Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

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Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

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The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

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For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

Joel Robinson

Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

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Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

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?

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

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<div class="column">
The AMP Capital Shopping Centre Fund (ASCF) and the AMP Capital Diversified Property Fund (ADPF) have each acquired a 25 per cent stake in Indooroopilly Shopping Centre.
They've bought it from Eureka - Real Assets, acting on behalf of Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation (CSC), in a deal worth more than $800 million.
AMP Capital has assumed management of the super-regional centre on behalf of investors, which is located seven kilometres from the Brisbane CBD in the city’s affluent inner west.
Operational since 1970, the centre underwent a major redevelopment in 2014 and currently comprises a gross lettable area of 116,447 sqm.
Indooroopilly Shopping Centre represents a compelling investment opportunity for the funds’ investors due to its long-term asset management and development potential underpinned by leases to seven major tenants such as Myer, David Jones, Coles and Woolworths, and 14 mini majors including H&amp;M and Uniqlo.
The asset benefits from favourable demographics, with average household income in the centre’s catchment area 22 per cent higher than the Brisbane average; good transport links; and strong trade area fundamentals including growing retail spend.
Retail spend in the area is forecast to increase from $3.2 billion currently to $3.8 billion in 2021. The centre also offers long-term mixed use development opportunities including the potential to add 90,000 square metres in gross floor area.
AMP Capital Shopping Centre fund manager Conrad Sinclair said the acquisition of a stake in Indooroopilly Shopping Centre on behalf of our investors is in line with the fund’s strategy of owning super- regional retail assets that dominate their trade area and with further potential for expansion.
"The fund’s investors now have an 81 per cent exposure to regional and super-regional shopping centres," he said.
"The deal follows a successful $200 million equity raising for ASCF, which was oversubscribed indicating the appeal these assets hold for investors.”
AMP Capital Diversified Property Fund Manager Kylie O’Connor said Indooroopilly Shopping Centre is a good fit for ADPF’s portfolio.
"It is consistent with the fund’s strategic objective to hold a diversified portfolio of high-quality assets across sectors, with a higher weighting towards regional and super-regional retail assets," she said.
"We also believe now is the right time to invest in south-east Queensland due to improving economic conditions and strong population growth in the state.”
AMP Capital has a strong presence in south-east Queensland, with a portfolio that includes the recently- redeveloped Pacific Fair on the Gold Coast.
AMP Capital Global Head of Real Estate Carmel Hourigan said Indooroopilly Shopping Centre is in the sweet spot of what AMP Capital does well for its investors.
Simon Rooney of JLL and Lachlan MacGillivray of Colliers International handled the transaction. 
They said there was a lack of transaction evidence in the regional shopping centre sector over 2015 and 2016, but three regional shopping centres have traded in 2017.
In addition to the sale of Indooroopilly, Highpoint Shopping Centre reflected a yield of 4.25% and Chatswood Chase reflected 4.75% – although both were direct off-market transactions.
Selling for a sub-4.5% yield, Indooroopilly services the inner western and southwestern suburbs of Brisbane and represents one of only four super-regional centres in Brisbane. Located in an extensive trade area comprising close to 650,000 people, Indooroopilly is a major retail destination attracting an estimated 12 million customer visits a year. 
The average per capita income in the main trade area is 30% above the Brisbane metropolitan average and the population growth in the past 5 years has been 2.3% per annum, significantly higher than the Australian average of 1.7%.
Originally built in 1970, Indooroopilly was expanded in 1987, 1998 and most recently in 2014 to approximately 116,447 sqm of total lettable area. The shopping centre is anchored by Myer and David Jones; Kmart and Target; and two supermarkets, Coles and Woolworths.
There is a 16 screen cinema; 14 mini majors; more than 300 specialty shops; and parking for close to 4,600 cars.
Its recent $450 million redevelopment, completed in 2014, included the addition of the first Uniqlo and the first H&amp;M stores in Queensland. 
The total site area is approximately 7.8 hectares.
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</div>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

AMP Capital funds acquire 50 per cent of Indooroopilly Shopping Centre in Queensland

