National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

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.

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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

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The pantry is apparently super-sizing. And the trend has emerged not just because there was plenty of space in The Block Glasshouse project in Prahran.
Last weekend <a href="https://online.wsj.com/articles/the-rise-of-the-super-pantry-1410449896" target="_blank">The Wall Street Journal noted</a> the trend noting the pantry in the US was becoming prettier part of the home. As kitchens islands have become the entertainment hub of the home, home owners are moving the clutter and clatter of kitchen activities behind the scenes where they are less visible to guests.
"No longer just for storing potato chips and soup cans, the traditional kitchen closet is becoming bigger, more luxe and more multifunctional.
"Architects, contractors and real-estate agents say upscale homeowners are asking for walk-in rooms that serve as workspaces for everything from food prep to gift wrapping to bill-paying."
A report by the National Association of Home Builders last year showed 85% of respondents put a walk-in kitchen pantry on their most wanted list.
The WSJ article said the latest iteration of the pantry was really just a riff off pantries of yore.
 In the U.S., a separate room used for storing butter in the 17th and 18th centuries was called a "buttr'y," says Catherine Seiberling Pond, author of The Pantry—Its History and Modern Uses.
 The mid- to late-1800s saw the arrival of the "butler's pantry"—a room off the kitchen for storing glassware, dishes and cutlery, where food was plated. 
In the 1930s, breakfast nooks began to replace separate pantries, and food storage moved to cabinets. 
Pantries became all but obsolete by the 1950s, says Pond. It wasn't until the 1990s, when kitchens became more open, that walk-in pantries returned.
There were two winners of kitchen week.
Michael and Carlene's kitchen was reminiscent of a high-end Manhattan brasserie. The butler’s pantry had storage and a preparation area. The judges praised the pantry (pictured above) as the “icing on the cake”.
Shannon and Simon's kitchen was described as modern, edgy with a sophisticated palette. It came with chef's kitchen. Their pantry was the perfect place for a microwave, said judge Darren.
Dee and Daz’s butler’s pretty pantry was the runner up.
There was criticism from the Block judge, Shayna of Maxine and Karstan’s butler’s pantry. 
Shayna thought there was way too much storage (below) in the contestant butler’s pantry, describing it as “like a clinical storage box”.
<img src="/images/2014/09/19/block-sept-19-two.jpg" alt="">
Maxine and Karstan’s butler’s pantry. Source: Channel 9
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Block Glasshouse: Kitchen pantries on the comeback

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When you are developing property, finding actual comparable sales references in the same market that you will build is extremely important. 
You need to estimate what your dwellings will be worth on completion of your project.
You can find sales references on most of the real estate websites in the 'sold' area. You can also order sales reports from Residex or RP Data and various other providers which are more accurate.  
House and land packages are advertised readily.  If you are building near or within a land release estate then you are bound to come across them.  
I'm often asked if a house and land package price can be used as a sales reference for a finished home. The answer is no.
A house and land package, of course contains two components; land and construction costs. When you purchase a house and land package from a builder/developer, you do not pay the entire cost upfront. The builder or developer would have secured the land and you will usually pay for the land directly.  So the registered sale price associated with that lot will be what you paid for the land and not the entire price of the package.
Financing for a house and land package usually consists of two steps: a loan for the land then a construction loan.  
The loans for land and build costs can be arranged separately, but may also be bundled together.
As part of your due diligence on a house and land package, you must carefully check the inclusions and exclusions of the builder's contract.  Commonly, some site works are NOT included and you may need to add these to the price you've been quoted. Typically retaining walls can be excluded, importing or exporting of soil to prepare the site may be excluded or listed as a 'provisional cost'. This means an allowance has been made but if it costs more, a variation will be raised. If it costs less than the allowance, then you may get a credit (which is always nice).
Be wary of 'turnkey packages'.   A turnkey package should include everything so that you can move right in or sell or lease the property as completed including carpet, blinds, landscaping, driveways, letterbox and all fittings and fixtures. 
A  quick search in one of the suburbs Property Bloom develops in comes up with this advertisement:
Headline:  "FIXED PRICE TURN KEY PACKAGE!!  Fixed price package gives peace of mind with no hidden extras."
Below the headline was a computer generated image of a house.  Then following this was a disclaimer:
DISCLAIMER All facades, floor plans, dimensions and illustrations are indicative only. The finishes and inclusions nominated are to be used as a guide only and purchaser is advised to refer to the land contract and builders contract for accurate dimensions, specifications and inclusions. We reserve the right to alter the plans
What you are getting for you money or the exact house and land package will be detailed in the sales contract and builder's contract. It's imperative that you review this in detail to understand the inclusions and more importantly, the exclusions.
A house and land package can be advertised at a low price point to attract attention. Whilst you can use it as an indication as the builder/developer is basically saying this is the actual cost of a house in this suburb, it is by no means indicating the actual cost or value. 
If it's a good location, you can expect that the value may be higher. Always budget for a higher cost to cover excluded items and any upgrades or changes you'd like to make.
A house and land package price is not a sales reference, however it can be looked at as a lower estimate of the end value. In a good location and in a good market, if a sale occurs of a completed house and land package, that the vendor would be seeking a higher price than what it cost them to build.
<a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertybloom.com.au</a>
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Are house and land package prices considered sales references?

