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.

&nbsp;

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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."

&nbsp;

[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 signature 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." />

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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.

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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.

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"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.

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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?

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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
The gold rush is long past, but Bendigo’s housing market is shaping up as a treasure trove for property investors, according to the latest data released by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. 
Bendigo, about 130 kilometres north of Melbourne and with a population of around 100,000, has the tightest rental vacancy rate in Victoria, according to the REIV. 
During the month of July, the vacancy rate tightened from 0.5% to 0.3%. 
Rental yields for houses and apartments in Bendigo are around 5%, compared with 3.7% for Melbourne houses and 4.3% for Melbourne units, according to RP Data figures.
According to SQM research, renters make up about a third of the Bendigo market. 
In addition to its strong rental market, the regional centre has also experienced solid house price appreciation, with the Bendigo median house price rising 4.5% in the June quarter to $287,500 – beating regional centres Ballarat (up 1.3%) and Geelong (down 3.9%), according to the REIV. 
Despite this growth, Bendigo houses are substantially cheaper than Melbourne, where the median house price is still above $500,000 despite recent declines. 
According to REIV spokesman Robert Larocca there are two opposing forces spurring on the Bendigo market. 
“On the one hand Bendigo is benefiting from very good transport connections to Melbourne, in fact the corridor between the two cities is seeing city type prices in some centers. But on the other hand as the state’s population has grown the rate of new dwelling construction has not kept pace,” he says. 
“There is also a particular issue in Bendigo that at the time the vacancy rate has been below 1% the proportion of rental homes deemed affordable has dropped from 72% to 50% of rental homes.” 
There are 208 properties listed for rent in Bendigo on Realestate.com.au, with two-thirds of these houses. 
Weekly rentals for houses start from about $200 for a two-bedroom house to more than $600 for Victorian-era houses close to the Bendigo CBD. 
<img src="/images/stories/cheapbendigo.jpg">
The cheapest unit for rent (also the cheapest rental in Bendigo) is a one-bedroom unit on Rowan Street (pictured above) close to the Bendigo CBD asking $135 per week with Danny Clarke from The Professionals handling the listing. 
<img src="/images/stories/expensivebendigo.jpg">
At the top end of the scale is “Hustlers Heights” (pictured above), a stately three-bedroom Victorian house offered at $700 per week, fully furnished by Emma Morison from Tweed Sutherland First National Bendigo. 
Despite the apparent shortage of rental properties, Hustlers Heights has been listed since July 30 with its close proximity to the Capital Theatre, Art Gallery and the cafes of View Street not proving enticing enough to tempt anyone to part with $700 every week. 
Nathan Ludeman, property department manager from Tweed Sutherland First National Bendigo, says the last couple of months demand for rental property has actually slowed down. 
“We have a couple of vacancies at the moment, but that is quite unusual – over the last 18 months to two years there has been a zero vacancy rate. Everything was leased.” 
He puts the current availability of rental properties to seasonal factors: “The market usually slows down over the colder months.” 
Ludeman, who has lived his whole life in the town, says there are a lot of homes under construction at present including subdivisions in and around the outskirts of the city. 
“There are a lot of people moving from Melbourne. The highway has made it a lot quicker to commute – it takes about an hour and 40 minutes – and property is much cheaper than in Melbourne,” he says. 
As for the appeal of the region, he says while it is not dependent on any one industry, it has every sector covered and offers a reasonably relaxed place 
“It’s a smaller version of Geelong, without the beach,” Ludeman says. 
Another local property manager, Anita Harrington from Tony Harrington Estate Agents – Bendigo, says demand for rentals is enormous. 
“We are currently sitting with one property vacant,” she says. 
Harrington says rentals get snapped up very quickly, with new tenants ready to move in almost immediately after an incumbent vacates. 
“It can be quite heartbreaking. There are often people crying because they cannot get a rental property.” 
Harrington says there are a lot of Melbourne investors dipping their toes into the Bendigo market as well as core investors from Bendigo who own multiple properties and continue to buy.
 