<html><body>
<h1>
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-mcgovern-168" target="_blank" style="font-family: Tahoma, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.16px;">Mark McGovern</a>, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>
</h1>
The Queensland state government is <a href="https://www.qtc.com.au/annual-reports/annual-report-2016-17/" target="_blank">paying a higher interest rate</a> than most Queenslanders are on their mortgages. To make matters worse, debt is <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/265852954_Subprime_agriculture_and_Australia" target="_blank">becoming problematic in rural areas</a> with incomes and asset values down, and debts, unemployment and underemployment up.
Without improved state government debt arrangements, and policies to alleviate stressed industries and communities, Queenslanders’ income and wealth will suffer.
A destructive dynamic is at work in government, rural and urban debts. As debt servicing bites, consumption falls, stressing businesses and their employees. Public and private interest payments crowd out jobs and business investment.
The interest rate on Queensland government debt is currently 5.2% per annum, compared to <a href="https://www.canstar.com.au/compare/home-loans/?amount=350000&amp;profile=Buying+Next+Home+350k&amp;purpose=Buying+Next+Home&amp;repayment_type=P%2BI&amp;state=NSW&amp;Loan+Type=Variable&amp;provider_link=Yes%2C+only+show+results+with+links" target="_blank">mortgage rates</a> between 3% and 4%.
Interest rates fluctuate markedly from year to year. Today the <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/statistics/cash-rate/" target="_blank">Reserve Bank of Australia cash rate is 1.5% pa</a> yet the Queensland government in 2013-14 was paying the same 5.2% pa when the RBA cash rate was 3% pa. Failure to capture lower market rates is evident in the state’s finances.
<h2>Government debt</h2>
The Queensland government sells bonds to cover its borrowing. For example, it could sell a ten-year bond for A$1,000 (the face value) that pays out 5% pa every six months. The Queensland Treasury makes interest payments every six months and pays back the A$1,000 after ten years.
However, bonds are traded in markets and can be bought and sold for more or less than the face value. If interest rates in the wider economy are lower than what the bond pays or if perceived risks are low, a bond may trade for more than the face value, say A$1,100.
Looking at <a href="https://www.qtc.com.au/annual-reports/annual-report-2016-17/" target="_blank">Queensland Treasury Corporation data</a> we can see that total debts held by the State of Queensland had a face value of A$89.2 billion but a market value for A$98.5 billion at the end of June 2017. This was A$9.3 billion more than face value.
Also evident is that total debt peaked in 2014-15, but <a href="https://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/leaders-trip-over-debt-campaign-unfolds/3253743/" target="_blank">no one seems to have noticed</a>.
<iframe style="border: none;" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/10id6/3/" frameborder="0" width="100%" height="400"></iframe>
Examining the breakdown between Queensland departments such as Treasury and the government-owned corporations that supply electricity, water and the like, the rise in Queensland general government debt was relatively smooth between 2007 and 2015. Changes in government had no significant effects on the trend in general government debt.
This rise appears driven by a <a href="https://s3.budget.qld.gov.au/budget/papers/2/4-Revenue.pdf" target="_blank">shortfall in government revenue</a>, poor policies and the global financial crisis. A lack of critical information about government debt compounded these problems.
As discussed by the <a href="https://publications.qld.gov.au/dataset/rural-debt-and-drought-taskforce-report/resource/fea23ad0-e069-4484-91ce-d1d762decc48" target="_blank">rural debt and drought taskforce</a>, relatively small rural debts also appear to be manageable. Much bigger challenges lie in the big cities because of the sheer size and the recentness of much debt.
<h2>Refinancing Queensland?</h2>
Relatively small steps can have big effects in the current situation.
The first step for the new government is to provide better transparency about the state of government debt with Treasury publishing better analysis and fuller accounts. This will help lead to more sustainable state finances, and to tackle problems in both rural and urban areas.
Although large Queensland government debts appear relatively manageable, this is providing that net government revenues can be maintained.
There are several potential policy initiatives but we only have space to consider one. Suppose the Queensland government set a target of transitioning to raise one-third of its funds from directly selling non-transferable bonds (that can’t be bought or sold) to Queenslanders. This was a regular practice before financial liberalisation in the 1980s. If done again well, it could be a win-win outcome.
Much like a term deposit, Queenslanders could buy five-year bonds with an interest rate of, say, 3% pa. This would reward Queensland savers with better returns than they could get in a savings account and keep money within the state. It would have saved the government the significant sum of A$620 million if used for a third of government bonds in 2016-17.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/87586/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">Interest payments should be one focus for the incoming government as it works with insight to improve its management of debts and their effects. Gains from some fresh thinking could be considerable.
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mark-mcgovern-168" target="_blank">Mark McGovern</a>, Visiting Fellow, QUT Business School, Economics and Finance, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-queensland-government-is-paying-more-for-its-debt-than-the-average-mortgage-holder-87586" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The Queensland government is paying more for its debt than the average mortgage holder

