<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.</p>

<p>A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.</p>

<p>Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]</p>

<p>“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.</p>

<p>From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.</p>

<p>The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]</p>

<p>Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.</p>

<p>A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.</p>

<p>Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]</p>

<p>Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.</p>

<p>“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.</p>

<p>Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]</p>

<p>Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.</p>

<p data-end="8307" data-start="8063">The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.</p>

<p data-end="8543" data-start="8312">“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”</p>

<p data-end="8915" data-start="8548">The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.</p>

<p>The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]</p>


Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

<p>A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.</p>

<p>The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.</p>

<p>Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.</p>

<p>The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.</p>

<p>The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" /></p>

<p>Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.</p>

<p>Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.</p>

<p>The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."</p>

<p>The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" /></p>

<p>Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.</p>

<p>The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.</p>


First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

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<p>A 60-apartment building nine storeys tall would be a rarity almost anywhere along this stretch of Moreton Bay, but that's exactly what's been lodged for a modest Deception Bay street better known for its single-storey weatherboard homes.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherlock-construction-homes">Sherlock Construction Homes</a> is seeking to push Deception Bay’s emerging medium-density housing profile higher, lodging plans for a nine-storey apartment building near the suburb’s shopping centre and foreshore.</p>

<p>Dubbed Grosvenor Apartments, the proposal at 14-20 Grosvenor Terrace would replace two detached homes with a new building designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mode">Mode Design</a>&nbsp;which would&nbsp;reach nearly 30 metres, well above the site’s mapped 21-metre building height.</p>

<p><img alt="First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches 9-storey tower for low-rise Deception Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86c21a25-5a97-4ca7-a361-80757137ea5b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Deception%20da%20front.png?VersionId=aXIujfvEhH33sLHOEjHFv9Ii6qxSvAF4" /></p>

<p>The apartment mix is weighted toward larger homes, with 14 three-bedroom apartments, 31 two-bedroom apartments and 15 one-bedroom apartments. Six apartment types are spread across the floors, ranging from 66 sqm one-bedroom units through to three-bedroom apartments of 116 sqm, most with private balconies or terraces.</p>

<p>Levels one through seven follow a consistent layout of six to eight apartments per floor arranged around a central lift and stair core, with the top floor, level eight, trading one apartment for a landscaped community breakout space rather than repeating the standard layout below.</p>

<p>Ground floor is dedicated to arrival and services, with a lobby, mailroom and manager's office, alongside 91 car spaces.</p>

<p><img alt="First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches 9-storey tower for low-rise Deception Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b098bde0-5fe1-4e6c-9601-e5446612e5fc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Deception%20podium.png?VersionId=A0hfENMNxSxkfh9Jl6D4WJ9XIraeOukA" /></p>

<p>Mode Design's brief describes a "serene coastal-inspired design blending soft curves, natural textures and light-filled spaces to reflect the relaxed Deception Bay lifestyle."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The material palette leans on white and grey render, timber-look aluminium screening and stacked-brick-look finishes, with hanging greenery and vine planting proposed across balcony edges and ground-level walls.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Balconies feature asymmetrical geometries intended to vary the building's rhythm rather than repeat a single module up the tower, while lush planting is concentrated over the entry and level one balconies to soften the building's base.</p>

<p><img alt="First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches 9-storey tower for low-rise Deception Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c05c5693-3e00-42d0-b075-55c36094f4db" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Deception%20da%201.png?VersionId=cMKJgBsBaaVCd2dA5O22SOT38OT_.BPA" /></p>

<p>The design evolved following an April 2025 prelodgement meeting with council. At that stage, the project was conceived as a seven-storey building containing 45 apartments. The subsequently lodged scheme increases the development to nine storeys and 60 apartments while introducing one-bedroom residences to the mix.</p>

<p>Zone Planning argues the additional scale reflects the site's position within an area earmarked for increased residential intensity. The planning report points to the North Lakes-Redcliffe-Moreton Bay Rail corridor strategy, which identifies Deception Bay as a district-level activity centre and supports greater housing choice within urban neighbourhoods.</p>

<p>Market Square Deception Bay, Deception Bay Sports Centre, Deception Bay State School, public transport, community facilities and the Moreton Bay foreshore are all identified within approximately one kilometre of the site, while the property falls within a 400-metre walking catchment of Market Square.</p>

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

<p data-end="587" data-start="368">Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.</p>

<p data-end="778" data-start="589">The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.</p>

<p data-end="907" data-start="780"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.</p>

<p data-end="1052" data-start="909">The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.</p>