The city will also benefit from a new world-class hospital with the Victorian government throwing $630 million into the New Bendigo Hospital project due to commence in December and due to be completed in 2016. 
Bendigo ranked 69 on Your Investment Property’s Top 100 Suburbs survey earlier this year. 
The survey quoted PRDnationwide figures, which found that Bendigo’s house market recorded growth of 12.3% in 2010, and has maintained a 10% average annual growth rate over the past decade. 
PRDnationwide research analyst Dan O’Halloran highlights its relatively close proximity to Melbourne and its role as one of Victoria’s key rural hubs as its key attributes. 
“The area has a diverse and robust economy that comprises mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, health, and a strong financial presence, with Australia’s only provincial stock exchange,” he says. 
“The Bendigo real estate market is large enough to maintain a reasonable level of supply and demand throughout tough economic conditions, which makes it an attractive and secure investment option.” 
“Bendigo’s relative affordability compared to Melbourne, coupled with a strong community vibe, assists to attract many new homeowners to the area each year, while a strong rental yield of 6% per annum creates an enticing option for property investors,” he concludes.
Main photo courtesy of Tourism Victoria
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Bendigo a rental property goldmine for 21st-century speculators

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6 Walter Street, South Yarra, VIC, 3141
The home has been beautifully renovated, blending the period style with a modern extension. Although the renovation is around 10 years old, the house overall has been very well maintained and much of the design intent so clever that it has not dated overly.
There is a lot to like about this property. The floor plan is flexible, with most rooms in the right position. There is a good zoning with separate living areas, which may be ideal for families with children. The home offers good storage and good-quality finishes and fixtures.
Despite the southern exposition, skylights have been smartly incorporated to take advantage of natural light. Some may find the internal courtyard not ideal for entertaining, although it's position is prime and assists with the spatial indoor feel.  Garaging at the rear is very good via Hawksburn Close and it also provides good storage. Location here is very good - walking distance to Toorak Road, Chapel Street and Hawksburn Village, and being within a cul-de-sac traffic flow is minimal.
- Adam Woledge
This is a home that gets me going - in a cul de sac, so no traffic, despite being a great location. The home itself is not about the façade or even the front few rooms, which are perfectly acceptable but nothing special. Where the home shines is to the rear - brilliantly designed renovation to take in the light (it is south facing, but your couldn't tell) - to also give a real sense of space (between living areas) while still feeling connected to each other and the upstairs study and then separate master really works well - all this on top of a double garage and excellent rear car access - this is a real gem for a modern family or couple and worth a premium over the norm.
- Mal James
The property is being marketed by <a href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/" title="Kay &amp; Burton" target="_blank">Kay &amp; Burton</a> agent Chris Alcock with price hopes of $2.1 million plus. It will go to auction on Saturday, August 27 at noon.
James Buyer Advocates gives this home a rating of 719 out of 1,000, which is in the Well Above Average Category. 
Adam Woledge is a registered architect and principal buyer advocate of <a href="https://www.james.net.au/" title="James Buyer Advocates" target="_blank">James Buyer Advocates.</a> Mal James is principal buyer advocate of James Buyer Advocates. James offers home ratings, market updates and buyer updates on its website.
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maljames-vHwm28JUAa

Seamless blend of old and new in South Yarra

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Former Melbourne AFL champion and now Footy Show host Garry Lyon couldn’t sell his prestige Hawthorn offering at weekend auction.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom period house in Hawthorn Grove – one of the suburb’s premier heritage streets – was passed in on a vendor's bid of $3.6 million.
The auction opened on a $3.5 million vendor bid. Lyon bought it in 2005 for $2.74 million.
Its Jellis Craig Glen Iris listing agent Paul Keane had been quoting $3.5 million-plus.
The contemporary house sits behind a stately tuck-pointed brick façade and return veranda.
It comes with an outdoor entertaining pavilion, heated pool and spa.
The much-extended 1890s Hawthorn residence sits on an 854-square-metre block.
Its modern interiors give it a 493-square-metre floorplan over two levels.
There are four bedrooms plus fitted study.
Bennison MacKinnon sold the adjoining property last month at an undisclosed price. It had previously traded three decades ago. Both homes had been built by the same builder last century.
Hawthorn’s current median house price, according to propertydata.com.au, is $1.37 million, having peaked at $1.62 million in June 2010.
According to RP Data, Hawthorn's median house price is $1.29 million. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Garry Lyon fails to sell Hawthorn home at weekend auction

