ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

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Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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

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

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

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

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

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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Many home owners in flood-affected or flood-at-risk regions of Queensland and northern NSW have not taken out insurance against natural disasters, despite claims to the contrary by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA).
The high cost of insurance premiums and social influences have been blamed as factors for the poor take-up.
To date, more than 3,000 properties have been affected by flood waters in Brisbane (Ipswich home below, courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>), with 9,800 insurance claims submitted in Queensland totalling $116 million and around 2,000 in NSW totalling $10 million, according to a report in the Australian Financial Review.
<img alt="insurance" height="294" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/insurance.jpg"> 
According to Allianz figures, as a result of the unaffordable cost of flood cover, 98% of NSW customers with a risk of flood of up to 1 in 49 years have opted out of cover, while the equivalent figure for Queensland is 95%.
The average flood insurance premium offered by Allianz in Queensland is $8,200 but can be as high as $19,000 based on the on the average home and contents sum insured of $385,000 in Queensland.
In NSW, the average annual premium $4,704 but can be as high as $24,000 based on the average home and contents sum insured of $388,500.
These figures are for flood cover only.
They dwarf total insurance premiums (excluding flood cover) of $860 in NSW and $1,250 in Queensland.
In September the Insurance Council of Australia released data showing nearly four in five Australian household insurance policies contain flood insurance.
However, this is predominantly standard flood cover, with just 21,000 out of 2 million policies included in ICA data opting for optional flood cover – presumably of the type offered by Allianz and other insurers covering home owners in high-risk areas.
Allianz spokesman Nicholas Scofield says the key barrier to providing Australians living in flood prone areas with insurance protection “has and always will be the affordability of flood insurance”.
“The main reason is that the insurance model is not best suited for events that have a certainty of happening, rather than just a chance of happening.
“For a house on a flood plain, it is a matter of when not if it will be flooded, so the flood premium starts with a simple formula that begins with the expected value of the loss divided by the anticipated frequency of loss.
“As result, premiums for flood cover for properties vulnerable to flood can be prohibitively expensive,” he says.
In its submission to the federal government's Natural Disaster Insurance Review, commissioned following the 2011 Queensland floods, Allianz proposed a reinsurance-style pool as mechanism to make flood insurance affordable.
“The review picked up Allianz's proposal in its recommendations, however, the government is yet to respond to this aspect of the review,” says Schofield.
The federal government review did not recommend mandatory purchase of flood insurance, leaving it up to home owners in flood-at-risk regions to decide whether they wish to bear the risk.
 
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A research project carried out by Griffith University found that of 500 residents of south-east Queensland surveyed in 2012 (via telephone), more than 40% of respondents did not have flood insurance, or did not have home insurance at all.
The survey found that those respondents who know their homes were at high risk of flooding or who had experienced property damage in the 2011 were more likely to have flood cover on current policies, but did not find a strong positive relationship.
“Statistically, it is not conclusive to suggest that perceived risk and damage experience explain the tendency for non-insurance,” says Alex Lo, lecturer at the Griffith School of Environment at Griffith University, who carried out the research in The Conversation.
It also found that those who could afford the higher flood insurance premiums tended to insure against this disaster, but again there was no strong statistical relationship.
“Household income and affordability are not a good explanation either. The standard assumption does not always hold,” he says.
Lo says the motive to emerge from the study for taking out flood insurance was social influences
“The findings suggest that if the respondents believe that their family or friends would want them to insure, they tend to do so. Also if they believe that other people like them would buy flood cover, they tend to follow suit. The decision is predominantly socially motivated,” he says.
"Interestingly, such social factors are precisely what the Productivity Commission has identified but recommended not to deal with through government policy.
"Certainly there is something the market cannot do, for which the government should at least facilitate. Although it might not be appropriate for them to mobilise social influence directly, they should try to make sure the community has the capacity to spread the message. There is no excuse for the government to avoid addressing behavioural drivers. Governments have been using all sort of measures to encourage good behaviours and punish the bad ones.
"Local community organisations may help increase the voluntary adoption of flood insurance through word-of-mouth. Governments and the industry should support (financially) their efforts and harness the social forces they help to create," says Lo.
Submissions on exposure draft legislation aimed at making it easier for consumers to understand the terms of their insurance policies closed on December 12, led by financial services minister Bill Shorten.
Since the 2011 floods, the government has also introduced a standard definition of flood and a one page key facts sheet for all home and contents policies to help Australian consumers understand what they are covered for as well as launched the National Flood Risk Information Portal – an online “one-stop-shop for flood risk information”.
 
