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 Melbourne developer Hexa Group is developing a brand-new collection of three and four-bedroom townhomes in the multicultural community of Doveton.

Competitively priced just 30 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, Hexa Group&#39;s latest development, Kinsfolk, has been designed by Rothelowman to take in its surrounding pristine bushlands.

There are just 66 townhomes on offer at Kinsfolk, with construction well underway.

Urban has taken a look at why first home buyers in particular are keen on Kinsfolk.

1. Great location

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8395 project_image_fid=46054]

At the gateway of Victoria&rsquo;s holiday territory, Doveton is within reach of the Dandenong Ranges, and the Mornington Peninsula.

&ldquo;It is a place where things start to feel a little more serene, thanks to an encompassment of pristine bushlands, reserves, and waterways&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Residents will find themselves joining an established community at the centre of modern conveniences and surrounded by reserves and parkland.&nbsp;

2. Designed by Rothelowman

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8395 project_image_fid=46059]

With a collection of three and four-bedroom townhouses available, Kinsfolk presents future homeowners with the opportunity to establish a new life in modern comfort.

&ldquo;Deliberately designed to foster a sense of community, Kinsfolk is focused on providing residents with an enhanced quality of life. The confident architecture provides an elegant and timeless backdrop to the lives of future residents&rdquo;, said Rothelowman principal architect, Chris Hayton.

Rothelowman is an Australian-based firm with a reputation for quality residential designs, introducing a new calibre of living to Doveton.

3. Affordability

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8395 project_image_fid=46058]

Even though Doveton is not far from the lush Dandenong Ranges, the suburb is a thriving urban enclave with affordable housing.

The multicultural suburb delivers a cultural richness that has undergone significant transformations in recent years thanks to new developments.

Its close proximity to Dandenong provides numerous amenities, including the Dandenong Hospital, Dandenong Plaza and Dandenong Golf Course.

Brand-new townhouses at Kinsfolk a priced from an affordable $579,000.

4. Natural surrounds perfect for community

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8395 project_image_fid=46056]

Kinsfolk&nbsp;townhouses are complimented with considered landscaping that features an assortment of native trees and plants.

&ldquo;Each corner of Kinsfolk&nbsp;occupancy, from the reserve areas to each townhouse&#39;s&nbsp;parking landscape, has been treated with care and in pursuit of creating harmonious surroundings&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Kinsfolk streetscapes boast small-medium canopy trees, indigenous plants, gums and ironbarks, while oaks and bottlebrushes are found inside the perimeter of the development.

Spacious grass areas make for top spots for children and families to play and relax, as well as pedestrian paths to encourage outdoor living.

5. Distinctive interiors

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8395 project_image_fid=46057]

Rothelowman has designed this collection of&nbsp;townhouses with an impressive level of detail, evident in the lavish finishes and fixtures.

Contemporary in its aesthetic, Kinsfolk paves the way for a new style of suburban living, while celebrating its naturally opulent surroundings.

The home&rsquo;s open-plan scheme allows for a seamless flow, while grand windows open up to the garden and terrace areas.

A natural palette makes up the bathrooms and bedrooms, creating welcoming and hospitable sanctuaries to unwind in, and provide future residents with a blank canvas to make their own.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=8395]

There are just 66 townhomes on offer at Kinsfolk, with construction well underway

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Gateway to Victoria’s holiday hotspots: Five reasons first homebuyers love Kinsfolk townhouses at Doveton, near Dandenong

Demand for building block land in all Melbourne's catchment areas remains strong, according to Red23's managing director, Terry Portelli,

Land availability is anticipated to slow with limited land releases expected for the remainder of 2021, the Red23 report noted.

The median land price increased by 1% in August to $332,400 and by 4% on 12 months ago, according to the residential project sales and marketing company's monthly update. 

The big price movements came in with Whittlesea and Melton while Casey’s median land price has fluctuated up and down over the last 3 months due to stock availability.

"As prices continue to increase in the established and new homes market, affordability has again become an issue. 

"Presently, we are experiencing an increase in investors as they are encouraged by rising prices and the prospect of capital gains, while owner occupiers are responding to deteriorating affordability. 

"Deteriorating affordability in the middle ring areas will see many families move further out to greenfield and regional areas or accept living in a smaller townhouse or apartment. 

"For the moment, detached houses are preferred over medium density living due to the pandemic, however, this trend may soon come to an end."

The reported noted land sizes have decreased by 3% in Metropolitan Melbourne and 17% in Greater Geelong in the last 24 months as prices increase. 

