Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.

At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

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“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”

Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.

Joel Robinson

Coronation champions terraces as a key piece of Sydney’s housing mix

Private equity real estate firm Conquest has entered into a $220 million partnership with Woolworths’ development arm, Fabcot, to deliver its long-awaited Waterloo project on Bourke Street.

The Bourke Street development was first flagged by Fabcot back in 2021 as part of its push into Sydney’s residential market. However, progress has since stalled, with no activity on site amid a number of design revisions in consultation with the City of Sydney.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a>, which is actively planning more than $6 billion worth of new developments, predominantly mixed-use precincts, is now set to move the project forward.

The current plans include between 110 and 120 apartments across two buildings designed by Bates Smart at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/923-935-bourke-street-waterloo-nsw-2017">923 Bourke Street</a>. The scheme will incorporate a portion of apartments reserved for key workers, alongside premium commercial space at ground level, including a full-line Woolworths supermarket.

Construction is expected to commence in the second half of 2026.

Michael&nbsp;Akaawi, CEO of Conquest, said the partnership reflects the firm’s commitment to "convenience-led" urban renewal."

"We are preparing to commence construction in the second half of this year," Akaawi says.

"Along with Woolworths, we look forward to delivering the first major supermarket to the growing Waterloo community, integrated with premium new apartments and specialty retail shops. Our focus is on creating a seamless lifestyle hub where essential services are at the doorstep, saving residents time and enhancing their quality of life."&nbsp;

<img alt="Conquest" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8beee83-ef9b-446b-a3b3-1e2fe596512b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-01%20at%2011.08.46%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=raYhGepiLUJfx4InLPRRJduA3ftDJ_kS" />

The news comes just a week after Conquest went to the NSW Government to upsize its plans for Castlecrag's Quadrangle Shopping Centre.

Conquest purchased the site for just shy of $70 million last year, with existing plans in place for a mixed-use residential and retail precinct comprising 38 luxury apartments.

Those plans have now been significantly expanded, with the developer lodging a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority for 150 apartments across two 11-storey buildings. The apartments will sit above a four-storey podium, incorporating specialty retail tenancies and five levels of basement car parking, on the 5,166 sqm site at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/100-edinburgh-road-castlecrag-nsw-2068">100 Edinburgh Road</a>.

Conquest has been increasingly active in the development space in recent years. The group acquired the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/eastlakes-nsw-2018">Eastlakes</a>&nbsp;Shopping Centre redevelopment, where it plans to deliver more than 1,000 apartments above a new retail precinct, and has also lodged a $900 million State Significant Development Application for a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/conquest-unveils-900m-stanmore-village-vision-for-landmark-inner-west-site">mixed-use precinct in Stanmore</a>.

Conquest partners with Woolworths to deliver mixed-use Waterloo project

A shift away from Sydney’s industrial past has left parts of the inner south defined by contrast, brick warehouses repurposed into dining precincts, former factory streets softened by landscaping and pedestrian activity.

Rosebery is one of those suburbs. Over the past decade, it has undergone significant gentrification, anchored by The Cannery, which has helped reposition the area as one of the inner city’s most sought-after lifestyle pockets.

What hasn’t kept pace with that transformation is new residential supply, which has remained relatively limited. Builder-developer Deicorp identified that gap early, securing a site in 2019 and delivering what is now one of the suburb’s most architecturally distinctive developments.

To realise the vision, Deicorp engaged Candalepas Associates to design The Rothschild, a project that is immediately recognisable from the street.

Completed in 2025, The Rothschild comprises two buildings across Rothschild and Mentmore Avenues, delivering 176 apartments. The development replaces a former industrial site, retaining a material and structural dialogue with its past while introducing a more resolved residential framework. The scale is deliberate but not monolithic, broken into forms that engage both street frontages, with retail at ground level and two levels of basement parking below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221665]

From the street, the architectural intent is clear. Off-form concrete columns run through the façade, establishing a repeated structural rhythm that gives the building its visual weight. These are paired with deep-set arches and sections of exposed brickwork, creating a layered elevation that reads less like a typical apartment block and more like a reinterpretation of industrial architecture.

The material palette is intentionally restrained, with concrete left exposed and brick used to define mass rather than decoration. The result is a building that stands out through proportion and repetition, rather than height or glazing.

This approach continues internally. A central landscaped courtyard sits between the two buildings, anchored by an olive grove that acts as both a visual and spatial focal point. Rather than functioning as residual space, the courtyard is designed as a shared ground plane, where circulation paths, seating areas and planting come together to create a usable communal environment. Its positioning allows natural light to penetrate deep into the site while maintaining separation between residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221666]

Within the apartments, the planning follows a clear and functional logic. Entry points lead directly into open-plan living areas, with kitchens positioned as central elements alongside dining and lounge spaces. These zones extend to balconies or external openings, maintaining a visual connection to either the courtyard or the street.

