The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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Olympic swimmer Emily Seebohm has sold her Hendra investment property for $790,000 after 120 days on the market
Seebohm bought the home, north east of Brisbane, in 2012, months before she won silver in the London Olympic Games in the 100 metre backstroke.
She paid $570,000 for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hendra-130471970" target="_blank">low set brick home</a>, built in 1998.
It was sold through Harcourts.
Set on 405 sqm, the home has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a rumpus room. Of course a swimming pool sits in the back yard.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/2/19/Seebohm2.jpg" alt="">
Purplebricks had the initial listing of what became a $620 a week rental.
It was initially listed at $799,000.
Seebohm, who won gold at the world championships in 2017, still hangs on to the nearby Hendra home <a href="/news/golden-couple-mitch-larkin-and-emily-seebohm-splash-out-on-brisbane-home">she bought with her former partner</a>, fellow swimmer Mitch Larkin.
They paid $1,375,000, but separated last year.
There is a four bedroom Toowoomba house that Larkin purchased in 2015 that is also not on the market.
 
 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Swimmer Emily Seebohm sells Hendra investment

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John Wacker, the Hong Kong-based lawyer, has bought in Brisbane's west.
He's recently settled on a $4.1 million acreage in Brookfield.
The hilltop home, known as Lani Mauna, Hawaiian for “mountain reaching heaven”, had been on the market for over a year.
It was designed by architect Tim Ditchfield with strong references to modern tropical architecture after the one hectare block traded for $1.5 million in 2011.
Built with a no expense spared budget, Lani Mauna has five bedrooms, a library, home office, gym, temperature controlled wine cellar and a 22 metre infinity edged solar heated pool.
Johnston Dixon agent Josephine Johnstone-Rowell sold the home.
Wacker, who has been at Bank of American since 2005, owns a $3.28 million Noosa home.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian. 
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Bank of America general counsel buys Lani Mauna in Brookfield

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Retired Test cricketer Brendon Julian­, who’s having a few late nights hosting Fox Sports' ICC World Cup coverage, has secured tenants­ for his recently-settled­ Bronte investment apartment.
He was among the buyers in Danny Avidan’s redevelopment of the former Bronte RSL site.
Julian paid $2.5 million for a two-bedroom Macpherson Street apartment off the plan back in October 2016, with settlement occuring only recently after delays in commencement.
He sought out $1500-a-week tenants, reflecting a yield of 3.1%.
The 120 square metre Bronte Place apartment is an investment for Julian and his wife, Suzanne, who have a nearby Bronte residence.
They bought a rundown 1970s home for $5.3 million in 2007, before renovating it into a contemporary home with pool.
Former fashion mogul-turned-property developer Avidan purchased the former Bronte RSL site for $8.8 million in late 2015 from developer Winston Langley.
The sale came with approval­ for 21 apartments at the SJB Architects-designed project.
Avidan then lodged an application to add more residences, which was rejected by Waverley Council and then the NSW Land &amp; Environment Court.
When launched in 2016, prices started at $1.5 million for a one-bedroom with study to more than $2 million for a two-bedroom unit — as well as a penthouse that sold for $4.6 million.
Julian likely wouldn’t have made much if he had flipped the apartment.
The neighbouring two-bedroom unit is up for sale for $2.22 million as unsold developer stock, albeit it is a much smaller and narrower apartment.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.  
 
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Fox Sports host Brendon Julian settles on new Bronte apartment