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GUEST OBSERVATION
With renovation season approaching, it pays to know what gas risks there are with your renovation, no matter how big or small your home improvement is.
You’ve been busy watching all of the reality renovation shows and writing down all of the ideas, now it is your turn to get your hands dirty and start ticking off that long list of home improvements you’ve been waiting to do.
But as exciting as it is to knock down walls, fit out a new kitchen or build an extension, it isn’t without it’s risks, and for the safety of you and your family you need to be aware of them, particularly when it comes to gas in your home.
Faulty appliances, flue blockages and gas leaks can all lead to the production of carbon monoxide, a highly poisonous colourless, odourless and tasteless gas that can cause serious health issues including death. To ensure you avoid the dangers, here are five tips to keep in mind when renovating where gas is installed.
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">Know where your gas pipework or flues are located Before you start drilling, nailing or knocking down walls it is important you know where your gas pipework is located. Gas flues can be fitted through the ceiling and roof or fitted through the wall, and any bump or blockage could result in poisonous carbon monoxide gas released into your home.
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">Watch for blocked flues 
Flues can become blocked from nests, insects, debris or by being covered up in the case of a chimney renovation.
Sooting, or yellow or brown staining around your appliances, ceilings or walls can be an indicator that carbon monoxide is present as a result of a blocked flue. If you do see this turn off your appliances get it checked by a licensed gas fitter.
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">Recognise when you need help
There are some jobs in a renovation that you just shouldn’t handle yourself, and installing or moving gas appliances is one of them. Any maintenance, alteration or repairs on your gas pipework or appliances like stoves and hot water systems should be done by a licensed gas fitter – and make sure you check their qualifications.
A licensed gasfitter will make sure your flue is not blocked or leaking to ensure gases are being safely released outside and not into your home. They can also check and clean your gas appliances  (which should be done every two years according to manufacturers recommendations) to keep them working safely and effectively. 
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">Know the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning 
While carbon monoxide is almost impossible to detect, it can give you subtle symptoms and signs that it may be present. Symptoms of poisoning start a like the flu, you can experience headaches, tiredness, nausea and vomiting, which can lead to confusion, unconsciousness and death in high doses.
If you see or experience any of the following, carbon monoxide may be present in your home and you should have it checked immediately:
<ul>
<li>Pilot lights that frequently go out</li>
<li>Excessive condensation</li>
<li>A blue flame that starts to burn yellow or orange</li>
<li>Sooting, or yellow or brown staining around your appliances, ceilings or walls; and/or</li>
<li>Improved health when you are away from home but it worsens on your return</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">Add a carbon monoxide alarm
One addition you should put to your home improvement list is a carbon monoxide alarm. Just like smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms save lives. 
Ensure your renovations, additions and improvements are a safe and enjoyable experience by following these five gas tips. While it can be tempting to cut corners and renovate as affordably as possible the health and safety of you and your family is too important. Frans Sterk is a qualified gas fitter, carbon monoxide specialist and owner of Gaswatch. For more information and safety tips on carbon monoxide head to <a href="https://www.gaswatch.com.au/" target="_blank">www.gaswatch.com.au</a>.
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FransSterk-cBBAKGGHS2

