Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

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Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

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>

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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?

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

<html><body>
One of the most important economic announcements of the year has passed without fanfare and almost without comment. The venture will create the most powerful telescope ever made (it will have 2,000 dishes, each 12 metres wide).
The Square Kilometre Array is a $2.5 billion project that will make Australia the focus of major international attention for reasons other than the mining sector.
It’s an international project involving 20 nations, and a site just outside Geraldton in Western Australia will provide the core of the development. This makes Geraldton a city of international importance and adds to its appeal as a place worthy of consideration by property investors.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/geraldton.png">
It’s been in the making for several years, with Australia initially making a short list of two to secure the project. It has a discovery potential 10,000 times greater than the best present-day telescopic instruments. It will allow us to see further into the universe than ever before
The federal government gave $80 million in the 2009 budget towards winning the project for Australia. The funds established an Australian National Centre for SKA Science to help the nation’s bid for this project, including a mini-SKA, the $110 million Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP) to road test Australia’s candidate site for the SKA.
In November 2011 the Western Australian government announced a $15 million plan to provide power for the SKA project, via a hybrid diesel/solar power plant. Funding for the project came from the Royalties for Regions Mid-West Investment Plan.
In other words, there was a considerable economic boost to Geraldton just in the attempt to win the project.
In May 2012 it was decided that Geraldton and its South African opponent would share the venture.
The decision means a square kilometre of dishes with multi-pixel radio cameras will be established at Boolardy Station, north-east of Geraldton.
Phase one of the project will start in 2016 and run until about 2020, with the remainder to be built in phase two. Its cost is currently estimated at $2.5 billion to build and $25 billion to maintain over the next 50 years, paid for by a consortium of 20 countries.
This makes Geraldton a city of international importance and adds to its appeal as a place worthy of consideration by property investors.
The other big venture impacting on Geraldton’s future is the $6 billion Oakajee port and rail project. This has been designed to service the iron ore mines of WA’s mid-west region, which doesn’t get the attention directed to the Pilbara but is nevertheless a key component of WA’s resources success story.
The Oakajee project has stalled because one of the key proponents, Murchison Metals, was essentially out of its depth and couldn’t fund it. Its partner, the Japanese giant Mitsubishi, has bought out Murchison and hopefully will advance the project, either alone or with new financial partners.
It the meantime, some of the other miners active in the mid-west have come up with “a rescue plan” to ensure this much-needed piece of infrastructure goes ahead, one way or the other.
Geraldton appeals to me because, unlike regional centres further north like Karratha and Port Hedland, it’s not reliant on mining as the only trick in its repertoire.
If iron ore mining shut down tomorrow, Geraldton would still chug along happily as a regional centre servicing a diverse economy with strong elements of agriculture, fishing and tourism. The SKA provides an additional major element.
The other key difference with Geraldton is that its real estate is affordable. You pay $800,000-ish for the typical Karratha house and over $1 million for the average dwelling in Port Hedland (and it is very average).
The mainstream house in Geraldton costs somewhere in the $300,000s, with a number of suburbs having median house prices in the $200,000s. The city has plentiful land supply, which means it doesn’t have the shortages that have bloated prices and rents in Karratha and Port Hedland.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting">followed on Twitter</a>.
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

