<p>An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.</p>

<p>The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.</p>

<p>The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.</p>

<p>Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.</p>

<p><img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" /></p>

<p>It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.</p>

<p>The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.</p>

<p><img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." /></p>

<p>Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.</p>

<p><img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" /></p>

<p>The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.</p>

<p>The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.</p>

<p>Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.</p>


Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

<p>A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.</p>

<p>The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" /></p>

<p>Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.</p>

<p>At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" /></p>

<p>The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.</p>

<p>Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.</p>

<p>The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" /></p>

<p>The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.</p>

<p>Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.</p>

<p>Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.</p>


Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

<p>Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.</p>

<p>The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.</p>

<p>One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.</p>

<p>"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.</p>

<p>"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]</p>

<p>The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.</p>

<p>PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.</p>

<p>"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]</p>

<p>Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.</p>

<p>Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.</p>

<p>The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.</p>

<p>"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.</p>

<p>"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]</p>

<p>Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.</p>

<p>Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]</p>


Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

<p>Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.</p>

<p>The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]</p>

<p>“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.</p>

<p>The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]</p>

<p>“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.</p>

<p>“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]</p>

<p>Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.</p>

<p>Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.</p>

<p>The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.</p>

<p>LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.</p>

<p>Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]</p>


Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

<p>Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?</p>

<p>Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.</p>

<p>NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.</p>

<p>“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.</p>

<p>"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.</p>

<p>Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.</p>

<p>“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”</p>

<p>Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.</p>

<p>“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”</p>

<p>She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.</p>

<p>“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”</p>


Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

<p>Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.</p>

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="252" data-start="225">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="413" data-start="389">Stamp Duty Benefits:</strong> Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.</p>

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Benefits</strong>: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.</p>

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="920" data-start="893">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="1162" data-start="1135">Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.</p>

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.</p>

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="1617" data-start="1590">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.</p>

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Relief:</strong> Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.</p>

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant</strong>: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: 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.</p>

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.</p>

<p>Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.</p>

<p>A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.</p>

<p>NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

<p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Cost Savings:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Environmental Impact:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Improved Comfort: </strong>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.</p>

<p><strong>Market Value and Desirability:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Compliance with Building Codes:</strong> 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.</p>


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?

<p>Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.</p>

<p>Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.</p>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.</p>

<p>It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;"><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></p>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:</p>

<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>

<p style="line-height:1.38">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.</p>


Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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<p>Maintaining profit margins was the central consideration of the big-four banks when they failed to reduce mortgage rates in line with RBA cash rate cuts during 2019, the ACCC have said.</p>
<p><span>The ACCC’s Home Loan Price Inquiry interim report shows that the big four banks considered various factors as they decided whether to pass on the RBA’s June, July, and October rate cuts last year.</span></p>
<p><span>Recovering profits, however, was central to their decisions to not always fully pass through the lower rates to mortgage customers.</span></p>
<p><span>When the RBA cut rates in October, ANZ cut rates by 0.14%, Commonwealth Bank by 0.13%, NAB by 0.15%, and Westpac by 0.15% - all well below the full 0.25% mark.</span></p>
<p><span>Following the failure to meet RBA cuts, non-bank lenders roughly doubled their share in the market.</span></p>
<p><span>“The banks were attempting to shore up their profitability during a period of low interest rates,” ACCC chair Rod Sims said.</span></p>
<p><span>“It was their strong preference, after the RBA’s cuts, not to further reduce the rates customers were earning on some deposit products as they approached zero per cent.”</span></p>
<p><span>“The banks’ reluctance to cut these deposit rates led them to anticipate lower profits, which they aimed to recover by not always fully passing through cash rate cuts to their mortgage customers,” Mr Sims said.</span></p>
<p><span>The ACCC’s analysis also found that the big four banks benefitted in 2019 from a sustained decrease in their funding costs.</span></p>
<p><span>While headline rates for owner-occupier home loans with principal and interest repayments fell overall during 2018 and 2019, the banks’ funding costs fell even more over the same period.</span></p>
<p><span>“We recognise that much has changed in the economic and funding environment since last year. The COVID-19 pandemic has shifted priorities and the banks are playing an important role in supporting the economy,” Mr Sims said.</span></p>
<p><span>“However, the inquiry findings shed an important light on bank decision making and raise questions about whether the banks could, at the time, have passed on a higher proportion of those RBA cash rate cuts to their mortgage customers.”</span></p>
<p><span>The ACCC’s Home Loan Price Inquiry interim report also shows that, although average interest rates charged by the big four banks on home loans fell during 2019, a lack of price transparency and higher interest rates for existing loans continued to cost customers.</span></p>
<p><span>The interim report examines home loan prices charged by the big four banks between 1 January 2019 and 31 October 2019.</span></p>
<p><span>It found that home loan pricing practices continue to make it difficult for consumers to compare different mortgage products.</span></p>
<p><span>Headline rates did not accurately reflect the price most big four bank customers actually paid for their home loans, because the overwhelming majority of customers received discounts (including opaque discretionary discounts).</span></p>
<p><span>“Given the economic disruption, uncertainty and job losses stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, many consumers may not be inclined to shop around and ask for discounts from their banks right now,” Mr Sims continued.</span></p>
<p><span>“However, our analysis shows how that even a small further reduction in interest rates could potentially save thousands of dollars over the life of a mortgage. Consumers should consider this carefully when it is time to re-engage with their lender.”</span></p>
<p><span>For example, a customer with an average-sized new, owner-occupier, principal and interest mortgage of $386,000 could save about $5000 on interest payments in the first year if they went from having no discount to receiving the big four banks’ average discount of 128 basis points.</span></p>
<p><span>At the end of September, customers with new owner-occupier loans with principal and interest repayments were paying, on average, 26 basis points less than customers with existing loans. The difference was usually even more significant for customers with older loans.</span></p>
<p><span>The ACCC’s final report, scheduled for release later this year, will consider the barriers to consumers switching to alternative home loan suppliers.</span></p>
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Maintaining profit margins was central to big four banks' interest rate cut decisions: ACCC

