<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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Brisbane agents scheduled a record number of homes for a February weekend with the preliminary result seeing a 61% success rate.
Some 142 properties were scheduled for auction, well ahead of the 84 auctions conducted last weekend and significantly higher than the 100 listed over the same weekend a year ago.
Windaroo hosted the most number of auctions this weekend with seven followed by Sunnybank and Ascot with five each.
Seller confidence in the Brisbane housing market continues to rise following a record spring-summer auction season, Fairfax Domain senior economist Andrew Wilson said.
"This year has commenced in similar fashion with a record early season 448 auctions over the last five weekends compared to the 390 listed over the same period last year," said Wilson.
"Solid buyer demand for inner and middle suburban properties continues to drive the Brisbane housing market with prices continuing to rise."
APM reported the weekend's top sale was $1,496,000 when the four bedroom 89 Towers Street, Ascot (pictured above) deceased estate offering sold through Ray White.
The weekend's cheapest was a three bedroom house at Morayfield for $183,000. The 1 Judith Street house sold through Lynne Cornish Real Estate.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

A solid 61% auction success rate Brisbane's first February Super Saturday

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Last year, $51 billion worth of residential property changed hands, according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).
REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said Queensland's home transaction values peaked at $73 billion in 2007, but that "there's a very encouraging upward trend which is great news for home owners".
2014's result is the highest since 2010.
<img src="/images/2015/03/02/reiq-mar-2-two.jpg" alt="">
Sales volumes are also "clearly heading in the right direction," said Mercorella, with 114,000 transactions recorded last year. The highest ever year for number of transactions is 2003.
"And in another encouraging sign, there's been a significant rise in the number of suburbs where every vendor made a profit on sale," she said.
"In 2014, there were 49 Queensland suburbs where every property sold at a profit, up from just 22 suburbs in 2013."
The majority of suburbs with 100% profit-making sales were in Brisbane, with the eastern suburb of Gumdale having the greatest increase in profit making sales of any Brisbane suburb. There, transactions were up 33% over the year.
"Tara on the Western Darling Downs recorded the biggest increase in profit-making sales anywhere in the State, with an impressive rise of 36%," said Mercorella.
"Other strong performers included Goombungee, north of Toowoomba (up 27% and Caravonica, north of Cairns (up 26%).
"Meanwhile on the Gold Coast, 100% of vendors in Mermaid Beach made a profit on sale in 2014, as the city's prestige real estate market continues to bounce back."
She also noted increased momentum in the prestige $1 million-plus market.
"Around 2,600 properties across 320 suburbs changed hands for more than $1 million in 2014, predominantly in the Southeast," she said. According to the REIQ, properties worth $1 million or more made up the strongest performing segment of the market in the December quarter.
The $1 million-plus price point was Queensland's strongest performer in the December 2014 quarter, with a 17% increase in sales volumes.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Queensland home sales reach five year high: REIQ

