<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]

Joel Robinson

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

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111820 project_image_fid=344699]

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374084]

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4553]

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul>
	<li>Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li>10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li>An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li>Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li>No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li>Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li>Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul>
	<li>Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li>Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li>Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li>Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

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

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In a market where we are seeing a rising number of property listings, it is more important than ever to ensure that when your home hits the open home circuit, it’s playing the part.
Unfortunately the old ‘throw some cookies in the oven’ trick just doesn’t cut the mustard anymore. In fact, the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked treats is so yesterday. The new must-do property preparation, which surfaced in the United States in the '80s, has well and truly hit Australian shores – property staging.
Essentially, property staging allows sellers to create the ideal home experience for buyers. Experts say that although a buyer may only include certain items on their dream home checklist, they are also subconsciously affected by the not-so-obvious surroundings – which may in turn affect their purchasing decisions. Property staging professionals are trained to incorporate those surroundings into your home in order to achieve those subliminal effects.
A professional stager will assess the property’s current décor, consider the targeted buyer audience and showcase the space accordingly. It’s not just a matter of smart furniture and replica artwork, either. Staging allows the home’s most unique architectural features to really shine and maximises the available space to capitalise on a buyer’s interest.
According to Queensland property staging company Styled By Me, a potential buyer is 63% more likely to buy a property that is presented as a ‘ready to live in’ look. And REIQ-accredited agents have reported that a staged home can decrease time on market and increase potential profit.
This service can also allow a property a renewed lifespan on the market. If a home has been for sale for a significant period, an internal transformation can attract a wider group of buyers and refresh the listing’s presence. Additionally, when a home is completely vacant it’s difficult to ascertain the purpose of particular spaces. When a property is staged, the buyer has a clearer understanding and perspective of each space. And naturally your investment in staging will reflect in the images used in your property’s marketing campaign.
It is even rumoured that prestige residential rentals and commercial and retail leases are getting on the property staging train to ensure they snag the right type of tenant for their property.
So if you’re the type that likes to keep up with the real estate Joneses, it’s time to throw out the cookies and make sure your property is playing the part.
Amanda Haack is events manager journal deputy editor at the <a href="https://www.reiq.com/" target="_blank">Real Estate Institute of Queensland</a>. This article originally appeared on the<a href="https://reiqblog.com/" target="_blank"> REIQ blog.</a>
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Forget the freshly baked treats: How professional styling can increase your home's selling price

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Queensland is the state requiring vendors to slash asking prices most to secure a sale, according to a RP Data study.
The state accounted for 19 of the top 20 suburbs where vendors gave the greatest reductions on their initial asking price.
Stapylton, situated some 45 kilometres south of Brisbane, topped the list, with an average required vendor discount of 32%.
Next was Eli Waters, near Hervey Bay, as a close second with 31.5%.
The Queensland tourist town Airlie Beach came third with an average discount of 29.4%.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/qlddiscount.jpg" width="470" height="747" alt="qlddiscount">
The only suburb not in Queensland in the top 20 was Wannanup in Western Australia. 
<a href="/news">STAPYLTON </a>QLD -32%
<a href="/news">ELI WATERS</a> QLD -31.5%
<a href="/news">AIRLIE BEACH</a> QLD -29.4%
<a href="/news">RUSSELL ISLAND</a> QLD -28.1%
<a href="/news">COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND</a> QLD -27.4%
<a href="/news">WOWAN</a> QLD -27.3%
<a href="/news">BLACKBUTT </a>QLD -27.3%
<a href="/news">PORT DOUGLAS</a> QLD -26.4%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">POINT LOOKOUT</a> QLD -26%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">CLIFTON BEACH</a> QLD -25.9%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">BAUPLE </a>QLD -25.1%
<a target="_parent" href="/news">NEWELL </a>QLD -24.6%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">MERMAID BEACH</a> QLD -24.6%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">BILINGA </a>QLD -24.6%
<a href="/news">WANNANUP </a>WA -24.6%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">INNISFAIL</a> QLD -24.4%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">DINGO BEACH</a> QLD -24.4%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">WONGAWALLAN </a>QLD -24.1%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">COOKTOWN </a>QLD -24%
<a target="_blank" href="/news">KARRAGARRA ISLAND</a> QLD 24%
Source: RP Data average vendor discount - 12 months to October 2012
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Queensland accounts for 19 of the nation's 20 highest property vendor discount suburbs