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There are just 800 listings remaining on the Purplebricks website.
It was at around 1000 a fortnight ago, as vendors depart the UK-based disruptor for local estate agents.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/29/narre%20warren%20east.jpg" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.purplebricks.com.au/search/property-for-sale#?q&amp;location=&amp;page=1&amp;searchType=ForSale&amp;sortBy=2" target="_blank">remaining 800 offerings</a> range from around $2.9 million to $3.2 million at 30 Boundary Road, Narre Warren East (pictured above), a four bedroom, three bathroom house set on 6.47 hectares to $30,000 for Lot 30 Melvin Terrace, Pinery.
The 1012 square metre Pinery holding has been unsuccessfully offered to market multiple times over the past six years, with the asking price reaching $133,270 from 2014 - 2016.
According to their website, around 85 agents are still on deck.
In early May, Purplebricks Australia announced its intention to exit the Australian market.
Despite the newly-installed CEO Neil Tavender and Kenny Bruce having overhauled the pricing model, so that half the fee was paid upfront and half on completion of the sale, Purplebricks have been forced to abandon the Australian market.
The pressure on the Australian business was most clearly exposed when it reported an $18 million interim loss for the six months to October last year.
Vic Darvey, the Purplebricks Group CEO said in May that after much consideration it had "made the difficult decision to close the Australian business".
"We’ve been operating here for two and half years and, unfortunately, we have been unable to make the progress in the Australian market that we’ve wanted, despite the tireless efforts of our employees."
The Australian branch announced that they would take no further listings in Australia, but intended to finalise all existing agreements.
They announced their decision just a week after UBS said the company was<a href="/news/purplebricks-not-likely-to-make-profit-in-australia-until-2022-ubs"> not likely to make money in Australia</a> until 2022.
In the month prior to the shutdown it was forecast that Purplebricks would potentially have to close its Australian operations <a href="/news/purplebricks-australian-agency-may-need-to-be-abandoned-to-save-uk-mothership">to save the UK mothership</a>.
Michael Bruce, the group's founder and chief executive officer stepped down immediately following the announcement with Vic Darvey, previously Purplebricks’ Chief Operating Officer, being appointed to the role of Chief Executive Officer and to the Board of Purplebricks.
While Purplebricks has sold more than 5000 homes since launching in Australia in September 2016, the company was spending about 84c in advertising to generate a dollar of revenue.
The Australian Financial Review has regularly revealed an exodus of estate agents along with allegations of a "toxic culture" within the company.
Over the weekend the London press reported Purplebricks is due to post losses of £51 million.
The Sunday Telegraph advised that the loss, for the 12 months to the end of April, will be unveiled when Purplebricks reports its results on Wednesday.
The ‘underlying pre-tax’ loss compares with £26m for the year before.
According to the Telegraph, the near-double loss comes after a “failed assault” on the Australian market and troubles in its American business, which has been under review.
However, says the newspaper, the company is “theoretically profitable” in the UK.
The founders, brothers Michael and Kenny Bruce, have both left the business.
Michael Bruce, who was also global chief executive, has been replaced by Vic Darvey, formerly managing director of Money supermarket.
The Bruces have sold their shares in Purplebricks to German publishing giant Axel Springer, now Purplebricks’ largest investor with a 27% holding.
Purplebricks shares closed on Friday at 99p, below the £1 launch price back in 2015.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Purplebricks Australian property listings shrink to just 800 homes for sale 

