Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

<html><body>
The property market is constantly evolving and just like everything in this world, it has its fair share of ups and downs.
Given that only 10% of properties in Melbourne can be viewed as good investments, it can be difficult to choose one that will generate positive returns for you in the future.
However, the whole process doesn’t have to be hard work or stressful.  If you do your homework, purchase within your budget and get some handy advice along the way, you’ll be in a strong position to secure a financially rewarding property that will set you on the path to greater wealth.
Check out the following guidelines to help make buying your next ‘investment grade’ property a little easier.
1. Property size
It’s important to narrow down what you’re looking for and buy according to your budget. It’s fair to say, that a bigger property will always be a more solid and lucrative investment especially in terms of capital growth and financial returns.
Not only will it appeal to a larger demographic of buyers, it’ll be easier to sell because the demand for bigger homes is stronger.
The same rule applies with apartments. If you’re thinking of buying a small one bedroom or studio apartment, proceed with caution when applying for finance.
It’s not uncommon for banks to have lending restrictions in place for properties less than forty or fifty square metres in size. This is because smaller properties attract lower capital growth over the long term and are usually considered high-risk lending for most financial institutions.
2. Street appeal
There’s always a certain x-factor about homes located in quiet, residential and tree-lined streets. If the property has easy access to public transport, shops, cafes and schools, you’ll be onto a winner. Lifestyle locations will generally be more sought after compared to busier, inner CBD suburbs.  This is an important factor to think about when buying your next investment.
To maximise your earning potential, avoid properties located on busy main roads and homes that are too close to unattractive amenities such as factories and train lines.
3. Added features/amenities
Does your property tick all boxes when it comes to practicality, visual appeal and lifestyle requirements? If not, then it may fall short when it comes time to sell later down the track.
Picking a home with attractive amenities is the best way to help increase the value of your property.  The main features to look out for include:
<ul>
<li>A central bathroom with a bathtub which is popular with females and young children. </li>
<li>A home with private laundry facilities as opposed to a shared/communal area. </li>
<li>A practical floorplan that complements easier living. For example, having a separate entrance hallway rather than walking straight into a living area and avoiding homes that have bedrooms coming off the living area. </li>
<li>The flexibility to knock down walls and create open plan living areas.  For example, developing extra space such as a study nook area or an extra bedroom if necessary. </li>
<li>Additional built in features such as heating and cooling systems, dishwashers, gas cooking and gas hot water systems.</li>
</ul>
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<ul></ul>
4. Potential to add value
The aesthetic appearance of your property will often determine if you get top dollar for your property or something far less than you expected.
The ability to add true worth and value is one of the up-sides of owning a property, because you can never lose. In some cases, small improvements can pay huge dividends in years to come.
To stay one step ahead of the rest, when selecting the right investment, it’s important to buy one that has a certain “WOW” factor about it.  Look for unique features that will set it apart from the thousands of properties out there. Think maybe older style apartments with a fireplace, ornate interiors and period style homes.
Cosmetic renovations such as rendering, painting, new fencing, landscaping and adding security systems can make a huge difference in a short period of time. It’s an easy (but often an overlooked way) to add instant value to your property.
Not only will you increase equity this way but you can also expect better future rental returns and cash flow.
5. Focus on land value but not just any piece of land
<ol></ol>
Many investors make the mistake of buying larger properties on big pieces of land (usually on the outskirts of town) because of the incorrect belief that land appreciates and buildings depreciate.  To some degree this is true, however, it doesn’t apply to all properties.
It’s not the land that’s important but more the “land value.”  There’s no point buying a property in the country where buyer demand is low and scarcity isn’t an issue.
A smarter option would be to purchase something like an inner city apartment, located in a small boutique block of ten.  The land value with this type of investment is greater due to higher land scarcity and strong buyer demand.
Caution: Avoid high-rise apartments that have minimal land value component and are usually over saturated with other apartments. This tends to reduce land value significantly.
6. Buy wholesale not retail
It’s not hard to figure out that good real estate will always make you money. Because good quality properties are hard to come by, you should always try and hold on to them for as long as you can.
Incorporating property as part of your long-term wealth strategy is a very clever way to boost your income earnings.
To create instant equity, consider buying wholesale rather than retail.  An example of this is buying a property under $500,000 where 80% of people can afford versus buying a property over the 1 million dollar mark, where only 5% of people can afford to buy.
Advantage Property Consulting has purchased more than 75 blocks of apartments on behalf of syndicates and investors.  In this niche area of the market, we are competing with fewer buyers (usually in the multi-million dollar range) resulting in better buying power for our committed investors.
In summary, buying the right ‘investment grade’ quality property is all about following a blueprint that all successful investors follow.
Put simply, some properties generate better financial returns than others.  To reduce your chances of buying a mediocre investment that might be problematic for you later down the track, it pays to be educated about the potential risks/disadvantages involved.
If you follow our proven ‘success strategies’, you can rest assured that you’ll be one step closer to achieving your wealth creation goals.
Frank Valentic is managing director of award-winning buyers' agency <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.advantageproperty.com.au/">Advantage Property Consulting.</a>
 
