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]

Joel Robinson

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

The long-planned transformation of Brisbane's historic Shafston Estate has taken another major step, with Capella Hotel Group announced as the luxury hospitality partner behind what will become Brisbane's first branded residences.

The project, to be known as Capella Residences Brisbane, is being delivered by Verso Projects at the landmark Kangaroo Point riverfront estate, with completion targeted for 2029.

The announcement follows a series of planning changes to the project over recent years. The site was originally approved in 2023 for a 15-level, 37-apartment development designed by Rothelowman for Burgundy Group before Verso Projects took over the 10,070 sqm riverfront holding and lodged revised plans with Kerry Hill Architects to increase the development to a 25-level tower with 51 apartments.

The latest announcement confirms Capella Hotel Group will bring its branded residential offering to the project, marking just the second Capella Residences development globally after Seoul, and the group's first branded residential project in Australia.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/23-castlebar-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Castlebar Street development</a> will centre around the restoration of the heritage-listed Shafston House, one of Brisbane's oldest residences, originally constructed in 1851 by Reverend Robert Creyke as a single-storey cottage known as Ravenscott.

<img alt="Capella" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b9f4ce5-638f-4d6b-8082-3ca7e4b75fca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-09%20at%207.20.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=f7aeqsW_DzOJI4FymWb3lD8NptSfsP7q" />

Capella said the project aligns with its focus on heritage-led developments, with the Brisbane estate combining the restored historic residence with a new luxury apartment tower and hospitality-inspired resident amenities.

Residents will have access to the Capella Living Room, a concierge-led communal space inspired by the group's luxury hotels, alongside landscaped gardens, six swimming pools, wellness and recreation facilities.

The broader estate will also include two riverfront homes, a six-berth private marina, porte cochère arrival experience, secure basement parking and a new section of public riverwalk along the Brisbane River frontage.

The heritage Postal Depot Building will also be retained and repurposed as a guest house, in line with the revised development plans.

The project represents another evolution for the site, which Kerry Hill Architects previously described as a rare opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's most significant heritage estates while creating a new benchmark for apartment living.

"The Shafston Estate provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity to restore one of Brisbane's finest heritage precincts and to reinstate residential use as a unique site perched on the edge of Kangaroo Point," Kerry Hill Architects said in its Urban Context Report accompanying the planning submission.

"The project will celebrate excellence in sub-tropical residential design, setting a new benchmark for vertical living in Brisbane."

Verso Projects, which now has an $8.5 billion development pipeline spanning more than 6,000 dwellings across apartments, townhouses, retail and commercial projects, said the partnership with Capella would elevate the development beyond a traditional residential project.

"We feel honoured to be restoring Shafston Estate to its former glory, elevating it to new heights of luxury and excellence underpinned by Capella's distinctive service ethos and design philosophy, and making it a standout landmark in Brisbane," Verso Projects CEO Steve Laffey said.

"By partnering with Capella, globally recognised for its refined approach to luxury hospitality and deep respect for cultural and historical context, we will elevate this project beyond a residential offering into a world-class destination."

Capella Hotel Group President Roland Fasel said Brisbane's emergence as a global city made it the right location for the company's Australian residential debut.

"Brisbane is a city on the cusp of something remarkable, and Capella Residences is our commitment to being part of that story," Fasel said.

"The Capella residential experience is more than luxury. It is about a sense of belonging to a place with deep meaning."

Private appointments have now opened for the project, with a display suite expected to open in late 2026 ahead of the planned 2029 completion.

Capella to launch Brisbane's first branded residences at Shafston House, Kangaroo Point

Lewis Land's latest apartment release within its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan is targeting one of the Gold Coast's fastest-growing buyer groups, with almost a third of apartments at Solis priced below $1 million.

The seven-storey building at Biggera Waters will comprise 91 apartments, including 24 one-bedroom residences starting from $778,000, a price point Lewis Land says is aimed squarely at first home buyers struggling to enter the Gold Coast market.

<img alt="Harbour Shires" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e7486e37-22f6-4c92-b212-9b0622070b8f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=W8MJwJUCf6HkIyl_EVSksnd.QI6MZryY" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lewis-land-group">Lewis Land</a> Head of Development Michael Long said the developer deliberately allocated a significant proportion of the project to more affordable apartment types.

