Pikos Group's CEO Michelle Wooldridge Discusses Brisbane's Property Market and Exciting Developments

Apartments.com.au's CEO Mike Bird recently had an insightful conversation with Michelle Wooldridge, the CEO of Pikos Group. With a wealth of experience in the property market, including roles with major developers, Wooldridge shared her perspectives on Brisbane's property market and provided a glimpse into Pikos Group's exciting future.

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Evolution of Brisbane's Property Market

Wooldridge highlighted the evolution of Brisbane's property market over the past 5 to 10 years, emphasizing the city's growth and evolving placemaking initiatives. The rise of owner-occupiers and increased interest from interstate and international buyers indicate Brisbane's appeal. With significant precincts like Eagle Street and Queens Wharf nearing completion, coupled with the upcoming Olympics, Brisbane's property market is experiencing tremendous momentum.

Challenges and Opportunities

The interview touched on challenges arising from major infrastructure projects, such as hospital developments and the Olympics. Wooldridge acknowledged the positive impact of these projects on Brisbane's growth but highlighted the pressure on the subcontractor market. Despite challenges, the underlying fundamentals and the confidence in Brisbane's growth trajectory provide a solid foundation for continued success.

Changing Perspectives on Urban Living

Wooldridge and Bird discussed the shift in perspectives on urban living, emphasizing lifestyle choices and the appeal of apartments. Brisbane's favorable weather, coupled with high-quality products, makes the city an attractive option for those reassessing their living preferences. The discussion touched on the changing needs of residents, including downsizers and mature families, who seek the convenience and lifestyle benefits of well-located, high-end projects.

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Pikos Group's Pipeline and Vision

Wooldridge shared Pikos Group's impressive pipeline, boasting a $1.2 billion portfolio. The diverse projects, strategically located in or near riverfront precincts, contribute to the group's confidence in Brisbane's future growth. The discussion highlighted Pikos Group's transition from a business-to-business (B2B) model to a developer holding and managing stock, marking a new phase in the company's approach.

Confidence in Pikos Group's Future

Assembling a team with both tier-one corporate capability and entrepreneurial innovation, Pikos Group aims to deliver exceptional projects. Wooldridge expressed confidence in the team's ability to blend experience and innovation, citing the Lambert Street project at Kangaroo Point as an exciting example of this synergy.

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The conversation concluded with Bird expressing Apartments.com.au's enthusiasm for partnering with Pikos Group, recognizing the depth of experience and the exciting prospects the collaboration promises for Brisbane's property market.

Stay tuned for Pikos Group's transformative projects that marry corporate expertise with entrepreneurial spirit, shaping Brisbane's urban landscape for years to come.

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Dive into Brisbane's property market in this interview with Michelle Wooldridge, the CEO of Pikos Group. Gain valuable insights into the evolution of Brisbane's real estate scene, driven by placemaking initiatives and an influx of interstate and international interest. 

Explore the challenges and opportunities presented by major infrastructure projects like hospitals and the upcoming Olympics, and discover how Pikos Group is strategically positioned with a $1.2 billion pipeline to capitalise on the city's growth. 

Michael Bird

How Brisbane's apartment market is coming into its own with Michelle Wooldridge, CEO at Pikos Group

Highett Common by Sunkin Property Group is set to rise from <a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">one of the best spots in Bayside</a>, connected to both extensive public transport, amenity, and the beach.

We recently visited the <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">Highett Common</a> display suite at <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">37 Graham Road</a> to look at the project in more detail.

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In a city like Melbourne, where public transport is so good, buying a home in an up-and-coming fringe suburb is always an astute choice. Highett is a prime example – you're close to the beach, there's a thriving hub of bars and eateries, and you can hop on the train and be in the city in under 40 minutes.

Architecturally designed by famed Melbourne-based design practice ClarkeHopkinsClarke, <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">Highett Common's thoughtful masterplan</a> offers provisions for sustainable living, verdant green spaces and apartments crafted using the finest quality materials.

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Whether you're after a one, two or three-bedroom apartment, <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">Highett Common</a> has a range of intuitive floorplans to choose from. What I love is that all apartments have been thoughtfully oriented with floor-to-ceiling glazing to make the most of the parkland views – it's the kind of attention to detail that comes with great design.

The 9.3-hectare masterplan includes a Conservation Reserve, a one-hectare public park and playground and a new community library – with walkways taking you through leafy, tree-lined corridors and boulevards. In fact, over 40 per cent of the site is dedicated to green open space.

