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

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

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

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

Chevron One, the luxury apartment tower on Chevron Island, is one step closer, as the Melbourne-based developer Bensons have appointed the well regarded and experienced construction firm, ICON, to build the 41-level building.

Construction will begin October 11 on what will be the only high-rise on the island, with the build&nbsp;expected to take just over three years to complete. Bensons are aiming for completion before Christmas 2024.

ICON are one of Australia and New Zealand&#39;s largest and most experienced construction providers. Currently that have over 75 buildings under construction, including the sell-out Signature Broadbeach tower nearby.

They&#39;ve previously built the modern Auckland apartment, retail and hotel tower, The Pacifica, and recently signed off on the luxury Circular Quay, Sydney apartment development, The Harrington Collection.

On the appointment, Bensons Property Group Managing Director Rick Curtis said&nbsp;&ldquo;For us, it&rsquo;s about selecting a builder who is able to not only execute our commitment to the design, quality and timely delivery of Chevron One, but one that can do so in a way that reflects our company mission to deliver exceptional living, whilst making a positive contribution to local communities&rdquo;.

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Luke Young, ICON Director of QLD, WA and NT, called Chevron One a landmark project for the Gold Coast.

&quot;ICON are proud to be partnering with Bensons for the construction of the project of such significance. Bensons have an established reputation of developing high quality apartments, which is something that we pride ourselves on being able to offer,&quot; Young said.

&quot;We are excited to be underway.&quot;

Chevron One is the vision of the Bensons chairman,&nbsp;philanthropist and art patron&nbsp;Elias Jreissati, who spends a considerable amount of time each year on the Gold Coast with his wife Colleen.

He wants to create an offering that epitomises understated luxury that Melbourne is accustomed to, combined with uninterrupted panoramic views over Surfers Paradise, all within an exclusive island location.

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Bensons has&nbsp;just released their Daylight Sky Homes collection, occupying the upper levels of the tower, with the best, never-to-be-built-out views of Surfers Paradise. They start from&nbsp;$1.5 million, and range up to $15 million, the price tag for the huge 1,000 sqm sub penthouse.

They held back the apartments, but there has been such demand for luxury, larger apartments in the area.

Jreissati will be hanging on to the penthouse, the largest ever created on the Gold Coast spanning nearly 2,000 sqm.

Designed by global architecture practice Marchese Partners, Chevron One is built on the principle of a strong integration between indoor/outdoor living, with oversized balconies one of the key liveability factors.

There&#39;s around 2,000 sqm of resident amenity, including two pools (one an outdoor lagoon style with a floating cinema and one indoor),&nbsp;an indoor/outdoor beach, a gym, a number of spas, a residents&nbsp;lounge with BBQ area and an outdoor sun-lounge on the podium level.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6515]

Bensons appoint ICON to build luxury Chevron Island apartment tower, Chevron One

Brisbane apartment values continued to grow over September, figures from the property data firm CoreLogic found.

In their monthly index, CoreLogic found that Brisbane values rose 0.6 per cent over September.

It was a return to a normal growth pattern for Brisbane, following a 1.4 per cent growth spike over August. Prior to the spike, there were 0.8 per cent gains in July and 0.7 per cent gains in June.

The 2.8 per cent rolling quarterly gains, more than double the gains seen in Melbourne, see values 8.3 per cent higher than at the start of 2021.

Back then the median value was $390,000. Now it&#39;s $430,000.

The price gap between houses and units in Brisbane however has widened, with Brisbane&#39;s median house price standing at $709,000, around $280,000 higher than the median apartment price.

New listings in Brisbane are slowly on the up ahead of the traditional listing increase in spring. The same can be said for Adelaide, Perth and Hobart, however the trend remains weak in the locked-down&nbsp;Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra.

Queensland has benefitted from record low vacancy rates, with southern state dwellers heading north during the pandemic over 12 months ago.

