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

Joel Robinson

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

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

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

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

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

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

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

NAB funds $1 billion Surfers Paradise apartment development, Palmera

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

First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party

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

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

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Our vision of the Great Australian Dream is changing. Today’s houses are greener, more efficient and safer. However shifting demographics and changes in how modern Australian families are living point to a new emerging trend: livability.
According to the Productivity Commission, investment in housing remains the single biggest financial commitment that Australians make in their lifetime. However, in reality, our lifetime investment is not designed or built for a lifetime’s use.  We design and build our houses for a ‘Peter Pan population’ – people who never get older, never have illness, and never have a change in life circumstance or ability.
Demand for homes that are more flexible, versatile and lifespan sensitive is on the rise and the market drivers are clear.
Consider this: baby boomers, the first of which turned 65 just last year, are part of ageing explosion like none other in Australia’s history. By the middle of this century, one in four Australians will be aged 65 years and over. This massive market of home owners doesn’t want to live in a home that screams “old age”.  These homeowners want safe functionality, but they don’t want to give up attractive design.
For the first time in three decades, the number of couple households with children is on the rise. And current trends suggest that many of these children will stay in the family home well into their late twenties. Women are returning to the workforce in increasing numbers after having children. Households where both parents are employed have increased dramatically, making up nearly 60% of all couple households compared to 40% in the early 1980s. As a result, grandparents are increasingly becoming the primary carers of their grandchildren while their own children work.
What does this tell us? At any one point in the average day three generations pass through the typical Australian home.
The truth is our homes aren’t designed with safety and comfort of the whole family in mind.  A recent UK study revealed that the average home design caters for just 18% of people.  If you are male, fit, aged between 18 and 45, average height and weight and right handed then you are one of the lucky few who fit the ‘average’ profile.  The remaining 82% of people have to accept homes that don’t meet their current or future needs.
Qualitative research undertaken with recent homebuyers, builders and renovators indicates that Australian’s are becoming more aware of the benefits of livable design. Most believe that livable design features make homes safer and easier to live in. For older homeowners, more than 80% support the widespread adoption of livable design features.
International research has found that it is 22 times more efficient to design your home to meet your changing needs upfront, than it is to undertake an expensive retrofit.  And yet, few people consider livability when they are buying or building a new home.
<a href="https://www.lha.org.au" target="_blank">Livable Housing Australia</a> (LHA) is driving a transformation in the way we design and deliver the Australian dream home.  LHA’s practical, common sense guidelines to livability, the livable housing design guidelines, outline simple and straightforward design features that can be incorporated into any new or existing home, whether a detached house or apartment dwelling.  The designs of more than 250 individual dwellings have already achieved the livable housing design quality mark that attests to enhanced livability.
Up-and-coming and innovative builders are beginning to incorporate the livable housing design features into their homes because these features don’t cost more to incorporate upfront, aren’t difficult to include, and because people love the end product – a more livable home.  As president of the Building Designers Association of Victoria, Michael O’Sullivan, says:  “The guidelines present an unmissable opportunity for us to integrate livability principles into beautiful and practical design that can be enjoyed by everyone.”
Livable homes are safe for young children, able to meet the changing needs of families, support people with disabilities to live independently and help older Australians to age in place.  The bottom line is simple.  A livable home is really just good design.
 
<hr>
 Amelia Starr is executive director of <a href="https://www.lha.org.au" target="_blank">Livable Housing Australia</a>
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astarr-aHcncDs3r3

Flexibility and livability - the changing face of the Great Australian Dream: Amelia Starr

