Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

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The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

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Joel Robinson

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.

They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.

Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.

“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

Breaking into the Sydney property market has long felt out of reach for many first home buyers, particularly as median house prices sit above $1.6 million and unit prices push beyond $900,000.

But entry points still exist in pockets of Greater Western Sydney, where pricing, government incentives, and product mix are aligning to make ownership more attainable.

Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

Sydney is expensive, but it isn’t uniformly expensive. The Greater Parramatta region continues to offer comparatively accessible entry points, particularly for buyers open to alternative configurations like studios.

There's an assumption that a first home needs to be a certain size, that anything smaller than a one-bedder is a concession rather than a choice. That assumption doesn't hold up against what well-designed studios in the right location actually offer: immediate liveability, strong urban amenity, and a price point that makes the deposit target realistic rather than theoretical.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-249-259-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>'s multi-award winning precinct in Merrylands, studio apartments are unlike the typical studio configuration.

Starting from $498,000, the bedroom is fully enclosed, separated from the living area by a cavity sliding door, creating a genuinely private sleeping space that functions more like a one-bedroom apartment than a traditional open-plan studio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]

At 42 sqm internally, with an open-plan kitchen, built-in robes, modern bathroom, and separate laundry, the apartments are designed for everyday liveability rather than short-term use.

With a five per cent deposit under the Federal Government's First Home Guarantee, that equates to a deposit of around $24,200, achievable for many first home buyers without the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.

Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $498,000</li>
	<li>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee): ~$24,900</li>
	<li>Loan amount: ~$473,100</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term): ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield: 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

At this level, the gap between renting and owning is relatively narrow, particularly when factoring in long-term equity, with rental returns also making the apartments a viable option for investors.

The rental range reflects current asking rents for remaining studio stock in the development and, based on prevailing asking prices, equates to an indicative gross rental yield of up to 6.47 per cent.

For buyers seeking more internal space, Mason &amp; Main also offers a range of one-bedroom apartments from $629,000, alongside larger one-bedroom plus multipurpose room configurations priced from $680,000 - all priced under $800,000 and eligible for first home buyer incentives.

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $629,000</li>
	<li>20 per cent deposit: ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li>Loan amount 80%: ~$503,200</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment: ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield:&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.

At Mason &amp; Main, studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible buyers to access a full stamp duty exemption under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.

On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.

Combined with the First Home Guarantee, which enables purchases with as little as a five per cent deposit, the total capital required to secure a home is significantly reduced compared to traditional lending pathways.

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

For first home buyers who want to move sooner rather than later, Mason &amp; Main removes one of the more common pain points from the purchase process entirely. The development is already complete and move-in ready, meaning buyers can walk through the apartments, inspect the finishes, and have full certainty about what they're purchasing before signing anything.

Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;

"The project's design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design," Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

Beyond the apartment itself, the surrounding infrastructure matters, particularly for a first purchase. Merrylands Station sits 350 metres from the development, putting the Parramatta CBD a five-minute drive away and the Sydney CBD roughly 25 minutes via the Western Line. Directly across the road is Stockland <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, one of Greater Western Sydney's major retail centres.

At street level, Mason &amp; Main's own retail and dining precinct has more than 30 tenants trading, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. Residents also have access to a resort-style pool, a Technogym-equipped gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views across Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains, all exclusive to the building.

Due to the mix of configurations, including studios which are rarely offered in today's new apartment market, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 90 per cent sold.

Coronation Property Managing Director Joe Nahas says the development is driving a revitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments in the area.

Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.

Disclaimer: Mortgage repayment figures are estimates only, based on a 6.29 per cent variable rate over a 30-year term (Canstar, April 2026). Pricing and rental estimates are indicative and based on current listings and project information. Gross yield figures are indicative and derived from asking prices and estimated rental ranges. Stamp duty savings are indicative only. Buyers should seek independent financial and legal advice before proceeding.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

How first home buyers can enter the Sydney property market for under $500k

Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.

At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

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“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”

Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.

Coronation champions terraces as a key piece of Sydney’s housing mix

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

The Melbourne-based apartment developer Caydon are the latest southern developer branching out in to Queensland.