Gas risks with renovation – and how to avoid them

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Chris and Jenna's apartment from The Block Glasshouse has appeared on listing websites, revealing their terraces, which haven't yet been shown on television.
The apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117921143" target="_blank">2/121-127 High Street, Prahran</a>, is being marketed by Anton Wongtrakun of Dingle Partners. Wongtrakun was previously the agent for twins Alisa and Lysandra for The Block Fans v Faves and The Block Sky High, which they won.
Spaces yet to be revealed on the show are shown in the listing, which describes the couple's lower level entertaining terrace (pictured below): "Framed by towering double storey walls with climbing vines, it has bench seating, a barbeque area, an idyllic water feature, an alfresco bar and ample room for an outdoor setting."
<img src="/images/2014/09/15/prahran_0001_2.jpg.jpg" alt="">
The couple are the only team to have been given a rooftop terrace space due to their lack of external windows. It will have two tiers, with a barbecue area, Vergola roof and bar seating on the lower tier. The asto-turfed lemon and leucadendron lined upper tier is pictured below.
<img src="/images/2014/09/15/image10.jpg" alt="">
The listing describes Chris and Jenna's apartment as "a fusion of custom contemporary style and inspired cutting-edge design".
Marketing is also underway for Simon and Shannon's apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-prahran-117915927" target="_blank">4/125 High Street</a> (pictured below). Jellis Craig Bennison MacKinnon agents Andrew McCann and Carla Fetta are the agents, while the boys have brought back Block regular Damien Cooley to auction the property.
<img src="/images/2014/09/15/main.jpg" alt="">
The brothers' apartment is described in the listing as one that "creates highly desirable spaces that succeed in the game of life". It has 249 square metres of floor space and overlooks High Street. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117902235" target="_blank"></a>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-117902235" target="_blank">Apartment 1</a>, renovated by Michael and Carlene, is being marketed by <a href="/expert-insights/building/michael-and-carlene-stick-with-ray-white-as-the-block-glasshouse-marketing-kicks-off">Matt White of Ray White</a>. The couple are enjoying a three-week winning streak on the show after the judges deemed their living and dining room (pictured below) the best of the bunch.
<img src="/images/2014/09/15/image3.jpg" alt="">
Young couple Max and Karstan have brought Buxton's <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-121-127-high-street-prahran/Property-Details-buy-residential-7578426" target="_blank">Karl Gillon back to The Block</a>. The agent returns to the show for the third time this season, after auctioning Brad and Dale's apartment on The Block Fans v Faves.
Darren and Deanne, who have renovated apartment 5, have chosen Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond to market their apartment. Their apartment's listing is yet to appear online.
 
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

The Block Glasshouse: Chris and Jenna's apartment listed online

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The New South Wales government have acted upon many of the recent Samson report on local government, however further reform is needed to ensure an effective council structure, particularly in Sydney’s metropolitan areas, said Urban Taskforce CEO Chris Johnson.
The New South Wales government have announced its 'Fit for the Future' blueprint for local governments, which includes a package of financial incentives to encourage amalgamations across Sydney and joint organisations of councils in rural areas.
“The final report by the Independent Local Government Review Panel released in October 2013 proposed amalgamating councils in metropolitan Sydney to form between 12 and 18 new councils to replace the 41 smaller existing councils,” said Johnson.
“The government’s incentive package strongly encourages individual councils to fit into the review panel’s structure. The Urban Taskforce supports more efficient councils particularly if they relate to the state government’s regional structure for planning and other service delivery.”
This incentive package totals $1 billion, according to New South Wales Premier Mike Baird who launched the program. This is broken down into $258 million to assist councils who merge, cheaper finance for councils who need to build and maintain community facilities and up to $100 million in savings through cuts to red tape. Another $5.3 million has been set aside to establish regional joint organisations.
He noted that councils could acquire more planning powers with critical mass, with larger planning offices able to help Sydney’s growth – particularly when taking a regional approach.
“A number of large Western Sydney councils are already demonstrating a pro-growth professional attitude to planning and this needs to continue,” Johnson said.
“The proposal for regional councils to create new regional Joint Organisations where savings can be made through shared services is a good move and could also apply in Sydney if not enough councils want to amalgamate.”
At present, there are 41 councils in Greater Sydney. The blueprint notes that: “This means multiple licences, fees and approvals for small business and different development rules for people who want to build or renovate their homes.”
Councils are required to submit proposals on “how they plan to be Fit for the Future” by 30 June 2015 for an independent review.
The official timeline expectations see the changes taking place by September 2016, when new local government elections will occur. Mergers are expected to be complete, with a new Local Government Act in place, rural councils commencing and the regional joint organisations established.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Council amalgamations key to Sydney’s planning growth: Urban Taskforce