The June 2021 quarter data from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland showed that nearly&nbsp;two thirds of local government areas in Queensland recorded their lowest or equal lowest residential vacancy rates since 2010.

Of the 35 local government areas, 20 saw their vacancy rates tighten, 10 remained static and five saw them slightly rise in the June quarter.

Brisbane&rsquo;s vacancy rate dropped from 2.1 per cent&nbsp;to 1.7 per cent&nbsp;from the previous quarter. The Gold Coast&rsquo;s remained static at a tight 0.6 per cent&nbsp;and the Sunshine Coast&rsquo;s was slightly higher, from 0.5 per cent&nbsp;to 0.6 per cent.

<h2>Urban&#39;s top Brisbane projects</h2>

1. Trellis, South Brisbane

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Aria Property Group are a decorated Queensland developer who have continued to improve sustainability across their South East Queensland residential apartment developments with their&nbsp;newest tower, Trellis.

Described as both the most sustainable and livable to date, all 110 of the two and three bedroom apartments in the 12 story building&nbsp;have been designed by Rothelowman.

Reminiscent of an urban retreat, Trellis reflects a new style of resort living with 1,119 sqm of recreational amenity across the Temple of Wellness on the ground floor and the Residents&rsquo; Rooftop Club on level 13.&nbsp;

Apartments in Trellis start from $739,000 for a two-bedroom,&nbsp;two-bathroom apartment. Three-bedroom apartments are priced from $1,084,000 to $1,224,000.

2. Bide, Newstead

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163979]

Bide is the latest Newstead residential offering by Dibcorp Properties. It has been designed in collaboration with architects from Twohill &amp; James, Lat27 and Wiltshire Stevens Architecture.

It presents a new way of inner-city-living, with a range of special inclusions and an urban green space exclusively for residents to relax, unwind and even work from home.

Bide comprises 89 spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments just three kilometres from the CBD.

Two-bedroom apartments start from $635,000.

3. Silk Lane, Woolloongabba

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107345 project_image_fid=172022]

Silk Lane&nbsp;will give residents the best seats in the house when the sporting arena is back in a post-lockdown world.

The building&rsquo;s architectural fa&ccedil;ade, designed by&nbsp;Nettleton Tribe Architects, draws inspiration from the angular shapes of metal structure incorporated in the neighbouring Brisbane cricket ground, The Gabba.&nbsp;The appropriately named Skystand will look over the wicket for The Ashes, and the main hub of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic track and field events.

Developed by Sarazin, Silk Lane will home&nbsp;306 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Prices start from $449,000.

4. Rivello, Hamilton

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There&#39;s only a handful of apartments left at Rivello, the luxury apartment development by Brookfield Properties in Hamilton.

The 21-level building designed by&nbsp;Cottee Parker Architects has netted over 80 per cent of sales of the block of 150 apartments.

Brookfield Residential&nbsp;Properties&rsquo; Managing Director, Lee Butterworth, said buyers had responded well to Rivello.

&ldquo;There is certainly significant demand for Brisbane property in the current market and buyers recognise Rivello represents a rare opportunity to purchase a new apartment in a building on the Brisbane River,&rdquo; he said.

&nbsp;

The 2.8 per cent rolling quarterly gains, more than double the gains seen in Melbourne, see values 8.3 per cent higher than at the start of 2021

Brisbane apartment insights: What happened to Brisbane apartment values in September?

Any fears of oversupply across the Gold Coast were well and truly quelled in September, with data form Urbis suggesting that, if the current sales demand continues&nbsp;and no new developments are released, there would only be around four months of apartments left.

There&#39;s been a continued uptake in residential apartment projects, with some developers still seeing exceptional results in the early weeks of launching.

Urban has wrapped up all of the moves in the apartment market

Chevron One adds further level of luxury, with the new Sky Homes release featuring the Gold Coast&rsquo;s biggest ever penthouse

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Chevron One, set to reign as Chevron Island&#39;s only luxury high-rise apartment tower, is about to achieve another level of luxury the Gold Coast hasn&#39;t seen before.

