National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

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The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

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Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

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Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

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Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

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Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

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One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

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There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

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The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

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Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

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Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

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Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

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?

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Hawthorn East, located in Melbourne&rsquo;s east, has been one of the city&rsquo;s premier suburbs for generations.

With stately homes lining its leafy streets, independent boutiques and prestigious schools, the suburb offers the fundamentals of a grand, established neighbourhood.

Delivered by Dahua Group, Hawthorn Park delivers the best of Hawthorn East at its doorstep thanks to its prime location on Camberwell Road.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171605]

The sophisticated mid-rise features 368 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, designed by award-winning architects Rothelowman.

Arriving at the development, residents will be greeted by textured concrete bands that evoke the idea of stone terraces on a hillside.

&ldquo;The design of the internal architectural fa&ccedil;ades and the lush valley landscape was inspired by the stepped landforms of rice paddy fields and the stone terraces of Machu Picchu&rdquo;, said lead architect Kim Lowman.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171606]

A series of public piazzas and retail spaces will activate the area along Camberwell Road, providing a local gathering spot for residents.

Exclusive residents&rsquo; amenities are also on offer, such as a spectacular sky pool, gym, splash pool and rooftop grill.

Other private spaces include a residents&rsquo; garden, multi-function space, lounge and dining, sky walk, rooftop lawn and sky lounge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171604]

&ldquo;Located on the top level, the Hawthorn Park private dining room is the perfect setting for residents to host cocktail parties and exclusive dinners&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Each apartment also comes with access to a wellness centre, with a state-of-the-art gym, yoga studio, massage rooms and more.

The garden spaces between the buildings of Hawthorn Park have been designed as places of true relaxation by landscape architect Jack Merlo.

&ldquo;My design for Hawthorn Park has been carefully considered to encourage quiet recreation and reflective moments in traditional garden areas, with a more active lifestyle catered for on the rooftop terraces&rdquo;, he said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171608]

The development boasts 2,000sqm of landscaping that features indigenous and exotic plant species, hardy and flowering trees and contrasting foliage.

Expansive central gardens have been designed as a parkland escape in the urban setting, where residents can enjoy a central lawn, walkway, garden pavilion and hammock lounge.

Interiors continue the theme of the contoured exterior and lush landscaping to provide a unified aesthetic experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171610]

The development includes high-quality finishes, intelligent floorplans, private park vistas and a wide range of residential options.

Completed last year by Hickory, residents can move in now to this one-of-a-kind property.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3730]

Delivered by Dahua Group, Hawthorn Park delivers the best of Hawthorn East at its doorstep thanks to its prime location on Camberwell Road

max.kwok_55688

Blue chip location and ever-green style: Take a tour through the Hawthorn Park master plan 

ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods has recently opened a new sales office for its 64-hectare Mason Quarter masterplanned community in Wollert, following a surge in demand for property in Melbourne’s north.

Located within the fast-growing City of Whittlesea, Mason Quarter will accommodate over 800 dwellings and is located just 25 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD.

According to Cedar Woods’ chief operating officer, Patrick Archer, land lots continue to sell out soon after each release.

<a href="/developments/wollert-vic-3750"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1067" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cw_masonsq_078_copy.jpeg" width="1600" /></a>

“Land in Melbourne’s growth corridors is increasingly sought after and buyers are in a rush to get into this strong market.”

The new sales office will help facilitate sales and showcase the unique masterplan design that prioritises access to green space.

The masterplan has been designed to showcase the native vegetation on-site with a 7.9-hectare conservation reserve and over 30 distributed tree reserves with retained mature river red gums.

“We’ve developed a clear vision for Mason Quarter, centred around connection to nature and prioritising outdoor space.”

"There is a great deal of amenity in the area and with a site of this size we will be able to establish a brand-new community to enjoy it," says Archer.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99962 project_image_fid=160808]

Located on Craigieburn Road in Wollert, Mason Quarter is designed around new and existing amenity.

The development includes plans for two schools, a community facility and is located within walking distance to the future Wollert town centre.