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<p>Up to 10 people at a time will be allowed to attend open homes in Western Australia after the state government eased coronavirus restrictions.</p>
<p>Real estate agents across the state have only been able to show one person through a property at a time in the four weeks since the state government imposed a two-person only restriction on March 30.</p>
<p>These stage 3 restrictions will be eased on Monday in WA, Premier Mark McGowan and Health Minister Roger Cook announced on Sunday.</p>
<p>Real Estate Institute of Australia president Adrian Kelly said, “We would obviously like to see that extended throughout the other states, but at the same time that needs to be done very slow and steady because the last thing we need in Australia is a second wave of the virus to occur … we’ve all worked hard to get this far."</p>
<p>Under the changes, a maximum of 10 people will be allowed at weddings, funerals, outdoor personal training, open homes and display village inspections.</p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Restriction eased on open home inspections in Western Australia

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<p>COVID-19 led to some very quick changes to how property is viewed, bought and sold.</p>
<p>Following the implementation of government restrictions to public inspections and on-site auctions, the property industry reacted almost overnight, switching to digital inspections and online auctions.</p>
<p>With social distancing measures expected to start easing from next month, will any part of the transaction process be permanently changed as a result of COVID-19?</p>
<p>Prior to COVID-19, auctions only made up 15% of the overall sales market. Now, online auctions make up an even smaller proportion at 5%.</p>
<p>Online auctions are a great way to facilitate buyers that may not be able to attend in person so we will continue to see a small number of auctions held this way once restrictions ease. It’s more likely that when restrictions ease, on-site auctions will bounce back as before.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/4/27/REA%20table.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>The benefits of digital inspections are here to stay. While good quality photography provides an indication of how a property looks, a walk-through video or 3D tour gives potential buyers significantly improved perspective on the quality, size and layout of the property.</p>
<p>Digital inspections are delivering more qualified buyers to agents, and that’s a good very thing.</p>
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Digital inspections are here to stay as NSW cracks 1 million views: REA

