Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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?

<html><body>
Some new suburbs are regularly appearing on the REIV list of those with million dollar medians.
The <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Median-Prices/Million-dollar-suburbs" target="_blank">REIV maintains a listing</a> of the most expensive suburbs in Melbourne on its website. This list is updated every month and reflects sales over the preceding 12 months.
The latest list of 39 suburbs with median house prices over $1 million in the year ending February 28 contains many of the suburbs that would typically be expected to appear; those in the inner east, inner south east and north east.
In addition to those are <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/kangaroo-ground-among-little-known-%241-million-melbourne-suburbs-reiv/2013031259842" target="_blank">some new suburbs</a> that share few characteristics with the likes of <a href="/news">East Melbourne</a> and <a href="/news">Brighton</a>. These are <a href="/news">Kangaroo Ground</a>, <a href="/news">Warrandyte South</a> and <a href="/news">Red Hill South</a>. Whilst they differ from the other 36 suburbs with million dollar medians they do have a number of factors in common.
Each is on the edge of the metropolitan area meaning that proximity to the CBD is not a factor underpinning their high prices. As suburbs on the edge of the city they share quiet bush settings and low density.
Buyers are making a lifestyle choice to live here as for the same purchase price they could live much closer to the CBD.
In addition to location their homes have other features not found in most of the most expensive inner city locations.
The dwellings are large, with four- to five-bedroom houses being the average, clearly to take advantage of the other common factor: larger bush blocks. These two factors will contribute to the higher values as large blocks. In Kangaroo Ground, for instance, the average size is 14 acres.
This four-bedroom Italianate estate (pictured below) in <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-kangaroo+ground-111753543">Bellbird Lane, Kangaroo Ground</a>, has been listed by Fletchers Eltham with price hopes of $1.75 million.
<img alt="kangaroogroundapril2one" height="351" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/kangaroogroundapril2one.jpg">
The residents in these burgeoning suburbs are on average less diverse than the metropolitan area and older with a median age of at least 40. The higher average age underpins very high levels of home ownership at between 41%  to 52% compared to the city wide average of 33%.
Due to their relatively small size these suburbs have a low volume of sales which is why they do not appear in the quarterly median price series.
This trend will likely continue. As the city becomes more dense suburbs in green wedges such as these will become comparatively more scarce, desirable and expensive.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; margin: 1em 0em; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><tbody><tr style="background-color: #f2f2f0; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px;">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">EAST MELBOURNE</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">TOORAK</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">CANTERBURY</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">DEEPDENE</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">RED HILL SOUTH</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">BRIGHTON</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">ARMADALE</a> <a href="/news">MALVERN</a> <a href="/news">MAIN RIDGE</a> <a href="/news">ST KILDA WEST</a> <a href="/news">KEW</a> <a href="/news">PARKVILLE</a> <a href="/news">HAWTHORN</a> <a href="/news">CAMBERWELL</a> <a href="/news">WARRANDYTE SOUTH</a> <a href="/news">EAGLEMONT</a> <a href="/news">ELWOOD</a> <a href="/news">MIDDLE PARK</a> <a href="/news">CAULFIELD NORTH</a> <a href="/news">ALBERT PARK</a> <a href="/news">CAULFIELD</a> <a href="/news">BALWYN</a> <a href="/news">PORTSEA</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">SOUTH YARRA</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">HAWTHORN EAST</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">IVANHOE EAST</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">GLEN IRIS</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">HAMPTON</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">MONT ALBERT</a> <a target="_blank" href="/news">ELSTERNWICK</a> <a href="/news">SANDRINGHAM</a> <a href="/news">PRINCES HILL</a> <a href="/news">SURREY HILLS</a> <a href="/news">MALVERN EAST</a> <a href="/news">KANGAROO GROUND</a> <a href="/news">KEW EAST</a> <a href="/news">BLACK ROCK</a> <a href="/news">BRIGHTON EAST</a> <a href="/news">ALPHINGTON</a>
</td>
<td style="margin: 0px; padding: 10px;">$2,540,000 $2,212,500 $1,800,000 $1,751,000 $1,687,500 $1,667,500 $1,600,000 $1,550,000 $1,533,750 $1,437,500 $1,380,000 $1,360,000 $1,350,000 $1,345,000 $1,325,000 $1,315,500 $1,290,000 $1,281,000 $1,271,500 $1,270,000 $1,258,750 $1,251,000 $1,250,000 $1,250,000 $1,215,500 $1,210,000 $1,188,500 $1,162,500 $1,160,000 $1,135,000 $1,110,000 $1,100,000 $1,095,000 $1,076,250 $1,062,500 $1,060,000 $1,055,000 $1,022,500 $1,015,000</td>
</tr></tbody></table>
 
