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]

Joel Robinson

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

International developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/spg-land">SPG Land</a> is preparing to re-launch its long-awaited $1.5 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/paradiso-place-surfers-paradise-103-ferny-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Paradiso Place</a> development at Budds Beach, bringing a new price point to the Surfers Paradise apartment market.

The developer will release one-bedroom apartments from $825,000 and two-bedroom apartments from $1.24 million in the three-tower development.

According to Urbis, the starting price for the two-bedroom apartments is more than $400,000 below the weighted average sale price for comparable two-bedroom apartments in Surfers Paradise during 2025, which was pinned at $1.7 million.

&nbsp;

Urbis reported quarterly average sale prices for new two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments ranged from around $1.2 million to $1.7 million throughout 2025, peaking in the December quarter.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=185853]

Paradiso Place is now moving into its formal sales campaign, with a limited early-release opportunity available ahead of the public launch.

The development will comprise 845 apartments across three towers rising 40, 41 and 44 storeys from a 1.15-hectare site spanning an entire city block. The towers will sit above a new retail precinct.

"Paradiso Place represents a rare opportunity in today's market, offering premium apartments at a price point that is significantly more competitive than anything else currently available," SPG Land Sales Director Brad McMahon said.

"When you look at comparable new developments across Surfers Paradise, Main Beach and the Southern Beaches precinct, buyers are typically paying hundreds of thousands more for a similar product.

"The scale of this project and the developer-builder construction model allows us to unlock efficiencies that smaller developments simply cannot achieve. We are passing those benefits directly to buyers, while still delivering a five-star residential experience with an unmatched lifestyle."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=374280]

Each of the three towers designed by Rothelowman will have its own podium, connected by an elevated skybridge network to create a beachside village for residents. The resident amenity has been designed to rival a five-star hotel, with private dining rooms, resident lounges and entertainment spaces.

McMahon said the pricing strategy was a deliberate response to the current market.

"What Paradiso Place offers is a unique balance, genuine value within a premium market. Buyers are not compromising on quality, design or amenity, they are gaining access to it at a more competitive price point at a time when prices across the Gold Coast continue to reach new highs."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=362498]

Located around 100 metres from the beach and within walking distance of the Surfers Paradise North light rail station, Paradiso Place occupies one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held beachfront precincts.

Construction is continuing to progress, with eight of the project's 112 foundation piles now complete. Excavation has also commenced on the first diaphragm wall panel, with the first concrete poured on 15 June, marking a key milestone in the project's early works program.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106566]

SPG Land launches $1.5 billion Paradiso Place at attractive price point

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

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>
Jellis Craig presents the change in house and unit prices in the inner-Melbourne municipality of Richmond during 2011.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/richmondmap.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/richmondmapthumb.jpg"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> Annual Property Review
Numbers in brackets indicate a decrease
 
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Annual median dwelling price changes in Richmond: Jellis Craig

<html><body>
The overall Melbourne market declined 6.1% in December, according to RP Data, but the median house price in Richmond increased 4% during the year, according to Jellis Craig's Annual Property Review.
"From December 2010 quarter to December 2011 quarter median property prices in Richmond increased from $816,000 to $852,000, showing a modest growth at odds with the softening of the market nationally and showing that local variations distinguish the current market," says report author and Jellis Craig Richmond director Clayton Smith, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/landlords/block-richmond-properties-hit-the-rental-market-with-yields-of-up-to-6.3/2011092851717">who also auctioned one of the properties for sale on the Channel 9 series The Block</a>.
Smith says, however, that it took longer to sell property during 2011, and that sales volumes were down.
"While we saw some bounce back in values, the volume of properties transacted was significantly  down in 2011, with 103 fewer than in the preceding 12-month period; particularly in the $1 million plus price bracket. The number of average days on market increased slightly from 28 to 34 compared with the previous year."
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/richcomment1.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/richcomment1thumb.jpg"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> Annual Property Review
"The two interest rate reductions by December 2011 produced an immediate response from buyers, with more vigorous bidding competition at our auctions and producing some exciting results well beyond expectations.
"Although new home lending has been down, lending for existing properties has been trending upwards, and evidence suggests that borrowers remain more than able to service loan repayments and that many potential buyers have access to a house deposit."
Smith is optimistic for the Richmond market in 2012.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/richcomment2.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/richcomment2thumb.jpg"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> Annual Property Review
"The current market balance could be tilted by any additional reductions as buyers tired of waiting for what might be considered ‘the right moment’ enter the market. This could potentially tip the scales slightly in favour of sellers when friendlier interest rates meet pent-up demand," he says.
"The year has begun on a positive note with both buyers and potential sellers making contact with the office early in January, signalling their intention to transact this year."
 