The Melbourne-based Bensons Property Group has released its Sky Home collection, starting from levels 31 and rising to level 41, soaring nearly 100 metres in the air. Bensons hadn&#39;t released the high-level apartments, but are now seeing high demand in ultra-luxury, large apartments in the sky.

When complete, Chevron One will be the tallest tower on the exclusive island, and the tallest there ever will be, with the Gold Coast City Council two years ago bringing in strict planning laws, limiting future apartment projects to 33 metres, or 12 storeys.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/chevron-one-adds-further-level-of-luxury-with-the-new-sky-homes-release-featuring-the-gold-coast-s-biggest-ever-penthouse">click here.</a>

Victoria &amp; Albert Broadbeach set to launch in October 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928]

The Victoria &amp; Albert Broadbeach apartment project marketing campaign will commence in October through Colliers.&nbsp;

The $800 million mixed-use development will feature more the 330 apartments across two residential towers rising 30 and 40 levels.&nbsp;Construction is expected to begin mid next year and take two years to complete, the first of many Gold Coast projects envisaged by&nbsp;Iris Capital, Sydney developer, Sam Arnaout.

The East tower known as The Albert will comprise 114 two, three and four-bedroom apartments over 30 levels.

The west tower, known as The Victoria, will rise over 40 levels and deliver 219 apartments of one, two and three bedrooms.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/victoria-albert-broadbeach-set-to-launch-in-october">click here</a>.

Final five apartments released in Chevron Island&#39;s Allure as locals dominate sales

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33509]

The final five apartments in the sought-after Allure development on&nbsp;Chevron Island&nbsp;have been released to the market, at a time where the supply of new apartments is nearing record lows.

Each of the apartments left in the Macquarie York-developed, BDA Architect-designed building at 26-28 Dalpura Street, have three bedrooms and a multi-purpose room.

Macquarie York founder Roy Skaf said that the timing of launching Allure, which has netted over $72 million in sales,&nbsp;coincided with a demand for high-quality residences in the heart of the Gold Coast.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/final-five-apartments-released-in-chevron-islands-allure-as-locals-dominate-sales">click here</a>.

Locals, Sydneysiders and Melburnians swoop on Esprit, S&amp;S Projects Rainbow Bay apartments

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

It took just a weekend soft launch for the luxury developer S&amp;S Projects to secure over half of the sales in its latest Gold Coast apartment development, Esprit.

Esprit, at 217-227 Boundary Street, in the sought-after Rainbow Bay location in Coolangatta, sold over half of the 97 apartments on offer in the two interconnected Cottee Parker-designed buildings.

No surprise in the quick-fire sales by KM Sales and Marketing agent Jayde Pezet given the location, the fact Esprit is crowned by Club Esprit, the Gold Coast&#39;s first ever residents-only rooftop wellness centre, and the size of the apartments.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/locals-sydneysiders-and-melburnians-swoop-on-esprit-s-s-projects-rainbow-bay-apartments">click here</a>.

Exclusive first look: Hirsch &amp; Faigen lodge plans for Mermaid Beach apartment tower, Yves

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102451 project_image_fid=179069]

Following the launch of its boutique&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;apartment development&nbsp;The Emerson, the Melbourne-based developer Hirsch &amp; Faigen are on to their next project.

They&#39;ve lodged plans for their recently acquired 1,905 sqm Mermaid Beach site, 7-9 Mermaid Avenue&nbsp;at the northern end of Mermaid Beach,&nbsp;which was bought back in June.