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august19canterbury]}
30 Mangarra Road, Canterbury, VIC, 3126
No question markers over locale – fringe Canterbury Golden Mile. I find these type of homes a trifle soulless, but that is a personal thing - however as things go this is one of the better versions of the modern reproduction home.
Good proportions and well positioned, with formal to front and casual living areas to rear. I like the fact you can enter the home from the garage place to drop off junk, or it could serve as a home office. Garage tight at six metres without being small.
For the size of the home no backyard may be an issue, but the courtyard it does have is well positioned to the kitchen and both entertaining areas – ideal for parties and as well brings in light. Of course you also don't need to mow.
Parquetry flooring at the rear seems as solid as I have seen and works well – the kitchen is high quality but uninspiring and the laundry to the side works well for a modern multitasking home husband or wife. Upstairs via a sweeping quality staircase leads you to a master and ensuite not lacking in size and three other good-sized bedrooms, one with ensuite and the other two sharing the third bathroom plus a good-sized nook for children to gather in. No negatives here on this level.
Overall this home is a lot better than the first impressions I got from the street for what it is – it's an above-average home built to be loved.
– Mal James
Quite a good builder-spec home thathas a functional floor plan and will be fine for those who do not need a large, lawned backyard space and/or a bedroom downstairs.
Mangarra can carry cut-through traffic around school pick-up times (from Canterbury Girls, Camberwell Grammar) and being a little on the narrow side and near the bend is not ideal – that said, this is special part of Canterbury. The quality of the build here is good and this home has been quite well maintained – the outlook/privacy from the ensuite is special and north-facing glass plentiful.
– Adam Woledge
James Buyer Advocates gives this property a rating of 735 out of 1,000, which puts it in the Well Above Average category. It will be auctioned by <a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/index.cfm?pageCall=property&amp;propertyID=1808229&amp;rssLink=true" title="Marshall White" target="_blank">Marshall White</a> agent James Tostevin on Saturday, August 20 at 12.30pm. Tostevin has price hopes of $2.8 million plus for the property.
Adam Woledge is a registered architect and principal buyer advocate at <a target="_blank" title="James Buyer Advocates" href="https://www.james.net.au/">James Buyer Advocates</a>. Mal James is principal buyer advocate at James Buyer Advocates, which includes home ratings, market news and buying advice on its website.
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Home to be loved in Canterbury's Golden Mile

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august12sackville]}
49 Sackville Street, <a target="_blank" title="Kew" href="/news">Kew</a>, VIC, 3101
A well-renovated original home in a prized Kew precinct. Sackville Street contains many fine original homes and is leafy, yet it does carry traffic (particularly during school pick-up/drop-off times). The fact that this has car access off John Street is a big plus here, particularly in light of this.  
Main pluses - the floor plan is practical and suits modern living well, block size and northern rear orientation.  Backyard / rear patio is little exposed (given relative levels and block slope), yet this could be addressed if it were to become an issue for the buyer.  
Also being over a single level, an older family may like better bedroom separation, yet the basement living area helps with this and provides a place for older kids to retreat to. Overall a very good property, and one that should attract good competition at the right price point.
- Adam Woledge
Powerful Sackville ward Kew offering with the classic features and agent to make for an exciting auction or post-auction negotiation. Being picky out the back lets it down a bit; but overall you can smell the money as you walk through this home. Circle $4 million - in this market - yep.
- Mal James
James Buyer Advocates gives this property a rating of 787 out of 1000, which is in the Well Above Average category. It sold at auction on Saturday, August 13 for $4.31 million.
Adam Woledge is a registered architect and principal buyer advocate at <a target="_blank" title="James Buyer Advocates" href="https://www.james.net.au/">James Buyer Advocates</a>. Mal James is principal buyer advocate at James Buyer Advocates, which includes home ratings, market news and buying advice on its website.
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Well-renovated Kew property has a lot to recommend it

