Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

Joel Robinson

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

&nbsp;

Developer GURNER™ Group has revealed $1.65 billion in residential sales nationally across the 12 months to December 2025, driven largely by the continued momentum of its Docklands wellness-focused precinct, Elysium Fields.

The sales result was generated across seven projects in Victoria and New South Wales, headlined by Elysium Fields, GURNER™’s $2.75 billion mixed-use precinct planned for Harbour Esplanade in Docklands.

The project has recorded more than $500 million in sales across the first three towers, equating to around 580 apartments sold.

The first tower, Helios, has now sold out of its 240 private residences, with GURNER™ preparing to release a premium penthouse collection comprising 15 three-bedroom penthouses in coming weeks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370975]

Elysium Fields is being developed on the long-held 20,000 sqm Docklands site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade, which had remained undeveloped for more than two decades prior to GURNER™ taking over the project around four years ago.

Construction has now commenced across four towers ranging between 18 and 30 storeys, with Hamilton Marino and Maxcon appointed as builders.

Once complete, the precinct is expected to comprise around 1,100 residences, alongside retail, hospitality and public realm uses integrated throughout the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370981]

Designed by Fraser &amp; Partners in collaboration with GURNER™ Design House, the project has been positioned around the developer’s broader focus on wellness-led residential living.

“We don’t sell apartments. We create a true luxury lifestyle that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere in the market today,” Founder and Executive Chairman Tim Gurner said.

“To deliver that requires an extraordinary level of detail, coordination and discipline across multiple verticals, from design and hospitality through to wellness and service.”

“We’ve always believed that living extends far beyond the physical residence. It’s about how you feel the moment you arrive, how you live day-to-day, and the ecosystem that supports that.” 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370977]

The project’s design places a heavy focus on landscaping, wellness amenities and biophilic design principles.

Plans include around 3,700 sqm of landscaped gardens and open space throughout the precinct, alongside a retail and dining offering spanning approximately 5,000 sqm.

The broader public realm strategy centres around what GURNER™ describes as the “Path of Life”, an urban forest and landscaped pedestrian environment intended to connect the various buildings and wellness spaces across the precinct.

The apartments themselves will incorporate a range of wellness-focused inclusions, including purified air and water systems, circadian lighting, antimicrobial surfaces, and optional in-home wellness upgrades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370980]

Gurner said the company’s experience through its Saint Haven wellness clubs had directly informed the residential offering now being incorporated into Elysium Fields.

“We’re seeing a clear global shift toward longevity, performance and proactive health,” Gurner said.

“Our role is to deliver that in a way that feels seamless, highly private and beautifully resolved within the environments we create.”

A large component of the wellness offering is planned through the resident amenity and health facilities proposed within the precinct.

That includes plans for bathing and recovery facilities spread throughout the towers, incorporating mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, flotation therapy, red light therapy and wellness lounges.

The developer is also seeking approvals for what it describes as a “reverse ageing medical clinic” within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370978]

According to project information released by the group, the proposed facility would include cryotherapy, IV infusion therapy, infrared and dry saunas, PEMF beds, MRIs, DEXA scans, brain scans and blood analysis services.

Within the first tower, Helios, residents will also have access to a dedicated amenity offering known as the Sky Private Club.

The upper 15 levels of the building will include private lounges, dining spaces, rooftop amenities and optional private wellness studios integrated within residences.

The Helios tower itself comprises 260 apartments ranging between 60 sqm and 300 sqm, including a collection of penthouses.

That includes a planned two-storey penthouse spanning around 600 sqm with uninterrupted bay views.

The Elysium Fields precinct is being delivered in partnership with Digital Harbour Holdings, a consortium that includes the Liberman family, which controls the development rights across the Docklands site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370979]

The sales result comes as GURNER™ continues expanding its national development pipeline beyond Victoria.

“We have a strong pipeline across Australia and are now focused on scaling into key markets including New South Wales and Queensland, while continuing to build on our Melbourne base,” Gurner said.

“We currently have more than $3 billion in the market, growing to over $5 billion by October, and expect to materially outperform last year in the 2026 calendar year.”

The result also reflects the continued strength of the upper-end apartment market in Melbourne, particularly for owner-occupier-focused product with large-scale amenity and lifestyle offerings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144441]

Record result anchored by the Group’s “utopian” Elysium Fields precinct – defying market headwinds in Docklands.

Elysium Fields drive Gurner to $1.65 billion in apartment sales over 2025

National Australia Bank (NAB) will fund <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a>, a $1 billion, 52-level luxury residential tower being developed by Central Equity in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held coastal locations at Northcliffe.

