A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Joel Robinson

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<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/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

<html><body>
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>.
 
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Getting your property ready to go to the market

<html><body>
Guest observation
The seemingly ever increasing property prices in Australia have turned many first home buyers' attention to affordable and fixable homes.
With popular TV programs like Building Ideas and The Block, the media also reinforces this link between the Australian "can-do", DIY attitude and home buying. For first home buyers on a budget, doing it DIY can be appealing.
However, lack of prior investigation and poorly informed decision making can amplify costs – potentially much higher than a first home owner's budget allows. When in the initial stages of your home buying search, you can save your time and valuable money by looking out for warning signs when viewing homes and gauging whether the renovation costs will fit within your budget.
Is there such thing as a 'bargain' home? When purchasing a lower than market value property, there are key points every home buyer should consider.
Drainage System
Buildings showing signs of bad drainage will usually exhibit signs of water seeping through walls and floors (in the form of brown stains on the plaster) and a strong mildew odour. Grey water present at end of pipe drains evidences that a drainage system is blocked by contaminants. Be especially aware of unsanitary black water containing sewage. This is the most hazardous to health, and means that drinking water may also be affected.
Cost of renovation: High
Ceiling
If a structure is not adequate to support a sagging ceiling, there is certain safety hazard. Buildings with damaged ceilings must be repaired immediately. Look out for cracks in the ceiling plaster as well as water stains in the plaster as these will be causes for concern. However, if you notice the ceiling is sagging, the house is more than likely going to be a no-go for someone on a tight budget as this is a the sign that costly reparations are necessary. This is an important consideration- particularly for first time buyers, as you will probably wish to move in right away, but entry will not be permitted without costly repair for safety reasons.
Cost of renovation: High
Floors and Walls
The foundations of a home must be stable in order to be able to house occupants. Cracks across foundations or walls may be the result of soil creep, flood or other natural forces. Structural integrity cannot be compromised. A full audit of cracks is necessary to discern the level damage, but as a general rule of thumb, thin hairline cracks are pose little cause for concern and can be covered with a lick of paint, but large cracks causing the separation of wall plaster or floor tiles present more serious challenges.
Cost of renovation: Moderate to high
Mould
Leakage from a water system or foundation can substantially weaken a structure. Health considerations and sub-standard appearance are a more common result of mould. A mould-laden property with pathogens can lead to poor air quality. Potentially perilous for children, respiratory patients, and pets, mould should be eliminated prior to move-in. Look out for mould (usually in the form of black or grey spores) in areas such as inside cupboards (especially under sinks), on window frames, behind curtain headings or pelmets and along the floor outside showers or bathtubs.
Cost of renovation: Moderate to high
This article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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Pests
The danger of pest infestation is a problem that must be managed with chemicals. These include rodent, roach, ant, and termites. Inspection by a licenced pest control professional will provide exact information on the extent of the damage. Pests tend to nest in cupboards, wardrobes, beneath floorboards and in rarely used parts of the house like the garage, so look out for them in there. If pest excrement is present, it is a sign of infestation.
Cost of renovation: Moderate to high
Roof
Indications of structural roof sagging should be inspected to assess the cost of the damage. Roofs with falling frames will be more costly, while minor levelling problems may not be as expensive to fix.
Cost of renovation: Moderate
Water Stains
When pipes crack or break, flooding, leaks, and seepage can make its way into ceiling and wall foundations. Brown stains in rooms near bath and kitchen amenities are most likely to see extensive damage. Re-plastering is generally the solution if the pipes have already been repaired.
Cost of renovation: Moderate to High
Wood Rot
The deterioration of wood caused by water damage and termite infestation can cause rotting, and even crumbling. One simple method of ascertaining wood rot damage is to press frames around the door and windows of a building. A crumbling or sponge-like texture is usually an indicator that wood rot is taking over key fixtures. These would need to be replaced to keep your home safe from burglars as a crumbling door or window frame won't keep out a concerted break-in effort.
Cost of renovation: Moderate to high
Bargain homes often attract first time buyers, but it's important to move forward with caution when considering this type of property. Replacement of fixtures and structural elements can be expensive depending on the size of the home. Always have a professional evaluate the number and type of repairs required before settling a property deal.
Professional pre-purchase building inspection Firstly, before signing on the dotted line and handing over the deposit on a 'fixer- upper' home, a professional pre-purchase building inspection is advised.
A sound inspection should investigate deeper into the structural integrity of the home and expose any repairs that are necessary to keep the home in a safe condition. Brad Porteus is the Managing Director of BSP Construction Consultants, pre-purchase building inspection specialists in Perth, Western Australia. You can read his contributions on <a href="https://blog.realestateview.com.au/" target="_blank">realestateview.com.au</a>. 
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Can you trust a ‘bargain’ home?