 
 
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Six rules to buy financially rewarding residential property: Frank Valentic

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Sydney-based hoteliers Peter and Jan McGrath have listed their two Fiji tourist resorts Sonaisali and Tadrai with expectations of between $17 and $22.7 million ($30-$40m Fijian dollars) for both.
The McGraths have owned Sonaisali for 20 years and developed Tadrai 18 months ago.
Sonaisali is a 50.5 hectare private island acquired by the McGraths in the early 1990s after it was sold as a mortgagee in possession by ANZ Bank.
It had been owned by a Melbourne-based syndicate of investors called Naisali Investments Pty Ltd, with the major shareholders being famed shark expert Ian Taylor, who advised Steven Spielberg on the making of 'Jaws' and his wife Valerie.
At the time it was leased to the syndicate on a 99-year lease, which started in 1989, from Fiji’s Native Land Trust Board with rent starting from $10,000 a year for the first five years, switching to 3% of gross receipts from July 1994.
Sonaisali is on Naisali Island, 300 metres off Fiji’s main island of Viti Levu and 20 minutes’ drive from Nadi International Airport.
It features 123 rooms and bures (Fijian for wood-and-straw huts) with ocean views as well as a poolside restaurant, conferencing and retail facilities. It also has its own dive business, a small marina and a passenger ferry providing 24/7 access to the mainland.
“Having developed and operated the resort for two decades, the owners have decided the time is right to sell the property and pass it on to a new owner who can take advantage of the unprecedented trading conditions at play in Fiji,” said CBRE Hotels regional hotels director Robb Cross, who is marketing both resorts alongside Dean Humphries, national director of hotels at Colliers International.
Tadrai Island, completed in 2011, is a five-star resort on a 27.6 hectare parcel of coastal land with three beaches, and planning permission granted for a second resort of up to 331 rooms on the site - the last remaining parcel of land in the Mamanucas that is available for future development.
It is 15 minutes by air from Nadi International Airport or 30 minutes by water taxi from Denarau Marina.
It is an all-inclusive, adults-only retreat with just five luxury beachfront villas, a restaurant, infinity pool and health spa. Each 100 square metre villa has its own private plunge pool.
Room rates are $3,000 per night.
The two resorts are being marketed for sale by CBRE Hotels, Colliers International Hotels, and The Professionals West Realty (Fiji) through an international expressions of interest campaign closing on August 1 2013.
The Resorts are for sale in-one-line or individually.
“Both properties are available with vacant possession, giving buyers the opportunity to partner with regional or international operators under an established brand,” says Humphries.
Both resorts are located on large tracts of long term leasehold land (the most common form of land tenure in Fiji) and come with significant facilities, infrastructure and expansion/development opportunities.
Interest is expected to come from investors and hotel and resort developers.
There listing comes as visitor arrivals in Fiji have trended upwards since 2010.
“Despite a challenging global economic backdrop in recent years, visitor numbers to Fiji increased by 25% from 2009 to 2011, and are expected to reach 750,000 in 2013,” says Humphries quoting Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) figures.
Particularly strong growth has come from Australia, which remains Fiji’s key source of tourists, accounting for half of all visitors, he says.
“With this growth in visitor numbers, hotels and resorts are enjoying excellent trading conditions. Fiji has been the star performer in the wider Asia Pacific region over the past three years, recording exceptional growth in occupancy and room rates.”
"Hotels in Fiji have recorded an exponential increase in RevPAR (revenue per available room) since 2009," says Humphries.
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Sydney hoteliers list luxury Fijian island resorts with combined $22.7 million price tag