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<p>New regulations published in NSW will give immediate effect to the NSW Government’s COVID-19 rental relief measures, reflecting the National Cabinet’s Code of Conduct agreed to by all states.</p>
<p>Minister for Finance and Small Business Damien Tudehope and Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the changes will support and guide tenants and landlords in negotiating agreements.</p>
<p>They are part of the NSW Government’s package of support for tenants and landlords which includes up to $440 million in land tax relief announced on April 13, to be split approximately 50-50 between the commercial and residential sectors.</p>
<p>“This is about adopting a national framework in NSW so agreements can be reached between parties and more businesses stay in business and people stay in jobs,” Mr Tudehope said.</p>
<p>“These new regulations require landlords to negotiate rent relief agreements with tenants in financial distress due to COVID-19 by applying the leasing principles in the National Code of Conduct.”</p>
<p>Mr Tudehope said the regulations - which also apply to commercial leases - would provide a clear way forward for tenants and landlords to reach agreements.</p>
<p>To facilitate these changes, and deliver increased mediation and advisory services to commercial parties, the NSW Small Business Commission will be bolstered with extra staff and an injection of $10 million from the $1 billion Working for NSW Fund.</p>
<p>Regulations relating to commercial leases were expedited under amendments passed by the NSW Parliament in March, which allow the Government to make laws that are reasonable to protect the health, safety and welfare of lessees or tenants during COVID-19.</p>
<p>New regulations to assist landlords and tenants in the residential sector were also published last week by the Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation.</p>
<p>Mr Perrottet said land tax relief would be available within weeks, with landlords also able to access a further land tax deferral for any outstanding amounts for a three-month period if they’ve claimed the land tax concession.</p>
<p>“Eligible landlords will be able to apply for a land tax concession of up to 25 per cent of their 2020 land tax liability on relevant properties so long as they pass on the full savings in the form of a rent reduction to their tenants,” Mr Perrottet said.</p>
<p>The commercial lease policy will apply to business tenants with a turnover of less than $50 million that experience a 30 per cent (or more) reduction in revenue as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. </p>
<p>For residential tenancies, households must show they have suffered a loss of income equal to or greater than 25 per cent due to COVID-19 and are struggling to make rental payments.</p>
<p>It is expected eligible landlords will be able to apply for land tax rebates from Service NSW from Monday, 4 May 2020.</p>
<p>More information is available via <a href="http://www.service.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank">Service NSW</a>.</p>
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NSW Government acts to support commercial tenants and landlords

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<p>A modern three level Ascot home has hit the market.</p>
<p>The Palm Avenue residence was the project of property developer Troy Daffy, who owns Silverstone Group, and wife Caroline, who have just upgraded to Windermere, one of the suburb's most historic houses.</p>
<p>In mid-2015 they paid $3.03 million for the vacant 1,265 sqm Palm Avenue block, which had just a few trees on, before taking on the build themselves which took a year to complete.</p>
<p>The contemporary home, comprising 1,255 sqm of living space, </p>
<p>The master bedroom has its own wing, with his and hers wardrobes, a dressing area, an ensuite and a balcony.</p>
<p>The open plan kitchen, living and dining space opens to the outdoor entertaining area where there's an outdoor kitchen with BeefEater barbecue and stone benchtops. It adjoins the mosaic glass heated swimming pool. A synthetic grass tennis court sits on the other side of the home.</p>
<p>The underground level has an intimate wine cellar with a feature black ceiling and LED lighting, a pool room, second kitchen and an entertaining space, which has a under the water view of the swimming pool.</p>
<p>Ray White New Farm agents Matt Lancashire and Hamish Bowman have the listing.</p>
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Troy Daffy's Ascot trophy home hits the market 

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<p>Socialite Tiffany Tilley, the former wife of Ben Tilley, has listed her Paddington terrace. </p>
<p>Tilley bought the Victorian corner terrace two years ago for $4.2 million, when she downsizing from her $19.8 million Point Piper harbourside townhouse.</p>
<p>The terrace comes with formal lounge and dining, open plan kitchen/family living, Miele-appointed kitchen.</p>
<p>It has been listed with reported buyer interest in the $4 million to $4.5 million range.</p>
<p>The four bedroom, three bathroom abode is <span>within strolling distance of Five Ways, Oxford Street, city buses and highly regarded schools.</span></p>
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Socialite Tiffany Tilley lists her Paddington terrace 

