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>.

Joel Robinson

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

The City of Sydney has approved plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/billbergia">Billbergia Group</a> and Metrics Credit Partners’ $3.5 billion Castlereagh Place project in the heart of the Sydney CBD

The towers will be among the tallest in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/sydney-nsw-2000">Sydney</a>'s CBD, with more floors than any other residential tower in the city.&nbsp;

The 6,000 sqm site was acquired by the joint venture partners in 2024. It is the largest amalgamated land parcel in the Sydney CBD and comprises eight individual sites fronting Castlereagh, Pitt and Liverpool Streets.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castlereagh-place-sydney-324-348-pitt-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Castlereagh Place</a> will transform an underutilised city block into a landmark mixed-use destination, anchored by two 82-storey towers comprising 607 luxury residences above an 8-level podium housing a 209-room luxury hotel. A 1,000 square metre civic park on ground level features a curated mix of food, beverage and retail.

The plans have been refined over the past year to rebalance the residential and hotel offering, and reconfigure the retail footprint to create a stronger, more dynamic dining experience.

A three-level flagship building on the prominent corner of Pitt and Liverpool Streets will be the gateway to the Castlereagh Place lifestyle precinct. Set to become a Sydney icon, the building is capable of housing multiple hospitality venues.

“Castlereagh Place is designed to be the City's next great urban oasis - an energetic mixed-use precinct that pulses with life, day and night,"&nbsp;said Joseph Kinsella, Group Director of Billbergia.

"It will bring the vibrancy of places like Barangaroo and Darling Quarter into a more accessible, central destination at the very heart of Sydney."

Kinsella said the project will build on&nbsp;Sydney’s growing laneway culture with the City’s largest network of new activated lanes - an expanded, next-generation take on precincts like Angel Place, Palings Lane and Ash Street in Wynyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134477 project_image_fid=374401]

Castlereagh Place has been designed by architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">fjcstudio</a> in collaboration with Trias Studio, Aileen Sage and Polly Harbison Design, joint winners of an international design competition in 2018.&nbsp;

Signature design elements from the original scheme remain unchanged, while the public domain has been significantly enhanced, delivering 60 per cent more open-to-sky space.

Pedestrian access will also be enhanced through new laneways linking Pitt, Liverpool and Castlereagh Streets, drawing people into a new civic park with outdoor seating, landscaping and integrated public art.

With activated laneways supported by strong hospitality offerings, Castlereagh Place is tipped to become a vibrant new dining destination in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.

It marks the largest undertaking to date for the Billbergia and Metrics Credit Partners partnership. Together they are developing other underutilised Sydney sites into mixed-use precincts, including the $2.2 billion Concord Central and the $1.3 billion Chatswood Grand Residences.

Metrics Managing Partner and Group CEO Andrew Lockhart said Castlereagh Place is a landmark project that will redefine Sydney’s skyline.

"As the tallest residential high-rise development, the revitalised site will offer panoramic views across the CBD and surrounds. We are excited to partner with Billbergia to reinvigorate an underutilised site and create a sophisticated and contemporary mixed-use offering situated in the heart of Sydney.”

Total apartments within the towers have increased to 607 dwellings, with a focus on larger floorplans. Aligned to growing market demand, Castlereagh Place now comprises 299 three-plus-bedroom apartments, 198 two-bedroom units and 110 one-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134477 project_image_fid=374402]

Resident amenities will include an exclusive residents club containing a gym, rooftop pool, dining rooms, co-working spaces, library, golf simulator, games room, cinema room, and access to an exclusive concierge service. There will be around 500 basement car spaces below the towers.

The development will also include a state-of-the-art wellness centre, set to feature a bathhouse with magnesium pools, hot/cold plunge pools and premium amenities.

&nbsp;

According to fjcstudio, the towers will feature distinctive yet elegant architectural design reflecting Sydney’s geometry and urban character, with a network of through-site links and intimate public spaces activating the streetscape.

"Castlereagh Place is a city-making project of significant scale and ambition," said Richard Francis-Jones, Design Director at fjcstudio.

"It will create a rich urban complex of public open spaces, landscaped gardens, and vibrant laneways. Defining these new public spaces and the important streetscape of Castlereagh Street is a sequence of fine-grained, diverse retail and hotel architecture designed in collaboration with Aileen Sage, Polly Harbison Design and Trias.