The Square Kilometre Array will bring international attention – and property investment – to Geraldton, WA: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
The regional centre of Manjimup, about 300 kilometres south of Perth, the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest producer of perigold black truffles, has also gained the title of the local government area with the most acute housing shortage.
The list of the 30 municipalities contains just three locations on the metropolitan fringe – the Perth suburbs of Melville, Mundaring and Joondalup – weakening the argument that land release problems in the outer suburbs of the major cities is a key reason for Australia’s contested housing shortage.
<img src="/images/stories/manjimup1.jpg">
Over the weekend, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/no-australian-wide-housing-shortage-csrs-ross-sindel/2012052154769">CSR chief executive Rob Sindel</a> rejected the notion that Australia is suffering from a nationwide housing shortage – he says there are shortages in certain places such as NSW, south-east Queensland and WA.
The top 30 list compiled by the HIA is dominated by WA, which makes up half (15) of the local government areas with the most chronic undersupply of homes, followed by Queensland (7), NT (3), Victoria (3) with one each in NSW and South Australia.
Manjimup needs almost an additional four dwellings (3.94) for every 100 people in the town, which has a population of just over 10,000 – or 399 dwellings, according to the HIA.
The agricultural rich lands of Manjimup (it also home to the pink lady apple) are just ahead of the more arid municipality of Palmerston (3.93 dwellings required for every 100 people), the planned satellite city next to Darwin followed by the WA town of Geraldton, 430 kilometres north of Perth, a beneficiary of the mining boom where a major iron ore terminal is located. Geraldton has a dwelling shortage of 791 for its 21,000 population.
The median house price in Manjimup is $265,000, according to Australian Property Monitors.
A kilogram of Manjimup truffles is worth around $2,000 – last season the biggest truffle unearthed weighed 348 grams.
Manjimup truffles are sought as far afield as Manhattan restaurants and in eateries in France and Germany, with truffle season running for three months from June until September.
According to realestate.com.au, there are 248 Manjimup properties for sale, including <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-mixed+farming-wa-manjimup-7324305">this 55-hectare farm featuring a three bedroom residence</a>. Listed for sale by Rodney Musulin of Primaries Real Estate for $970,000, it is “ideal for most horticulture pursuits, including highly prized truffles and avocados”.
<img src="/images/stories/truff.jpg" width="470">
The list includes two suburbs close to the Perth CBD – Subiaco, which ranks sixth on the list with a shortage intensity of 3.383 and 611 homes, and eight-placed South Perth, with a shortage intensity of 3.048 and 1,386 homes.
In absolute terms, Joondalup, about 16 kilometres north of Perth has the highest shortage of houses at 3,955 a shortage intensity of 2.38 houses for every 100 people.
Top 30 LGA government areas where a housing shortage exists
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
LGA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Dwelling shortage
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
Population
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
Median house price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
Shortage intensity
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Manjimup
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
399
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
10,126
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$265,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.94
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Palmerston
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
NT
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
1,268
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
32,285
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$465,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.928
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Geraldton
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
791
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
21,361
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$280,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.703
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Litchfield
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
NT
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
753
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
20,389
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$571,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.693
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Darwin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
NT
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2,684
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
79,338
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$550,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.383
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Subiaco
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
611
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
19,674
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$970,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.106
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Bunbury
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
1,087
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
35,614
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$340,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.052
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
South Perth
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
1,386
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
45,469
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$727,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.048
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Claremont
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
303
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
10,065
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$1.2 m
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3.010
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Kalgoorlie/Boulder
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
968
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
33,319
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$319,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.905
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
North Burnett
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
311
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
10,839
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.869
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Banana
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
427
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
15,542
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$270,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.747
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Melville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2,835
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
103,687
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$670,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.734
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Fremantle
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
785
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
29,318
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$640,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.678
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Broome
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
448
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
17,081
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$675,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.623
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Mundaring
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
1,021
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
39,753
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$450,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.568
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Northern Grampians
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Vic
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
309
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
12,158
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$150,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.542
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Gannawarra
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Vic
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
292
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
11,522
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$153,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.538
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Mount Isa
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
563
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
22,186
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$349,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.534
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Western Downs
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
818
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
32,727
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$295,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.499
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Hinchinbrook
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
298
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
12,240
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$255,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.435
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Albany
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
904
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
37,207
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$375,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.430
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Cambridge
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
667
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
27,552
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$1.01m
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.421
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Central Goldfields
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Vic
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
308
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
12,854
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$185,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.396
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Berri &amp; Barmera
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
268
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
11,259
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$187,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.380
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Joondalup
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
3,995
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
166,370
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$525,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.377
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Eurobodalla
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
915
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
38,607
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$350,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.370
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Scenic Rim
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
955
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
40,304
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$390,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.369
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Goondiwindi
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Qld
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
274
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
11,646
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$261,250
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.353
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="151">
Vincent
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
758
</td>
<td valign="top" width="99">
32,228
</td>
<td valign="top" width="97">
$600,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="93">
2.352
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: HIA, median house prices provided by APM.
 