The project, launched recently by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a>, one of Victoria’s largest private residential developers, comes at a time when construction funding for large residential developments has become increasingly competitive as lenders tighten exposure to the sector.

Multiplex has been appointed the builder, and construction is now underway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365784]

Since its first project, Central Equity has delivered more than 85 residential developments with a combined end value exceeding $8 billion.

Palmera reflects Central Equity’s growing focus on the Gold Coast luxury apartment market and continues a relationship between Central Equity and NAB that dates back to the late 1980s, when the bank funded one of Melbourne’s earliest inner-city residential towers at a time when high-rise apartment living in the CBD was largely unproven.

“NAB’s funding of Central Equity’s $36 million CBD development in the late 1980’s to the financing of the billion-dollar tower today highlights the long-term relationship between the two organisations in delivering major residential projects” said Central Equity Founder and Chairman Eddie Kutner.

He said NAB’s early support was instrumental in helping establish the company’s development model.

“When we commenced our first residential tower in the late 1980s the concept of funding off-the-plan apartments was still largely untested in Australia,” Kutner said.

“NAB recognised the opportunity early and supported the project when others were uncertain. That relationship has now continued for more than 37 years across many developments.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Central Equity was established in 1987 when Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank precinct were still dominated by warehouses and commercial buildings. Fewer than 100 residents lived in Southbank at the time, and large-scale residential development in the inner city was not widely considered.

Recognising changing demographics and lifestyle preferences, the company began developing high-rise residential projects designed to bring permanent residents into the city centre.

Central Equity has provided accommodation for approximately 40,000 residents across Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank, while also incorporating supporting infrastructure including essential lifestyle facilities like retail spaces, childcare facilities and neighbourhood activity centres.

Central Equity has spent many years assembling the Palmera development site on the corner of Garfield Terrace and Frederick Street in Northcliffe, creating a supersite of around 3,300 sqm.

The developer said the Palmera apartment tower reflects its long-term view of the Gold Coast as a growing and increasingly diversified economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365768]

Supported by infrastructure including the light rail network, major road upgrades expanded education, hospital and medical facilities and continued expansion at the Gold Coast Airport with more international and domestic flights.

Positioned in the tightly held Northcliffe precinct, the 52-level tower will deliver 347 apartments, targeting buyers seeking a high-end coastal lifestyle, from downsizers to interstate investors.

Designed by Marchese Partners with interiors by DBI, Palmera has been conceived as a next-generation residential offering, featuring a collection of oversized apartments, with premium three-bedroom residences offering sweeping northern views stretching from Surfers Paradise through to Burleigh Heads.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

NAB funds $1 billion Surfers Paradise apartment development, Palmera

Two years after completing one of the newest developments in North Sydney, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> is turning its attention to the rapidly evolving St Leonards apartment market.

The developer, which completed AURA by Aqualand on North Sydney's Walker Street, has lodged plans for a 5,918 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-37-herbert-street-st-leonards-nsw-2065">33-37 Herbert Street, St Leonards,</a> seeking approval for a pair of residential towers rising above a shared podium opposite Royal North Shore Hospital.

The proposal forms part of the broader transformation underway across the St Leonards-Crows Nest precinct, where former industrial and commercial sites are increasingly being redeveloped into high-density mixed-use projects tied to major transport infrastructure.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cc428cf-fe70-4cac-9cd5-264ad53af62c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=otKSnHtbjAvAddOnovyXQMgcAwE6DMe1" />

According to the planning documents, the site sits “within the St Leonards–Crows Nest Strategic Centre, identified by the NSW Government as a key area for accommodating future jobs and housing across Sydney.”

The proposal has been designed by fjcstudio, formerly FJMT Studio, and is being progressed through the State Significant Development pathway due to its scale and affordable housing provision.

The scheme would comprise 413 apartments, including 46 affordable housing units, alongside retail and commercial uses fronting Herbert Street. The project would also include communal open space, landscaping, a swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s play areas and podium-level resident amenities.

Planning documents show the development would consist of a part-13, part-39 storey tower form positioned above a four-storey podium.

“The development comprises a unified podium that activates the street interface, and two setback towers to accommodate new housing supply while maintaining an appropriate human scale at ground level,” fjcstudio noted in its Design Report.

The northern and southern towers have been shaped to respond to the surrounding skyline while also limiting overshadowing impacts to nearby public open space, particularly Talus Reserve.

The design report said the differing tower heights were intended to “contribute to a varied skyline while responding to the surrounding built form context and solar access considerations.”

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36da62dc-ff9e-41f2-a7e3-7be38373751c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.45%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=Mo6Rp2r.XRLTzIfg_PEEpw8NepDH8UBs" />

The site sits directly opposite Royal North Shore Hospital and within walking distance of both St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

While the site itself sits just outside the formal Crows Nest Transport Oriented Development boundary, the planning documents repeatedly reference its alignment with the broader TOD objectives reshaping the Lower North Shore.