<p data-end="1311" data-start="1054">The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.</p>

<p data-end="1451" data-start="1313">The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.</p>

<p data-end="1676" data-start="1453">MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.</p>

<p data-end="1908" data-start="1678">Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.</p>

<p data-end="2142" data-start="1910">The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.</p>

<p data-end="2142" data-start="1910"><img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" /></p>

<p data-end="2308" data-start="2144">MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.</p>

<p data-end="2648" data-start="2310">"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.</p>

<p data-end="2797" data-start="2650">"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."</p>

<p data-end="2938" data-start="2799">The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.</p>

<p data-end="3216" data-start="2940">Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.</p>

<p data-end="3325" data-start="3218">Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.</p>

<p data-end="3442" data-start="3327">"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.</p>

<p data-end="3662" data-start="3444">"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."</p>

<p data-end="3818" data-start="3664">MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.</p>

<p data-end="4076" data-start="3820">"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.</p>

<p data-end="4375" data-start="4078">"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."</p>

<p data-end="4503" data-start="4377">Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.</p>

<p data-end="4741" data-start="4505">"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."</p>

<p data-end="4910" data-start="4743">The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.</p>

<p data-end="4951" data-start="4912">MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.</p>


First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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<p data-end="600" data-start="394">Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.</p>

<p data-end="733" data-start="602">But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.</p>

<p data-end="970" data-start="735">Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.</p>

<p data-end="970" data-start="735">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]</p>

<p data-end="1159" data-start="972">The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.</p>

<p data-end="1357" data-start="1161">It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.</p>

<p data-end="1664" data-start="1517">Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.</p>

<p data-end="1826" data-start="1666">Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.</p>

<p data-end="1826" data-start="1666">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]</p>

<p data-end="2045" data-start="1828">Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.</p>

<p data-end="2269" data-start="2047">"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.</p>

<p data-end="2430" data-start="2271">A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.</p>

<p data-end="2606" data-start="2432">It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.</p>

<p data-end="2724" data-start="2608">At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.</p>

<p data-end="2892" data-start="2726">Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.</p>

<p data-end="2892" data-start="2726">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]</p>

<p data-end="3004" data-start="2894">Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.</p>

<p data-end="3214" data-start="3006">"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.</p>

<p data-end="3670" data-start="3538">&nbsp;</p>

<p data-end="3670" data-start="3538">[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]</p>

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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

<p>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.</p>

<p>That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.</p>

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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<p><span>The majority of development applications in the eastern suburbs relate to renovations and extensions, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
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<p><span>The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. </span>This month’s HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</p>
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<p><span>The report notes renovations are generally made by owner-occupiers looking to enhance their current home to meet their changing needs and include examples such as renovations of terraces in Paddington and Woollahra, to second storey additions to semi-detached homes in Maroubra and Randwick, to huge extensions and renovations to large prestige homes in Vaucluse and Bellevue Hill.</span></p>
<p><span>"While we do see full renovations of units and townhouses in the eastern suburbs, it is more often the case that a part renovation is undertaken to get an uplift in rent for investors, or an uplift in price for owners looking to sell after the renovation," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>These renovations often focus on the works that will give you more bang for their buck such as a new kitchen, bathroom renovation or new floor coverings.</span></p>
<p><span>"Given the local government areas of Woollahra, Waverley and Randwick have a significant proportion of development applications relating to renovations and extensions, we took a look at the number of new development applications lodged so far this year and how that compared to last year," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>In the period to the middle of May this year, Woollahra LGA saw 150 new development applications lodged. This was slightly down on the 170 lodged over the same period last year. </span></p>
<p><span>Waverley had 150 in both years, while Randwick dropped from 270 last year to 215 this year. </span></p>
<p><span>"These numbers may reflect the stronger property market conditions in the first quarter of 2020 compared to 2019, with owners looking to sell rather than stay and renovate, but may also indicate that some owners may be placing larger </span>renovation projects on hold under the current COVID-19 environment," the valuation firm said. </p>
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<p><span>The report notes a good example of uplift in value from renovating in the eastern suburbs is a property at the southern end of the region in Chifley.<br></span></p>
<p><span>The original two storey, semi-detached, four- bedroom, two-bathroom dwelling (pictured below) situated on a thoroughfare opposite Long Bay Correctional Facility, sold in September 2018 for $1.15 million.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/chifley%20before.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>After a full renovation, the property (pictured below) resold in November 2019 for $1.9 million, more than covering the cost of the renovation.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/chifley%20after%20.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
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<p><span>Another example at 9 Jane Street in Randwick saw a detached, single level cottage (pictured below) sell originally </span>for $2.1 million in June 2019, then undergo a full renovation, before selling again in April for an undisclosed price above $3 million.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/randwick%20before.jpg" alt=""></p>
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<p><span>"Both of these examples also benefited from an improving market between purchasing and selling. This is an important consideration for anyone looking to flip, as in a falling market it may be difficult to cover your total costs after completing the renovation," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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Eastern Sydney sees decline in development applications for renovations: HTW residential 