“Rising above the tree-lined, human-scale streetscape are two slender residential towers that will transform the city skyline and look towards the Harbour, Hyde Park, and the Royal Botanic Garden.”

Demolition and early construction works have commenced onsite at Castlereagh Place.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134477]

Billbergia, Metrics, approved for $3.5 billion Sydney skyscrapers

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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Villa Donati, the circa 1886 Richmond Hill residence designed by architect John Augustus Koch as his private home, has been listed for sale.
Koch had been the mayor of Richmond in 1877.
Gayle Lamb, an academic at Deakin University, has extensively renovated the four-bedroom, four-bathroom Italianate house which comes with a two-storey studio at the rear of the property which she had built.
Expressions of interest closed mid-week on the Church Street offering through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/377-church-street-richmond">Chris Alcock of Kay &amp; Burton</a> who was seeking $2 million-plus buyers.
It operated as a bed and beakfast with Harper's Bazaar saying it was one of Australia's most decadent stays.
"Previously both an (Anglican) archbishop's residence and a massage parlour, (presumably at different times) it exudes style from its European café-esque breakfast room to the ornate marble-and-iron fireplaces in its luxurious bedrooms," the Harpers Bizarre 2010 edition advised.
"Filled with beautiful furniture, artwork and decorative items collected by the owners over many years of travelling, this opulent B&amp;B is clearly a labour of love," Harper's Bazaar noted.
Koch, born in Hamburg in 1845, migrated to Australia with his family in 1855. In 1873 he was appointed as architect to the City of Melbourne and in 1887 he was appointed architect for the City of Richmond. After he married Anna Puttmann, they had a family of six sons and three daughters. His fifth son, Bernard, carried on his practice after he retired in 1913, dieing in Hawthorn in 1928. 
His best known buildings are Labassa (originally called Ontario) (1889-1890) in Manor Grove, <a href="/news">Caulfield North</a> and Friesia (1887) at 23 Isabella Grove, <a href="/news">Hawthorn</a>. Most of his architctural work was in Hawthorn and <a href="/news">Richmond</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Villa Donati listed in Richmond Hill

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A circa-1900 double-storey brick Victorian terrace in South Yarra will go to auction this weekend with a price guide of $1.6 million-plus.
It is listed by general manager of GE Capital David Gelbak.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-south+yarra-112978239">The property on Wilson Street</a> was renovated by Williams Boag Architects. The home boasts four bedrooms and two baths and an Ilve and Smeg appointed kitchen with stone bench tops.
The main bedroom features a marble fireplace and French doors that open to a scenic verandah.
A landscaped courtyard surrounded by ivy-covered walls is accessed through large bi-folding doors.
With landscaping by Urban Edge Landscaping Architects, the property has been featured in many lifestyle magazines, including Outdoor Space Magazine.
Gelbak and his wife have lived in the property for eight years but are selling to move closer to their daughter's school in Hawthorn.
"We are still struggling with the concept of leaving <a target="_blank" href="/news">South Yarra</a>, we have been in the area for 13 years and just love the lifestyle the house provides and the way the indoor and outdoors integrate in the home," says Gelbak.
Gowan Stubbings and Mark Williams of Kay and Burton South Yarra have listed the Wilson Street property.
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