“The site is located adjacent to St Leonards Station and in close proximity to Crows Nest Metro which is within the Crows Nest Transit Orientated Development Accelerated Precinct which has been identified by the NSW Government to support housing delivery,” the Design Verification Statement noted.

According to fjcstudio, the project has been designed to respond to the broader transition occurring across St Leonards, where increasing residential density is being concentrated around transport infrastructure and employment hubs.

“The broader precinct is undergoing significant change, with a mix of existing mid-rise buildings and newer high-density developments,” the report stated.

“Recent and approved projects indicate a consistent shift toward taller built form, typically organised as tower-and-podium typologies with more active ground levels.”

The proposal includes close to 6,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across the ground floor and podium levels, designed to create a more activated street edge along Herbert Street.

Aqualand’s plans would also introduce a landscaped podium shared between the two towers, with communal open space in the form of a podium rooftop designed to support resident interaction and improve urban greening outcomes. The scheme would also introduce pocket parks at the northern and southern ends of the site, including a landscaped area at the corner of Herbert and Ella streets designed to improve pedestrian amenity and soften the streetscape.

&nbsp;

The proposal is being progressed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, which was introduced to accelerate housing supply across the state. The application was declared State Significant Development in April 2025 following an expression of interest process.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="faf6d97d-2671-454f-b85a-fe1c6a7be608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=diVd28OBVr5.YV.7prrOz.uAanwwwm7a" />

St Leonards has been particularly active with new developments in recent weeks. Developer SP Setia’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-sp-setia-targets-st-leonards-skyline-with-40-storey-tod-tower">plans for a new 42-storey tower</a> recently went on exhibition through the same pathway, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">Stockland’s 52-storey tower proposal</a> was also recently unveiled.

Aside from the St Leonards project, which is expected to take around nine months to move through the approvals process ahead of a potential 2027 launch, Aqualand is also preparing to launch Boronia, a new apartment project in Roseville comprising around 111 apartments on Larkin Street.

The developer also has approvals in place for the next stage of the Barangaroo precinct, which will feature new residential, retail, hospitality and community uses, alongside a new metro entry across the five-hectare site.

More than 50 new retail destinations are planned for Central Barangaroo, alongside a 270-metre-long boulevard connecting Hickson Park to Nawi Cove. Together with Harbour Park, more than 50 per cent of the precinct will comprise public open space and parkland.

First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party

Roberts Co has entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Arada, one of the world’s fastest-growing property developers in Australia.

The acquisition is supported by a $50 million capital injection into Roberts Co’s Australian balance sheet, consisting of the previously announced $25 million recapitalisation and an additional $25 million in new funding from Arada.

This investment strengthens Roberts Co’s financial position, stabilises operations, and provides the foundation for strategic expansion beyond its New South Wales base, with a focus on new opportunities in Queensland, including the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions.

With Arada’s international resources and financial backing, Roberts Co will broaden its portfolio across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors, reinforcing its strong market position in New South Wales and setting itself to capture growth in one of Australia’s most dynamic construction markets.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said Roberts Co has a proud Australian heritage, an outstanding delivery record, and a strong reputation for collaboration with clients and partners.

"By combining this expertise with Arada’s global scale and financial capacity, we are creating a platform for sustained growth in the Australian market,"&nbsp;Alkhoshaibi said.

“Our $50 million capital injection, including new funds from Arada, underlines our commitment to both stabilise and expand Roberts Co’s operations, particularly into the fast-growing Queensland market. We see significant potential in South-East Queensland’s pipeline and are confident Roberts Co is well placed to deliver lasting value for clients and communities.”

George Kostas, CEO of Roberts Co, said Queensland, and particularly South-East Queensland, is one of the most active and opportunity-rich regions in Australia right now.

"The lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games will bring unprecedented investment across housing, transport, and infrastructure. Roberts Co is eager to play a major role in that transformation and secure a meaningful share of this fast-growing market.”

