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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Ascot's Lancaster, which exudes all the elegance and luxury of Brisbane's bygone art deco era, has been listed for June 1 auction.
It was designed by celebrated architect Charles H. Griffin for its 825 square metre <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/ascot/2101400/?lang=en" target="_blank">Kitchener Road block</a> in 1938.
He suggested his homes conveyed a “feeling of solidity” which he felt was missing from Queenslander-style homes.
Griffin was famous at the time for designing homes with a trademark cream textured finish above a red brick base and red Wunderlich roof tiles.
Set behind wrought iron front entrance gates, the home's interiors which include cornices, double French doors, leadlight windows and crystal chandeliers.
Ray White New Farm agent Christine Rudolph said the four bedroom home has been meticulously cared for by its vendors for almost two decades, chartered accountants Carmela and Paul Balbuziente, who are downsizing to be close to the water.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Art deco Ascot trophy home Lancaster listed

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The Australian developer Crown Group has unveiled its vision to build a new luxury waterfront residential precinct on the Jakarta waterfront.
The project will be the first of its kind for Indonesia, with 2000 luxury homes and its own marina, beach club and dining precinct at Ancol. 
Crown Group, based in Sydney, signed an agreement with Indonesian government organisation PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol in early 2019 to create the vertical city.
The plans will be presented to the Indonesian government for approval later this year, with it set to launch to market in 2020. 
Real estate and tourism developer PT Pembangunan Jaya Ancol Tbk is best known for developing Ancol Bay in the 1980s, the largest tourist park in South East Asia which attracts 300,000 visitors a year.
It boasts its own championship golf course, the 24-hour Ancol Dreamland amusement park, SeaWorld, various hotels, open-air markets and a marina. 
Chairman and Group CEO Iwan Sunito said the first Crown Group project in Indonesia would herald a new era for waterfront living in the island nation and set a new benchmark for residential property development in Indonesia.  
“The vision is to create a landmark that will be the jewel of Indonesia and a marina that the world hasn’t seen before,” he said.
“We will be the first to bring waterfront living to Jakarta, inspired by the world’s best – Sydney’s famous Darling Harbour and Circular Quay – through the development of vertical mixed-use residences.”  
The joint venture will see a series of towers created on a 4.7 hectare site, with a luxury waterfront living concept designed by Japanese-Australian architect Koichi Takada, based in Sydney. 
The project will bring a new level of luxury to the area, with spectacular shared facilities for residents and the public to enjoy, including a yacht club, waterfront promenade and beach club-style dining.  
The A$1 billion development will offer 9000 square metres of retail boutiques, restaurants and bars and a commercial precinct.
There will also be a network of outdoor terraces, boulevards and jogging tracks.  
The first stage is expected to be completed in 2024 with 800 apartments, a gym, spa and infinity swimming pool, and a further 1500 apartments in the second stage.  
Sunito said it will be a place where communities can come together.
"We want to create a space where people can walk through and experience the galleries, the boutiques, the restaurants and the waterfront.” 
Architect Koichi Takada said he had drawn on elements of Indonesia’s natural environment and cultural heritage to create a contemporary development with a connection back to Indonesian culture.
“The site is on the edge of the land, facing the Java Sea,” Takada said.
“As you land in Jakarta you see the Ancol development with its collection of eight high rises that almost appear like an Indonesian archipelago, rising out of the sea. So, we looked to Raja Ampat Papua, the Indonesian archipelago off the coast of West Papua also known as the Four Kings, for inspiration, and the Green Canyon in Pangandaran Beach of islands.  
“The rice terraces in Bali are culturally specific to the Indonesian landscape and we wanted to celebrate that. Jakarta is known for its heavy traffic and traffic jams, but the flow of traffic is organic, it moves like a school of fish in this energetic city.  
“Our design has parts that face the water, parts that face back to the city of Jakarta, then in between you have cascading terraced apartments and garden features, with public and residential amenities in between.
"This will give it a laneway feel, almost like going through a canyon, or the islands of the archipelago.
"It’s quite a dramatic and emotionally fluid experience to go through it.
"That to me is the character and experience of Jakarta – you go through all these traditional villages and houses in between the sky scrapers, and experience the city on a human scale, in all these in between spaces. We wanted to capture that experience.”  
President Director of PT. Pembangunan Jaya Ancol, C. Paul Tehusijarana said he was looking forward to bringing a new element of residential living to the Ancol waterfront.  
"Ancol has the advantage of being located next to the beach, plus we can collaborate with Crown Group who are experts in their field. We see the mixed-use concept combined with a world-class waterfront lifestyle can add a new sense of value to the Ancol area,” he said.
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Crown Group plans $1 billion vertical waterfront city for Jakarta

