<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Joel Robinson

Smith by Valli delivers design-led apartments to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer BIG Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for BIG Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of BIG Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its unique detailing and compelling design,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. BIG Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road 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

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Richmond development sites are benefiting from the ongoing demand for office space and the declining demand for residential projects.
Larry Takis of local commercial property agency Teska Carson said as development site availability is drying up the competition, every opportunity has swelled considerably and they are seeing strong results.
Teksa Carson have sold nearly $18 million worth of development property in since December.
They recently sold a colourful development site at 45 Vere Street (above), which went to a local developer for $5.85 million on a 2.1 percent yield.
There were four developers bidding for the property, which saw a competitive 55 bids before the hammer came down.
Teksa Carson agent George Takis, who sold the property with Larry, called it an 'outstanding result.'
"This was an outstanding result driven by the incredibly hot market for city fringe development sites, especially in and around Richmond," Takis suggested.
"The difference here was the commercial zoning, which lends itself to flavour-of-the-month office development." 
The property comprises two commercial buildings over 1300 sqm including a modern office/warehouse of 323 sqm and a second, older 1000 sqm building.
Both buildings sit on a 1560 square metre site zoned Commercial 2.
The property was sold subject to several short term leases currently returning approximately $122,000 per annum net.
The sale follows several other developer purchases in Richmond, most recently that of 152-154 Murphy Street which was purchased by a developer for $3.55 million, more than $500,000 over the vendor’s reserve.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Developer competition driving Richmond development site sales 

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Fisherman's Point, an eight acre Hawkesbury River waterfront property previously used as an outdoor recreational camp, has been listed for sale.
The property, only directly accessible by boat, helicopter or seaplane, was once owned by Outward Bound Australia.
They ran a charitable camping and adventure organisation that began as a post-war mission to help boys become men.
Outward Bound sold the property in the 1970s to Knox Grammar for their camping and adventure programs.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/12/hawk.jpg" alt="">
In 2000 Knox Grammar sold Fisherman's Point to London-based multi-millionaire and neighbour Ian Gowrie-Smith.
The boarding house style facilities with 26 bedrooms can accomodate up to 120 people, along with a recreation hall with full commercial kitchen.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/12/ghost3.jpg" alt="">
LJ Hooker Terrigal agent Tim Andrews suggests tourism and hospitality uses including resort, health retreat or wedding venue.
He has hopes for between $4.4 million to $4.8 million for the four allotments that are being sold in one line.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Outward Bound Australia ghost town for sale

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Savills have sold The George Hotel in South Melbourne.
The corner property, located opposite the South Melbourne Market, was bought by a mainland Chinese investor.
The historic inner-city pub sold on a 4.86 per cent yield for $5.2 million.
It reflected a 30 per cent capital gain in less than three years for the Tresise family whose Commercial Hospitality Group will continue to operate it under a lease agreement, which has just over four years to run plus renewal options.
The George Hotel was marketed as "an outstanding investment opportunity with significant future development upside, strong income and a blue-chip position." 
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">This two level freehold hotel recently came under a new 5+5+5+5 year lease that commenced this January with a current net rental of $253,146 per annum. </div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }"> </div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">Having operated for over 150 years, The George Hotel is described as "a true South Melbourne institution"</div>
<div data-bind="html: descriptionExpandableTextArea.displayText, css: { collapsed: !descriptionExpandableTextArea.isExpanded(), animate: descriptionExpandableTextArea.animate }, element: descriptionExpandableTextArea.textElement, attr: { style: descriptionExpandableTextArea.style }">
 The 406 sqm holding is zoned Commercial 1.</div>
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The George Hotel in South Melbourne sells to Chinese investor

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Australia’s unlisted property sector has continued its strong run delivering a return of 18% for the 12 months to 30 June 2018, according to a quarterly report produced by Zenith Investment Partners, MSCI, the Property Funds Association and the Property Council of Australia.
The report found that unlisted property outperformed Australian equities (+12.9%) and A-REITs (+9.7%) despite an uptick in equities and A-REITs during the last quarter. 
Mitchell McCallum, Vice President at MSCI, said that the attractiveness of property is backed by relatively high yields compared to other asset classes as well as stable and consistent income, that mostly provides a natural hedge against inflation.
“MSCI’s research shows that rising interest rates do not automatically have to translate in negative returns, but that the general economy is a larger driver of where property returns will go, as, contrary to bond coupons, property income can adjust to shifts in economic growth,” he said.
“We’re continuing to see interest in direct property from overseas investors due to the high income returns compared to those returns in other global gateway cities like London, New York and Tokyo.”
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/11/unlisted%20property%201.jpg" alt="">
 