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Blockheads Darren and Deanne earned 10/10 marks from Block judges Shaynna Blaze, Neale Whitaker and Darren Palmer when they unveiled their garden terrace.
They enlisted Block landscaper David Franklin, of Franklin Landscape &amp; Design, to assist them with the makeover.
Franklin is a renovation reality television regular, having appeared on several seasons of The Block as well as Burke's Backyard, Australia's Best Backyards and Selling Houses Australia.
Darren and Deanne's outdoor space, adjacent to their kitchen and living room, was described as a "Tuscan retreat" by Shaynna.
The judges were particularly impressed by the mezzanine balcony the team built over their terrace. Opening from the master bedroom, the small elevated area has city views.
The terrace featured plenty of greenery, including suspended geraniums.
Despite warnings from Franklin, Deanne couldn't be dissuaded from winding fairy lights around the hangers, though the judges didn't seem to mind.
The couple, who won this week's renovation challenge, earned just shy of a perfect 30/30 score, with one point deducted for failing to use the disco-light strewn vertical planter that Chris and Jenna gave them earlier in the season.
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
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The Block Glasshouse: The Ds (and their landscaper) garner perfect garden scores

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The property veteran John McGrath has inspected the latest The Block Glasshouse apartments.
His conclusion, having been associated with The Block through the nine series since the original 2003 version, was emphatic.
"This is the biggest and best by far," he said.
McGrath has done brief cameos in recent series but for many years, until 2013's The Block All Stars, he was a weekly room reveal judge. He was replaced by Darren Palmer, who joined Shaynna Blaze and Neale Whitaker, the former editor of Belle magazine.
Meanwhile Whitaker has accepted a role with NewsLifeMedia’s lifestyle brand Vogue Living, and will also be a columnist for News Corp’s Sunday papers in Australia.
Whitaker's new job has yet to be acknowledged by the Scott Cam voiceover on The Block.
Bauer Media recently appointed Tanya Buchanan as editor of Belle magazine, which is set to celebrate 40 years of continuous publication.
The latest Audit Bureau of Circulation figures revealed Belle's circulation at 45,000 copies.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

John McGrath's high praise for The Block Glasshouse

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With the auctions for The Block Glasshouse only a few weekends away and each listed online, people are already guessing what each Prahran apartment will sell for.
Property value predictor realAs has estimated the price of two of the properties on The Block Glasshouse: Chris and Jenna's unit and Max and Karstan's apartment.
So far, Max and Karstan are ahead, according to realAs. Their algorithm predicts that the apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117846863" target="_blank">3/121-127 High Street Prahran</a> (pictured above) will sell for $1,728,000, based on a price guide of $1.6 million.
Chris and Jenna aren't far behind with their windowless offering predicted to sell for $1,624,000, compared to their price guide of $1.5 million.
Predictions from realAs aren't yet available for Deanne and Darren, Michael and Carlene or Simon and Shannon's apartments.
The listing for Michael and Carlene's apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-prahran-117902235" target="_blank">1/125 High Street</a> describes it as "showcasing the warm style that has made Michael and Carlene major award winners".
Their apartment (pictured below) has 236.8 square metres of floor space, and a southerly aspect. The judges deemed their kitchen, laundry, entrance and living and dining area the best on show this season.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/1.jpg" alt="">
Chris and Jenna's apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117921143" target="_blank">pictured below</a>, has 277 square metres of floor space, making it the biggest apartment in The Block.
The apartment, however, also doesn't have a single external window - just skylights and an internal terrace. To make up for it, they're the only apartment with a rooftop terrace.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/2.jpg" alt="">
Karstan and Maxine have a 237 square metre apartment, with a north-westerly aspect (pictured below).
The couple also have a "secret" extra room which is yet to be revealed.
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/3.jpg" alt="">
The apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117915927" target="_blank">4/125 High Street</a>, renovated by brothers Simon and Shannon, has a southerly aspect (pictured below).
The 249 square metre apartment is the second largest, and overlooks High Street.
<img src="/images/2014/09/23/4jpg" alt=""> 
Deanne and Darren's apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117930567" target="_blank">6/121 High Street</a>, is the smallest on The Block, with just 186.7 square metres of floor space.
It does, however, have the most desirable aspect, facing northward and delivering city views (pictured below).
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/block-sept-23-one.jpg" alt="">
Each team will take home the sale price of their apartment minus their reserve, with the team that has the highest price above reserve also receiving a $100,000 prize.
realAs is also <a href="https://realas.com/theblock/" target="_blank">running a competition</a> for those who think they can guess the end price for the apartments, with an iPhone 6 up for grabs. 
Which apartment do you think will attract the highest price?
{mijopolls 38}
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The Block Glasshouse apartments: How much will they sell for?