Robert Larocca is <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au">REIV</a> policy and public affairs manager.
</body></html>

rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

Melbourne's million dollar suburbs as fringe hotspots come to the fore: Robert Larocca

<html><body>
Rick Jamieson, the founder of party supply and events company Harry The Hirer, has listed his 60-hectare Bellarine estate, with interest from $12 million.
Jamieson is also a horse breeder and is famous for selling Black Caviar as a yearling for $210,000 after he had concerns for her front legs.
Jamieson bought the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-bellarine-113218667">Spray Farm estate</a> in 2010 for $7.05 million from Scothman’s Hill Vineyard and Winery owners the Browne family.
The 1851 homestead on <a target="_blank" href="/news">Portarlington</a> Road was restored by the Browne family in 1998 and long operated as a high-end function centre, witnessing the marriage of Cathy Freeman.
Jamieson converted the historic farm and vineyard into a private residence after a multi-million-dollar refurbishment.
Spray Farm boasts seven bedrooms, six bathrooms and features high ceilings with detailed cornices, ceilings roses and timber floors.
The stables have been converted into four guest suites.
The architecturally designed gardens are greeted with a sandstone deck, which offers panoramic views over the Bellarine Penisula.
Spray Farm has been listed for private sale through Gerald Delany and Nicole Gleeson from Kay and Burton.
The agents say given Spray Farms rare commodity, it is difficult to put an exact price on the property as there really are no comparables.
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Harry the Hirer founder Rick Jamieson lists Bellarine estate

<html><body>
The southeastern suburbs of Melbourne – particularly Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley – are proving to be hotspots with Chinese buyers looking to further their children’s education and invest in small businesses.
Glen Waverley, 19 kilometres southeast of Melbourne CBD, is a popular spot for Chinese buyers –  both Australian residents and offshore –  wanting to move into the Monash school zone, which boasts a vast number of primary and secondary schools.
Residents of Chinese descent account for almost a quarter of the southeastern suburb population (10,477 people of the 39,204 population according to the 2011 census).
The average house price in Glen Waverley is $720,000, and families account for 79% of households.
A spokesperson for Ray White Glen Waverley says the majority of Chinese home owners buy in Glen Waverley for education, and secondly for the shopping and transportation.
Where a child can attend school is determined by his or her primary and permanent place of residence – upon enrolling, proof of residence must be shown.
If a student lives in a school zone, a place is reserved for him or her at the schools allocated to that zone.
A student can apply for schools in other zones, but being accepted depends on the availability of places at the chosen school, with those within the zone given first preference.
Other factors such as distance, curriculum, social and family links, transport and location convenience are all considered by the school.
<a href="/news">Glen Waverley</a> also is home to further education institutions such as Homesglen TAFE, and not far away is Box Hill TAFE.
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-glen+waverley-113081571" target="_blank">three-bedroom, two-bathroom home</a> on Delmore Crescent (pictured below) recently sold at auction for $765,500.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/schoolsmarch27one.jpg" width="470" height="350" alt="schoolsmarch27one">
Situated on a 680-square-metre lot, it is within walking distance to public transport and located close to Glendal Primary, St Christopher’s Primary, Wesley College and Mount Waverley Secondary School.
It was listed by Tony Levoli from Barry Plant Monash.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
The neighbouring suburb <a href="/news">Mount Waverley</a> is also popular with Chinese buyers, with 5,030 residents of Chinese descent within the 32,076 population, according to the 2011 census.
The median house price in Mount Waverley is $725,500 and family households account for almost 74%.
A five-bedroom, two-bathroom home on Catherine Avenue (pictured below) sold on March 2 for $731,000.
<img alt="schoolsmarch27two" height="272" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/schoolsmarch27two.jpg">
Situated on a 672-square-metre lot, the sale was closed by Buxton real estate Oakleigh.
Last year Property Observer <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/mount-waverley-iga-with-lucky-88-dollar-bids-sells-for-%24600000-above-the-reserve/2012062855319">reported</a> on a free-standing Ritchies IGA in Mount Waverley that sold to an Asian Melbourne-based buyer for nearly $700,000 above the reserve.
The supermarket attracted more than 23 enquiries from offshore Asian buyers prior to its auction date.
Many of the bids included the number 88 – the Asian symbol of good fortune and good luck.
The supermarket had a $6.5 million reserve and eventually sold for $7.19 million.
“Locally based Asian investors generally like to buy commercial property investment with a value of up to $5 million,” says Mark Wizel from CBRE.
“Small Asian investors [who live around the eastern suburbs] tend to buy retail properties that have solid performing tenants.”
“There is little doubt that the Chinese people feel comfortable in Melbourne and have a great understanding of the way the local market works,” says Wizel.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment">download our free eBook. </a>The eBook is also available for<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook"> free download in Chinese.</a>
Photo courtesy of ClarkeHopkinsClarke.
</body></html>