The Metropolitan Melbourne median land size is currently 388sqm and 400sqm in Greater Geelong. 

"A traditional 400sqm land size has been superseded by a 350sqm lot," the October market report by the greenfield land sales specialist noted.

Blocks which are 350sqm are most affordable in Mitchell Shire with an entry price of $245,000 followed by Melton South at $272,000. 

Wyndham offers this block size at Mambourin for an affordable price of $283,000. 

In established areas such as Point Cook, this size block is $469,000 and in Cranbourne, it is $366,000. 

Comparing these lot prices to the same time in 2019, it was $390,000 in Point Cook and $330,000 in Cranbourne. In 2019, it was the most affordable in Strathulloh at $190,000.

Land sizes have decreased by 3% in the metropolitan Melbourne catchment

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Investors seeking out land for home building in Melbourne catchment: Red23

Clyde's future 26-hectare town centre site is tipped to fetch more than $60 million, after being listed by National Pacific Properties, the development arm of home builder Burbank Group.

The site at 1625 Ballast Road, next to the future Clyde train station, has been listed through Peter Sagar of LAWD and Justin Dowers of Stonebridge.

It adjoins NPP’s Eliston housing estate, an 97ha masterplanned community which will be home to about 2730 residents when completed in about 2023.

The town centre has development approval for 40,000 to 50,000 square metres of retail space and 40,000 to 50,000 square metres of commercial office space.

Set within one of the largest in Melbourne’s growth corridors, NPP general manager Tom Trevaskis the site had been identified as a “major activity centre” by the Victorian government.

The south-east growth corridor, set about 50 kilometres from the Melbourne CBD, saw around 850 lot sales across some 24 housing estates in July and August, according to land sales specialist Core Projects, on the back of strong demand for detached housing and a relatively constrained future land supply.

Trevaskis said accelerated development of adjoining land provided a ready-made retail catchment for the future town centre.

The Clyde town centre was being taken to market as NPP intend to focus on "ramping up" its real estate development business, and not have a strategy to develop and hold retail centres.

Burbank Group was founded as a Melbourne home builder in 1983 by stepbrothers Eddie Sanfilippo and Eddie Puhar.

Led by Jarrod Sanfilippo, the late Mr Sanfilippo’s son, the company has since expanded into Queensland, NSW, ACT and South Australia.

NPP was formed in 2005 as a land developer.


It has been listed by National Pacific Properties, the development arm of home builder Burbank Group

Clyde's future town centre development site listed at Eliston estate

The high-end Melbourne developer, PB &amp; Co., has secured approval from the City of Melbourne Council to convert the historic East Melbourne home Eblana in to a $35 million luxury residential apartment development.

Eblana, the former home of the Young &amp; Jackson publican, Thomas Jackson, will become three full floor apartments and a double-storey penthouse designed by Inhaus Design, who will be retaining and restoring its original built form.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108801]

The Italianate-style terrace at&nbsp;140-142 Jolimont Road was built in the 1800s and was used as the head office for the postmaster general, after the Commonwealth bought it in 1925.

PB &amp; Co., headed by developer Michael Pesochinsky and Edward Bun, has been working with&nbsp;the Melbourne City Council and local objectors to put together an appropriate development.

"The core origins and fabric of Eblana speak to Melbourne's grand era in the late 1800s, which is complemented by rich history and exquisite colonial architecture of James Gall," Bragilevsky&nbsp;said.

"We have consulted closely with the East Melbourne Group, Melbourne City Council and key objector groups to reach a commercial outcome, and appreciate the constructive&nbsp;nature of these discussions.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/pb_co_east_melbourne_elevated.jpg" width="1200" />

"We have worked tirelessly with architects Bayley Ward to delivery five spectacular full floor residences which will enjoy remarkable views of Melbourne's CBD precinct.

"Being able to restore this spectacular building to its former glory, and then to delivery a world class 'ultra-luxe' development to the Melbourne elite is gratifying and in line with PB &amp; Co.'s vision."

The ground floor apartment&nbsp;will be housed within the existing structure, with historic elements such as the grand double-height ceilings and the original tiling brought back to life.

Four new apartments, in keeping with the original design, will be built above.

Each apartment will have three bedrooms, multiple living zones, winter gardens and study retreats, as well as a fully automated car parking system likened to a James Bond-style of parking.

The 315 sqm penthouse, expected to sell for over $10 million,&nbsp;will have views over Fitzroy Gardens and Melbourne's skyline. It will feature a private rooftop terrace and infinity pool.

