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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

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]

Joel Robinson

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

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

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

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?

The soon-to-be-completed mixed-use Box Hill development, Panorama, will feature two dedicated office levels from UCommune,&nbsp;Asia&rsquo;s largest co-working operator and NASDAQ listed company.

It will be UCommune&#39;s first move in to Australia.

Panorama, the 31-level building developed by&nbsp;Hexa Group, will have 396 apartments and&nbsp;the Hexa Space-UCommune, which will follow the pattern of UCommune&#39;s&nbsp;intelligent agile office ecosystem that provides members with flexible and cost-efficient office space solutions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5131 project_image_fid=173645]

They signed a five-year deal, which will see&nbsp;UCommune provide a broad range of services including the design, operation, management, and marketing of the coworking space.

Panorama, designed by the&nbsp;award-winning design and architecture studio, Peddle Thorp, will also have offices,&nbsp;retail spaces, and eateries on the ground floor.

It is expected to complete construction in December.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5131 project_image_fid=173647]

Residents will have access to four&nbsp;rooftop terraces with gardens on levels six, eight, 28 and 29. The gym will also sit on level 28.

Entry to the building is through a modern lobby with&nbsp;light stone and ornate gold chandeliers. It leads to an expansive lounge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5131 project_image_fid=173651]

All apartments feature floor-to-ceiling windows and&nbsp;generously-sized balconies.

Located in the heart of Box Hill&nbsp;as the gateway tower to the suburb, Panorama residents&nbsp;will be within arms reach of a number of&nbsp;restaurants and civic facilities, including&nbsp;Box Hill Central.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5131]

Panorama, designed by the award-winning design and architecture studio, Peddle Thorp, will also have offices, retail spaces, and eateries on the ground floor

Hexa to offer two-level co-working space in mixed-use Box Hill apartment development, Panorama

The Melbourne developer,&nbsp;Pitard,&nbsp;is offering a rare opportunity to buy a new apartment in the heart of the inner south east Melbourne&nbsp;suburb of Elsternwick, which ideal location enjoys&nbsp;bay views.

The project, dubbed&nbsp;EVA,&nbsp;Elsternwick Village Apartments, has the joint backing of the real estate investment trust giant Dexus, who manage a portfolio of over&nbsp;$30 billion&nbsp;and funding partner Solido, who went in 50/50 as the senior&nbsp;consulting financing facility for the development.

Comprising 100 apartments set for completion in early 2023 by the builder and developer, EVA puts residents in the heart of&nbsp;the&nbsp;&nbsp;lifestyle-centric Elsternwick Village from its&nbsp;Glen Huntly&nbsp;Road location.

There&#39;s been a conscious effort to give residents convenience, with retail located at the foot of the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93073 project_image_fid=157108]

Residents will also have access to EVA&#39;s onsite amenity, including a private gym and a number of outdoor spaces.

The apartments have been designed by Via Architects&nbsp;to be as open plan as possible, letting in as much light through extensive windows, maximised by high ceilings.

Most apartments are centred around the kitchen&#39;s island bench. The kitchen&#39;s have been designed in the popular Hamptons-style, complete with engineered stone benchtops and&nbsp;fitted with&nbsp;European&nbsp;ILVE appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93073 project_image_fid=157116]

Each apartment features a balcony or an outdoor terrace.

Prices start from $599,000 for the one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments with a parking space. Two-bedders start from $849,000 and&nbsp;three-bedroom, two-bathroom with two parking spaces start from $1,135,000

The location is one of the main drivers of enquiry so far. Elsternwick, famed for its cafe culture and bar scene, is a short trip in to the Melbourne CBD from Elsternwick Station, just a few hundred metres from EVA.

With construction underway by&nbsp;Pitard, access for&nbsp;display viewings are available via appointments.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=93073]

&nbsp;

The location is one of the main drivers of enquiry so far. Elsternwick, famed for its cafe culture and bar scene, is a short trip in to the Melbourne CBD from Elsternwick Station, just a few hundred metres from EVA.

Why funders have confidence in Pitard's Eva Elsternwick mixed-use apartment development

The Sydney-based developer, Sun Property Group, are breaking in to the Melbourne apartment market, and they&#39;re starting in one of the Victorian capital&#39;s most blue chip suburbs.

SPG has just launched Euroka, a boutique collection of apartments in the heart of Toorak.

Euroka, at 5 Brookville Road, is inspired by Melbourne&rsquo;s iconic Roy Grounds House &ndash; once home to one of Victoria&rsquo;s most influential modern architects.