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Ray White Double Bay have recruited Ballard Property young gun Alan Fettes to their team following the hole left by number one agent Gavin Rubinstein.
Fettes, who has five years experience selling real estate in Sydney's eastern suburbs, has been billed as the youngest agent to ever earn $1 million in commission at the age of 24.
The appointment has been described by Ray White as a "dawn of a new era" for Ray White Double Bay.
Fettes was previously at Ballard Property for two years, having previously spent three years at Pillinger.
Fettes (right of the main image) has brought his sales associate Calvin Stewart with him (left of the main image).
“I’m thrilled to be joining the most successful real estate businesses in the country, Ray White Double Bay has always been an office in which I envied to be a part of," Fettes said. "The support from the agents within the office combined with the reach that the household brand provides will elevate my career to new heights.
“The processes and structures Ray White has been developing and mastering for last 117 years are in my opinion - unmatched. This will now allow me to add an extra level of service to my clients.”
Ray White Double Bay managing director Elliott Placks said now was the time to re-invigorate and add a new layer to his collaborative team.
“Bringing Alan to the team is an important step as we look towards the future. This business has been going from strength to strength for more than 32 years, and I look forward to leading the already strong sales force over the coming years,” Mr Placks said.
“Every business goes through a period of renewal from time to time and we’re thrilled to have Alan join us. No doubt he’ll bring a new sense of excitement and fresh positive energy  to our office.
“We have a team that thrives on the success of each other and we celebrate and share with each other. That is a value statement that we hold dear and very clear at Ray White Double Bay.
“Alan is an established agent and we will support his ambitions into the future.
“I am so excited about the future and since taking ownership of the flagship office in the Ray White stable, I am relishing the next phase of growth for us all."
Gavin Rubinstein, who <a href="/news/gavin-rubinstein-departs-ray-white-double-bay">departed Ray White Double Bay late last month</a>, has been kept on by the real estate giant and is <a href="/news/gavin-rubinstein-heading-to-queen-street-woollahra-under-ray-white-banner">opening his own Ray White shop in Woollahra</a>.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Ray White Double Bay hire Gavin Rubinstein replacement

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We spoke to Jordan Curran, ClarkeHopkinsClarke’s leader of the mixed-use and retail team about creating healthier, better connected and more liveable communities. We also discussed the future of city precincts, The Greater Sydney Regional Plan, ethical trading and more.

Urban.com.au: In pursuit of ClarkeHopkinsClarke’s national goal to create healthier, better connected, more liveable communities – how much support have you experienced when sharing your mission with developers, councils and buyers and has this given you more freedom to better achieve this goal?

Jordan Curran: The support is definitely growing. We always begin our discussions with stakeholders by outlining the research and precedents that show where and how this approach working – not just on our projects but in communities overseas. We’ve developed our own detailed methodology, which our Urban Design Partner Dean Landy laid out in a book called Creating Vibrant Communities, and community consultation is key. We get everyone on board early with the big vision and the way, and we then work through the detail together. You obviously can’t please everyone on every single issue, but you can address everyone’s key concerns. And that builds support because everyone’s on board and invested in success from the start.

U: Which key design features do you believe connect communities best?

JC: Public space like playgrounds and parks, especially for young families. Places where people just naturally want to come together, and they don’t cost any money. If you can create close proximity between these spaces and cafes, retail precincts and services like childcare or aged care, that’s where people start to form close relationships and bonds. They make their own connections – with each other and with the place.