South Yarra terrace listed with $1.6 million-plus weekend hopes

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Thornbury has the highest auction clearance rate of all Melbourne suburbs so far this year, at 96.4%, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV).
Of the 28 auctions held in the suburb this year, 27 have sold.
There are 13 properties up for auction this weekend, according to <a href="https://realestate.com.au" target="_blank">realestate.com.au</a>.
A three-bedroom house on 443 hectares at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-thornbury-113141219" target="_blank">135 Clarendon Street</a> (pictured below) is being auctioned with a price guide of $700,000 to $750,000 by Jellis Craig agent Anthony Lapadula.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/thornburymarch19one.jpg" width="470" height="350" alt="thornburymarch19one">
According to RP Data the property had been listed for $680,000 to $730,000 before being revised up.
A three-bedroom house on 494 hectares at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-thornbury-113100463" target="_blank">89 Leinster Grove</a> (pictured below) has been listed for $730,000 to $780,000 by Hocking Stuart Northcote agent Sam Rigopoulos.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/thornburymarch19two.jpg" width="470" height="355" alt="thornburymarch19two">
The last sale price recorded by RP Data was the three-bedroom <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/VIC/Thornbury/?adid=2010274123" target="_blank">8 Keon Street</a> (pictured below) on 367 square metres, which sold at auction for $711,000 on March 9 through Harcourts Northcote agent John Bisignano.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/thornburymarch19three.jpg" width="470" height="288" alt="thornburymarch19three">
<a href="/news">Thornbury</a>, 7 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, is sandwiched between Northcote and Preston.
The suburb's median house price, currently $690,000, has fallen by 3.2% in the last year. The median asking rent for houses is $470 per week.
The median unit price is $379,000, down 0.4% over the last year. The median asking rent for units is $300 per week.
It has a population of 17,434, according to the 2011 census. The suburb has one train station, is connected to two tram lines and is serviced by two popular bike trails.
There are a number of bars and pubs along High Street, as well as restaurants and shops.
<a href="/news">Mill Park</a>, an outer Northern suburb, came in second with a clearance rate of 92%. So far in 2013, 25 auctions have taken place with 23 selling.
<a href="/news">Camberwell</a> came in third with a clearance rate of 90.7%, as 39 of the 43 auctions this year sold.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="133">
<col width="90">
<col width="103">
<col width="101">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17" width="133">Suburb</td>
<td width="90">Total Auction</td>
<td width="103">Sold at auction</td>
<td width="101">Clearance rate</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">THORNBURY</a></td>
<td align="right">28</td>
<td align="right">27</td>
<td align="right">96.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">MILL PARK</a></td>
<td align="right">25</td>
<td align="right">23</td>
<td align="right">92.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">CAMBERWELL</a></td>
<td align="right">43</td>
<td align="right">39</td>
<td align="right">90.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">SURREY HILLS</a></td>
<td align="right">20</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">90.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">RICHMOND</a></td>
<td align="right">69</td>
<td align="right">60</td>
<td align="right">87.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">HAWTHORN EAST</a></td>
<td align="right">36</td>
<td align="right">31</td>
<td align="right">86.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">ALBERT PARK</a></td>
<td align="right">20</td>
<td align="right">17</td>
<td align="right">85.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">GLEN WAVERLEY</a></td>
<td align="right">38</td>
<td align="right">32</td>
<td align="right">84.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">ST KILDA EAST</a></td>
<td align="right">25</td>
<td align="right">21</td>
<td align="right">84.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">BRUNSWICK</a></td>
<td align="right">31</td>
<td align="right">26</td>
<td align="right">83.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">ELSTERNWICK</a></td>
<td align="right">23</td>
<td align="right">19</td>
<td align="right">82.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr height="17">
<td height="17"><a target="_blank" href="/news">COBURG</a></td>
<td align="right">40</td>
<td align="right">33</td>
<td align="right">82.50%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Source: REIV
Note: this table covers suburbs which had 20 or more auctions between 01/01/13 and 16/03/13.
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Thornbury tops list of Melbourne suburbs with highest clearance rates