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Grandparents Carole and Russell Bramston are selling the Boya home that was renovated by their team mates on Channel 7's House Rules earlier this year.
The Western Australian couple were runners up on the series, losing out to <a href="/expert-insights/building/underdogs-adam-and-lisa-win-house-rules-season-two">Melbourne's Adam and Lisa</a>.
They purchased the Boya home (pictured above prior to the House Rules renovation) off <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-would-you-buy-a-home-off-gumtree-without-a-building-inspection-report">classifieds website Gumtree</a> for $360,000, and ended up with a home riddled with structural and superficial problems, including plumbing issues, mould, pest problems and holes in the floors and walls.
Carole told <a href="https://www.watoday.com.au/entertainment/tv-and-radio/house-rules-couple-carole-and-russell-to-sell-boya-home-20140912-10fubi" target="_blank">WA Today</a> that if the couple had won House Rules and had their $290,000 mortgage wiped clean, they would have kept the home. After losing, they're now hoping to offload the home to help them downsize and enter a mortgage free retirement.
The couple said they plan to use the sale of their Boya home to fund a move to the riverside suburb of Ascot, where they intend to build small townhouse.
Earlier this year, Carole and Russell faced accusations that they weren't the "battlers" they were portrayed as on television due to their <a href="/expert-insights/building/house-rules-contestants-hardly-on-struggle-street-say-critics">three bedroom Halls Head home</a> that they were intending to sell for $1.17 million.
However, the couple told WA Today that the Halls Head home "has a massive mortgage over it", and that they could not afford to live in it. It has since been removed from the market, after the asking price was lowered to $995,000.
Carole and Russell are not the first couple from the second season of House Rules to attempt to offload their renovated homes. Candy and Ryan sold their Emu Plains house <a href="/expert-insights/buying/house-rules-candy-and-ryan-secure-190-000-emu-plains-sale-flip-success">sold their house</a> in late August for $190,000 more than the initial purchase price.
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House Rules' Carole and Russell offloading renovated home

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Auctioneer Damien Cooley will be selling Simon and Shannon's apartment on The Block Glasshouse, marking Cooley's sixth appearance on The Block.
This time, he's teaming up with Andrew McCann at Jellis Craig Bennison MacKinnon, a managing director at the agency.
Cooley was most recently seen on The Block Fans v Faves, where he auctioned Kyal and Kara's apartment. The pair won $565,250 after Cooley secured a $2.44 million price for their three storey Albert Park conversion. Kyal and Kara came third overall last season, after winners Steve and Chantelle, who sold their apartment for $2.47 million ($636,000 above the adjusted reserve) and twins Alisa and Lysandra, whose offering attracted a $2,375,000 bid ($616,000 above the reserve).
Tasmanian brothers Simon and Shannon will be hoping Cooley can repeat his performances on the second and sixth seasons of The Block, where he secured wins for Andrew and Jamie and Phil and Amity respectively.
Cooley's debut on The Block came in season two, when he auctioned the winning apartment. Andrew Rocheford and Jamie Nicholson's renovated manly apartment earned the then couple $78,000 plus an additional $100,000 winner's prize.
He returned for the show's third season, auctioning Mark and Duncan's renovated apartment. The duo made the lowest profit of any of the teams that season, with a $47,000 profit.
But Cooley improved greatly on that result with the sale of Phil and Amity's apartment in The Block All Stars.
The winning couple made a $295,000 profit when Cooley secured a $1.67 million bid for the two bedroom Bondi apartment.
Cooley also auctioned Matt and Kim's apartment on The Block Sky High, delivering a $1,205,000 million price for the couple, who took home a $250,000 profit.
The auctioneer is no stranger to television outside of The Block. He has also appeared on The Renovators, Under the Hammer, Hot Auctions and Selling Houses Australia.
All the teams on The Block Glasshouse have <a href="/expert-insights/building/karl-gillon-takes-on-his-third-televised-the-block-sales-campaign">secured agents</a> ahead of their 11 October auctions. Maxine and Karstan have already begun their marketing campaign, advertising their apartment on listing websites. Early in the season, the couple also discussed creating a marketing book for prospective buyers to thumb through on their way through the home.
Ray White agent Matt White has also been busy marketing Michael and Carlene's unit, with two private invitation only inspections. So far, 130 people have inspected the apartment.
White said the apartment received a positive response at the exclusive inspections.
"The inspections weren’t open to anyone, we selected serious buyers and investors, buyers agents and Ray White colleagues with active buyers in the area to view the property," said White.
The public will have a chance to see the apartments for themselves at a rather less exclusive event - the open for inspections. All five apartments will be open to the public on the weekend of 20 September and 21 September.
Picture courtesy of Channel 9.
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The Block's Simon and Shannon bring back auctioneer Damien Cooley