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49-51 St Vincents Place, <a target="_blank" title="Albert Park" href="/news">Albert Park</a>, VIC
An imposing piece of the Rochester Terrace has been listed for sale.
Set on the dress circle of St Vincent Gardens, the adjoining 1897 Victorian terraces offer six bedrooms and five bathrooms behind its stunning façade of elegant Corinthian columns. There are also formal and informal living and dining rooms with a flexible floorplan. The opportunity to open up the two terraces has yet to be taken advantage of.
The St Vincent Place precinct was designed to emulate elegant squares found in London. Now registered with the National Trust of Australia, St Vincent Place is home to terraced and detached houses, including the architecturally significant Rochester Terrace, a row of imposing double-storey Victorian houses.
Building commenced in 1869, and it eventually became 10 separate terrace mansions and is still deemed to be the most commanding, coherently designed terrace row in Melbourne. They were constructed by the eminent Emerald Hill auctioneer, agent and speculator WP Buckhurst, who initially built the terraces now numbered 33-43 and in 1879 added the four additional buildings at what is now 45-51.
Architect Charles Boykett designed the terrace, with his son Charles Bolten Boykett completing the row after his father's death.
The terrace housed prominent citizens including bookseller George Robertson, the biscuit manufacturer, TB Guest and the homeopathic chemist R Martin. Like the gardens, it was based on a 19th-century London model that remains largely faithful to its original design, with a bowling green and tennis courts.
The St Vincent Place offering is listed through Alex Schiavo and Tom Staughton at <a target="_blank" title="Kay &amp; Burton" href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/?page=Page&amp;load=ListB&amp;do=search&amp;list=AlbertParkPlus">Kay &amp; Burton Albert Park</a>. The property last sold in 2004 at $3.61 million. More than $5.5 million is being sought.
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Imposing 19th-century Albert Park mansion on the market

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Box 40, one of the 85 bathing boxes at Melbourne's Brighton Beach, is set for September 3 auction.
With $190,000-plus expectations, it seems unlikely to challenge the recent record price for the Dendy Street location.
That was a brand-new bathing box that fetched a record $260,000, even though four other boxes were concurrently listed for private sale with $185,000 plus hopes in mid-June this year.
There are now three other listings for private-treaty sale.
Set on one of the most photographed locales in Australia, Box 40 comes with new weatherboards and a Balinese-style ceiling.
"These highly sought icons of Brighton are a proven investment, and number 40 won't last long," Katie Reid at Nick Johnstone Real Estate says.
"This is possibly the most practically appointed bathing box of them all with a retractable deck/ramp for easy water-sport equipment storage and access."
Bathing boxes existed in Brighton as far back as 1862, with the 85 boxes at Dendy Street being a throwback to the 19th century, when the increasing popularity of sea bathing clashed with Victorian-era prudishness.
The boxes hit $200,000 for the first time in 2007, but during the 2008-2009 global financial downturn there was a $171,000 sale.
Box 73 is currently listed at $180,000 through Buxton Brighton agent Chris Carrington.
“This was listed back in March but there have been a few newer ones available so harder to sell now and will ramp it up once the weather improves,” Carrington says.
Box 72 is for sale through Helen Taylor at Hodges Brighton. Sam Paynter at the Hodges Brighton has $180,000 to $200,000 hopes for Box 16.
The first public auction was in 1999, when a box sold for $60,000.
The local council owns the land for each box and charges an annual licence fee of about $600.
Only Bayside ratepayers or residents are allowed to own one. They are typically 2.4 metres by two metres by two metres.
There are about 1800 bathing boxes and boat sheds around Port Phillip and Western Port Bay.
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Early spring test for Brighton’s bathing box market  