U: How do you think future precincts are likely to look and what changes would you like to see made to the current town planning structure?

JC: More and more I think we’ll see purely mixed-use precincts with lots of elements embedded from the start. That’s the essence of our Creating Vibrant Communities strategy – we include as many different elements as we can so all sorts of people can use and enjoy them. Lots of developers are looking at this, and I think that’s a positive thing. Building in flexibility is becoming more important too, so precincts can change and adapt. 
Town planning at the moment almost encourages us to work in silos and tick boxes. But a very positive thing councils are doing is bringing urban designers into their teams. For better or worse they will make a decision on the merit of the project. So they’re holding a lot of sway now. They don’t just work to a tick box. They work to key urban design principles. I actually think that’s a huge positive.  It’s happening a lot in Victoria and probably needs to happen a bit more in NSW.

U: Focusing on Sydney in particular, which areas do you believe have great potential to be developed to inspire interconnectivity and community?

JC: One of the things I think will really help Sydney develop more connected communities is high-speed rail. Melbourne is built on a radius from the city, so wherever you live you’re no more than about 45 minutes from the city. Sydney doesn’t work like that. It’s more rectangular because it’s landlocked by the mountains and national park, and the new growth corridors are about an hour and a half away from the CBD. Moving forward I think high speed rail has huge potential to unlock communities along the coast north and south of Sydney.

U: What are your thoughts on The Greater Sydney Region Plan and segmenting Sydney into three cities?

JC: I think it’s a good idea. It relates back to that last question – Sydney kind of has to grow this way. To have affordable housing as Sydney grows we almost have to provide a second CBD people can connect to. The focus on Parramatta is important. I feel like they’re doing the right thing relocating the Powerhouse and other cultural and civic elements out to there so culture is accessible to everyone, not just those with access to Sydney’s CBD.

U: What does the timeline of a mixed-use precinct planning development look like? Which aspect of the design do you start with?

JC: Timing varies. The first project I did, Leopold Shopping Centre, I started as a student. By the time it was finally built I was a partner. That was a seven- or eight-year process, including planning, rezoning and market shifts. And that’s the challenge of retail precincts. During those seven years the iPhone came into existence and completely changed the whole retail space. We were quite lucky that we were already focussing on placemaking and urban design, so it works well. But if you were designing something seven years ago purely as retail and delivering it now how do you build that flexibility in? With technology every year things change so much.

We begin designs by researching benchmark projects around the world, running workshops and documenting the brief, goals and vision for the future. That initial visioning statement might be something like ‘this is a technology and innovation precinct with a focus on social connectedness’. Big picture stuff with big goals and targets that help us stay on track along the away. Project length can vary but it’s always a minimum of two years, so that’s why flexibility in design is so important. The market shifts so much in that time.

U: As technology impacts physical retail stores, how can intuitive design compete with the rise of online shopping etc.?

JC: We’re working on a model that combines bricks and mortar and online shopping because they both have their challenges. We’re looking at retail shopping centres incorporating customer fulfilment centres for online shopping. Small-scale, warehouse-style hubs that online retailers can use as a local distribution centre and for pop-ups and product testing. Online shoppers can go straight there to pick up their purchases.

Everyone talks about the challenge for retail as creating a physical experience for shoppers but that’s almost a given now. This looks at the challenges of growth for both online and bricks and mortar and how they can work together.

U: ClarkeHopkinsClarke is listed as one of three Australian architecture firms to be certified by B Corps due to the firm's social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability. Do you believe your clients and property buyers are becoming more aware of the importance of ethical trading?

JC: It’s taking a while to be honest. People like to work with designers with a social responsibility background. But at the same time developers are putting everything on the line with every project so they also need designers with the technical expertise to deliver commercial viability. Some practices focus on one and lots focus on the other, but we genuinely focus on both.

