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?

<html><body>
A Queensland Supreme Court judge has ruled that Gold Coast property developer Rod Lambert must close down his website, which Ray White claims was damaging its brand.
An application to have the website shut down was submitted by Ray White on March 21 and a ruling issued by Chief Justice Paul de Jersey on March 27.
The ruling applies until the trial of the matter is heard or an earlier order is made by the court.
A search on Google shows that the website is no longer available.
<img src="/images/stories/donttrust.jpg">
The court order restrains Lambert, “his servants or agents” from “maintaining or causing to maintain the internet domain www.dontrustraywhite.com or an internet domain or website with the same or similar name”.
The judge has also ruled that Lambert must not distribute or publish any “leaflets, flyers, newsletters or any other similar publications” that promote the website or any similar website.
In previous online postings, Lambert made allegations of misconduct against Gold Coast prestige sales agent Michael Kollosche, who was previously contracted to the Ray White Broadbeach. Lambert accused Ray White of not taking appropriate action against Kollosche.
In this matter, the judge ruled that Lambert must not publish statements that allege that Ray White will not respond in an appropriate manner to “allegations that Mr Michael Kollosche has engaged in fraudulent conduct”.
The injunction does not prevent Lambert from “making formal complaint or giving a statement to the police or statutory bodies with powers relating to the regulation of the real estate industry”.
A spokesperson for Ray White says it could take up to 12 months for the trial to be heard.
Ray White is seeking to have the website permanently shut down.
 
 
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Court compels Rod Lambert to shut down anti-Ray White website

<html><body>
The City of Ipswich recently topped an RBA list of the regions with the highest rates of mortgage arrears.
But land values have remained surprisingly unchanged over the past year.
According to the Queensland Valuer-General’s annual valuation released this week land values in 66 Ipswich localities stayed steady from October 2010 to October 2011.
There was a jump in just one locality across the City of Ipswich since last year, which was Deebing Heights.
Medium prices in the rural locality of Deebing Heights increased 1.3% from $197,500 in 2010 to $200,000 in 2011, according to the valuer general Neil Bray.
Bray found over the whole region land values increased 0.1%, reflecting the static market in the area.
Bray said allowances made in 2010 for flood affected properties had been carried for into the new valuations.
“Apart from isolated changes to reflect environmental changes or local sales evidence residential valuations are predominantly unchanged,” Bray says.
“Minor changes were recorded in commercial values with some neighbourhood shopping centre values increasing slightly.”
 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="width: 460px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Residential localities
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
Previous median value ($)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
New median value ($)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
Change in median value (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Deebing Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
197,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
200,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
1.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Amberley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
86,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
86,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ashwell
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
97,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
97,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Augustine Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
207,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Barellan Point
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
202,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
202,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Basin Pocket
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
131,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
131,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Bellbird Park
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
148,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
148,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Blackstone
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
140,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
140,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Booval
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
132,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
132,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Brassall
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
152,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
152,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Bundamba
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
128,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
128,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Calvert
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
67,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
67,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Camira
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
182,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
182,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Churchill
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
136,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
136,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Chuwar
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
165,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
165,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Coalfalls
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
144,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
144,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Collingwood Park
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
127,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
127,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Dinmore
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
115,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
115,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
East Ipswich
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
126,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
126,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Eastern Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
149,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
149,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ebbw Vale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
123,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
123,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ebenezer
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
93,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
93,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Flinders View
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
155,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
155,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Gailes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
115,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
115,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Goodna
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
124,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
124,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Grandchester
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
68,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
68,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Haigslea
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
130 750
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
130 750
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ipswich
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ironbark
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
108,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
108,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Karalee
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
172,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
172,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Karrabin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
124,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
124,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Lanefield
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
93,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
93,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Leichhardt
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Lower Mount Walker
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
100,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
100,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Marburg
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
94,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
94,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Moores Pocket
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
107,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
107,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Mount Forbes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
70,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
70,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Mount Marrow
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
156,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
156,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Muirlea
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
141,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
141,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Newtown
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
North Booval
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
120,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
120,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
North Ipswich
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
North Tivoli
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
87,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
87,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
One Mile
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Peak Crossing
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
93,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
93,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Pine Mountain
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
183,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
183,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Purga
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
132,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
132,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Raceview
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
138,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
138,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Redbank
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
130,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
130,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Redbank Plains
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
142,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
142,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Ripley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
136,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
136,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Riverview
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
110,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
110,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Rosewood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
119,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
119,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Sadliers Crossing
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
155,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
155,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Silkstone
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
134,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
134,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
South Ripley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
80,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
80,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Springfield
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
165,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
165,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Springfield Lakes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
160,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
160,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tallegalla
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
117,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
117,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Thagoona
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
108,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
108,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Tivoli
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
107,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
107,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Walloon
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
West Ipswich
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
120,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
120,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Willowbank
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
134,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
134,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Woodend
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
142,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
142,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Wulkuraka
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
139,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
139,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
Yamanto
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
157,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
157,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="91">
All residential localities
</td>
<td valign="top" width="133">
139,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="120">
139,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="116">
0
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Ipswich land values remain static despite high rate of mortgage arrears