At <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">Highett Common</a>, you'll also have access to multiple state-of-the-art gymnasiums with wellness areas and two luxurious swimming pools, one outdoor and one indoor – as well as residents' dining room and lounge perfect for hosting gatherings with friends and family.

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You'll also have access to a platform that enables you to connect with your neighbours via a smart community app, enabling you to book amenities, receive project updates and alerts, join social clubs, sign up for fitness and wellness activities and access local business services.

As the first medium-density masterplanned, Net Zero Carbon community in Victoria, the all-electric development boasts solar panels for energy generation into the development, smart car charging capability, recycled rainwater for irrigation, sustainably sourced timber and steel and many more energy efficiency features.

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Located at 37 Graham Road, <a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">Highett</a> Station is literally a two-minute walk away; <a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">Highett</a> Shopping Centre with a Woolworths supermarket and specialty shops right next door.

You can cycle to the beach and bay trail, and you're spoilt for choice when it comes to dining and bar options along <a href="/new-apartments/highett-vic-3190">Highett</a> Road. Civil works across the whole masterplan are currently well underway, with completion of the first stage of <a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">Highett Common</a> slated for mid-2025.

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We recently visited the Highett Common display suite at 37 Graham Road to look at the project in more detail

Staff Writer

Display Suite Tour: Inside the Highett Common masterplanned development by Sunkin Property Group

In a recent interview between Urban CEO Mike Bird and Alex Adams, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aqualand, the progress of the Aura development was discussed, shedding light on its unique features and the current real estate market in Sydney.

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Unveiling Aura's Unique Design and Progress 
Situated just across the road from the Aura development, the interview began with a glimpse of the progress made. Adams shared that Aura, visually appearing as four interconnected buildings, is actually a single structure with 28 levels. The design, akin to four interconnected pedals, showcases the innovative approach Aqualand has taken.

Sales and marketing for Aura have seen tremendous success, despite the challenges in the general market. Adams attributed this success to a combination of luck and effective marketing strategies, putting the project on track to achieve the remarkable milestone of $500 million.

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Sydney's Resilience in the Real Estate Market 
Adams expressed his confidence in Sydney leading the real estate market's resurgence, noting that the city is emerging from what he humorously referred to as a "funny period." The market's recovery, driven by strategic marketing and client engagement, reflects a positive trend for Aura.

Targeted Buyers and Demographics 
The types of buyers for Aura have remained consistent over time, primarily local downsizers, young professionals, and upsizers from the lower North Shore area. Adams highlighted the unexpected interest from Pymble and Lindfield, showcasing the project's broad appeal.

The Impact of Previous Projects 
Adams discussed the influence of Aqualand's completed projects, particularly Blue at Lavender Bay and Revy. These completed projects not only serve as brand recognition but also act as tangible examples for potential buyers. The confidence gained from showcasing completed developments has been a key factor in attracting interest in Aura.

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Building Confidence Through Transparency 
The discussion touched on Aqualand's commitment to transparency, a critical aspect often lacking in the real estate market. Adams emphasized the importance of showcasing construction progress through visual updates and detailed quarterly videos. This commitment to transparency aims to build trust and confidence among potential buyers.

Key Buyer Concerns: Quality, Size, and Location 
Adams identified the top three concerns of potential buyers: quality, size, and location. Quality, referring to the construction and finishes, takes precedence. Size became a crucial focus for Aura, with a deliberate effort to provide larger apartments, responding to the evolving needs of the local market. Lastly, the proximity to the Victoria Cross Metro station and the array of amenities within the building contribute to Aura's appeal.

A Unique Approach to Amenities 
Aura offers a distinctive range of amenities, including an underground pool inspired by Turkish baths, a wellness center, a gym in collaboration with Technogym, and a five-star concierge service. The Sky Deck on level 26 provides residents with breathtaking views, making it a unique and coveted space within the development.

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Black Key Subscription Service 
A standout feature of Aura is the Black Key subscription service, offering a level of service comparable to the prestigious AMEX Black Card. This exclusive service includes personalized assistance for events, last-minute dining requests, and access to the Sky Deck, adding an extra layer of luxury to Aura living.

Aqualand's Aura stands out not only for its innovative design and construction progress but also for its commitment to transparency and meeting the evolving needs of the real estate market in Sydney. The collaboration between Urban and Aqualand reflects a shared commitment to delivering exceptional projects that inspire confidence in buyers.

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In a recent interview between Urban CEO Mike Bird and Alex Adams, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aqualand, the progress of the Aura development was discussed, shedding light on its unique features and the current real estate market in Sydney.

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