U: I’m aware you have been involved in initiating a personal development and mentoring course for the school curriculum in Sydney. What does this course cover and do you believe there is a strong push for both primary and high school students to take an interest in city planning and architecture these days?

JC: We are working with the leadership team of a high school in southern Sydney to develop a mentoring, networking and thought leadership program for senior students in suburban public high schools. We’re keen to broaden access to the kind of thought leadership and alumni that’s common for kids in private schools. The idea is to get the students challenging suburban norms, coming up with big ideas for improving their communities, and teaming up with alumni who have the networks and experience to help achieve them.

U: Which future ClarkeHopkinsClarke project are you most excited about commencing work on and why? 

JC: I’m excited about a mixed-use urban village we’ve proposed for Wollongong because it’s genuinely different to anything that exists currently. The concept is a diverse mix of uses – residential, aged care, a hotel, childcare – and a new architectural style that reflects Woolongong’s amazing landscape. What’s there is very generic. Our focus is trying to typify features like the colours of the mountains and rooftops that reference the cliffs and trees above. There’s nothing like that there at the moment.

Lead image credit: ClarkeHopkinsClarke
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Olivia Round

ClarkeHopkinsClarke's Jordan Curran discusses how to create more liveable communities

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Zetland, an intact Hawthorn home that dates back to its design by architect William J. Ellis in the 1870s, has been sold.
In need of a full scale renovation, it reportedly fetched between $3.4 million and $3.7 million, which was its price guidance. 
It was bought by a local family with four bidders at its private auction.
Set under a slate roof, Zetland is a Victorian villa that contributed to the standing of Hawthorn's river-side precinct.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hawthorn-130958986" target="_blank">The Yarra Street home </a>was an early sign of the affluent housing push which consolidated Hawthorn as a most desirable garden suburb.
<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/2019/5/29/hawt%202.jpg" alt="">
Zetland was heritage listed on the Victorian Heritage Register in 1980 and on the national register in 1991.
The 1870s were a busy time for Ellis, who was putting the finishes to the Fitzroy Town Hall tower.
There were also alterations for Studley House, Kew for James McEvoy, the Riverina squatter.
<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/2019/5/29/hawt%203.jpg" alt="">
Ellis, who was also working for brewer Edward Latham on the Carlton brewery site, ran a successful architectural practice until the 1880s, concluding with the design of the Italianiate Queenscliff hotel, Ozone formerly known as Baillieu House, and Manresa, the Catholic presbytery at the Church of Immaculate Conception on Burwood Road, Hawthorn.
He also designed Bankside, the home next door to Zetland, which last sold in 2005 at $1.76 million. It had an $900,000 renovation approved in 2012.
Zetland, that sits on 980 square metres, comes with rare seven-arch arcaded ornamental ironwork verandah and balustrading.
Its seven rooms, including four bedrooms, come with all its period features, including wide arched hallway, marble open fireplaces, timber floors and even the servants bells.
At the rear of the property is the original Hawthorn brick stable which has been converted to a garage.
The Yarra Street subdivision, one of the earliest streets in Hawthorn, saw two adjoining allotments pass from the subdivision entrepreneur George Coppin to police detective Charles Black, who commissioned two similar houses.
It was the Lerwick, Shetland Island-born accountant John Robertson who bought the home in 1876 following Black's death and named it Zetland. He and wife, Robina had eight children. 
Zetland, which was then valued at 60 pounds on completion, remained in the Robertson name until 1914, when it was valued at 66 pounds. It had peaked at 95 pounds in the late 1880s before the depression.
Elberfeld, another early Victorian villa, secured an award in the 2018 Boroondara Urban Design Awards. 
Located on Lisson Grove, architect Jane Riddell redesigned the 1876 home for her client with a rear floating pavilion to sit in John Patrick landscaped gardens with a low-maintenance Japanese aesthetic.
The council records showed the renovations were costed at $1.3 million after its $3.1 million purchase in 2014.
Its names reflected the Püttmann family's German origins.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