Kitchens prioritise practicality, with generous bench space, ample storage and European appliances configured for everyday use. Bedrooms are typically set back from the main living areas, creating quieter zones within each residence, with separation achieved through layout rather than material change. Bathrooms are compact but efficient, incorporating mirrored cabinetry and integrated storage to maximise space. Across all residences, the emphasis is on clarity of movement and functional planning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106843 project_image_fid=221669]

At ground level, retail and hospitality uses extend the building’s presence beyond its residential function. A café or restaurant space, alongside communal amenities such as a music room and rooftop areas, positions the development as part of a broader urban network rather than a standalone project. These shared spaces reinforce a lifestyle where the building operates as an extension of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Rosebery’s proximity to Green Square, The Cannery and nearby parklands supports this model of living, where much of daily life is within walking distance. The Rothschild sits comfortably within that network, contributing to the streetscape through its distinctive architecture, while internally organising space around light, structure and communal use.

The Rothschild is now complete and ready to move in, with limited residences remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106843]

The Rothschild reinterprets Rosebery’s industrial DNA into residential form

KTQ has unveiled&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/casilia-16-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Casilia</a>, the final residential release within the Kirra Point precinct which really kicked off the boom in the area back in 2019.

The final stage comprises&nbsp;87 residences and marks the culmination of a long-term, family-led vision for Kirra Point, as the precinct moves toward completion in tandem with the development.

Around $100 million in sales have been achieved already, close to 35 per cent of the residences secured ahead of launch. There have been a significant number of buyers returning from the first stage of the development, Miles Residences, securing another property within Kirra Point.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368410]

Selling agent Tim Keenan from Keenan Byrne said the response reflects both the scarcity of the offering and Kirra’s growing reputation as a premium coastal market.

“This is effectively Kirra’s final act, the last release within what has become one of the Southern Gold Coast’s most tightly held beachfront precincts,” Keenan said.

“We’ve seen exceptionally strong pre-sale interest, from VIP waitlists through to off-market enquiry, which speaks to both the quality of the product and the confidence buyers have in the precinct. What’s particularly compelling is the number of buyers returning from Miles, either upgrading or investing again, which is a strong signal of how the precinct has been received."

Keenan adds that at the same time, north-facing beachfront remains exceptionally rare in Australia, limited to places like Noosa, Byron and Kirra, which is underpinning long-term value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368415]

Positioned along one of Australia’s few true north-facing beaches, Casilia offers a mix of two and three-bedroom residences with pricing ranging from $1.87 million to $7.15 million and two exclusive penthouses. Residences are oriented to capture varying outlooks, from uninterrupted Pacific Ocean views across Kirra Beach to hinterland vistas, with upper levels and shared amenity taking in sweeping perspectives along the Gold Coast coastline.

At rooftop level, a north-facing pool deck captures expansive, uninterrupted views over Kirra Beach and north towards Surface Paradise. The space incorporates a heated resort-style pool, mineral spa, sun lounges and a covered BBQ cantina.

Buyer profiles are broad, typically aged between 40 and 70, with a strong skew toward second-home ownership, drawn by a combination of lifestyle, relative value, proximity to Gold Coast Airport and lower congestion compared to more established markets such as Byron Bay and Noosa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368414]

The project is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ktq-group">KTQ Group</a>, a family-owned Australian property group with a diverse portfolio spanning residential, hospitality and commercial developments. The group has delivered a number of notable projects across sectors, including the award-winning Elements of Byron resort, demonstrating its depth of experience across both hospitality and residential development.

Known for its long-term approach to place-making, KTQ Group retains a vested interest in its projects, often holding assets within its portfolio, which has also helped build trust among buyers and reinforced confidence in both the vision and delivery certainty of the precinct.

“Casilia represents the final opportunity to secure a residence within Kirra Point and brings to market the last release within our long-term vision for the precinct," KTQ Group's Jeremy Holmes said.

"Kirra Point has been more than a decade in the making, and that timeframe reflects the care behind each decision, it takes listening, balance and vision to arrive at something that feels right for the location.

“Our approach has always been to deliver Kirra Point as a destination in its own right, a connected coastal neighbourhood integrating residential, hospitality and wellness, rather than a standalone project. It’s a vision that respects place, pace and permanence, and contributes to a sense of community that feels authentic to Kirra.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152295 project_image_fid=368411]

Once complete, the Kirra Point masterplan will incorporate a mix of dining establishments, bars and cafés, alongside the Kirra Point Health Club and a future 91-room independent resort hotel, creating a walkable, integrated lifestyle precinct.