The project is also in close proximity to the Hume Freeway, Metropolitan Ring Road, hospitals, shopping centres and public transport.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=99962 project_image_fid=160810]

Covid safety measures are in place at the new sales office with inquiring purchasers able to book a private appointment with a sales agent.

Mason Quarter will be delivered over the next eight years with large 368sqm land lots now selling from $397,500, subject to availability.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=99962]

According to Cedar Woods’ chief operating officer, Patrick Archer, land lots continue to sell out soon after each release

Land sales soar in Melbourne’s north as buyers “rush” into “strong market”

Residents at FOCUS, a vibrant new inner-city community in the heart of Melbourne&rsquo;s celebrated Arts precinct, get access to an extensive array of amenities all within their Southbank building.

Due to complete later this year, the Central Equity-developed FOCUS is set&nbsp;to integrate contemporary apartments with easily accessible facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3260 project_image_fid=62349]

Everything from an impressive and secure entry foyer with a furnished visitor waiting area to professional concierge teams on-site 24/7 will be&nbsp;available to residents.

Residents can plan a movie night at the luxe 17-seat theatre, or enjoy the company of the FOCUS community in the landscaped outdoor barbecue and dining area, which is accessed off an open dining and lounge space.

Resident facilities also include a glass-roofed, indoor heated lap pool, state-of-the-art gym, and adjoining sauna.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3260 project_image_fid=62344]

The apartments, which are being built by Multiplex, are designed by Doig Architecture and each feature 2.7m-high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3260 project_image_fid=62343]

The&nbsp;Ci​ty Rd&nbsp;location puts FOCUS residents in the heart of Southbank, with easy access to the iconic arts precinct and new parkland on Southbank Bou​levard.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Within 100 metre walk from the front door of FOCUS is an IGA and 7-Eleven. Two streets over toward the river is&nbsp;Sout​h​b​ank Boulevard, lined with a number of restaurants and cafe&#39;s.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=3260]

Residents at FOCUS get access to substantial amenities at their Southbank address

The range of private and local amenities residents get at FOCUS, Southbank apartments

Ivanhoe East is a highly sought-after pocket of Melbourne, thanks to the picturesque streets of the north-eastern suburb.

The historic streetscape blends European heritage and modern style, combining community, culture and convenience.

East Ivanhoe Village is awash with charm, a pocket of energy in the heart of the neighbourhood thanks to its shopfronts, caf&eacute;s and independent boutiques.

Melburnians seeking to enter this prestigious market need not look further than JWLand&#39;s development&nbsp;The Grounds, situated on The Boulevard.

The Grounds is an exclusive collection of three apartment buildings, Wilfred, Wamba and the Boulevard, and a limited number of townhomes at Oak Terraces.

Featuring 116 residences in two, three and four-bedroom configurations, the development is primely positioned to take advantage of the range of offerings in Ivanhoe East.

Urban takes a look at six things we love about this suburb.

1. Neighbourhood amenities

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168937]

From the bustling main streets to tranquil green spaces, The Grounds residents can offer all that Ivanhoe East has to offer.

&ldquo;At your doorstep, healthy outdoor spaces invite exploring, exercise and relaxing close to nature&rdquo;, JWLand&#39;s Project Marketing Manager Nick Babic says.

Nearby, Ivanhoe Park provides the ideal setting for children&rsquo;s play and weekend sports, while Ivanhoe Golf Club and Chelsworth Park are also around the corner.

Other recreational amenities that residents can enjoy include Ivanhoe Aquatic Centre, Olympic Leisure Banyule or Macleod Recreation and Fitness Centre

2. Cultural hub

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=171476]

Forming Melbourne&rsquo;s greenest precinct, rolling lawns, parkland and native reserves bring a community together.

The area&rsquo;s treasured heritage has fuelled its modern-day appreciation of arts and culture,&nbsp;previously known as a hub for renowned Australian landscape artists.

The suburb is&nbsp;now home to the iconic Heide Museum of Modern Art, the Courthouse Museum and many independent galleries that dot the precinct.

3. Green spaces at The Grounds

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168936]

Within and around The Grounds, a profusion of native and exotic plantings are designed to surround the architecture with calming greenery.