H&amp;F, led by the Melbourne lawyer Daniel Faigen and Richard Hirsch, has had&nbsp;ROTHELOWMAN&nbsp;design Yves, which will comprise three&nbsp;25-level towers. They will home a total of&nbsp;145 apartments.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/exclusive-first-look-hirsch-faigen-lodge-plans-for-mermaid-beach-apartment-tower-yves">click here.</a>

Brisbane-based developer Siera lodges Chevron Island apartment development plans

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=179071]

The Brisbane-based development and construction firm, Siera Property Group, are the latest in a wave of developers heading to the Gold Coast for the first time.

Seira, headed by the managing director&nbsp;and founder Brent Thompson, has laid plans on the sought-after&nbsp;Chevron Island&nbsp;for a 17-level project dubbed Tapestry, paying homage to the Island&#39;s new Home of the Arts precinct.

The plans by the local BDA Architecture will see 83 apartments built on&nbsp;a 1,518&nbsp;sqm site at&nbsp;39-43 Darrambal Street, toward the southern end of the island.

Thompson, who sits on the board of UDIA QLD and chairs the Brisbane&nbsp;City Council&nbsp;Policy&nbsp;Committee, sees it as a shift in thinking for the company, who made their name in the Queensland capital developing luxury townhouses in Brisbane&#39;s inner ring.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/brisbane-based-developer-siera-lodges-tapestry-chevron-island-apartment-development-plans">click here</a>.

Sherpa branch out from Palm Beach, lodge plans for Perspective Broadwater in Biggera Waters

The Gold Coast developer Sherpa Property, who have been developing and finalising plans for a number of luxury apartment projects in Palm Beach, are broadening their horizons.

Sherpa, led by chief executive&nbsp;Christie Leet, are continuing the trend of their Perspective collection in&nbsp;Biggera Waters,&nbsp;lodged plans for a boutique apartment development overlooking The Broadwater at 536 Marine Parade.

The exclusive building will have just seven apartments, six full-floor, three-bedroom apartments&nbsp;and&nbsp;a two-storey penthouse overlooking Broadwater and the surrounding parklands.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/sherpa-branch-out-from-palm-beach-lodge-plans-for-perspective-broadwater-in-biggera-waters">click here</a>.

There's been a continued uptake in residential apartment projects, with some developers still seeing exceptional results in the early weeks of launching

Gold Coast apartment insights: What happened on the Gold Coast in September

The Monaco, the luxury Main Beach apartment development by the local developer Ignite Projects,&nbsp;has secured a sell-out.

The Rothelowman-designed,&nbsp;24-level tower, with just 24 half and full-floor apartments, sold with an&nbsp;average sale price of $4.6 million. The penthouse secured $9.5&nbsp;million when bought by a Sydney buyer, who was in lockdown at the time of purchase.

The tower will rank as one of, if not the most expensive on the Gold Coast, not counting&nbsp;the smaller, boutique beachfront projects that might only rise five or six levels.

&nbsp;It&#39;s not the first time&nbsp;Ignite boss&nbsp;Josh Foote has seen stellar results recently, having quickly knocked over his apartment development at&nbsp;Palm Beach.

They sold out Cabana, a collection of 32 beachfront apartment, in six weeks, one of the quickest sell-outs the Gold Coast had seen for a long time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730 project_image_fid=83445]

&quot;The Monaco naturally took a little longer, given the near $5 million average apartment price&quot;, Foote says.

&quot;The buyer pool is considerably smaller, less than one per cent of buyers can spend that much.&quot;

&ldquo;The building is setting a new standard for the suburb, which is getting a well-deserved facelift thanks to the $205 million revitalisation of the Spit to turn it into the Gold Coast&rsquo;s version of Hyde Park and a 300-berth marina at The Southport Yacht Club.&rdquo;

The Monaco saw a mix of local buyers, and those interstate from Sydney and Melbourne, NPA Projects Director Andrew Erwin, who exclusively handled the sales, said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730 project_image_fid=83447]

&quot;It will be a second home for a lot of the buyers, but some will be calling it home&quot;, Erwin told Urban.

The Sydney-based buyer of the expansive two-level 630 sqm penthouse was impressed by the design and unrivalled location, and plans to use it for his &lsquo;forever home&rsquo;.