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<p><span>The Northern Beaches area is heavily owner- occupier driven and most renovations occur for this purpose, whether that be for first-home buyers looking to add value or families looking to upsize but remain in their existing homes, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
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<p><span>The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. </span>This month’s HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</p>
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<p>The report notes Freshwater is one of the most active suburbs for home renovations at the moment.</p>
<p>"The suburb has one of the highest number of outstanding development applications in the Northern Beaches Council with around 30, particularly high considering the size of the suburb," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p><span>Entry level into the Freshwater market for housing is typically $1.5 million to $2 million, depending on the position in the suburb, land characteristics and accommodation size.Generally speaking, construction works typically return their cost and often a profit.</span></p>
<p><span>"It is prudent to analyse sales in the local area of finished, renovated homes if creating equity is a major factor in your decision to renovate. </span></p>
<p><span>"The sales will assist in determining what the market is willing to pay for certain products, help set a construction budget and provide design ideas and concepts that the local market is receptive to," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/freshwater%20after%20.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p>A recent example of this is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-freshwater-133208874" target="_blank">70 Soldiers Avenue, Freshwater</a> (pictured above) which sold for $2.725 million on 9 April 2020.</p>
<p><span>This circa 1960s, four-bedroom, three- bathroom property recently underwent a full </span>renovation and is a good benchmark for owners looking to renovate their existing homes in the suburb.</p>
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Freshwater - the most active suburbs for home renovations in the Northern Beaches: HTW residential 

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<p><span>The prestige market on the Upper North Shore is seeing plenty of renovation activity, although this is not uncommon for this area of course, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
<p><span>The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</span></p>
<p><span>"It can traditionally be very hard to find a property that ticks all of your boxes at this higher end of the market, so usually buyers or owners are willing to renovate as needed and are more likely to have the funds to do so.</span></p>
<p><span>"This has become even more pronounced with the dramatic drop in the amount of stock coming onto the market during this COVID-19 period," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Home-owners who were looking to potentially upgrade prior to March this year may now be nervous due to the current uncertainty in the market and decide to renovate instead. </span></p>
<p>The report notes these same owners may now have slightly more time on their hands too, allowing them to investigate the renovation and associated DA process.</p>
<p><span>Renovations on the Upper North Shore, assuming undertaken to a quality standard, traditionally provide the added value of the completed work at a minimum.</span></p>
<p><span>"Of course there is always the odd property where over-capitilisation has occurred, but it is hard to go wrong in this sector of the market if owners follow the basic renovation rules," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>An example of a recent purchase and renovation job re-sold in March this year for a substantially higher price.</span></p>
<p><span>The period property At 36 Powell Street, Killara (pictured below) sold in May 2015 for $2.75 million and was in dated condition throughout.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/killara%20before.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><span>After some small extension work, floor plan re-configuration and a full internal renovation, the property re-sold in March this year for $6.1 million (pictured below).</span></p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/killara%20after%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><span>"Of course there has been some market growth over this period too, but it is still a good example of the added value of quality renovation works.</span></p>
<p><span>"Situated on a good sized block with a highly desirable north-to-rear aspect and located in a well-regarded street, this was always going to see a substantial increase in value," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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Upper North Shore Sydney sees increasing renovation activity: HTW residential 