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<p>Domain Group trading in the FY20 March quarter saw a small revenue increase of 1% for the quarter, and 10% in the month of March.</p>
<p>Digital revenue also increased, 3% for the quarter and 15% for the month of March despite the shutdown being introduced.</p>
<p>Domain has strengthened its liquidity position by reaching agreement with its banking group for a new debt facility of $80 million, with a term of 18 months.</p>
<p>The facility is in addition to the $225 million facilities announced to the market on 8 November 2019, with terms of three and four years.</p>
<p>Domain’s banking group has also agreed to a waiver of the group’s financial covenants as at June and December 2020. Domain’s net debt at 31 March 2020 was $149.5 million compared with $147.9 million at December 2019.</p>
<p>Domain has launched a voluntary staff program to deliver a 20% reduction in staff costs, while retaining employee talent and business momentum for the long term.</p>
<p>Employees were offered the opportunity to participate in a Share Rights program whereby they could receive a percentage of their salary package over the next six months in share rights (Rights), or alternatively elect to reduce working hours.</p>
<p>Both options have the effect of reducing staff costs over the next six months.</p>
<p>The plan has been overwhelmingly supported by Domain employees, with the majority electing to take a percentage of their salary in Rights.</p>
<p>Domain’s Leadership Team has elected to participate at higher rates: 30% for executive leaders and 50% for the CEO and Board members. The plan will take effect for six months from May 2020.</p>
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Domain has announce surprise March revenue growth

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<p>Redleaf, the grand 1899 Howard Joseland-designed residence at Wahroonga, proudly sitting on 5000 square metres, has been sold for $8 million plus.</p>
<div>It didn't get near its close to $10 million initial expectations through Christies International.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was one of the earliest homes designed by the respected British-trained architect after he arrived in Australia.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Joseland installed a sweeping verandah around the two-storey brick-and-shingle structure to capture the cooling summer breezes.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Initially it was on a six hectare lot, when the solicitor Walter Parish of the Sydney legal firm Parish Patience and McIntyre, built on what was then known as Lane Cove Road.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div id="adspot-1x1-pos-5" data-google-query-id="COHwp4PyvugCFQ6JaAodx7MKRA">
<div>The showpiece Federation arts and craft style house has been listed with $10 million hopes by the Moran healthcare family.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Greta and Doug Moran paid $38,400 for the property in 1967 and then returned it to a single-family home with 10 bedrooms for their seven children Kerry, Linda, Peter, Shane, Barbara, Brendan (deceased) and Mark.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In 1970 the couple reportedly added the cottage next door for $40,000, an adjoining block the following year for $35,000 and and vacant block in 1984 for $130,000 to create what the 5000-square-metre offering.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Doug and Greta Moran were driven by a desire to preserve Australia's heritage as well as look after the health of Sydneysiders.</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>It was the family’s first major home restoration in a portfolio that still includes Darling Point’s Swifts, Camden’s Study Park, Darling House at Millers Point and Paddington’s Juniper Hall.</p>
<p>Greta, who was credited as being the administrative powerhouse of the family operation, is now based in the luxury Moran retirement living community at Vaucluse.</p>
<p>She is a direct descendent of one of colonial Sydney's most colourful early settlers, Robert Cooper who was transported after being caught smuggling fine French silks, cognac and ostrich feathers during the Napoleonic wars. Later pardoned, Cooper built Juniper Hall, a fine early Sydney building on Oxford Street.</p>
<div>Redleaf's 1899 design was considered avant-garde in its time.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>William and Rose Parish sold it to the Crane family in 1916 for 600 pounds. Arthur Crane died in the 1930s at Pevensey on nearby Ada Avenue.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>After many changes in ownership it was left to the Sisters of Mercy in 1948 by Violet Yuille, widow of the Dr Alan Yuille.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was in 1999 when the heritage architect Clive Lucas from architects Lucas Stapleton &amp; Partners undertook its award-winning restoration, the trades being careful not to trample the hundreds of camellias planted in the grounds.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Over the decades, bits had been added on especially in the years it been used as a home for elderly nuns. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The home had also escaped extensive modernisation which transformed many other old homes in the area after World War II.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The panama-hat wearing Lucas removed the four bedrooms that had been built on to the verandah, blocking off the breeze and light.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Underneath, Lucas discovered the old footings, which had been quarried from sandstone on the site.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The billiard room saw Lucas remove a false ceiling, the behind it covered by seven coats of paint, was the original cedar ceiling. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Greta shared with Lucas a passion for William Morris designs so they used his wallpapers, designs and fabrics and restored the original colour schemes.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Simple headlight with flowers such as hollyhocks and sunflowers survived. Cosy inglenooks around the fireplaces and seats in the big bay window were given new life.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Wahroonga house won the Greenway Award for Conservation from the NSW Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, </div>
<div> </div>
<div>At the time Greta said it had been like re-discovering the house and on its completion Mrs Moran was asked how does it feel to live in a period piece?</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"It seems normal to us. I grew up living in my grandmother's house. Maybe I haven't progressed with the times. In a plain white box I would never feel comfortable, I like colour." </div>
</div>
<p>Tim Smith, director of heritage operations at Heritage NSW, says recent studies of community attitudes to Federation homes confirm not only do the homes retain their value over time, but investing in their restoration only increases their market appeal.</p>
<p>The photo (above) is from the book, Our Beautiful Homes N.S.W., edited and introduced by Michael Cannon.</p>
<p>As said in the book "Barristers and solicitors were well represented as owners of houses in the new architectural styles." </p>
<p class="p1"> </p>
<p class="p1"> </p>
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Moran family's Redleaf, Wahroonga sold for $8 million plus