The renowned architect and design firm, Carr Design, has created the 10 luxury apartments, which includes two ultra-luxury penthouses. Euroka will feature&nbsp;a distinctive geometric fa&ccedil;ade, taking cues from the rich texture of local neo-brutalist architecture. &nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185211]

The theme of&nbsp;Euroka&nbsp;is &lsquo;welcome to the light&rsquo;, with the developer given permission from the Aboriginal Council, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation, to use the name.

Sun Property General Manager, Cameron Johnson, said there&#39;s a big difference in what can be developed in Sydney and Melbourne.

&quot;In Sydney&#39;s it all about trying to create apartments that will get glimpses of the harbour, or views of the city,&quot; Johnson says.&nbsp;

&quot;In Melbourne, those opportunities aren&#39;t quite there, the topography is very different, Melbourne is very flat.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185217]

&quot;So you have to find different opportunities, in design, craftsmanship, size, quality etc. You need to be able to underpin the same level of distinguishment than what you can achieve in Sydney simply by having higher apartments with views.&quot;

The sleek low-rise apartments &ndash; set over three levels &ndash; feature linear shapes, beautiful glazing and what appears to be almost &lsquo;floating&rsquo; concrete, softened by landscaping.

The site, located at 3-5 Brookville Road is set back from the road and will be nestled behind landscaped gardens. Deep sculptural planters will provide privacy to residents, while its dramatic entry will include a 16m reflection pond.

Natural light has been a strong theme in how&nbsp;the apartments have been arranged. Each apartment has been created to be like its own private gallery, with oversized floorplans extending outdoors to large terraces or private courtyards.

The apartments at Euroka&nbsp;are generously sized, with a three-bedroom floorplan measuring around 160sqm. The project will have two penthouses, each with an expansive floor plan measuring 260 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185218]

Construction on&nbsp;Euroka&nbsp;is due to commence in February, with a completion expected by June 2023. &nbsp;

Sun Property has been developing primarily in Sydney&#39;s affluent Lower North Shore area, with projects in Neutral Bay, Mosman&nbsp;and Willoughby recently.

&ldquo;It is the right time for us to expand what we offer to our customers into a different city &ndash; there are great schools, excellent services and wonderful surroundings in Melbourne&rsquo;s south-eastern suburbs,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;What influences our design is the customer &ndash; we really drive towards trying to understand what it is they are looking for and how they want to exist in their home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109759 project_image_fid=185214]

&ldquo;We present a design and an idea of what it can be &ndash; but what we are willing to do is to take that extra step and work with the customer very collaboratively to deliver a home that meets what they want and need.&rdquo;

Sun also has another site in Toorak, closer to Hawksburn Village at&nbsp;226-228 williams road Toorak. The 16 apartments, a mix of two and three-beds, will be more atune to trying to find a younger customer, as well as some downsizers, Johnson says.

They are looking to further pad out their Melbourne pipeline in the next six months.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=109759]

Euroka, at 5 Brookville Road, is inspired by Melbourne’s iconic Roy Grounds House – once home to one of Victoria’s most influential modern architects

Sun Property Group make first move in to Melbourne with luxury Toorak apartment development, Euroka

A 78 hectare former horse stud within the Officer South Employment PSP has just hit the market with $60 million plus price expectations.

It borders the Clyde North and Officer growth precincts, set opposite Mirvac’s $1.5 billion Smiths Lane project which is set to deliver a new town centre along with 3,600 homes.
 
"Some of Australia’s most noteworthy developers are undertaking major master planned communities within the area, including Mirvac, Stockland, Frasers, Dahua, Dennis Family and Satterley," Julian Heatherich, director, CBD and Metropolitan Sales at Savills Australia noted.

“Once a predominately farming area, Cardinia & Casey is being transformed by major population growth, driven by young families looking to secure property in what is regarded as one of Victoria’s best growth locations.

“Demand has seen record price growth in Lot sales in Officer and the surrounding growth areas of Clyde, Cranbourne and Pakenham” he said.

Colin Tarlamis, Director, Industrial & Logistics of Savills Australia said the employment site is well-serviced by transport linkages with easy access from the site to the Princes Freeway.
 
“With an on and off ramp currently under construction for the South Officer Road and Princes Freeway intersection, the site will enjoy easy connectivity to Melbourne’s arterial road network”.
 
Offers close December 3.
 
Benson Zhou, director, CBD and Metropolitan Sales of Savills Australia noted the current median house value in Officer is $709,960, representing a leap of 62% in five years.