Architecutue and interiors at Casilia have been designed by the experienced design houses of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/little-boat-projects">Little Boat Projects</a> and O’Neil Architecture &amp; Interior Design, The design moves beyond the conventional coastal apartments, instead taking cues &nbsp;from the surrounding landscape - layering natural materials, soft curves and warm textures to create spaces that respond to light, airflow and the rhythms of coastal living.

Residences are designed with an array of floorplates, generous proportions and intuitive flow, while at ground level Casilia connects into the broader precinct, where future laneways, retail and hospitality offerings will contribute to a neighbourhood defined as much by how people live day-to-day as its beachfront position.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152295]

The final residential release within the Kirra Point masterplan is set to launch, as strong pre-sales signal sustained demand for the Southern Gold Coast

A decade in the making: KTQ launches Casilia at Kirra Point

South East Queensland developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a>’s entry into the Gold Coast apartment market has progressed from pipeline to market, with its Chevron Island project Bronze on Chevron now formally available to purchase ahead of a planned 2029 completion.

The 119-apartment development on Mawarra Street marks the Brisbane-headquartered builder-developer’s first residential play in the Gold Coast, following its expansion south from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> comprises a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, with pricing starting from just over $1.5 million. The project is being delivered under Gardner Vaughan’s fully integrated model, with the group acting as both developer and builder, a structure it has consistently applied across its South East Queensland portfolio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367182]

Architecture has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jeremy-ferrier-landscape-design">Jeremy Ferrier</a>. The building presents as a single-tower scheme, with a focus on maximising outlook across both the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Nerang River.

Apartments have been planned with open-plan living zones extending to generous balconies, a response to the site’s dual-aspect positioning between river and ocean. Interiors follow a restrained coastal palette, with two colour schemes offered, and an emphasis on natural light and cross-ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367181]

Resident amenity is concentrated across more than 1,250 sqm and includes a resort-style pool, gym, yoga lawn and rooftop entertaining areas. A function space with catering facilities forms part of the upper-level offering, alongside north- and south-facing outdoor areas.

Ground level will incorporate two retail tenancies, intended to extend the existing village character of the surrounding streets.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367200]

The project sits within walking distance of Thomas Drive’s established dining strip, while maintaining proximity to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> beach and broader Gold Coast amenity. The location, positioned on Chevron Island between the river and coastline, has increasingly attracted mid- to high-density development in recent years as the precinct evolves beyond its low-rise origins.

Gardner Vaughan’s move into the Gold Coast was first signalled in 2025, with the group identifying the region as a natural extension of its operations. Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge described the expansion as both “strategic and natural”, citing demand for well-designed apartments in lifestyle-driven markets.

Construction is expected to complete in early 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

Gardner Vaughan brings Bronze on Chevron to market as Gold Coast debut

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?

Morris Property Group's popular Burleigh Heads apartment development Sandbar Burleigh just has a handful of apartments on its completion.

The 26-level, 163-apartment development at&nbsp;1969-1971 Gold Coast Highway&nbsp;is just 250 metres from Burleigh’s pristine beach, offering almost three kilometres of the 57-kilometre Gold Coast coastline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7013 project_image_fid=86634]

The media room, open-plan living, kitchen and dining area, and all bedrooms are oriented towards the balcony and the view. The spacious 31 sqm balcony forms an L on the outer perimeter of the apartments, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors and the expansive views of the ocean, cityscape and Gold Coast hinterland from different angles.&nbsp;

These contemporary apartments are thoughtfully designed to evoke the ambience of beachfront living.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7013 project_image_fid=86637]

Inside, the three-bedroom apartments benefit from timber floors through the living and dining areas and are well-appointed with premium cooking appliances by Franke and an ILVE integrated fridge/freezer in the kitchen.&nbsp;

The bedrooms are softly carpeted for extra comfort and acoustic purposes and come with a wardrobe fit-out, including shelves, removable hanging rails, and opaque and mirrored sliding doors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7013 project_image_fid=86636]

The tiled bathrooms feature a semi-frameless shower screen with a Parisi rail shower, a Parisi frosted glass shelf, vanity basin and tap set, and a Parisi Slim rimless wall-faced toilet suite.

With a complete suite of deluxe finishes and European fitments, the apartments also include abundant storage space and secure basement car parking.

Featuring an entire level dedicated to recreation, Sandbar features a fully equipped gym, yoga deck, residents' lounge, covered BBQ area, and swimming pool exclusively accessible to all residents.