Schools draw Chinese buyers to Melbourne’s southeast

<html><body>
The Melbourne property market looks softer compared with other capital city markets, the Reserve Bank of Australia has noted in its March 2013 Financial Stability Review.
The report found Melbourne could be prone to an oversupply of stock.
“Although housing loan arrears rates are currently low across most parts of Victoria, the outlook for the Melbourne property market appears to be softer than for other large cities and some banks have signalled that they will be alert to any signs of deterioration in asset performance,” says the RBA.
“The current stock of land for sale is at a high level and building approvals data point to increases in the stock of housing, and potential oversupply, in some parts of Melbourne, particularly the inner-city apartment market.
“This is on top of previous strong supply of detached housing in the outer suburbs. The increase in the stock of housing is consistent with Melbourne dwelling prices declining further and recovering less of their earlier decline than prices in most other capital cities have done.” 
According to Residex, Melbourne recorded a modest 0.28% rise in house prices during February. It puts the median house value at $556,500 now, unchanged from a year ago.
For units, Residex found median prices increased 0.62% over February to $426,000, up just 0.51% over the year. Rents have remained unchanged over the year.
And according to RP Data the Melbourne market has been going nowhere for the last 12 months with house prices up just o.58% over the year.
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Melbourne property market softer than other capital cities: RBA

<html><body>
A quirky art deco building in <a href="/news">Malvern</a>, in Melbourne’s inner south-east, has passed in at auction and remains on the market.
The building, currently the site of an obstetrics and gynaecology clinic, has been held in the same hands for the last 30 years.
Kliger Wood agent Nick Breheny expected the property to sell for more than $1.5 million. It passed in on a vendor bid of $1.55 million.
The two storey brick structure on 214 square metres even features its own clock tower.
As well as possible rental potential the building has a small advertising sign that currently brings in $1900 per year.
Breheny says <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-malvern-500629143" target="_blank">the building</a> will most likely be bought by a potential owner-occupier or as an investment for consideration for mixed use conversion.
Co-agent Lou Montalti says it’s hard to gauge a rental yield as it most suits an owner occupier.
It comes with a 5.6 metre street frontage and is currently licensed for medical occupancy.
The property has is set up with a ground floor reception, two consulting rooms and toilet amenities.
On the first level there are four more consulting rooms and a kitchen and toilets.
“There are a number of options for this prominent building ranging from refurbishment and redevelopment with the permits secured, to leasing it out as the permit for use as medical consulting rooms remains in place,” Breheny says.
“This property enjoys a key location on the western side of Wattletree Road close to the Glenferrie Road corner with the immediate area providing an array of prominent retail, services and popular food outlets.”
Inside, the building features a striking spiral staircase.
</body></html>