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<p>The Penny Place display suite encapsulates the essence of what buyers want in a brand new apartment - sophisticated, low maintenance and high quality. Recently, Urban was invited to take a tour of the display suite, to find out what the apartments would look like upon completion. We were impressed by the attention to detail, quality of fittings and intuitive open plan layout of the living areas.</p>

<p><em>Check out our video tour:</em></p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ieBZfmQWM_4" width="660"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>PENNY PLACE AT A GLANCE </strong></h2>

<p>Developer: <a href="/developers/flagship-group"><u><strong>Flagship Property Group</strong></u></a></p>

<p>Architect: <a href="/architects/woods-bagot"><u><strong>Woods Bagot</strong></u></a></p>

<p>Location: 17 Penny Place, Adelaide SA 5000</p>

<p>Number of apartments: 152</p>

<p>Construction slated for completion: Jul 2021</p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-0a5e6f4c2e4162e6bbde198a77d12c90.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="512" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-0a5e6f4c2e4162e6bbde198a77d12c90.jpg?itok=Y7tA6qGc" width="580"></a></figure><p>Designed by the award-winning architects at Woods Bagot, Penny Place is set to become a popular new apartment development in the heart of <a href="/new-apartments/adelaide-sa"><u><strong>Adelaide</strong></u></a>, with unrivalled views and intuitive floor plan layouts.</p>

<p>Penny Place kitchens have been designed with culinary enthusiasts in mind. Featuring a Bosch gas cooktop and oven, Fisher and Paykel dish drawers, LED strip lighting and stunning Caesarstone benchtop, residents will love preparing meals in their fully-equipped entertainer's kitchen. </p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-6f91e3bcf3a1daf76d3a82354a7ce0c7.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="644" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-6f91e3bcf3a1daf76d3a82354a7ce0c7.jpg?itok=QhqbykFI" width="580"></a></figure><p>The apartment bathrooms are minimalist and spacious, including large porcelain floor tiles and a semi-frameless alcove shower with a luxurious rainfall showerhead.  </p>

<p>The tiles in the bathroom are carried through to the kitchen and living areas, except they are a larger format (300 x 300), offering the perfect balance of style, comfort and low maintenance. In the bedrooms you'll find a modern grey loop pile carpet which is soft underfoot, and perfect for extra warmth in winter months. </p>

<p>Integrated air conditioning is complemented by sunscreen and block out blinds in the living areas and bedrooms to provide residents with the perfect thermal insulation year-round. </p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-9e47b344d5a5953e5caa523511b3d1a1_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="417" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-9e47b344d5a5953e5caa523511b3d1a1_1.jpg?itok=RQoGSqwI" width="580"></a></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-eb4d112042fb62dc16822d3d7796db08_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-eb4d112042fb62dc16822d3d7796db08_2.jpg?itok=rPaeWA3v" width="580"></a></figure><p>Residents will have the option of choosing an apartment with stunning views of the Adelaide Hills, the ocean or city skyline, which can be enjoyed through the expansive floor to ceiling windows, or on your private balcony. </p>