“The Officer, Clyde and Clyde North precincts are set for some of Melbourne’s most aggressive growth in population and development in the coming 20 years with an increase of 96,000 people and 48,000 new homes."

The Officer South Employment precinct is located 45km southeast of Melbourne’s central business district within the municipality of Cardinia. The precinct covers about 1069 hectares, bound by Cardinia Creek to the west, the Princes Freeway to the north, Lower Gum Scrub Creek to the east and the Urban Growth Boundary to the south.

The Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) is leading the preparation of a structure plan for the Officer South Employment Precinct, working in partnership with Cardinia Shire Council, State government agencies and service authorities to help determine the mix of large and heavy, light industry, mixed use, activity centre and residential.

Its mixed use precincts are anticipated to see 4-6 storeys, adjacent to areas of high amenity with after hours recreational spaces.

The housing diversity is set to include smaller town houses and apartments and affordable housing opportunities, with less car reliance in a 20-minute neighbourhood.

After a draft plan has consensus with government agencies, the plan will be publicly exhibited for comment.

The property at 425 Officer South Road, Officer South is located in a high residential growth area

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Developers offered $60 million plus employment precinct site  at Officer South

Crown Group has expanded its footprint out of Sydney, announcing&nbsp;Artis at Southbank as their first ever development outside of Sydney.

They&#39;ve had their go-to Sydney architect, Koichi Takada, design the 16-level, 152-apartment tower, his first in Melbourne.

Takada, who created Crown Group&#39;s award-winning Mastery by Crown Group and Waterfall by Crown Group, was inspired&nbsp;by two nearby iconic landmarks - the flowing spine of the Arts Centre, and the new NGV Contemporary art and design gallery, the latter forming part of the $200 million redevelopment of the precinct.

Koichi Takada said the&nbsp;project&rsquo;s name is a nod to the concept of &lsquo;art in motion&rsquo; which is reflected in the design of the fluid ribbon-motion fa&ccedil;ade of the two elliptical-shaped buildings.

<a href="/new-apartments/175-187-sturt-street-southbank">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

&quot;Every aspect of the interior will also reflect the bohemian art culture of Southbank,&quot; Takada added.

<img alt="" height="674" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/artis_southbank_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Crown Group Chairman and Group CEO, Iwan Sunito, said the decision to branch out to Melbourne made sense, given the amount of interest from&nbsp;Melburnians in their Sydney projects.

&quot;We&rsquo;re excited to finally bring our iconic design and luxury resort-style amenity to the Victorian capital,&quot; Sunito said.

&quot;Melbourne is a vibrant city with long-term investment potential and a key market in our plans for growth across Australia.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been waiting for the perfect site in a prime inner-city location for about 10 years..

&ldquo;We wanted to create something rare and unique for our first project in Melbourne, and this location and the luxe, refined and timeless design will appeal to many.&rdquo;

Wellbeing and connection to nature, a staple of Crown Group&#39;s Sydney developments, is on show at Artis, which will have a number of&nbsp;exclusive resident facilities and amenities, including an indoor lap pool, spa, sauna, yoga studio, gym, resident&rsquo;s lounge and landscaped rooftop garden with views of the Melbourne skyline and Port Phillip Bay.

<a href="/new-apartments/175-187-sturt-street-southbank">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

Situated adjacent to a tram stop for convenient access into the city and universities, the residence is only a short walk to St Kilda&nbsp;Arts Precinct including the Malthouse Theatre, National Gallery of Victoria and Queen Victoria Gardens.

Crown Group Sales Director, Prisca Edwards said that currently all signs for the Melbourne property market are looking positive with housing and apartments seeing growth in the last quarter.

&quot;We are already seeing an upturn in property prices, auction clearance rates and sales,&quot; Edwards noted, adding that Artis is&nbsp;located at a prime inner-city location that boasts good investment opportunity and strong long-term capital growth prospects.

Crown Group recently celebrated its 25-year anniversary since its conception. Over that period they&#39;ve received 50 national and international awards.

Two of their Sydney projects - Infinity by Crown Group and Arc by Crown Group, were awarded the 2021 Best Tall Building under 100 metres by the prestigious Council of Tall Buildings and Urban Habitats.

Koichi Takada said the project’s name is a nod to the concept of ‘art in motion’ which is reflected in the design of the fluid ribbon-motion façade of the two elliptical-shaped buildings

Crown Group reveal first Melbourne apartment development, Artis at Southbank

The inner north Fitzroy, Carlton and Fitzroy North topped the list of Melbourne&rsquo;s top 50 most liveable suburbs.