 
</body></html>

cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Richmond property prices defied downturn in 2011: Jellis Craig

<html><body>
Balgownie, the very unusual 1913 Beaconsfield Parade, St Kilda West house has been sold. 
The three-level five bedroom house with a lift <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/vendors-of-st-kilda-west-home-hope-%245-million-is-over-the-horizon/2011092251652">was listed last September </a>at $5 million plus, but it was repriced at $3.9 million over the intervening months.
Shane Siemers and Andrew Stuart at Hocking Stuart recently posted the sold sticker. The sale price has not been disclosed.
 
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Balgownie in St Kilda West sells after revised pricing: Title Tattle

<html><body>
More famous for its cheap Asian eateries, strong immigrant population and high rates of crime, Footscray and neighbouring West Footscray to feature among six suburbs within 10 kilometres of the Melbourne CBD on the latest hot 100 list of investment locations compiled by Australian Property Investor.
The four other suburbs within 10 kilometres of the city included on the sixth edition of the annual list are Carlton North, Northcote, Thornbury and Ascot Vale.
Both Footscray suburbs have the most affordable median house prices ($520,000 for Footscray and $500,000 for West Footscray) and median unit prices ($318,000 and $290,000) out of the six inner ring suburbs
Melbourne hottest suburbs with 10 kilometres of CBD 
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Dis-tance from CBD
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Median house price
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Median unit price
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Median house rent
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Median unit 
rent
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
House yield
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Unit yield
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Carlton North
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.8 kms
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$830,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$460,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$520
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$395
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.3%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
4.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
North-cote
 
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
5.5km
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$800,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$445,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$495
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$335
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.2%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Thorn- bury
 
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
7km
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$658,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$375,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$440
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$290
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.5%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Ascot Vale
 
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
6.6km
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$707,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$468,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$450
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$340
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.3%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
Foots- cray
 
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
6.9km
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$520,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$318,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$360
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$295
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.6%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
4.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="77" valign="top">
West Foots- cray
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
9km
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$500,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$290,000
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$360
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
$240
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
3.7%
</td>
<td width="77" valign="top">
4.3%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Australian Property Investor Magazine
Property consultant Peter Rogozik says the key drivers of the Footscray property market are affordability, the potential for further capital growth and continued gentrification
“Footscray is in close proximity to the expanding Highpoint Shopping Centre in Maribyrnong, in Melbourne’s north west, and next door to trendy Seddon Village in Seddon and Yarraville, which have both taken off over the past 20 to 30 years,” he says.
“The major attraction of Footscray is it’s the most affordable inner-city suburb where you can still find a freestanding Edwardian house on a good size block from $550,000 with an approximate 4.2% gross rental yield,” he says.
Rogozik says the suburb is shaking its unfair labelling as being “painted in crime” with a more professional demographic moving in.
Alexandra Churches from valuers WBP Property says West Footscray has a very good council that is “actively rejuvenating the Barkly Street village”.
Its other strengths are its connectedness to the Melbourne CBD, with Ballarat and Geelong roads both merging into one and heading into the Melbourne CBD.
“The Westgate Freeway also connects the suburb with the city,” says Church.
While West Footscray does not provide families with a great option of schools, Church says it has university campuses nearby, “a great multicultural food hub, major public and private hospitals, a train station upgrade and is close to a major shopping centre”.
The other Melbourne suburbs chosen because of their proximity to the CBD include Carlton North (“local facilities including parks, restaurants, bars and cafés, universities and more”); Northcote (“family-friendly suburb, where capital growth is generally strong”); Ascot Vale (“more affordable the other suburbs and well serviced by public transport”) and Thornbury (“good access to hospitals and schools and plenty of parkland”). 
Looking beyond the 10-kilometre radius, there are seven Melbourne suburbs on the list, including some surprise locations such as Sunshine, Broadmeadows and the outlying suburbs of Frankston and Dandenong.
Outside of Melbourne the regional centres of Ballarat and Bendigo as well as the country towns of Werribee and Warrnambool are also included in the hot 100.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Melbourne suburb
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
Distance from CBD
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
Median house price
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
Median unit price
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
Median house rent
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
Median unit 
rent
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
House yield
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
Unit yield
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Box Hill
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
13 kms
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$748,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$410,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$395
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$270
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
2.7%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
3.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Broad-meadows
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
15km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$359,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$305,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$310
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$290
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4.5%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Dan- denong
 