"First home buyers have been priced out of many parts of the Gold Coast, and we saw a clear opportunity to address this and play our part in a longer-term housing solution," Long said.

"That's why 24 of the 91 apartments being delivered at Solis have been designed and priced for the city's next generation of homeowners, quality one-bedroom apartments, half of which include an additional multipurpose room to maximise space and flexibility.

"This approach places 30 per cent of apartments in Solis under $1 million, and with close proximity to Harbour Town's future light rail extension connecting residents to the city's major employment and knowledge hubs, it's a win for buyers looking to secure their first property."

<img alt="Sores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="550526d3-73ba-4710-9739-c5f4294a30ef" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-08%20at%209.09.29%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=cQQdXHt9wS0UXwZEm5Py5bH_3kAmzyhu" />

Designed by BDA Architecture, Solis will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with residences ranging up to 232 sqm. Apartments feature generous balconies and contemporary finishes, while residents will have access to Harbour Shores' lagoon pool, clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga studio and sauna.

The focus on first home buyers resonated with purchaser Holly Humphreys, who said she and her boyfriend spent more than a year searching for their first property before shifting their attention from houses to apartments.

"We fell in love with the first house we bid on and got our hopes up, but after repeated knockbacks we learned not to get too attached," Humphreys said.

"We offered at the high end of price guides, but sales kept going even higher. That's where we really struggled and we needed to re-evaluate our budget and our expectations. Standalone houses were off the table, and we pivoted to apartments and townhouses."

Humphreys said it was encouraging to see developers recognising the growing demand from first home buyers.

"There's a growing number of young buyers looking to enter the market earlier because they understand that getting in now can make a real difference as prices continue to rise," she said.

"It's fantastic to see a developer recognise this and then actively take measures to deliver an apartment with us in mind."

Solis is the first development planned within the second stage of the Harbour Shores masterplan, with early works expected to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land targets first home buyers at latest Harbour Shores release, Solis

Luxury apartment developer Abadeen has recorded $19.25 million in apartment sales across two of its Lower North Shore developments in the lead-up to the end of the financial year, headlined by the sale of a $6.75 million penthouse at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-5-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO in Crows Nest.</a>

The transactions also included the sale of a newly completed three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences in Cremorne</a> for $6.35 million, with the residence selling shortly after the project's first public inspections following completion.

The sales come as completed, owner-occupier-focused apartments continue to attract strong demand across Sydney's Lower North Shore, particularly from buyers looking for certainty and immediate occupancy.

The penthouse at KOYO spans 491 sqm across a single level and was designed by architect Koichi Takada. The development is one of Abadeen's flagship boutique projects in Crows Nest.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=370093]

Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said buyer activity lifted noticeably in the lead-up to the end of the financial year.

"We saw a clear increase in enquiry levels, inspection numbers and buyer engagement across our completed projects leading into the end of the financial year," Brown said.

"Buyers have become far more decisive over the past six months. The combination of improving confidence, limited supply and the ability to physically inspect completed residences is creating strong competition for premium apartments in the best locations."

Brown says the&nbsp;response to Park Residences following completion has been particularly strong.

"Buyers want certainty and are responding positively to the opportunity to walk through a finished product, inspect the quality firsthand and move in immediately," Brown suggested.

"Projects such as Park Residences and KOYO demonstrate that when the product is exceptional and the location is irreplaceable, buyers are prepared to act quickly."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=370116]

Abadeen CEO Joe Tack said quality continued to differentiate projects in the current market.

"Today's buyers are incredibly discerning," Tack said.

"They are seeking larger floorplans, premium finishes, walkability, lifestyle amenity and confidence in the developer delivering the project. Well-designed boutique developments continue to outperform because they offer something genuinely difficult to replace.

"The enquiry we are seeing across our completed and recently completed Lower North Shore portfolio is very encouraging, and we expect this momentum to continue into spring."

The sales follow increased enquiry across Abadeen's Lower North Shore portfolio which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/northcote-collective-naremburn-2-northcote-street-naremburn-nsw-2065">Northcote Collective in Naremburn</a> which also completed recently.

KOYO penthouse headlines Abadeen's $19.25 million EOFY sales flurry

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?

Luxury developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> has achieved a new Victorian benchmark for an off-the-plan apartment, with the sale of two penthouses at its ultra-exclusive Maison Savoy development in Brighton.