<html><body>
There's now a tipping website, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess auction five results in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
One of the five Brisbane properties going to auction this week in round six is 40 Union Street, Clayfield. The property was built in 1926 and has been in the Molphy family since then. The last descendent, Dr Ruth Molphy, was a substantial benefactor of many charities and institutions including Prince Charles Hospital, St Hilda's and the RSPCA.
Mark Armstrong of Property Tycoon says: "40 Union Street, Clayfield, in Brisbanes inner north may not be the best-presented property going to auction in Brisbane, but it does have a few things going for it."


"It has never been sold before as it has remained in the same family since it was built in 1926. The property sits on almost 900 square metres and is located within five kilometres of the city."
He points out that although Brisbane properties <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/brisbane-market-struggles-to-maintain-momentum-with-all-five-property-tycoon-properties-passed-in/2012032654002" target="_blank">have struggled to get over the line lately</a>, this one is likely to find a buyer.
"It is a deceased estate, so for auction tippers that means unlike a lot of property in Brisbane it will sell on Saturday."
<img src="/images/stories/unionst.jpg">
If you think you know what it will sell for place a tip at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/">Property Tycoon</a>.
 
 
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Brisbane auction tipping

<html><body>
Queensland's Valuer-General released the annual land valuations for properties in the Gold Coast City Council area this week.
Of the 73 localities in the Gold Coast City region, 43 went down in value, 28 had no change in value and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/the-only-two-gold-coast-suburbs-where-values-have-gone-up-in-2011/2012032954069">two increased in value</a>.
The area had an overall decrease in median values of -5.1%, from $247,500 to $235,000.
Valuer-General Neil Bray says the Gold Coast City Council area’s land values reduced by 8% overall since the last valuation in 2011.
Residential values continued to fall in most localities within the local government area, Bray says.
“Generally land values in the central coastal areas of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach have declined in value by almost 50% since the 2008 peak,” he says.
Decisions on future planned construction projects along with weakening retail, industrial and tourism markets have had negative flow-on effects in spending and growth within the wider community, Mr Bray noted.
 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Localities
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
Median value at 1/10/2010 ($)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
Median value 1/10/2011 ($)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
Change in median value (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Paradise Point
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
490,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
417,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-14.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Runaway Bay
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
415,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
360,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-13.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Arundel
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
247,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
217,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-12.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Labrador
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
255,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
225,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-11.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Surfers Paradise
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
790,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
700,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-11.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Clear Island Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
560,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
500,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Molendinar
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
240,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
215,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Ashmore
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
270,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
242,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Elanora
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
245,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
220,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Hollywell
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
270,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
242,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Jacobs Well
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
220,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
197,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.2
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Benowa
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
345,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
310,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Yatala
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
345,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
310,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Main Beach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
1,000,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
900,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Parkwood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
225,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
202,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Woongoolba
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
140,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
126,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-10
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Alberton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
131,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
118,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Springbrook
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
142,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
128,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Gilberton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
143,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
129,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Steiglitz
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
232,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
210,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Norwell
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
135,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
122,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Helensvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
212,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
192,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Bundall
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
430,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
390,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-9.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Burleigh Heads
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
325,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
300,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-7.7
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Stapylton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
125,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
117,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-6.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Currumbin Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
237,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
222,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-6.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Tugun
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
270,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
255,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-5.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Tallebudgera Valley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
186,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
176,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-5.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Coolangatta
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
375,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
355,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-5.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Currumbin Valley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
187,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
177,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-5.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Tallebudgera
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
251,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
238,750
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Broadbeach Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
510,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
485,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Mount Nathan
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
255,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
242,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Southport
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
255,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
242,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Miami
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
310,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
295,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Ormeau Hills
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
207,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
197,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Bilinga
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
340,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
325,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-4.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Currumbin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
330,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
317,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-3.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Robina
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
275,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
265,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-3.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Carrara
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
237,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
232,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-2.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Biggera Waters
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
280,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
275,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-1.8
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Palm Beach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
305,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
300,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-1.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="111">
Ormeau
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
207,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="136">
205,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="148">
-1.2
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</body></html>