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Today, I look at 10 of the traditionally pre-eminent guises of investment risk but specifically as they apply to Australian property investors.
1 Market risk (or systematic risk)
Market risk may affect all investments in an asset class in a similar manner, such as in the event of a market-wide price crash. As such, market risk that cannot easily be mitigated through diversification. While buying properties in different states might diversify market risk to a partial extent, if the wider property market crashes diversification is unlikely to assuage the systematic risk successfully.
Property investors should additionally invest in other asset classes which tend to move in a non-correlated manner to real estate. Property investors can also focus upon a longer investment time horizon which allows correcting markets greater opportunity to recover.
2 Liquidity risk
Equates to the possibility that an investor may be unable to buy or sell an investment when desired (or in sufficient quantities) due to limited opportunities.
Illiquidity is a salient risk in real estate. It is difficult to sell a property quickly should the need arise, which is not the case for large-cap stocks or government bonds. Liquidity risk in Australian property is best mitigated through investing in landlocked capital city suburbs with eminent demand and constrained supply.
3 Specific risk (or unsystematic/business risk)
Equities investors and fund managers talk much of specific or business risk, being the measure of risk associated with a particular stock or security. Also known as unsystematic risk, this typically refers to the risk associated with a specific issuer of a security. Businesses in the same industry may have similar types of business risk, and issuers of stocks or bonds may become insolvent or lack ability to pay the interest and principal in the case of bonds.
Specific risk in property investment is somewhat different, and rather relates to the risk of acquiring a loss-making property or one which delivers sub-optimal returns giving rise to opportunity cost. Specific risk can be mitigated through diversification, although this can represent a challenging proposition in property as dwellings tend to be expensive.
One frequently invoked strategy of property investors is to acquire different types of property in different states. Careful, detailed due diligence and research of any property purchase also tends to reduce (if not eliminate) specific risk.
4 Interest rate risk
Normally refers to the possibility that a fixed-rate debt instrument will decline in value as a result of a rise in interest rates. Where an investor buys a security offering a fixed rate of return, they introduce an exposure to interest rate risk, examples thereof including bonds and preference shares (preferred stocks).
In Australian investment property, the interest rate risk instead lies in variable rate mortgages as the cost of debt capital can materially increase when the Reserve Bank ratchets up the cash rate. The risk can be mitigated through the use of fixed rate mortgages and prudent cash-flow management.
5 Foreign exchange risk (or currency risk)
Arises from a movement in the price of one currency against another. When the Australian dollar appreciates, the value of foreign investments declines. Conversely, if the dollar weakens the value of foreign investments effectively increase.
Presently the strong Aussie dollar attracts investors to overseas investments, in particular to US real estate. A good strategy? Maybe. Our dollar may depreciate and regional US property markets have corrected. But is there a foreign exchange risk in investing overseas? Absolutely, for exchange rates are inherently unpredictable. Few commentators in 2008 opined that the Aussie dollar could ever be worth 110 US cents, and yet it indeed became so.
Currency risk tends to be greater for shorter term overseas investments, which have insufficient time to revert to a mean valuation in the same manner as longer term equivalent ventures.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
6 Sovereign risk (or social/political/legislative risk)
Sovereign risk is associated with the possibility of unfavourable government action or social upheaval resulting in investment losses. Governments retain the power to amend laws affecting investments, and rulings which result in an adverse investment outcome are representative of legislative risk. One frequently highlighted legislation risk in Australian property investment is the possible phasing out of the negative gearing tax rules.
Investing in developing or unstable countries variously offers opportunities for substantial returns but, reflecting the principles of the risk-return trade-off (of the CAPM model) may bring a heightened associated sovereign risk.
7 Credit risk
Credit risk normally refers to the possibility that a bond issuer becomes unable to service expected interest rate payments or a principal repayment. Typically, the higher the credit risk is, the higher the interest rate on the bond.
In property investment, credit risk often lies in the investor rather than the lender, although there is of course a possibility that lending institutions can become insolvent as was seen in the US as the subprime crisis played out. Property investors should retain a liquid buffer in order to mitigate the risk of mortgage default.
8 Call risk
Also usually refers to bond issues and the possibility that a debt security will be ‘called’ prior to maturity. In bonds, call risk prevails when interest rates fall, as companies redeem bond issues with higher coupons and replace them on the bond market with lower interest rate issues to save cash.
Can call risk impact Australian property investors? Indeed, but conversely when interest rates run higher. Investors with high exposure to adverse interest rate movements may be considered risky by mortgage providers cyclically. Investors in Australian commercial property have periodically been subjected to the real estate equivalent of a margin call, being forced to reduce debt exposure through the redemption of assets.
9 Reinvestment risk
Usually refers to the risk that future coupons from a fixed-interest investment will not be reinvested at the interest rate prevailing when it was initially purchased, a risk that increases in likelihood when interest rates decline. Zero coupon bonds are the only fixed-income instrument to eliminate reinvestment risk due to having no interim coupon payments.
The most straightforward strategy for property investors to avert reinvestment risk is simple: never sell.
10 Inflation risk
Also known as purchasing power risk, the possibility that the value of an asset or income stream will be eroded as inflation diminishes the value of a currency. The risk is the potential for future inflation to cause the purchasing power of cash inflows from an investment to decline.
Inflation risk is best countered through investing in appreciating assets such as real estate, dividend-paying stocks or convertible bonds, each of which has a growth component allowing them to outperform inflation over the long term. The uplifting news for property investors is that favourably-located Australian real estate is well recognised as a tremendously effective inflation hedge over time.
 <img src="/images/stories/2012/12/wargentbook.jpg" style="margin: 5px; float: left;">
Pete Wargent holds a range of finance and property qualifications and is the author of <a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/">Get a Financial Grip – a simple plan for financial freedom.</a>
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The 10 risks to be managed by Aussie property investors 