Clusters of native grasses and shrubbery around the base of the buildings give the structures an appearance of floating within the natural parkland setting.

An expansive lawn encourages guests to gather and connect outdoors, while the central courtyard features inbuilt seating and space to bask in the sunshine.

4. Self-contained neighbourhood

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168933]

&ldquo;Ivanhoe East offers an idyllic lifestyle balance in a self-contained neighbourhood, where you&rsquo;ll walk to everything you need&rdquo;, Babic added.

The neighbourhood features a range of local caf&eacute;s to nurture the community and a diversity of eateries and fresh food providers a few minutes&rsquo; walk&nbsp;away.

Major retail hubs at Ivanhoe Shopping Centre and Heidelberg Central offer a range of retail and dining offerings.

5. Family-friendly development

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168932]

The affluent suburb places community at its centre, with close to half its residents established and older couples and families.

The development is largely targeted towards maturing couples and semi-retirees, mostly local who are keen to stay in the area.

&ldquo;I think people buy in because it will be a community, it won&rsquo;t be a transient place with 50 for-lease signs up all the time,&rdquo; sales agent Natasha Johnson said.

&ldquo;That&rsquo;s the main attraction &ndash; there&rsquo;ll be no investors here&rdquo;, Johnson added.

The median house price recorded in Ivanhoe East by the REIV for the September 2021 quarter was $2.18 million for homes.

This is significantly higher than the starting price for three-bedroom townhomes at The Grounds, which begin from $1.89 million.

6. Proximity to the CBD

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168928]

Just 9 kilometres north-east of the CBD, Ivanhoe East delivers a sophisticated, relaxed lifestyle surrounded by established parkland.

Using a network of public transport or the Eastern Freeway, making it into the city is stress-free.

The Boulevard is central to a cluster of Victoria&rsquo;s most prestigious state and independent schools including Marcellin College, Ivanhoe East Primary School, Ivanhoe Grammar and Ivanhoe Girls Grammar.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5806]

East Ivanhoe Village is awash with charm, a pocket of energy in the heart of the neighbourhood thanks to its shopfronts, cafés and independent boutiques

Culture and convenience at Ivanhoe East: Six things we love about the north-east Melbourne suburb

The latest REIV data calculated there was far less price escalation in the private treaty market than the red hot auction market.

Apartments sold at auctions during 2021 were up 9.6% to a $772,500 median price across Victoria.

But private treaty sale prices went up just 1% to $606,000, according to data from Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s December quarter report.

The median apartment price in regional Victoria saw 19.6 per cent annual price growth in 2021.

It took the median apartment price to $395,950.

The median house price in regional Victoria has was up 27 per cent reaching a record breaking $565,000 over the year.

“The data reflects the enduring attraction of regional Victoria as a lifestyle choice following two years of COVID-19 restrictions," REIV President Adam Docking said.

Metropolitan Melbourne unit prices jumped 7.1% to $680,000, while houses across the city rose 18.9% to $1,125,000.

The data shows apartments in outer Melbourne, achieved a $615,000 median price with an annual increase of 11.3 per cent.

Middle Melbourne apartments remain the pricier at $765,000 up 8.5% last year.

Apartments in inner Melbourne have experienced 4.8% price growth to a median price of $655,000.

Docking said he expects the market will soon begin to stabilise as some of the listing volume issues are addressed and buyers have more offerings.

But he suggested the impact, if any, of the Omicron surge on the real estate market is yet to be fully understood.

“Major factors influencing the residential real estate market continue to be low interest rates, lifestyle choices as more people work from home and pent-up demand after the series of lockdowns over 2020 and 2021.”


 

The REIV data suggested there was less price escalation in the private treaty market than the red hot auction market

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Private treaty apartment market cheaper than redhot Victorian auction market: REIV

Privately owned property group, Riverlee, has appointed Icon Construction to deliver the $500 million Seafarers development featuring residential, hotel and hospitality, in what is set to be the largest private construction project in Melbourne since the pandemic.

The 18-storey development comprises 123 luxury hotel-branded residences and 277 guest rooms as part of Australia&rsquo;s first 1 Hotel &amp; Homes from SH Hotels &amp; Resorts.