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Most home owners can't afford $8,200 flood insurance premiums as claims rise

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One of Brisbane’s most prominent heritage riverfront homes has sold.
Listed in April 2011, <a href="https://cbmb.com.au/selling/QLD/Brisbane-City/NEW-FARM/House/2P0793" target="_blank">The Moorings </a>– a Tudor-style mansion at <a target="_parent" href="/news">New Farm</a> – has been sold for around an unconfirmed $4.5 million.
Its vendors paid $575,000 in 1993 and it had sold at $35,550, in 1973.
Its most recent official land value was $3 million for the 524-square-metre holding.
The five-bedroom home boasts timber finishes, including red mahogany floors and cast iron features.
Its grassed terraces fronting the river have protected the home during the past great floods in 1974 and 2011.
Legend has it the house was built by an English doctor whose wife cherished a dinner plate embossed with a picture of a grand Tudor house.
The house was built in the image of the picture.
It had been listed most recently through Gold Coast agent Carol Carter of Coldwell Banker.
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Brisbane’s The Moorings, a Tudor-style New Farm mansion, sold 

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The Gold Coast home of international footballer Craig Moore has been listed for onsite February 3 auction. 
The Hope Island house was built after the block cost $665,000 in 2003.
It's been listed through McGrath Property agent Philip Chillemi <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-hope-island-qld-4212/171809/?searchID=25664384" target="_blank">with $1.6 million to $2 million expectations</a>.
'It's one of Hope Island’s most prestigious and beautifully built homes," Philip Chillemi's marketing says.
"Architecturally designed, it offers the ultimate waterfront lifestyle with the privacy of a celebrity home," it says.
Craig Moore captained Australia’s Olympic soccer team in 2004 and played with the Socceroos in the 2006 and 2010 World Cups.
The five-bedroom waterfront home should sell for $1.6 to $2 million at auction on February 3.
It's been on and off the market since June 2011. Late last year Moore was seeking $2.35 million for the property, which is set on a 1,006-square-metre block.
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Retired Socceroo Craig Moore lists on Gold Coast with reduced hopes

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An oceanfront estate with more than 250 metres of direct beachfront has been listed for sale in Rocky Point, Queensland, with offers in excess of $2.9 million being sought.  
Set on 1.15 hectares of land, the two large residences on separate titles were designed by local architect Gary Hunt for veteran developer John Morris.
The L-shaped single-level main residence means all living areas and bedrooms face over water features.
The main residence boats four bedrooms, four bathrooms, shell stone tiled floors throughout and bi-fold doors that fold away to open onto the freshwater pool. 
The newly renovated guest residence includes three bedrooms, two bathrooms. There's bamboo flooring.
The location offers one of the best deep-water frontages from Cairns to Cooktown, allowing the mooring of sizable vessels less than 100 metres from their home.
The estate has been listed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cbbr.com.au/buying/QLD/Cairns-and-Region/PORT-DOUGLAS/House/16P0236">Josh Mezger from Coldwell Banker Barrier Reef Cairns City</a>.
Located on Mossman-Daintree Road <a href="/news">Rocky Point</a>, the property was last traded when bought in 2009 for $2.2 million from the Morris family.
Eric and Conny Visser have decided to move back to The Netherlands to be closer to family.
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Rocky Point oceanfront estate listed with $2.9 million-plus hopes