Arada pours more funds into Roberts Co, flags expansion into South East Queensland construction market

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Stockland has launched a $640 million masterplanned community in the Wyndham growth corridor, 31 kilometres west of Melbourne.
Marketing for The Grove begins 17 November for what will be the first of 2,500 new homes in Tarneit.
The first residents in the 234-hectare community are expected in the second half of 2016. 
The Grove will offer completed homes, house and land packages along with medium density housing.
There will be 54 hectares of parkland on a site bordered by the Werribee River and Davis Creek.
Residents will have easy access to the city via the Werribee train line and the new Regional Rail Link, which is due to open in April next year.
The announcement came a day after Stockland revealed its best residential sales quarter in four years.
Its results were buoyed by improved profits from its residential business which achieved a 12.5% increase in lot sales and ended the year with a record number of contracts in hand. 
The new community at The Grove will include a 3.8-hectare town centre with a neighbourhood shopping centre. 
Stockland will build a retirement village and will set aside land for new primary and secondary schools.
The Wyndham Local Government Area is one of the fastest growing corridors in Australia. In the year to June 2013, the population of the Wyndham corridor increased by around 10,800 people, representing a 6% growth rate.
Stockland general manager residential for Victoria, Mike Davis, said Stockland was well known to most people in the area because of the Allura residential community at Truganina, Point Cook Town Centre and Tarneit Skies Retirement Village.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Stockland launch The Grove in Melbourne's growth corridor

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The eight level, 34-room octagonal-shaped Hotel Saville in South Yarra has been purchased by the production company of Channel 9’s The Block.
The $6.25 million sale had been <a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-block-south-yarra-octagonal-hotel-saville-mystery">suspected since June</a>, but confirmed only late last week with the Watercress Production Pty Ltd settlement documents seen by Property Observer.
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20three.jpg" alt="">
The $6.25 million purchase through Colliers International accompanied the $1.1 million purchase of the nearby 446 square metre vacant block at 270 Punt Road which was used as a hotel car park.
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/on-the-market-hotel-saville-a-piece-of-the-south-yarra-skyline">The property was sold with a permit for 51 apartments</a>, but could be possibly expected to be converted into eight luxe apartments with common areas.
The 3.5 star Hotel Saville of South Yarra, with first floor restaurant, which had been trading under various names since its opened in the early 1970s, closed in August. Quest Windsor was recommended on the sign on the front door.
With 360 degree views, the property is located at<a href="https://rca.colliers.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+yarra-501125927" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> 1-5 Commercial Road</a>, near busy Punt Road.
The property was marketed by Colliers as a "premium opportunity well suited to residential developers, hotel/motel developers, home owners and investors".
There was brief consideration of its conversion into strata apartments in 2005 by PAZ Investments. Apartments were marketed from $149,000. In 2010 Paras Bros had an option to purchase. In 2011 there was a $16 million proposal by Longreach Investments that involved construction of a new SJB-designed 10 storey building comprising 74 dwellings, 77 car parking spaces and 84 bicycle spaces along with a convenience shop and food and drink cafe with 77 seats that did not get approval.
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20one.jpg" alt="">
Watercress's next series of The Block is on Darling Street, South Yarra.
Their Brenchley Architects plans were lodged for a $2.4 million development application for the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unitblock-vic-south+yarra-116269171" target="_blank">South Yarra</a> property (below). It seems set to be the location of the 10th series which will follow the recent The Block Glasshouse series in Prahran.
The current 12-unit block at 27 Darling Street, South Yarra, will be four luxury triple-storey townhouses.
Watercress paid $5.7 million for the Darling Street site.
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20five.jpg" alt="">
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Confirmed! The Block makes octagonal South Yarra hotel reservation

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When you’re listing a residential property, there’s usually plenty to run with.
A beautiful front façade image in the dim light with all the porch lights on? Gorgeous.
An outdoors verandah near the pool where you can place a, debatably effective, bottle of wine? It has been done.
But what do the experts opt for when it’s just a simple block of land? We decided to have a look.
This first offering – <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-nsw-inverell-7687479" target="_blank">Monatana in New South Wales’ Inverell</a> – is a series of blocks offered through Landmark Harcourts. They’ve done a great job at the opening photo (below), with an evocative picture of a boat on the river, and use their gallery to show off the features of the land blocks. Dams, scrub and even a tent feature in the images.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/inverell%20oct%2027.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile, Spencer Woods Real Estate – Northcote are advertising <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-estate-vic-wallan-200739767" target="_blank">the last three blocks of land in a Wallan estate</a>. They include just one picture – of generic grass (below).
The land, priced from $105,000 to $115,000 for over 500 square metre offerings, can also be bought together but advertise themselves to first home buyers.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/wallan%20oct%2027%20one.jpg" alt="">
Wilson Property RCI – Traralgon, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-estate-vic-traralgon-200442679%20" target="_blank">now selling stage five</a>, has another approach. Providing an overhead image of the lots available (below), and the masterplans and all associated information, it appears they’re aiming for detail rather than evoking the dream.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/traralgon%20oct%2027%20one.jpg" alt="">
Some of the “cheapest land” in South Australia’s Terowie – at $3,500 for a 1,000 square metre block – <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-sa-terowie-201003947%20%20" target="_blank">is up for sale</a>. The images share a somewhat drying looking block (below), but also provide a shot of the plan and aerial imagery.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-sa-terowie-201003947"><img src="/images/2014/10/27/terowie%20oct%2027%20one.jpg" alt=""></a>  
Other common ways to advertise land or land releases include an image of the sign of the development, a map of the masterplan, or a generic stock photo of a family either on play equipment, at a café or at the park.
{mijopolls 58}
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The best way to advertise blocks of land: Poll