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Victorian planning minister Matthew Guy has approved plans to build the tallest highrise in the southern hemisphere, despite concerns it will cast a shadow over the Shrine of Remembrance.
Australia 108, a proposed 108-storey apartment and hotel tower, came under fire from Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle who said it could overshadow the Shrine of Remembrance and that at 388 metres it exceeded the city council's height limits.
The tower will be 91 metres higher that the Eureka tower.
Guy announced on Twitter this morning that he had approved the $600 million development saying he had no objection from the Shrine trustees and that it would provide hundreds of jobs while taking pressure off existing suburbs.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/guymarch18one1.jpg" width="470" height="260" alt="guymarch18one1">
Architects Fender Katsalidis, who designed the nearby Eureka Tower, are behind the Australia 108 project, which would be the world's 18th tallest building at 70 Southbank Boulevard.
According to The Age, the project is backed by private investors Nonda Katsalidis, Benni Aroni, Adrian Valmorbida, Ian Fayman, Gary Caulfield and Mark Hopkinson.
Apartments in the building start at $425,00 for a 1 bedroom unit, $575,00 for a two bedroom and $775,00 for a three bedroom. There will be 664 apartments.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/guymarch18two.jpg" width="400" height="831" alt="guymarch18two">
The building will feature a six star hotel with 288 rooms from levels 83 to 101 with two restaurants and two bars which will feature glass floors looking straight down to the ground.
The building will include landscaped terraces above the carpark, a pool and gym, a theatre seating up to 40 people, a function room, a library, a business centre and a fresh food market and a café.
Work on the project is due to start later this year.
In a press release issued later, Guy said the building will be an outstanding addition to the Melbourne skyline.
"I am proud to approve a tower that will define our city for many years to come and which I am sure will become as iconic a Melbourne landmark as Flinders Street Station or Federation Square," Guy writes. "The Australia 108 mixed-use tower will be an icon both visually and for those who will live in it, stay at its hotel, dine at the level 84 Sky Lounge or visit the level 108 Star Bar.
"Towers such as Australia 108 are consistent with the Coalition Government's drive to concentrate high-density development in defined areas and out of existing, quiet neighbourhoods. "Every apartment in this tower is one less apartment in an existing quiet neighbourhood."
Q1, in the Gold Coast is the current tallest building in the southern hemisphere at 323 metres, followed by the Eureka Tower in Melbourne at 265 metres, 120 Collins Street in Melbourne at 265 metres, 101 Collins Street in Melbourne at 260 metres and the Rialto Towers in Melbourne at 251 metres.
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Tallest building in southern hemisphere approved for Melbourne

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The owners of Victoria’s oldest homestead, Emu Bottom at Sunbury, are seeking long-term tenants for the heritage-listed Georgian cottage that sits on 24 hectares.
It was 1968 when Hedley Elliott and his wife Jan bought the property, which was then on the distant outskirts of Melbourne, for $120,000 from the Stringer family. They are the fifth owners of the homestead.
At the time they purchased the property it had been called Holly Green – a name given by Harry Webb since the early 1900’s as it was his dairy cattle stud name.
The homestead has also had other names, originally called Emu Bottom by George Evans but renamed Emu Vale shortly after his death by his wife.
It was for a time named Invargargyll when it was owned by a Brigadier General Clark.
After purchasing the property, one year was spent doing restoration work with the help and advice of architects, John and Phyll Murphy and in early 1970, Emu Bottom Homestead was opened as a tourist attraction by the governor of Victoria, Sir Rohan Delacombe, operating for the period of 1970 – 1975 with about 90,000 visitors anually.
Although Emu Bottom Homestead no longer operates as a tourist attraction, the property hosts corporate events.
The story of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.emubottom.com.au/about_emu_bottom/contact.htm">Emu Bottom Homestead </a>began on August 30, 1835, when the schooner Enterprise sailed up Port Phillip Bay, with George Evans on board. After exploring the area, he chose to settle 40kms from the city in 1836 where he built the handsome stone building now known as Emu Bottom Homestead.
The Elliotts hope to see a major company “take it to its next level” by taking out a lease for up to 40 years, The Australian Financial Review reported.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.prh.com.au/pol/property/search.asp?f_propertyID=1973831&amp;xsl=2146&amp;f_st=1&amp;f_ct=&amp;f_ps=2">Expressions of interest close April 30 through Peter Hawkins at Pat Rice &amp; Hawkins</a>.
George Evans named his homestead 'Emu Bottom' because he had settled in the low lying ground of the valley well frequented by large flocks of emus.
At this time there were 5000 sheep and well as other live stock grazing  on the large parcel of land on which George Evans had claimed as his 'run'.
Towards the end of the 1850s, Evans purchased the Royal Oak in Queen Street, Melbourne, when his spacious squattage was reduced in size to 640 acres. He became licensee of the hotel from 1861-1865 and he lived next door until his death in 1876.
The <a href="/news">Sunbury</a> property comes with a 1854 woolshed that was relocated in 1970 from a property called Runnymede owned by the Laidlaws at Sandford near Casterton in the Western District.
The homestead dining room was built as an addition to the homestead in 1989.
The slab hut came to this site in 1971 almost from Whroo, once a gold mine area.
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Emu Bottom, Sunbury seeks long-term corporate tenants