They&#39;re starting on the popular Gold Coast, but aren&#39;t building in the heart of the popular tourist hub.

Their first project will be in Miami, just south of Mermaid Beach at the quieter, northern end of the Gold Coast.

Caydon, who always use their in house design team, has lodged plans for a boutique 18-level apartment tower with just 51 apartments, a maximum of four apartments per floor, on the Miami dress circle The Esplanade.

<a href="/new-apartments/burly-residences-north-burleigh-264-268-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

The front facade is the host of fins that represent the sunrise from the ocean, with the fins located on the opposite facade telling the story of shadows rays to fall, the design statement submitted by Caydon to the Gold Coast City Council read.

&quot;The transition of fins create unique but strong looks in each and every angles.&quot;

<img alt="" height="704" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/caydon_266_the_esplanade_miami_1.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The curves&nbsp;of the&nbsp;tower. Image credit: Caydon Design

The proposed building, at 266 The Esplanade, has been articulated to maximise ocean views.&nbsp;

There will be 35 two-bedroom apartments and 14 three-bedroom apartments, some of both configurations coming with a study, and a sprawling sub penthouse and penthouse.

<a href="/new-apartments/burly-residences-north-burleigh-264-268-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

The penthouses will span the entire level and will each have&nbsp;three bedrooms, each with their own walk-in-robes and ensuites, three balconies, two studies, and a walk in pantry behind the open plan kitchen, living and dining area.

The&nbsp;penthouse starts at level 17 and has two levels, with stairs leading up to a private rooftop terrace with a lap pool and spa, outdoor kitchen, and lounge and dining areas.

<img alt="" height="669" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/caydon_266_the_esplanade_miami_4.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The glass facade of the&nbsp;tower. Image credit: Caydon Design

The resident amenity will be located on ground level, and will feature a gym, swimming pool, a spa, a yoga lawn, and a sauna.

&quot;The recreation deck was designed to make real connection with the vibrancy and vitality that beach side living offers,&quot; the design statement continued.

Currently on The Esplanade&nbsp;block is North Burleigh Place, an old low-rise apartment building.

<img alt="" height="856" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/caydon_266_the_esplanade_miami_5.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The development will sit adjacent to parklands. Image credit: Caydon Design

The Miami - North Burleigh area is undergoing a new wave of&nbsp;urban regeneration and gentrification, according to the town planning report by Zone Planning Group.

The Esplanade itself has two new developments, 112 The Esplanade approved and under construction,&nbsp;and ALBA at 264 The Esplanade,&nbsp;currently on the council planning approval desk. Both have been designed by bureau^proberts.

The report also cited developments on First Ave and Goodwin Terrace, which are all contributing to the regeneration.

<a href="/new-apartments/burly-residences-north-burleigh-264-268-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

About the developer

Caydon are well known in Melbourne development circles,&nbsp;delivering&nbsp;100 percent of their apartment developments on time and on budget.

Since being founded in 1999 by Joe Russo, Caydon have diversified&nbsp;city skylines with&nbsp;contemporary apartments, commercial spaces, retail outlets and luxury hotels.

They currently have four projects in market, Home at Alphington, Rise at Moonee Ponds, Due North in Preston, and Coppins Corner in Cremorne,.

Their first project will be in Miami, just south of Mermaid Beach at the quieter, northern end of the Gold Coast

Caydon Property to expand in to Queensland with first Gold Coast apartment tower

A 3,873sqm Mermaid Beach development site with approval for dual residential towers has been listed through CBRE.

The site has approval for two multi-storey residential towers of 47 and 49 levels.

It was known as the Elegance project when marketed by Hubei United Investment Group, a state-owned Chinese company.

There had been 120 sales when the marketing ceased in 2019.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6998 project_image_fid=28730]

Located on the border of Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach on the Gold Coast, there are 522 apartments across two buildings.

The West tower includes 311 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

The East tower has 210 two-bed apartments.