They all scored 9.8 to top the list given connectivity and proximity to facilities such as public transport, healthcare services, shopping outlets, schools, parks, and walkability.

But there are more affordable suburbs within the top 50 list.

The system, using geospatial data from proptech firm propella.ai, measures the connectivity of a local area in relation to a range of amenities located within a 20-minute walk.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5502 project_image_fid=155332]

CoreLogic&rsquo;s Head of Data Products James Vaughan said the liveability score featured on the onthehouse website was a valuable insight to help buyers and renters assess various locations when looking for a property.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Liveability has been identified as a key factor in determining the appeal of an area, and providing these insights to users is designed to help them make more informed decisions, amongst many other factors, about where to buy, rent or invest,&rdquo; Mr Vaughan said.&nbsp;

According to propella.ai&rsquo;s liveability ratings system, Melbourne&rsquo;s top 50 most liveable suburbs range in score from 7.8 for Preston in 50th spot in the city&rsquo;s north.

Heidelberg and Essendon were at 7.9 where there are a number of developments on the market under $400,000 including Cultivate, at Heidelberg West by Kincaid Projects

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178988]

Situated on the fringe of Melbourne&#39;s top hospital precinct, minutes from La Trobe University and at the quiet, tree-lined end of Bell Street, the development features 146 apartments across two towers.

Due North, Preston by Caydon Property has one-bedroom apartments from $352,000 at 70-82 High Street.

Climbing 12 levels and comprising 107 apartments, Due North is a new fur-friendly apartment complex.

According to propella.ai’s liveability ratings system, Melbourne’s top 50 most liveable suburbs range in score from 7.8 for Preston in 50th spot in the city’s north

Affordable apartments in the most liveable suburbs of Melbourne

A beachfront site ripe for apartment development in Brighton, has hit the market.

The property is being offered to the market for the first time in 60 years.

Buyer interest above $25 million is expected.

The 3,348sq m property is at 257 St Kilda Street, next to the prestigious Royal Brighton Yacht Club.

It is currently a three-level seaside mansion occupied by the Redemptorist order. 

It is being taken to the market via an expressions of interest campaign run by James Thorpe, Stephen Kelly and Langton McHarg of Knight Frank clsoing December 8.

“The property is zoned residential,” Mr Thorpe said.

“The existing building could be retained for a future development, or the buyer could start with a blank canvass.”

The property comes with frontage to St Kilda Street and Mytton Grove, with views over Port Phillip Bay and Brighton Beach.

“Prior to launching the campaign we have already been fielding enquiries from developers, so we expect interest to rise once the property officially hits the market.”

The Redemptorists, which have been in Australia since 1882, are a community of Catholic priests, brothers and lay partners whose task it is to communicate the Christian message.

Their Brighton house has been a communication hub from which they published, the magazine called The Majellan.

The 3,348 sqm site is one of the biggest development site offerings in the bayside suburb.

The International on Brighton's coveted Bay Street, is being developed on a vast 4,100 sqm site in a joint venture between property developers, Landream and V-Leader. 

The 3,348sq m property is at 257 St Kilda Street, next to the prestigious Royal Brighton Yacht Club

$25 million Brighton apartment development site listed by Redemptorist order

The Melbourne property developer, Chapter Group, has carved out a reputation for producing high quality multi-residential and mixed-use buildings across Melbourne&#39;s inner ring for over a decade.

Speaking to Urban, Chapter Group director and founder Dean Lefkos&nbsp;said that the&nbsp;location&nbsp;is one of the&nbsp;top priorities when it comes to planning their next development.

&quot;If you&rsquo;ve bought well, in a good location which is going to be in demand through cycles, in some way shape or form, you can mitigate the risk that that development inherently has,&quot; Lefkos says.

&quot;Capital growth in the more blue-chip inner ring suburbs is also more predictable,&quot; Lefkos suggests, adding that, depending on the real estate cycle, the site which was intended for office could become residential, or vice-versa.

Chapter Group rarely secure sites which are listed for sale on the open market, which is another key part of their philosophy. They prefer to keep their ear to the ground and use their&nbsp;contacts within the industry to quietly buy sites off ma​rket, which Lefkos says unlocks more value.

&quot;If you get a track record in the industry, then they&#39;ll come to us.&nbsp;We receive strong inbound interest due to our track record in the industry&rdquo; Lefkos says.