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The grandest of current listings across Australia is unquestionably the Tallebudgera estate Bellagio La Villa, the home of the horse racing enthusiast and property developer Paul Sweeney and his wife, Viki Farrar.
It is listed for January 31  Ray White auction as a court-ordered separation sale.
No price guide has been given for the 17-hectare estate, set some seven minutes' drive from <a href="/news">Burleigh Heads</a> in the Gold Coast hinterland.
The land holding was bought in 2006 for $7 million.
They reputedly spent a further $8 million constructing their dream residence over the next two years.
Not suprisingly, American reportage of the mansion's auction listing has stressed it's a 27,415-square-foot (2,546-square-metre) mansion of amazing proportions. 
The Sweeneys founded Coral Homes in 1990 after moving from Mayfield West, near Maitland in New South Wales, with the company rapidly expanding to become one of the largest residential developers in Queensland. In its first year of operation, the company sold 25 homes. The business doubled sales each year from 25 to 50 to 100 to 200 and then 400 homes in its fifth year.
Like the market, from that point sales were up and down, but Coral Homes was still able to achieve an average of 20% growth a year to 1,200 homes by around 2008.
The Sweeneys' luxury home features 10 ensuited bedrooms, plus multiple living areas, a library, media and music rooms, a gym, and indoor pool and spa.
There is also a five-car garage-cum-ballroom.
The marketing describes it as the most gracious and elegant horse estates in the region. And there is some evidence to back up that claim as Southern Lord, a Group 1-winning thoroughbred, as born and raised there.
Despite the downturn in the Gold Coast's property market, sales have included a record $12 million for a Sanctuary Cove property and $9.5 million for a house on the Nerang River at Southport. 
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Bellagio La Villa listed as Tallebudgera owners cash in their glorious Gold Coast hinterland chips

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The Gold Coast summer auction seasons is kicking off this weekend. If sold, the properties will total tens of millions of dollars.  
Much of the activity is at the strip's northern end, but Hedges Avenue gets its look-in, too.
Of course most agents are anticipating, or more likely hoping, the Gold Coast property market could be in a state of recovery.
But the last five years has been typically tough for property, with many halving in value.
“Apart from Cairns, no market was affected more than here,” Ray White Surfers Paradise CEO Andrew Bell recently suggested.
While prices are still bouncing off the bottom, sales inquiry and activity has been climbing back.
Bell's numbers indicated a 32% rise in sales volume in November 2012 compared with November 2011.
“In our residential resale markets in just the fortnight since Christmas, we have recorded over 2,300 people through our open homes and inquiries,” says Bell.
“That is up over 41.5% on the corresponding period last year,” he told Fairfax Media.
Bell has sold 14 properties since Boxing Day, with a list of forthcoming auction dates coming up.
“There is no doubt in my mind anyone buying a property in 12 months' time will be paying more than they would at this point in time,” says Bell.
Ray White Surfers Paradise is preparing for its 20th annual summer auction, dubbed The Event – which is now spread over three days, January 27, 30 and 31.
As one of Australia’s largest auctions, The Event will bring more than 100 residential, prestige, industrial and commercial properties as well as land sites and even boats go to auction.
Included in the auctions will be a luxury architectally designed Hedges Avenue home of troubled Gold Coast developer Bruce Tilley. The Gold Coast Bulletin says searches show the Bank of Queensland is owed $7.843 million on the beachfront house, which will be offered on January 31. Property Observer<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/no-expenses-spared-mermaid-beach-property-hits-the-market/2012052254803" target="_blank"> reported the listing in May last year. </a> Tilley held the house through Hedges Avenue Pty Ltd, and receivers Andrew Fielding and David Whyte were appointed to take control of the company in October last year.
The house was built two years ago after Tilley paid $1.4 million for the 405-square-metre landholding in 2000. The replacement cost of the property, which has just two bedrooms and a study, has been estimated to be as high as $10 million. “In two decades The Event has grown to unrivalled heights and is now seen as a litmus test for the regional and national markets for the year ahead,” says Bell.
“The Event acts to spur the market into action, as a result we often see substantial sales activity in the weeks following the auctions.”
Bell says there has been a huge boost in sales to the international market this year, particularly Asian buyers.
He added that growing activity in the prestige sector and the record sale of a $12 million Sanctuary Cove mansion is helping drive buyer confidence.
““It gives the rest of us confidence when Australia’s highest wealth citizens back their intuition that now is the time to get into the market, and as a result we’ve seen steady activity across the residential market following the string of high-priced sales,” says Bell.
The selling season kicks off on January 20 with Lucy Cole Prestige Properties.
Following are Professionals Broadbeach, Ray White Broadbeach and Professionals Paradise Point, with auctions on January 24.
The Event by Ray White kicks off on January 27 as well as another auction by Southern Ray White offices.
Ray White Runway Bay Group and Harcourts Gold Coast Central will have hammers in their hands on January 29 and Ray White Robina/Varsity on January 30.
Three auctions will take place on January 31 by Ray White Surfers Paradise Group Prestige, Professionals Surfers Paradise and LJ Hooker Labrador.
Harcourts Broadbeach-Mermaid Waters and PRDnationwide Surfer Paradise will both have auctions on February 2.
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Gold Coast auctioneers seek to climb out of five-year chasm