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The 65 acre, 820-lot masterplanned development Habitat on Davis Creek will launch this weekend.
Located in the western Melbourne suburb of Tarneit, the development will feature 14 hectares of open space.
Habitat on Davis Creek will be the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/satterley-property-group-launches-two-new-developments-in-melbourne-s-west">second residential development launched this month from Satterley Property Group</a> in Melbourne’s west, following Upper Point Cook’s release three weeks ago where 35 lots sold within the first three hours of launching.
Habitat on Davis Creek will launch on Sunday 26 October with house and land packages available from $300,000, to upwards of $450,000. The sale is on a first come first served basis, with 38 lots to be released.
Satterley’s Victorian general manager said that the development provides affordable housing and will be at the forefront of the Riverdale Precinct Structure Plan, including a proposed Riverdale town centre, future train station, school and local town centre.
“The precinct plan outlines the vision and delivery of new infrastructure and how Tarneit will support the expected population increase of 25,000 new residents over the next 20 years,” he said.
“The proposed new suburb or Riverdale will see 12,000 new homes, as well as a raft of new infrastructure projects, such as a transit-ready major town centre, sporting facilities, more than twenty neighbourhood parks, three primary schools, and a secondary school injected into the area.”
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Masterplanned development in Tarneit, Melbourne to launch this weekend

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The Grand Designs Live Home Show begins tomorrow in Melbourne at the Convention and Exhibition Centre, luring fans of the show, renovators and home improvement aficionados.
Areas at <a href="https://granddesignslive.com.au" target="_blank">Grand Designs Live</a> include kitchens, bathrooms, interiors, outdoors, sustainability, building and technology.
The Lifestyle Channel Grand Theatre will host talks from Kevin McCloud, Peter Maddison, Shaynna Blaze, Andrew Winter, Veronica Morgan, Bryce Holdaway and Charlie Albone.
Blaze will cover decorating in small spaces, Winter will be discussing how to sell your home for the right price and Holdaway will be presenting his top seven tips for buying at auction.
Book signings and prizes will be up for grabs.
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Grand Designs Live Melbourne begins tomorrow

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The Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2014 looks to improve standards, introduce a new dispute resolution procedure and create a Building Consumer Protection Fund to protect property buyers from insolvent or dodgy builders.
The Victorian Parliament has been urged to pass these new laws by Consumer Action chief executive Gerard Brody.
Currently, those who have an issue with a builder are covered under the home building warranty insurance scheme.  However, this scheme only covers them in the case of an incomplete or dodgy build if the builder is dies, disappears or becomes insolvent. It does not cover them for if they are deregistered, have their registrations suspended or when a rectification order is issued.
This new Bill aims to cover the shortfall, explained Brody, noting that the law has been in development since 2012.
“Home building warranty insurance has long been referred to as junk insurance because it’s so hard to claim. Not only do consumers have to spend thousands of dollars to be successful at VCAT, they then have to take action to wind up a builder before any claim can be made,” he said.
“The proposed new fund would ensure consumers have a remedy when there is uncompensated loss as a result of a building dispute.”
The success of the proposed law depends on the Victorian Building Authority’s (VBA) willingness to take enforcement action.
“The proposed law would mean independent inspectors from the VBA could make binding Rectification Orders to settle disputes. This should mean that consumers don’t have to go to VCAT, which has proven to be an expensive and inappropriate forum for many building disputes,” he said.
“The current system is broken—dodgy or insolvent builders can leave families with unsafe or unfinished homes and there is very little that can be done about it. Often they’re tens of thousands of dollars out of pocket and are left with an uninhabitable house.”
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Victorian Parliament urged to pass domestic building consumer protections