 
 
 
 
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Australia’s truffle capital, Manjimup, WA, has mushrooming housing shortage: HIA

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Western Australian Treasurer and Attorney-General Christian Porter says a flat housing market has cost the state government an estimated $836 million in projected stamp duty over the next four years.
In his budget speech to Parliament he said “transfer duty forecasts in this budget have been revised down by $836 million, reflecting ongoing weakness in the housing market”.
Porter told Fairfax Media house buyers were waiting for the market to bottom out.
“You would hope that it would improve, but right now there is not movement,” he said.
“Buyers still think that the bubble that burst after 2005 and 2006’s extraordinary growth has not yet quite reached the bottom.”
Budget papers show transfer duty was about $1.2 billion for both 2010-11 and 2011-12, a figure expected to go up 17.7% to $1.45 billion for 2012-13. The government predicts a 17.7% rise to $1.45 billion next year, with the start of a recovery in the market.
The budget Porter presented says transfer volumes has been low in recent years but is expected to improve.
“Housing transfer duty has suffered from weak established housing transaction volumes and house prices in recent years, with average monthly transactions since 2008-09 around  35% lower than the previous four years.”
“However, transfer duty is expected to improve over coming years in line with a forecast recovery in housing demand.”
In the budget, Porter concedes the estimate for actual income from stamp duty may change.
“Property transactions are highly susceptible to fluctuations in market sentiment and are therefore highly volatile and difficult to forecast.”
“The current transfer duty forecasts are balanced against the risk of continued weakness in the housing market and the risk that market sentiment could quickly change and cause  a faster than expected recovery in transaction volumes,” he says.
In the budget he says property transaction volumes are expected to improve along with a modest increase in residential property prices.
“Transaction volumes are expected to move toward a long-run trend over the forecast period, while residential property prices are forecast to increase at a modest rate broadly in line with the expected growth in incomes (of around 5-6% per annum).”
Porter expects in four years, transfer duties will be at lower levels than before the global financial crisis.
Despite the fall in revenue Porter has kept stamp duty concessions for first-home buyers. The concession waives duty on properties under $500,000.
REIWA president David Airey says the concession is needed to support the housing market. He says first-time buyers are one of the few groups active in the current market.
“I’m pleased to see the government has retained its stamp duty concession for first-home buyers, because this has been successful in maintaining first-home buyers at around 25 to 27% of the market over the past 12 months,” he says.
“The importance of the stamp duty concession for first home-buyers in the modest market recovery currently being experienced cannot be underestimated.
“REIWA analysis of the budget papers indicates that, as usual, property buyers will carry much of the burden of the shortfall in GST revenues as the government, by not indexing thresholds, reaps the windfall gain from projected price and sales volume increases.”
He says he is disappointed there are no stamp duty concessions for older citizens looking to downsize their housing, saying it’s a lost opportunity to free up housing capacity at a time when supply is tight.
He says the Perth rental market is under enormous pressure caused by a growing population, low vacancy rates and increasing rents.
The government has committed $130 million towards construction of social housing dwellings over the next two years.
Western Australian Council of Social Services CEO Irina Cattalini welcomed the construction investment but says it falls short of demand.
"While the housing initiatives are welcome, the overall investment in social housing will not do enough to reduce the time people are stuck on the social housing waiting list – which has grown from 113 weeks last financial year and will continue to increase to 134 weeks in 2012-13," Cattalini told Perth Now.
 
 
 
 
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Flat WA property market could cost state government $836 million in lost stamp duty: Treasurer

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The 1902 Fremantle landmark the Elder Building has been listed for sale at $5 million with an adjoining separate vacant block available at $2 million. The block would be suitable for a four-storey building, according to the listing agent.
The stately Federation Free Classical offering had a $9.5 million asking price in 2010.
The building with a limestone façade and Melbourne bluestone is topped off with a copper-clad, domed turret designed for the merchants and shipping agents Dalgety &amp; Co by Western Australian architect J.J Talbot Hobbs.
The land had been purchased from George Shenton, the Perth lord mayor between 1886 and 1888.
The ship lookout at the top on the top of the tower is 21 metres above the pavement.
Costing £40,000 and then representing the largest contract let privately in the state for a building, it is highly representative of 19th-century shipping offices with the grand business hall.
Frederick Gonnerman Dalgety had arrived in Sydney in 1834 before moving to Melbourne in 1842 as manager of the new firm. Dalgety prospered especially during the Victorian gold rush in the early 1850s, returning to England in 1854 to establish the headquarters of a metropolitan-colonial enterprise dealing mainly with Victorian pastoral companies. Dalgety &amp; Co. continued to grow after the founder died in 1894.
Its ownership was transferred in 1927 to the agribusiness Elder Smith &amp; Co and became known as the Elder Building.
During WWII it was requisitioned by the Australian Navy as its administration and intelligence headquarters.
It housed the Norwegian shipping company, Wilhelmsen Line, for 23 years and more recently Challenger TAFE. Ale Nominees sold it to the current investment syndicate in 2002.
A mixed-use residential and commercial development would be possible, says listing agent Fleur Barrett at O'Byrne Estate Agents Fremantle.
The 1,700-square-metre building on a 1,484-square-metre site could be refurbished as a private residence, converted to a boutique hotel, or made into an art gallery with artists' studios and accommodation for artists in residence.
It’s set at the corner of Phillimore and Cliff Streets.
Another 1902 Talbot Hobbs designed Cliff Street building, the Samson Bond store building, was converted into 13 luxury apartments in 2007.
 