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In positive news for the construction sector, 2% more homes were built in the past quarter than the previous one.
<a rel="nofollow" href="https://hia.com.au/media/~/media/Files/MediaMicrosite/Media%20Releases/Modest%20Rise%20in%20New%20Home%20Building.ashx">The figures</a> released today by the Housing Industry Association show marked increases in New South Wales and Western Australia, with a smaller rise in Victoria.
In NSW new housing commencements increased by 9.5%, triggered in part by changes to government incentives, which saw NSW first homebuyers receive a $15,000 government grant.
HIA economist Geordan Murray says the overall increase was driven by the rise in NSW.
“I would be hesitant to suggest that this growth would be continued,” Murray says.
Western Australian figures rose by 23.6% for the quarter, but Murray says this was because the state was “getting back to where it should be”.
“In April and May changes in the approvals process in Western Australia caused a bottleneck in new home commencements, causing a hold up in the June quarter,” Murray says.
The Western Australian state government implemented changes in April 2012, which affected everything from the design stage to the occupation of the building.
In the December Quarter Murray says the 5000 new home approvals to date suggest a continuing strong result for the state.
Aside from the large increases in Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria (where there was a rise of 2.9%), the other states recorded drops.
Most notable was Queensland, where new home developments fell by 14.2%.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Housing construction up in NSW, WA and Victoria: HIA