"We are very much looking forward to continuing the trend of our signature branded residences and unveilings the next global collaboration in the coming months,"&nbsp;Bragilevsky added.

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after.

PB &amp; Co. now have over&nbsp;$350 million across Melbourne and Sydney’s prestigious wealth belts, having recently spent $60 million on a site in Sydney's Kurraba Point. That could see between eight and 12 luxury residences built on the 4,200 sqm block.

One of their latest Melbourne projects, Fifty Two Black, in Brighton, is kitted out in Restoration Hardware.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106713 project_image_fid=171917]

The development is set to launch early next year, with construction commencement expected shortly after

PB & Co. to convert historic East Melbourne terrace, Eblana, in to five luxury apartments

First home buyers are continuing their property search as we head in to the summer selling season.

While ABS data showed first home buyer&nbsp;loan commitments have tapered off for the seventh month in a row, Urban are still seeing a significant uptake from first home buyers, as much as there was during the HomeBuilder boom earlier this year.

First home buyers are still making up&nbsp;more than a quarter of new owner occupier loans, as developers and agents cite continued strong interest from the segment.

ABS data shows new first home buyer commitments remain more than 50 per cent higher compared to this time last year.

With first home buyer loan commitments still holding strong, Urban has highlighted the developments in the suburbs most popular amongst first home buyers for the month of September.

<h2>Brunswick</h2>

Brunswick has always been a popular spot for the younger, first home buyer demographi.

When COVID lockdowns lift, the eclectic suburb in Melbourne's north&nbsp;will again be home to live music, upbeat pubs and beer gardens.

At the area's heart, Sydney Road has Middle Eastern and Mediterranean eateries, offbeat shops, shisha lounges and cafes along its considerable length. Neighbouring East Brunswick is more upscale, home to upwardly mobile professionals and craft-beer bars.

One of the most in demand projects on Urban for first home buyers has been&nbsp;4 Ballarat Street, namely down to its location and&nbsp;affordability. Prices&nbsp;start&nbsp;as low as&nbsp;$467,500 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Located in the heart of Brunswick, the development team at Assemble&nbsp;Futures operate on a&nbsp;rent-with-the-option-to-buy model, which has made this development particularly popular amongst first home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94542 project_image_fid=160739]

The new rent-with-the-option-to-buy model offers a more accessible pathway to owning a home, that bridges the gap between renting and buying. Once the applicant signs the lease agreement and contract of sale, they secure five years agreed rent with the option to buy their home at the end of the lease period.

Designed by Fieldwork Architects and with landscaping by Rush Wright, 4 Ballarat places an emphasis on providing a seamless transition to the natural environment, with each apartment running on 100% renewable energy. This also appeals to the more&nbsp;environmentally conscious younger generations.

<h2>Melbourne</h2>

The stamp duty concessions in the CBD has increased its popularity with first home buyers, as those looking and getting on the ladder for the first time are eyeing somewhere near the central office hub of the city.

Home to some of Melbourne’s best cultural and entertainment venues, as well as an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, cafe's and everything in between, residents love Degraves Street and the Bourke Street Mall in particular. Shoppers can get lost for hours, while diners can find an ideal meal at any price point.&nbsp;

It is also home to a&nbsp;bumping nightlife with clubs and bars renowned across Australia.

One of the latest popular developments on the Melbourne CBD fringe is&nbsp;St Boulevard, the three-tower project by The Shakespeare Group.&nbsp;

Recently completed, St Boulevard offers an unrepeatable location, located in a prime position on the corner of St Kilda Rd and High Street, and at the southern tip of Albert Park Lake,&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177638]

Apartments start from $410,000 in the Elenberg-Fraser designed development.

St Boulevard is&nbsp;made up of three towers Magnolia, Anaca and Ginko, and puts residents on the fringes of Albert and Fawkner Parks. It's&nbsp;a short stroll to the&nbsp;St Kilda and Prahran precincts.

&nbsp;

<h2>Keysborough</h2>

The family-friendly suburb of Keysborough,&nbsp;27 kilometres south-east of Melbourne, continues to be popular with first home buyers and young families, due to its larger, and more affordable, apartments and townhouses.

The hottest project is&nbsp;Haven Townhomes, the townhouse development created by Aultun Group and design by Cera Stribley Architects.

There are three-bedroom townhomes on offer, priced from $714,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59639]

Situated surrounded by thriving wetlands and meandering walking trails, each of the 59 Haven Townhomes are in a prime position for sweeping views, access to nature and convenient amenities.