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Brisbane's inner city rental market has been termed "weak" by the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ).
The REIQ recorded a 3.8% vacancy rate in Brisbane's inner ring (0 to 5 kilometres from the city centre) in December 2014.
Any vacancy rate figure above 3.5% is categorised as "weak", while a market is considered "tight" if it has a vacancy rate below 2.5%, and healthy with a vacancy rate between 2.5% and 3.5%.
The other "weak" Queensland markets in December were in Bundaberg, Gladstone, Rockhampton,  Mackay and Townsville, with Mackay topping vacancy rates at 10.3%.
The Brisbane inner market is the only greater Brisbane region with a "weak" market. The REIQ notes that vacancy rates are trending upwards.
In a release, REIQ chief executive Antonia Mercorella said: "Residential vacancy rates are prone to seasonal fluctuations over the Christmas/New Year period and 2014 was no different."
"Many REIQ agents reported softer tenant demand in December, with many leases expiring as students finish up their studies and others also take up employment opportunities in new locations."
However, Brisbane's inner market is experiencing weaker conditions than in previous years: In December 2012, the REIQ recorded a vacancy rate of 2%. In the same month of 2011, Brisbane had an inner city vacancy rate of 1.9%.
According to the REIQ, the median price of a unit in Brisbane was $420,000 in the September Quarter. In the latest HSBC Downunder Digest report, HSBC forecasts 6% to 7% price growth for Brisbane homes in 2015, with 4% to 7% forecast for 2016.
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2015/02/10/forecasts.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/02/10/forecasts.jpg" alt=""></a>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-west+end-405055971" target="_blank">201/9 Kurilpa Street in West End</a> will be available to rent in March at $540 per week. The two bedroom "near new" apartment was advertised to rent in September at $550 per week, with the asking rent lowered last month.
At its current advertised rent, investors who paid $510,000 in May 2013 will be receiving a yield of 5.6%.
<img src="/images/2015/02/12/west%20end%20feb%2012%20tqwo.jpg" alt="">
Buyers paid $465,000 for this National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) unit in July 2014. It was listed to rent late last month for $397 per week - slightly less than the $400 per week the previous owners were expecting this time last year.
According to Domain Group, vacancy rates for units in the greater Brisbane area were higher for units than houses in January, which is normal across all the capital city markets (see graph below).
<img src="/images/2015/02/12/Picture%2044.png" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
The unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-kangaroo+point-415036059" target="_blank">1401/67 Linton Street, Kangaroo Point,</a> has two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Its current advertised rental rate reflects a 4.4% yield.
<img src="/images/2015/02/12/west%20end%20feb%2012%20three.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/graph_yield.php?sfx=&amp;region=qld%3A%3AInner+Brisbane&amp;t=1" target="_blank">SQM Research</a> data shows that asking rents for units in the Brisbane inner region have remained relatively stable over the past five years.
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2015/02/12/sqm-feb-12-one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/02/12/sqm-feb-12-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
However, there have been recent warnings, including <a href="/expert-insights/buying/brisbane-on-the-slippery-slope-to-oversupply">one from columnist Terry Ryder</a>, about the threat of oversupply in the Brisbane inner market, while in September <a href="/expert-insights/buying/brisbanes-inner-city-apartment-market-q-a-with-urbis-jon-rivera">Urbis' Jon Riviera told Property Observer </a>he had heard reports of rents softening, with rents previously "quite inflated". 
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Brisbane's "weak" inner city vacancy rates climbing

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Just when you thought affordability was becoming a word of the past, I’ve unearthed another hard to believe story on the Gold Coast, alongside further evidence of the appeal of the local market as local demographics continue to evolve.
Our Gold Coast Team have just launched a new residential project located in the heart of Robina, on the doorstep of the thriving $2.5 billion town centre.
Robina is a classic and now very successful masterplanned residential community that has gone from strength to strength over the last two decades.
Perhaps best known as the home of the Bond University, Robina is now delivering the dream of the planners, it’s a thriving desirable community. Yes, it has access to great beaches and much more.
As a potential place to buy into the Queensland real estate market it offers a range of opportunities that will appeal to both future residents and investors alike. I also think that the development mix adds to the area’s appeal.
The choices are dynamic and importantly aim to meet the needs of singles, families, retirees and students across a variety of prices. Variety is important with apartments, villas, townhouses and detached homes.
While the Robina Town Centre is the focus of the area, there’s a direct train link to Brisbane. While employment is diverse across the Bond University, Varsity Lakes IT hub and now a brand new football stadium will also create economic momentum.
Robina’s history doesn’t extend much past the late 1980s, which makes the rate and scale of development impressive as it has matured into a business, medical, commercial and residential centre.
Robina has certainly proved to be centrepiece of Gold Coast development and with a strong future.
Picture of Robina courtesy of <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:TravellerQLD" target="_blank" title="User:TravellerQLD">TravellerQLD</a>/<a class="mw-mmv-license" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.1599998474121px; line-height: 1.3em;">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>.
 