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Tasmanian brothers Simon and Shannon Vos took out the $100,000 prize at the auctions of The Block Glasshouse.
With a $1.9 million sale, the duo earned $335,000 over their adjusted reserve of $1.565 million.
All five of the apartments at The Block sold at auction, though they didn't approach the bullish results at the Albert Park warehouse in The Block Fans v Faves earlier this year.
Rookies Chris and Jenna, who had the largest floor space of any of the six apartments, came in second place with a $1.81 million price.
The full results:
<ol>
<li>Simon and Shannon, 2/125 High Street: $1.9 million ($335,000 over reserve)</li>
<li>Chris and Jenna, 2/121-127 High Street: $1.81 million ($310,000 over reserve)</li>
<li>Maxine and Karstan, 3/121-127 High Street: $1.71 million ($40,000 over reserve)</li>
<li>Michael and Carlene, 1/125 High Street: $1.39 million ($10,000 over reserve)</li>
<li>Deanne and Darren, 6/121 High Street: $1.38 million ($10,000 over reserve)</li>
</ol>
Yet again, it seemed that the auction order played a role in the final results. This time, the highest priced apartment went under the hammer second, Chris and Jenna's was auctioned first, and sales price dwindled from there.
Michael and Carlene chose to go last. Deanne and Darren, who had second choice, did went as late as they could, choosing to go to auction fourth.
Simon and Shannon nominated to go second, while Max and Karstan decided to go third. Chris and Jenna were stuck with first place after the other couples determined their order.
The contestants had no doubt hoped to repeat the formula established on The Block Fans v Faves, where the hammer prices escalated with each auction as buyer desperation took hold.
But in a lesser location, with lesser properties and fewer interested buyers, they instead saw the buyer pool dilute as each apartment sold.
The discounts received by the contestants after completing the sixth "secret" apartment did indeed impact the final result.
Maxine and Karstan had the biggest reserve price due to the size and aspect of their apartment, had an initial reserve of $1.7 million. Their winnings earned them a $1.67 million adjusted reserve.
After Deanne and Darren's final apartment winnings, their $1.6 million reserve was cut to $1,370,000.
Michael and Carlene's reserve was discounted by $20,000, giving them a final reserve of $1.38 million.
Simon and Shannon received a $10,000 discount on their $1,575,000 reserve, with a final reserve price of $1,565,000.
Chris and Jenna did not get placed in the top three at either stage of the challenge, and so missed out on a discount, and had a $1.5 million reserve.
The proceedings began with Chris and Jenna's auction overseen by Anton Wongtrakun of Dingle Partners, which saw three bidders initially compete for the windowless unit. After bidding seemed to snag at the $1.5 million reserve mark, a fourth bidder entered the race, restarting the momentum.
Two bidders battled it out from $1.5 million upwards: what appeared to be a young couple and the other a rather emotive buyer's agent, pushed the price to up to $1.81 million, with the apartment going to the client of the agent.
When Simon and Shannon's apartment went on the block, host Scott Cam announced that Block regular  Damien Cooley was a "very good auctioneer, this bloke". After just two bids, from Frank Valentic and another buyer's agent who bid at The Block Fans v Faves auctions, the home was up for $1.7 million.
The young couple who bid on Chris and Jenna's apartment popped up again, pushing the price up further, before a profusely sweating Valentic placed a $1.9 million bid, securing the apartment.
The subsequent auctions proceeded at a markedly slower pace.
Karl Gillon of Buxton kicked proceedings for Max and Karstan's apartment began proceedings with a number of vendor bids, pushing the price up to $1.68 million. The young couple appeared yet again, putting in a $1.69 million bid. Gillon worked overtime placing vendor bids, acting as the only competitor to the young couple. The apartment sold for $1.71 million to the young couple, resulting in a $40,000 profit for Max and Karstan.
Not quite the wedding gift the disappointed Max and Karstan were expecting. Nor were many other punters, with judge Shaynna Blaze predicting their apartment would <a href="/expert-insights/building/shaynna-blaze-picks-max-and-karstans-apartment-as-the-top-seller-in-the-block-glasshouse">sell for the highest price</a>.
A deflated Deanne and Darren were up next, with their apartment going under the hammer with Russell Cambridge of Biggin &amp; Scott. It seemed that Dee's provincial luxury stylings, which were feared would alienate some buyers, at least brought in some interest from bidders who had not appeared at the previous auctions.
However, things stagnated just after they passed their reserve, with a number of $10,000 bids put the price of their apartment at $1.38 million. The couple ended up with just a $10,000 profit after three months of work. Had they not received their reserve discount prizes, their apartment would have been passed in below reserve.
Michael and Carlene's apartment was auctioned last. The auction, said to have stretched out for an excruciating 45 minutes, saw Matt White of Ray White try to squeeze interest out of the rather small buyer base. Bidding opened at $1.2 million.
A few bidders who had not yet appeared at the previous apartments popped up, but it wasn't much use to Michael and Carlene. Things stalled below reserve at $1.36 million for some time.
Some whispers were exchanged among potential buyers at the $1.36 million mark while White and his fellow agents consulted with Michael and Carlene.
They agreed that the apartment should be passed in should it just reach reserve, as a reserve price sale would result in zero profits for Michael and Carlene.
White returned to let the couple know that a bidder was willing to put in a $1.39 million bid, which White would be forced to accept in accordance with Victorian laws. And so the bidder purchased at $1.39 million.
All in all, the disappointing Block Glasshouse results reflected the market's interest in a bizarre office conversion located on an inner city main street.
 