&quot;Buying off m​a​​rket allows us to be more selective in the site and its location, as well as handle all of the due diligence in a more timely fashion that a listed site.

&quot;We can bring in the architects at the earliest possible stage to talk design, before committing to the site purchase.&quot;

Chapter Group&#39;s&nbsp;most recent strategic acquisition and launch is Fitzroy Fitzroy, a striking mixed-use project&nbsp;in the heart of Fitzroy which is a joint venture with CDL Australia and Crema.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183064]

The DKO Architecture-designed building of 63 residences has seen a wave of buyer demand, ranging from a Sydneysider intending to relocate,&nbsp;to a buyer based up in Swanhill, who&nbsp;purchased over a Zoom call.

The majority of enquiry has been from those who know the inner north area and Fitzroy and have been keen on the location and unique design.

Chapter will build above the existing herita​ge facade on the site, incorporating the current structure within the design of the ground level retail, level one commercial&nbsp;space, and the multi-level townhouses on Leicester Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14394 project_image_fid=183069]

Chapter Group&#39;s Senior Development Manager, Oliver Carroll, said keeping the existing building makes for an interesting built form.

&quot;Fitzroy Fitzroy is a really striking design that&nbsp;reflects where the markets heading - and responds closely to the local culture within Fitzroy,&quot; Carroll says.

&quot;It&#39;s in the heartland of old Melbourne - one of Melbourne&#39;s oldest suburbs.

While COVID affected a number of developers, who had to pivot away from the high density stock to a more owner-occupier friendly mix of apartments, Chapter Group didn&#39;t have to do too much to facilitate a point of difference.

&quot;It wasn&#39;t necessarily a case of making the apartments bigger, given we&#39;ve always consciously built apartments for owner-occupiers, but we wanted to be more clever with our designs&quot;, Carroll added.

&quot;One of the biggest changes was to create that working from home space, without changing&nbsp;the configuration of the apartments by losing a bedroom to a home office. It was important to build in a way where residents can step away from the TV space to work.&quot;

Chapter Group recently&nbsp;topped out another one of its developments, Ukiyo, a strikingly modern development of just 10 half and full-floor&nbsp;apartments&nbsp;in Prahran.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4821 project_image_fid=30081]

Ukiyo&nbsp;was designed by K2LD Architects, merging together the term Ukiyo, which translates to &#39;floating world&#39; in Japanese, with the origins of Prahran, which was named as a compound of two Aboriginal words, &#39;land surrounded by water&#39;.

The design was drawn from the Japanese Ukiyo-e art movement Ukiyo, which creates&nbsp;floating worlds deeply connected to the rhythms and lifestyles of the neighbourhood.

Completion of the 10-apartment development&nbsp;is slated for mid-2022.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4821 project_image_fid=30082]

Chapter Group&#39;s other project, the luxury Armadale development Monument, has sold steadily throughout COVID, despite the average sold price currently tracking at around $3 million.

&quot;It&#39;s a testament to the product, location, and design&quot;, Lefkos says.

As expected, the interest has been 80 to 90 per cent locals, predominantly downsizers who have walked around the area and know the location, and are wanting to stay within the area they&#39;ve known for years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93828 project_image_fid=153800]

Lefkos says the buyers that they often cater for are people who have gone through a number of properties over their lifetime, or may have even built their homes.

&quot;These purchasers won&#39;t always just accept what&#39;s given to them. They want that level of customisation, maybe combine two two-bedroom apartments, or add a den, home office, media room, or even a spa on the balcony.&quot;

One Monument buyer had Chapter Group&nbsp;put a roof terrace on their apartment.

&quot;There&#39;s no cookie-cutter approval to development.&quot; Lefkos says.

Chapter Group's most recent strategic acquisition and launch is Fitzroy Fitzroy, a striking mixed-use project in the heart of Fitzroy, a joint venture with CDL Australia and Crema

Why location is a key factor for Chapter Group's apartment developments, as Fitzroy Fitzroy launches

The $2.7 billion mixed-use development, STH BNK By Beulah in Melbourne&#39;s Southbank, is continuing to break ground as one of the mostly luxury offerings the city will have seen for a number of years.

STH BNK By Beulah is set to offer Australia&rsquo;s first-of-its-kind Private Auto Club for residents as car ownership declines.

The STH BNK Auto Club will see residents have the opportunity to use the fleet of luxury vehicles,&nbsp;from&nbsp;BMWs and Teslas to Porches and Range Rovers.