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Here are several common misconceptions I frequently hear when people are looking to embark upon commercial property investing.
1. Securing commercial properties using the internet is easy.
There are some people starting out in who feel they don't need any professional help with this. But finding a suitable property is only half the task.
The other half involves properly assessing the property — both physically and financially. Then you have to package up the deal that's best for you.
And this is where having a top consulting team (for the property, legal, finance &amp; construction aspects) is worth its weight in gold.
2. Residential investors will find it a difficult transition.
Fundamentally, this stems from insufficient knowledge and, therefore, proper understanding. And again, that's where your consulting team also comes in.
Some of my most successful clients have been those with little or no prior involvement with commercial property. However, they were clear thinkers; and could quickly absorb and assess the advice being given to them.
3. You need loads of cash.
Again, this is simply not true.
Sure, many commercial properties may sell for millions of dollars. However, you can also buy well-leased strata office suites for between $350,000 and $500,000, which is more or less the same price you would be paying for an apartment.
And yet, your net return from one of these office suites is around 7.25% per annum, compared with a 3.5% net return for apartments. So, I'll leave you to do the maths!
4. Commercial tenants are difficult to deal with.
Because commercial tenants are running a business from your property, they have a vested interest to keep it looking presentable.
Besides, their lease will require them to undertake (and pay for) any required maintenance. And when the time comes for them to leave, there is also a clause requiring them to "make good" beforehand.
5. It's harder and more expensive to manage commercial property.
If you choose to manage the property yourself, then you may well run into some costly problems. But that's the very reason why you would engage a competent managing agent.
And unlike residential property (with management fees of 7%), your fees for commercial property will generally range from 3% to 5% of monies collected — depending upon the size of the property involved.
Bottom line: Hopefully, this brief overview has helped dispel some of the common myths surrounding commercial property.
There is nothing overly complicated about commercial property — you simply need to treat it like any other business deal, and do a little homework first. And when you are receiving net yields of 7%+ per annum … you can quickly appreciate why the rewards are worthwhile.
Chris Lang is an advisor to commercial property investors, sell-out author and regular speaker on how to invest in commercial property. You can visit his website <a href="https://property-edge.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Property Edge Australia</a> to help you get the most out of your commercial property investing.
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Five misconceptions about investing in commercial property: Chris Lang

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A modernist house designed by architect Peter Hirst at Pymble on Sydney's upper north shore was listed with a $3.25 million asking price after failing to sell at its recent auction.
And now its price indicator has now been reduced to $2.95 million plus.
In the lead up to its May auction it had been marketed with $3 million plus hopes through Tim Fraser of LJ Hooker Wahroonga-Pymble.
<a href="https://wahroonga-pymble.ljhooker.com.au/81KGZ6" target="_blank">The Peter Hirst-designed house was built in 1969 for the Blunt family</a>.
It is the home of George Pethard, owner of steel-manufacturing business Nevco Engineering, and his wife, Karen, who bought the property for $2.8 million in 2007 from the Heath family.
Set a 2384-square-metre block with a heated swimming pool, level lawns and established gardens, the Pymble Avenue property was renovated in 2006.
The renovation was undertaken by the lawyer Derek Heath and his wife, Elizabeth, by Lesiuk Architects. 
The five bedroom, two bathroom house comes with a Carrara marble kitchen, plus large formal and informal living areas that flow onto the garden.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/trophyhomesstrapone.jpg" alt="trophyhomesstrapone" width="470" height="57">
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Peter Hirst-designed 1969 Pymble trophy home remains for sale