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Following the sell-out of the first stage of Appin Valley in Wollondilly Shire, Walker Corporation have submitted plans to council hoping to release more land in early 2015.
The first stage of Appin Valley, which sold out in less than a year from its release in 2013, offered 336 lots.
The next stage, an extension across Macquariedale Road and Gordon Lewis Reserve, will include 280 homes and a 55 hectare conservation reserve, as well as upgrades of local ovals, barbecue facilities, cycle paths and the restoration of the Inn.
This release will see lots ranging up to 1,100 square metres.
Director of masterplanned communities for Walker Corporation, Chad Walker, said that the sales success has been a result of the location and affordable generous-sized lots, making it compelling for home buyers.
"In particular we had a lot of interest from first time buyers who were attracted to the prospect of owning a brand new home within this historic region while remaining close to major cities such as Campelltown, just 15 minutes drive away,” he said.
“We’ve also seen strong interest from empty nesters looking to move to a more manageable sized lot and young families looking to build their dream home.”
Of the lots, 70% were over 700 square metres, and lots ranged from $180,000 and $315,000.
Partnering with Walker Corporation was Adenbrook Homes and managing director of the home builder, Daniel Galea, said that their most popular design had been the Baywood, which comes in 28 square metre or 31 square metre designs.
“The home is perfect for families. It comprises of three separate living spaces, an outdoor alfresco area, four bedrooms and a double garage. Currently we have eight homes under construction at Appin Valley with 15 more under contract,” he said.
Currently, the final civil construction is underway with an October completion expectation. Over 40 homes are under construction at present.
 
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Walker Corporation’s next Appin Valley release slated for 2015