Paradise Point tops the 43 worst-performing Gold Coast localities in 2011

<html><body>
The Queensland Valuer-General has released the annual land valuations for properties in the Gold Coast City Council area this week.
Valuer-General Neil Bray says the Gold Coast City Council area’s land values had fallen by 8% overall since the last valuation in 2011.
Residential values <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/the-43-worst-performing-gold-coast-localities-in-2011/2012032954070" target="_blank">continued to fall in most localities</a> within the local government area, Bray says. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/twenty-eight-localities-on-the-gold-coast-with-values-going-nowhere/2012051354265">They remained stable in two localities</a>.
“Generally land values in the central coastal areas of Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach have declined in value by almost 50 per cent since the 2008 peak,” he says.
Decisions on future planned construction projects along with weakening retail, industrial and tourism markets have had negative flow-on effects in spending and growth within the wider community, Bray notes.
Of the 73 localities in the Gold Coast City region, 43 went down in value, 28 had no change in value and two increased in value.
<table style="width: 470px;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="133">
Residential localities
</td>
<td valign="top" width="137">
Median value at 1/10/2010 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="163">
Median value at 1/10/2011 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="125">
Change in median value (%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="133">
Numinbah Valley
</td>
<td valign="top" width="137">
$147,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="163">
$168,750
</td>
<td valign="top" width="125">
14.6
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="133">
Lower Beechmont
</td>
<td valign="top" width="137">
$131,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="163">
$138,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="125">
4.9
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</body></html>

The only two Gold Coast suburbs where values have gone up in 2011

<html><body>
The Brisbane home that no one wanted to buy finally got sold last month.
The house that was Australia's most heavily discounted property for much of 2011 – 1350 Wynnum Road, Tingalpa – fetched $315,000.
The modest post-war home on an 1,158-square-metre block started its listing in November 2010 with $700,000 hopes, thereby reflecting a 55% price adjustment.
The deceased estate was under contract in August last year, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/bank-stop-overlooked-ugly-duckling-from-selling-in-deteriorating-brisbane-market/2011090251401">but the buyers were unable to get finance</a>. It has recently sold to an investor.
Property analyst Louis Christopher of SQM Research has said that discounting remains rife across the country, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/treasure-island-avenue-home-heads-list-of-most-discounted-properties-in-queensland-sqm-research/2012032754036">with many vendors being forced to accept offers far lower than they hoped</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/wynnum3.jpg">
“Properties from certain pockets within Queensland have definitely undergone harsher discounting in comparison to other states and regions across the country and as we can see from these homes' individual advertisements, there some desperate vendors trying to sell within the area,” he says.
“Although these homes do generally only show the extremities of the market place, it has become evident in recent times that real estate in particular locations within this state has genuinely decreased in value over the last 12 months.”
There had been multiple offers during 2011 for the house but being on an industrial main road, it had its challenges.
“And it was probably listed too high in the beginning,” one of its former listing agents noted.
RP Data says the median house price in Tingalpa is currently about $426,000, which is up on the $425,000 median last August.
The original asking price was at the owner's directive.
The latest selling agent was Scott Watson at Ray White Birkdale.
<img src="/images/stories/wynnum4.jpg">
He marketed the property is being a “prime position 1,158-square-metre block is ready to be split into two with a massive 22-metre frontage, rent out or live in until you’re ready to cash in.
“The three-bedroom, one-bath, one-car home is very solid and surprisingly very quiet, when inside you will think you are in the suburbs.
“Never being sold before, this a chance of a life time and the owner is coast-bound and want this sold now,” he said.
“So if you like making money then you will need to be quick as this will make the phone run hot,” Watson advised potential buyers.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Long overlooked ugly duckling Brisbane house finally finds buyer