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<p><span>If the queues at Bunnings are anything to go by, home renovation seems to be on the rise in western Sydney, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
<p><span>The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</span></p>
<p><span>"Niggling jobs that have been put on the backburner are now being addressed, be it patching a hole in the wall, reconfiguring the rear garden or even a second storey extension," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Western Sydney is a diverse area for real estate and this allows residents a larger choice in property.</span></p>
<p><span> Families who have outgrown their existing property have a number of options such as upgrading to a new property in the growth areas or buy an existing dwelling and renovate, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>The north-west and south-west growth precincts have seen substantial development of new dwellings on smaller allotments over the past five years, with many buyers upgrading to these ready- made new products rather than undergoing an extensive renovation on their current dwelling.</span></p>
<p><span>"Given the lower price points in western Sydney compared to eastern Sydney, it is vital to analyse the current renovated sales to ensure you are not overcapitalising.</span></p>
<p><span>"This is particularly important for investors as it is dead money that could have been used elsewhere.Owner-occupiers may not be as concerned as over time these costs will be absorbed as the market improves," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>For years, investors have been actively buying older run down properties in western Sydney and updating the dwellings to not only add value but increase rental return.</span></p>
<p><span>The addition of a well-placed granny flat in the rear yard further increases the yield for the investor.</span></p>
<p>An example where this has worked is at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-whalan-132604618" target="_blank">12 Aitape Crescent, Whalan</a> (pictured below) in the Blacktown LGA.</p>
<p><span>This three-bedroom, one- bathroom dwelling sold for $366,000 in February 2019 and after undergoing a full renovation, sold </span>for $520,000 in February 2020 through Raine &amp; Horne Penrith.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/whalan%20before.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><em>Before</em></p>
<p><em><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/whalan%20after%20.jpg" alt=""></em></p>
<p><em>After</em></p>
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<p><span>"Regarding the cost to renovate, it seems that engaging a skilled tradesperson to complete some work is not a cheap exercise.</span></p>
<p><span>"One has only to look at the number of shiny, dual cab utes on development sites to see that skilled tradespeople are in hot demand, mostly thanks to the amount of infrastructure and construction within the Sydney metropolitan area," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>In Prestons, the difference between a renovated and unrenovated entry level home is demonstrated by the results of two sales this year.</span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/prestons%201.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-prestons-132770486" target="_blank">18 Cedar Road</a> (pictured above), an unrenovated property, sold for $676,000 in January, while <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-prestons-133243622" target="_blank">32 Grevillea Crescent</a> (pictured below), with a basic internal renovation, mainly to the kitchen and bathroom, sold for $740,000 at the end of March.</p>
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<p><span>Whilst not a large uplift, it would easily cover the cost of completing the renovation works, the report noted. </span></p>
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Western Sydney home renovation on the rise: HTW residential 

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<p><span>The general sales activity and enquiry in Lismore, Richmond Valley and Kyogle areas have remained quiet, however, there does not seem to be any sense of a catastrophic drop in prices expected, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
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<p><span>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. </span>This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</p>
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<p><span>"Following the COVID-19 restrictions in place from early March 2020, the question frequently asked is “How will the property market react during and after COVID-19?” </span></p>
<p><span>"Nothing much has changed since our foray into this loaded question last month, apart from the fact that at least some restrictions are slowly being lifted," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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<p><span>"Providing locals are able to get back to work or retain employment and regain some sense of normality, a few brave souls have hinted at a launching pad for the local property market to rise!</span></p>
<p><span>"Think about it; the unprecedented low interest rates are unlikely to rise quickly due to a willingness by government and lenders alike to encourage the country to get going again...and this could be a scenario for some time yet," the valuation firm added. </span></p>
<p><span>If a potential property investor, first home buyer or upgrader has all the boxes ticked for the lender, today could be a very good time to buy, the report noted. </span></p>
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<p><span>Rental accommodation queries remain relatively strong.</span></p>
<p><span>With interest rates now at record low levels, there are a number of opportunities some may not have considered outside of the desire to buy a new build. </span></p>
<p><span>Renovation could potentially feature in the minds of investors, developers, first home buyers and even upgraders. </span>Borrow a few dollars to put some new life back into the tired and dated home.</p>
<p><span>The report suggests the cost is naturally going to be a key ingredient in the decision making as well as the end value of the final product.</span></p>
<p><span>"The option to do this in the Lismore region is to find an established, three-bedroom, two-bathroom dwelling within the $300,000 to $400,000 price bracket," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>For, Casino and Kyogle, a similar real estate product would be in the region of $250,000 to $350,000.</span></p>
<p><span>A three bedroom house in Casino was sold for $295,000 in April. </span></p>
<p>The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-casino-132689386" target="_blank">15 Beith Street</a> (pictured below) comes with L-shaped lounge and dining, modern kitchen, home office and garden shed.</p>
<p><span>It is located close to the Golf Course. </span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/casino.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><span>"There is no particular area of Lismore, Casino or Kyogle that has the upper hand on renovation activity.... diamonds in the rough can be found anywhere if you look hard enough," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>"Renovating an established dwelling rather than commencing a new build can achieve a lot....if done properly." </span></p>
<p><span>A budget of less than $100,000 could provide an updated kitchen, bathroom, ensuite, general interior and exterior painting and floor coverings.</span></p>
<p><span>"Provided the renovation work emphasises the positive features that are already there OR introduces new features that the market place desires (do your homework for the areas you wish to invest or live in as each locality is different), then the cost to added value ratio could yield some reasonable capital gain....and nicer digs to reside in!" the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>However, the trick is not to over capitalise. </span></p>
<p>A good option is to seek out those large homes with only two bedrooms and a large living space, the report noted. </p>
<p>Cut the living room to provide a third bedroom and the rental would naturally improve to reflect that of a three-bedroom home.</p>
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<p><span>Older style, turn of the century homes are quite popular for those with an interest in timber and the old world appeal.</span></p>
<p>One good example is a property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-girards+hill-129516530" target="_blank">62 Cathcart Street, Girards Hill</a> (pictured below), out of the flood area and an easy walk into the CBD.</p>
<p><span>The property </span>is a beautiful, circa 1880s timber home with expansive verandahs and fully renovated interior that maintains the heritage character set amongst well established landscaping, trees and mature gardens.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/girards%20hill%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>It sold for $880,000 in mid 2019, the price being a record for the suburb of Girards Hill in recent years.</p>
<p>However, the cost to renovate and maintain such prized, older-style, weatherboard homes needs to be strictly monitored as one could easily get carried away.</p>
<p><span>"In summary, from a conservative perspective, the purchase of an established house with opportunities to renovate would be a more viable option and purposeful stepping stone to something newer in the future without the millstone of large debt around the neck.</span></p>
<p><span>"There are land and house packages available today which are competitively priced but are still above the expected price for an established dwelling of average to moderate appeal.</span></p>
<p><span>"Besides, the established house does provide the opportunity for the owner to put their stamp of identity on </span>the renovation project whereas a house and land package is simply that - what you see is what you get and any subtle changes to the design could bring on a wallet attack." </p>
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Tips for renovating established dwellings in Lismore/Casino/Kyogle: HTW residential 