 
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Smashing win for Simon and Shannon in The Block Glasshouse auctions results

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<li>
Functional and stylish – don’t forget both elements There’s no point making something beautiful if it can’t be used in the way intended. Renovators should consider how a room is used as well as how it looks. Storage, access and use are just as crucial as giving something a contemporary, high end and luxury look. 
</li>
<li>
Be firm with your suppliers Many couples in The Block Glasshouse were faced great difficulty trying to get materials, such as cabinetry, from their suppliers, leaving some installing it 45 minutes before completion time. Some strict words did assist with speeding up the process. It’s crucial to let your suppliers know your expectations. Leave plenty of time as a buffer for any delays. 
</li>
<li>
Budget While many of the teams do well with budgeting, in The Block Glasshouse's office episode Carlene managed to max out their credit card earlier on in the piece by overspending on pricey fabric and making other extravagant purchases. Budget ahead of time, know where the bang for your buck items are. Think smartly about your spending choices. Some DIY furniture saved Michael and Carline in the end, using timber that was on site, however it could have worked out far worse. 
</li>
<li>
Find a focal point The couples that did the best knew to focus on a “wow” factor, and focus the room around that point. Those that missed out dressed either all of their room too much (such as Chris and Jenna with too many plants) or not enough. Think of the point of difference – a clever skylight, or a canopy bed – and enhance this with your styling. 
</li>
<li>
Teamwork Communication and strong team work are crucial when you’re suffering from lack of sleep, structural issues and a short time period. Many couples were unable to make decisions between them, or to trust each other to make choices. It’s crucial to stay in touch, to know whose is responsible for which task and to choose who will do what. 
</li>
<li>
Fitout may fade, but aspect is forever. While Steve and Chantelle’s renovating skills in The Block Fans v Faves may have left a lot to be desired at times, their street-fronting apartment had that all-important north facing aspect. With windows all along their western wall and huge arched windows at the north, their apartment was flooded with light. Should they wish to, changing the apartment’s furnishings will cost the buyers relatively little. 
</li>
<li>
Use the building’s natural features. Contestants in The Block Fans v Faves were lucky enough to makeover one of the most interesting buildings in Albert Park, the former Dux Picture Theatre. With townhouses and apartments in the suburb already in high demand, the rarity of The Block’s warehouse conversions were a huge pull for buyers and audiences. All four teams took advantage of this fact, playing up the industrial elements of their properties with complimentary timber work and exposed red brick. 
</li>
<li>
Location matters, even in TV land The Block’s producers have an impressive track record now of picking buildings in blue chip inner city suburbs, where demand runs hot and residences are hard to come by. As buyers’ advocate Frank Valentic noted, the couple who purchased the winning apartment this series had been seeking a home in Melbourne’s inner south for some time. With The Block Glasshouse taking part in Prahran, it's clear they have continued this trend. 
</li>
<li>
Treat your tradies well Trouble with tradies is a running theme across many of The Block seasons, as is those with the best tradie-relationships securing the best results. Poor planning meant that teams at times had to re-do their work with different tradespeople, while disputes in The Block Fans v Faves sees Alisa and Lysandra ditch one of their employees. 
</li>
<li>
Reno smart, sell smarter With the least experience and the least money, The Block Fans v Faves' Steve and Chantelle relied on strategy, channelling their energies into the kitchen and living spaces and their master bedroom, two of the most valuable areas for buyers. But it was their clever choice to go last in the auction proceedings that was the couple’s best play, with high demand and low supply the perfect ingredients for a winning price.</li>
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10 novice renovator tips from The Block

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The Block Glasshouse judge Shaynna Blaze predicts Maxine and Karstan's apartment will attract lots of bidders, perhaps putting it ahead of the competition at tomorrow's auction.
Blaze, or "Shaynna from Wantirna" to some, told TV Week that the aspect and size of the apartment apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117846863" target="_blank">3/121-127 High Street Prahran </a>will appeal to buyers.
"I think there are going to be more people bidding for Max and Karstan's apartment due to the size of it, and it's north facing," she said.
Max and Karstan's apartment has 237 square metres of space. In The Block Glasshouse, first time renovators Chantelle and Steve took out the competition with their <a href="/news/substance-over-style-as-chantelle-and-steve-win-the-block-2014-fans-v-faves">north facing apartment</a>.
While Blaze thinks Max and Karstan's apartment will draw in buyers, she admitted that Carlene and Michael's styling made their apartment her favourite.
"I absolutely love it," she told TV Week.
“Just to walk in to it as a family home – I think that’s what they’ve done beautifully."
Do you agree with Shaynna that Michael and Carlene's is the apartment with the best renovation?
{mijopolls 52}
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Shaynna Blaze picks Max and Karstan's apartment as the top seller in The Block Glasshouse