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Melbourne General Cemetery has listed a cathedral-style burial vault with an asking price of $155,000 plus.
Built in 1866, the octagonal structure it is being offered as a burial site for the first time. It is one of the eight historic rotundas within the Carlton cemetery that provided visitors with shade during their visits.
The final pricing is currently with the Department of Health, and it is envisaged to be more than $155,000. The price was initially gazetted at $200,000 by the Department of Health but has since been reviewed. 
It has some 300,000 neighbours.
With the typical mausoleum crypts sale yielding about $33,000, the cemetery trustees acknowledged the decision to convert the rotunda followed “the virtually instantaneous sale of two cathedral-style vaults at St Kilda Cemetery".
Nicole Stow from Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust says nearby graves include one of the founders of Melbourne, John Pascoe Fawkner.
The ornate plot has enough space for two graves.
<img src="/images/stories/cemetery2.jpg">
The vault sits on 10th Avenue in the heart of the cemetery. A striking piece of granite now seals the vault and allows for commemoration.
"With the current construction of the Saint Mary of the Cross Mausoleum at Melbourne soon to be completed providing  a number of  new interment options, we have been going through a process of reviewing  all of our prices," Stow says.
"The price takes into account the cost to install the concrete lined burial vault which is finished off with a piece of granite, the cost to refurbish the Summer House rotunda and the cost to  maintain the structure and surrounding area in perpetuity.
"Given there are seven other summer houses within the grounds, if there was a demand in the future more could be converted into another vault.
"The two Cathedral Style vaults sold at St Kilda Cemetery in 2008 were slightly different  structures, but similar in that they were a pavilion-style building, which sold for approximately $156,000."
In 2009-2010, revenue from cemetery operations was $17.2 million ($24.8 million in 2008-09), with operating costs totalling $14.1 million, resulting in an operations surplus of $3.1 million.
Income from its investment portfolio generated $3.7 million compared with a 2008-09 loss of $19.1 million, reflecting the partial recovery of the equities market and the realisation of some investments.
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Cemetery offering for close to $200,000: Grave concerns over Melbourne affordability

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/july29groverd]}
35 Grove Road, <a target="_blank" title="Hawthorn" href="/news">Hawthorn</a>, Victoria, 3122
A fine double-fronted Victorian home, which has been updated well to suit modern living. Key pluses - rear northern orientation and secure/direct car access, functional floor plan, and the façade is a classic one (yet could be further improved with some colour changes and restoration work). Some may find rear living area a little small, and location of laundry to first floor a little odd (yet could be relocated to existing formal dining room area). First-floor bedrooms are good size and enjoy north light. Given recent strong sales in this area, this should attract good completion - would well suit a young family / couple very well. James Buyer Advocates rates the property 725 out of 1,000, which is in the Well Above Average category. It is being marketed by <a href="https://www.jelliscraig.com.au/property/HAWTHORN-35-Grove-Road/2879331/" title="Jellis Craig" target="_blank">Jellis Craig</a> agents Peter Vigano and Katrina Mckenna and goes to auction on Saturday, July 30 at noon. 
 
Adam Woledge is a registered architect and principal buyer advocate at <a href="https://www.james.net.au/en-au/" title="James Buyer Advocates" target="_blank">James Buyer Advocates</a>. James includes market news, home ratings and auction reports on its website.
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Updated Victorian in Hawthorn

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The Melbourne Open House scheme features 75 buildings that will be open this year on its July 30-31 weekend.
The scheme comprises mostly offices, but the residences on show include the ground floor and gardens of Bishopscourt (pictured, photo by Ken Ng), the 1853 East Melbourne mansion. Built for Bishop Perry, first Anglican Bishop of Melbourne, the bluestone house is the oldest in East Melbourne.
Tickets were required, and have now all been allocated for the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trophy-homes/a-work-of-art-in-southbank/2011072750908" title="Work of art in Southbank" target="_blank">Triptych </a>at Southbank, a 24-level apartment tower designed as a series of eight three-storey "vertical villages" that aim for a sense of community.
There’s also be an opportunity to see two city properties built as homes but no longer lived in. The top floors of the 1887 ANZ Gothic-style bank in Collins Street, once the home of George Verdon, general manager of the bank for which it was built, will be part of tours that will include the richly decorated banking chamber.
Parts of three Charles Webb-designed terraces in Tasma Terrace, now home to the National Trust, will also be open.
Inspired by similar programs initiated in London and New York, <a href="https://www.melbourneopenhouse.com.au" title="Melbourne Open House" target="_blank">Melbourne Open House</a> has installed its own ambassador, Grand Designs host and architect Peter Maddison. Maddison favours the Town Hall, Lyons Architecture Office and the old Land Titles Office, which has a fireproof vault that Maddison marvels is an interwoven three-storey vertical space with narrow walkways and spiral stairs all made from hot riveted steel, solid-slate shelving and bluestone. It has not been touched since the 1880s.
“You can understand the emphasis we place on freehold land ownership when you visit this one," Maddison told The Age.
Of the 75 buildings on offer, entry to six was selected by earlier ballot.
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