<h2>Hawthorn East</h2>

Hawthorn East is usually a feature on the most popular investor suburbs but it isn't the first-time it has shown up on the most popular first home buyer list, with Dahua Group's&nbsp;Hawthorn Park recently completion being a factor.&nbsp;

Located in one of Melbourne’s most blue chip suburbs, the Hawthorn East development is surrounded by heritage homes and buildings, cafes, boutiques and bars, in addition to&nbsp;a well connected public transport system.

Dahua Group&nbsp;had architecture firm&nbsp;Rothelowman, one of Australia’s leading architecture practices, collaborate with the landscape architect&nbsp;Jack Merlo&nbsp;on the Camberwell Road development of 330 residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730 project_image_fid=171605]

Residents enjoy the property’s landscaped green spaces and parks that feature fruit and vegetable gardens for dwellers to grow their own produce. The project also features a sky boardwalk, splash pool, sky lounge, massage suites and fully-equipped gym.

<h2>Wollert</h2>

Discerning first home buyers with an eye on future infrastructure growth have been looking at Wollert, the growing area 26 kilometres north of Melbourne.

The future 64-hectare master-planned community, Mason Quarter, has been the most sought-after project in Wollert.

Delivered by Cedar Woods, Mason Quarter&nbsp;incorporates over 800 dwellings, two schools, community facilities, a 7.9-hectare conservation reserve and over 30 distributed tree reserves with majestic river red gums.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95340 project_image_fid=160803]

Mason Quarter offers buyers the choice of either land starting from as low as&nbsp;$275,500 for a 238 sqm package to build their dream home or a residence in one of their releases like Mason Quarter Townhomes.

The community is&nbsp;located within walking distance of the future&nbsp;Wollert&nbsp;town centre and there is a range of existing infrastructure and public amenity available nearby including the Hume Freeway, Metropolitan Ring Road, hospitals, shopping centres and public transport.

ABS data shows new first home buyer commitments remain more than 50 per cent higher compared to this time last year.



jordan_55689

Urban's most popular Melbourne suburbs for first home buyers in September

Apartment sales in the Melbourne CBD totalled $321 million with 485 sales in the three months to August 2021, according to Cityscope.

The sales activity dipped after two strong quarters, as sales pivoted towards established apartments.

The 485 sales was split between 370 established units and 115 off the plan sales.

The report noted continued off the plan acquisitions in Queens Place, the twin skyscrapers being built at 350 Queen Street, which on completion will be among the tallest buildings in Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2806 project_image_fid=175417]

The $1 billion project from developer 3L Alliance is situated at the fringe of Flagstaff Hill, collaboratively designed by architects Fender Katsalidis Architects and Cox Architecture, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

The recently completed sellout Tower 1 comprises 819 apartments across 80 levels, with nomination sales being offered for sale.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2806 project_image_fid=175419]

The established sales during the quarter included some early resales after completion of St. Boulevard, designed by Elenberg Fraser on St. Kilda Road.

It reflected a decrease on the $500 million from 751 sales recorded in three months to May 2021, when the split was 262 established apartments and 489 off the plan sales.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=177638]

There were 718 sales totalling $517 million in the quarter to February 2021, when the split was 171 established apartments and 542 off the plan sales.

The latest data brings the twelve-month sales total to $1.835 billion, an increase from the previous twelve months, which recorded sales of $1.093 billion.

The latest data took the twelve-month sales total to $1.835 billion

Melbourne CBD apartment sales activity pivots to established unit sales

Michael Renzella&rsquo;s long held 1880s boom time Hotel Claremont building in South Yarra has been sold for around $22m to Andy Zhang&#39;s V-Leader group.

It comes with a permit for a $50 million, 12-level, luxury mixed use project.

Emmett's marketed the 189 Toorak Road Hotel Claremont property with $20m plus price expectations. The sale comes soon after the next corner closer to South Yarra station, a row of four Tudor style shops, has been sold with development potential for $13.15 million.

Covering 613 sqm, the 169-175 Toorak Rd property was marketed for its potential for a 10-plus level tower.

The neighbourhood has attracted attention from property developer Oreana, which has reportedly spent $48 million buying the neighbours for a hotel and wellness centre.

The three-storey brick Italianate 81-room Hotel Claremont building with two shops was built in 1886 as the South Yarra Coffee Palace, one of several temperance alcohol-free destinations.