The three-bedroom apartments start at $2,799,900.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7013]

The three-bedroom apartments start at $2,799,900

Final opportunity to buy at Sandbar Burleigh as construction completes

Mosaic Property Group has received the green light for its revised development application as it progresses with Isabel by Mosaic.

Situated in a rare, coveted beachfront position on The Esplanade in Burleigh Heads, the <a href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">18-level residential development</a> comprises 28 luxury apartments and is part of Mosaic's Masterpiece Series.

They've tweaked the designs which were approved from a former development application, when Forme were set to develop Sea to designs by Koichi Takada. The update focused&nbsp;on adjusting the floor-to-ceiling height following detailed design modifications.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99968 project_image_fid=229001]

The City of Gold Coast has approved the changes, allowing the maximum height to reach 54.45 metres above ground, citing the adjustment as "inconsequential and negligible" within the context of an 18-storey building.

Gatehouse Architects was responsible for the updated plans. Mosaic reported that the height adjustments were necessary “to address servicing obligations”.

Mosaic's overview of <a href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">Isabel</a> describes the architecture as "taking direct cues from the natural beauty of its surroundings, featuring graceful curves, expansive glazing, floating balcony slabs, and generous outdoor living spaces.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99968 project_image_fid=229005]

By the end of October, Mosaic Property Group had <a href="/news/qld/mosaic-secure-quick-100-million-in-sales-at-isabel-by-mosaic-burleigh-heads">already achieved $100 million in sales for the Isabel project</a>. The residences, ranging from three and four-bedroom half-floor and full-floor apartments and two split-level penthouses with private rooftop pools, attracted buyers from both local and interstate markets.

Prices for these luxury residences ranged from $4.5 million to $10 million, reflecting the high demand for premium living spaces in the Burleigh Heads area.

Each apartment showcases impeccable craftsmanship and lavish finishes, with open-plan living areas leading onto expansive balconies overlooking ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99968 project_image_fid=229004]

"Living spaces span up to 482 sqm on one level and are adorned with ultra-premium materials and finishes, showcasing bespoke craftsmanship that marries aesthetics and functionality, elevating coastal luxury to unparalleled heights," the overview added.

The heart of the home is a gourmet kitchen adorned with premium finishes and top-tier appliances.

Residents will also enjoy a virtual concierge service and world-class hotel-style amenities, including a state-of-the-art gymnasium, sauna, steam room, pool, spa, and sun deck.

<a href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">Isabel by Mosaic</a> embraces an eco-conscious approach with best-practice sustainable design principles of industry-leading accreditation programs, ensuring comfort and environmental responsibility.

Mosaic is targeting a late 2025 completion of <a href="/new-apartments/isabel-by-mosaic-96-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads">Isabel by Mosaic</a>, another built by their construction arm Mosaic Construction.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=99968]

By the end of October, Mosaic Property Group had already achieved $100 million in sales for the Isabel project

Mosaic secure approval for Isabel by Mosaic in Burleigh Heads

High-end multi-residential developer Only Up Development has introduced more luxury to the Bilinga beachside with its latest apartment development, LUMA.

LUMA comprises a boutique collection of nine full-floor apartments, each offering unobstructed ocean and hinterland views just 150 metres from North Kirra Beach behind the North Kirra Surf Lifesaving Club.

The nine-level building features beach-facing balconies and a white sand-coloured facade with a panelled and arched-designed exterior accent wall, softened by cascading greenery from the balconies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108955 project_image_fid=243776]

Designed to accommodate a diverse range of residents, from young professionals to families and retirees, the generously sized residences offer options for three bedrooms plus a multipurpose room. Internal spaces measure 182 sqm with an additional 24 sqm of balcony space, providing ample room for indoor-outdoor coastal living.

The apartments feature a modern, elegant aesthetic with high-quality finishes, natural materials, and open-plan living areas that enhance space and light.&nbsp;

Integrating open-plan living with spacious outdoor terraces creates an ideal setting for relaxation, entertainment, and enjoying the coastal air.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108955 project_image_fid=243775]

The multipurpose room adds flexibility to the living space, serving as a home office, study, or additional living area.&nbsp;

Master bedrooms offer a private yet open atmosphere, with floor-to-ceiling glazing providing panoramic views of North Kirra Beach.

Master ensuites boast a designer freestanding bathtub, his and her vanity with floating cabinets, oval basins, curved mirrors, and gold fittings.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108955 project_image_fid=243774]

The neutral yet warm interior design palette and high-end finishes reflect meticulous attention to detail, providing residents with a customisable canvas to make their apartments feel like home.

"We’ve taken a holistic approach to the design of the complex, with a focus on creating a sense of community and connection among residents," Only Up Development said.