The two penthouses achieved a combined sale rate of $49,926 per sqm. Both transactions eclipsed the previous identified Victorian off-the-plan price-per-square-metre benchmark, set by the 449 sqm apartment at Como Toorak, which sold at $46,659 per sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366473]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maison-savoy-brighton-150-esplanade-brighton-vic-3186">Maison Savoy</a>, Lowe Living's redevelopment of the former Brighton Savoy Hotel on absolute beachfront land at 150 The Esplanade, Brighton, has gained significant momentum since launching just eight weeks ago. Around 30 per cent of the project's 19 residences have already been secured, generating approximately $45 million in sales.

"Securing two of the three penthouse sales at this stage, within eight weeks of launching to market speaks to the confidence our clients place in Lowe Living," Lowe Living co-founder Emma Lowe said.

"They know we'll be with them through every stage of the journey, and that assurance is something we've worked hard to earn and never take for granted."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366474]

Lowe said Maison Savoy was conceived as a genuine alternative to a prestige Brighton home, combining house-scale proportions with the convenience, security and lock-up-and-leave appeal of apartment living.

Lowe Living co-founder Tim Lowe said the early sales success demonstrated the resilience of Melbourne's prestige market and highlighted the growing demand for house-sized apartments among ultra-high-net-worth buyers.

"The Melbourne market has definitely been tested in recent years, with interest rates and global economic factors all creating a period of uncertainty across the real estate sector. The sales success at Maison Savoy however demonstrates that confidence remains exceptionally strong at the top end of the market.

"The prestige market is being driven by long-term lifestyle decisions rather than short-term market sentiment, which continues to create a level of certainty that befits an absolute beachfront property in a blue-chip location like Brighton.

"Brighton's fundamentals remain among the strongest in Melbourne, with limited new supply, enduring demand from an overwhelmingly local owner-occupier market, and a rare combination of beachfront amenity and proximity to the CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=374378]

According to Cotality, Brighton remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held prestige suburbs, with an average ownership tenure of 15.3 years for houses and 12.3 years for units, while more than 73 per cent of homes are owner-occupied.

Tim Lowe said selling two of the project's three penthouses so early in the campaign was an uncommon result.

"This sales result is a reflection of quality and understanding the local market. It's incredibly rare to transact the penthouses so early in a sales campaign in any project so to have sold two of the three penthouses at Maison Savoy so soon after launch, all in-house without any external sales agency appointed, is reflective of our careful consideration of our buyers' needs and lifestyle.

"This is knowledge that is accumulated not just from data and demographic analysis, but via a deeply embedded understanding of how this type of buyer wants to live and feel in their home. We pride ourselves on getting to know our clients personally, and over the last 10 years we have been able to refine our product offering by talking one-on-one with our clients about their design and floorplan preferences.

"Being a fully integrated developer-builder with an in-house design and sales team allows us to lead every part of the process and ensure the highest quality of product and service at every touchpoint. It's a really important part of our DNA and the recent sales success at Maison Savoy indicates that our clients and purchasers are resonating with this point of difference.

"It reinforces that demand remains strong for thoughtfully designed residences that offer rarity, lifestyle and long-term value in tightly held locations, which ultimately validates Maison Savoy's positioning as creating a new benchmark for house-scale, wellness-led apartment living on Brighton's beachfront."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366480]

The residences at Maison Savoy start from 295 sqm, with most enjoying uninterrupted views across Port Phillip Bay. The project sits moments from the Brighton Bathing Boxes, Royal Brighton Yacht Club, Middle Brighton Baths and Church Street's retail and dining precinct.

A key feature of the development is its private residents-only bathhouse, curated by the founder of Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse and modelled on traditional European bathing rituals and the award-winning Sorrento bathhouse.

The wellness offering includes a hydrotherapy pool, salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, foot activation zone and a Vichy rainfall bed, one of only a handful in Australia. Residents will also have access to a Technogym studio, lounge spaces and a dedicated concierge service offering everything from morning coffee delivery and restaurant bookings to dry cleaning and home coordination.

"Wellness-led design has become a defining factor for luxury buyers," Emma Lowe said.

"Purchasers increasingly value homes that enhance wellbeing through thoughtful design, private amenity, privacy and liveability."

The penthouse purchasers are now undertaking a bespoke customisation process curated personally by architect Pete Kennon and the Lowe Living team, one of the developer's signature service offerings.