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The new Masterplanned community Valley Park was launched yesterday by Australand, City of Hume mayor Casey Nunn and the Victorian Minister for Housing, Wendy Lovell.
The new <a href="https://www.australand.com.au/Our-Properties/Apartments-Homes/Jumpin-Valley-Park" target="_blank">Valley Park</a> development in Westmeadows will provide new homes, with the entire final development valued at approximately $160 million. It is a partnership between Australand and the Victorian Government, with the state government providing $56 million.
“With the establishment of brand new, quality housing, this development will provide further opportunities for locals in Westmeadows and nearby suburbs,” said Lovell.
“The Napthine Government invested $56 million in the Valley Park redevelopment, which will help provide 354 high-quality homes as part of our focus on supporting vulnerable people, while also creating a more diverse community in Westmeadows,” she said.
Australand general manager Rob Pradolin said that the key objective is to use the multi-use centre to get residents to interact and meet each other.
<blockquote>
“The Napthine Government invested $56 million in the Valley Park redevelopment" - Victorian Minister for Housing
</blockquote>
Construction is currently underway, with 320 lots expected on completion. Previously, it was announced that 110 social housing properties and 34 independent living units as part of an aged care precinct, as well as a 120 bed aged care home from Baptcare, would be built. Parklands and community facilities will be included.
The first houses are expected to settle from this month onwards.
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Australand launches Valley Park, Victoria

Australia’s only acreage display village launched in Queensland

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Rockbank North, a joint venture between Jayaland Corporation Victoria Investments &amp; Properties and Mirvac, will be the largest masterplanned community in Melbourne’s Western Growth Corridor. It is located between Melton and Caroline Springs.
The approved site in the Rockbank North Precinct Structure Plan is a major landholding of 711 hectares, 29 kilometres from Melbourne’s CBD. It was approved in June 2012 through amendment C120 to the Melton Planning Scheme.
On completion, it is expected to include 7,100 residential lots, three primary schools, a secondary school, health and education precinct, an indoor sports facility and open park spaces. It will also include a major and local town centre of 36,500 square metres and 5,700 square metres of floor area respectively.
<img src="/images/2014/09/08/rockbank02.jpg" alt="">
Property Observer understands that the total value of the project will exceed $2 billion when considering construction and civil activity, with some placing the figure as high as $4.5 billion.
It will be serviced by existing infrastructure including Rockbank train station, the Western Highway, Deer Park Bypass and Melton Freeway. The proposed Outer Metropolitan Ring Road would also benefit the new suburb.
Rockbank North will be provided an internal bus network linking the residents to the train station and main bus stop.
<img src="/images/2014/09/08/rockbank03.jpg" alt="">
The majority of housing will be conventional residential, with medium density residential around the local town centre. Much of the high density offerings will be near passive, unencumbered open space.
Previous Mirvac data, from a 2011 ASX release, suggested that 19,000 residents are expected to call new suburb home.
Mirvac managing director Nick Collishaw at the time noted that the acquisition was in line with their residential strategy, ensuring they stay “at the forefront of community development in Australia”.
Collshaw said that the region expected to deliver significant growth and become a pre-eminent masterplanned community.
The site will be announced by Minister for Planning Matthew Guy this Wednesday.
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