<p>If you'd love to call Penny Place home by July 2021, then <a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide"><u><strong>reach out to a sales agent</strong></u></a> via Urban today, but hurry, as only a select number of apartments are remaining. </p>
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Olivia Round

Urban’s tour of the Penny Place display suite

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<p>June, 2016 as I sat in our office in Singapore presenting a new residential <a href="/guides">off the plan project</a> to our sales team, the announcement of Brexit was being announced.</p>

<p>‘British’ and ‘Exit’ is the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union. Also at the time, another major global event was occurring: ‘The 58th Presidential Election Campaign’. At the time Hillary Clinton was the ‘hot favourite’ to become and no one in the press gave Donald Trump a chance of becoming the 45th President of the United States.</p>

<h2>How would Australia benefit from this?</h2>

<p>I recall as the Brexit announcement came over the loudspeaker in our offices, it was like the world had suddenly stopped, everyone was in complete shock, disheartened to the extent it felt like the world was about to implode into a great depression. Why? The value for money proposition, the fear that the UK was going to go on a fire sale in the property market and the Chinese, South East Asian market were going to flood the UK market, to acquire extremely undervalued properties.</p>

<p>As our Chinese, Hong Kong &amp; South East Asian offices were so reliant on investments into the UK; they felt UK investment values were going to drop dramatically. At the time, I did not appreciate the gravity and significance these global events were going to have on the Australian Economy or precisely the Australian Residential Project Market for new <a href="/developments">development sales</a>.</p>

<p>These were significant times, that the world was about to change forever.</p>

<p>How does this impact the Australian economy in the future?</p>

<p>Why did I have these negative beliefs, towards such a buoyant economy?</p>

<p>I felt we were heading for a property burst, as household debt was growing and property prices were increasing, beyond the serviceability of the average Australian Income. We were also restricting foreign investment, which had been the very reason why Australia was so strong economically, hence why we were hardly affected in 2008, post the global GFC.</p>

<p>Refer to graph below:</p>

<p><img alt="" height="324" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_1_0.png" width="460"></p>

<p>The forecast post this pandemic is that China will be the strongest economy in the world. Australia should relish the relationship, as they will be the only ones that will be able to afford our products and we can simply not ignore the Chinese market for our own economic gains.</p>

<p>See below the following graphs, these show where the money has moved from to where the money is moving too. Australia will be the one of the biggest beneficiaries of the movement of money from the West to the East of the world. China will be the monopolist as their currency will continue to get stronger as other currencies around the world will continue to decline.</p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_2_1.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_2_1.png?itok=d2iZjUq-" width="580"></a></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_3_0.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="314" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_3_0.png?itok=-D4BLza-" width="580"></a></figure><p>Meanwhile, as the world was changing by the day in 2015 to 2019, Victoria, Australia we were going through our own changes for Residential <a href="/new-apartments">off the plan projects</a>.</p>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>Town planning Laws</strong>, as the Victorian Government introduced minimum apartment sizes and set back laws.</li>
	<li>
<strong>Influence of our Tax System: </strong>The main tax incentives include tax deductions for losses on investment properties, even those that have been negatively geared, and the 50% discount on capital gains on sale of investments properties. - Investors using their superannuation for property investments have a tax advantage compared to 'savers' who are effectively taxed up to 45% (the top marginal taxation rate) on income from bank interest or bonds, as superannuation contributions are normally only taxed at around 15%. </li>
	<li>
<strong>Influence of the Financial Institutes</strong>, the criteria for lending to <a href="/guides/2019/06/17/urbans-first-home-buyer-guide">first home buyers</a>, and investors had suddenly changed, making it more difficult for you to be able to get a home loan for an off the plan residence. Adding salt to the wound, the local banks were turning away foreign investors for residential loans on off the plan projects, </li>
	<li>
<strong>The State Revenue Office introduced</strong> new stamp duty laws for local and foreign investors to pay more stamp duty, suddenly investors were paying more for property. </li>
	<li>
<strong>Immigration to Australia</strong>, as our economy had 28 consecutive years of economic growth, there was a direct correlation between population growth, tourism, international students and migrants coming to Australia. As we will not see this influx of foreigners for a period of time, this has had a dramatic negative impact on our economy and ability to attract investors into Australia. </li>
</ul>
<p>Australia federally and domestically, introduced changes to foreign visas, taxes and banking policies, that did not make it as appealing to invest into Australia in comparison to America, UK and Canada. On a per capita basis, we were extremely appealing to foreign buyers; our natural resources, medical, legal and education system and falling Australian dollar and rising Yuan, makes us very appealing for foreign investment.</p>