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If you're going to start a new business, you might as well dream big. And launch it in an exotic, beachside location.
That didn't quite happen immediately for entrepreneur Zoe Watson, but her big thinking approach has developed in the two years since she opened her <a target="_blank" href="https://www.blisssanctuaryforwomen.com/about-3/">Bliss Sanctuary for Women</a> in Bali in 2010.
Currently, she's in Hong Kong, where she's based the travel business in an effort to expand it across the globe. With the next stop Spain, her plan is to establish 20 sanctuaries in 12 countries over the next 10 years.
The Balinese sanctuary includes use of villas within Canggu, Bali, and future sanctuaries are set to include similar leisure accommodation.
It's a fairly ambitious mission for a woman with a fear of flying, who originally left the corporate world for Bali in order to rekindle her health and allow her body to recover from a nasty car accident. But it's a mission she believes is possible in a market that's saturated with retreat-style vacations for women, but very few resorts that focus on the "travel experience" instead.
Watson knows this because before dreaming up the idea, she long tried to find such solo-travelling holiday experiences herself, while in desperate need of some time out from the corporate world.
"At the time, I said to my boss, 'I need a month off or you need to get someone to help me'. He said, 'You can't do either or those; you can take next week'," Watson recalls. She took what she could get and travelled to Bali – an option she thought wasn't ideal at the time, but relatively simple, inexpensive and appeared to offer the safe, solo-travelling experience she was after.
It was better than expected: upon returning to Adelaide, she quit her advertising job to take a year-long break living in Bali where she could recover – something she knew could be funded with the compensation money she'd received from the car accident. The enforced rest didn't last a month.
Watson came up with the Bliss Sanctuary business plan within two weeks. Four weeks later she was flying to Bali to source a villa to rent, which she found within three days. The goal was to create a sanctuary for women travelling alone or with a friend who are looking to take a simple, carefree break. Women who wanted to take the "thinking" out of a holiday, and allow somebody else to sort out accommodation, meals, transport and even the day-to-day experiences (the Bali sanctuary offers packages covering cultural experiences, surfing and yoga).
"We've had ladies who get there and say 'I can't decide what to eat – you decide!'" says Watson.
Bali quickly provided a successful test case on how the business could work globally – with sanctuary spaces filling 50% in the first month of operation and up to 90% just a couple of months later. Now in its second year, it has seven local staff and a Canadian hostess, allowing Watson to work on opening new locations. As she extends the business across the world, she plans to work on site for a few months as each new location opens, then hand the space over to a Western hostess under a franchising arrangement.
Not bad for a business idea Watson attributes to simply taking a break. "I'm pretty gung-ho, having worked in media and the rat race in Australia, my whole lifestyle has completely changed now. If it wasn't for the forced rest on my part I don't think things would have played out the way they have," she says.
And unlike other rat race escapees seeking a seachange, Watson never hated her job. In fact, she recently recounted to the Adelaide Advertiser how she's always had fun, sought-after roles – even one in which she drove around a yellow Mustang convertible as a company car. She's now working harder than ever, but believes that having now found her purpose, the health effects of long hours are minimal.
As for the fear of flying, it hasn't quite disappeared but Watson's dealing with it. "I do find that the things we have the most fear of in life are often the things we need to overcome."
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.womensagenda.com.au/" target="_blank">Women's Agenda.</a>
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How an entrepreneur's holiday turned into a women's tourism accommodation business

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Big homes, not necessarily McMansions, are easier to sell than their smaller counterparts as people look to future-proof their investments.
With families having more possessions than ever before, four-bedroom homes allow for a spare room to be used in many ways.
Three-bedroom, one-bathroom homes are becoming rarer and take longer to sell than a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home.
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Tip of the week: Enlightening property investment gems