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"It's tradition. Every night on reveal we have a little cry, and the next morning we're all good," said The Block Glasshouse contestant Chris on the latest room reveals' episode.
Chris and Jenna have certainly had plenty of disappointment to bounce back from in their journey from underdogs to wonderdogs and back to underdogs on The Block. This week was no different.
Despite their best intentions, the couple failed to repeat the success of their main bathroom, which earned them a <a href="/expert-insights/building/block-glasshouse-newbies-reborn-with-perfect-score">perfect score</a> from the judges. This week, they came in last place yet again, delivering an unfinished room (pictured below).
 <img src="/images/2014/09/23/block-sept-23-breakout.jpg" alt="">
Though the judges were inexplicably enamoured with Chris and Jenna's choice of <a href="https://www.beaumont-tiles.com.au/AllProducts/ProductDetails.aspx?pid=183022D&amp;Search=three&amp;pspid=1" target="_blank">resin-based 3D tiles</a>, it seems they weren't quite worth the (considerable) effort it took to install them. Chris' scheduling bungle didn't help either: telling his glazier the wrong date set the team back considerably.
Judges Neale Whitaker, Shaynna Blaze and Darren Palmer had plenty to say about the bathroom's grotty bronze mirror, the electrical sockets hanging out of the wall and poor finishing touches. They were, however, enthusiastic about the design and layout of the bathroom, which managed to fit in a bathtub and double shower.
Chris and Jenna received 23 out of 30 for their effort.
Karstan and Max, who were the victims of some rather laborious pranks this week, didn't fare much better. They delivered yet another glossy, big-tiled, dark bathroom (pictured below). At least the cold-looking rooms are consistent.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/katstan%20and%20max.jpg" alt="">
One of the major problems with The Block format is the expectation that contestants will respond to the judge's comments from week to week, with each room better than the last. But doing so creates inconsistency throughout the apartments. While the viewing public may enjoy seeing each team progress through a coherent narrative, buyers would rather a consistently styled home.
So Karstan and Maxine's stubborn cling to high-gloss might just pay off on auction day. For now, they remain unpopular with the judges, who awarded the team 24 out of 30.
Perpetual favourites Michael and Carlene also had a less-than-stellar run with their ensuite (pictured below). Unfortunately, the glass door to their ensuite was installed before their tiles were installed, and it didn't fit when the flooring was completed.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/michael%20and%20carlene.jpg" alt="">
So there was one less piece of glass on reveal day, but it was still too much: Neale declared that the couple's use of glass throughout the ensuite, including glass pendant lights, made it feel cold.
He also hated the dried nettles that sat in Michael and Carlene's bathroom, though Darren defended the dead flowers pictured below. It seems he's a fan of the souped-up potpourri, having used dried flowers in his own book, Easy Luxury. Michael and Carlene were given 25.5 points for their efforts.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/dried%20nettles.jpg" alt="">
There was some distance between the bottom three and the top two, with Dee and Darren's score clearing Michael and Carlene's by three points. But 28 wasn't enough for Deanne, who declared Shaynna a "bogan from Wantirna" with "no idea about styling" after she gave their ensuite (pictured below) a measly 9/10, citing storage issues.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/dee.jpg" alt="">
Darren and Dee, who had the smallest ensuite of any team, finished their interior spaces with characteristic WASPish flair (bar the bizarre chevron towels). The couple's provincial styling, as shown in the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117930567" target="_blank">online listing</a> for their apartment, sits a little strangely in an office conversion. It seems to work for them - just not well enough to win the team any prizes.
This week, the award for winning room went to Simon and Shannon's ensuite, pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/09/22/simon%20and%20shannon%20bath2.jpg" alt="">
The brothers, who had been banking on the appeal of a timber bath, got exactly what they wanted. The judges swooned over their wooden washtub and its spout, which descended from the ceiling. The bathroom also featured glass pendant lights and a gold Chinese drum stool.
They received a 29.5 score this week, earning them a $15,000 prize.
Simon and Shannon will be spending the $15,000 on their terrace spaces, with the apartments' interiors now completed.
All photos courtesy of Channel 9.
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Dead flowers debate on The Block Glasshouse, but ennui ensues after ensuite reviews

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The first residents have moved in to the masterplanned Wallis Creek community, developed by Walker Corporation.
The new residential community’s residents are a “major milestone”, said Walker Corporation director of masterplanned communities Chad Walker.
“Wallis Creek will deliver an exceptional new community for the Lower Hunter region, and we are pleased that home buyers now have an opportunity to touch, see and experience what their smart modern Wallis Creek home could look like at the display village,” he said.
The display village at <a href="https://www.walliscreek.com.au" target="_blank">Wallis Creek</a>, which opened the first display homes in early-July, will showcase 10 homes from six builders, including Eden Brae Homes and Oracle Property Group.
“Eden Brae and Oracle have finished three beautiful new homes and we will soon welcome new homes from more builders to the Wallis Creek Display Village,” he said.
Upon completion, a total of 406 dwellings will be built over the 56 hectare site. It will include landscaped areas, walking paths, playgrounds, a community centre and there is also a proposed school. The community will be connected to the NBN.
Prices range from $159,000 to $194,000, spanning 450 square metres to 783 square metres.
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First residents move in to Walker Corporation’s masterplanned Wallis Creek