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pchittenden-eLqUUC8TWW

Robina has proved to be centrepiece of Gold Coast development: Peter Chittenden

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The China Capital Investment Group has bought Queensland’s Daydream Island Resort for around $30 million, well below its $65 million asking price in late 2012.
With the low dollar and strong growth in the Chinese inbound market, the resort is the latest sale with Lindeman Island also sold to Chinese buyers, Whitehorse in 2012.
The annual turnover of the resort is estimated at $27 million.
The Australian reported CBRE’s Wayne Bunz and Ray White’s Dan White secured the sale.
The island has a 4.5-star 296-room ­resort built by ­Nature’s Own founder Vaughan Bullivant, who paid $25 million for Daydream in 2000.
The businessman who sold the Nature’s Own vitamin company for $137 million in 1997 spent nearly $50 million on it.
 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/daydream.jpg">
Daydream sits among many Whitsunday, Queensland resorts that have suffered from the high Australian dollar and also the cheaper airfares to Asian holiday destinations. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/vaughan.jpg">
Bullivant (pictured above) said his resort was profitable in 2012.
“Daydream has always been extremely important to me, and I’ve put many years of my life into making it the beautiful tropical island resort that it is today, as have many staff and my Daydream Island management team,” he said on its 2012 offering.
“But I’m 65 now and looking to at some stage put my feet up and enjoy doing other things in life, including more travel and spending time with my family, which has long been my goal.”
It was Village Roadshow that sold the island in 1999. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/11/daydream2.jpg">
The purchasing syndicate reportedly included Keith Williams and Vaughan Bullivant. Williams was bought out.
Daydream Island is one of seven islands of the Molle Group, a sub-group of the Whitsunday Islands in Queensland, Australia. The island is small, measuring one kilometre in length and 400 metres at its widest point.
 
 
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Daydream Island sold by Vaughan Bullivant to Chinese buyers

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Land prices at Sovereign Islands have bounced back.
There was a $1,755,000 sale on <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/hampton-court-sovereign-islands/Property-Details-sold-residential-8157004" target="_blank">Hampton Court through Ray White</a>.
"This is your opportunity to own and build on the last allotment available on Hampton Court," the marketing said.
There was 26 metre waterfrontage with sheltered mooring on the 701 square metre lot with Broadwater and river views.
It last sold at $1,022,500 in 2012.
It was first sold at $1.5 million by Lewis Land in 2005.
The vendors did want $2.1 million in 2009.
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Sovereign Islands, Gold Coast land price recovery

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The mortgagee offering on the 54th floor of the Gold Coast landmark tower Q1 comes with an $890,000 asking price.
Agent Danny Woolbank at Ray White Broadbeach says the three bedroom two bathroom Surfers Paradise apartment has breathtaking views from every room.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-surfers+paradise-118501391" target="_blank">5405 at 9 Hamilton Avenue</a> (pictured in gallery above) is 205 square metres.
It last traded at $1.05 million in 2002.
When initially listed in 2011 it had a $1.2 million asking price.
Fitch’s 13th report covering the performance of Australian mortgages by postcode featured Surfers Paradise in 10th place in the 20 worst-performing postcodes across Australia.
Queensland was the worst-performing state with delinquencies at 1.04%. All states have improved, but Queensland showed the smallest improvement among all states, in the latest Fitch report issued this week.
Queensland dominated the list of the worst 20 suburbs, with eight entries including Airlie Beach in 8th place.
Five of the worst-performing postcodes were located in Brisbane, three of which were in the Gold Coast area.
Surfers Paradise and Mudgeeraba have been previously listed among the worst- performing postcodes, while Oxenford appeared in the list for the first time.
All these postcodes experienced an increase in arrears during the six months to September 2014, and particularly in the 90+ days arrears indicating that the housing market or unemployment may be the main cause of the increases. 
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Q1 Gold Coast mortgagee apartment offering for less than 2002 sale price