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<p>Well-renovated character homes in Byron are particularly desired in the market and could be targeted by a buyer renovating for profit, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</p>
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<p><span>"One month on and what was a blurry view of the post-COVID-19 property market is slowly coming into sharper focus, however with updates on travel restrictions, infection rates and government assistance packages coming at us thick and fast, the situation could be best described as fluid.</span></p>
<p><span>"A month ago, we were staring down the barrel of a lock down into September. The latest, good news is that intrastate travel in New South Wales will now be allowed from the start of July. </span>This will be a welcome relief for the cash strapped tourism sector in Byron Bay and the surrounding shire," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p>The report notes whilst the lucrative overseas market and interstate market is still out of reach, any visitor numbers are better than no visitor numbers for now. That is the good news.</p>
<p>There is, however, mounting evidence that residential sale prices in the shire may have softened since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.</p>
<p><span>The following three examples show that some sellers have had to accept lower sale prices post-COVID-19 after listing their properties pre- COVID-19.</span></p>
<p><span>Exact property addresses are not given to protect the vendor’s and buyer’s privacy, however these are confirmed sales unless stated otherwise.</span></p>
<p><span>1. Acreageproperty, Binna Burra. </span><span>Listedin February 2020 for $1.35 million. Sold in April 2020 for $1.2 million, an 11.1 per cent difference between list price and sale price.</span></p>
<p><span>2. Acreage Property, Nashua. </span><span>Listed in February 2020 with a price guide of $1.29 million to $1.41 million. Sold in April 2020 for $1.08 million, a difference between price guide and sale price of 16.3 to 23.4 per cent.</span></p>
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<p><span>3. Duplex unit, Byron Bay (under contract). </span>Listed in February 2020 with a price guide of $1.1 million to $1.2 million.Price guide adjusted in April 2020 to $995,000 to $1.065 million and is now under contract for $1.02 million, a difference between February price guide and sale price of 7.2 to ten per cent.</p>
<p><span>"Buyers and sellers should not be alarmed by these examples, but they should be alert to the fact that some properties are selling at prices well below the seller’s expectations," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>In the current market, sellers should be keeping right up to date on what is happening in their locations and be prepared to listen to the market rather than their hearts.</span></p>
<p><span>Buyers too, need to do their research, as there appears to be the opportunity to purchase at the lower end of some sellers’ price expectations, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>"The bottom line is that there appears to be increased volatility across the market and at the moment, residential property can be expected to sell within a wider than usual price range," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>The report suggests buying a property at the lower end of the price range increases the opportunity to renovate for profit.</span></p>
<p><span>Renovating for profit is, however, traditionally fraught with danger due to cost overruns, over capitalising and market movement. </span>It is best left to experienced renovators; novices need to tread carefully.</p>
<p><span>The Byron Shire is </span>largely established with only a small number of residential estates offering new builds in the hinterland localities of Mullumbimby and Bangalow.</p>
<p>There are many older units and houses in beachfront towns and hinterland localities that could be described as ripe for renovation.</p>
<p>The report notes well-renovated character homes (timber houses from 1900 to the 1960s) are particularly desired in the market and could be targeted by a buyer renovating for profit.</p>
<p>A renovated three bedroom house in Ocean Shores has recently been sold for $745,000.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-ocean+shores-132825202" target="_blank">51A Balemo Drive</a> home (pictured below) comes with multiple living spaces, modern kitchen, and undercover outdoor space. </p>
<p>It also features solar hot water system, yard with established trees and scope for potential granny flat. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/ocean%20shores.jpg" alt=""></p>
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<p><span>One of the more fashionable and profitable ways for owner-occupiers to add value to their properties in recent years has been the addition of a second dwelling or studio to their land.</span></p>
<p><span>The construction of a council-approved, self- contained bungalow or studio in a backyard has given many Byron Shire residents a steady income stream or somewhere for the extended family to live.</span></p>
<p><span>Notwithstanding the current over supply of rental properties brought about by COVID-19 (see last month’s Month in Review comments), there has been a shortage of properties to rent in the Byron Shire over the past few years and many homeowners and investors have sought to capitalise on this with a bungalow or studio addition.</span></p>
<p><span>Typically, a small two-bedroom studio or bungalow will cost around $175,000 to build, all in.</span></p>
<p><span>It will rent (depending on location) for approximately $375 per week or $19,500 per annum, gross rent.</span></p>
<p>A one bedroom home in <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mullumbimby-427810226" target="_blank">Mullumbimby</a> (pictured below) is currently on the rental market with a price guide of $365 per week.</p>
<p><span>The new home features open plan living, kitchen with gas cooking, separate bedroom and carport. </span></p>
<p><span>It is located within walking distance to town centre. </span></p>
<p><span><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/mullumbimby.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><span>"While you still have to factor in increased mortgage payments, management fees, vacancies, insurance premiums, etc., this represents a gross return of 11% on your investment.</span></p>
<p><span>"So, who wants to build a bungalow in Balgalow?" the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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How to increase the opportunity to profitably renovate in Byron: HTW residential