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Guest observation
Most people seeking to sell their house want to do so quickly and for the highest possible price.
But not everyone takes the steps required to make this a possibility. While buying a house is a major, long-term commitment for most, it is still a decision that is often ruled by the heart. By making a few additions, repairs and alterations to your home, you can make your property attractive to the widest range of prospective buyers possible.
Make first impressions count
It's unlikely that a prospective buyer is going to decide they want to buy based on the outside of the house, but they may make the decision not to after looking over the exterior.
Good impressions should start from the minute people pull up outside, yet too many sellers forget about ensuring the façade of their homes are presentable.
This means everything from the driveway to the garden to the front door should be ready to impress.
<ul>
<li>Keep your lawn mowed at all times</li>
<li>Schedule a regime of weed and leaf clearing</li>
<li>Plant some flowers or shrubs to complement the season</li>
<li>Remove any unnecessary items from your garden and pathways</li>
<li>Make sure your windows are clean and in a good state of repair</li>
<li>Check for missing roof tiles and slates</li>
<li>Walk up to your door and imagine yourself as the buyer. What's your first impression? Would you want to take a look inside?</li>
</ul>
Attend to repairs  
The last thing people, especially first home buyers, want to be worrying about is costly repairs right after moving in.
Unless you're targeting property developers, you'll need to make sure that the obvious, niggling repair jobs that you've been putting off are all attended to in a professional manner. They may seem like quick fix jobs, but a broken doorbell or loose floorboard just gives buyers another excuse to walk away.
If they're easy enough for a new buyer to fix, they should be easy enough for you to fix first.
<ul>
<li>Make sure all your internal doors close properly, and that all the door handles in your home work as they should.</li>
<li>Attend to cracks in the walls and ceilings before painting or papering over them. But be sure to seek professional help from a builder or a structural engineer if the cracks appear serious.</li>
<li>Fix dripping taps and leaks.</li>
<li>Replace broken fly-screens.</li>
<li>Check that all your light fittings are working and that they are fixed with the appropriate light bulb.</li>
</ul>
Modernise and minimise
Keep things simple. While you may have loved the bright colours and quirky items of furniture in your home, the truth is that buyers often respond more favourably to neutral tones and colour schemes.
Buyers need to be given the freedom to imagine their lives in your home, and that can be difficult if it's adorned with patterned wall-coverings, too many personal photos and trinkets and ornaments from your last holiday.
<ul>
<li>Redecorate with neutral tones - magnolia, and shades of white are ideal.</li>
<li>Remove overly personal and niche item</li>
<li>Remove excess furniture and clutter, including newspapers, magazines, and children's toys</li>
<li>Avoid stuffing cupboards and drawers with clutter, as buyers may want to take a close look at the storage space available</li>
<li>If necessary, hire some storage space for items that aren't necessary to daily life. This will allow you to create the image of space, and allow your home to be the star of the show.</li>
</ul>
Get cleaning  
A quick flick of a vacuum cleaner and some light dusting won't cut it when you're showing your home to potential buyers. It's important to remember that your home is probably one of dozens in the area for sale, and even the slightest issue with cleanliness can be enough to scupper your chances of securing a quick scale.
When people are looking for a new home they want a fresh start -- so make sure the property reflects that.
<ul>
<li> Clear every room of furniture and perform a detailed clean on areas that would otherwise escape your attention.</li>
<li>Pay particular attention to the kitchen and bathroom where dirt and grime show up easily</li>
<li>Think about hiring a professional cleaning service just before you start inviting buyers into your home.</li>
<li>Remember that your home should be ready for those last-minute inspections that are an inevitable part of the selling process.</li>
</ul>
Consider hiring a 'home staging' service
 Sometimes, particularly for premium properties, even the most subtle of details can be enough to strike a chord with a prospective buyer. It might be an inviting smell, the way the light flows into a particular room, or the flow of your home's main reception room.
Although hiring an expert to 'stage' your property for viewing comes at a price, the premium it can deliver in the form of a higher sale price could be worth it.
There may be a lot of competition for the attention of buyers in your area. But with some careful planning, maintenance and staging, you can make sure it's your home that stands out on the market.
Zoe Pointon is the co-founder of real estate startup <a href="https://www.openagent.com.au/?tid=1003" target="_blank">OpenAgent</a>.
 
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