<html><body>
Caloundra is ranked among Queensland’s fastest selling localities for houses, according to a recent Investar report.
The property data firm says that it takes on average 50 days for houses in Caloundra to sell.
This was followed by Bahrs Scrub at 60 days and Park Ridge at 69 days.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
Days on market
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Caloundra
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4551
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
50
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$488,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Bahrs Scrub
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4207
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
60
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$392,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Park Ridge
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4125
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
69
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$418,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Greenslopes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4120
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
71
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$475,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Deebing Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4306
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
76
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$354,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Ripley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4306
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
78
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$353,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Wishart
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4122
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
78
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$599,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Thornlands
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4164
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
79
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$493,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Caloundra West
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4551
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
79
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$486,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Molendinar
</td>
<td valign="top" width="55">
4214
</td>
<td valign="top" width="60">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="98">
85
</td>
<td valign="top" width="113">
$462,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-caloundra-125648086" target="_blank">9 Third Avenue</a>, Caloundra (above) recently sold for $540,000 after spending 11 days on the market.
Built in 1965, the 630 square metre house last sold for $110,000 in 1999.
Another three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-caloundra-125863158" target="_blank">11 Minchinton Street</a>, Caloundra (below) recently sold for $516,000 after spending five days on the market.
Built in 1960, the 610 square metre house last sold in 2012 for $195,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/11%20Minchinton%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-caloundra-124119718" target="_blank">14 Orsova Terrace</a>, Caloundra (below) sold this year for $595,000 after spending nine days on the market.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/14%20Orsova%20Terrace.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-caloundra-124434438" target="_blank">10 Third Avenue</a>, Caloundra sold this year for $545,000 after spending two days on the market.
Built in 1970, the 630 square metre house sold for $455,000 in 2009.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/15/10%20Third%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
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Caloundra ranks as fastest Queensland locality to sell houses: Investar

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Toowoomba’s property market continues to perform strongly, according to REIQ's latest Queensland Market Monitor’s quarterly report.
Over the medium term, Toowoomba has been a strong regional performer with the annual median sale price growing 21.1% for houses and 25.7% for units.
This ranks Toowoomba as the third-strongest performing regional market for housing and the best performing regional market for units in the state.
In a climate where regional residential markets have been severely challenged, this is a noteworthy result.
The March quarter delivered positive results with the median house price growing 1.3% to $355,000 and the median unit price grew a solid 2% to $309,500.
Toowoomba is one of the few regions in Queensland favoured with large infrastructure investment.
The $1.6 billion Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, the Gore Highway Interchange construction, the Murphys Creek Road and Postmans Ridge Road realignment, commencing this year.
Toowoomba is a steady market for both houses and units with a solid pipeline of projects in the region.
However, there is an increase in the supply of houses and units to this market which could affect the equilibrium of the market and its positive outlook over the coming months.
Toowoomba’s house market slipped of 0.8% over the past 12 months, to an annual median house price of $350,000 for March.
Over the medium term (five years), the housing market increased 21.1% or the equivalent of 3.9% per annum, from the annual median of $289,000 in March 2012.
There are some signs that demand is slowing.
The number of quarterly sales fell 2.4% from 551 in September to 538 in December.
Preliminary data shows a reduction to 426 transactions for the March quarter.
The most-active sale price for houses sits in transactions below $350,000.
Toowoomba is the second-most affordable local government area in the southeast corner, following Ipswich.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.41%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.41%20am.jpg" alt="">
The median days on market increased 10 days from 44 days in February 2016 to 54 days in February 2017.
The median vendor discounting, on the other hand, remained steady at 4.8%.
The number of listings increased significantly by 31.9% from 3906 listings in February 2016 to 5151 in February 2017.
This increase is just a reflect on of the growing supply of housing in the region.
The impact of the increasing supply on the market dynamics and median sale price will be monitored.
The unit market performed well this quarter reaching a quarterly growth of 2% to a median price of $309,500.
This growth partially compensated previous quarterly losses and helped control the dip on the annual median sale price of 0.6% with the annual median sale price falling to $308,000 for March 2017 from $310,000 for March 2016.
Over the medium term, Toowoomba remains the star performer for the unit market with the annual median sale price increasing from $245,000 in March 2012 to $308,000 in March 2017.
The size of the Toowoomba unit market is small, only about 500-600 sales per year. A comparison between the volume of sales in September and December 2016 demonstrates that demand remains steady with quarterly sales.
The most active price range for units is for transactions between $250,000 and $350,000, which aligns with the median sale price range.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.50%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.50%20am.jpg" alt="">
Market trend indicators for the 12 months to February 2017 show a slower market for units with the median days on market increasing to 80 days and the median vendor discounting reaching 5.1% for February 2017.
The number of listings reported a significant increase of 36.5% from 619 listings for February 2016 to 845 listings for February 2017.
The impact on the market equilibrium and pricing is still unknown and will be assessed when data for the June quarter is available.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-centenary+heights-125601038" target="_blank">147 Ramsay Street</a>, Centenary Heights (above) has been listed for over $349,000.
It was last sold in 2006 for $235,000 and the land was sold in 1984 for $22,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-middle+ridge-125015022" target="_blank">6/77 Bouganvillea Drive</a>, Middle Ridge (below) has been listed for over $299,000.
It last sold in 2012 for $316,500.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/6_77%20Bouganvillea%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
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Toowoomba ranked third-strongest performing regional housing market in Queensland