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Nine times out of 10 property owners will re-decorate or freshen up their interiors when they are getting ready to sell. Some even go to the trouble of baking bread and brewing coffee for the home opens, all in the belief that the look and indeed the smell of the place will lure a potential buyer over the line or better still, maximise the sale price.
Investment property owners should take heed of the power of visual presentation too if they want to achieve the highest rental income. In my experience as the owner of a property management company, a clever and inexpensive makeover can justify an increase of 10-20% on the average asking price for the property.
If you have bought wisely, that is, a quality apartment in a prime location close to business and recreational hubs and most importantly with good access to public transport, it will attract the professional executive - usually a quality tenant prepared to pay a higher rent for executive level furnished accommodation.
The key to attracting the corporate rental is a combination of the amenities available and the interior design. Remembering that corporate executives have been increasingly renting furnished accommodation or serviced apartments over the past decade due to perceived value for money compared to hotel stays, but also because many are seeking a more homely environment, particularly those executives who travel regularly.
Furnishing your investment property in order to maximise your potential income needs to strike a balance between providing a smart minimalist boutique hotel style interior and a more homely ambience. Here are 10 tips to create an alluring home style stay:
Tip one : Bedrooms- it is better to have a queen bed not a double in the main bedroom and a twin share arrangement in the second bedroom. Add bedside lamps to create mood lighting at night and choose white linen for a fresh look. Remember white linen can be washed at 70 degree Celsius without the threat of the material fading. Incorporate some inexpensive matching throw rugs and cushions which can be changed when they become tired looking. The key is the bed which needs to look inviting – plumped up wth fluffy pillows and a doona.
Tip two: Kitchen- try not tocrowd the kitchen with things on the benches especially if the space is tight. Make sure you offer a coffee plunger, tumblers, mugs and wine glasses for four-six people. Don’t buy expensive utensils and cookware, but do make sure that you a buy a range that can be topped up when things are broken or go missing. Add a bowl of fruit as part of a welcome pack for guests.
Tip three: Living room- once again keep it fairly minimalistic but try and add a few homely touches such as a vase of flowers on arrival, prints on the walls and a couple of ornaments. A flat screen TV is a must, as is the Foxtel and internet connection. Once again decorate with matching inexpensive cushions, mood lighting and a rug under the coffee table to create a warm cosy feel.
Tip four: Balconies- if there is room, a BBQ and a table and chairs for tenants to enjoy outdoor dining is a bonus. Candles on the table will give a nice ambience at night. Be sure to wash balconies down every so often as they can become dust collectors.
Tip five: Laundry- is a great asset if you have one so ensure you have a washer/dryer if space is tight, otherwise separate appliances are ideal. An ironing board and an iron is a must and a collapsible clothes stand is always handy. Be sure to have a starter kit of laundry powder for short stay guests as busy executives will appreciate not having to go out for some.
Tip six: Welcome packs- whether you have a long-term tenant or a short-term guest, people want to feel that the property is loved and cared for. The small touches can often leave a positive impression. Welcome packs are appreciated and can kick off the guest’s stay positively as they won’t be expecting your generosity. It doesn’t have to be expensive. For short-term stays it can be a starter kit with sachets of tea, coffee, milk, loaf bread and fruit. Or simply a bowl of green apples on the dining room table.
Tip seven: General paintwork- you shouldmake sure it isn’t grubby. Wash marks off with sugar soap and keep skirtings clean and dust-free. If it is tired looking it is a good investment to give it a lick of paint with a neutral colour.
Tip eight: Furniture- needs to look near-new. If it is starting to show some wear and tear then look at the ranges offered at Target, Ikea and Freedom. If your furnished property is more appealing it will achieve a higher occupancy rate and therefore you will receive a higher annual income.
Tip nine: Budget- to set up an average sized one-bedroom apartment with new furniture and all the necessary equipment plus paintwork you could budget around $7000-8,000. For a two-bedroom apartment you would be looking at approximately $9,000-$10,000. You don’t need to buy expensive to impress. You can create a champagne look on a beer budget with some clever interior design tricks.
Tip 10: Interior styling- if you don’t have the artistic confidence, select a property management service that can offer a free interior styling service. Chances are they have the right mindset that you need and will go the extra mile to help you achieve the highest possible occupancy levels and maximise your rental returns. An absolute must if you want to make your property a good investment!
Never miss a story: sign up to Property Observer’s <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe">FREE daily newsletter</a> and find our best stories on <a href="https://twitter.com/propertyobs?lang=en">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/propertyobserver">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/property-observer">LinkedIn</a>.”
<hr>
 Keris Hodge is the owner and director of <a href="https://www.apartmentservice.com.au/" target="_blank">The Apartment Service</a> .
The Apartment Service is a family business, established by Keris’ father in 1989. The company has a portfolio of over 300 executive standard furnished apartments and homes located throughout Sydney.
 