1870s heritage Hawthorn home Zetland sold

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The Mornington Peninsula developer Nicholas Smedley has reportedly paid $950,000 to walk away from settling on his $9 million home acquisition in Glen Iris.
Smelly had handed over his $900,000 deposit and more recently an additional $50,000 to cancel the 12 month delayed settlement deal, Nine Entertainment has reported.
It was accompanied by another buyer agreeing to purchase the Fairview Grove house for $8,050,000 – which ensured the vendor still received the originally contracted sum of $9 million.
It was sold at a private auction last May setting a record price for the suburb which had stood at $6.55 million since 2011.
It had been listed with $7 million to $7.7 million price guidance through RT Edgar Mark Wridgway who did the Saturday auction ahead of its Monday's scheduled expression of interest closing deadline.
Word of the price leaked out given the attendance of buyers' agents representing some of the six active bidders.
The 4 Fairview Grove, Glen Iris offering was a Christopher Doyle-built period home, renovated around a decade ago, on its 2000 square metre block with tennis court.
The property last sold 20 years ago at $1,178,000.
“The pre-auction shenanigans and the auction itself was a masterclass in manipulation, momentum and marvel,” one buyers' agent said, as reported by Property Observer last May.
Work recently stopped at the Continental Hotel project in Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula as developer Steller, headed by Nicholas Smedley and Simon Pitard sought funding to continue the joint-venture project it started last year with hotelier Julian Gerner.
The developer behind the $80 million project to restore the 143-year-old heritage-listed limestone hotel noted initial site works had recently been completed, "with further works slated to commence later this year", the company said in a statement.
"Continental Hotel Group is currently in the process of securing senior construction funding to finance the next stage of construction and is in discussions with major funders to secure this finance. Funding is expected to be secured by Q3."
The project will create a 100-room luxury hotel, dining and events centre.
"Construction funding for the Continental Hotel redevelopment has not fallen through," the company said.
Steller said the crane erected on site would remain in place for the next stage of work.
"Continental Hotel Group is committed to delivering the Continental Hotel as a world-class luxury hotel and hospitality venue that will attract visitors to the Peninsula year-round despite the shift in initial project timelines due to the current market," the company said.
It has been reported Smedley and Pitard are set to dissolve their business partnership having boasted a $4.2 billion pipeline of residential, mixed-use and commercial projects.
A spokesman said there was no connection between the abandoned house purchase and the plan by Smedley, a son of the late business leader Peter Smedley, to dissolve the partnership with Pitard.
"It is unrelated to what is going on with Steller," the spokesman said.
"He decided not to proceed for personal reasons and has retained the (exisiting) family home.
"The decision not to proceed was not based on a lack of funding."
Stellar was founded in 2006 by Smedley and Pitard.
Wridgway confirmed the Glen Iris property had resold before the 12-month settlement that was due to happen this week.
"Purchaser A wanted to get out to pursue other opportunities," Wridgway said.
"I found Purchaser B. We reduced the price due to market forces."
The alternative purchase happened at an unspecified date earlier this year.
Smedley removed a caveat placed over the Fairview Grove home in February.
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$9 million Glen Iris record setting trophy home resold at $8.05 million

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Day two of the annual DesignBUILD expo seminars looked at the opportunities of new technology in design and construction, a new era of luxury and the constant development of new industry practice.

Key points covered:

<ul>
<li>Evolution of smart cities</li>
	<li>Role of designers in building regulatory reform</li>
	<li>Rise of luxury in the built environment</li>
</ul>
<div class="rtecenter">RELATED ARTICLES</div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/designbuild-coverage-wrap-up-of-day-one">DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY ONE</a></div>

<div class="rtecenter"><a href="/news/designbuild-coverage-wrap-up-of-day-three">DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY THREE</a></div>

<h2> </h2>

<h2>LISA MCLEAN FROM OPEN CITIES</h2>

Open Cities CEO Lisa McLean covered the topic of urbanisation in Australia with a focus on how we must create genuine self-sustaining, liveable communities. This could be achieved through the use of smart and sustainable technologies such as renewable energy, water recycling and more.