Construction on the $160 million transformation of the former Brighton Savoy Hotel site commenced last month, with completion expected in early 2028. The project has secured funding from NAB alongside development partner Monark.

Just one penthouse remains available, along with a limited number of two and three-bedroom residences starting from $3.75 million.

Lowe Living currently has eight projects on the market across Melbourne and recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, having grown a $1 billion development pipeline alongside a $350 million construction pipeline.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140818]

Lowe Living set new Melbourne off the plan apartment record

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Matt and Jane Martino who were 2004 contestants on the reality television show The Block have listed their ultra-modern Armadale family project home with $1.995 million hopes through Marshall White agent James McCormack.

The three-bedroom <a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/5567013/" target="_blank">Fetherston Street</a> residence (pictured below) comes with floor-to-ceiling windows onto the paved courtyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26734]

Matt Martino has <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://martinogroup.com.au/developments/21" target="_blank">his own development firm </a>as he was a restaurant manager during the series. The firm has undertaken projects in Glen Iris and Richmond.

<img alt="martinojune14one" height="380" src="/images/stories/2013/06/martinojune14one.jpg" width="470">

Above: Matt Martino's sketch of the Fetherston Street house.

The Fetherston Street block cost $775,000 in 2011.

The 78 Valley Parade, Glen Iris property (pictured below) sold for $1.72 million in early 2012. It was described as modern family home without being cold and minimalist.

<img alt="gleniris" height="292" src="/images/stories/2013/06/gleniris.jpg" width="470">

The 32 to 34 Jubilee Place, Richmond industrial home had raw concrete walls and exposed steel beams soaring up three levels.

The couple walked away from their Block experience all but empty-handed when their top floor apartment only just met the $795,000 reserve.

They were however compensated with the car they won after being named the most popular couple on the Channel Nine reality show in a viewer poll.

They got married while filming the second series of the Block at Manly in Sydney.

<img alt="trophyhomesstrapone" height="57" src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" width="470">
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Matt and Jane from The Block list their $1,995 million Armadale project home

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The trendy inner city suburb of South Yarra, just four kilometres south east of the Melbourne CBD, was the top performing Melbourne suburb in 2012, according to the latest Victorian Property Sales report prepared by the office of Victorian valuer-general Robert Marsh.
It led a strong but patchy recovery in the Melbourne property market in the final quarter of the year, with Metropolitan Melbourne sales statistics show an increase of 4.8% for median house prices to $495,000 following a 1.6% decrease in the September quarter.
South Yarra, home to the glitzy shopping strips of Chapel Street and Toorak Road, registered a 19.9% increase in its median house for the December 2012 quarter compared with the previous corresponding period.
The South Yarra median house price increased from $1,037,500 in the December quarter of 2011 to $1,243,500 in the December quarter of 2012 with 158 sales recorded over 2012.
Over the December quarter the South Yarra median house price increased by 25.6% from 36 sales.
Other inner city suburbs to record strong annual quarter-on-quarter gains were Malvern (up 10.8%), Footscray (10%) and Fitzroy North.
However, there were also significant corrections in some prominent inner city suburbs with Toorak, Melbourne's most expensive suburb, recording a 15.9% annual correction with its median house price falling from $2.68 million from $2.26 million with 113 sales recorded over 2012.
There were also an 11.5% decline in St. Kilda (103 sales) and an 11.3% decline in South Melbourne (105 sales).
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“The data does not indicate the general location of the 4.8% increase in metropolitan Melbourne housing values,” says Marsh.
“It does indicate the need for data analysts to undertake their own detailed research,” he added.
However, the overall trend was for an increasing number of suburbs to record increases in their median house prices.
“It has generally been observed that there are fewer suburbs showing a decrease in median house price in the December 2012 quarter compared to the September 2012 quarter,” says Marsh.
The December quarter figures show that 134 metropolitan suburbs with 10 or more sales showed a decrease in median house price for this quarter, compared to 182 suburbs in the September 2012 quarter.
In addition, 77 metropolitan suburbs with 10 or more sales in both of the last two quarters shifted from showing a median price increase for the September 2012 quarter to a median price decrease for the December 2012 quarter compared with 112 metropolitan suburbs shifting from an increase in the June 2012 quarter to a decrease in the September 2012 quarter.
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In the Western suburbs, the strongest annual gains were in Altona (up 3.4%) and Derrimut (2.6%) but with steep falls in Keilor East (-9.5%) and Sunshine (-5.8%).
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In the outer-western suburbs,  Taylors Hill house prices lifted 12.6% followed by Hillside up 9.1%. However Werribee median house prices fell 6.6% over 2012 and by 4.4% in Tarneit.
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In the outer-eastern suburbs, Heathmont recorded a 6.8% rise, but Wantirna prices fell 6.9%.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