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Fremantle’s 1902 Elder Building listed with $5 million hopes

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Kennebunkport, the Western Australian beachfront retreat of the property developer Warren Anderson and his former wife, Cheryl, has been listed with revised $5.2 million-plus hopes.
The six-bedroom home has direct beach access, high ceilings and jarrah floors. It has an upstairs sitting room with fireplace and library. The 2,261-square-metre Fern Road grounds come with a tennis court. Its wide balcony takes in the views of Eagle Bay.
Peter De Chiera of Stocker Preston has the listing, which takes its named from the historical harbour and resort town in Maine, USA, which is the summer home of the US presidential Bush family.
The property was put in the hands of receivers after the internecine collapse of the Anderson family trust, Owston Nominees No 2. The house had $12 million initial hopes on its 2009 listing. The trust paid $420,000 in 1989 for the block.
Anderson <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/property-developer-warren-anderson-goes-quietly-this-time-departing-fernhill-after-three-decades/2011112452520" target="_blank">vacated Fernhill</a>, his historic mansion at Mulgoa in Sydney's outer west, under court order after being <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/property-developer-warren-anderson-goes-quietly-this-time-departing-fernhill-after-three-decades/2011112452520" target="_blank">declared bankrupt</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/eaglebay1.jpg">
Eagle Bay's record price stands at $5.9 million when Brent Allan bought Jahangir (pictured above), his non-beachfront hillside five bedroom house on a 2,000-square-metre holding in 2009.
 
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Warren Anderson’s WA beachfront retreat Kennebunkport's revised pricing: Title Tattle

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The steep decline in Perth house price until mid-2011 slowed noticeably in the second half of the year, and property analysts are in agreement that the market is bottoming out and close to rebounding.

Century 21’s Charles Tarbey says supply and demand in the Perth residential market are starting to meet.  

“Although there has been a large median price drop, this is not reflected in activity.  There are still many cashed-up investors looking for properties,” he says.

Louis Christopher describes Perth as being “on the verge of a recovery”.

“The market has changed a lot. Stock has peaked, vacancy rates are tightening, and things are fairly positive,” he says.

Property valuer WBP believes Perth is already beginning to turn around due to the supply of houses falling and an increase in demand from first-home buyers.
<img src="/images/stories/clockperthhouses.jpg">
Time: Six o'clock
“Investors are slowly returning to the market, and there has been a recent increase in the median rental price being achieved.

“Yields have continued to increase as prices fell in the December quarter,” says WBP.

Preliminary data from the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s February 2012 survey show the quarterly vacancy rate (for both houses and units) for the three months to February 2012 sits at 2.5%.
Population: 1.7 million
Median house price: $460,000
House price growth in February 2012: -1.8%
Annual house price growth to December 2011: -4.3%
Annual house price growth to July 2011: -7.1%
Rental yield: 4.2%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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Perth house market bottoming out at six o'clock: Experts

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Perth unit prices fell more rapidly during the second half of 2011 than during the first half, but most property analysts maintain a fairly bullish outlook for the sector.

Charles Tarbey believes Perth unit prices are close to bottoming out and believes the supply of Perth units is close to matching the demand for these properties.

Tarbey says sales activity remains strong, as does interest from “cashed-up investors” looking for apartments close to the city.
<img src="/images/stories/clockperthhouses.jpg">
Time: Six o'clock
Tarbey says stock levels in Perth have been significantly lower during the past couple of months as a result of properties being withdrawn from the market and of a backlog of properties being cleared. 