Located at 2605 Gold Coast Highway, the site benefits from frontages to Mermaid Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6998 project_image_fid=28725]

CBRE&rsquo;s Mark Witheriff, Daniel Doran and John Nucifora are taking offers until October 28.

The site sold for $34.1 million in 2016.

The approval was granted in October 2016 which expires in October 2024.&nbsp;

The expressions of interest campaign closes October 28.

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Stalled Elegance, Mermaid Beach apartment development site listed

There&#39;s a fresh opportunity for the luxury Gold Coast apartment buyer, with the local developer Cru Collective launching sales for Sur Kirra Beach, their hotly anticipated boutique residential tower on the Coolangatta dress circle Musgrave Street.

Cru, led by managing director Chris Bolger, are offering just the 10 apartment across the 13-level tower which has been&nbsp;designed by BDA Architecture. BDA&nbsp;was&nbsp;inspired by the longboards that established the Kirra surfing culture in the 1960s.

The unique site pocket at 2 Musgrave Street allows for a distinct floor plan that is fin like in shape, capturing views from every angle of the property.

Crowning the development will be a two-level penthouse.&nbsp;

Bolger expects buyers to be predominantly locals.

&quot;The location is iconic and we have an extensive waiting list of people from the immediate area or those that have holidayed in Kirra or rainbow Bay for years,&quot; Bolger says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102920 project_image_fid=180635]

&quot;It&#39;s a&nbsp;very nostalgic location for loyal Kirra fans.&quot;

Apartments in Sur, meaning above and beyond, will span&nbsp;300 sqm apartments will have three ensuited bedrooms, including a huge master wing with walk-in wardrobe, two living areas, a kitchen with butler&#39;s pantry, wine cellar, and a dry bar with built in ice maker.

Each apartment will have their own private foyer, direct from the lift.

Balconies have been oriented to face east, to capture views from Rainbow Bay to Stradbroke Island, with the rear balconies to look back to the hinterland, offering views that will never be built out.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102920 project_image_fid=180640]

Cru Collective decided to refine the already approved plans, which saw the levels, and in turn apartments, reduced.

Bolger said the size was dropped to make Sur more in-keeping with Kirra Beach.

&ldquo;At the heart of Cru Collective&rsquo;s design approach is the desire to create exceptional living spaces in extraordinary locations that meet the expectation of the sophisticated buyer,&rdquo;&nbsp;Bolger said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102920 project_image_fid=180639]

&ldquo;By reducing the volume of apartments and raising ceiling heights of the original plans for the Kirra site we will deliver spaciousness and opulence that is typically reserved for high-end standalone houses.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102920 project_image_fid=180035]

Prices start from $4 million, with the price yet to be established for the&nbsp;penthouse.

The resident amenity occupies a whole level, and will home an oceanfront pool, a beachfront fitness centre, and a sauna. 
 
&ldquo;Sur Kirra Beach is our latest commitment to always producing premium quality homes that substitute the conventional high density apartment trope for a boutique approach to vertical living,&quot; Bolger added.

&ldquo;Over the past few months since we acquired the site, we have already received an astounding amount of local and national interest in what will be a striking addition to the Kirra beachfront. It&rsquo;s such a unique and iconic location.&rdquo;

Cru Collective is launching Sur Kirra Beach with a view to commencing construction in early 2022.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102920 project_image_fid=180639]

<h2>About the developer</h2>

The local Gold Coast-based Cru Collective have a proven track record, selling out&nbsp;Acqua in Palm Beach and Arcadia Rise in Currumbin.

The award-winning developer has more than a decade of experience in residential and commercial property across south-east Queensland,&nbsp;currently delivering a development pipeline totalling $150 million in projects.

Sur Kirra Beach follows the sell-out and completion of Cru Collective&rsquo;s $40 million Siarn Palm Beach North apartment project.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=102920]

The resident amenity occupies a whole level, and will home an oceanfront pool, a beachfront fitness centre, and a sauna

Inside Cru Collective's new luxury Kirra Beach apartment development, Sur Kirra Beach

Mali Residences, Mermaid Beach features in Gold Coast Open House, this weekend, October 16.