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A 1914-built Gothic Revival Church in Dunkeld, 250 kilometres west of Melbourne, has been listed for auction by the Uniting Church.
The Church is selling <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/Rural/VIC/Dunkeld/?adid=2010325412" target="_blank">the property</a> following moves to consolidate all church congregations in the town into a single premises.
<img alt="dunkeldmarch15one" height="348" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/dunkeldmarch15one.jpg">
The vendors are expecting about $125,000 for the property, consisting of two buildings, the church and a church hall, on two separate titles over 4,000 square metres.
The church is constructed from locally made bricks on a freestone base from Mount Abrupt in an early English Gothic revival style, according to heritage documents. It was designed by architects Clegg, Miller and Cain and built by E. H Patterson of Hamilton.
<img alt="dunkeldmarch15four" height="314" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/dunkeldmarch15four.jpg">
“The church has a rectangular plan of four bays divided by buttresses, no porch and no chancel or vestry,” heritage documents say.
“The gabled roof is pitched at 60 degrees and is clad with corrugated iron. Architectural details are elaborated in cement render, now painted white. The facade is symmetrical about the front door which is timber and double leaved. Above the door there is a large tripartite window under a simple hood mould. The side windows are treated as single lancets.”
The cypresses in front of the church date back to its construction.
The church replaced an earlier timber church on the property which was built in 1867.
<img alt="dunkeldmarch15three" height="314" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/dunkeldmarch15three.jpg">
It started life as a Wesleyan Church under the Hamilton circuit, later coming under the Penshurst Circuit and finally as the church increased in popularity it become the centre of the Dunkeld Circuit, according to heritage documents.
In 1902 it became a Methodist church and only became a Uniting Church in the late 1970s.
In 2002 a heritage survey found the church was in excellent condition and retained a high degree of integrity.
<img alt="dunkeldmarch15two" height="314" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/dunkeldmarch15two.jpg">
“Several additions and changes have been made to the interior of the church since its construction in 1914. These include the erection of an honour roll above the pulpit in 1919, which records the names of those who served and fell in World War One; changes to the lighting system from petrol lamps to electricity in 1939; carpeting the isles and the sanctuary; a communion table and the erection of a Latin Cross in 1959 above the pulpit, relocating the honour roll to the west wall,” heritage documents say.
It will be sold with all its internal architecture such as the pine lined flooring, timber lined ceilings and a series of historic leadlight windows but excluding its pews which the vendors will attempt to return to the families of the original donors.
The church hall, built at a later period, is currently used a Sunday school.
The buildings are connected to power, water and sewerage.
The <a target="_blank" href="/news">Dunkeld</a> church goes to auction on April 13 through agent Bart O’Sullivan.
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Dunkeld Uniting Church for auction with $125,000 hopes