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Although most of us are back at work already, some lucky readers out there may still be on annual leave. During my short break I was able to catch up on some of my favourite property-themed TV entertainment programs from around the world.
I have ranked my top six favourite programs that I think are the most information-rich programs, starting at number six. By no means is this an exhaustive list; there are more shows out there that I’ve not mentioned, but I feel the ones mentioned below are the most useful and accessible for investors.
Coming from a media background myself, I’m always keeping my eyes and ears open for new media and programs that have a property focus. It is important to note upfront is that the bulk of these shows are produced squarely as entertainment first and education second. That said, I’ve been able to extract value out of all of the programs below and take away some great lessons that have helped me in my investment life.
Number 6 – Hot Property (Australia)
Concept/Synopsis: Actor and famous Australian icon Michael Caton hosts a program focused on the negotiation process between property buyers, sellers and renovators. The episodes feature an auction in every episode, as well as private sales.
Why it is entertaining: This program is a little bit “loose”. The structure tends to change from episode to episode, with some focusing mostly on the stressful auction process (which plays out like a soap opera thanks to some clever editing and the addition of some emotional musical curves), with others focusing on the families of first-time property buyers.
Why I like it: This show is very much ‘entertainment first, facts second’ in its priorities, however it does give great insight into the objectives and motivations of both buyers and sellers, all emotionally invested in the same property. It is also an excellent exposure to the auction process and the unexpected things that can occur. For those who are too time-poor to get first hand auction witnessing experiencing, this show is great.
Areas to be weary of: Being hosted by an actor and not a property expert (the actor was chosen because he is famous for starring in films focused around the emotional importance of property ownership), the show lacks the much-needed stats, numbers and return on investment summaries that other programs usually provide, making it a little bit vague.
Number 5 – The Block (Australia)
Concept/Synopsis: Running for over 10 years in Australia, this is a reality entertainment program focused on four competing couples renovating stripped-down properties, often located in a blue-chip/prestige urban suburb. The contestants then must complete one room renovation per. At the conclusion, all properties are sold at an auction, with the couple with the highest profit declared the winners.
Why it is entertaining: The ‘mad rush till the last minute’ nature of the program really adds heightened emotion, and some excellent editing makes the program very entertaining for this reason. The contestant couples are selected carefully, and most are enjoyable to watch over a season of the program.
Why I like it: From an investment perspective, I actually enjoy the program more for the things it teaches me not to do as opposed for the tools it may teach me to do. The most glaringly obvious mistake most contestants make is when they overcapitalise on their renovations. But then, these renovations are not being made as part of a buy and hold strategy, these high-end renos are designed for ‘wow factor’ to appeal to the top-end owner-occupier would-be purchaser!
Areas to be weary of: In most years of its run, The Block had selected the city/suburb that was in a rising market at the time of planning, meaning that about six months later, when renovations were complete and the apartments were auctioned off for sale, the profit margins made were regarded as “awesome”. The program editing would have you believe that all profits were attributed purely to the efforts of the contestants in renovating them.
Where you can access it: The Block runs almost annually, and is coming up to its 2013 season premiere. It’ll be on during most weekends on the Channel 9 network. Previous seasons have been made available for purchase on DVD from specialty outlets and JB Hi-Fi/department stores. The next series returns to Channel 9 Monday, February 4. 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Number 4 – The Barefoot Investor (Australia)
Concept/Synopsis: This is not a program about property investment specifically. Instead, it is focused around all kinds of investment classes – ranging from property to shares to managed funds to some more obscure investment classes.  Host Scott Pape is a known investment expert and appears in numerous magazines and newspaper columns, along with regular appearances on TV and radio in Australia.
Why it is entertaining: The show’s approach is light and accessible enough, and with a wide variety of asset classes covered, makes for interesting repeat viewing because the content is so different with each episode. Scott’s approach is quite humorous and his youthful nature makes the show entertaining.
Why I like it: As a younger investor myself, I find this program more relatable than some of the others in this list. While it is great to hear from more mature, seasoned, and successful investors on what worked for them, it is great to watch a program that provides a focus to younger investors and ways to help them achieve their goals. When Scott does cover the property asset class in several segments, his advice for younger/aspiring investors is always sound and logical.
Areas to be weary of: The show sometimes travels off-topic, exploring things topics like love, travel, and life hobbies. Scott does skew these back into some kind of investment focus or strategy.
Where you can access it: The Barefoot Investor website offers some viewing of episodes, while others have been uploaded in full to dedicated channels on YouTube. The program airs infrequently also on Channel 10 on free to air television.
Number 3 – Flip Men (USA)
Concept/Synopsis: Business partners Mike Baird and Doug Clark, along with their crew of helpers, simultaneously buy, renovate, and sell – in other words ‘flip’ – multiple properties at any given time, focused predominantly on one market – Salt Lake City, Utah. Results vary from astonishing successes to projects of several months’ duration that result in loss rather than profit.
Why it is entertaining: As they often enter ‘high-risk’ neighbourhoods and buy properties ‘site unseen’ at auction, it is entertaining to watch the boys enter properties that they’ve already bought. There can be anything inside them – sometimes squatters, junkies, and gangs inhabit them, other times they discover drug labs were present, while sometimes they uncover profit-killers such as unforseen plumbing issues, entirely missing kitchens, or bizarre objects left behind by previous tenants.
Why I like it: It is entertaining, sure, but I respect an onscreen property team who allow cameras in to their everyday flipping world, warts and all, and are not afraid to show their audience their failures as well as their successes. I also have an interest in the US property market, so the program is a great educator to highlight just how much risk the US market offers Australian investors.