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It's the Gold Coast listing that keeps giving – now into its third year.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august16mcivor]}
The striking two-storey riverfront home, designed by Sydney-based architect Alex Popov, sits on Cronin Island with 50-metre frontage onto the Nerang River.
It has been on and off the market since 2011, with its latest auction on-sale now not proceeding to settlement.
It's the much-marketed "Mark McIvor house", which most recently was listed by Fulton Transport boss Gary Fulton, who paid $6.75 million.
The former luxury abode of the Equititrust founder Mark McIvor had gone to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/former-equititrust-boss-mark-mcivor-lists-popov-designed-gold-coast-home/2011081651176" target="_blank">September 2011 auction</a>, but did not <a href="/news">sell until early January 2012</a> when the price was undisclosed.
At its September 2011 auction Stacey McIvor, the wife of merchant banker and property investor Mark McIvor, wept when the five-bedroom riverfront home drew a top bid of $4.55 million.
At the time a disappointed Mark McIvor said the home  had been valued at $6.5 million and that the auction was "a demonstration of a very hard market".
Observers were then highly surprised at the strength of the very bullish $6.75 million price stated in the official DERM land registry paperwork after its January 2012 sale by then marketing agent Michael Kollosche.
The 1,736-square-metre block initially cost $1 million when McIvor bought it in 1994.
McIvor had founded the Gold Coast's own merchant bank, Equititrust, in 1993.
Equititrust, which became known for using a Roman voussoir arch as its marketing logo to suggest structural stability, was among the many unlisted mortgage funds to take a battering following the 2008 financial crisis.
In April 2011 Equititrust confirmed it had stopped paying income distributions to unit holders in two funds housing more than $300 million worth of assets as it accelerated its debt repayments.
Gary Fulton is a freight-traffic operative based in Kemps Creek, NSW.
He tried to sell in in August 2012 after just six months ownership.
It failed to sell at August auction – passed in on a $5.5 million vendor bid by Coldwell Banker agent Alex Caraco – who then had it for November 3 auction.
After the August auction Alex Caraco suggested there had been genuine interest "from a gentleman from Melbourne, a lady in Hong Kong and a doctor in Sydney''. Caraco suggests some other interested parties are using the controversy attached to the property to try to get a bargain.
It sold conditionally in November to Sydney buyers at $5.5 million, with the finance condition being the trigger for the latest contract collapse.
So this week the Southern Cross Drive property is back on the market through Coldwell Banker at $5.5 million – "make an offer" is the owner's instructions.
 
 
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Gold Coast listing that keeps giving