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The NSW budget papers gave 10 key reasons for the sense of an underlying strenthening in the NSW  housing sector.
They were:
1) interest rates at historically low levels;
2) consumer confidence has increased;
3) housing finance approvals are trending up;
4) building approvals are increasing;
5) vacancy rates are low and rents are rising strongly;
6) housing prices have begun to increase;
7) housing affordability improved steadily in 2012-13;
8) rising investor demand;
9) high auction clearance rates;
10) and underlying demand remains strong driven by demographic trends, including higher population growth and solid household income growth.
Source: NSW State Treasury budget papers.
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The NSW Treasury's 10 reasons why the property market is on the mend

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The number of residential property rental vacancies increased again during the month of May, rising by 0.1 percentage points to 2.1% and coming to a total of 59,670 nationwide, the latest SQM Research figures show.
It was the fourth straight month that the vacancy rate has eased, according to SQM Research calculations.
The majority of capital cities either experienced modest rises, or remained the same during May, with Darwin being the only city to experience a decline – falling from 1.1% to 1.0% month on month.
Melbourne has the highest vacancy rate - 2.7% - of all the major capital cities, but was unchanged over May with 11,806 vacancies. 
Perth has the tightest vacancy rate of the major capital cities, though it eased slightly from 1.2% to 1.3%.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/sqmjune19one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/sqmjune19onethumb.gif"></a>
Given that a vacancy rate of 3% indicates a balanced market between landlords and renters, Perth remains in a severe rental crisis.
Looking nationally, SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said the May result "reflects a rental market that is continuing to loosen, albeit gradually".
"However, SQM Research stands by our original prediction that until there is a mass exodus of renters prompted by absorption of stock from the sales side of the property market, we will not see massive increases in vacancy rates," he says.
Christopher says the rental market is starting to provide "some choices for tenants".
"Vacancies have increased four straight months now. This is also showing up on our weekly rentals index where cities such as Canberra and Perth have recorded falling rents in recent months," he says.
Other key findings of the May report:
<ul>
<li>Darwin has recorded the tightest vacancy rate of the capital cities, revealing a vacancy rate of 1.0% and a total of 237 vacancies.</li>
<li>Canberra has recorded the highest yearly increase in vacancies. Climbing 0.8% to 1.5% since the corresponding period of the previous year (May 2012) and coming to a total of 798 vacancies.</li>
<li>Hobart was the only capital city to record a yearly decrease in vacancies, falling by 0.1% to 2.7% since the corresponding period of the previous year (May 2012) and coming to a total of 739.</li>
<li>Hobart has however, recorded the highest monthly increase in vacancies, rising by 0.2% during May 2013.</li>
<li>Darwin was the only capital city to record a monthly decrease, falling by 0.1% to 1.0% during May 2013.</li>
</ul>
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National residential vacancy rate lifts to 2.1% in May: SQM