LUMA residents can access communal spaces, including a rooftop with views, barbecue area, communal garden, fitness centre, a swimming pool, and relaxation areas, promoting a balanced, social, and healthy lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108955 project_image_fid=243773]

Conveniently situated along Golden Four Drive, LUMA is a short drive from the Gold Coast Airport and within walking distance of the beach, cafes, shopping centres, schools, medical services, and public transport.&nbsp;

The development is scheduled for completion in June 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108955]

"We’ve taken a holistic approach to the design of the complex, with a focus on creating a sense of community and connection among residents," Only Up Development said.

More Bilinga beachside as LUMA apartments launch

Former footballer Scott Crow has secured approval for a Broadbeach apartment tower.

Crow, who played for both Collingwood and Hawthorn, is set to developer a 33-level tower on a large 1,750 sqm site at <a href="/new-apartments/33-37-armrick-avenue-broadbeach">33 Armrick Avenue</a>. Designed by <a href="/architects/plus-architecture" target="">Plus Architecture</a>, the 203-apartment tower will take on a tall, curved form that embraces the sub-tropical coastal lifestyle.&nbsp;

It will have a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="First Look: Plus-designed Broadbeach apartment tower set for Armrick Avenue" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-14%20at%205.40.56%20pm.png?VersionId=.yagfyhJl9dNxPEZqOnG6XqcrZG5TqK9" />Render of the proposed Armrick Ave development. Credit: Plus

Crow filed the development application last September, around 14 months ago from application to approval.

In their design statement submitted to the Gold Coast City Council, Plus noted that the project&nbsp;embodies the nostalgic character of the Gold Coast, with a contemporary, well considered architectural response&nbsp;through form, materiality and response to climate and context.

Level three of the podium will house the recreation level, with plans for a gym, outdoor lounge and fire pit, yoga deck, two small cold pools, a large pool, complemented by floating day beds, a spa and shallow pool, private cabanas, lounge terrace, sauna and steam rooms, powder room, residential storage areas, barbecue areas and a bar nook.&nbsp;

The apartments will begin from level five, with eight apartments per floor until level 21.

<img alt="First Look: Plus-designed Broadbeach apartment tower set for Armrick Avenue" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-14%20at%205.41.32%20pm.png?VersionId=73pjIa6mHmcWB_R9zi4dE1Tkv4MLD3Hn" />Render of the Armrick Ave pedestrian entry. Credit: Plus

Taking up stock in the upper levels of the tower is a collection of sub-penthouses and penthouses.&nbsp;

Level 31 comprises four sub-penthouses, each with a master suite, as well as two additional bedrooms and bathrooms, a laundry room, multi-purpose room, a butler’s pantry, as well as an open plan kitchen, dining and living space that opens to a private outdoor space.&nbsp;

Two two-storey penthouses top out the development, with one occupying the northern area of the floorplate and the second in the southern.&nbsp;

The two penthouses mirror one another with the internal design, comprising three-bedrooms, a multi-purpose room, a laundry, a powder room, and an open plan kitchen, dining and two living areas.&nbsp;The eastern side of the penthouses will comprise a pool, sun deck, outdoor kitchen and barbecue area, dining as well as a fire pit.

<img alt="First Look: Plus-designed Broadbeach apartment tower set for Armrick Avenue" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-09-14%20at%205.51.41%20pm.png?VersionId=Z37u55IdSlxK5e1mLDi1L7D.qgghznyK" />Render of the Armrick Ave facade. Credit: Plus&nbsp;

The tower will sit a few doors down from Morris Property Group's recently launched <a href="/new-apartments/crest-broadbeach-13-armrick-avenue-broadbeach">Crest Broadbeach</a> at 13 Armrick Avenue.

<a href="/new-apartments/crest-broadbeach-13-armrick-avenue-broadbeach">Crest</a> is Morris's eighth apartment development in Broadbeach. That will have 157 apartments designed by Guida Moseley Brown Architects.

The tower will sit a few doors down from Morris Property Group's recently launched Crest Broadbeach at 13 Armrick Avenue

Former footballer secures approval for Gold Coast apartment development

Sydney-based developer <a href="/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> has launched its maiden Brisbane riverfront apartment development, <a href="/new-apartments/river-house-by-fortis-kangaroo-point-44-oconnell-street-kangaroo-point">River House</a>, in the affluent inner-city suburb <a href="/new-apartments/kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Kangaroo Point</a>.

The <a href="/new-apartments/river-house-by-fortis-kangaroo-point-44-oconnell-street-kangaroo-point">$100-million development at 44 O'Connell Street</a> will comprise 14 whole-floor three-bedroom apartments across 15 levels, including a penthouse with a private rooftop terrace and pool. The development will "hover" over an 1197 sqm site, replacing a 1960s six-storey block of 13 units.