Selling agents Michael Ludski and Luke Bisset took more than 200 enquiries including six formal expressions of interest.

They advised the buyer was likely to undergo a redevelopment along the lines of the approved project.

The permit for the 906 square metre site allows for 57 apartment development of a mixed use building comprising four shops totalling 712 square metres, 1195 square metres of office space, and 30 car parking spaces.&nbsp;

Located on the corner of Claremont Street, the property has an approved DA for construction of a mixed use building with 54 units, 4 retail shops and 5 offices plus basement car parking for 22 vehicles, 53 bicycle parks and 54 storage units.

The hotel last traded at $2,250,000 at auction in 1994.

There are two retail tenancies, Chemist Warehouse and Sirocco.

The tenants are returning a combined annual income of $181,500, with leases having termination clauses.

V-Leader has undertaken more than $440 million of property development including 6 Sydney St, Prahran, 16 apartments in a six-storey building designed by Wood Marsh Architecture.

Construction is due for completion in late 2021 by VCON Construction.

There is a $3.62 million price on the last ground floor, three bedroom, three bathroom apartment with a 187 square metre terrace/courtyard, through V-Leader agent Sam Fisher.

Michael Renzella’s Hotel Claremont building in South Yarra has sold to a local developer

Apartment developer buys South Yarra landmark, Hotel Claremont

Melbourne&#39;s apartment values continued to grow over September, posting 0.2 per cent gains according to the property data firm CoreLogic&#39;s monthly index.

It&#39;s another month of gains for Melbourne apartments, which haven&#39;t seen a decline in 2021 despite the continued shutdown of immigration due to border closures.

Across 2020 Melbourne apartment values were flat, and so far in 2021 they&#39;ve grown 6.8 per cent, to a new median $619,000. The median at the start of the year was $576,000.

Housing affordability continues to worsen nationally, as houses in most of&nbsp;the major capitals outstripped the growth in the apartment market, the exceptions being Hobart and Darwin.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100322 project_image_fid=163026]

CoreLogic&rsquo;s national home value index saw dwellings (houses and units combined) jump&nbsp;another 1.5 per cent&nbsp;in September, taking Australian housing values 17.6 per cent higher over the first nine months of the year and 20.3 per cent&nbsp;higher over the past 12 months. The annual growth rate is now tracking at the fastest pace since the year ending June 1989.

Despite the prolonged growth of dwelling prices, the growth has eased back slightly from the peak growth rate in March nationally dwelling values increased by 2.8 per cent.

CoreLogic&rsquo;s research director, Tim Lawless, believes the slowing growth conditions are the result of higher barriers to entry for non- home owners along with fewer government incentives to enter the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8082 project_image_fid=59639]

&ldquo;With housing values rising substantially faster than household incomes, raising a deposit has become more challenging for most cohorts of the market, especially first home buyers,&quot; Lawless said.

&quot;Sydney is a prime example where the median house value is now just over $1.3 million. In order to raise a 20 per cent&nbsp;deposit, the typical Sydney house buyer would need around $262,300.

&quot;Existing home owners looking to upgrade, downsize or move home may be less impacted as they have had the benefit of equity that has accrued as housing values surged.

The number of owner-occupier first home buyer loans has fallen by -20.5 per cent between January and July, as the impact of the tapering of government stimulus continues to show.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107514 project_image_fid=170768]

Lawless notes that over the same period,&nbsp;the number of first home buyers taking out an investment housing loan has increased, albeit from a low base, by 45 per cent.

&quot;This suggests more first home buyers are choosing to &lsquo;rent vest&rsquo; as a way of getting their foot in the door,&rdquo; Lawless said.

The September quarter saw unit values rising faster than house values across regional Australia.

&quot;This is probably a reflection of stronger demand for downsizing options and holiday homes in popular coastal markets,&rdquo; Lawless suggested.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88243]

Investors are back looking at the local apartment market. Unit rents now rising faster than houses across Melbourne (1.3 per cent for units, 1.1 per cent for houses).

&ldquo;This is a significant change in rental market trends, where previously the unit precincts, especially inner-city high-rise areas of Melbourne and Sydney, were acting as a drag on rental growth,&rdquo; Lawless said.

Yields are low in the major capitals, however so are investor mortgage rates, Lawless notes.&nbsp;

&quot;In July, the average three-year fixed rate for a new investor loan was 2.38 per cent, while variable rates were averaging 3.01 per cent.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3459 project_image_fid=147572]

Lawless says the coming months are likely to see advertised stock levels move higher.