There will be 50 cars available to book, similar to a traditional&nbsp;car sharing model, with the added perks of an on-site team to clean, maintain and valet park cars, with chauffeur drivers available on request. Residents will be able to book a car via a mobile phone app or concierge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8804 project_image_fid=27929]&nbsp;

It&#39;s a response by Beulah to data from the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries which showed new car sales in Australia have been declining since 2017.

In April 2021, new car sales had plummeted 48.5 per cent year-on-year, the biggest decline in 30 years and the 25th consecutive month of plunging new car sales.

According to a 2019 RACV Survey, the cost of car ownership is 66 per cent more expensive than drivers realise, with the largest cost being the depreciation of the car, followed by loan repayments.

It is said that cars are motionless around 95 per cent of the time and in cities, this climbs to an average of 97 per cent.

<a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

Beulah Managing Director Jiaheng Chan said the STH BNK Auto Club will assist residents in saving money, while also providing them with the luxury and accessibility a car affords.

&ldquo;STH BNK is centrally located and boasts a walk score of 98, meaning a car is not a necessity. By providing residents with access to the STH BNK Auto Club, they can still enjoy the luxuries and freedom a car offers without the associated costs of car ownership, and in the process, can experience a range of different cars - depending on their mood or needs.

&ldquo;This is just one of the many services residents will have access to at STH BNK as we look to cater to ever-evolving lifestyle choices, one that puts sustainability and technology front of mind,&rdquo; he said.

STH BNK Auto Club will offer three tiers of membership levels including Silver, Gold and Diamond, with each member of the program able to select a tier based on their needs and wants; silver being the most cost effective, while Diamond provides access to luxury cars and EVs. EVs will be progressively added to the fleet, with Beulah committed to a full EV fleet by 2030.

<a href="/new-apartments/sth-bnk-by-beulah-southbank-60-southbank-boulevard-southbank">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

There will be two towers at the City Road address, one rising 102 storeys to be Australia&#39;s tallest tower at 366 metres. There will be around 449 apartments across the two towers, as well as a hotel, commercial, and retail space.

Construction is set to get underway in mid-2022, with a 2027 completion date forecast.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8804]

The STH BNK Auto Club will see residents have the opportunity to use the fleet of luxury vehicles, from BMWs and Teslas to Porches and Range Rovers

STH BNK By Beulah set for Australia's first shared Private Auto Club for residents

The Melbourne property developer Growland has appointed the respected national builder, Hacer Group, to construct its $120 million luxury apartment development, Neue Grand.

Neue Grand, already 50 per cent sold of its full-floor apartments at 613 St Kilda Road, has been one of the most anticipated developments in recent years, with the added level of exclusivity which sees apartments home a sky garage, allowing&nbsp;residents to park their cars in a glass garage next to their living room.

Hacer is no stranger to building high-end apartment developments. They are currently building&nbsp;17 Spring Street for Cbus Property and worked on DUX Richmond for Little Projects&nbsp;and the Queen&#39;s Domain apartment block.

Hacer Group Director Vin Sammartino expressed the team&rsquo;s excitement towards this new project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4766 project_image_fid=40810]

&ldquo;We are thrilled we have been chosen by Growland as the preferred builder for its prestige collector&rsquo;s edition project, Neue Grand,&quot; Sammartino said.

&quot;We are committed to delivering on the exceptional standards outlined in the design and construction of this build; redefining luxury and indulgences for city living, with the introduction of the southern hemisphere&rsquo;s first sky garage residences. Set to become a truly iconic address, we look forward to commencing at full steam ahead.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4766 project_image_fid=40811]

Designed by Rothelowman, Neue Grand will have just 18 apartments across the 20-level tower, 17 whole-floor apartments and one penthouse.

The penthouse will have four-bedrooms and measures to 650 sqm over two levels with an additional 216 sqm for a private rooftop terrace.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4766 project_image_fid=182940]

Residents will also have access to&nbsp;six-star concierge services.

Growland chief executive Ronald Chan says the company is proud to be the ones to bring a new standard of living to Melbourne.

&quot;Neue Grand is a luxuriously unique development that undoubtedly raises the benchmark for city living,&quot; Chan said, adding that they are pleased to be working with Hacer.

Growland bought the&nbsp;St Kilda Rd site for $12.1 million in 2015.

Completion of Neue Grand is slated for late-2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=4766]

Designed by Rothelowman, Neue Grand will have just 18 apartments across the 20-level tower, 17 whole-floor apartments and one penthouse.



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