Designed by Plus Architecture, <a href="/new-apartments/river-house-by-fortis-kangaroo-point-44-oconnell-street-kangaroo-point">River House</a> pays homage to the natural beauty and earthy tones of the Kangaroo Point Cliffs. The concrete and glass facade creating an interplay between light and shadow.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109322 project_image_fid=233859]

In collaboration with Mim Design, <a href="/new-apartments/river-house-by-fortis-kangaroo-point-44-oconnell-street-kangaroo-point">River House</a> introduces the first northeast-facing aspect to Kangaroo Point in over a decade.

The spacious apartments are meticulously designed to showcase sunrise views over the Brisbane River and the Howard Smith Wharves in the distance through 45 linear metres of floor-to-ceiling glazing.

The living and dining areas and the main bedroom overlook glimpses of the iconic Story Bridge over the river, as do full-width outdoor balconies.&nbsp;

<img alt="Fortis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="badfcc24-a282-4bfe-bc6a-95ff6bdcba30" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-12%20at%202.52.53%20pm.png?VersionId=h.Iit48AENpXH2bk9JtYBMtn6qcsYDCB" />

Entertainment spaces hug the waterfront, taking full advantage of the ideal northeastern orientation, while quieter retreats reside at the apartment’s rear.

The apartments will also have operable windows and balcony doors to ensure ventilation and privacy, with slab protections on the northern facade and vertical blades for solar protection.

"The simple architectural form [of River House] comprises of horizontal eaves to provide shading on the north, east and western facades, precast panels are introduced strategically to block the unwanted sun, and vertical fins are proposed to provide shading and screening to apartment living areas," Plus Architecture's Director Danny Juric said.

As the apartments are full-floor, each unit is designed to embrace natural elements and reduce reliance on artificial energy sources.

Beyond the lavish interiors, a tiered communal recreation area with indoor and outdoor resort-style amenities, including a riverfront infinity-edge pool, leisure deck, wellness facilities with a sauna, steam room, and gym, and landscaped pockets for entertaining, is planned for the tower’s base.

<img alt="Fortis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fce0134a-1393-40a5-aa55-ed3eb916406b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-12%20at%202.52.58%20pm.png?VersionId=Be5as2bytihdA1pxEXE_film.UmP2bnm" />

Shaded gardens designed by Lat Studios, a communal lawn descending to the river’s edge, and a private pontoon aim to maximise the site’s waterfront offering.&nbsp;

Three basement levels will provide 46 car parking spaces, with access via a 50m single-lane driveway featuring a proposed "signalised system" to facilitate safe and efficient vehicle movement.

River House is just a short drive to the Pacific Motorway, an hour from the Gold Coast, whilst the proximity to the Clem7 tunnel means a 15-minute drive to the airport through just one set of traffic lights or a leisurely 80 minutes to Mooloolaba.

River House's construction is set to commence in mid-2024, with completion expected in the fourth quarter of 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=109322]

In collaboration with Mim Design and Plus Architecture, River House introduces the first northeast-facing aspect to Kangaroo Point in over a decade

Inside Fortis's debut Brisbane apartment development, River House at Kangaroo Point

Queensland-based property developer Pradella has secured its next Brisbane apartment development site.

They've paid $6.1 million for a&nbsp;1,083 sqm site in Toowong, opposite Toowong Memorial Park.&nbsp;

The corner site at <a href="/new-apartments/70-sylvan-road-toowong">70 Sylvan Road</a> is zoned for&nbsp;medium-density residential and has development potential for an eight-storey residential development.

The property is currently fully occupied by a mix of residential and office tenants on short-term leases.

There had been strong developer interest in the suburb, CBRE's&nbsp;Adelaide O’Brien and Will Carman said.

"The location has been a great success story for local and interstate developers who recognise its attraction to both the owner occupier and investor market,” O’Brien said.

“The property has the ability to generate a robust fully leased net annual income providing Pradella with secure earnings to strategise for future development.”

Toowong is located between Mount Coot-tha and the north bank of the Brisbane River and is surrounded by successful Brisbane developments by companies such as <a href="/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic</a>, BPM and <a href="/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties</a>.

There had been strong developer interest in the suburb, CBRE's Adelaide O’Brien and Will Carman said

Pradella secure their next Brisbane apartment development

Veteran Canberra and <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> developer <a href="/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a>, one of the most prolific developers on the glitter strip, has completed yet another apartment project.

They've recently welcomed residents to <a href="/buildings/essentia-surfers-paradise-18-remembrance-drive-surfers-paradise">Essentia Surfers Paradise</a>, their waterfront development at 18 Remembrance Drive, on the Nerang River facing Paradise Island.