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
28km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$375,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$269,000
 
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$310
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$270
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4.3%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
5.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Frankston
 
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
40 kms
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$350,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$295,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$310
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$260
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4.6%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Ringwood
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
27 kms
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$455,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$383,000
 
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$355
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$305
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Sunshine
 
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
13.2kms
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$430,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$265,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$300
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$250
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
3.6%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Mentone
 
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
20.3km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$584,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$396,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$450
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$295
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
3.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="616" colspan="8" valign="top">
Outside of Melbourne…
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Werribee
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
34.6km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$310,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$270,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$270
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$250
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
4.5%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Ballarat
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
102km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$270,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$220,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$270
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$190
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
5.2%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
4.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Bendigo
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
132km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$280,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
n/a
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$300
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
n/a
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
5.6%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
n/a
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="115" valign="top">
Warr-nambool
 
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
226km
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$315,000
</td>
<td width="80" valign="top">
$241,000
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$320
</td>
<td width="72" valign="top">
$230
</td>
<td width="64" valign="top">
5.3%
</td>
<td width="53" valign="top">
5%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Australian Property Investor Magazine
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Unfashionable Footscray and West Footscray among 2012 Melbourne hotspots 

<html><body>
Portsea’s had its quietest summer selling season in recent memory. Few trophy listings, so even fewer actual sales.
From the officially known data, the highest publicly recorded sale was $2,375,000 on the golf course on Relph Avenue.
So summer’s done and dusted and Kay &amp; Burton Portsea agent Liz Jensen is now onto her Easter listings.
Dundonald, the five-bedroom, three-bathroom 1917 limestone residence opposite Fishermans Beach, has been with the Boykett  family since its construction.
Set on 1,724 square metres of level Point Nepean Road lawns, it’s only been recently refreshed.
More than $2.75 million is being sought.
Summer's shining moment was the delayed terms settlement in December of the landmark clifftop Ilyuka to John Higgins, who ran a family paint business in Brunswick before his windfall investment in Polish breweries.
Its sale - Victoria's record house sale - was officially recorded at $26 million after much speculation since its December 2010 exchange by the former Computershare director Michele O'Halloran.
The 1930s Spanish Mission house was marketed by Ross Savas and the veteran agent Gerald Delany, who has since departed Kay &amp; Burton, and despite much speculation has yet to take his open for inspection sign boards to any other agency.
Ilyuka, a sprawling house built for American oil tycoon Harry Cornforth in 1929-30, was marketed globally with a campaign that included a five-minute movie set in the mansion. O'Halloran bought the mansion in 1999 for $7.5 million and then secured $1.6 million for the 742-square-metre former vegie patch in a subsequent disposal.
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

Portsea’s limestone charmer Dundonald on the market after quiet summer selling season

<html><body>
Construction mogul Daniel Grollo has sold his Cape Schanck holiday house. Its sale price has not been disclosed, but the five-bedroom, four bathroom house, which offers sweeping views of Bass Strait, was listed pre-Christmas with $2 million-plus hopes.
Set on the doorstep of the exclusive National Golf Club, the house sits on 3,155 square metres.
It comes with three living areas, gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, theatre, bar, horizon pool and a double garage.
Kay &amp; Burton Flinders agent Andrew Hines had the listing.
Grollo bought the property for $2.45 million mid-2008 following several unsuccessful sales campaigns in which the house was quoted at prices from $2.7 million to $4 million.
It had been designed by Waterface Living Architecture for friends Dr Dick Merigan, a GP with a large practice in Rowville, and Paul Goss, owner of Modern Milk Supplies.
Entered via a monumental portico, it has polished spotted gum floors, floor-to-ceiling windows and an open fireplace. There's also a home theatre with built-in bar, a family room or gym with its own ensuite, swimming pool, wine cellar and double garage.
 