Areas to be weary of: Like many US reality programs involving auctioning, bidding, or improving something for profit, the 22-minute episodes firmly focus on the glamorous elements and unfortunately rarely present the hard work done, due diligence investigated, and the fact that the two business partners have an entire team/entourage working behind them. This team is what allows the duo to effectively be flipping around 10 properties at any time!
What you can actually learn from it and use in your property investment life: These two are very efficient at what they do, thanks to years of experience and their concentration on just one market (which they know inside out). Australia’s closest celebrity flipper would be Cherie Barber of Renovating for Profit, who runs workshops to teach others how to flip. The biggest two learnings I took away from this show is that 1) It gives you a feel for the multitude of problems you can face by entering a high-risk market with the intention of flipping and on-selling to family buyers; and 2) It gives you a good understanding of how important it is to buy the right 'type' of property in the market you are investing, relevant to the demographic of that area.
Where you can access it: It airs randomly on digital free to air (7Mate channel mostly), and on Foxtel’s A&amp;E channel. Episodes can also be viewed online for free via international streaming sources, or as paid HD downloads via iTunes or Amazon Store.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Number 2– Selling Houses Australia (Australia)
Concept/Synopsis: Ex-real estate sales agent and property expert of over 20 years Andrew Winter makes the move from the UK to the Australian market. In each episode, Andrew, along with his gardener Charlie and interior designer Shaynna, enters a struggling vendor’s property to help get their house sold that has otherwise sat on the market for way too long.
Why it is entertaining: Andrew has a relaxed demeanor but also a charming way of allowing his ‘vendors’ to come to realise the mistakes they’ve been making and how these attribute to a poor sales interest by the market. Vendors in almost every episode will throw out all kinds of humorous excuses for why they have not made the effort to make their property stand out from the crowd. Andrew also interrogates the selling agent responsible for each of these properties in a similarly humorous way.
Why I like it: It seems strange that I should enjoy a program focused purely on selling property, when I’m very much in the acquisition stage of my property investing career. That said, I find the insight into the pre-sales preparation phase very helpful,; both as a buyer of properties and also as a consumer of sales strategies and techniques, for that time later in life when I’ll be looking to offload some portfolio properties. Also, each episode is 45 minutes and concentrates on just one house/sale, allowing a more in-depth insight into each one.
Areas to be weary of: There is a lack of investor perspective to the program. Every house is always an owner-occupied family home never an investor. This means the program focuses on the emotional attachment that owner-occupiers feel to their home, rather than the business and non-emotional approach that an investor would bring. Also, it is purely focused on houses, with no unit sales being covered by the program.
What you can actually learn from it and use in your property investment life: The program is a big help for those looking to sell an investment property. It highlights techniques to make minor cosmetic changes leading up to a sale, along with how to ‘dress’ the premises for inspections, as well as techniques in selecting and appointing a proven and successful sales agent for the sale process. It also exposes us to the emotional connection that owner-occupiers have with their homes, an important element considering we may one day be marketing/selling our investment properties to owner-occupiers and not other investors.
Where you can access it: The show has recorded many seasons, and airs random episodes on Foxtel’s LifeStyle channel nationally. For those without Foxtel, most seasons are available on DVD from specialist outlets along with JB Hi-Fi.
Number 1– Property Ladder With Sarah Beeney (UK)
Concept/Synopsis: UK property expert Sarah Beeney focuses on just one to two properties per hour-long episode and chronicles the journeys of the risk-taker renovators who aim to flip these properties for profit, regardless of the market conditions the UK may be experiencing at the time.
Why it is entertaining: Sarah is very knowledgeable about property investment, renovation and selling knowledge. Watching amateur flippers openly ignore or go against her trusted advice, resulting in dire re-sale or rental rates after completion, can be entertaining and educational. It also uses humour to highlight the challenge that renovation presents, well before even so much as a nail is removed from a property.
Why I like it: Yes, my no. 1 program for Australian investors is from the UK! I like it so much because it really is focused entirely on first-time investors and the chronicling of their cosmetic and structural renovations, all the way through to the return on investment delivered back to them. Each project or guest is actually visited by Sarah several months later, as a recap, providing an extra insight that few other programs carry all the way through. Furthermore, each episode gives so many dedicated bullet-point screens of tips and tricks that I get so much value out of every episode I watch.
Areas to be weary of: This is a UK program so we must be mindful that the drivers and desires of would be tenants and owner-occupiers there can be much different to those of Australian would-be renters and owners, so these needs do not always translate. Also, while the program has been going for 10 years, many of the results recorded and the projects focused on have occurred in a rising market, making the true dollar (or pound, I should say) value of the profits difficult to ascertain.
What you can actually learn from it and use in your property investment life: If you can get your hands on this show, you’ll take away something from just about every episode. Tasks such as understanding your suburb/market, your target inhabitant, and council due progress and restriction are covered. It also demonstrates the more conventional ‘trials and tribulations of renovating property’ wisdom. The follow-up section at the end, along with detailed summaries of blown budgets and lacklustre profits, can also serve as a sobering reality check for those with the ‘romantic’ dream of property renovation.
Where you can access it: For Australians this show is very difficult to access. Apart from the airing of occasional episodes on Foxtel’s LifeStyle channel, it does not air here on free to air television, nor has it been released on DVD in Australian region 4 coding. Even finding a UK supplier online to buy from is tough. The other program is that although there has been over 10 seasons, not all seem to have been put on DVD in the UK in the first place.
Cameron McEvoy is a NSW-based property investor and maintains a blog, <a href="https://propertyspectator.blogspot.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Spectator.</a>
For more on property reality TV,<a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-lessons-from-the-block-and-other-property-reality-television-shows" target="_blank"> download our free eBook</a>
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Real-life property lessons from The Block, Hot Property and other reality shows:  Cameron McEvoy