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GUEST OBSERVATION
With the Gold Coast tipped to be one of the hotspot property markets of 2015, I thought I would share my tips to buying well on the glitter strip.
Investors should target property areas in and around planned infrastructure developments if they are looking to capitalize on the growth potential the Gold Coast offers.
The Gold Coast’s lifestyle market is fast becoming a more viable option for not only entry level investors, but those who may have capped out in the southern states and are looking to diversify their portfolios as South East Queensland gets set to boom.
The Southport CBD has been earmarked as a priority development area with key projects including a Chinatown precinct, redevelopment of the old Gold Coast Hospital site and the Broadwater Parklands which is already in the final stages and includes the new Gold Coast Aquatic centre.
On the retail front, Broadbeach is already taking off with the $670 million dollar transformation of Pacific Fair which will make it the largest shopping centre in Queensland and the fourth largest in Australia.
Coomera at the Northern end of the Gold Coast can also look forward to a $500 million Westfield development which has just been given the green light after 18 years in the pipeline.
All of these developments will largely contribute to the Gold Coast’s thriving economy over the next 10 years and will certainly result in continued growth in property values in and around any of these developments.
In the past year, capital growth figures show the city has been performing well with strong growth predicted to continue.
With a high demand for quality rentals and tenants prepared to pay premium rents, the coast can expect to see high yields continue in 2015.
While the Gold Coast had a lot going for it, not every investment opportunity was a good one and investors needed to buy well.
The Gold Coast is a lifestyle property market and investors need to tread carefully.
If you’re looking to invest, engage the services of a qualified and accredited buyer’s agent.
They can educate you on the current state of the market enabling you to make informed decisions and save you thousands in the long run.
Always consider how qualified the advice you’re listening to is and what their motives may be – this includes selling agents.
Remember, if they’re not getting paid by you they’re not working for you.
Here are my five tips for buying well in 2015:
<ol>
<li>
Get pre-approved In a fast moving market, buyers need to act quickly. There is nothing more powerful in the negotiation process than a buyer with pre-approved finance and the ability to negotiate on good terms. 
</li>
<li>
Do your homework The key to buying well is knowing a good deal when you see it. As laborious as the task may seem, the more research you do and the more open homes you attend, the better you educate yourself in the market to be able to differentiate between a buy you should hotly pursue and one you should walk away from. 
</li>
<li>
Talk to as many agents as you can As much as you might avoid talking to selling agents, in the current market climate it’s important that you speak to as many as you can on a regular basis so that you don’t miss out on any new listings coming onto the market. Remember though that they are working to get top dollar for the seller so they are not out to do you any favours. 
</li>
<li>
Don’t be afraid to buy before the election Some of our best buys have been leading up to an election when many weary investors keep their hands in their pockets. 
</li>
<li>
Get a fair market valuation prior to finalising negotiations It’s important to know the difference between a fair market valuation and a bank valuation. A bank valuation is carried out once you have agreed on a price and signed a contract so essentially the deal is already done and just because a bank valuation stacks up doesn’t mean you nabbed yourself a bargain. Getting a fair market valuation prior to commencing any negotiation enables you to negotiate confidently and it also gives you the insight to know when to walk away. </li>
</ol>
TONY COUGHRAN is a buyer's agent and certified practising valuer with the Gold Coast-based<a href="https://www.vfmpropertyadvisors.com.au/" target="_blank"> VFM Property Advisors</a>.
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TonyCoughran-WXkUASdYik

Five tips to beat the Gold Coast property market heat: Tony Coughran

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Almost 60% of the 99 properties auctioned at the Gold Coast yesterday sold with Ray White The Event attracting 243 registered bidders
A 770 square metre two level penthouse at the Nirvana by the Sea block in Kirra was the top sale at $3,755,000 among the $20 million auction proceeds.
<a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/kirra/1241869/" target="_blank">1504/1-3 Douglas St, Coolangatta</a> had previously sold for $2.75 million in 2011, but its $4.4 million hopes held since its early 2014 listing proved overly ambitious.
There had been two earlier higher sales in the prime block of 60 apartments developed by <a href="https://www.nirvanabythesea.com" target="_blank">Niecon</a>.
Its 2007 marketing was promoting Kirra as the "new Noosa" with prices from $950,000 to $2,895,000, replacing 1970s brick blocks of units.
Once known as a casual village popular with surfers, Kirra is at the southern end of the Gold Coast.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20one.jpg" alt="">
But sellers of a two-bedroom unit in the Soul building at Surfers Paradise secured just $905,000, which was $795,000 less than it fetched in 2012, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.
The <a href="https://www.rwsp.net/qld/surfers-paradise/1233957/" target="_blank">2502/4-14 The Esplanade, Soul, Surfers Paradise</a> was a 122 square metre offering last sold in June 2012 at $1.7 million to Brisbane buyers.
Onthehouse recently gave a $1.6 million plus guidance.
There were 12 pre-sales among the 58% success rate. There was a 58% initial clearance rate in January 2012. The clearance rate was higher than last year, when around 50% of the homes sold on the day.
The Ray White Surfers Paradise Group chief executive Andrew Bell said the auction was one of the best on record with many properties having four or five bidders.
“Selling close to 60 properties in the space of six hours is a big statement for the state of the local property market,” he told the News Ltd local paper.
The 22nd annual auction showcase, the biggest in Australia, included family homes, investment properties and trophy homes.
28 Lakelands Drive is now under offer. It has four bedrooms, and the listing states that it would comfortably rent for $800 per week.
Bell said investors dominated this year with a strong showing from Melbourne and Sydney buyers.
“The high volume of investors says a lot about market confidence and discretionary spending power,” he said.
Other sales included 50 Falkinder Ave, Paradise Point for $480,000.
The property last sold for $460,000 in 2013.
A one bedroom unit in the Paradise Isles Resort on the Gold Coast was sold for $160,000 to a Sydney investor, with $270 a week plus rental potential,thereby reflecting around a 9% yield. Set on Chevron island, it had first sold back in 1997 for $161,900 at the low rise 40 Burra Street. There was a $189,000 and $167,000 sale in the block last year.
PRD Research recently noted South East Queensland experienced positive property price growth in 2014; despite a soft decline in transaction volume.
<img src="/images/2015/01/27/cobain%20jan%2027%20two.jpg" alt="">
Professional golfer Wayne Grady's riverfront Gold Coast home also went to weekend LJ Hooker auction without success. <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/qld/ashmore/?adid=2011682945" target="_blank">The 1988-built Ashmore house</a> on a 3364 square metre holding had been his home since $850,000 was paid in early 1996. It was listed with $2.79 million hopes in April last year.
It has been a tightly held property having sold at $36,000 in 1978.
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Coolangatta takes the gold but no sales nirvana for all Gold Coast apartment sellers