Construction is now underway by McNab Builders, with an estimated completion date of 2023.

Foote says there&#39;s no surprise to see the heightened demand for the Gold Coast, which he expects to continue now the country has seen what locals have seen for years.

&quot;It&#39;s just all about lifestyle, 100 per cent&quot;.

The developer worked on a few projects with a friend in his native Auckland before moving to the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730 project_image_fid=140973]

&quot;It wasn&#39;t the value of the Gold Coast that brought me here, it was the lifestyle, and then the value become apparent.&quot;

Foote expects to be heading back to the Southern end of the Gold Coast for his next development, but like many in the industry, is finding it difficult to find a suitable site, for the right price.

&quot;I like developing down there. It&#39;s where I live, and it&#39;s probably the most beautiful part of the Gold Coast.

&quot;But it&#39;s that competitive at the moment, it&#39;s hard to find a site that will stack up. Land value is so high due to the demand for houses in desirable locations, even really old houses where an interstate buyer can knock down and rebuild and still see value.&quot;

He reckons great sites with any development potential have nearly doubled in price in the last 12 months or so. Crazy times.

Construction is now underway by McNab Builders, with an estimated completion date of 2023

The Monaco, Main Beach secures sell-out as one of Gold Coast's most expensive apartment towers

The longstanding South East Queenslander developer, Drew Group, have submitted plans for their next project.

It&#39;s set in the heart of Main Beach at 11 Cronin Avenue, where they have plans to develop two soaring apartment towers dubbed Lagoon Main Beach.

Drew Group, led by Jonathan Drew since 2005, have history in the area and know it well,&nbsp;having previously created the 16-level, 29-apartment developer Cerulean on&nbsp;Pacific Street.

&ldquo;As a local I feel an overwhelming responsibility to deliver an outstanding result for the Main Beach community and the future residents of Lagoon and this concept will be the central focus throughout the project until future residents move in,&quot; Drew said.

The company, founded in the early 1980s, have recently developed&nbsp;The Beach Houses, a collection of 15 luxury villas at Kirra Point, and their latest project The Village, 72 apartments and beach houses at Palm Beach.&nbsp;That was the fastest selling project in the Gold Coast over 2019 and 2020, securing all of the apartments in just three months.

Lagoon Main Beach will be one of their&nbsp;highest&nbsp;density projects, homing 248 apartments across two towers. It will be set however across a sprawling 4,000 plus sqm site, an amalgamation not seen since the 1980s. Drew Group will reduce&nbsp;the seven existing cross overs to just three.

The towers&nbsp;will be linked by a central resort-style heated swimming pool and spa area, hence the name Lagoon. Here will also be barbecue areas, pool lounges, and a 65 sqm gym with treatment rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=188180]

Tower 1 will be the larger of the two towers, soaring 31 levels in to the sky and having 137 apartments. It&#39;s a mix of 100&nbsp;two-bedroom apartments, which start from 91 sqm of internal space, and 34 three-bedrooms which start from 154 sqm of living area. The typical floorplan will see five apartments per floor, up until level 27, where the larger three-bedroom sub-penthouses start.

The three four-bedroom penthouses&nbsp;start from level 30 and are spread across two levels.&nbsp;The ground level homes three of the four bedrooms, as well as the kitchen living and dining space. Upstairs is the master suite, a media room, and a huge terraces reaching over 100 sqm terrace with outdoor kitchen, dining area, and private plunge pool.

Tower 2 will rise 23 levels and have 111 apartments, a breakdown of 89 two-bed apartments and 22 three-bedders.

Both will have level 15 residential lounge, where there will be a focus on the new work from home life, with a number of work from home booths, a meeting room,&nbsp;multi purpose rooms&nbsp;and terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=188175]

Drew Group appointed Plus Architects to design the development with sustainability, environmental, infrastructure and urban renewal at the forefront of their brief resulting in a well crafted design that answers the needs of modern apartment living.