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The unemployment rate increased marginally by 0.1 percentage points to 5.4% in December,  according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
This was in line with consensus forecasts.
The December data release included upward revisions to the November unemployment reading with job gains upwardly revised from 13,900 to 17,100 jobs while work hours were also revised up in November, now showing 0.8% growth rather than 0.1%.
"In short, the job market remains resilient," says CommSec economist Savanth Sebastian.
The Commonwealth Bank had forecast the unemployment rate to remain unchanged at 5.3%.
Commonwealth Bank chief economist Michael Blythe says the RBA pays “a lot of attention to the jobs data". 
"It is the one monthly statistic that covers the whole economy.
“Trends in the unemployment rate are a good near?term predictor of RBA rate moves,” he says.
Economists tipping multiple cuts in the cash rate this year are forecasting a rise in unemployment to around 5.7% over the course of the year along with lower economic growth.
According to the ABS, the number of people employed decreased by 5,500 to 11,538,900 in December.
The decrease in employment was driven by decreased full-time employment, down 13,800 people to 8,112,500 and was offset by increased part-time employment, up 8,300 people to 3,426,400. The increase in part-time employment was driven by an increase in male part-time employment. The number of people unemployed increased by 16,600 people to 656,400 in December, the ABS reported.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

RBA interest rates watch: slight rise in unemployment to 5.4% in December, but as forecast