Quirky Malvern art deco medical building still on the market with $1.5 million plus hopes

<html><body>
R.Corporation began marketing townhouses for the new The Grove development at Maidstone over the weekend, with a drawcard being the collaboration with landscape designer Paul Bangay.
Stage one of the offering, comprising 32 townhouses, completely sold out prior to the launch. Another 12 apartments from stage two, which will have 43 townhouses, sold at the launch.
The Grove development will eventually consist of 145 townhouses built over four stages in Melbourne’s inner west suburb of <a href="/news">Maidstone</a> – eight kilometres from the CBD.
Construction of stage one will begin in July 2013.
Located on Crefden Street, The Grove townhouses will be three-storey with two bedrooms, two bathrooms and feature a balcony and front landscaped garden by <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/brighton-estate-woodlands-with-paul-bangay-gardens-returns-to-the-market-on-third-try-title-tattle/2012022153493" target="_blank">Paul Bangay</a> (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/bangaymarch26one.jpg" width="400" height="412" alt="bangaymarch26one">
“I am excited to be collaborating with R.Corporation on The Grove, as it is an opportunity for me to create my dream for a garden that will reflect the personality of the suburb and lifestyle,” says Bangay.
“Collaboration is all about intellect and mutual respect that leads to creativity and shared fulfillment, which was evident in designing The Grove together.”
R.Corporation says the introduction of Paul Bangay and his <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/not-all-black-and-gloomy-in-vaucluse-prestige-residential-market/2013032160015" target="_blank">garden</a> design makes the development a more welcoming, peaceful and attractive place to live.
Buyers will have the choice of two different designs – Jasmine and Lily – with the Lily design starting from $450,000 and the Jasmine design starting from $480,000.
Both designs will feature clean lines and bright liveable spaces.
Homes will range in size from 137 square metres to 158 square metres including the garage and balcony.
Another drawcard is affordability.
“Our design aesthetic is considered, intelligent and sophisticated, but importantly it’s also attainable,” says Rohan Ames of R. Corporation.
“Professionals and young families will be genuinely surprised that they can afford to live in an R.Corp townhouse.”
The collaboration with Paul Bangay is not a first for R.Corporation, which has previously collaborated with French born Philippe Stark on the Tribeca project at the former CUB brewery site in <a href="/news">East Melbourne</a>.
R.Corporation says 85% of purchases so far have been investors with the other 15% being owner-occupier.
It is anticipated that 20% of sales will come from an overseas market looking to invest.
<div style="font-family: Times; font-size: medium;"></div>
</body></html>

With Paul Bangay gardens R.Corporation woos buyers at The Grove at Maidstone

<html><body>
Persistence appears to have paid off for Collingwood’s Scott Pendlebury on having his third shot at selling his Newport cottage.
His redundant two-bedroom Douglas Parade property came with revised price expectations.
It was initially listed in late 2011 with $780,000 to $840,000 expectations, which were adjusted to $750,000 to $810,000 last year.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.greghocking.com.au/buy/search" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;">It then dropped to $680,000 to $740,000 hopes through Leanne Howlett at Greg Hocking Elly Partners</a>, who has adjusted them to $640,000 to $690,000 to get the house "<a target="_blank" href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/VIC/Newport/?adid=2010175683">under offer</a>."
Pendlebury paid $567,000 in late 2007 for the house on 290 square metres.
"For those seeking low-maintenance living in popular <a href="/news">Newport</a> and <a href="/news">Williamstown</a> fringe location, this stylish two-bedroom home is sure to impress," says the marketing.
Its entrance hall comes with timber boards through to its tiled renovated open plan kitchen and living zone with designer breakfast bar.
"Close to schools, transport, Williamstown shopping, Newport Park, and The Strand bayside walk and bike path, this home is a perfect first home or savvy investment," Howlett says.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Scott Pendlebury secures Newport cottage offer

<html><body>
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>.
</body></html>

Villa Donati listed in Richmond Hill

<html><body>
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.
</body></html>

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

<html><body>
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.
</body></html>

Latest Victoria Property News

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Victoria Property News

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News