&nbsp;

The nine-level building, designed by Morris' go-to architecture firm&nbsp;Guida Moseley and Brown, comprises&nbsp;88 one and two-bedroom apartments.

&nbsp;

Each apartment is carefully considered to maximise the expansive views and light. The natural colour palettes and quality inclusions perfectly balance aesthetics and functionality.&nbsp;

The open-plan living and dining area opens to the balcony, which is large enough to set up a table to eat or lounge around with family and friends while enjoying the CBD and Nerang River views.

The galley kitchen features a large, laminated benchtop island that doubles as a breakfast bar. A long picture window by the counter leads natural light directly to the area.

The main bedroom is softly carpeted for extra comfort underfoot and leads to a private balcony.

The bathrooms are simple and functional, featuring white fixtures, a wooden and mirrored vanity unit, and a glass-enclosed shower.

All residents can enjoy access to the amenities, including a spacious riverside recreational deck, an equipped gymnasium, an outdoor pool, and a BBQ dining area.

<a href="/buildings/essentia-surfers-paradise-18-remembrance-drive-surfers-paradise">Essentia</a> is situated just moments away from Capri Via Roma, a new hub with trendy cafes, restaurants and stylish boutiques.

<a href="/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> has a four-decade history on the Gold Coast, and has completed over 1,000 apartments on the Gold Coast.

We recently named <a href="/developers/morris-property-group">Morris</a> as <a href="/news/qld/the-top-12-developers-to-watch-out-for-on-the-gold-coast-in-2024">one of the developers to watch in the Gold Coast in 2024</a>, with a number of projects primed to hit the market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9816]

We recently named Morris as one of the developers to watch in the Gold Coast in 2024, with a number of projects primed to hit the market

Morris Property Group complete another Gold Coast apartment development

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat's recently launched apartment development, St Clair in Birtinya, is attracting both local and interstate investor interest due to&nbsp;the robust infrastructure pipeline in the area and anticipated population boom in population in the Sunshine Coast region.

Birtinya, which neighbours Bokarina and Wurtulla, will become a main attraction for the Sunshine Coast and have significant transport links as part of the government's $10 billion infrastructure pipeline.

The government's light rail project, connecting the Maroochydore CBD with Caloundra, will pass through Birtinya and the $3.2 billion, 37-kilometre rail extension between Beerwah &amp; Maroochydore.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=232439]

Further infrastructure upgrades in the region include the Sunshine Coast Airport expansion of the 5.6-hectare greenfield Maroochydore CBD, which will contribute $4.4 billion to the economy, and the $3.2 billion investment in the Sunshine Coast Health Precinct.

All of the infrastructure—the expansion of the Sunshine Coast Airport, the light and heavy rail extension project, solar farm, submarine cables, injection on the Sunshine Coast health precinct, and a new USC University campus—will create over 100,000 jobs for the region which is already booming more than some of Australia's capital cities.

The GDP of the Sunshine Coast is $24 billion a year, which surpasses Adelaide's, Canberra's, and Darwin's GDP. Sunshine Coast's economic growth is expected to reach $33 billion by 2033.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=232440]

Sunshine Coast has evolved beyond its initial small-town status, indicating significant potential for growth and an attractive investment opportunity.

The transformation into a larger city, coupled with unprecedented factors, is expected to lead to a substantial economic expansion, potentially more than doubling in size within the next 15 years.

Despite the positive outlook, challenges such as record-low unemployment and persistent population growth highlight an increasing demand for housing on the Sunshine Coast. These challenges are further intensified by a growing shortage of available dwellings, creating a critical opportunity for astute investors to capitalise on the favourable conditions anticipated.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230354]

According to Bis Oxford Economics, solid population growth, combined with supply-side challenges, is expected to result in the undersupply of dwellings on the Sunshine Coast rising from 3,900 dwellings in FY2023 to approximately 4,800 dwellings in FY2027.

Investors at St Clair, two adjoining buildings on the water, can expect to secure tenants anywhere between $600 to $680 a week for the two-bedroom apartments, which would reflect a rental yield of around four per cent. They start from $749,900.

The three-bedroom apartments, priced from $869,900, could see yields at comfortably over four per cent if they secured a tenant at the lower end of the $700 to $900 a week forecast. At closer to $900 a week, that yield&nbsp; jumps to nearly 5.5 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230765]

The $150 million development, KArchitecture-designed St Clair, on two side-by-side blocks on Waterfront Retreat, will comprise two eight-level residential towers with 200 two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

There will be a maximum of 13 apartments on each level. Some large penthouse apartments will have over 50 sqm of outdoor space, while a handful of courtyard apartments will have around 90 metres of gardens.