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<p>Feedback from the Clarence Valley market suggests that the sales volumes are down, enquiry is down and holiday rental demand is down, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
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<p><span>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</span></p>
<p><span>"Agents are reporting that some have taken their listed properties off the market, previously listed holiday properties are being leased out permanently, adding more supply and reducing rents," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Agents are noting though that they are seeing less volume, there are more quality </span>enquiries for sales properties.Value levels seem to have remained relatively stable until now.</p>
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<p><span>The HTW report notes prior to the Coronavirus, renovation was quite strong in the area due to the market rewarding updated, well-presented properties.</span></p>
<p><span>Renovation works are expected to be less common due to the Coronavirus.Renovations may occur in the main parent home as children lose their jobs and want<br>to return home under the safety of greater equity held by their parents in these uncertain times which have negatively impacted employment.</span></p>
<p><span>"Due to the current uncertainty, those with financial resources are more likely able to renovate however working people with a mortgage may decide to defer spending money on renovation due to uncertainty about employment and secure income," the valuation  firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Investors likely are holding off renovating until such time as employment and tenants are in a stronger position to support payments of rent. </span></p>
<p><span>Saying that, bank interest rates are still low and the area is seen as a long term growth area due to the new highway under construction and new jail. </span></p>
<p><span>Renovations are likely still viewed positively by the market, particularly to out of town buyers from capital cities due to their more secure employment and income, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>Renovation work in Grafton and Maclean on older style dwellings around $250,000 to $300,000 are not uncommon and some added value is expected to be rewarded by the market, although there are likely some Heritage issues </span>to contend with in these areas.</p>
<p>A recent sale was a lowest weatherboard home situated within walking distance to Grafton CBD. </p>
<p>The two bedroom, one bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-grafton-132698134" target="_blank">129 Fry Street </a>(pictured below) was sold for $278,000.</p>
<p>The home features lounge room with ornate ceilings, brick fireplace, timber floors and large backyard. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/16/grafton.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>A current listing is a two bedroom Grafton house priced at $260,000.</p>
<p>The 134 Dobie Street home (pictured below) comes with two bedrooms and spacious living room, air conditioning and ceiling fans. </p>
<p>It features hardwood timber flooring thourghout which is sought after by renovators.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/grafton%203.jpg" alt=""> </p>
<p>"In the future, renovation work may likely be reduced due to the uncertainty around employment, expendable income and secure tenants," the valuation firm said. </p>
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Renovation work expected to reduce in Clarence Valley: HTW residential 