<p>See the graphs below:</p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_4.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="449" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_4.png?itok=IZ3OV4aG" width="580"></a></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_5_1.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="507" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_5_1.png?itok=xvcaL81z" width="580"></a></figure><p> </p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_6.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="267" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_6.png?itok=35u1GZag" width="580"></a></figure><ul>
<li>The property prices were growing at a rapid rate and this was beginning to be a cause of concern for our future. We had problems starting to appear back in 2015, yet we all believed these good times were going to continue for many years to come. However, we failed to see history repeating, as we were in a false economy based on the foreign influx of <a href="/guides/how-to-invest-in-property-in-2020-the-ultimate-guide">investment</a>.</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_7.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="442" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_7.png?itok=AdaJIZCW" width="580"></a></figure><ul>
<li>In 2015, the International Monetary Fund sends an economic team to Australia to examine "the risks posed by property speculation and record-high <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Household_debt">household debt</a> as part of a broad health check-up of the sagging domestic economy."[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_property_bubble#cite_note-58">58</a>]</li>
	<li>The head of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Department_of_the_Treasury_(Australia)">Federal Treasury Department</a>, and the Federal government's most senior economic adviser, John Fraser publicly warned that Sydney and more expensive parts of Melbourne were experiencing a bubble. This was disputed by members of the government including the Prime Minister and Assistant Treasurer.[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_property_bubble#cite_note-59">59</a>]</li>
	<li> June - APRA 10% investment credit growth limit introduced.</li>
	<li>October - <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macquarie_Bank">Macquarie Bank</a>, a major Australian investment bank forecasted an end to property prices with "quarter-on-quarter house prices to fall from the March 2016 quarter before beginning to recover from June 2017, with a 7.5 per cent fall from peak to trough".[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_property_bubble#cite_note-60">60</a>] Westpac Bank independently raised the rates on its standard variable mortgage by 20 basis points against the Australian Reserve Bank. This was the first rate rise by an Australian bank in five years.[<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_property_bubble#cite_note-61">61</a>][<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australian_property_bubble#cite_note-61">62</a>]</li>
</ul>
<h2>2016</h2>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>May</strong> - From July 1, "Foreign buyers will have to provide citizenship and visa details, as well as Foreign Investment Review Board clearance, through the stamp duty process." "The ATO will match data to ensure foreign buyers have paid a $5000 fee for any property sold for less than $1 million, and $10,000 for properties over $1 million." [63]</li>
	<li>
<strong>June</strong> - "In NSW, foreign buyers will be hit with a 4%  stamp duty surcharge from June 21 and 0.75 per cent land tax surcharge starting in 2017. Victoria will raise its existing 3% stamp duty surcharge and 0.5% land tax surcharge to 7% and 1.5% respectively on July 1, while Queensland's 3% stamp duty surcharge kicks in on October 1." [64]</li>
	<li>
<strong>August</strong> - The Official cash rate drops to 1.5%, the lowest cash rate on record.[65] The cash rate remains at 1.5% as of 1 July 2018.</li>
</ul>
<p> Why did the government tinker so much, with an industry that was going so strong?</p>