Revitalising the historic Goods Shed No.5, Seafarers is a flagship project within the Northbank precinct, located between the CBD and Docklands.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173912]

The project&rsquo;s multi-sector impact extends beyond construction and shows post-pandemic confidence in the residential, tourism and recreation markets.

The Seafarers build is valued at a nominal $275 million and is forecast to provide a total of 1,023 full-time equivalent construction-related jobs, with approximately 680 jobs generated upon completion.

The builder appointment of Icon comes as Seafarers records $20 million in sales and reservations since lockdown ended in Victoria last October.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173921]

Riverlee&rsquo;s development director, David Lee, says that the partnership with Icon marks a significant milestone for the next wave of Northbank as a destination in Melbourne.

&ldquo;Icon shares our vision for the precinct &ndash; for it to be a high-quality, sustainable and an outstanding place to live and visit.

He also made note of the positive uptake in sales since restrictions lifted in Victoria, showing the confidence in the owner-occupier apartment market and the shift to new lifestyle opportunities in a post-pandemic landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173942]

&ldquo;Construction of many residential projects in the city have been put on hold because of low sales during the pandemic, but we are proud to be progressing and are confident in our offering of a unique and differentiated residential product.&rdquo;

Construction at Seafarers will commence in early 2022 with completion slated for 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=27728]

The Seafarers build is valued at a nominal $275 million and is forecast to provide a total of 1,023 full-time equivalent construction-related jobs, with approximately 680 jobs generated upon completion.



Riverlee appoints Icon Construction to deliver $500 million Seafarers development

Residents within what will be Australia&rsquo;s tallest skyscraper, STH BNK By Beulah, will breathe in some of the freshest, healthiest and cleanest air in any Australian residential skyscraper, thanks to a bespoke centralised ventilation system that places an emphasis on health and wellbeing.

Designed primarily to optimise sleep quality and productivity, the system developed together with world-leading engineers ARUP, will also protect against noxious fumes, bushfire smoke, disease transmission and moisture issues by removing contaminants from the outside air.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=27929]

Fresh air is directly ducted to every STH BNK By Beulah apartment, while a full heat exchanger system recovers energy from the exhaust air stream to minimise energy consumption.

By constantly supplying fresh air and exhausting stale air, the oxygen content in each apartment is increased, resulting in up to 10 times less CO2 compared to apartments and houses where stale air is recirculated.

Beulah Managing Director Jiaheng Chen said with Beulah FreshAir&trade;, residents will feel like they&rsquo;re in the world&rsquo;s cleanest destination, constantly breathing the freshest unpolluted air at the most comfortable temperature &mdash; regardless of the conditions outside.

&ldquo;There&rsquo;s been a massive shift towards improving the ventilation and quality of air in buildings, mostly off the back of air-borne diseases, but Australians have also had to deal with unsafe air quality during our recent bushfire seasons,&quot; Chen said.

<a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank"><img alt="" height="1697" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sth_bnk_by_beulah_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

&ldquo;Although Australia ranks incredibly well on a global scale in terms of air pollution, the Beulah FreshAir&trade; ventilation system will play a pivotal role in improving the health of residents in terms of sleep, productivity and overall well-being. If the past two years have taught us anything, it&rsquo;s that we are spending more time at home than ever before.&rdquo;

One of the towers in STH BNK By Beulah will become Australia&rsquo;s tallest building.&nbsp;There will be two towers at the&nbsp;City Road&nbsp;address, one rising 102 storeys, some&nbsp;366 metres in to the sky. There will be around 449 apartments across the two towers, as well as a hotel, commercial, and retail space.

The $2.7 billion mixed-use development, will also have its own Private Auto Club,&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s first-of-its-kind Private Auto Club.

The STH BNK Auto Club will give residents the opportunity to use the fleet of luxury vehicles,&nbsp;from&nbsp;BMWs and Teslas to Porches and Range Rovers.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8804]

A new bespoke centralised ventilation system that places emphasis on health and wellbeing will feature in STH BNK by Beulah apartments, designed primarily to optimise sleep quality and productivity.