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House and unit prices have remained “relatively flat over recent months” though "still higher than the previous year" the minutes of the June 4 RBA board monetary policy meeting reveal.
However, signs of a pick-up in household appetite for borrowing and a “range of housing market indicators” suggested to the RBA the “housing market generally appeared to be improving” following previous cash rate cuts.
At the June 4 meeting the RBA left the cash rate unchanged, but the minutes reveal it discussed the possibility of further rate cuts noting that the “inflation outlook as currently assessed might provide some scope for further easing, should that be required to support demand”.
Overall with respect to the housing market, the June minutes were similarly upbeat as they were in May with members observing “that the effects of low interest rates had been evident in a range of housing market indicators”.
“Building approvals for both higher-density and detached dwellings had increased over recent months.
“The Bank's liaison contacts were generally becoming more positive about the outlook for dwelling investment.
“Also, loan approvals had grown more strongly in recent months, including for new housing, and auction clearance rates were well above average in Sydney and had picked up to be a bit above average in Melbourne.
“While measures of dwelling prices had been relatively flat over recent months, they were still higher than the previous year,” say the RBA minutes.
The RBA board also notes that following the decision in May to reduce the cash rate target by 25 basis points, “most lenders in Australia had subsequently lowered their standard variable housing rates in line with the reduction in the cash rate”.
“This resulted in lending rates for most households and businesses reaching or approaching historic lows.
“There were also signs that the appetite for borrowing in the household sector was picking up, and the housing market generally appeared to be improving, as the effects of the most recent and earlier reductions in the cash rate worked their way through the economy,” says the RBA.
In the minutes accompanying the May 7 decision to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to a 53-year-low of 2.75% the RBA noted that “conditions in the housing market remained generally positive” with dwelling prices “around 4% above their trough in mid-2012”, and that auction clearance rates had increased.
It also noted an improvement in the mortgage market and that the pick-up in demand for new housing was improving “with enquiries from prospective purchasers and visits to display homes increasing”.
“New dwelling investment had increased since the middle of the previous year, with members observing that approvals for higher-density dwellings had increased, while approvals for detached dwellings had been flat over this period,” said the RBA in May.
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Dwelling prices still “relatively flat” but housing market "appeared to be improving": RBA minutes

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The futures markets continue to price in another interest rate cut to 2.50%, but after the promising labour force and unemployment data, it doesn't look to be coming for a month or three yet.
We've also had several consecutive months of steadily increasing housing finance data, which suggests that the notion of falling dwelling prices was flawed, as a fair number of us had intimated all along.
Back on June 4, the RBA left the official cash rate in June unchanged at 2.75%
The next RBA board meeting and official cash rate announcement will be on July 2 and 30-day Interbank Cash Rate Futures July 2013 contracts are trading a shade above 97.3, which indicates only about a one-in-four expectation of an interest rate decrease to 2.50% at the next RBA board meeting.
Given that the next round of CPI (inflation) data, isn't due until July 24, I'd have to agree that August 6 looks to be a significantly more likely candidate for a rate cut than July does.
And by then, of course, we'll all have a clearer picture on retail activity and more employment stats to digest.
Potential curve balls are on the horizon - a bubble in China? There are some concerning news stories doing the rounds...
<img alt="wargentjune18one" height="303" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/wargentjune18one.jpg">
Source: ASX
Pete Wargent holds a range of finance and property qualifications and is the author of <a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Get a Financial Grip – a simple plan for financial fr</a><a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/" rel="nofollow">eedom.</a> 
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Strong labour force data should delay RBA rate cut: Pete Wargent