<h2>DR SIMONE ZARPELON LEAO FROM UNSW</h2>

Dr Simone Zarpelon Leao – Associate Dean at the Faculty of Built Environment at UNSW shared insight into the connection between technology, sustainability and building resilience. Dr Simone encouraged the audience to question what kind of change will take shape as we develop smart, sustainable cities.

<h2>BRONWYN WEIR FROM WEIR LEGAL AND CONSULTING</h2>

Legal expert Bronwyn Weir discussed the pertinent topic of regulatory reform and shared her vision for the improvement of Australian building standards. Weir believes the industry must place more importance on the value of peer review and that good documentation processes must be in place throughout the course of a project – from design to completion.

<h2>MICHELLE CIESIELSKI FROM KNIGHT FRANK</h2>

Michelle Ciesielski explored the rise of luxury developments, drawing facts from Knight Frank’s recently released The Wealth Report 2019. Ciesielski noted that the changes in currency conversion rates could be causing an increase in international buyers seeking luxury property across Australia.

<h2>WILLIAM SMART FROM SMART DESIGN STUDIO</h2>

In keeping with the luxury theme, architect William Smart of Smart Design Studio said that from a design perspective, the idea of luxury is shifting as modern living requirements change. Instead, there is more of a focus on creating authentic and unpredictable spaces.
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DesignBUILD coverage: Wrap-up of DAY TWO

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The weather has played an interesting part in the property matrix over the past 18 months, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) rural report.
The valuation firm took a look at the property sales in drought-affected regions across the country. 
"Generally when we have seen depleted cash flows through lack of feed, eventually there has been a corresponding drop in market interest due to the inability to service any expansionary ideas," the valuation firm said.
"Up until recently, from our perspective, it has not had the greatest impact on the general property market however over the past eight weeks we have begun to see decisions made on farm that have been prompted by the lack of cash flow and debt servicing ability.
"While this has had some softening effect on the level of interest within the general market place there is still solid market participation at auctions and marketing campaigns, albeit at a lower level than previously experienced."
The report notes this drought impact is not as evident in the corporate sector as a majority of these purchases are undertaken with funds under management and not borrowings.
"In fact we are seeing an increase in activity of smaller corporate players at present, particularly in central New South Wales around the Forbes district where a number of the smaller entities have been active searching for properties in the $3 million to $7 million range," said the report. 
"We are aware of a transaction under contract at present in central New South Wales which does involve one of the smaller corporate entities mentioned which has been purchased on a sale and lease back agreement.
"The lease equates to a 4% return on initial investment. This would be reflective of the general market now in terms of yields with most tenanted properties in the 3.5-4% range.
"This is a reflection of the substantial increase in underlying land value which has resulted in compression of yields as tenants are unwilling and unable to afford the previously accepted yield range of 4.5-5%."
A recent sale in the Riverina which has just settled is the property called <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-cropping-nsw-barellan-700006818" target="_blank">The Peak</a>.
This property was put out for tender rather than auction and received significant interest from local landholders and nearby landholders looking to expand.
This is a 659 hectare property subdivided to five main paddocks and improved with a basic machinery shed and silo. Soils are good quality red loams typical of the area.
<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/2019/5/7/the%20peak.jpg" alt="">
The property is located 25 kilometres north- east of Barellan and 25 kilometres south-east of Weethalle.
It has now settled and indicates an overall improved value of $3,188 per hectare which equates to approximately $1,290 per acre.
This is a particularly strong sale and would be considered to be setting new benchmark levels for the area to the south of Weethalle, HTW said. 
"When we look at the property clock of an area, knowing when we have hit the top of the market is always a retrospective analysis," said the report.
"In other words, we will only know we have hit the top of the market after we have passed it. 
"We have previously reported the sale of Forest Vale (pictured below) in the southern Riverina area around Holbrook and Gundagai."
This is a 1,165 hectare open grazing property in a well-regarded location on the Hume Highway and the sale included substantial improvements including a fully renovated circa 1902 homestead.
The reported purchase price of the land was $13.25 million which equates to $11,373 per hectare overall.
<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/2019/5/7/forest%20vale%201.jpg" alt="">
"Whilst this appears only marginally in front of other smaller area sales in terms of achieved dollar per hectare rates, it is not until we know the details of the balance of the contract that we will be able to accurately assess the real price paid for the land itself.
"However after consideration of the reported price and the scale of the property involved, I believe we will look back at this sale and call it the peak of the market for this area.
"Mind you, only time will tell."
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Drought impact on Central and Southern NSW property market has been limited: HTW rural