“I suspect the latter is more responsible – sales for the December quarter were high, and sales over January and February have been significantly higher.  And we are now on the cusp of entering the autumn season, which is traditionally a very busy time for real estate sales,” Tarbey says.

Tarbey says he has also noted a decline in vacancy rates across the properties that Century 21 manages in Perth.

Preliminary data from the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s February 2012 survey shows the quarterly vacancy rate (for both houses and units) for the three months to February sitting at 2.5%.
Population: 1.7 million
Median unit price: $390,000
Unit price growth in February 2012: -2%
Annual unit price growth to December 2011: -4.2%
Annual unit price growth to July 2011: -2.9%
Rental yield: 4.8%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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Perth unit market at six o'clock, with experts fairly bullish

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Marsala House, the fabulous Brutalist Iwan Iwanov-designed Perth house that is the youngest property to be enshrined on the Western Australian heritage list, has been listed for sale.
Owners Mark Etherton and Christopher Beer bought the then deteriorating house in 2005 for $725,000 and embarked on a massive restoration project. The result quickly re-established Marsala House as one of Iwanov’s most idiosyncratic explorations of Australia’s late 20th-century Brutalist style, a movement that includes iconic Canberra buildings including the High Court of Australia and the Australian National Gallery.
Known locally in Dianella as the Disco House, its won a WA Heritage Award for outstanding conservation of a residential building.
“There is a richness to the brutalist style,” says Etherton. “The way the light plays on it and the texture that is revealed in the harsh Australian sun that makes this house so special to live in.”
Built in 1976 for the Marsala family, the project pushed the boundaries of concrete block contemporary design while the inside was heavily influenced by Las Vegas overstatement.
Now the interior is a wonderful tribute to groovy 1970s style.
The three bathrooms are tiled with Bisassa mosaics while the formal dining room has a full bar with backlighting in the cabinets, and the “disco” room remains a bizarre but chic nod to its era. A kidney-shaped pool graces the back garden.
It is expected that house will sell through listing agent Paul Tonich of Altitude Real Estate for about $2 million.
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Perth’s Iwan Iwanov-designed Brutalist Marsala House listed for sale

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There were 521 sales in Perth for the week ended April 12, down 16% from the 617 recorded the same week last year. However, the Easter long weekend fell later in April in 2011.
<img src="/images/stories/reiwaapril12.gif">
 
 
 
 
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Perth records 16% fewer sales than same week last year: REIWA

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Perth rents are expected to keep rising as vacancy rates remain low and tenants face increased competition for houses, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia.
Median rents have increased to $420 a week during the March quarter, up 10% from the same time last year, REIWA figures show, but there are reports of many potential tenants offering $50 to $100 more a week to secure a lease.
Earlier this year callers to ABC radio's 720 morning program told of 30 to 40 people turning up to open homes only to find out later the successful applicant had offered significantly more than the advertised price.
REIWA President David Airey told the ABC that while it's not illegal and landlords are unlikely to reject the extra money, it's not a practice he encourages.
Managing director of Stockland Matthew Quinn says suburban Perth had once been one of the softer rental markets in Australia but vacancy rates in Stockland projects there have fallen to less than 1%.
"Rents are going through the roof, just ask anybody who's tried to rent a house in Perth in the last six months – it is a nightmare," says Quinn.
Quinn predicts the housing shortage will lead to a rental crisis. He says massive queues of house-hunters at rental inspections will drive rental prices up.
"It's already happening and it's going to happen in greater and greater numbers because housing is undersupplied, it's unaffordable and rents are now going up."
Properties for sale outnumber those for rent by more than three to one in many Perth suburbs, recent RP Data figures show.
Rental vacancies reached a four-year low during February – dropping from 2.3% to just 1.6% according to REIWA, a drop of 700 houses.
The institute's data show the metropolitan vacancy rate at 1.9% for the first three months of the year, but during the months of February and March alone it dropped to 1.6%. Airey says a vacancy rate of 3% indicates a balanced market.
"The overall median rent for Perth is now $420 per week, which breaks down to $425 for a house or $400 for a unit, villa or townhouse," Airey says.
"REIWA data show that the stock level for rental accommodation has improved by 12% since the start of March, in sharp contrast to the 28% fall during January and February.
"The good news for tenants is that the vacancy rate does not appear to be dropping any further and seasonal demand is levelling off."
Airey says while there is strong demand for accommodation Perth will avoid the rental crisis of March 2007.
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