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The Property Council of Australia is calling for the Commonwealth, state and territory governments to immediately convene an industry roundtable on resolving the insurance crisis for the building and construction sectors.
"Governments must come together on measures to address the imminent threat of the complete loss of insurance coverage for building certifiers which could significantly disrupt building and construction activity," said Property Council of Australia Chief Executive Ken Morrison.
The Property Council is calling on the Commonwealth to take a leadership role to:
<ul>
<li>Implement a nationally consistent standard for risk assessment and rectification work for existing buildings with combustible cladding;</li>
<li>Establish a joint task force of industry and governments to design a program that will fund rectification works for building owners left exposed with no recourse;</li>
<li>Recommit to a nationally consistent approach and urgent implementation of the Shergold Weir report recommendations.</li>
</ul>
It noted insurers around the world have withdrawn exclusion-free professional indemnity insurance for building certifiers and other professionals including engineers and architects in the aftermath of fires involving combustible cladding products.
"For building certifiers, this has precipitated into a real crisis with building surveying firms now facing closure because they cannot secure affordable or workable insurance policies," Morrison said.
"While Australia has taken action through its National Construction Code to improve safety standards in newly-constructed buildings, existing buildings with cladding are covered by a range of inconsistent and incompletely enforced state and territory regulations and guidelines.
"This has made it almost impossible for building owners to secure affordable insurance and to plan rectification works for their affected buildings. Building owners can no longer get expert advice from professionals as they themselves can no longer secure appropriate insurance cover for necessary work.
"This has now led to instances of certifiers being quoted insurance renewal costs up to hundreds of thousands dollars higher, or facing the prospect of no insurance cover at all.
"For too long, different levels of government have been passing the buck on putting in place nationally consistent standards for building regulation and compliance.
"The cost of this intergovernmental merry-go-round is now being sheeted home as building certifiers are unable to do their jobs without insurance cover.
"This impending insurance crisis risks bringing the construction sector to a halt if it is not addressed urgently."
The Commonwealth, state and territory governments have had the blueprint for action for more than 18 months in the form of the Shergold Weir report which made 24 recommendations to improve building regulation and compliance across Australia.
"Our objective must be to strengthen confidence in the regulatory regime for building and construction across Australia through a nationally uniform approach. Despite strong industry support, governments have taken too long to get this done," Morrison said.
"First and foremost, the Federal Government now needs to play a leadership role and bring together all state and territory governments as matter of urgency to deal with the looming insurance crisis, as well as commit to deliver on the Shergold Weir recommendations.
"Public confidence in the built environment, not to mention the hundreds of thousands of jobs supported by building and construction, demand this level of action from our governments."
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Urgent action required to fix construction industry's insurance crisis: Property Council 

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Actor Rachel Griffiths’ longtime home in the outer Los Angeles suburb Encino has quickly gone under offer.
There was a $US1.748 million ($A2.5 million) asking price on the stylish single-storey 1960s home.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/Rachel%20Griffiths%20Encino%201.jpg" alt="">
Griffiths, now back in Australia with her artist husband, Andy Taylor, bought the home in 2005 for $US1.2 million when she was finishing up her role on US TV’s Six Feet Under.
She went on to appear in Brothers &amp; Sisters, which ran until 2011.
The listing is advertised as a “celebrity-owned mid-century modern oasis”.
All rooms have walls of glass, with a step-down living room with fireplace. There’s another sunken conversation nook with fire pit outside amid yellow palo verde trees.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/Rachel%20Griffiths%20Encino%202.jpg" alt="">
The 1961 home blends minimalist and modernist elements in an open floor plan.
The gated residence sits on 1580sqm with a pool.
The now Melbourne-based Griffiths — who sold her Palm Beach, Sydney, retreat in 2014 for $2.25 million in just 10 days — will soon make her directorial feature film debut with Ride Like A Girl, which stars actors Sam Neill and Teresa Palmer, depicting the story of Michelle Payne, the first female jockey to win the Melbourne Cup.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Actress Rachel Griffiths gets offer on longtime Los Angeles home