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Property prices in the Queensland mining boom town of Gladstone are starting to cool, with prices for older houses and units falling by as much as 20% in some cases, according to property valuers at Herron Todd White (HTW).
HTW describes the Gladstone market – driven by a number of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and coal projects – as “volatile”, with a stabilisation in rents flowing through to softer capital values.
HTW reports of a “new phase in the Gladstone residential market” noting that that vacancy rate has increased from just 0.5%  at the start of 2012 (with minimal vacancies particularly noticeable in three- and four-bedroom dwellings and two- and three-bedroom units and townhouses) rising to between 1% and 2% by the end of the year and “trending upwards”.
“We are now seeing declines in values from what was being achieved approximately 12 months ago," HTW says.
“For the first six months of 2012 we saw evidence that the market was stabilising or softening with some values creeping back 5%.
“In the last four months, transactions have shown values have declined further. New housing and unit stock has come back by up to 5%, whereas older housing and unit stock has come back by as much as 20% in some cases," says HTW in its December report.
“We are seeing an ever increasing number of current contracts that are far below a value that could have been achieved at the beginning of 2012,” says HTW.
These observations follow property market analyst Michael Matusik declaring the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/gladstone-s-mining-related-property-boom-over-michael-matusik/2012081556036">Gladstone mining-related property boom over in August last year</a>, with hotspotting.com.au's Terry Ryder saying around the same time that the savviest of investors were in the market 12 to 18 months prior.
However Matusik refined his view on Gladstone towards the end of last year, suggesting it remained a<a href="https://matusikmissive.com.au/2012/11/27/g-10/" target="_blank"> "healthy real estate market"</a> with reference to the success of a recommended new off-the-plan development, <a href="https://www.stoneapartments.com.au/" target="_blank">Stone Apartments</a> near the Gladstone city centre, now 70% sold out.
According to HTW, local selling agents are reporting a loss of confidence in the market with recent research indicates that the volume of unit and dwelling accommodation available in Gladstone has increased significantly.
 
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Recent sales show a number of older properties failing to sell at auction and then selling at reduced prices following long listing campaigns lasting many months.
These include this three-bedroom house on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-telina-110971499">Finchley Street in Telina</a>, which sold through Kerry Connor of Go Gecko Gladstone in mid-December for $398,500 – an 11% discount to its July 2012 listing price of $449,000.
Another recent sale was<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-south+gladstone-109519076"> this 1950s four-bedroom house</a> on Martin Street in South Gladstone, which sold through Margie Richards of PRDnationwide Gladstone for $445,000 in November.
RP Data records indicate that it failed to sell at auction in February and April and was then listed for sale in May at $478,000. The asking price was reduced to $469,000 in August and then reduced further to $449,000 in May before finally selling for $445,000.
In a recent <a href="/news">Property Observer webinar</a> looking at the prospects for regions versus cities in 2013, Terry Ryder highlighted rising rents as being a leading indicator of rising prices, but with a lag period of about a year.
In the case of Gladstone, Ryder says the first big rent rises started happening in 2011, but property prices only really lifted in 2012 – rising about 16%.
The stabilisation in Gladstone rents, as reported by HTW, suggests that the prospects for price growth are weaker in 2013.
In its assessment of the Gladstone market, HTW says that at the start of 2012, it predicted that activity would remain high and demand would stay very strong across all residential property types.
“We also stated that values were already at record high levels and we were unsure just how much higher prices would go.
“Over the course of this year, confidence in the market has dropped slightly, activity remains strong however not at the levels we were experiencing during 2011 and the record high prices have started to soften.
“We are now seeing declines in values from what was being achieved approximately 12 months ago."
HTW says it is aware of extensive land and unit projects being developed in the area with demand for these products being “moderate to high”.
“However, as more and more stock is produced and made available to the market, it is effectively increasing the competition in the area and giving potential purchasers a greater degree of product selection.
“The demand for newer stock with high rental returns now outweighs the demand for older existing stock. This has forced prices down and we are now seeing a greater differentiation in values,” says HTW.
HTW says it is difficult to gauge the actual level of demand and whether prices are “at market” due to a high percentage of available vacant land marketed and sold by specialist project marketers off the plan to “out of town investors” with none of these pre sales settling until construction of the estate is complete.
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Gladstone property market cooling, with some 20% price corrections: HTW