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With all April's interruptions, Ray White offices recorded $3.2 billion in sales, some 14% down on April 2018. 
It was a bigger drop than March when there were $3.75 billion in sales – down 11% on the prior March.
NSW was down from around $960 million in April last year to $806 million this April.
But the bigger drop was in Victoria from around $587 million to $406 million last month.
In NZ, total sales fell around $30 million to $758 million. 
Tasmania was up slightly to $13 million.
With $664 million sales, Queensland was off only marginally, just 2% on last year which helped cushion the larger declines in other states, Ray White board director Dan White noted.
"Looking back on April, it was a tough month and we are actually glad it’s now behind us given all the public holidays, school holidays and the federal election campaign getting underway," White said.
White noted the Queensland CEO Tony Warland detecting from far north Queensland to the southern border that "there was a definite sign of a stronger real estate economy".
He said everyone in Townsville had a very positive belief of recovery after the floods, and life is returning to normality there.
"The Central Coast is steady and enjoying the prospects of improvement, while the Sunshine Coast is actually going gangbusters with our Kawana office recording three PBs in a row," White said.
"The whole Sunshine Coast has the lifestyle that the market is looking for while the Gold Coast is enjoying a strong economy in real estate transactions compared to the rest of the country.
"In Brisbane, many of our vendors are putting up high quality properties for high quality returns.
"So while there’s a lot of stock in many other markets, there’s no reports of stock in abundance in Brisbane but days on market are still being tested.
White also noted the group had a solid month across the group with some 1200 auctions conducted, with almost 40,000 people attending auctions across Australia and New Zealand.
Average bidders slipped back to 2.5 people per auction.
In May last year Ray White sold more than $4.1 billion of property across Australasia, which was 6% shy of May 2017.
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Ray White sees 14% year on year sales tally decline in April 2019

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Legendary Manly Sea Eagles hardman Anthony ‘Choc’ Watmough and his wife, the former model Elle McLeod, have snappily sold their five-bedroom Dee Why home.
The couple paid $1.73 ­million for the home in 2012, shortly after they got engaged and then wed a year later.
Watmough and McLeod have extensively renovated the three- level home which features a lounge and dining space with a stack stone gas fireplace which opens to a balcony with views.
The views extend over Dee Why Lagoon, Long Reef Headland and out to the ocean.
The third level master retreat comprises an ensuite, walk-in wardrobe and its own terrace. There is 410 square metres of space including balconies.
The couple bought the headland home with Elle’s late mum Leona when the extended family numbered six.
Their dream is to now find and renovate a beach cottage which would be home for the couple and their three year old daughter, Jagger, who ent­ered the world seven weeks early, weighing 2.2 kilograms.
Upstate agents Tulo Sila and Eddy Kalnian were marketing the home with a June 1 auction, with 22 groups through the first open.
The Dee Why market has seen a dip in its median prices after realestate.com.au showed the four-bedroom median peak at $1.93 million in 2017.
But the median was just $920,000 in 2012 when the Watmoughs bought on Undercliffe Street.
The couple hoped to get $2.7 million.
Last year the Watmoughs offloaded their nearby investment apartment for $750,000, it having been a $650 a week rental.
Watmough had paid $580,000 in 2013 for the two bedroom unit atop a 1970s block.
Watmough played 278 games for the Sea Eagles, pulling on the NSW Blues jersey 14 times and the national strip on 16 occasions.
He is now behind the Sydney CBD restaurant Cubby’s Kitchen.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
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