The towers have been oriented to maximise the views by Plus, who say it&#39;s all about the water.

&quot;[It&#39;s] beach side living with resort-style lifestyle&quot;, Plus wrote in their submission to the Gold Coast City Council.

&quot;The design is approached with simple vision inspired by the rolling waves and soft natural forms of the coastline,&quot; the executive summary by Plus read.

&quot;The towers are shaped to enhance the visual experience of its residents, forming undulating waves along the Northern and Southern facades generating a highly articulated form. The stagger of building form direct views from each apartment, providing a curated experience of the coastline and hinterlands.&quot;

The towers will be set in landscaping by&nbsp;FORM Landscape Architecture, who have focused on the landscape vision to connect to the poolside, create a statement identity on arrival, instal vertical greenery on the tower, and engage ground landscape and street interface.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=188174]

<h2>Executive Summary</h2>

The design is approached with simple vision inspired by the rolling waves and soft natural forms of the coastline. The towers are shaped to enhance the visual experience of its residents, forming undulating waves along the Northern and Southern facades generating a highly articulated form.

The stagger of building form direct views from each apartment, providing a curated experience of the coastline and hinterlands. These elegant forms are reinforced by adopting a refined and timeless palette.

The proposed design provides a high level of lifestyle and amenity with generous recreational facilities on the podium including an expansive lagoon inspired pool and spa with integrated lounges and cabanas linking the two towers. Connected to this is a gymnasium, BBQ and dining areas. Additional recreation space punctuates the tower forms at the 15th level offering all residents access to work from home suites, shared lounges and terraces to further experience the expansive views.

This document is to be read in conjunction with the development application report prepared by UPS for the development of a 2 tower, 23 and 31 storey residential development at 11-23 Cronin Avenue, Main Beach. The locality contains a mixture of existing and future developments up to 36 storeys.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108747]

<h2>About the developer</h2>

Drew Group have been delivering apartments across SEQ for the last 15 years. Drew Group is a family owned property development and investment company that has been operating in Queensland since 1982. Jonathan Drew has been managing director of the company since 2005.

&ldquo;Our focus on opportunities has been market driven, giving us a wide scope of experience across a range of project types including residential, retail, commercial and hotel developments,&quot; Drew Group note.

&ldquo;As a group we focus on attention to detail with all our projects and look for opportunities to exceed in design, location and results. Through a very &ldquo;hands on&rdquo; approach to all aspects of the development process we manage to successfully obtain optimal outcomes for our buyers and investors.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108747 project_image_fid=188176]

Lagoon Main Beach will be a higher density project for Drew Group, homing 248 apartments across two towers

First look exclusive: Drew Group submit plans for two-tower apartment development, Lagoon Main Beach

The Melbourne-based developer, Goldfields, are expanding in to Brisbane.

Their first project, a joint venture with Icon Development Australia, will be in Milton, the riverside suburb in the inner western ring of the city. They&#39;ve submitted plans for a 20-level tower designed by Rothelowman at&nbsp;29-35 Manning Street, a combination of the two lots totalling 3,511 sqm.

Goldfields Chief Executive, Lachlan Thompson, told Urban that the time was right to go in to the Brisbane apartment market.

&ldquo;As a national property developer, we are constantly looking for areas that offer strong development potential and we were impressed with Milton&rsquo;s amenity and connectivity to all things lifestyle related,&quot; Thompson said.

&quot;We are of the strong opinion that Milton, as a suburb, is on the cusp of significant capital value growth due to limited supply and its proximity to the bustling Park Street retail strip.

<img alt="" height="818" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/29-35_manning_st_milton_4.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The 20-level tower draped in landscaping. Image credit: Rothelowman

Rothelowman say the proposed 131-apartment building is a&nbsp;homage to the vernacular intelligence of the traditional Queensland Home.