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The ABS has for the first time released new information showing changes in land values, use and cover for the state of Queensland.
It showed that total land in Queensland covered approximately 173.0 million hectares.
IT had a total unimproved land value of $721.5 billion as at 30 June 2016, up 16% from $621.4 billion as at 30 June 2011, according to the latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.39%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.39%20pm.jpg" alt="">
"The increase in total unimproved land value was largely driven by a 25% increase in the value of Residential land from $415.0 billion in 2011 to $518.7 billion in 2016," said Mike Booth, Director of Environmental Accounts Development at the ABS.
"Similarly Residential land area also increased 18% between 2011 and 2016. This increase in land area was largely at the expense of primary production land use types, including a net increase of 22,087 hectares to Residential land from Livestock Grazing land."
The area of Waterbodies and Wetlands land cover showed an overall decrease of 191,231 hectares (or 18%) and 512,344 hectares (or 48%) between the two intervals 2010-2011 and 2014-2015 respectively.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.48%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.48%20pm.jpg" alt="">
"These decreases in Waterbodies and Wetlands land cover are likely related to an overall decrease in total rainfall across these same accounting periods, as reported by the Bureau of Meteorology," said Mr Booth.
Summary data on land use, land cover and land parcels has been produced for Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2s) within Queensland for this publication.
"This data provides users an opportunity to explore stocks and changes in land for small geographical regions," explained Mr Booth.
The publication also presents a Feature Article which accounts for land changes within the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) region.
This information will provide a foundation for the ABS Experimental Environmental-Economic Accounts for the Great Barrier Reef due for release in August 2017.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.57%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%2012.09.57%20pm.jpg" alt="">
QUEENSLAND'S LAND AT A GLANCE
<ul>
<li>The State of Queensland covers approximately 173 million hectares.</li>
<li>Total unimproved land value in Queensland increased by around $100 billion from $621.4 billion to $721.5 billion between 2011 and 2016.</li>
<li>'Residential' was the highest valued land use in Queensland with an unimproved land value of $415.0 billion and $518.7 billion in 2011 and 2016.</li>
<li>'Livestock Grazing' was the most dominant land use type by area in Queensland with 144.2 million and 143.8 million hectares in 2011 and 2016.</li>
<li>'Grasslands' was the most dominant broad land cover type by area in Queensland with 84.6 million and 82.3 million hectares in 2010-2011 and 2014-2015.</li>
<li>'Woodland' was the most dominant detailed land cover type by area in Queensland in 2010-2011 with 35.6 million hectares, while 'Spare Vegetation' was the most dominant in 2014-2015 with 53.3 million hectares.</li>
</ul>
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Forestry lands in decline in residential-focused Queensland