A 25-metre resort-style lap pool is on the ground level, featuring a five-metre shallow wading entry adjacent to a BBQ pavilion. A residents' 16-seat dining room with a private outdoor terrace complements the pool for social gatherings.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230355]

Crowning St Clair is a communal rooftop terrace enveloped by lush subtropical landscaping by Place Design Group, with an outdoor kitchen and BBQ facilities. The rooftop deck faces Bokarina Beach towards the east, while the lounge overlooks the hinterland to the west.

Additional amenities and services include an outdoor beach shower, dog wash facilities, parcel locker storage, and professional property management.

Builder developer Habitat, who are currently building The Corso in Maroochydore where they are also seeing significant interest from Sydney investors, has fast tracked construction due to strong sales.

Habitat Construction is estimating completion of St Clair in Q1 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108399]

The GDP of the Sunshine Coast is $24 billion a year, which surpasses Adelaide's, Canberra's, and Darwin's GDP

Why Birtinya's newest off the plan apartment development St Clair stacks up for investors

We've not seen any slowing down in demand, and with supply levels at significant lows due to the current construction issues, the Gold Coast market has continued to outperform the rest of the country

The top 12 developers to watch out for on the Gold Coast in 2024

The Gold Coast City Council has approved plans for a $300 million 'Integrated Surf Park Village' at The Club at Parkwood Village.

The Parkwood Village Golf and Surf Resort introduces a four-hectare dual-zone Endless Wave surfing lagoon as the centrepiece—the city's first wave park.&nbsp;

Dubbed Endless Surf Wave Lagoon, the wave pool will offer customisable wave configurations to cater to different surfer preferences and abilities.

The project will be categorised into six precincts spread across sixteen new and modified main buildings, which consist of eight residential apartments and short-term accommodation buildings, 12 no. resort villas, a pavilion and brewhouse, retail and commercial tenancies, a 120-person childcare centre, a maintenance building, a golf pro shop and a wedding chapel.&nbsp;

Designed by BDA Architecture, the vision for the resort is to create a defined architectural character that reflects the Gold Coast 'Palm Springs' architectural language and contemporary commercial architecture.

“The Residential &amp; Serviced Apartments, Central, Pavilion &amp; Brewhouse, Resort Villas, Commercial Buildings, and its podium base have been considered as a three-dimensional form in the urban context of the Parkwood Precinct,” BDA said in their design brief.

“The simple curved podium base with its horizontal lines and openness allows cascading landscapes to spill over the podium edge, softening its appearance whilst allowing for flooding.

“The curved plan form of the development is aligned and reflects the site’s shape and existing spatial geometry of the site context.”

<img alt="Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4a52e0eb-9746-490e-9d46-cfc53bee1ff1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-06%20at%201.50.16%20pm.png?VersionId=xYV6Jp1Uwf79tdMwYjqupC75KGUxtH0." />

Anticipated as a new attraction for locals and tourists, the large 'endless surf' wave pool will sit alongside an 18-hole golf course on site.

The $10 million transformation of the Parkwood Golf Course is a pivotal aspect of the development, promising a PGA tour-level golf course to enhance the overall golfer experience within a scenic landscape.

A mini-golf, ten-pin bowling, and Top Golf Swing Suites add more entertainment options to the development, while diverse dining options, from casual dining to beach club and beachfront fine dining, complete the hospitality precinct at Parkwood Village. A European-style beach club is on the beach's northern end, and a family beach precinct is at the southern end.&nbsp;

The resort will also feature a mix of hotel accommodations private residences, and host a retirement community in collaboration with Living Choice.

<img alt="Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48a99407-c1f7-4f15-8bdb-cc505b764e60" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-06%20at%201.50.23%20pm.png?VersionId=H7RK9SsW6iL3EpsFkwrzemcsl_zwzXNE" />

The Surf HQ building, positioned between the apartment buildings and located centrally fronting the Endless Surf Wave Lagoon, is a focal point associated with the wave pool. It will house ancillary retail, café spaces, and office areas primarily for wave pool staff.

A new mixed-use precinct will also extend existing commercial tenancies at The Club at Parkwood Village and introduce new retail and commercial spaces surrounding the surf lagoon.&nbsp;

Spearheaded by the Gold Coast Titans, the health, sports, and recreation precinct will include a high-performance recovery centre, altitude training facilities, and state-of-the-art medical spaces accessible to the public.

Adding an Active Hub reinforces Parkwood Village as a wellness hub, offering world-class facilities for recovery, training, medical services, and overall health and well-being.

Designed by BDA Architecture, the vision for the resort is to create a defined architectural character that reflects the Gold Coast 'Palm Springs' architectural language and contemporary commercial architecture

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