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If you’ve been strategic and capitalised on the booming mining industry and the myriad of opportunities coming from the Asian Century, you might have bought an investment property in a town or mining-related region over the past few years.
If you have been reading the news lately, you might now be getting jittery and questioning the cleverness of that move. The media is reporting declining commodity prices and job losses.
The prices of coal and iron ore (Australia’s two biggest export commodities) are down on their highs of late 2012 and there have indeed been layoffs. But is this cause for panic over the value of your investment property? Or is the better strategy a little education and a lot of savvy staying power?
The first part of the answer lies in whether or not your property is in a town that has more going for it than a couple of mines.
Clever investors look for locations with a solid economy and strong employment opportunities stemming from diverse industries and growth drivers. Towns whose fortunes rise and fall solely on the back of a few mining businesses can quickly become ghost towns if opportunities stall or projects fail.
Because, regardless of what else mining means to Australia’s economy, it is a boom or bust proposition and falling prices might mean it’s time for you to pull up stumps.
If the economy of the market in which your property is located has more strings to its bow than a few mines, I’d say a little education and some savvy staying power would be a wise choice.
Let’s start with education. We all know coal is big business. Despite pushes towards renewable energy, coal remains the world’s main fuel source. Coal is the world’s largest source of electricity (43 per cent).
Australia is the world’s fourth largest coal exporter (behind China, USA and India). Domestically we use coal to generate about three-quarters of Australia’s electricity.
Iron ore (used to make steel) is actually even bigger business than coal: it’s Australia’s biggest export commodity and we have the world’s second largest iron ore deposits. The greater majority of these are in Western Australia.
Both coal and iron ore are commodities, which means they’re useful, valuable and can be bought and sold. Just like money or gold, say.
But commodities are, by nature, volatile and their price fluctuates for a wide range of reasons. What we’re seeing now with coal and iron ore are some lower price points than we had six to nine months ago although still sitting above average for the past decade.
The price of iron ore has dropped from its late-2012 high, but even at today’s prices, it’s considerably higher than it was in about October last year.
That said, declining coal and iron ore prices plus a high Aussie dollar, rising wage costs, and the costs to miners of government red tape can put a brake on both mining operations and mining construction which can inevitably lead to job losses.
These cuts to workforces can then have a flow-on effect to rental returns because fewer miners and tradies need fewer houses to accommodate them. But economies are cyclical, good times follow bad times and circumstances change.
Job losses in the mining sector often create paranoia among some property investors, but it’s important to remember that job losses aren’t restricted to the mining industry. There are always market conditions at play in any industry.
State and federal governments have shed thousands of public sector jobs in capital cities throughout the country over the past few years, and major companies like Ford, Holden and Boeing (manufacturing) and various major retail chains have also shed staff.
So the lessons here are these: coal and iron ore are valuable commodities, their market price goes up and down depending on market forces, they won’t stop being valuable and they won’t disappear any time soon. Down times do bring job losses but good times bring growth.
There might well be short-term market volatility but the megatrends aren’t stopping. The Asian middle class is still getting bigger and richer and consuming more of what Australia has in abundance. The Asian Century has really only just begun.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Employing some savvy staying power with your investment property would clearly be the smart strategy then. If you’ve got higher vacancy rates in your location, determine the reasons for the downturn. If it’s caused by some of this commodity market volatility, but other industries and projects are going strong, be proactive:
·     Engage more with your property manager.
·     Find out your tenant’s intentions about six weeks before their lease is due to expire.
·     Be guided by your property manager about the likely rent your property is going to generate in the current market.
·     Accept less rent if necessary (because ninety per cent of something is always better than 100 per cent of nothing!).
·     Make sure your property manager is actively advertising for a new tenant the minute your current tenant notifies of their intention to leave.
·     Stay positive and stay pleasant with your property manager.
Above all, remember property is a long-term asset class. Like shares, you need to ride the waves with the distant shore in sight. In my opinion, falling commodity prices are not cause for panic if you’ve researched your investment location and are managing your asset to suit market conditions.
Over the past few years, my company, Propertyology has been actively investing in a few major regional towns that have benefitted from mining industry projects, a couple of smaller mining communities, and a couple of capital city locations.
Interestingly, even with declining commodity prices and the scaling back of some projects, rental returns still remain higher in our regional and mining-related communities than in the capital cities. The locations in which we’ve successfully helped investors to purchase property have multiple approved projects in their pipeline.
In some cases, falling commodity prices and rising costs have resulted in project commencements being delayed, certainly; but the resources have not evaporated and projects are still very likely to proceed once the economic cycle settles down.
Other industries supporting these communities provide stability and sustainability for their economy. It’s not overly important whether the best couple of years are now or in a few years time; the property market outlook remains just as promising.
So if you’re a property investor who’s been wondering whether you’ve made the right choice with mining, remember this: even a fire whose coals aren’t burning red hot still has plenty of heat!
Simon Pressley is Managing Director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/">Propertyology</a>, a full-time property market analyst, accredited property investment adviser, and the 2012 and 2013 REIA / REIQ Buyer’s Agent of the Year.
 