&quot;The spring selling season has been delayed to some extent by lockdowns in Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra, however the recent trend has shifted towards a rising number of new listings.

&quot;As demand becomes more constrained from worsening affordability and potentially tighter lending conditions, advertised stock levels may start to normalise over the final quarter of the year.

&quot;This could take further heat out of the market as buyers benefit from more choice and less urgency.&quot;

The number of owner-occupier first home buyer loans has fallen by -20.5 per cent between January and July, as the impact of the tapering of government stimulus continues to show

Melbourne apartment insights: What happened to Melbourne apartment values in September?

A $95 million apartment building, dubbed &ldquo;Fitzroy Fitzroy&rdquo;, has been proposed by Melbourne developer Chapter Group.

The nine storey Smith Street project is set to have 63 apartments, ranging in price from $570,000 to $3.7 million, plus six townhouses.

It will have 575 square metres of ground floor retail space across three tenancies fronting Smith and Leicester streets, replacing the flagship Kathmandu store in Melbourne.

The mixed-use project at 411-421 Smith Street has been designed by architect, DKO with trapezoid shaped upper levels to accommodate setbacks.

There will also be 679 sqm&nbsp;of office space in the joint venture between Chapter, CDL Australia and Crema Group.

<img alt="" height="768" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/chapter_group_fitzroy_smith_st_2.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The mixed-use project&nbsp;with trapezoid shaped upper levels to accommodate setbacks. Image credit: DKO 
&nbsp; 
CDL is a subsidiary of Singapore-listed City Developments, which has a pipeline of 800 units in Brisbane and Melbourne.

Chapter paid around $20 million for the 1820 sqm site in 2019 which contains a single and double-storey red brick interwar complex originally comprising a workshop and garage.

Its sale marketing advised the two tenants, Kathmandu &amp; Bellboy were on leases expiring March 2022 paying $580,000pa.

Haus Apartments, at 416 Smith Street, directly opposite the site, has been redeveloped with an eight-storey residential tower with set back above a two-storey podium on the street.

Its recent projects have included Ukiyo at 2 Porter St, Prahran and Monument at 608 Orrong Rd, Armadale.

Chapter Group proposes a nine level building at 411-421 Smith Street 

Fitzroy Fitzroy - 63 apartments proposed for Chapter Group's Fitzroy development

When looking for your new home, location is, without a doubt, one of the most important things to take into consideration, which is why we always see an increase in demand when a well-positioned development hits the market.

One of our exciting new listings in the popular area of Heidelberg West&nbsp;is Cultivate. Take a look at our apartment spotlight video:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AnfN5Bc_HvE" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>CULTIVATE&nbsp;AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer: Kincaid 
Estimated completion:&nbsp;Late 2023 
Address:&nbsp;294 Bell Street, Heidelberg West VIC 3081

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=628]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178967]

Developer Kincaid’s Cultivate is commencing construction at the end of the year and offers an affordable collection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes bordering Heidelberg West and Ivanhoe.

Looking at Cultivate's location, we know these homes are going to sell quickly. It's situated on the fringe of Melbourne's top hospital precinct, minutes from La Trobe University and at the quiet, tree-lined end of Bell Street, with a bus to the city right from your doorstep.

At the weekends, you can enjoy spending time at Darebin Creek Forest Park and Warringal Parklands or venture 10 minutes south to Ivanhoe Golf Course.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178966]

Cultivate will feature 146 residential apartments spread across two towers, with a rooftop barbeque area offering some of the best skyline views in the city.

We particularly love this space as it provides the perfect zone to spend summer evenings enjoying an alfresco meal with friends and family. You can also use the area to work outdoors, relax in the sun with a good book, or watch the sunrise with a cup of coffee.

Each thoughtfully designed apartment uses timeless materials.&nbsp;There's a selection of two colour palates available. The dark scheme offers chic charcoal cabinetry and grey tiles, while the light option features Scandinavian light oak joinery and ivory tiles.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=628 project_image_fid=178968]

The benches feature smooth curved edges, which is an innovative look we haven't seen often; plus, each home features integrated Smeg and Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, as well as four-burner gas hobs.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The bathrooms are very generous in size and ultra-modern. Semi-frameless showers are stylish and the perfect cost-effective alternative to frameless – and I particularly love the added modern detail of the brushed stainless tapware.

Secure a 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom, home from just $556K, we think the development offers excellent value for money in this coveted area.&nbsp;

To learn more about Cultivate, enquire today and let us help you find the perfect home.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=628]

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