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10 tips to furnish your apartment and attract executive professionals: Keris Hodge

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Hi Margaret, 
 I am interested in buying a property in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ropes Crossing NSW</a>, The developer Bells River have asked me to sign two contracts: one for the land and the other for the house. I have to pay interest only when the house is being contructed.
 On the other hand I went to another developer and he said that he only has one contract, one for both land and house together. You just have to pay $10,000 up-front and the rest I have to pay after it has been constructed.
 I am still confused about what to do and where to go. Please help me one this.
Thanks,
 Ahsan
 
Hi Ahsan,
When you build a ‘project home’ or buy a house and land package, you are essentially buying directly from a builder.  He has already purchased the land and is about to undertake the construction on your behalf.

It’s very normal for you to be requested to firstly pay a deposit equal to the amount of the land, and then make progress payments, usually around five of them, as the construction gets to the different stages.   As you make these payments, you will pay interest to the bank and you won’t have any income to assist you with that.  I usually advise investors to add the total of these interest payments to the starting value to get a better idea of the true ‘buy in value’, as this is what should be used to asses true yield.

These days though, some larger developers offer, as an incentive to use their company, the option of simply making a small deposit at commencement and a final payment at the end.  This can have both advantages and disadvantages.  Obviously you don’t have any costs to meet until the property is ready for occupation, however it can place a strain on the developer, who still has to buy the materials and pay the holding costs on the land. unless they are exceptionally well financed, there could be issues down the track, such as a situation where they cannot meet their current liabilities, which may result in liquidation before you take delivery of your completed property.

I’d chat to the one offering the ‘buy now, pay later’ option and make sure that they can reassure you of their financial stability.  Outside of that, it comes down to what you can afford to do and whose product you think suits you the most.
Regards,
Margaret

<hr>
Margaret Lomas is a best-selling author and writes and hosts the popular Property Success With Margaret Lomas and heads up the panel on Your Money, Your Call, both on Sky News.
She is the founder of <a href="https://destiny.com.au/dotnetnuke/en-au/home.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Destiny</a>.
Have a property question? Ask Margaret!
 

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How do I choose between house and land projects and why are the contracts structured differently? Ask Margaret