<h2>2017</h2>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>March</strong> - APRA limits interest only lending to 30% of new loans.</li>
</ul>
<p>The four major banks, NAB, Westpac, ANZ and Commonwealth Bank increase home loan rates despite <br>
Reserve bank rates citing the rising costs and regulatory responsibilities. These four banks control more than 80% of the $1.6 trillion mortgage market. Owner-occupier customers repaying principal and interest experience the smallest rise while investors with interest- only loans get the largest hike. The changes effective in April–May.[66]</p>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>April</strong> - The governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia Phil Lowe states that increasing debt and rising house prices were risking the future health of the Australian economy. He noted that slow wage growth was making it harder for people to pay down their debt and attacked banks for lending to people with too little income buffer after interest.[67]</li>
	<li>
<strong>July</strong> - Stamp duty abolished for first home buyers in Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia. Investor tax deductions for depreciation and travel abolished.</li>
	<li>
<strong>September</strong> - The market reached its most recent peak in September 2017, according to Corelogic data.[68]</li>
	<li>
<strong>December</strong> - Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry established.</li>
</ul>
<h2>2018</h2>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>March</strong> - hearings into the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry begin.</li>
	<li>
<strong>July</strong> - Since the previous peak in September 2017, the combined capital 5 city property market has declined by -1.3% according to Corelogic.[68]</li>
	<li>
<strong>July</strong> - It is estimated by Digital Finance Analytics that there are approximately 1 million households in mortgage stress. These households risk defaulting on their mortgages in the event of interest rate rises of as little as 0.15%.[69] APRA chairman Wayne Byres announced that the "heavy lifting on lending standards has largely been done", and that there was unlikely to be any further tightening of macroprudential policy.[70]</li>
	<li>
<strong>July</strong> - Pressure is growing on the big four banks to follow smaller lenders (including ME, AMP, Suncorp, Bendigo Bank, Macquarie Bank, Bank of Queensland, ING, Pepper Group, IMB, Auswide and Teachers Mutual Bank) who have been raising interest rates on mortgage products from April 2018 onwards.[71] This is due to a rise in the inter-bank Bank Bill Swap Rate (BBSW). It is speculated that the causes for BBSW changes include the US Federal reserve's increases in US rates and poor returns on Australian deposits drawing funds away to international markets and Australian equities for better returns, as well as income repatriation of large American companies following tax changes of Donald Trump.[72] The funding gap between deposits and funds lent in Australia is estimated to have grown to A$457 billion in the first quarter of 2018.[73] This is putting pressure on bank wholesale lending and profit margins, raising the likelihood of interest rate rises independently of the Reserve Bank of Australia by the big four banks, despite the ongoing Royal Commission.</li>
</ul>
<h2>2019</h2>

<ul>
<li>
<strong>January 2019</strong> - RBA releases a research discussion paper 'A Model of the Australian Housing Market', which concludes that the lower interest rates explain much of the rapid growth in housing prices and construction over the past few years. [74]</li>
	<li>
<strong>February</strong> - Home prices across Sydney and Melbourne continue to fall as the RBA keeps rates on hold at 1.5 % for a record 29th month.</li>
	<li>
<strong>May</strong> - The Liberal Party wins the election and Scott Morrison is elected as the Prime Minister of Australia, economic confidence returns and the property prices started to rise again.</li>
	<li>
<strong>June</strong> - The RBA drops interest rates to a record low of 1.25 %, suggesting further cuts were to come later in the year [75], as the economy is not in as good a position as we thought.</li>
	<li>
<strong>July</strong> - RBA drops rates to another low of 1% .[76] </li>
	<li>
<strong>October</strong> - The RBA announced a further interest rate cut to 0.75%</li>
</ul>
<h2>2020</h2>

<p>At the start of 2020, the world watched the Chinese city of Wuhan (11 million residents), and then the province of Hubei (60 million residents) going into full lock down. The hope was that the newly emergent coronavirus – later renamed formally as the Novel coronavirus (COVID-19) – would be contained.</p>

<p><strong>Price Waterhouse; observe that countries (like Australia):</strong></p>

<ul>
<li>with relatively higher service sectors and high consumption suffer relatively more under the coronavirus pandemic scenario </li>
	<li>that rely on imports for consumption goods, and exports that are inputs into producing those goods, can suffer through not being able to get the imports (or only at higher prices), and not being able to produce them domestically and facing a loss in demand/ lower prices for their exports.</li>
</ul>
<p>Hence, we project that Australia’s household consumption will decline by A$37.9 billion over the forecast year.</p>

<p>The community impact - while our analysis focuses on the narrow economic cost of a potential coronavirus pandemic - and the broader social cost of such a loss of life should not be overlooked.</p>

<p>At times the human element is missed.</p>

<p>Stay isolated and stay safe.</p>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/image_8.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="356" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_8.png?itok=RxhqSoXz" width="580"></a></figure>
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