South Yarra shines with 19.9% annual rise as part of patchy Melbourne median house prices recovery: Victoria valuer-general report

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A globe trotting family has listed their four-bedroom home in Brighton for $2.65 million in a plan to move closer to the Melbourne CBD.
Located on Downes Avenue, the 927-square-metre property sits opposite the Kamesburgh Gardens. 
The home features two reception rooms, a separate bar room, four bathrooms and floor to ceiling glass doors lead to an outdoor terrace.
A pool house with a kitchen, sauna and bathroom accompanies the outdoor heated pool.
The property was purchased in July 2007 for $2.5 million.
Vendor Zac Rosenberg works in the bank industry and met his wife in Singapore.
They have since lived in London, Tokyo, Singapore and Hong Kong and have three children.
The home was rented out for $1,800 a week during 2011 before the family returned back to Melbourne in 2012.
The property is listed through Stewart Lopez and Bert Geraerts of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/16-downes-avenue-brighton">Kay and Burton</a> after it had been listed for June 1 auction.
Initial price expectations were $2.4 million.
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Four-bedroom home in Brighton seeks $2.65 million

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A Romanesque Revival former aged care facility in Kew has been listed for sale with a price guide of $4 million-plus.
Located on the corner of Fellows and Barry Street, Fairholme, also known as Hallel was built in 1889 for local solicitor Edward Smart by Reed, Henderson and Smart architects.
It was added to in circa 1900 by C Gordon McCrae and features a wrap around Edwardian verandah, ornate ceilings, restored cornices and timber paneling.
The property was most recently known as the Gracecourt Hostel aged care facility, featuring 27 rooms and 24 ensuites across 2,185 square metres.
Classified by the National Trust, Fairholme offers the opportunity to be restored into a family home or to continue as an aged care facility, subject to council approval.
Listing agent Robert Fletcher says there has been a lot of interest, particularly from buyers wanting to renovate and extend the home and some wanting to utilise some of the existing accommodation.
Fairholme is listed through <a target="_blank" href="https://fletchers.net.au/3466698/20-Fellows-Street-Kew">Robert Fletcher and Nick Fletcher of Fletchers Realty</a>, with expression of interest closing June 19.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Kew</a> is $1,360,000 according to RP Data.
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Gracecourt Hostel, aka Fairholme and Hallel, in Kew trophy home in the making listing