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The Gold Coast housing market is the juggernaut of the southeast, reaching a new high median house price of $615,000 for the March quarter, according to REIQ's latest Queensland Market Monitor quarterly report.
The unit market, on the other hand, slipped 1.2 percent to a March quarter median of $410,000 compared to $415,000 for December 2016.
Looking at annual data, (which is less volatile than quarterly data) the Gold Coast has been one of the state’s best performers for the house and unit markets, reaching an annual growth of 6.4 percent for houses and 5.2 percent for units to March 2017.
The Commonwealth Games $160 million Roads package fully funded by the State Government has been one of the key drivers of economic development in the region.
This investment is still in progress and will deliver a significant road upgrade to Southport – Burleigh Roads, Labrador – Carrara Roads, Olsen Avenue and Nerang – Broadbeach Road.
In addition to the numerous Commonwealth Games projects, the $70 million Gold Coast cruise ship terminal proposal is getting closer to become a reality.
Environmental approval from the Federal Government, potentially the biggest hurdle for the project, was granted in mid-May 2017.
The economic fundamentals supporting the property market in the region are solid and driven by a large infrastructure investment program.
Local agents are very positive about the future of the residential property market.
However, in the post-Games period, the Gold Coast economy may require concerted efforts from all levels of government to ensure a jobs program is in place to shore up employment in the region.
The housing market performed strongly over the March quarter, with the quarterly price growing 4.2 percent to a new high of $615,000.
The annual median house price increased 6.4 percent to $585,000 for the 12 months to March.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.27%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.27%20pm.jpg" alt="">
This increase positioned the region as the second-best annual performer for the house market to March 2017 (following Noosa).
Over the medium term (five years), the Gold Coast median house price grew 26.5 percent, which equates to 4.8 percent per annum (from a median price of $462,500 in March 2012).
This makes the Gold Coast the strongest performing house market in the state over five years.
The Gold Coast has five suburbs with an annual median house price above $1 million, compared to only three suburbs for the March quarter 2016.
Paradise Point has entered the million-dollar club in this March quarter with an annual median sale price of $1.09 million.
Affordable houses in the region are still available primarily in the suburbs of Lower Beechmont, Jacobs Well, Neerang, Ormeau and Upper Coomera; which reported annual median sale price in the range of $385,000 to $468,000.
The volume of activity reduced 5.6 percent from 1892 in September 2016 to 1786 in December 2016.
Preliminary data for March indicates a reduction of about 23.1 percent to 1373 sales.
This data will have to be reassessed in the June 2017 Queensland Market Monitor to confirm whether the number of sales in the region is experiencing a downward trend or just quarterly volatility.
The most active price point for the house market has been the $500,000 to $750,000.
For the 12 months to February 2017, the median days on market and median vendor discounting reported minor changes.
A house in the Gold Coast takes approximately 35 days to sell and requires a discount of about 4.2 percent.
Housing supply increased 16.3 per cent to 11,514 listings for the 12 months to February, triggering an increase in the stock on market from 7.6 percent in February 2016 to 8.8 percent in February 2017.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-robina-125589182" target="_blank">74 Easthill Drive</a>, Robina (above) has been listed for $629,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-pacific+pines-125118482" target="_blank">36 Pago Terrace</a>, Pacific Pines (below) has been listed for over $600,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/36%20Pago%20Terrace.jpg" alt="">
The land was last sold in 2001 for $68,000 with the property built the following year.
The Gold Coast unit market slipped 1.2 percent to a March quarter median of $410,000, but it was still the busiest apartment market in Queensland, with preliminary sales of 1859 compared to Brisbane LGA of 1578 for the March quarter.
The annual median unit price increased 5.2 percent to $405,000 for March.
Similar to the house market, the Gold Coast is one of the best annual performer for the 12 months to March 2017.
Over a five-year period, the unit market increased by 12.5 percent, from an annual median sale price of $360,000 in March 2012 to $405,000 in March 2017, which is equivalent to moderate annual growth of 2.4 percent.
Based on annualised data to February 2017, units sell in about 50 days with a discount of 4.4 percent.
The annual number of listings to February 2017 increased 27.2 percent to 14,112.
This triggered a lift on the stock on market from 9.3 percent in February 2016 to 11.8 percent in February 2017.
The Gold Coast’s rental market has operated within the tight to healthy range for the past 19 quarters.
Vacancy rates returned to the tight range, reaching 1.7 percent over the March quarter.
Local real estate agents operating in the region indicated that generally properties remained vacant between 1 to 2 weeks and the market has performed well and reasonably steady over the past two to three years.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.34%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.34%20pm.jpg" alt="">
The Gold Coast’s rental market is the most expensive in Queensland with the median rent for a three-bedroom house at $470 per week, which is $30 a week more expensive than the same house in Brisbane LGA.
The median rent for a two-bedroom unit, at $420 per week, increased by $20 or about 5 percent over the March quarter.
This increase has positioned the Gold Coast two- bedroom unit rental market as one of the most expensive in Queensland, along with Brisbane LGA.
The weekly median rent of three-bedroom townhouses held steady at $420 for March.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.42%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/15/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-15%20at%201.47.42%20pm.jpg" alt="">
The indicative gross rental yields for houses weakened by 0.2 percentage points to 4 percent for March due to the upward trend of the median sale price.
In contrast, the gross rental yields for units increased 0.2 percentage points to 5.3 percent due to the reduction on the quarterly median unit price.
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Gold Coast hits $615,000 median house price