STH BNK by Beulah to provide the cleanest air in any Australian residential skyscraper

The Melbourne developer Golden Age Group is pushing ahead with its 21-storey tower in the Queen Victoria Market precinct.

Golden Age, led by founder and managing director Jeff Xu, has just received the green light to develop the Bates Smart-designed project&nbsp;at 432-450 Queen Street.

Some 143 apartments will be spread across the tower, which will also home&nbsp;two levels of retail, a roof terrace on level five,&nbsp;and extensively&nbsp;residential amenity.

Respecting the site&rsquo;s historical context, the approved plans will see the existing Queen Victoria building on the site carefully restored and integrated into the development.

<a href="/new-apartments/450-queen-street-450-queen-street-melbourne-vic-3000">To track this development and be notified when it&#39;s for sale, enquire here.</a>

The project, known as 450 Queen Street, was endorsed by the City of Melbourne in June last year, with Pla​nni​ng Minister Richa​rd Wynne recently giving the nod of approval. Bates Smart Director Julian Anderson said the project has been designed with the residents, visitors and market community in mind by providing engaging spaces to live, work an​​d play.

<a href="/new-apartments/450-queen-street-450-queen-street-melbourne-vic-3000"><img alt="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/450_queen_main.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

&ldquo;We have taken great care in designing an enduring and well-crafted addition to this neighbourhood, respecting the site&rsquo;s historical context while being mindful that this development will have a role in shaping the future character of an evolving and diverse urban fabric.&rdquo;

Carefully selected masonry will be applied to podium forms to complement the existing Queen Victoria building, while the retail ground plane will incorporate vitrine windows as a contemporary interpretation of shopfronts around the market precinct.

A triple-height north-facing atrium will complement Munro Square, providing natural light and activity to the lower and upper ground retail tenancies.

<a href="/new-apartments/450-queen-street-450-queen-street-melbourne-vic-3000">To track this development and be notified when it&#39;s for sale, enquire here.</a>

Jeff Xu said receiving approval was a fantastic start to 2022.

&ldquo;Receiving approval is a reflection of the level of confidence the State Government has in us as co-developers of this city,&quot; Xu said.

&quot;The project is located in a significant area of the Queen Victoria Market precinct and we&rsquo;re excited to develop a project that will further contribute to this ever-evolving pocket of the city.&rdquo;

Around 10 per cent of the residences will also be offered as affordable housing as a means of ensuring an equitable provision of housing is made available.

Some 143 apartments will be spread across the tower, which will also home two levels of retail, a roof terrace on level five, and extensively residential amenity

Golden Age receives green light for Queen Victoria Market tower on Melbourne's Queen Street

Pace of Blackburn is the latest development by Pace Development Group, offering a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments within one of Melbourne&rsquo;s premier suburbs.

The corner site fronting Whitehorse Road and Railway Road puts residents in the heart of Blackburn, within walking distance to a number of local amenities as well as extensive transport links to connecting residents to the city.

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Pace of Blackburn is just&nbsp;25 minutes to the CBD, with bus routes 271 and 279 running near the development and the Blackburn train station just a 10-minute walk.

The community is home to one of Melbourne&rsquo;s largest pockets of greenery: Blackburn Lake Sanctuary, as well as Blackburn Medical Clinic and Box Hill Hospital.

Investors are likely to see a decent uptake from students, with the development located just seven kilometres from Deakin University - as well as there being three other universities within an 11 kilometre radius.

Caf&eacute;s, restaurants and take-away favourites are sprinkled all around Pace of Blackburn with an emphasis on great coffee and family favourites.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7211 project_image_fid=39986]

Lily Loves George serves up unique and nutritious breakfasts along with an impressive Reuben and super salads for lunch. For the sleepyheads, there&rsquo;s all-day breakfast at Black Alchemy whilst the Food Republic puts modern European fusion to work.

Shopping in the area ranges from the mega-mart scale of Costco in nearby Ringwood, down to local boutiques and regular markets. Forest Hill Chase has mainstream and speciality stores as well as Hoyts Cinemas, bowling, events, a play zone and pop-up shops.