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Houses are just like people; it’s easy to fall in love with them based on the outside, but the true measure of their worth isn’t skin deep - it’s what’s on the inside that counts!  The interior layout of a home, or floor plan, is one of the most important factors when it comes to measuring a home’s success. If you’ve got a good floor plan, you’re much more likely to enjoy your home.  
Architects and designers do lots of training to create beautiful, functional floor plans, but there are a few simple ideas that anyone can use.  
For a floor plan to be “good”, it has to be good for you. In other words, it has to meet your individual needs and wishes. Start your house plan search with a clear idea of what you’re after, and you’re halfway there.  
Ask yourself these questions:  
<ul>
<li>
Do you like informal, open plan living, or do you want traditional segregated spaces with higher levels of privacy? There’s been a big movement toward open plan living but that kind of layout doesn’t suit everyone.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you want a house with flexible rooms that can be used for different purposes if your needs change? If you’re after a “home for life”, you might want a floor plan with rooms that can be used in different ways. Some plans, for example, have a small room off the master bedroom that you can use as a nursery, study or a walk-in closet depending on your stage of life.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you have lots of overnight guests? If you have a lot of people staying over, you might want to consider an extra bathroom and some extra living space so guests can enjoy a bit of time to themselves. There’s nothing worse than the feeling of tripping over each other.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you need to work from home? If you do a lot of work at home, you might like to consider a floor plan with a study nook off the main living area. A study nook can give you privacy and space without making you feel isolated. If you have a home based business with clients or customers visiting, you might need an area that you can zone-off, so other parts of the home remain private during business hours.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you need a separate space for teenagers or small children? A family room off the kitchen is a good option for homes with young children and a games area that’s removed from the “adult zone” will afford some privacy for older kids.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you need lots of storage space? Floor plans with lots of closets and walk-in robes will make your life a lot easier, and storage in the roof will help as well.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Do you want a home with indoor-outdoor living? If you love the great outdoors, choose a plan where the main living spaces are connected to the backyard or terrace. Double doors from the living room will open up the house for entertaining and make it easy to accommodate large groups of people.
</li>
</ul>
Good floor plans are also characterised by a range of general features that are nice to have in any home. These include:  
<ul>
<li>
A wide entry foyer. An entry space with lots of room for a hall table and drop zone is convenient and welcoming.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Natural light and ventilation. Try to look for layouts that allow for as much light and ventilation as possible. A home with natural light and airflow is generally happier and healthier.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
An open kitchen. For almost everyone, the kitchen is the heart of the home and people naturally congregate there. Even if you don’t do lots of gourmet cooking, try to look for a kitchen that’s large enough for seating so other people can keep you company while you work.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Adequate room sizes. Rooms should be large enough to accommodate your preferred furniture layout, but not so large that they feel cold and uninviting.
</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Privacy for the bedrooms and bathrooms. Private spaces in the home should be screened off from public areas like the kitchen and lounge room, and there should be privacy between bedrooms as well. Look for homes with closets on either side of common walls to increase acoustic insulation.
</li>
</ul>
  Once you’ve got your individual requirements sorted out and you’ve found a floor plan that includes some of the positive general features listed above, it’s time to use a bit of intuition and make an assessment of issues like proportion and flow.  
If you’re inspecting a home, where do you instinctively want to walk when you open the front door? Does the sequence of rooms feel logical? Do you have to walk around obstacles or back-track to reach certain rooms? A good layout will optimize the circulation pattern so there are no wasted steps and the “energy” flows. Similarly, good floor plans will have rooms that are well-proportioned. There are various theories in relation to proportion, but generally speaking, try to avoid long, narrow rooms and favour compact rectangular shapes instead.  
Following these steps will help you find a good floor plan, but remember, houses, like people, aren’t always perfect. Sometimes a little compromise can lead you to a nurturing home that feels right, even if it doesn’t tick all the boxes.
 
<hr>
 Sam Crothers is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.houseplanology.com/">Houseplanology.com</a>, a home website that includes design and building resources, interviews with architects and designers, and a house plan directory.
You can contact Sam via <a target="_blank" href="mailto:%20sam@houseplanology.com">email</a> or on <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/Houseplanology">Twitter</a>.
 
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It's the inside that counts! What makes a good floor plan: Sam Crothers

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Our tweet of the day comes from @Aussie who are providing some great DIY tips on their blog for how you can do-up the front yard of your property.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Spring clean your front yard with some easy DIY landscaping ideas! <a target="_blank" href="https://t.co/1ixQBR1wGG">https://t.co/1ixQBR1wGG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23DIY&amp;src=hash">#DIY</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23gardening&amp;src=hash">#gardening</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23landscaping&amp;src=hash">#landscaping</a> <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23homeimprovement&amp;src=hash">#homeimprovement</a>
— Aussie (@Aussie) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/Aussie/statuses/384830707706888192">October 1, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
We especially love this tip about mailboxes.
"Mailbox: if your mailbox has seen better days it might be time for a replacement. Basic mailboxes are fairly inexpensive but if you want to bring life to your old mailbox a lick of paint and maybe even some new street number signage will make your postman smile," their blog notes.
It can be a cheap fix up, along with those street numbers which you can pick up at Bunnings for a minimal outlay, that could just make your property sparkle a little bit more.
For every renovator, you need to be thinking - minimal outlay for maximum return. And remember, first impressions do count when it comes to property.
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Quick front yard fixes

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Professional renovator Belinda Grundy has seven top tips for the best ways to spend $10,000 to maximise return when renovating. While some of it involves direct cash spending some involves more of a change in thinking.
 