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<p><span>The property market in Albury-Wodonga and surrounding region on both sides of the border appears to be holding quite well, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
<p><span>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</span></p>
<p><span>"The cases of COVID-19 have been very, very low and the community has been adhering to all pandemic measures.</span></p>
<p><span>"Most agents are reporting a hold and wait type behaviour across the board, which resulted in significantly reduced sales activity for April and May, with an uptick in this third week </span>of May as restrictions ease and the reopening of schools is now approaching for both New South Wales and Victoria," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p>"With the number of final inspections on new homes and construction reports on proposed new dwellings increasing, we will continue to observe and analyse the likely effects on the tourism industry and the investor market in our region." </p>
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<p><span>If the carpark at Bunnings is any indication, home improvement has been front of mind for many with the expected result surely being property of all types receiving TLC, running second only to the amount of extra dog walking being witnessed across the country.</span></p>
<p><span>"Pre-pandemic vendors making the extra effort in property presentation were certainly reaping the rewards, so post-pandemic we might be set for a very good looking property offering in spring with gardens spruced, DIY updates of bathrooms and painting refreshes creating the longest lines at home improvement centres," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Overall the renovation market in our area is quite targeted, due to property owners’ mobility in the market created by our housing affordability, the report noted. </span></p>
<p><span>The risk of over-capitalising property is real if the price point and location are not spot on.</span></p>
<p><span>The house flippers are mostly purchasers with skill sets to renovate on </span>a budget and this has been very evident in North Albury reaching further north now to Lavington and also parts of south Albury.</p>
<p>A renovated three bedroom unit in Lavington has recently been sold for $226,000.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-lavington-132385398" target="_blank">2/585 Heathwood Avenue </a>home (pictured below) comes with open plan living, contemporary kitchen and three bedrooms.</p>
<p>The unit is located in a well-maintained complex of only two. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/lavington.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The report suggests the other active market segment for renovations are high end additions and renovations of character dwellings in central, small pockets of North Albury and all of old East Albury.</p>
<p>A three bedroom house located in Albury's iconic Jones Street is currently on the market with a price guide of $649,000.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-albury-133673950" target="_blank">722 Jones Street home </a>(pictured below) comes with renovated bathroom, update kitchen, and open plan dining and lounge. </p>
<p>It also features enclosed sunroom, triple length single garage and undercover carport. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/albury%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>With only a select few master builders available, waiting times for these projects can be expected, up to two years for some builders, so substantial planning and patience is required in these good locations.</p>
<p><span>Renovation is not for the faint-hearted and the decision to renovate may sit below upgrading to a </span>newer home, moving to a better location, building from scratch or demolishing and rebuilding.</p>
<p>The rewards are there for the very astute home owner or investor, however regional cities do not enjoy the same capital growth as the metropolitan property markets, so often a smart update rather than a full renovation can assist owners to enjoy some uplift to take the next property step or secure a better tenancy.</p>
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<p><span>"On inspection, we often hear the lamentation that home improvement takes money and time and striking that balance can be challenging.</span></p>
<p><span>"Hopefully over the past couple of months property owners have had the time and been able to save some money by taking on projects themselves or calling in the professionals," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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Smart update or full renovation in Albury-Wodonga? HTW residential 