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Bartinon, the seven-bedroom waterside mansion in Sorrento, could enjoy the prospect of the slightly rising prestige price tide on Queensland’s Coast Coast.
It's back on the market through Lucy Cole, having been on and off the market since the highest bid of $7.25 million offered at 2011 auction fell short of the $8 million paid in April 2009.
Transport tycoon Douglas Kefford bought it from Cameron Davis, from the Samtay Group, and his wife, Lynette.
Prestige prices on the Gold Coast got a slight fillip last year with agents suggesting sales activity indicated the market was endeavouring to bounce off the bottom of previous lows.
The seven-bedroom early 1980s Bartinon was built by tycoon Sir Justin Hickey and his wife, Lady (Barbara) Hickey.
The name of the one-hectare Riviera estate incorporates the initials of their five children.
Hickey, the Marrickville-born insurance magnate who started his career cutting lawns, moved to the 250-squares house in the early 1980s after selling his Emerstan Drive, Castle Cove, house to businessman Phil Cave.
With 85 metres of frontage, it is one of the largest residential blocks on the Nerang River on the coast.
Davis paid $6,665,000 in 2006 to buy it from former Fraser Island tourism operators Sidney Melksham and Angela Burger.
The 6,500-square-metre riverfront Sorrento property previously sold for $4.25 million in 2001 when offloaded by Indonesian industrialist Alimin Soenario.
Soenario had set a $3,125,000 record in 1994 when he bought it on its then 9,000 square metres.
Kefford, who has spent only four or five weeks a year at the house on Marseille Court, has it listed with offers due by January 31.
Selling agent Lucy Cole of Lucy Cole Prestige Properties told the Australian Financial Review that it was hard to name a price in the current market but the vendors were "keen to negotiate."</body></html>

Sorrento mansion Bartinon back on the market

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The north shore is shaping up to be the top-performing Gold Coast market as buyers take advantage of reduced prices on a number of projects in the hands of receivers.
There were a total of 54 sales recorded across nine medium- and low-rise projects on the north shore, making it the top-performing precinct for the third consecutive quarter, with a total of 156 sales for the first nine month of the year, according to September 2012 quarter figures from Colliers International, which were released just before Christmas.
The north shore precinct includes suburbs from <a href="/news">Hope Island</a> to <a href="/news">Biggera Waters</a>, about 15 minutes from <a href="/news">Surfers Paradise</a>.
The report provides an overall favourable impression of the Gold Coast apartment market, reporting 140 sales across high-, medium- and low-rise sectors over the three months to September – an increase of 5% on the previous quarter and 43% up on the same period last year.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2012/12/colliersdec20.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/colliersdec20thumb.gif"></a>
Tony Holland, Colliers International residential project marketing director, says price growth in the new apartment market is yet to be seen, but an “impending supply shortage would likely lead to strengthening prices at some point down the track”.
“Based on the current quarterly selling rate, the supply of new apartments could be taken up within 1.9 years, which is the lowest expected absorption period in two years, and if the sales rate increases this time frame will be reduced.
In contrast, the more up-to-date <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/heavily-discounted-hilton-surfers-paradise-the-only-notable-gold-coast-high-rise-seller-in-november-quarter-midwood/2012121958540" target="_blank">Midwood Report</a> for the November quarter shows just 45 sales (19 in high-rise projects), a 50% drop on a year ago, and has more than 700 high-rise apartments available for purchase, indicating a much longer supply pipeline.
Colliers International reports 26 high-rise sales over the September quarter.
“The [north shore] figures exceed annual sales for 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008. With one more quarter still to be reported, 2012 is shaping up to be a standout for this precinct,” says Colliers International research manager Lynda Campbell, who compiled the report.
“The increased sales rate during 2012 has been as a result of several projects falling into the control of receivers or financiers who have reduced prices and made concerted efforts to sell down remaining apartment stock.
“This has been an ongoing process and has resulted in stock levels reducing significantly, particularly at Hope Island where only 28 new apartments remain on the market, the majority of which we would expect to see sold over the next six months, if not sooner,” she saids.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/mistral.jpg">
Mistral at Harbour Quays (pictured above) was the best-performing project, recording 17 sales during the September quarter, followed by the now sold-out Ilanah Aqua development at Hope Island (pictured below), with 12 sales.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/ilanah2.jpg">
Mistral, currently under construction, features 60 one- and two-bedroom apartments being developed by the Emandar Group. There have been 33 sales recorded to date, with 27 apartments still available for purchase.
One-bedroom apartments start from $309,000.
The Emandar Group has told Colliers International that the remaining apartments are under contract, with the project expected to sell out during the December quarter.
If sales continue at the current rate and no new projects are marketed off the plan, overall supply could be taken up in just over 14 months.
Supply will dry up in just three months in the low-rise sector at the current sales rate.
Analysis by Colliers International shows there are around 1,400 apartments in various stages of planning and gaining approvals.
All planned apartments are in the low- and medium-rise sectors, with around 45% mooted for Hope Island.
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