<html><body>
The property at 121 Treasure Island Avenue, Karragarra Island, tops SQM Research's list of the most discounted properties in Queensland. Its neighbour 700 metres down the road, 60 Treasure Island Avenue, still appears on realestate.com.au for sale but does not appear on SQM's list.
"At the moment there are a number of forces out there which could have either a positive or negative influence on the Queensland property market," says SQM director Louis Christopher.
"They include factors such as the recent change of government (which could have a positive impact on the housing market) or issues such as the fact that there is still an elevated supply of real estate on the market, particularly in north Queensland and south-east Queensland, which has already had a negative impact on house prices and will most likely continue to unless stock levels decrease."
1
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-karragarra+island-106914618">121 Treasure Island Avenue, Karragarra Island, Queensland, 4184</a>
On the market since: October 23, 2010
Initial asking price: $335,000
Current asking price: $200,000
Reduction: 40%
Days on market: 511
 
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">2</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2009242341">102 Bancroft Terrace, Deception Bay, Queensland, 4508</a>
On the market since: September 26, 2011
Initial asking price: $645,000
Current asking price: $419,000
Reduction: 35%
Days on market: 175
 
 
3
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2009417474" target="_blank">320 Redbank Plains Road, Bellbird Park, Queensland, 4300</a>
On the market since: December 19, 2011
Initial asking price: $1,499,000
Current asking price: $975,000
Reduction: 35%
Days on market: 91
 
4
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D105609896">40 Courageous Court, Newport, Queensland, 4020</a> (pictured)
On the market since: March 29, 2003
Initial asking price: $1.75 million
Current asking price: $1.15 million
Reduction: 34%
Days on market: 1,084
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008986804">64 Beckwith Street, Ormiston, Queensland, 4160</a>
On the market since: May 15, 2011
Initial asking price: $779,000
Current asking price: $525,000
Reduction: 33%
Days on market: 308
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">6</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107475501">65 Brentford Road, Richlands, Queensland, 4077</a>
On the market since: June 18, 2011
Initial asking price: $525,000
Current asking price: $359,000
Reduction: 32%
Days on market: 273
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">7</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107603313" target="_blank">34 Seraya Court, Closeburn, Queensland, 4520</a>
On the market since: August 13, 2011
Initial asking price: $1,450,000
Current asking price: $995,000
Reduction: 31%
Days on market: 217
 
8
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106322479" target="_blank">1255 Gympie Road, Aspley, Queensland, 4034</a>
On the market since: February 20, 2010
Initial asking price: $510,000
Current asking price: $350,000
Reduction: 31%
Days on market: 756
 
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<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">9</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107227469" target="_blank">36 First Avenue, Beachmere, Queensland, 4510</a>
On the market since: March 5, 2011
Initial asking price: $450,000
Current asking price: $310,000
Days on market: 378
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">10</h2>
<a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106826848" target="_blank">226-228 West Mount Cotton Road, Cornubia, Queensland, 4130</a>
On the market since: October 2, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.2 million
Current asking price: $860,000
Reduction: 28%
Days on market: 532
 
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SQM Research also offers a list of the <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research" target="_blank">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
 
 
 
 
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Treasure Island Avenue home heads list of most discounted properties in Queensland: SQM Research

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Boothville House, the stately six-bedroom mansion in the Brisbane suburb of Windsor, remains listed for sale. It has a $4.5 million asking price.
It was built in 1887 for the Queensland National Bank to provide residential accommodation for managers, starting with Henry Wallis Glenny. It took its name after its purchase by William Booth, the son of the founder of the Salvation Army, in 1923. It was The Salvation Army-run Boothville Maternity Hospital for 70 years before it was closed in 1994. Some 80,000 babies were born at Boothville.
It was the transformed into a large family home after its restoration by Carbone Developments, which built villas in its then extended grounds. It has sweeping views across Brisbane, plus glass chandeliers, bay windows, fireplaces and crafted timberwork, and its listing agent Gabrielle Trickey of Ray White Paddington says there’s been much buyer interest. Boothville boasts 29 rooms including six bedrooms and seven bathrooms, a gym and a home theatre.
It retains many historical features, from the servants’ bell in the formal dining area to the oxygen panel in the gym, formerly the hospital operating theatre. It was bought by Melita and Drew Mattsson for $2.05 million in 2004. It sold in 2008 for $3.65 million and again in late 2008 to the current vendor, Queensland gas mining magnate Richard Cottee and his wife, Shauna, who paid $4.1 million. The couple divide their time between the UK and a farm outside Lorne on Victoria’s surf coast, where Shauna raises llamas and sheep.
 
