the Hume Freeway, Metropolitan Ring Road, hospitals, shopping centres and public transport.

ABS data shows new first home buyer commitments remain more than 50 per cent higher compared to this time last year.



Urban's most popular Melbourne suburbs for first home buyers in September

The $140 project, Ferny Grove Central, in Brisbane&rsquo;s north-west has seen 70% of its apartments sold two months after its construction began.

The Fernery comprises of 82 apartments featuring 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments in the low rise project.

Some 85% of the buyers come from surrounding suburbs through Colliers since the April launch.

Some 70% of the sales have been to owner-occupiers. For investors, based on an appraisal by local agents, the yield is likely to be circa 5%.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162779]

Apartments prices at The Fernery start from $349,000.&nbsp;

There will be a resort-style rooftop recreational deck with 15-metre pool set among landscaped sub-tropical surrounds.

The Fernery is a joint venture project by Honeycombes Property Group and MaxCap Group.

The Fernery is the residential centrepiece of Ferny Grove Central, the $140 million landmark urban renewal project, which has been almost eight years in the making.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162782]

It will transform the northern Brisbane suburb with a new Transit Oriented Development (TOD) which combines apartment living, a major retail centre and an entertainment precinct .

Its construction contract is with builder Broad Construction, a subsidiary of CPB Contractors, part of the ASX-listed CIMIC Group.

Peter Honeycombe is managing director of Honeycombes Property Group, which has over 25 years had more than $1.5 billion in projects that are either completed or&nbsp;under construction.

More than 800 full time jobs are being supported by the development, including about 285 jobs directly tied to the construction project.&nbsp;

Construction of Ferny Grove Central is expected to take 28 months with completion set for late-2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162785]

The most high-profile example of Honeycombes&#39; urban redevelopment projects is the award-winning Coorparoo Square, a $252 million urban renewal development completed in 2018.

With property projects at the fore, MaxCap Group has invested more than $11.5bn across more than 450 projects since its inception in 2007.

The Fernery comprises of 82 luxury apartments at 47 Conavalla Street, Ferny Grove, with a resort-style rooftop recreational deck for residents 

The Fernery, Brisbane apartments in Ferny Grove, hit 70% sold

Arcadia is among&nbsp;Lane Cove’s most coveted new addresses, combining bushland panoramas with sophisticated architectural designs.

Never to be built-out natural vistas create a green backdrop to the apartment development, nestled at the doorstep of the bushland reserve along Stringybark Creek.

Delivered by DASCO, Arcadia features&nbsp;69 one, two and three-bedroom residences across three individual buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153922]

Diverse floorplans feature a range of offerings, including double-storey layouts, studies, media spaces, while select three-storey, terrace-style residences feature their own private entrances.

Floorplans extend up to 227sqm, making these apartments more than $800,000 cheaper than a similar-sized, free-standing home in the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153921]

Arcadia focuses on alfresco living, with generous private terraces, courtyards and sun-soaked balconies providing a sublime setting for relaxing and entertaining outdoors.

Inside, living spaces are roomy and airy, graced with top-quality Italian ILVE appliances, stone benchtops, a smart home system and floor-to-ceiling windows.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153912]

Residents can choose between two considered colour schemes. The stylish lighter and darker colour palettes, Sunrise and Sunset, allows buyers to personalise their surroundings to suit their taste.

Lane Cove lies within one of Australia’s top 10 most advantaged Local Government Areas, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153916]

Located close to several major centres including the Sydney and North Sydney CBDs, Macquarie Park and Chatswood, its convenience is a major drawcard.

A number of infrastructure and community projects and upgrades have helped to transform the suburb and its village, which has become a popular and diverse destination in its own right.

These include an upgrade of Lane Cove Plaza and the opening of The Canopy, poised to become Lane Cove’s premier dining and shopping destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153925]

Central and convenient, Arcadia enjoys easy access to the area’s many attractions and amenities. It is located a 4-minute walk from the nearest bus stop on Centennial Avenue and a 12-minute bus ride to Chatswood.

The CBD lies within a 15-minute drive from the residence and premier education institutions are within close proximity, including Lane Cove and Lane Cove West Public Schools, St Ignatius’ College Riverview and Macquarie Uni.

“We are thrilled to bring our signature quality, vision and lifestyle focus to beautiful Lane Cove and deliver a product that we know will resonate with style-conscious buyers”, DASCO director Salim Nicolas said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153917]

Arcadia delivers a lush living experience to a range of buyers, and the lush surrounding treescape ensures a feeling of peace, tranquillity and seclusion rarely found in urban living.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6912]

A number of infrastructure and community projects and upgrades have helped to transform the suburb and its village, which has become a popular and diverse destination in its own right.

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Arcadia, the Lower North Shore apartments attracting families and investors

Wahroonga Gardens, a collection of brand-new, three-bedroom townhomes in Wahroonga in Sydney&#39;s upper north shore,&nbsp;are proving popular with homebuyers looking for a more affordable property option.

Delivered by Developcorp, the boutique development has just 10 residences, with prices starting from $1.42 million.

Recent sales data from SQM Research shows the median house sale price in Wahroonga is around $1.96 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29040 project_image_fid=87577]

Fresh and inviting, Wahroonga Gardens provide contemporary townhomes, designed to blend with the residential character of the surrounding area.

Contemporary interiors are filled with natural light, featuring flexible living spaces perfect for any family&rsquo;s changing needs.

The free-flowing layout and outdoor balconies are ideal for entertaining family and friends, and boast a welcoming feel thanks to timber flooring and a warm palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29040 project_image_fid=87578]

According to the developer, each townhome features quality fittings and superior detail, including 40mm stone benchtops and quality stainless steel appliances throughout.

Situated on Sydney&rsquo;s Upper North Shore, Wahroonga is characterised by tree-lined streets, premier schools and the boutique shops and restaurants of Wahroonga village.

Residents are well connected and within 500-metres to Waitara Station, meaning Westfield Hornsby is one stop away. The Sydney CBD is around a 40-minute commute by train.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29040 project_image_fid=87579]

Residents will have easy access to the north coast and Sydney&rsquo;s west through&nbsp;the M1 and North Conex Motorways, Pacific Highway and Pennant Hills Road.

Barker College, Abbotsleigh, Loreto Normanhurst and Knox Grammar are within close proximity to Wahroonga Gardens, as are a number of public, selective and independent schools.

Residents also have nearby access to a number&nbsp;of parks and recreation areas in Berowra Valley Regional Park and Ku-ring-gai National Park. The&nbsp;exclusive Pymble Golf Club&nbsp;is located nearby.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=29040]

Wahroonga Gardens, a collection of brand-new, three-bedroom townhomes in Wahroonga, are proving popular with homebuyers looking for a more affordable property option

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