<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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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.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

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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Dolphin Heads the cheapest Queensland locality to purchase a studio unit: Investar

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Hamilton is the most expensive locality in Brisbane to purchase a house, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that the median price for Hamilton houses is $1,797,500.
This is followed by Ascot with $1,795,000 and Fig Tree Pocket with $1,506,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Hamilton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4007
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,797,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Ascot
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4007
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,795,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Fig Tree Pocket
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4069
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,506,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Indooroopilly
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4068
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,425,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
New Farm
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4005
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,395,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Bardon
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4065
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,360,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Clayfield
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4011
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,350,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Pullenvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4069
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,200,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Paddington
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4064
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,190,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Ashgrove
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4060
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,190,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hamilton-125169226" target="_blank">12 Whyenbah Street</a>, Hamilton (above) has been listed for auction.
Similarly a five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hamilton-125203158" target="_blank">2 Windermere Road</a>, Hamilton (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/2017/04/18/2%20Windermere%20Road.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Hamilton the most expensive Brisbane suburb: Investar

<html><body>
Collinsville is the cheapest Queensland locality to purchase a house, according to a recent Investar report.
The property investment firm says that a two bedroom house at Collinsville has a median price of $95,000.
This is followed by Dysart with $99,000 and Mount Morgan with $127,500.
<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="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Collinsville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4804
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$95,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Dysart
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4745
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$99,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Mount Morgan
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4714
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$127,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Charleville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4470
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$135,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Wondai
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4606
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$159,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-collinsville-121458062" target="_blank">17 Gralton Street</a>, Collinsville (above) sold last year for $55,000, at almost half the median.
</body></html>

Collinsville the cheapest Queensland locality to purchase a house: Investar

<html><body>
Paradise Point is the most expensive locality in Queensland to purchase a house, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that houses in Paradise Point has a median price of $2.55 million.
This is followed by Surfers Paradise with $2 million and Broadbeach Waters with $1,595,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Paradise Point
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4216
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$2,550,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Surfers Paradise
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4217
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$2,000,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Broadbeach Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4218
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,595,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Mermaid Beach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4218
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,560,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Clear Island Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4226
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,490,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Sunshine Beach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4567
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,462,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Benowa
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4217
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,400,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Hope Island
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4212
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,399,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bulimba
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4171
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,362,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Runaway Bay
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
4216
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$1,300,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
</body></html>

Paradise Point the most expensive Queensland locality to purchase a house: Investar

<html><body>
<div class="column">
Residential property developer Choice Homes believe the next residential hotspot for the Gold Coast will be in the northern areas, with land sales around the decade-long Coomera Town Centre project.
</div>
<div class="column">
Stage 1 of the development features a major shopping precinct, activity centres and transit hub. 
The developer has sought to expand stage one to include cinemas. 
The expansion of stage one could potentially create an additional 100 jobs. 
The $390 million Gold Coast International Marine Precinct will also be a boon for the Gold Coast and a key pillar in the city’s economy, Choice Homes noted in their recent <a href="https://www.choicehomes.com.au/marketupdates/" target="_blank">report</a>. 
</div>
According to the Valuer-General’s 2017 Property Market Movement report, Choice Homes noted the residential land on the Gold Coast has increased by 8.5% over the past year to $320,000.
There have been significant increases in some market sectors and localities since its last evaluation resulting in the land value increases, according to Queensland’s valuer-general Neil Bray.
Gold Coast director for property valuation and advisory business Herron Todd White Tod Gillespie commented that although the valuations confirmed that Gold Coast’s property market is growing stronger, it does not reflect the market value of the area.
“There is still some disparity between market value and government site value and if you could buy land at some of the sites valued there would be a rush of buyers,” he said.
Meanwhile REIQ Gold Coast zone chairman John Newlands says that northern NSW buyers should look towards place such as Coolangatta for affordability as well as predicting that there will be more growth on the northern region of the Gold Coast area.
“The northern corridor including Hope Island and Coomera is also something to watch,” he says.
“We are starting to see other industries apart from tourism and construction firing in their own capacity — film making, the medical and education industries are giving the Coast more depth and with the depth comes more jobs.”
What happens on the Coast is the professionals go to major cities for jobs and we lose a lot of talent,"
He also commented that Gold Coast’s ‘boom and bust’ reputation was starting to diminish due to other industries expanding.
CoreLogic has also reported in March that Gold Coast’s property market price has hit a record-high of $600,000 revealing that house prices increased by 6.2% over the past 12 months to December 2016 and 21.2% over three years.
This surpasses Brisbane’s $85,000 and is just $25,500 short of Melbourne’s median price while Sydney continues to dominate other localities with $905,000.
</body></html>

Gold Coast residential land values continue to grow: Choice Homes

<html><body>
Toowoomba continues to offer affordable options for first time buyers with a large supply of product on the market, steady investor interest and land developments benefiting affordability, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says land development in the western suburbs, including Glenvale and satellite suburbs such as Wyreema and Cambooya, have offered affordable land or house and land packages for first time buyers.
“Some new developments in the western suburbs have introduced small lots, which may be attractive to first time buyers because of their lower price points than traditional sized lots,” the report says.
“This has been enhanced by the current low interest rates, developer land rebate offerings and $20,000 first home owner grant available until 30 June 2017.”
An oversupply in some areas has resulted in price reductions across older established properties in the sub $400,000 market, significantly reduced asking rents and increased vacancy rates up to around 4%.
“First time buyers should consider all avenues such as an existing property in an older established area,” HTW says.
“An older, possibly smaller property in need of some [care] could present an opportunity for a first time buyer to get a foot in the door of the property market at a much lower price than a brand new larger house in a newly developed area.
“Many of these properties are located in suburbs close to the CBD.
“The first time buyer could potentially build capital with future improvements.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-north+toowoomba-124983914" target="_blank">149 Jellicoe Street</a>, North Toowoomba (above) has been listed for $239,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-north+toowoomba-124373914" target="_blank">10 Raff Street</a>, North Toowoomba (below) has been listed for over $319,000.
<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/2017/03/15/10%20Raff%20Street.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

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