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A designer revival of the backyard dunny?
The enduring presence of a turn of the century brick outhouse in the Sydney suburb of Balmain piqued the interest of our property contrarians, Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok.
Especially as this brick outhouse stands in the backyard behind a Federation house recently stylishly redesigned by SJB Architects. Over $3 million is expected at its 11 October auction.
While the house is described by the <a href="https://www.belleproperty.com/41P0196" target="_blank">listing agent Monique Dower at Belle Property</a> as striking “a perfect balance between classical architecture and cutting-edge design”, the old thunderbox harks back to the days of previous generations when homes didn’t have indoor flushable toilets. 
Viewed on Google Earth, the dunny is connected to an adjoining building next door, so perhaps its preservation was as much about the neighbourhood harmony.
This week Jonathan and Margie discuss the merits of the rare maintenance of the once ubiquitous building at the bottom of the backyard. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/03/28/jc-silhouette-7.jpg" style="line-height: 1.3em; float: right;">HE SAID:
I'd previously reported on<a href="/news/last-of-the-backyard-paddington-dunnies-fetches-1-million-amid-78-super-saturday-auction-clearance-rate"> the demise of the backyard dunny</a>. But that was in Sydney's east.
I think this updated Balmain dunny is inspired – it is certainly more functional, and far less sexist, than a man’s shed.
With a garden hose hanging off the outside wall, you could pop inside when nature calls while watering the lawn, or indeed, while turning sausages on the barbecue conveniently placed against the adjacent fence.
Would have loved it if they went with a Philippe Starck bowl, but see it's a Geberit instead.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/03/28/mb-silhouette-6.jpg" style="float: left;">
SHE SAID:
I’m with Jonathan, this dunny is a winner. Highly practical, it is ideally placed metres from the plunge pool, so dripping wet residents and their guests don’t need to schlep through the house to the powder room inside. Also, it solves the hideous issue of children pissing in pools (a personal bugbear of mine) – no excuses for kids not using the loo here.
If I owned this dunny, I’d add to its authenticity by growing a choko vine over the ripple iron roof, and placing a scary looking plastic spider near the toilet bowl – for I grew up in a house with an outdoor dunny (albeit a flushable one) where spiders resided alongside my father’s garden tools. 
Before modern suburban sewerage systems were built, dunnies were designed for practicality. In the good old days before water flushable toilets, outhouses with cans were placed at a distance from the house for reasons of smell and hygience. And often they were set on a property’s rear boundary with lane access for the removal of waste. 
Collected at night, once of twice a week by men with a horse and cart hired by the local council, the waste was euphemistically referred to as ‘night soil’ – hence the term ‘night soil’ lane was coined. In inner city suburbs these days, former ‘night soil’ lanes have morphed to provide easy car access to a garage, or a pedestrian thoroughfare if the lane is narrow.
Of course the term - as flat as a shit carter's hat - still lives on with surf reports. 
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The designer revival of a backyard dunny? He Said/She Said 

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Fans and skeptics alike will have the chance to have a stickybeak around the country's most famous office conversion this weekend.
The Block Glasshouse at 121-127 High Street Prahran will be on show on Saturday 20 September and 21 September from 10am to 2pm.
<img src="/images/2014/08/25/masterchris.jpg" alt="">
The public can poke their heads into Chris and Jenna's <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-block-room-reveals-martyrs-mavericks-and-master-bedrooms">curious copper-walled bedroom</a> (above), climb atop Carlene and Michael's <a href="/expert-insights/building/block-glasshouse-newbies-reborn-with-perfect-score">raised shower stage</a> (below) and loiter in the rather <a href="/expert-insights/building/will-buyers-agree-with-the-judges-on-the-block">lacklustre laundries</a>. 
<img src="/images/2014/08/11/block%20michael.jpg" alt="">
They will also have the opportunity to check out the rooms that haven't been revealed on television yet - though people can already take a peek at Chris and Jenna's yet-to-be-aired terraces on their <a href="/expert-insights/building/the-block-glasshouse-chris-and-jennas-apartment-listed-online">apartment's online listing</a>.
From Property Observer's experience at the Fans v Faves open for inspection earlier this year, spectators can expect long lines, a slow shuffle through the apartments and plenty of selfie opportunities with the contestants.
The Block Glasshouse apartments will be up for auction on 11 October.
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