</body></html>

Grocon boss Daniel Grollo sells Cape Schanck weekender: Title Tattle

<html><body>
Former model Simone Warne-Callahan has relisted her clifftop Mornington Peninsula retreat, Clahane.
The former wife of cricketer Shane Warne wants $1.5 million plus for the four-bedroom, 332-square-metre Arthurs Seat house this time.
She’d initially sought $2 million in early 2010, which was subsequently revised to $1.59 million-plus hopes.
It was last traded in 2008 at $1,225,000.
The 4,700-square-metre property comes with self-contained guest accommodation, tennis court and swimming pool. There’s a 100,000-litre water tank that services the established gardens.
There are sweeping views towards the CBD and over the Mornington Peninsula from the renovated single-level Scenic Place house, which had its Fasham-Johnson-makeover done before its last sale.
It’s listed through Harcourts Rosebud agent Grant McConnell, who will put Clahane to March 24 auction.
Callahan, a former model and Dancing with the Stars contestant (2006), now partners with part-time model Toby Roberts, son of 1958 Brownlow medallist Neil Roberts.
</body></html>

Simone Warne hopes third listing lucky for Mornington Peninsula retreat: Title Tattle

<html><body>
Woodlands, the 6,130-square-metre Brighton estate with a striking European inspired residence, has returned to the market.
Ian Jackson at Kay &amp; Burton has the South Road listing, which hit the market in both 2009 and 2010.
The six-bedroom residence was designed by local architect Jon Friedrich within Paul Bangay designed gardens. Its foyer has a sweeping wrought-iron staircase with marble flooring.
The estate comes with a guest house, flood-lit mod-grass tennis court and glassed indoor pool and spa.
Woodlands, initially listed with $10 million plus hopes, reputedly sits on the suburb's largest private landholding.
The block cost $1 million in 2002.
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Brighton estate Woodlands with Paul Bangay gardens returns to the market on third try: Title Tattle

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It was in 1996 when a pretty, double-fronted Victorian then unrenovated eight-room Caroline Street, South Yarra brick-and-timber house last sold.
Its selling agent Philippe Batters was just about to knock the hammer down the house when a woman stopped the auction to ask the highest $645,000 bidder, “Are you going to develop it? We are neighbours, and we want to know".
The answer was duly given and now the lovely time capsule has returned to the market with its Peter Carmichael redesign by the Liberman family for all to inspect. The light-filled house, with open-plan living and dining areas and adjacent outdoor entertaining spaces, comes with many modern features including Scandinavian myrtle floors and hydronic heating.
Offers are due on the house, which sits on an 895-square-metre block, by February 28 through Darren Lewenberg and Gowan Stubbings at Kay &amp; Burton.
The modern home behind its Victorian façade was briefly listed last July through Justin Long at Marshall White with $4 million-plus hopes, which were revised to $3.75 million plus.
Set on an 1840 subdivision, the lot first sold in 1854 for £200. The 1870s the brick additions to the earlier cottage were made for grocer George Walker, who’d purchased the property for £600 in 1870. It’s believed Walker also added the Italianate front wing with its polychromatic brick and twin bay windows.
<img src="/images/stories/caroline.jpg">
The house was bought by Major-General Walter Adams Coxen before World War II, and he gave it the name it still bears in honour of his birthplace in Surrey, England. It was his daughter, Adelaide ``Marmie" Coxen, 85, who was its 1996 vendor, having set a reserve of $500,000.
Walter Adams Coxen was educated in Australia and had a distinguished record, being ADC to the King between 1920 and 1927, the Chief of Artillery from 1921 to 1924, 2nd Chief of the General's Staff from 1930 to 1934, Quartermaster-General from 1925 to 1930, and chief of the General's Staff from 1930 1931. He commanded the greatest aggregation of artillery of any war in history with 1,083 guns.
“It is as if this house was locked up after World War II and recently unlocked again. The owner's everyday utensils are collector's items," the agents said at the time.
During its 1996 marketing it was noted an old brick bakery, connected to the house by a rusty, corrugated walkway, pre-dated the house. According to a local historian, the bakery building appears on one of South Yarra's earliest maps.
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South Yarra Victorian with on the market after a Peter Carmichael redesign: Title Tattle

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Mount Nagle, the landmark 1870 Queenscliff property, has been sold.
It was listed by the Presentation Sisters Victoria. The property sold within two weeks for $1.1 million to a Melbourne buyer wanting to relocate.
Set on an 1,840-square-metre elevated block, it comes with glimpses of Swan Bay.
The Victorian-era building was marketed by Rendina Kensington agent Charles Bongiovanni as offering “unlimited scope for improvement”.
“One of the most significant historical buildings in Queenscliff and used as a summer house by eminent Victorians during the early 20th century, this remarkable property has been superbly maintained for more than a century,” Bongiovanni says.
“Many period features remain and the property comprises of 15 bedrooms, two bathrooms, four living areas, plus kitchen with adjoining dining room and cellar,” Bongiovanni says.
The Queen Street building is currently used as a private guest house retreat, 100 kilometres from Melbourne.
Some $1.75 million plus had been sought when local agents first listed it in 2010.
 
 
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