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Much media attention has been centred on Brisbane as the next property hotspot.
With an inability to distinguish ‘reading’ from ‘research’, more and more property investors follow like sheep thinking all roads point to Brisbane, Logan, or Deception Bay.
For the record, we do believe that parts of Brisbane offer good investment potential over the medium-long term; <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/your-results/" target="_blank">we’ve helped many investors to purchase properties in Brisbane</a> over the past 12 months. That said, we’ve purchased a lot more properties in alternative locations - interstate and other parts of Queensland – because we feel confident that the potential is even better.
Over the last decade, Brisbane was a major beneficiary of net interstate migration. Post-global financial crisis (GFC), the rate of growth has been easing. We continues to monitor this path.
Brisbane had the biggest pre-GFC build up of oversupply out of all Australian capital cities. This, plus the infamous 2011 floods, resulted in property values declining by a combined 15% during 2011-12.
<img src="/images/2015/01/14/pressley%20jan%2014%20on3.jpg" alt="">
A poor climate for construction finance during 2009-2012 meant lower supply and a return to equilibrium.
<a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Supply-and-Demand-State-by-State_2014.11.pdf" target="_blank">Building approvals</a> are now at record levels again so pockets of oversupply and <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/inner-city-brisbane-not-spot/" target="_blank">investor no-go-zones</a> will catch out less informed property investors over the next couple of years. The CBD, West End, South Brisbane, Woolloongabba, Fortitude Valley, Bowen Hills, Newstead, Hamilton, Toowong, Nundah, Chermside, Fitzgibbon, North Lakes, The Gap, Calamvale, Narangba, Murrumba Downs, Hills District are all destined for high levels of new supply.
The jobs outlook for Brisbane is healthier than given credit. In November 2014, Brisbane’s unemployment rate of 5.8% compared favourably to the state and national rates of 6.7% and 6.1%, respectively.
<img src="/images/2015/01/14/pressley%20jan%2014%20two.jpg" alt="">
Brisbane City Council, Australia’s biggest LGA, has been proactive at engaging to do business with Asian countries. As a sign of the confidence that some private investors have in Brisbane, there are several new hotel developments which have added a combined 500 new rooms.
There are some significant major projects currently underway, including a $1.35 billion airport expansion, $1 billion gateway upgrade, $3 billion RNA showgrounds redevelopment, and $1.1 billion Moreton Bay Rail Link.
Pipeline proposals include a <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/brisbane/">$5.2 billion BaT Tunnel</a>, a $3 billion plus integrated resort and casino, and an expanded medical hub at Herston.
Exposure from November’s G20 Summit and the upcoming Commonwealth Games will also benefit Brisbane’s economy.
Simon Pressley is managing director of <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/" target="_blank">Propertyology</a>, a full-time property market analyst, accredited property investment adviser, and Australia’s (REIA) Buyer’s Agent of the Year (2012+2013+2014).
<h2>How to purchase high-performing investment properties: a free Propertyology eBook</h2>
 
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