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There are 23 suburbs in Melbourne where first-home buyers can purchase a one-bedroom apartment and pay equal or less than the average estimated first-home buyer mortgage repayment in Victoria of $414 per week.
The suburbs can be found in an interactive heat map showing weekly mortgage repayment price bands across Melbourne suburbs compiled by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) as part of its new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reiv.com.au/Property-Research/First-Home-Buyer-Guide">first-home buyer guide.</a>
The $414 per week median mortgage repayment is based on the average first-home buyer loan size of approximately $286,600, a standard variable interest rate of 6.40%, receipt of the $7,000 First Home Owners Grant, a loan term of 30 years, a 10% deposit, and benchmark Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) and conveyance fees.
First-home buyers may be surprised to learn that the list includes inner city, café-lined suburbs like Carlton and Moonee Ponds, the bayside suburb of Williamstown and up-and-coming suburbs like Preston and Reservoir.
The full list starting from the cheapest is:
<ol>
<li>
<a href="/news">Noble Park</a>, $202 per week, median price of $155,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Albion </a>- $232 per week, median price $177,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Box Hill</a> - $257 per week, median price of $194,750</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Carlton </a>- $257 per week, median price of $195,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Frankston </a>- $260 per week, median price of $197,500</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Footscray </a>- $325 per week, median price of $245,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Ormond</a> - $339 per week, median price of $255,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">West Footscray</a> - $346 per week, median price of $260,250</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Epping </a>- $347 per week, median price of $261,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Brunswick West </a>- $365 per week, median price of $274,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Moonee Ponds</a> - $366 per week, median of $275,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Mentone </a>- $370 per week, median price of $277,750</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Reservoir </a>- $380 per week, median price of $285,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Preston </a>- $381 per week, median price of $285,500</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Williamstown </a>- $387 per week, median price of $290,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Coburg </a>- $388 per week, median price of $291,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Murrumbeena </a>- $391 per week, median price of $293,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Flemington </a>- $392 per week, median price of $294,000</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Bundoora </a>- $394 per week, median price of $294,000</li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Glen Huntly</a> - $401 per week, median price of $300,500</li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Thornbury</a> - $401 per week, median price of $300,000</li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Essendon </a>- $414 per week, median price of $310,000</li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Carnegie </a>- $414 per week, median price of $310,000</li>
</ol>
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From Noble Park to Essendon: 23 Melbourne suburbs with one-bedroom apartments priced below the first-home buyer mortgage median

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Rental vacancies rose in all mainland capital cities over December with Melbourne recording the highest vacancy rate of 3.6% - up 0.4 percentage points - with over 15,000 properties available for rent, according to the latest SQM Research figures.
The only capital city to buck the trend or rising rental vacancies was Hobart, where the vacancy rate eased marginally from 2.1% to 2% with 549 properties available for rent.
Perth remains the tightest capital city rental market with a vacancy rate of 0.9%, up from 0.7% in November, but unchanged on a year ago with 1,710 properties available for rent.
Sydney still favouring landlords with a vacancy rate of 2.1%, up from 1.8% in November, well below what is considered a balanced rental vacancy rate of 3%.
Melbourne, with a vacancy rate of 3.6% favours tenants and is described by Australian Property Monitors as the most “tenant friendly” capital city market in Australia.
Nationally, the vacancy rate increased by 0.4 percentage points to 2.3% with to a total of 63,089 rental listings following a rise in November – the first rise seen months “after periods of modest declines and stagnation in the months preceding” - but in line with SQM expectations.
“However, when comparing this figure to that of the corresponding period of the previous year (December 2011), there is very little to no change in vacancies,” says Louis Christopher, managing director of SQM Research.
“Thus, this surge is seen predominantly by SQM Research as a seasonal increase, with many rental properties becoming vacant during this period due to possible reasons such as university students vacating student accommodation or rental properties situated near their respective campuses, due to the end of year break,” he says.
Christopher says that at this time of the year “seasonality really can have an impact upon vacancy rates and overall property listings, and this year has proven to be no exception”.
“SQM Research does not seasonally adjust its numbers because we are of the opinion that the user of the data actually receives more value from observing the seasonal change that occurs in the property market,” he adds.
SQM’s calculations of vacancies are based on online rental listings that have been advertised for three weeks or more compared to the total number of established rental properties rather than what it considers an inferior methodology of using a "potentially incomplete sample of agency surveys or merely relying on raw online listings advertised".
 
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