TIP One – Think like a buyer!
You have to disconnect yourself from the property and start looking at it from a buyer’s point of view. Walk through your home and inspect it like a house-hunter and take note of the things or areas you liked and disliked. This will give you an idea on the areas that you need to repair or change. Don’t think like an owner and change hats. This will save you some money.
TIP Two – Know your market.
Time to quiz your real estate agent. Ask them the type of buyer who will buy your home. Also, you have to ask your agent the type of buyers who buy homes in your neighborhood. The information you get will be very useful in deciding how you will charm these kinds of buyers to your home. As an example, if your home is suitable for retirees, then you should highlight the areas that you think most seniors would love to see. These are the parts of your home that you need to spend on to give your prospective buyers a ‘something to consider’ in their decision in buying your home.
TIP Three – The street appeal.
Make the exterior of your home a real ‘head-turner’.  You want to pull those buyers in. Give them the ‘love at first sight effect’. So how do we do this? Stand back and look at your property. You might paint the exterior of your home, pull out all the weeds, add some stones and neat and tidy plants – make your home look picture perfect even from afar.
Do not think that painting your home is costly. Actually, this is the best cost-cutting solution to make something old brand-new. So you want to budget your cash, right? This will really make your home appear well-maintained and even stand out.
TIP Four – WOW rooms.
Choose your room that you want to highlight and devote some of your budget to make this a WOW room. The WOW room is usually the room that made you buy the property. We want the buyers to feel an emotional buy in to this room. We want them to imagine themselves in that room spending their afternoon after a hard day’s work or with their children. For an investor, this room needs to be the room that they know the tenant will suit and love.
How do we create this WOW room? Easy – you can position your furniture to make the room look as large as possible. Make the room feel airy and spacious. Leave good walkways through the room so that people can move around easily.
Creating the WOW room need not be expensive. If you think your furniture seem outdated, you can always hire this in the weeks you need to present your home. Always remember that WOW rooms are about showing off, not overdoing it… and remember it is for your target market.
TIP Five – It’s the little things!
If you’re planning to change something in your home, like your door knobs or furniture, don’t just buy the first thing that you see in improvement stores. First, be mindful of the design you want. Then, you have to scour what’s available. You will be surprised to know that you can find the perfect items for your home at a cheaper price. 
Putting more effort in looking for anything that you need for your renovation can save you more dollars.  Some of my favourite and creative ways are exactly that, going with a contemporary theme of little things like changing fittings - for example tap ware accessories and door handles. 
You would be amazed that a spray of tiles in a 60s bathroom, fix any window furnishings and changing the furniture to replicas can work wonders, all for minimal dollars. A bathroom, for example, with a spray, glass shower screen and fittings could be $1,500
TIP Six – Declutter, clean, organise.
This is probably the simplest way to give your home the appeal it needs and could be free! Everyone wants to enter a home that is clean and neat. Make the floors sparkling clean, remember hygiene sells – doing this will catch the eye of anyone. It gives the impression that this house is really well maintained. If you want to get a cozy effect, aside from being clean, put some fresh flowers on the counter of your kitchen. The smell of fresh flowers gives a feeling of being cared for. Appeal is not only seen through the eyes. Stimulating the senses and allowing no clutter or mess distractions are other ways of putting more appeal to your home and allowing buyers to imagine themselves or their tenant there.
TIP Seven – Light it up!
Install new lights to brighten and open up your home. It’s quite attractive to see a home full of contemporary subtle lights as it gives us a welcoming and cared for impression. Install lights outside your home for the ‘drive-bys’, the entryway, the hallways, the living room – everywhere as much as possible. Having lights all around your home will help highlight the WOW rooms, your street appeal, and the cleanliness and size of your home.
Making your home the ‘beauty queen’ of the market is not costly at all. Just by knowing where to put your money to maximise your home appeal on the market can definitely save you dollars along with broadening your market appeal.
 
<hr>
 Belinda Grundy specialises in pre-sale property presentation. She has a <a href="https://www.propertystylingonline.com.au" target="_blank">DIY Sellers Property Styling Program</a> and an <a href="https://www.bgpropertystyling.com.au" target="_blank">in-home consultation service</a> in Sydney’s Northern Beaches.
 