&quot;The Queensland Home, with its wide verandahs and eaves, is a perfectly adapted architectural response to the local climate,&quot; Rothelowman advised in their plans submitted to the Brisbane City Council.

&quot;Our approach aims to capture the open friendliness of the traditional Queensland Home, a characteristic born of the warmer regions of Australia.

&quot;It is aiming to reflect and acknowledge the semi-outdoor lifestyle, a unique expression of the way people have adapted to their environment.&quot;

<img alt="" height="737" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/29-35_manning_st_milton_5.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The apartments are oriented to take advantage of river and city views. Image credit: Rothelowman

Oriented to maximise the eastern aspect and minimise north-west exposure, the building responds&nbsp;directly to its immediate urban context, while also celebrating the views of Brisbane CBD and the Brisbane River.

There will be 14 one-bedroom apartments, 91 two-beds, 16 with a multipurpose room, 18 three-bedroom apartments and eight four-bedders, located across the top two levels.

The tower&rsquo;s floor plate maximises both the eastern and southern aspect, river and city views from the apartments.

The building will be crowned with Sky Terrace, a generous recreational space for&nbsp;residents featuring a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen and&nbsp;dining area.

<img alt="" height="734" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/29-35_manning_st_milton_3.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The proposed rooftop Sky Terrace. Image credit: Rothelowman

Landscaping is a big feature, with FORM&nbsp;Landscape Architects installing&nbsp;vertical greenery on the podium and on the rooftop.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Thompson says the apartments will appeal to young professional in particular.

&quot;This includes the &ldquo;three day a week owner occupiers&rdquo; that split their time between the Sunshine Coast and inner-city Brisbane, but don&rsquo;t want to compromise on quality or safety, as well as strategic investors,&quot; Thompson said.

<img alt="" height="732" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/29-35_manning_st_milton_roof.jpg" width="1200" />

Goldfields entered the Queensland market four years ago with a $350 million, 1,000 lot master-planned community in Ripley, in Ipswich.

Next the company will be announcing a&nbsp;mixed-use acquisition in East Elimbah that will, in time, deliver over a billion-dollar multi sector development.

&quot;We have been hungry to grow and further diversify our presence here with built-form opportunities within the inner suburbs of Brisbane,&quot; Thompson said.

As we continue to build our Queensland portfolio, we are considering a number of development opportunities from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast and look forward to making further announcements in the near future.&rdquo;

Goldfields also have a presence in Sydney, having recently launched The Livingstone, a collection of townhouses in Sydney&#39;s affluent Pymble.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108736]

Rothelowman say the new 131 apartment building is a homage to the vernacular intelligence of the traditional Queensland Home.

Melbourne developer Goldfields take first step in to Brisbane

A Windsor offering comprising four two-bedroom flats and two one-bedroom flats sold at recent auction for $2,410,000.

There were 10 Brisbane bidders at the auction which prompted its sale at 25 per cent above reserve through Ray White Special projects agents Matthew Fritzsche and Andrew Burke. 

The 885sqm site has development approved for a four-lot subdivision with freehold title houses. 

The property received 150 enquiries prior to auction.

Burke noted flats and boarding houses that tended to transact in the sub-$5 million category were sought after by ‘Mum and Dad’ or first time investors.

“Blocks of flats as an investment class are seeing benefit from Brisbane having one of the tightest rental markets nationwide, with a vacancy rate of 1.30 per cent recorded for May 2021,” he said. 




The property received 150 enquiries prior to auction, and 10 registered bidders on the day

10 investors seek Windsor, Brisbane apartment offering

A Norman Park riverfront complex has secured its first off the plan sale ahead of its late 2022 completion.

One of the four river homes at Rivera River House, 88 Wynnum Road, has been sold to an interstate buyer. Another is on the market for $5.995 million through Trevor Egan of Belle Property Bulimia.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94593]

The two direct riverfront houses will have a 12m boat mooring. The Brenta at Rivera river houses will be built on the 1688 sqm site.&nbsp;Ekko Point Properties who commissioned O&#39;Neill Architects to design the offering.