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<p>Given that Inner North suburbs of Melbourne tend to comprise older dwellings, at least relative to the outer north, it is within these suburbs – including Coburg, Reservoir and out to Greensborough and Bundoora that most likely to see homes undergoing renovations, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </p>
<p>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.</p>
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<p><span>Older homes, often held in families for many years and kept in their original state will often undergo impressive modifications and upgrades once sold to owner occupiers looking to make their homes larger, modern, comfortable and better suited to </span>modern life. </p>
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<p><span>The report suggests renovators can often expect to see healthy capital growth as a result of these renovations bringing these properties up to meet the expectations of potential purchasers for these areas.</span></p>
<p><span>There are a number of areas in the Inner North where ‘pop up’ rear extensions to existing heritage facades are becoming more commonplace as a means of meeting the requirements of heritage protections. </span></p>
<p><span>"We have seen numerous examples of these, where older homes with small and enclosed living areas have been opened up, increasing natural light and utilizing spaces in a more functional way," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>"In recent months as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, we have noted that the occurrence of larger renovations and extensions has reduced, bucking the trend of the past several years where renovations have been commonplace, particularly as a result of gentrification in many areas and </span>a large number of homes constructed in the 1980’s becoming more obvious candidates for modernisation," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p>Prime examples of this can be seen in Reservoir and Montmorency where homes with renovation potential can be purchased for between $700,000 and $850,000 and $800,000 to$900,000 respectively, the reported noted. </p>
<p>"Once fully renovated, we are seeing homes in Reservoir achieve $1.1 million to $1.3 million and Montmorency, $1.1 million to $1.4 million," the valuation firm said. </p>
<p>A three bedroom Clinker Brick Veneer house in Reservoir has recently been sold for $1.07 million.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-reservoir-133019962" target="_blank">31 Rubicon Street </a>home (pictured below) has been renovated and extended. </p>
<p>It comes with open plan living, light-filled family room and decked entertainment area. </p>
<p>It was last sold in 2007 for $476,000. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/reservoir%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>A current listing is an updated four bedroom house in Montmorency priced at $1.05 million to $1.15 million.</p>
<p>The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-montmorency-133636602" target="_blank"> 3 Reichelt Avenue</a> home (pictured below) comprises two living zones, two updated bathrooms and study. </p>
<p>It's situated within walking distance to schools, shops and cafes. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/montmorency.jpg" alt=""></p>
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<p><span>Investors in the outer north suburbs, looking to attract tenants or sell are more likely to carry out more modest or cosmetic renovations for ‘easy wins’, partly as a result of homes in these areas being much younger, with layouts not differing too much from new homes being constructed today.</span></p>
<p><span>The report notes minor renovations in these areas will tend to be limited to painting, replacing floor coverings, and perhaps a new kitchen, bathroom or deck.</span></p>
<p><span>"Moving forward, we expect that the prevalence of major renovations will continue to remain in parity with the economy and if this continues to deteriorate, then it is reasonable to expect that renovators will become less willing to spend big," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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North Melbourne major renovations in decline: HTW residential 

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<p><span>The idea of home improvement has been brought to light as of late with the extra time many of the population have had on their hands, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. </span></p>
<p><span>The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect. </span></p>
<p><span>"Housing within many of the older suburbs in Geelong are at a perfect stage where a renovation or extension is exactly what is needed to revitalise one’s home and bring it back up to scratch with what’s currently trending and sought after in the current property market," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
<p><span>Renovations are widespread across suburbs such as Newtown, Highton, Belmont and Geelong West. </span></p>
<p><span>With many of homes in Geelong West having heritage overlays enforced the only option for many homeowners or buyers is to fully upgrade and refurbish internally with the front having </span>to be left unscathed.</p>
<p>A three bedroom Belmont house which has been renovated throughout has recently been sold for $530,100.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-belmont-133586766" target="_blank">1/35 Digby Avenue</a> home (pictured below) comes with open plan kitchen, dining and lounge area, updated bathroom and decked alfresco area. </p>
<p>It was last sold in 2016 for $380,000.</p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/belmont%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>A current listing is a two bedroom home in Geelong West priced at $499,000 to $535,000.</p>
<p>The renovated home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-geelong+west-133276326" target="_blank">202 Shannon Avenue</a> (pictured below) comes with open plan kitchen, living and dining, verandah, and enclosed carport. </p>
<p>It is situated closed to shops, schools and Geelong CBD. </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/15/geelong%20west.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Extending and renovating these heritage listed homes has resulted in some masterpieces which combine timeless and classic architecture with modern materials and an open plan living space which is so prominent in housing in this current day and age.</p>
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<p><span>The report notes renovations obviously vary in price due to the nature of the works being conducted and not always is the amount spent on the renovation translated over to the overall new value of the property.</span></p>
<p><span> In some cases when done right it can significantly increase the value of a home far greater than the amount spent on the renovation which can be seen by some record breaking renovated houses that have sold in the likes of Geelong West and Newtown over the past few years.</span></p>
<p><span>"Renovations are less popular in developing areas such as the ever expanding Armstrong Creek and Mount Duneed regions. This is ultimately due to the fact that no renovation or extension is required on these newly constructed homes still in excellent condition," the valuation firm said. </span></p>
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