Gold Coast Open House is an annual event unlocking the doors of interesting and architecturally significant buildings and locations across the city for all to explore for free.

The recently completed apartment project at 4-6 Alexandra Avenue, Mermaid Beach was undertaken by Dankav Developments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9088 project_image_fid=56808]

Mali Residences offered 55 contemporary residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, with apartments priced from $435,000.

The 16th floor penthouse fetched $4,295,000.

Designed by BDA Architecture, the project features a striking façade, open-plan entertaining spaces and luxury amenities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9088 project_image_fid=28703]

The space has been formed by a series of intertwined components – an open lobby, podium parking featuring a generous green foliage wall facing north, lower residential with five units per floor, a break in the built form to showcase an entire floor dedicated to lifestyle and recreational boasting views of the sand and the water along with upper residential of three units per floor.

Located on the ninth floor is a range of leisure facilities, including a resort-style pool, sauna, gym and residents’ lounge. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
With the easing of Stage 2 restrictions last Friday on the Gold Coast, the Open House opportunity has arisen.

GCOH bookings are required via eventbrite.

Mali Residences saw apartments priced from $435,000

Mali Residences, Mermaid Beach featuring in Gold Coast Open House 2021

Heran Building Group has introduced their luxury four-bedroom townhomes in Burdell, North Shore Residences.

&ldquo;North Shore is a place where a better lifestyle comes naturally, where neighbours know each other by name and the daily essentials are already just moments from your doorstep&rdquo;, the developers said.

Located in a growing Townsville suburb, Burdell is increasingly in demand due to its reputation as a safe, friendly and conveniently located area.

Priced from $372,900, each four-bedroom home features two bathrooms, double lock-up garages, and a modern kitchen with&nbsp;stone benchtops and&nbsp;European appliances, including a stainless-steel multifunction oven, cook-top, rangehood and stainless-steel dishwasher.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106962 project_image_fid=170457]

Each townhome has a&nbsp;fully-fenced private yard.

Within the development is a communal&nbsp;swimming pool and ample visitor parking.

Ducted air-conditioning is built into the homes, as are&nbsp;roller blinds and venetians.

Only 15 minutes to the Townsville CBD, North Shore is cleverly positioned for strong ongoing demand thanks to its proximity to important hubs including employment, education, major shopping, arterial roads, and public transport.

Burdell feeds directly into the growing employment node of Townsville and surrounding suburbs via Woolcock St.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106962 project_image_fid=170458]

The A1 is also only minutes away, providing easy access to all employment locations in the greater Townsville areas.

According to the developers, the expected rental return is approximately $290 to $380 per week, boasting rental yields of 4.37 per cent to 5.52 per cent per annum

The home is located in an evolving location, with two new shopping centres nearby, including North Shore Shopping Centre and the Stockland Townsville Shopping Centre, and the Townsville Grammar School.

Surrounding suburbs also offer a diverse range of amenities from medical, health, retail services and casual dining and takeaway options

Construction on the project began in May, due to reach completion in late 2021.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=106962]

Located in a growing Townsville suburb, Burdell is increasingly in demand due to its reputation as a safe, friendly and conveniently located area. 

max.kwok_55688

Brand new four-bedroom Townsville townhomes from $372,900

The award-winning&nbsp;Queensland developer, Aria Property Group, are taking the resident amenity to the next level in the latest South Brisbane apartment development, Trellis.

They&#39;re offering residents offer 1,100 sqm of facilities scattered throughout the 13-level, Rothelowman-designed development, crowned by the most impressive amenity of all, the Residents&#39; Rooftop Club.

That will feature&nbsp;an&nbsp;infinity pool with views across Brisbane, a hot &amp; cold magnesium bath, a lounge, public barbecue areas, and a private dining room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108278 project_image_fid=173599]

The ground-level homes the Temple of Wellness, designed to be in-keeping with the lush foliage throughout the development.

A series of&nbsp;gardens line the path&nbsp;to the Temple of Wellness, where residents will walk through the cascading waterfall to&nbsp;a fully equipped fitness centre and meditation zone, home to weights, pilates reformers, cardiovascular equipment and meditation pods.