 
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Stately Brisbane mansion Boothville House, formerly Boothville Maternity Hospital, listed for sale

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Tucked away in a special little corner of Queensland is a luxurious utopia with beautiful houses, native animals roaming freely and a prized level of environmental sustainability.
It is a rich man’s hideaway where strict design codes and by-laws ensure it remains an Australian paradise by the sea.
Sunrise at 1770 is near the exclusive Agnes Water between Bundaberg and Gladstone. It takes more than five hours to drive from Brisbane.
Remote by design, the project aimed to become the nation’s premier ecologically sustainable community.
In 2007 and 2008 the UDIA voted it the Best Sustainable Development in Queensland and then Australia. In 2009 at FIABCI’s Prix d’Excellence World Awards it was the first runner-up in the environmental category.
Twenty-five houses have been built in the community, which will allow a maximum of 172 homes on the site, which is surrounded by protected wetlands, beaches and reserves. One of its finest houses has been listed for sale with $2.95 million hopes.
The contemporary Springs Road house, which is owned by property investors Mark and Janene Hulst, was named both Queensland Home of the Year (2002) and Custom Home of the Year.
Noosa designer Steven Kidd of Kidd+co Designers designed this and several other glamorous houses at Sunrise.
“We had a great brief and we did a few houses in a row, which makes a nice vision. Mark’s house has a beautiful internal garden in a wonderfully unique environment. We decided to keep the existing vegetation and turn the house inside out,” Kidd says.
‘The balconies hang off the house. The design concept works with circulation areas plus breakout spaces. It is a timber-framed house with exceptional timberwork inside that was crafted by the builder Mike Murray.”
Given the house is positioned at a 45-degree angle, two faces take in views of the Coral Sea and the famous Springs Beach surf break.
Clean lines create a tree house style of living where sections of space with cantilevered balconies act as a floating canvass with a pristine bushland or the sea as a frame. It is minimalism without forsaking any cosy comforts, since the house is technically savvy and equipped with rain sensors on the atrium windows, an external rooftop sprinkler system for fire control, under-garage water tanks, auto sensor bathroom lighting and in a nod to summertime necessities, climate-controlled wine storage behind the kitchen.
“We built it together and love living at Sunrise. It was a great challenge so we are looking to buy another block of land here and do it all again,” says Mark Hulst.
Sunrise at 1770 has raised boardwalks to two beach clubs with three pools, barbecue pavilions and tennis courts.
To buy into Sunrise, where the Smorgan family owns property alongside bankers, a film producer and a couple surfing identities, is to buy into a body corporate with a green future. The primary water supply comes from rainwater tanks and wastewater is used to supply toilets, a communal car wash and firefighting.
A “dark sky” policy prevails so turtles use their rookeries. Non-native pets are verboten, so local wildlife and Godzilla, the resident two-metre-long goanna, can roam unmolested.
The three-bedroom, three-bathroom Hulst house is listed for sale through Gordon Christian at Harcourts Agnes Water.
 