 
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Belinda Grundy's seven pre-sale renovation tips

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These days what attracts buyers and renters to a property can largely be to do with storage.
In smaller units and townhouses, property owners need to work even harder to squeeze every dollar's-worth out of their space.
Last week, observer Cameron McEvoy wrote on <a target="_blank" href="/news">eight design trends catching the eye of urban renters</a>, and innovative storage space was a key component.
Here, Houzz has tweeted out a good idea for storage in the kitchen. What storage solutions have you had?
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We'd love to know: What storage idea has been a lifesaver in your kitchen? See the full ... <a href="https://t.co/HVJPsOS1J6" target="_blank">https://t.co/HVJPsOS1J6</a> <a href="https://t.co/udoCHm9XIR" target="_blank">pic.twitter.com/udoCHm9XIR</a>
— Houzz (@houzz) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/houzz/statuses/382264427761774593" target="_blank">September 23, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
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Innovative storage solutions

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A dual occ is a dual occ right? 
Well yes, but there are quite a few different ways to create a dual occupancy (dual occ) development.
Firstly, the definition of a dual occ is simply two dwellings on one allotment of land.
The dwellings may be houses that are attached or semi-attached. One house may be old or existing and you build a new dwelling, or you may move an older house onto land with a house on it already. Even adding a granny flat is determined as a dual occupancy.  Or you may buy land where you build new dwellings.
A dual occ may consist of single or double story homes. The new dwellings may be houses, townhouses, villas or townhouses.  They may be attached or detached. If attached, the dwellings make up part of a duplex.  If detached, they will be known as freestanding.
At Property Bloom, we have developed so many dual occs that I’ve lost count.  For our projects we look for three different types of development sites and they fall into three categories:
<ol>
<li>Corner sites. We usually build single story freestanding villas or houses on a corner site with each dwelling facing a different street.</li>
<li>Standard sites. We look for a minimum width of 20m and may build one freestanding villa behind the other.  Usually accessed by a common driveway known as a ‘battleaxe’ handle.  Or we will build a duplex – two attached villas which may face the street or the duplex may run length ways along the site.</li>
<li>Dual streets frontage sites.  Freestanding villas can be built, one facing each street, depending on the size of the site, we may also build a duplex if there is limited area to work with. </li>
</ol>
Below are photos of some different dual occupancy projects build on different sites.
Corner site dual occ with two freestanding villas each faces a different street:
 <img src="/images/stories/2013/09/20/chivers-sept-20-one.jpg" width="470" height="210" alt="chivers-sept-20-one">
<hr>
Dual occ with freestanding villas and a common driveway:
 <img src="/images/stories/2013/09/19/chivers-sept-19-two.jpg" width="470" height="208" alt="chivers-sept-19-two">
<hr>
Attached villas as part of a duplex on corner site: <img src="/images/stories/2013/09/19/chivers-sept-19-four.jpg" width="470" height="215" alt="chivers-sept-19-four"><hr>
Standard site with attached villas as part of a duplex: <img src="/images/stories/2013/09/19/chivers-sept-19-one.jpg" width="470" height="215" alt="chivers-sept-19-four"><hr>
Dual street site with existing house and plan shows the new dwelling:
 <img src="/images/stories/2013/09/19/chivers-sept-19-five.jpg" width="470" height="236" alt="chivers-sept-19-five">
 
<hr>
 Jo Chivers is director of <a style="font-size: 14px;" rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" title="Property Bloom">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
 
 
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Different sites for different types of dual occupancy projects: Jo Chivers

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As property enthusiasts, it's no surprise we come across some design and building elements that just make us wince.
Of course, we all have different tastes, but there are some fairly unanimous dislikes for the modern property buyer.
Here, Property Observer has compiled some of our most irritating things to look at in a property. For renovators, this might even be the list of things to look at changing.
Vote for your most hated, and send us photos and comments to Jennifer Duke  if you've got more that 'get your goat'.
If you disagree, also send in your comments - each to their own.
{module Which of these styles do you dislike the most?}
If you're looking for something more upbeat, then have a look at these <a target="_blank" href="/news">eight quirky design features</a> that observer Cameron McEvoy thinks urban renters are seeking out.
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The ugliest designs of the past, which of these styles do you dislike the most?