 
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What happens to property markets when commodity prices lose their red hot glow? Simon Pressley

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Australia’s typical tenant is most likely to be female, aged between 35-49, earning an income in excess of $50,000 and looking for properties more than $300 per week, according to the results of a survey carried out on realestate.com.au earlier this year.
80% of surveyed tenants said they looked after their rental property the same way they would their own home, and 92% said they always pay their rent on time.
Despite it being a tenants’ market in the majority of states, respondents from high-income households ($100k+) were the most likely to stay at home for ‘lifestyle factors’ with 72% of those in the market to rent being female. Male tenants (15%) were significantly more likely to cite the ability to invest money elsewhere as an advantage to renting, compared with females at 8%. Metro tenants (24%) were significantly more likely to cite the ability to rent in a better area than they could afford to buy in as an advantage of renting. This was compared with 17% of regional tenants. Tenants are looking to stand out in the crowd
Rental markets are strong (in most states) with a number of parties generally competing for rental properties. 59% of those who attended open for inspections indicated that more than five other people typically attended. Tenants take advantage of winter in rental property search with 52% of tenants believing that winter is the best time to search for property due to fewer tenants looking for properties. Around a fifth of people in the rental market made contact with an agent for relationship building purposes. One in five (19%) respondents that had submitted an application had offered more rent to try to secure the property, with most (12%) offering $10 to $20 more a week. Those who rent together, stay together
One in seven current tenants entered into a relationship at some time, with more than half still together.
Segment profiles
Those in the market to rent were significantly more likely to be:
<ul>
<li>Female (at 72%)</li>
<li>Aged less than 25 years (at 17%)</li>
<li>Living in lower to middle income households (&lt;$100,000), with a similar proportion of visitors earning less than $50,000 as to those earning between $50,000 to $100,000 (at 36% and 35% respectively)</li>
</ul>
Those in the market to share were significantly more likely to be:
<ul>
<li>Aged less than 25 years (at 34%)</li>
<li>Living in lower income households (&lt; $50,000 at 38%)</li>
<li>Studying full time (at 26%)</li>
<li>Single and living with other (at 52%)</li>
</ul>
Price range sought be state
The price ranges sought remained relatively stable in each state, with the exception of Tasmania (however the sample size for this state was small). The most expensive markets remained NSW and WA, with the $400+ price range for WA significantly increasing this wave (now at 55%, up +12%). The following stats highlight what the majority of respondents were paying in each state, including 2012 and 2013 comparisons: NSW Jan 12 – 41% were paying $400+ per week Jan 13 – 47% were paying $400+ per week ACT Jan 12 – 41% were paying $400+ per week Jan 13 – 47% were paying $400+ per week VIC Jan 12 – 33% were paying $200 - $300 per week Jan 13 – 33% were paying $300 - $400 per week QLD Jan 12 – 37% were paying $300 - $400 per week Jan 13 – 38% were paying $300 - $400 per week WA Jan 12 – 43% were paying $400+ per week Jan 13 – 55% were paying $400+ per week SA Jan 12 – 38% were paying $200 - $300 per week Jan 13 – 41% were paying $200 - $300 per week NT Jan 12 – 38% were paying $200 - $300 per week Jan 13 – 41% were paying $200 - $300 per week TAS Jan 12 – 37% were paying $200 - $300 per week Jan 13 – 44% were paying $200 - $300 per week
<ul></ul>
Survey approach: The survey was conducted between 21st Jan 2013 and 3rd Feb 2013. Visitors were asked to participate via a within-window invite randomly launched from pages under the ‘Rent’ tab on realestate.com.au. 2,921 visitors completed the survey, with 2,450 visitors qualifying for the full survey i.e. were seeking to rent, share or lease out a property.
Sabina Read is a contributor to realestate.com.au and a psychologist with broad experience in counselling, facilitating and consulting with individuals, couples, families, groups, and organisations addressing life transitions, work issues, couple challenges, parenting, as well as anxiety and depression across the lifespan. She is currently a regular psychological and social commentator on national and local TV, radio, the web and magazines. Visit her online at www.sabinareadpsychology.com.au and on Twitter at @ReadSabina
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