In neighbouring Box Hill, you&rsquo;ll find a range of Asian grocery stores and dining options for traditional Hot Pot and Yum Cha.&nbsp;

Residents will also have access to multiple retail spaces on the ground level of the precinct, with&nbsp;prominent supermarket chain Foodworks featuring as the flagship tenant.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7211]

Pace of Blackburn is just 25 minutes to the CBD, with bus routes 271 and 279 running near the development and the Blackburn train station just a 10-minute walk.



What you can walk to as a resident at Pace of Blackburn

The design-focused Melbourne developer, Neometro, has seen rapid success at Nine Wilson Ave, their final apartment project in Brunswick&#39;s Jewell Station Village,&nbsp;a multi-stage development that began back in 2016.

Over 35 per cent of the 73 apartments on offer have been snapped up over the traditionally quiet Christmas holiday period.

Neometro&#39;s head of sales&nbsp;Andrew Steele&nbsp;said sales were pretty much instant.

&ldquo;There were numerous buyers waiting for Neometro&rsquo;s next apartment offering,&rdquo; Andrew said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93019 project_image_fid=183966]

The quick fire sales success came from&nbsp;private appointments with clients, giving people the chance to take time and go through all of the details in a relaxed setting.

&ldquo;Due to the caution around rising COVID numbers&nbsp; and the traditional lull in sales over the Christmas break, we weren&rsquo;t anticipating such an active market over this period.&rdquo;

Andrew says there&#39;s been a diverse mix of buyers. Made up of predominantly&nbsp;locals who wanted to live near family,&nbsp;there&#39;s been enquiry from first home buyers, both singles and couples, young professionals looking for more space, and a considerable number of downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93019 project_image_fid=183949]

&ldquo;Over 95 per cent of buyers so far have been owner occupiers, which is typical for a <a href="https://neometro.com.au/">Neometro</a> project,&rdquo; Andrew added.

&quot;What has been great to see&nbsp;is the amount of referrals we&#39;ve had from people who are living in the other Neometro buildings, particularly&nbsp;in Jewell Station Village.

&quot;Those who know the quality of the build and design, and what it&#39;s like to live in a <a href="https://neometro.com.au/">Neometro</a> apartment,&nbsp;have strongly encouraged their friends or family to have a look at Neometro&rsquo;s latest offering.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93019 project_image_fid=183953]

Another anticipated outcome was buyers coming from the architect and design world, who, like many, appreciate the sustainability and design of a striking building.

&quot;There have been several architects and interior designers buy in the project, and many with family or friends who work within the design industry. They know as well as anyone that Neometro produces quality, well considered design.&rdquo;

Andrew also noted that he&rsquo;s nearly sold out all of the loft apartments that were on offer at Nine Wilson Ave.

The signature lofts, a unique Neometro&nbsp;concept which&nbsp;<a href="https://openjournal.com.au/high-density-homes-luxe-building-circa-1998/">goes back to 1998 when they created Luxe on St Kilda&#39;s Inkerman Street</a>, are a warm shell and a flexible space, with ceiling heights up to 3.8m that come in a range of sizes allowing maximum flexibility to buyers.

&quot;They&#39;ve mainly been snapped up by creative types for residential purposes,&quot; Steele advised, adding that with the multi-functional&nbsp;space, buyers can be a bit more creative with their furniture selection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93019 project_image_fid=183968]

Designed by Neometro&rsquo;s long standing collaborators, MAArchitects, and local&nbsp;landscape designers Mud Office, Nine Wilson Ave will comprise a range of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as the lofts.

Each of the Nine Wilson Ave apartments will have an average 7.5 star NatHERS energy rating, along with a range of other sustainability features such as solar panels, recycled water systems, energy efficient appliances and EV car charging capabilities.

Tucked away behind Sydney Road, Jewell Station Village is a key part of the local council&rsquo;s plan to build on the area&rsquo;s unique character, revitalise the heritage precinct, and better integrate transportation and amenities.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=93019]

Over 35 per cent of the 73 apartments on offer have been snapped up over the traditionally quiet Christmas holiday period

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