Each of the new four homes will have four bedrooms and three bathrooms over three levels, with pools and private lifts. They will be built by Scott Harris Constructions.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=94593]

One of the four river homes at 88 Wynnum Road has already sold to an interstate buyer.



Boutique Norman Park complex secures first off the plan sale

Despite offering developer unlimited height restrictions, some developers in the Gold Coast suburb of Broadbeach are opting for more boutique projects, as the demand for bigger apartments at higher price points continues to heighten.

The newest plans will see a boutique block of just&nbsp;10 full floor apartments built, one of which, the penthouse, which will span two levels.

Despite the unlimited heigh limit at&nbsp;131 Old Burleigh Road, the local Dovrat family have opted for a more boutique tower, following in the footsteps of the likes of Little Projects Co. and Marquee Developments.

The Old Burleigh Road apartments will have 288 sqm of internal living area, with a further 58 sqm of balconies, including an east-facing 43 sqm balcony off the open plan living, kitchen and dining area. Each of the three bedrooms will have a walk-in wardrobe and an ensuite. There will also be a multipurpose room.

The whole floor apartments run to level 12, where the two-level penthouse starts. That will have a private rooftop terrace with its own wet edge swimming pool, dining area, outdoor kitchen, lounge area, and a sauna.

<img alt="" height="758" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/131_old_burleigh_3.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The plans for 131 Old Burleigh Road. Image credit: Raunik Design

The resident amenity will be across levels one and two and will include an entry lobby, a swimming pool, a private dining space with kitchen, and a gym.

The town planning report by Planit Consulting stated the proposal by Raunik Design&nbsp;is of high architectural quality, expressing a luxurious and contemporary design through bold horizontal elements that complements the coastal character of the local area.

&quot;The façade is comprised of naturally forming elements such as glass and concrete and incorporates black aluminium frames and horizontal battens. The elegant concrete façade wraps around each floor floated by tinted glass allowing for natural light in addition to shading and privacy and unobstructed views in every direction.

&quot;The use of glass on the ground and mezzanine level activates the streetscape creating visual interest on a pedestrian scale. The built form presents low site coverage and substantial setbacks at the first two levels to create a legible entry and contribute positively to the streetscape.

Given its proximity to Surfers Paradise, traditionally Broadbeach has been a magnet for high density apartment towers, some with hundreds of apartments. But that&#39;s left a gap in the market for the downsizer or owner-occupier, who ranks space over location.

One of the next boutique projects to launch is Aperture,&nbsp;just 29 full floor apartments at 20 Mary Avenue. That&#39;s&nbsp;being developed by Little Projects&nbsp;Co, who recently sold out their $200 million Signature Broadbeach tower nearby.

<img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/little_projects_broadbeach_0.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The plans for Aperture&nbsp;at 20 Mary Avenue. Image credit: Elenberg Fraser

They&#39;ve had&nbsp;the award-winning architect&nbsp;Elenberg Fraser design the building.

To find out more about that project, <a href="/news/qld/little-projects-set-for-boutique-broadbeach-apartment-tower-aperture-aimed-at-the-luxury-owner-occupier">click here</a>.

The Brisbane-based Marquee Developments recently lodged plans for a 20-level tower of just 22 apartments at 17 Federation Avenue.

Hayes Anderson Lynch&nbsp;Architects have drawn up the plans for the 62 metre building which willl have&nbsp;six two-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom apartments and 10-four bedders. It will also be crowned by a two-level penthouse.

To find out more about that project, <a href="/news/qld/broadbeach-set-for-luxury-apartment-tower">click here</a>.

Despite the unlimited heigh limit at 131 Old Burleigh Road, the local Dovrat family have opted for a more boutique tower, aimed at the owner-occupier or downsizer

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