Aria Living also offers complimentary group yoga and group personal training fortnightly.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108278 project_image_fid=173615]

Residents at Trellis will also have access to&nbsp;a podcast/boardroom, serving as a multi-use space for working at home. There&#39;s also a&nbsp;Residents&rsquo; Wine Cellar.

Apartments in Trellis start from $739,000 for an apartment with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Three-bedroom apartments are priced from $1,084,000.

Completion is slated for mid-2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108278]

The ground-level homes the Temple of Wellness, designed to be in-keeping with the lush foliage throughout the development

jordan_55689

Aria offer over 1,100 sqm of resort-style amenity at Trellis, South Brisbane apartments

Aria Property Group always have a steady stream of interest from off the plan investors&nbsp;in their Brisbane apartment developments.

Investors who bought in to one of Aria&#39;s most recently completed developments, The Standard, Aria, located in the heart of the Fish Lane arts precinct, saw great success.

Those who bought pre-completion have secured resales between 10 per cent and 38 per cent more than what they paid.&nbsp;Owner-occupiers showed the greatest keenness on the resales.

The investors who decided to hold on&nbsp;to their apartments are seeing&nbsp;strong 5.48 per cent rental yields throughout the building.

Aria&#39;s latest development, Trellis, also in South Brisbane, is also expected to be a hit with investors.

The&nbsp;12-story building with 110 apartments is Aria&#39;s most sustainable yet, with&nbsp;60 percent of the building covered in greenery of some variety. It will feature&nbsp;trellises within which improve biodiversity, as well as solar technology and even Tesla batteries and charging stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108278 project_image_fid=173592]

There&#39;s&nbsp;over 1,000 sqm of recreational amenity space, including the Temple of Wellness on the ground floor and the Residents&rsquo; Rooftop Club on level 13. That features magnesium baths and an infinity pool with views across Brisbane. Amenity is also high on the priority list for tenants.

Apartments in Trellis start from $739,000 for a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment. Three-bedroom apartments are priced from $1,084,000 to $1,224,000.

Completion is forecast for mid-2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108278 project_image_fid=173613]

The Brisbane&nbsp;apartment market has continued to show strength over 2021, after a resilient 2020 in the wake of the pandemic.

Research from property data firm CoreLogic showed Brisbane&nbsp;apartment&nbsp;values rose 0.6&nbsp;per cent over September, triple&nbsp;the&nbsp;growth of apartments in Melbourne.

At the end of 2020, the median apartment value in Brisbane was at a yearly high of $390,000. Now it&#39;s $430,000.

Unit rental prices have also seen steady growth in 2021, up&nbsp;3.5 per cent over the past 12 months.

This&nbsp;growth trend is expected to continue, backed in large part by billions of dollars in investment from both private and public sectors as part of the pipeline for the 2032 Olympics.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108278]

Aria Property Group have pushed the envelope not only on sustainability but value at their newest tower, Trellis in South Brisbane

Why investors snap up apartments in Aria Property Group's Brisbane apartment developments

The luxury Palm Beach apartment market continues to gather steam, and with that is a solid pipeline of luxury apartment developments.

The latest to launch is Ocean House, a boutique collection of just eight full-floor apartments by the&nbsp;Sydney-based developer Macquarie York.

The approved development has been designed by the local architecture firm&nbsp;BDA Architects, who say the striking building is&nbsp;sculpted&nbsp;from inspiration from the surrounding natural environment of the movement of water and sand.

&quot;Expressive architecture portrays a sense of subtropical architecture&quot; BDA advise in their design statement, with architectural elements of sun hoods, moveable screens, large balconies and deep roof eaves.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22108 project_image_fid=179623]

The apartments, priced from $2.9 million, each span 200 sqm and have three bedrooms, as well as a media/multi-purpose room.

There will be shared resident amenity in a resort-style pool, dedicated barbecue and dining areas, and landscaping throughout.

&ldquo;Ocean House will embody the finest luxury touches, alongside thoughtful additions that are made for practical liveability&rdquo; Macquarie York founder Roy Skaf said.