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When it comes to renovating and doing so to make a profit, it's not just about taste and making the property look good. It's also about strategy and how you handle the final stages to ensure the valuation stacks up.
Investors Choice Mortgages director, and author of Your Property Success With Renovation, Jane Slack-Smith came into the Property Observer offices to provide our readers with her exclusive tips around these two areas of renovating.
You can see her thoughts in the video below.
{qtube vid:=6T4tG1v3S8o&amp;feature=youtu.be}
Transcript:
When I'm looking for a property to renovate and doing a walk-through and an initial assessment there's a couple of things I look for because I really want to use the minimum amount of money to add the maximum perceived value. I think that's the secret to renovation. What I'm going to look for are twists that I can make. So maybe add an extra bedroom in the current floorplan without doing a structural renovation and within an area where I don't need to go to council to actually have that approved. I love it when I walk into a property and I hear people as they're walking out going 'Oh my gosh that's terrible, did you see that? Oh the smell or that colour'. There are a lot of things that scare people off and they don't actually have the imagination to think a bit of elbow grease or a little bit of paint can actually fix this up.
So I'm looking for those properties that the market has actually written off as well. I think there's also a lot of opportunity when you're looking at cosmetic renovations to actually just look beyond the grime, look beyond the floorplan and look at the actual structure. The importance to me is making every single dollar count in the eye of the valuer, because the valuer is the person who's going to come through and validate what the end value of the property is, which is going to allow me to pull out equity. So if I have to put money into fixing up the gutters, or fixing up pest and building issues then that money isn't going to be seen. So that's what I'm really looking for - problems. I've done most of my research before I even hit the property, so I'm just validating that there's no unseen, or unsightly, or big problems that I could be missing out on.
It's really important, if you've done all the preparation in finding the suburb, the property and then putting your blood, sweat and tears into renovating the property, that you don't just stop there. It's really important that you then continue in the process and release the equity or have the valuer value the property at what you want it to be valued at. So it's really important that you don't just relinquish the responsibility of the assessment of the valuation to the valuer. As a mortgage broker I know that there's a lot of systemisation in the banks these days with valuation, so a lot of valuations are done as kerb-side valuations, which essentially means the valuer doesn't walk through.
It's really important that if you've done a renovation that the valuer walks through because all they have to assess what the property is worth is what you bought the property at and what the comparable sales have been recently. So you really need to work with your mortgage broker and maybe you have to indicate that the loan to value ratio is higher to actually put it into the system to actually allow it to have a full valuation, but you need to have them walking through there. I always make sure that I'm the contact for the valuer, not the real estate agent, not the tenant, because I want to speak to the valuer even if I'm not there on in that state, and I want to coordinate that meeting and give them some extra information.
Honestly, if you employ your valuer yourself in the beginning you're probably looking at them walking through and validating their own research and spending 12 minutes in the property. If it's a bank valuation it's probably more like seven minutes. So you need to make sure that everything just looks right. All they're doing as a valuer is confirming their thoughts on what that property is worth. Most valuers work within two or three suburbs, they've seen so many properties within that area they've done the research before they turn up.
I also have a template that I give to my students that they fill in which pretty much summarizes all the information about that property, the improvements that have been made. I usually a rental assessment by a number of real estate agents, grab a magazine and go to the databank at the back which will tell you what the rental yield is so you can estimate what the value of the property is, and I also give them some comparables. So I physically go out there with my tape measure and measure the front measurement of the property and the side measurement and give them some indications of what a property's measurements are. Are they superior or inferior and give some commentary around recent sales as well.
Valuers often only have the sales that are available to them through RP Data or real estate agents. They're not always up to date with the most recent sales and in a rising market you don't want them to use three month old data, so if you do know of recent sales in the area make sure you do let the valuer know. Let them know the price, the settlement date, the real estate agent and make it easier for them - give them the real estate agents phone number so they can ring them and actually validate that sale because you've done so much work and there's no point in you dropping the ball at the end because this is really what you're doing everything for.
Is there anything in particular you would like to see a video on? Suggestions are always welcome at <a href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
 
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