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The Geelong economy and property market have again been cast into the spotlight following concerns about the number of jobs retailer Target will cut.
Around 1,000 people are employed by Target at its Geelong office.
No announcement has yet been made about how man jobs will be cut, but the retailer has confirmed Geelong jobs will be lost. The cuts were anticipated as part of a company review after Target owner Wesfarmers revealed an earnings downgrade for the discount retailer for the 2013 financial year.
It follows Ford Australia’s announcement last month that it would close its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/first-ansett-collapse-now-ford-plant-closure-threatens-broadmeadows-property-market-ford-fordaustralia/2013052361599">Geelong production plant in 2016</a> with the loss of around 500 jobs.
There is also uncertainty around the future of workers at Shell’s Geelong refinery. The enterprise employs around 450 people as well as contractors.
Shell Australia announcing in April that it would seek to sell the refinery by the end of 2014 as part of its efforts to dispose of smaller, less profitable refineries. Should a buyer not be found Shell may be forced to close the refinery. Converting the refinery to an import terminal has also been muted.
A further 500 jobs at Alcoa's unprofitable Point Henry aluminium smelter with the American-owned enterprise considering cuts worldwide. Alcoa had planned to shut the smelter down last year before receiving a $40 million bail out from the Victorian and Federal governments.
The potential loss of more than 2,00 jobs (more when contractors and affiliated employment are factored in) has been tempered by news that Geelong has been chosen as the headquarters of the new DisabilityCare agency for the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), which will employ around 300 people plus another 150 in the regional office.
The NDIS will commence in the Barwon area on July 1 with the Victorian government to invest more than $300 million over the first three years of the scheme.
Victorian premier Dennis Napthine says the agency will be located in Geelong's CBD but has not been able to guarantee all jobs will go to local workers.
Local estate agents Property Observer has spoken to emphasise that Geelong is now a far more diversified economy then its manufacturing-heavy tradition
Nick Lord, an estate agent from Maxwell Collins, anticipates a limited impact from the closure of the Ford plant.
He says Geelong has grown to have strong employment in areas such as education and health “to name just a few”.
He says the city has changed over the recent years with people “continuing to commute to Melbourne for work whilst enjoying the Geelong lifestyle”.
Hotspotting.com.au’s Terry Ryder –a big believer in the potential of regional city property markets for growth, provided they have diversified economies - says new ventures in the pipeline will counter-balance the economic impact of the closure of Ford and other potential job losses in Geelong.
These include the Regional Rail Link and the plan to make Avalon the second international airport for Melbourne.
Ryder says Geelong will continue to have a “strong future as an affordable lifestyle alternative to Melbourne, with improving transport links to the City”.
However, some estate agents have warned the job cuts will impact on the sentiment of homeowners, buyers and investors.
Peter Nell from Stockdale &amp; Leggo Geelong says the Ford announcement  would affect the confidence of all types of purchasers.
"The concerns are obviously employment, as Shell, Alcoa and now Ford have all turning their backs on this town," he says.
But, he believes Geelong has so much to offer that he is sure "we will figure a way to create different forms of employment".
"But we need to do something now, not in 2016," he says.
The April 2013 Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) update on Geelong, the Surf Coast and Queenscliff has house prices up 2.6% to $390,000 over the year to April, but unit prices down by 4.7% to $305,000 over the same 12 month period.
The figures are based on properties sold in the previous 12 months, updated on a rolling monthly basis.
REIV spokesperson Robert Larocca says housing is more affordable in Geelong and it has a very good appeal due to the more country feel and access to the bay, but adds that the health of any property market is “directly linked to the health of the economy”.
“As a result if the closure of Ford leads to reduced economic growth and less employment then it will have a negative impact on the market. It really depends on the region finding a replacement for the economic activity provided by Ford and its suppliers. Thankfully there is a strong and resilient local community,” he says.
To mitigate the impact of the Ford closure and other job losses, there are already state and federal government initiatives underway.
Victorian premier Denis Napthine announced last month that he will lead a special ‘Premier’s Ford Taskforce’ aimed at generate new job opportunities for workers and communities affected by the Ford announcement.
Napthine says the taskforce will take action to diversify economies, build confidence and encourage investment in Geelong and the Northern Metropolitan area of Melbourne.
One of its first initiatives is a Jobs Summit taking place in Geelong on June 19 with the aim of identifying ways to further diversify the Geelong economy.
The Federal government has also committed to providing an extra $15 million to the $52 million joint Commonwealth and State Government jobs package for Geelong.
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Target jobs uncertainty throws spotlight back on Geelong property market