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So the Melbourne market has started hot and the pressure is on to make a decision – and make it quick.
There’s a home! Buy it! Deal done – phew!
If that sounds like you, you might want to consider three key issues:
1) Were you born smart or were you born lucky?
2) Are all homes the same i.e. are all investments good?
3) What do you base your actions on?
In answer to the above, I’ve always subscribed to the theory it’s better to be lucky than smart.
And, in answer to point 2, if you think all homes are the same, then you had better be lucky because that’s not smart.
Which brings me to point 3 – your actions. What makes you do what you do?
If you’re like me then a lot of what you do is habit – you follow a routine, even if it’s not that good for you. My after dinner routine goes something like this: around 8.00pm I feel like a chocolate – I tell myself that I’m a bit overweight and that chocolate is not helping me, but then I go to the fridge and get a chocolate and then I eat it. I feel good for a short time and then...
I’ve received a cue, I’ve made a decision, I’ve acted and I have achieved an outcome. But it’s a routine decision rather than a good one.
Is making a decision on buying a home for you much different from making a decision on eating a chocolate?
It goes like this: you receive a cue (that look from across dining room table when there simply isn’t enough room for your growing family) – you follow a routine (hop on the internet, ring your bank manager) and you seek a reward (sometimes that reward results in more <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/children/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Children" target="_blank">children</a>, but that’s another story).
So back to where we started, the Melbourne market has started hot and, oh my god, it’s time to panic.
Is there a better way?
The answer is undeniably – yes!
For you to act, you first of all have to make a decision. But it’s the quality of the decision that will determine the quality of your outcome.
So how is a quality decision made? Is it based purely on information?
To buy <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/property/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Property" target="_blank">property</a> in Melbourne’s $3m-plus segment you certainly do need quality information – although that can be hard to find in this secret world where almost everything is undisclosed.
But even if you do have access to quality information, is that all there is to buying a home well?
All information alone does is help you make an intuitive decision.
For many people, their whole life is based on intuition. Intuition is what they rely on to make decisions, because no better conduit is in play. And guess what, most of those types of decision-makers live in the outer <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/suburbs/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Suburbs" target="_blank">suburbs</a> – cruel but true.
Intuition in home buying, like anything else, can be brilliant – but it can also be a disaster.
Which is why, as you get older, you tend to rely less on intuition alone for the bigger financial decisions.
Just as if I’m needing to make an important legal decision, at 53 I find I’m less into intuitive unqualified legal experts and more into process-driven lawyers.
Which brings me to the second part of good decisions – process.
In home buying, many people just dart around like a pinball out of the slot – reacting to agents, to words, to results, with no manner of reason. You would be so much better off and increase your chances of a good outcome if you just followed a basic process.
Think through these things:
<ul>
<li>What do I want?</li>
<li>Does this home give me what I want?</li>
<li>Is it a good home?</li>
<li>How much would others reasonably expect to pay?</li>
</ul>
A proven complete process we use at James Buyer Advocates is <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/clarity/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Clarity" target="_blank">Clarity</a> – <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/assess/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Assess" target="_blank">Assess</a>- <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/value/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with value" target="_blank">Value</a> – <a href="https://marketnews.com.au/tag/negotiate/" rel="tag" title="Posts tagged with Negotiate" target="_blank">Negotiate</a>.
More colloquially you could put that process as: Right home? Any good? How much? How to?
Going back to the lawyers for a second – sure, you could stand up in the court room and defend yourself without any training. But wouldn’t you increase your chances if you knew the rules – if you could follow a process?
Same with doctors – they don’t just make it up as they go along when operating, they follow proven successful processes.
And don’t you think you would get a better result in the first place  in court or in a surgery with an expert doctor or lawyer rather than trying to do it yourself?
The point is that better outcomes come from better decisions. And better decisions are made when a proven process is followed by a qualified expert rather than an inexperienced person relying on intuition.
Intuition is not as effective as expert analysis for many things. That’s the case in your job, and  in pretty much every other profession. It’s the case in selling homes and there is no logical reason why it would be any different when it comes to buying homes.
Using an expert and following a process works better than acting under pressure on intuition alone.
Mal James is principal of<a title="James Buyer Advocates" href="https://www.jamesbuyeradvocates.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> James Buyer Advocates</a>, which advocates on behalf of buyers of property over $1 million. Mal writes weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis on James' website.
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maljames-vHwm28JUAa

Process beats intuition when buying property in wake of Autumn auction anxiety: Mal James

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Braeden Lord, the Aussie Farmers Direct chief, and his wife Jo have listed their Kew home.
The renovated home comes with four bedrooms plus a formal living room, a TV room and a study.
It is scheduled for March 16 auction through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.33edgecombestreetkew.com/details">Marshall White agent Nick Ptak</a> with $2.8 million-plus hopes.
The English-style two-storey family residence, set in a quiet position in the prized Studley Park precinct,  sits in Ian Barker-designed gardens.
It has a solar-heated self-cleaning in-ground pool and spa on its 972-square-metre block.
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Braeden Lord lists Kew home