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The vacated Sirius social housing apartment complex in Millers Point has been sold for $150 million by the NSW government.
The buyers are planning to ­refurbish rather than demolish the 11-storey Brutalist building which will become 89 luxury apartments after its sale by Savills.
It has been bought by a company directed by Jean-Dominique Huynh, a 35-year-old Vaucluse-based businessman associated with the gold and copper mining investment company JDH Capital.
Built in the 1970s to a design by architect Tao Gofers, its last social housing residents moved out over a year ago.
Housing Minister Melinda Pavey said the sale proceeds would fund more social housing.
“This is expected to provide housing for around 630 people, helping the most vulnerable members of our community,” she said.
Sales of 189 dwellings in neighbouring Millers Point since 2014 have delivered more than $750 million for more than 1500 new residential units.
The buyers are planning to refurbish the brutalist building into 89 apartments.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/SIRIUS2.jpg" alt="">
Melinda Pavey, Minister for Water, Property and Housing, said proceeds were expected to provide housing for around 630 people.
“There are around 55,000 people on the social housing waiting list. The sale of the 189 dwellings in neighbouring Millers Point since 2014 have delivered more than $750 million for more than 1500 new residential units, with around 1300 already constructed.
“We have the largest social and affordable housing building program of any state or territory in Australia. These asset sales have meant we can create more than four new homes for every one sold.
The Sirius building opened in 1981 and had acted for social housing until January last year.
A prominent examaple of Brutalist architecture in Australia, Sirius houses 79 one, two, three and four bedroom apartments. Most apartments have harbour and city views, with the rooftop a 360 degree view across both.
Savills agents Simon Fenn, Stuart Cox, Neil Cooke and Michael Simpson were marketing the property through an international sales campaign with the opportunity for a variety of uses through the flexible zoning application to the 3,650 sqm site.
On its marketing launch, Savills NSW managing director Simon Fenn said this was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
“Sirius is positioned on some of the most valuable land in Australia and will certainly attract interest from around the globe, with a once in a lifetime opportunity to revitalise this prime site with a range of potential future scenarios including residential, commercial, hotel and retail or a mix of these.”
“Never before has a building with such unobstructed and striking harbour views within the heart of Sydney been offered to the market. A proposal like this is certainly one in a million,” he continued.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sirius at Millers Point sells through Savills

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Over the month of June, house prices in both Sydney and Melbourne didn't record losses for the first time in nearly two years, according to CoreLogic.
The end of the housing downturn in the two major capital city markets has been forecasted since the Coalition won parliamentary honours over Labor in May.
The declines slowed down drastically since.
The month of May saw Sydney houses dropping just 0.4 percent and Melbourne 0.6 percent.
The latest figures from CoreLogic, who analyse the housing markets every month, saw Sydney house prices unmoved in June, with Melbourne scoring a 0.1% increase.
Nationally dwelling values are down just 0.2%, with house values down 0.1% and unit values up 0.2%.
To enlarge, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/1/Capital%20City%20markets%20June%20CoreLogic.jpg" target="_blank">click here</a>.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/Capital%20City%20markets%20June%20CoreLogic.jpg" alt="">
Hobart's cooling off period only lasted a few months, with house values increasing by 0.1% in June.
The biggest house value declines were felt in Darwin (-1.7%) and Canberra (-0.9%).
Perth saw its house values drop 0.7%, followed by Brisbane 0.6% decline and Adelaide at 0.5%
CoreLogic head of research Tim Lawless believes that the June housing market results provide further evidence that the downturn is running out of steam.
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“The improvement in housing market conditions over the first five months of the year has largely been organic, however since mid-May there has been a raft of announcements that should provide a further positive flow through to housing demand", Lawless said. 
“Stability within the federal government, along with the removal of uncertainty surrounding changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax discounts, has brought about increased certainty and boosted confidence in the housing market.
To enlarge, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/1/CoreLogic%20June%2030%20Capital%20City.jpg" target="_blank">click here</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/CoreLogic%20June%2030%20Capital%20City.jpg" alt="">
“Aided by the housing downturn, we have also seen an improvement around housing affordability, although dwelling values remain high relative to household incomes in Sydney and Melbourne.
"Add to this lower mortgage rates and the high likelihood that interest rate serviceability tests are set to improve.”
The last time Sydney and Melbourne houses didn't record losses in the same month was August 2017 when Sydney's housing downturn began, some six months before Melbourne started declining.
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Sydney and Melbourne housing downturn weakening to a halt