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The Mohonga mansion in South Yarra has been sold, but without price disclosure. It was the longtime home of the late Peter Rand, the highly eccentric millionaire property investor.
Court hearings in the Victorian Supreme Court were underway earlier this year regarding the estate, the latest chapter in the litigious history of the estate of Peter Thomas Evan Rand, now in its 15th year. He was the son of the late Sir Thomas Rand and <a href="/news/vic/mohonga-south-yarra-underbelly-trophy-home-sells">the South Yarra property's name</a> is derived from pastoralist relative, Robert Rand's Mohonga station in regional NSW.
Peter Rand owned and operated brothels and court records suggest he preferred to minimise, even avoid, his obligations to pay tax.
Officially Rand left an estate declared in the probate application at $19 million, comprising mostly Victorian real estate.
The seven-bedroom Domain Road property built in the 1920s by architect Irwin Stephenson was the city abode - owned by Rand since the 1960s.
Situated on 1,058 square metres, the property features five bathrooms, two kitchens, several living rooms and an upstairs terrace with views to Richmond.
In 1993, Rand made the news by paying almost $700,00 for the property next door to cut down a tree that was blocking his own house’s view.
The South Yarra property was listed through Carla Fetter of <a href="https://www.jelliscraigbm.com.au/property/SOUTH-YARRA-268-&amp;-268B-Domain-Road/5478299/#.Ua6BauBAt6o" target="_blank">Jellis Craig Bennison Mackinnon Armadale.</a>
Mohonga was part of a $50 million property portfolio which also included the Sisters estate in Sorrento which sold to the Shelmerdine family for $19 million in 2008.
There was an older-style 42 apartment complex that fetched $11 million on Power Street, Hawthorn in 2008.
Numerous specific devises and bequests were made by the will with the residue held on trust principally for, as to income for life, Douglas Claiborne and Michael Aquilina, each of whom had an intimate personal relationship with Rand.
Mr Aquilina lived with Rand in South Yarra. Mr Claiborne, who abused drugs and could not responsibly look after money and property, then lived in Hawaii, according to a 2012 court judgement by Justice Dixon after issues arose with apartments in Hawaii and Thailand.
Rand outlaid $1.189 million purchasing the five Hawaiian apartments. Three of these apartments were in Aloha Towers, the other apartments were in Aloha Lani and at 444 Nahua Street, Honolulu. Rand also acquired two condominiums in the Jomthien Complex Condotel in Thailand.
Mark "Chopper" Read in his autobiography wrote that if Melbourne ever had a true Mr Big of crime, of vice at any rate, then Peter Rand deserved the championship belt. He wrote somewhat colourfully that Mohonga was <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?id=NjWgeUz7E5gC&amp;pg=PT1882&amp;lpg=PT1882&amp;dq=chopper+read+peter+the+poof+rand&amp;source=bl&amp;ots=zoyxth7Nzw&amp;sig=A2yO_ign3Fa_o-1Uzfs1dahFtg0&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ei=ky-xUZ3dFu-ViQeD84GgDA&amp;ved=0CCoQ6AEwAA" target="_blank">"fortress like." </a>
Title Tattle reckons standby for an Underbelly mini series.
Interestingly the patsoralist Robert Rand was a character too. Many stories are told of his ability to handle cattle, and it is said on one occasion he astonished drovers who came to take delivery of a mob of fat cattle by insisting on doing the cutting-out himself at the various cattle camps, and he did it without either stockwhip or dog, merely walking his horse through the mob.
Then there was a report that an alleged son of the Robert Rand made a claim on "the great property of the deceased" in 1895.
Rand had resided at Mohonga in the Urana district for about 46 years having taken up the property in 1849. Rand, who had landed in the colonies from Hadleigh, Suffolk as a mere boy, was known at Albury as a bacholor. He died aged 75 years intestate, the only attempt at a will in 1852, but never signed. The reported total value which included Mohonga and Urangeliue stations was about £500,000. The claimant stated the deceased had married before leaving England that he separated from his wife, but there was issue by the marriage.
But Australian News suggested that the claim he was married before arriving in Australia was the height of absurdity. And nor did the deceased ever return to England after coming to Australia. Too busy building his sheep numbers up to 290,000 presumably.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" alt="trophyhomesstrapone" width="470" height="57">
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Mohonga, South Yarra "Underbelly" trophy home sells