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Three unlikely Melbourne suburbs have appeared on  the Real Estate Institute of Victoria's (REIV) million-dollar suburbs list, but share very few characteristics with well-known $1 million-plus hotspots like inner-suburban East Melbourne and the coastal enclave of Brighton.
In the year ending February 28, REIV’s $1 million suburbs list contained 39 suburbs, including Kangaroo Ground, Warrandyte South and Red Hill South.
Kangaroo Ground is located 26 kilometres northeast of Melbourne’s CBD and has a median house price of $1,062,500.
The average size home is four bedrooms and the suburb population is 1,014.
Not far from Kangaroo Ground is Warrandyte South – 24 kilometres northeast of Melbourne CBD – which has a median house price of $1,325,000.
The average size home is five bedrooms and the population of the suburb is 647 persons.
Towards the Mornington Peninsula sits Red Hill south, with a median house price of $1,687,500.
The average size home is four bedrooms and the population of the suburb is 1,170 persons.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reiv.com.au/">REIV</a>’s Robert Larocca says each of these suburbs are on the edge of the metropolitan area, meaning that proximity to the CBD is not a factor underpinning their high prices.
Larocca says it’s a lifestyle choice to purchase in these suburbs, as buyers could live much closer to the CBD for the same price.
Characteristics that differ from their inner-city counterparts include larger dwellings – four to five bedrooms are the average – and larger blocks.
The average size block in Kangaroo Ground is 14-acres and the median age of residents are 40 years old.
“The higher average age underpins very high levels of home ownership, between 41% to 52%, compared to the city wide average of 33%,” says Larocca.
The three suburbs don’t appear in the quarterly median price series due to their small sizes and their low volume of sales.
Larocca says the trend will likely continue as the city becomes more dense and suburbs in green wedges become comparatively scarce, desirable and expensive.
A five-bedroom, four-bathroom home on Kangaroo Ground-Warrandyte Road is listed for sale for over $2.3 million.
The 40-square-metre home sits on approximately 2.45 hectares.
It has been listed by Morrison Kleeman Estate Agents Eltham and last sold in 2009 for $1.3 million.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-warrandyte+south-112762831" target="_blank">A four-bedroom home on Green Ridge</a> in Warrandyte South (pictured below) sold on March 8 for around $1.5 million.
<img alt="warrandytemarch13one" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/warrandytemarch13one.jpg">
It boasts two bathrooms, a heated outdoor pool and spa and a Balinese hut with a wet bar.
The house was built in 2000 and sits on just over 0.4 hectares of land.
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-vic-red+hill-112842655" target="_blank">four-bedroom, two-bathroom home</a> on Paringa Road, Red Hill South (picture below), is currently on the market for offers over $1.7 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/redhillmarch13one.jpg" width="470" height="351" alt="redhillmarch13one">
Situated on a 5.6-hectare block, the property boasts a tennis court and an orchard.
It has been listed by Blane Paton from Paton Estate Agents Balnarring. 
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Kangaroo Ground among little-known $1 million Melbourne suburbs: REIV

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Property development group Little Projects has sold all 388 apartments in its ILK South Yarra development just as the building topped out at 24 storeys.
To celebrate the company ran a topping out ceremony where a crane hoisted an olive tree on top of the concrete structure while managing director Michael Fox posed for a photo (below).
<img alt="ilkmarch13three" height="313" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/ilkmarch13three.jpg">
The tradition is a somewhat common practise in the construction industry with many skyscrapers and bridges being topped off with an evergreen tree, supposedly for good luck. The tradition is an ancient Scandinavian practise that has been carried on through the ages and popularised by immigrant ironworkers in America.
In this case the ceremony did highlight the wide panorama residents at the top end of the tower would have from their apartments.
According to Little Projects, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ilksouthyarra.com.au/index">the building</a> is just months of being completed with settlements planned for late July 2013.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/ilkmarch13one.jpg" width="470" height="300" alt="ilkmarch13one">
The project will include a landscaped roof garden with barbecues and dining area, a large indoor/outdoor cinema and a swimming pool with a sauna and a gym.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/ilkmarch13two.jpg" width="470" height="295" alt="ilkmarch13two">
Fox says the sales of the building outperformed other projects in the area.
“ILK sold out quickly, ahead of other competition in the area. We attribute this to its enviable South Yarra location, iconic building design, outstanding residents’ amenity and the high quality fit out of each of the apartments. We have dedicated some of the best views and spaces in the building to amenity which allows for more of the residents to enjoy,” Fox says.
The company has just launched Central South Yarra, a new project in the Forrest Hill Precinct of <a href="/news">South Yarra</a>.
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