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There's a Thredbo price record after its current holder, Tussock, has been snappily sold, having been listed with $4 million to $5 million price hopes.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/28/thredbo%202.jpg" alt="">
Tussock, the alpine chalet located on one of the highest blocks in Thredbo, was designed to be a soft edge between the village and the national park.
It last traded for $3.5 million in 2005 when sold by Melbourne architect Andrew Norbury and his then wife Jane Parker, one of the founders of Country Road. It has been purchased by another Sydney family.
Norbury had designed the home on Crackenback Ridge, with its construction costs put as $1.2 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-alpine-nsw-thredbo-131259662" target="_blank">two-storey, five bedroom residence</a> features remote-controlled 15 zone underfloor heating, plus floor-to-ceiling windows looking out on snow gums and passing skiers.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/28/thredbo%203.jpg" alt="">
Crackenback Ridge changed mountaintop living with its ski-in, ski-out location.
The ground floor of the home is essentially subterranean with only one of the four elevations revealing itself to the viewer.
Six hundred cubic metres of earth were carved out to slot the home into the hill.  
The upper level is a pavilion structure that sits in a field of Tussock's native grasses and flowers.
The pavilion structure is substantially glazed, creating living areas with a sense of lightness and allowing filtered views of the surrounding alpine environment.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/28/thredbo%204.jpg" alt="">
The entry is lit via flashing at the upper level, producing a diffused light that filters through an open staircase and into the subterranean entry foyer. This creates an unexpectedly light and warm entry which then leads up into the pavilion spaces.
Reducing conventional height and visible bulk, the main sleeping quarters were buried into the site with a lightweight living pavilion stepped back into the slope above it.
A wide V-shaped wall of local granite forms the camouflaged outer edge to the subterranean portion. 
"The idea was the bulk of the bedrooms would be warm and cozy downstairs, in a space where you don't need much light, and the spaces above, which you inhabit by day, would be all glass," Norbury of METIER3 noted after its construction.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/28/thredbo%205.jpg" alt="">
"The knock-on effect is that the living spaces have a great view out across the ski runs.
"This house is actually very inconspicuous given how big it is [450 square metres]."
By pushing one level underground, the architect halved the permitted site coverage, allowing more space between buildings.
The initiative also broke with the comparatively uniform typology of houses in the village, a conscious goal of the architect.
"You just see a single pavilion," said Norbury. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/28/thredbo%206.jpg" alt="">
Before this design, Norbury had another residence on Crackenback Ridge a little further down the hill which won a commendation in the premier national architecture prize for housing, the Robin Boyd Award, in 1997. 
They sold the home when it became "built out" by other lodges.
Over recent years the most significant sale was De Dacha lodge, set in the village, which fetched $2.25 million.
Overlooking the duck ponds, the four-bedroom European alpine-style lodge ranks among the loveliest of the village’s private abodes.
Former society model Fiona Campbell sold the chalet, which has been an $8000-a-week peak season rental, to the ski-loving Punch family through local agent Doug Edwards at Mountain High Real Estate.
Lendlease resort manager Albert Van der Lee had built it for a mere $28,000 and lived there from 1962 to 1984.
It traded in 1994 for a record $810,000 when Campbell and her then husband, publisher Matt Handbury, bought it from village developers Lendlease. 
Around $240,000 will get you a studio apartment in Central Thredbo. 
Being in Kosciuszco National Park, buyers secure a Torrens Title Leasehold, with leases running until 2057/58.
Owners buy the right to occupy a certain number of beds within a building.
Even out of season, Thredbo is buzzing with crowds clad in sports-luxe, trekking and pedalling up summits.
In summer "it's like having a farmhouse", Norbury said of Tussock. 
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Fresh Thredbo price record after sale of Tussock ski chalet on Crackenback

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The recently appointed Football Federation Australia board member Joseph Carrozzi secured the weekend sale of Anahata, a Mosman investment property.
The renovated Queen Anne-style Federation home on Myahgah Road fetched more than its $4 million reserve, when offloaded for an undisclosed price, but understood to be $4.55 million.
The home, opposite the Allan Border Oval, attracted five registered bidders compete – with an investor securing the offering.
Carrozzi, the national managing partner at PwC, paid $2.3 million for the property in 2009.
The three-bedroom Queen Anne-style Federation home has a self-contained studio at the rear which has been operated as a healing centre by his wife, Jana, integrating both ayurvedic and western therapies.
It has been relocated to Suakin Drive, Mosman.
Nic and Kingsley Yates had the Myahgah Road listing.
The couple live at a large Clifton Gardens battle-axe.
</body></html>

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