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Listing volume for Fraser Coast unit market has jumped, according to REIQ’s latest Queensland Market Monitor quarterly report.
The quarterly median house prices are typically more volatile than annual median data and this is true of the Fraser Coast market, which revealed a quarterly growth figure this quarter of 2.5 per cent, compared with a fall of 2.3 per cent in the December quarter last year.
Looking at the more consistent 12-month median house price data, the Fraser Coast has held steady for the 12 months to March 2017.
This is consistent with the 12 months to December also, where no change was recorded.
And like the house market, the unit market also experienced volatile growth on a quarterly basis, with a fall of 10.7 per cent from December to March.
However, looking at the more reliable annual data the Fraser Coast unit market grew 1.2 per cent, from $247,000 in March 2016 to $250,000 in March 2017.
The Fraser Coast has become the region with the largest percentage of houses (13.5 per cent stock of market) and units (18.9 per cent stock of market) listed for sale for the 12 months to February 2017.
This region is suffering from a dearth of funded infrastructure and investment projects that proliferate throughout other regions in Queensland.
Good news on the horizon, however, with the proposed $300 million Colton Coal mine near Maryborough, which was granted three mining leases in early May.
Once the mine reaches operational stage, it is expected to create about 120 jobs for the region and boost economic development.
The Fraser Coast could also become the renewable energy capital of Queensland over the next five years.
The Eco Energy World Australia project proposes to build a $280 million renewable energy facility at Aramara.
This project is expected to generate 150 jobs during construction and 11 part-time jobs when operational.
The housing market has remained steady over the past 12 months, reporting an annual median sale price of $307,500 for the March quarter.
Over the medium term, the annual median sale price recorded a modest growth of 7.9 per cent from $285,000 for March 2012 to $307,500 for March 2017.
The largest volume of transactions was below $350,000.
The volume of sales remained relative steady in the September and December quarters.
Preliminary data shows a reduction in the number of sales over the March quarter.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2011.09.05%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2011.09.05%20am.jpg" alt="">
However, this is still subject to review to reach a meaningful conclusion.
Following the state-wide trend, listings increased in the Fraser Coast, up by 52.4 per cent from 3352 in February 2016 to 5107 in February 2017.
This resulted in a rise in the volume of stock on the market, up 4.6 percentage points to 13.5 per cent.
Median days on market and median vendor discounting recorded a modest improvement.
A house takes about 84 days to sell with a discount of 5.9 per cent for the 12 months to February 2017..
The annual median unit price increased 1.2 per cent, from $247,000 in March 2016 to $250,000 in March 2017.
Over the medium term (five years), the unit market has fallen 11.1 per cent with the annual median price dropping from $281,150 in March 2012 to $250,000 in March 2017.
The most active price range is for transactions below $250,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2011.09.13%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2011.09.13%20am.jpg" alt="">
The volume of sales increased 12.2 per cent over the December quarter, from 82 sales in September to 92 sales in December.
The listings volume jumped 73.6 per cent, from 497 to 863 for the past 12 months.
The amount of stock on the market rose to 18.9 per cent.
This positions the Fraser Coast as the region with the largest percentage of units for sale in Queensland.
Median days on market and median vendor discounting fell slightly over the past 12 months, reaching 87 days and 5.8 per cent in February 2017.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-pialba-123913050" target="_blank">9/63-65 Hillyard Street</a>, Pialba (above) has been listed from $230,000.
The property was last sold in 2007 for $192,500 and again in 1993 for $94,000.
Similarly a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-maryborough-125245114" target="_blank">6/268 Ellena Street</a>, Maryborough (below) has been listed for $199,000.
It last sold in 2007 for $200,000, in 2004 for $163,000 and in 1999 for $90,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/6_268%20Ellena%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Unit listing volumes in Fraser Coast jumps