The apartments, at 1101 Gold Coast Highway, will back&nbsp;onto Palm Beach Surf Club, placing residents with prime access to the heart of Palm Beach&rsquo;s ambient caf&eacute; and dining culture. The apartments will have views over the water and the hinterland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22108 project_image_fid=179621]

&ldquo;Palm Beach is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after suburbs on the Gold Coast, and for good reason,&rdquo;&nbsp;Skaf said.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s home to the coast&rsquo;s most pristine beachfront, packed with a sensational caf&eacute; and restaurant scene, and remains close to key Gold Coast attractions all while retaining that idyllic relaxed coastal energy.&rdquo;

Drawing inspiration from its natural surrounds, Ocean House residences are designed in an earthy colour palette, with ample storage and high-end finishes.

&ldquo;The superior quality of these homes coupled with their incredible location has been deliberately designed with owner-occupiers and holiday makers in mind,&rdquo; Skaf added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22108 project_image_fid=179622]

Ocean House is Macquarie York&#39;s second apartment project on the Gold Coast, having achieved&nbsp;a near sell-out of its debut&nbsp;project, the $77 million Allure development on Chevron Island.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=22108]

Drawing inspiration from its natural surrounds, Ocean House residences are designed in an earthy colour palette, with ample storage and high-end finishes.

Inside the latest luxury Palm Beach apartment development, Ocean House

Gold Coast apartment seekers, who are getting frustrated as developments continue to sell out prior to launch, are expected to have more of an opportunity when the construction of Markwell finally gets underway.

The Surfers Paradise Boulevard site, where the 47-level, 210 apartment Markwell was given development approval for in 2015 by its owners Citimark Properties, is set to be sold, with developers already showing interest on&nbsp;the&nbsp;dress circle address just 200 metres from the beach.

The approved plans for Markwell, located at 2983-2991 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, have been designed by BDA Architecture&nbsp;and include&nbsp;552sqm of retail space.

There will be a mix of two-bedroom, two-bathroom and three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments, the latter targeting the downsizer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21723]

It&#39;s a rarity for such a prime piece of real estate to come with development approval, GV Property Group Director Antonio Mercuri, who is handling the marketing with CBRE.

&ldquo;While the demand is at an all-time high, there&rsquo;s a scarcity of sites available, and even less on-market with DA approval, making parcels of land like this one an incredible and rare opportunity,&rdquo; Mercuri said.

Mercuri said now is the time to invest in the Gold Coast, with a strong market outlook market post the pandemic peak.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve seen a significant influx of interest and sales in the Gold Coast market in recent months.

&quot;With international travel still limited and many interstate Australians looking for a sea change after a challenging couple of years, the Gold Coast market has never been stronger.&quot;

<img alt="" height="801" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gv_property_surfes_bvld_1.jpg" width="1200" /> 
CBRE Gold Coast Managing Director Mark Witheriff&nbsp;said it&#39;s&nbsp;exciting to see a site of this calibre on-market at a time of tremendous confidence in the Gold Coast market.

&quot;Markwell provides an opportunity to develop in the enormously popular Surfers Paradise hub, which usually attracts some 5.1 million visitors from around Australia and across the globe and has a growing resident population.&rdquo;

Located on the corner of Markwell Avenue and Surfers Paradise Boulevard, the site is primely positioned in close proximity to the Q1 precinct and the new light rail. The site was last transacted in June 2015 for $11 million to Citimark Properties and now has a potential gross realisation value of circa $200 million.

Citimark Properties are offloading the site as they shift their focus to their other projects across their portfolio, which includes a soon-to-be-launched Chevron Island development, Mirador.

&quot;Six years on, we look forward to seeing Markwell come to life, led by its new owners,&quot; John Bowman, development director at Citimark, said.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=21723]

The approved plans for Markwell, located at 2983-2991 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, have been designed by BDA Architecture and include 552sqm of retail space.



Developers eye Surfers Paradise apartment development site, once proposed for luxury Markwell tower

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

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

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Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News