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andreadixon-oif3j7eKne

Sustainable Agnes Water award winner listed on Queensland’s Discovery Coast

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I like David Koch. I must confess I like Mel, Natalie and Fifi more, but David, by my standards, is a cut above the rest when it comes to daytime television.
But, and this is a big BUT, I like David far less <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/kochie-sets-his-sights-on-estate-agents-and-journalists-in-queensland-property-catastrophe-stoush/2012013053183">when he delivers blanket statements</a> such as a “property catastrophe is underway in places like the Sunshine and Gold coasts”. I was going to stay out of this, but the negative impact of David’s comments has been substantial. The power of celebrity these days cannot be underestimated, and with it should come much more care.
Yes, both coasts have experienced a sustained property downturn. And for generic lifestyle-orientated property in both locations, the decline in value might not yet be over. For well- understood reasons, the current situation is warranted.
But there are always markets within markets and available advice beyond “just don’t go there”. As I <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/seven-positive-signs-for-australias-property-markets/2012021453387">wrote a few weeks back</a>, a property’s value is only partially dependent on the broader market conditions. Studies show that about 40% of growth (or otherwise) can be explained by trends in the overall market. The all-important 60% comes down to more individual factors such as location, the style of housing, its design and inclusions, and the income/demographics of the area.
A major driver behind this 60% is new infrastructure. I have googled David Koch and discovered that on many occasions, he supported such claims. David and Libby’s investment advisory columns frequently advocate such.
So why, David, is a place like Kawana (which is on the Sunshine Coast) up shite creek, when one of the largest infrastructure projects in Australia –the sixth largest teaching hospital in the world – is about to start construction? And in support, there is a hell of a lot more going on in the Kawana area on the Sunshine Coast than most know about. It is, after all, about a kilometre away from the beach, so maybe the Sunrise cameras couldn’t find it.
The statistics are somewhat mind blowing. Let me bore you for a minute or two while I recite some of them:
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/matus.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/matusthumb.jpg"></a>
<ul>
<li>The Sunshine Coast University Hospital or SCUH for short will be a private-public partnership with Queensland Health. The short-listed partnership consortiums are Lend Lease, Thiess/AbiGroup and Lang O’Rourke. Construction is planned to start in 2013, with stage one of 450 beds completed in 2016, expanding to 738 beds in 2021. The hospital will create 2,000 construction jobs and 3,500 permanent jobs once complete. It is expected that more than 15,000 people will visit the hospital each and every day.</li>
<li>
Ramsay Private Hospital Co-located with SCUH. Construction is now underway and in late 2013 this 200-bed private hospital will house 700 permanent employees and create 360 jobs during construction.</li>
<li>
SARC or the Skills, Academic and Research Centre, will provide teaching and research within the hospital campus. A $61 million capital investment, with 150 academic and support staff catering for 1,300 students each year.</li>
<li>
KHIP (don’t you love all these acronyms), or Kawana Health Innovation Park, will be a commercial precinct distributed across a number of sites across the hospital campus.</li>
<li>
Kawana Town Centre and medical precinct. The town centre – adjacent to the SCUH, will commence in 2013 too. The town centre incorporates 80,000 square metres of retail, commercial, community and entertainment facilities as well a medium-density residential sites. The town centre is expected to generate about 5,000 jobs during construction and similar in permanent positions upon completion.</li>
</ul>
The “Kawana Health Hub” – for the sake of calling it something – is a very big regional initiative, comparable with a major resources project. Yet few know about it. It is a game changer, a recovery catalyst, a smart job generator, which the likes of David Koch should be spruiking rather than carpet bombing.
For those who are a little poor at maths, the Kawana Health Hub will employ around 2,000 construction workers at any one time between now and at least 2016. In addition, it is projected – yet international case studies of similar major infrastructure projects suggest a higher multiplier – that 10,000 permanent jobs with be created in the locality. The vast majority will be new jobs.
The back-of-an-envelope demand analysis – relax, I have been doing them for close to 25 years and rarely get this stuff wrong – suggests that 10,000 new jobs will create the demand for between 5,500 and 6,000 new dwellings. Yet the approved residential offerings in the region suggests that 3,500 new dwellings can be supplied in the adjacent Birtinya neighbourhood and a further 1,000 new residents on the beachfront parcel known locally as “Bokarina”.
The projected 10,000 permanent jobs, by the way, exclude those generated from new housing construction, which most readers know can also be substantial.
The average daily spend in the Kawana area over the next five years will be $1.5 million. I repeat – $1.5 million per day.
The Sunshine Coast University Hospital alone is valued at $2 billion and represents almost a quarter of the current Sunshine Coast regional economy. It is estimated that it will inject about $700 million into the Sunshine Coast economy every year and will be the coast’s single largest employer.
Now for the life of me, I don’t see how this part of the Sunshine Coast can be labelled “catastrophic”. Oh, and by the way, three-quarters of the Sunshine Coast’s permanent population of 340,000 actually live within the Kawana catchment area.
So, David, instead of labelling the Gold and Sunshine coasts as “property catastrophes” maybe a more subtle message is needed. May I suggest something like:
“There is little doubt that both the Gold and Sunshine coast residential property markets are doing it tough. Buyers do have a lot of choice and for generic lifestyle-orientated stock; asking prices are still under pressure.
“Astute buyers of older second-hand stock, however, can now buy below replacement cost. Investors should always focus on property adjacent to existing and especially new infrastructure. The most successful residential investors also hold for the long term.
“There are buying opportunities on both coasts. You just need to do your homework first.”
Now, I wonder if this column will get me a gig on Sunrise?
Michael Matusik is the director of independent property advisory Matusik Property Insights. Matusik has helped over 500 new residential developments come to fruition and writes the weekly  <a href="https://matusikmissive.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" title="Matusik's Missive">Matusik's Missive</a>.
 
 
 
 
 
 
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