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Renovation flipping in Ipswich property market is not a dominating factor, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest report.
The property investment firm says that owner-occupiers make up the majority of renovators.
“The renovation revolution is an element of the Ipswich property market, however by no means a dominant activity,” the report stated.
“The majority of renovators are owner-occupiers.
“Ipswich is a price sensitive market and accordingly home owners should be very mindful of expenditure versus added value.
“For that reason the majority of renovations in this location are limited to painting, a new bathroom, new kitchen and floor coverings.
“With the low price point of units in the Ipswich market, it is somewhat difficult to undertake renovation projects with a view to capitalising on works completed.”
HTW comments that popular and highly regarded areas are where renovations are more likely to occur.
“The suburbs of Ipswich that contain a number of character dwellings are typically the most popular and more highly regarded areas in which to undertake renovations,” the report commented.
“These include Woodend, Saddliers Crossing, East Ipswich, Newtown and Ipswich Central.”
Presentation of the property are the primary aim of renovations HTW says.
“The most prudent approach is to undertake renovations that enhance the presentation of the property,” the report advised.
“For example some minor carpentry work and painting can convert a residence with enclosed verandah to something that resembles a typical character dwelling that is very welcoming and has enhanced street appeal.
“Painting throughout, floor coverings and modern kitchen and bathrooms are always the best for achieving capital value improvement.
“We would however recommend staying away from locations that do not typically attract renovators and that generally comprise dated or original housing.
“It is difficult to achieve top price for your renovated property when so many around you are well below the standard. This often leads to over capitalising.
“The most important component of buying and renovating, particularly in a price sensitive area such as Ipswich, is the purchase price.
“Astute buying is so often where risk can be somewhat nullified to place yourself in the best possible position.”
A renovation-ready two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-east+ipswich-124689670" target="_blank">49 Blackall Street</a>, East Ipswich (above) has been listed for $209,000.
Similarly a four bedroom ready for renovation at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-woodend-125707854" target="_blank">8 Pryde Street</a>, Woodend (below) has been listed for sale.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/20/8%20Pryde%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom Queenslander, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/31-salisbury-road-ipswich-qld-4305-2013626041" target="_blank">31 Salisbury Road, Ipswich</a> (below) is on the market with expectations above $455,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-23%20at%2010.26.06%20AM.png" alt="">
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Majority of Ipswich renovators are owner-occupiers: HTW

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West Gladstone is the cheapest Queensland locality to rent a unit, according to Investar’s latest June report.
The property investment firm says that the median rent price at West Gladstone is $130 a week.
This is followed by Chinchilla with $145 and Dolphin Heads, Dalby and Ingham with $170 a week.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Current median rent
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
West Gladstone
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4680
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$130
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Chinchilla
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4413
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$145
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Dolphin Heads
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4740
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$170
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Dalby
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4405
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$170
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Ingham
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4850
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$170
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-west+gladstone-411555943" target="_blank">23/7 Kent Street</a>, West Gladstone (above) has been listed with $125 per week asking rent.
Last year in August the property was available for rent from $175 per week, however 20 days later it was reduced to $150 per week.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-west+gladstone-418741794" target="_blank">Unit 1/33 Watt Street</a>, West Gladstone (below) has been listed for $140 per week.
The renting price remained the same last year while in 2012 it came with a $480 per week asking rental. The 1970s offering had sold in 2012 at $335,000. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/09/Unit%201_33%20Watt%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Rents are still well down at West Gladstone, the cheapest Queensland locality: Investar

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Dolphin Heads is the cheapest Queensland locality to purchase a unit, according to a recent Investar report.
The property investment firm says that the median price for a studio or one bedroom unit at Dolphin Head is $58,500.
This is followed by Ayr with $97,000 and Marcoola with $99,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Dolphin Heads
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4740
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$58,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Ayr
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4807
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$97,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Marcoola
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4564
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$99,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Manunda
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Manoora
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4870
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$105,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-dolphin+heads-124925230" target="_blank">Unit 120/6 Beach Road</a>, Dolphin Heads (above) has been listed for $79,000.
Similarly a one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-dolphin+heads-118339423" target="_blank">224/6 Beach Road</a>, Dolphin Heads (below) has been listed for $89,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/11/224_6%20Beach%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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