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A double-fronted Edwardian residence in Melbourne’s bayside suburb Middle Park was last week’s most expensive sale, selling at auction for $3.93 million, according to RP Data.
James Buyers Advocates says there was a large crowd of 180 at the June 2 auction.
Situated on 456 square metres, the home (pictured below) features four bedrooms, two baths and a double-storey extension.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june5middlepark]}
Guy Angwin of James Buyer Advocates says although recently undergoing renovation, the property needed a rebuild to turn it into a modern floor plan.
The buyer's advocate Richard Kerr offered $3,050,000 which setting off some 60 subsequent bids between four bidders. At $3,550,000 the Middle Park property was announced as on the market.
It was knocked to the first bidder, an owner-occupier, at $3,930,000.
The property was listed through Oliver Bruce and Nicholas Hoo of Marshall White.
Its previous sale prices included $842,500 in 1999 and $621,000 in 1997.
The median house price for <a target="_blank" href="/news">Middle Park</a> is $1,371,000, according to RP Data.
The top ten most expensive sales:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/63_nimmo_street_middle_park_vic_3206/11777852">63 Nimmo Street, Middle Park, VIC, 3206</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 2 by Marshall White &amp; Co for $3.93 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/20_weeroona_avenue_woollahra_nsw_2025/7743787">20 Weeroona Avenue, Woollahra, NSW, 2025</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on May 29 by Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay for $3.3 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4_cheyne_walk_castlecrag_nsw_2068/1789553">4 Cheyne Walk, Castlecrag, NSW, 2068</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 1 by L J Hooker Castlecrag for $3.27 million. <a target="_blank" href="/news">It was unrenovated</a>.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/11/56a_pirrama_road_pyrmont_nsw_2009/14515647">11/56A Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, NSW, 2009</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on June 1 by Feldi Property Agents for $2.9 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/312_albert_road_south_melbourne_vic_3205/13094171">312 Albert Road, South Melbourne, VIC, 3205</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 1 by Hocking Stuart Albert Park for $2.855 million. It had last sold at $2.2 million in 2007.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/37_bent_street_paddington_nsw_2021/5261867">37 Bent Street, Paddington, NSW, 2021</a>, three-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on June 1 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.4 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/33_suffolk_avenue_collaroy_nsw_2097/1891835">33 Suffolk Avenue, Collaroy, NSW, 2097</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 1 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.4 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/383_esplanade_henley_beach_sa_5022/9783975">383 Esplanade, Henley Beach, SA, 5022</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on June 1 by Ray White Henley Beach for $2.385 million 
<a target="_self" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/113/19_hickson_road_dawes_point_nsw_2000/7252224">113/19 Hickson Road, Sydney, NSW, 2000</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on May 28 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.38 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4b_duke_street_balmain_east_nsw_2041/1261722">4B Duke Street, Balmain East, NSW, 2041</a>, three-bedroom house, sold on May 29 by Bresicwhitney Estate Agents Darlinghurst for $2.2 million
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Double-fronted Middle Park Edwardian residence fetches $3.93 million: RP Data

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A new Martin Friedrich-designed townhouse in South Yarra has been listed for sale with a price guide of $2.25 million-plus.
The Cliff Street residence features four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Situated near the Chapel Street retail strip, the home boasts European oak flooring, a gourmet marble Miele kitchen and a rooftop terrace.
The property also features a multi-coloured outdoor pool with a water feature.
The 166-square-metre allotment housed a duplex when bought in September 2009 for $680,000. The duplex was later half demolished.
The remaining half of the duplex was incorporated into the new residence, which required an extra floor to be added underground.
The townhouse took more than two years to build.
The home is being sold via expressions of interest closing June 18 through Gary Ormrod and Darren Lewenberg of <a target="_blank" href="https://kayburton.com.au/property/51-cliff-street-south-yarra">Kay and Burton South Yarra.</a>
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">South Yarra</a> is $954,550, according to RP Data.
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New Martin Friedrich-designed South Yarra townhouse goes to market for $2.25 million-plus

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Spanning four levels, a Hill Street, Toorak residence is on the market with a price guide over $7 million.
The property was designed by architect Nicholas Day, with help from vendor and property developer Gaby Tomkin.
Set within Paul Bangay landscaped gardens, the home has five bedrooms and five bathrooms.
There's a lift to all levels.
The basement includes a 1,500 wine bottle cellar and a gold class replica theatre, while level four features a rooftop entertainer’s terrace.
The home also features a Carrera marble kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, a table tennis recreation room, gymnasium and a pool.
The property is being sold via expression of interest closing June 17 through Darren Lewenberg and Ross Savas of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/17-hill-street-toorak">Kay and Burton South Yarra</a>.
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Nicholas Day-designed Toorak home seeks $7 million-plus

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Grant Copley, managing director of footy card seller Select Australia, has put his South Yarra home up for auction.
It has been listed for June 22 auction by James McCormack and Dean Gilbert at Marshall White.
The house was bought from the current Sydney Swans coach John Longmire in 2001. 
The double-fronted Victorian on Argo Street had been pitched to potential buyers at $650,000-plus by Marshall White with Longmire securing $865,000.
It had traded at $410,000 in 1997.
Fairfax Media reported it was expected to fetch $1.1 million at its June 2013 auction.
The 291 square metre property features three bedrooms, a sitting room or study with open fireplace and one bathroom.  The house also has a paved courtyard with covered BBQ terrace and secure off street parking.
The former North Melbourne Roos stalwart John Longmire was a Kangaroos player of 12 years and 201 games between 1988 and 1999.
He then had two years off from football in the media before taking up an assistant coaching job at the Swans given his connection with Rodney Eade who was an assistant coach of North Melbourne during the early 1990s.
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