Souce: <a id="m_-8793514629263697276LPlnk754225" href="http://www.propertyfunds.org.au/images/Property_Research/Property_Investment_Factsheet_Q2_2018.pdf" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.propertyfunds.org.au/images/Property_Research/Property_Investment_Factsheet_Q2_2018.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536710418690000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFynfYRvOEOBY-_sW7mR0vpahV9VQ">Property Investment Factsheet – June 2018</a>
Mark Lumby, Head of Commercial Property at Australian Unity, said ongoing domestic uncertainty would continue to influence the market, but the outlook for unlisted property remained positive. 
“While the detail is unknown for now, we’re anticipating one outcome from the Royal Commission will be the detangling of vertically integrated models which may create a more level playing field for non-bank aligned fund managers,” said Lumby.  
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/9/11/unlisted%20property%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/11/unlisted%20property%202.jpg" alt=""> 
Source: <a id="m_-8793514629263697276LPlnk754225" href="http://www.propertyfunds.org.au/images/Property_Research/Property_Investment_Factsheet_Q2_2018.pdf" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=http://www.propertyfunds.org.au/images/Property_Research/Property_Investment_Factsheet_Q2_2018.pdf&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1536710418690000&amp;usg=AFQjCNFynfYRvOEOBY-_sW7mR0vpahV9VQ">Property Investment Factsheet – June 2018</a>
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Unlisted property trusts nearly doubling A-REIT performance 

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The Norman Beisher Medical Research Foundation, which funds clinically based research into the health of women and babies, has sold its Smith Street, Fitzroy corner retail holding.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-fitzroy-502901470" target="_blank">83-87 Smith Street offering</a> attracted six bidders competed for the offering which annual income of $148,426.
It is leased to bag maker Crumpler Design (above and below), Japanese restaurant Neko Neko, the Burnside Cafe and the Greenwood Loft wine bar.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/11/crump2.jpg" alt="">
It fetched $5.1 million which was $1.6 million over reserve on a yield of 2.8%.
The result equated to a land rate of $23,406 a square metre and a building rate of $12,599 a square metre.
The buyer was an Asian family.
The Norman Beisher Medical Research Foundation paid $455,000 in 1993.
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Smith Street, Fitzroy premises sold by Norman Beisher Foundation

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The Confederation of Australian Motor Sports (CAMS) has bought new headquarters in Canterbury.
CAMS has acquired auto group Worldmark's office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-canterbury-502888626" target="_blank">275 Canterbury Road</a> (above).
It cost $6.72 million, having last traded for $675,000 in 1995.
The sports motoring group sold its existing headquarters at 851 Dandenong Road, East Malvern for $8 million last year (below).
CAMS had paid $1,781,000 in 1997.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/11/AMS.jpg" alt="">
There was no room to expand in the building which was in need of a significant upgrade.
The 40 staff will move in March.
Meanwhile, after selling its St Kilda Road headquarters for $95.38 million, the auto industry's local lobby group, The Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce, has snapped up a North Melbourne site for $8.8 million.
It has bought 644-658 Victoria Street after it passed in at auction.
The property, home to Melbourne City Garage, is a vast 1618 square metre garage where the VACC will construct a four-level office with a rooftop garden. 
The VACC is leasing back 464 St Kilda Road - held for 60 years - from new co-owners Abacus and Wing Tai Holdings.
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Motor sports body buys new Canterbury headquarters 

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Little known Queensland developer Troy Daffy of Silverstone Development has emerged as the mystery buyer of Macedon House, the Gisborne three bedroom house which is noted on the Victorian Heritage Register.
It was recently sold for $1.36 million by mortgagees through Jason Kennedy from Kennedy &amp; Hunt Gisborne.
Daffy told the Great Gisborne Gazette he would carry out repairs to Macedon House as ordered by the State Government.
“I may live in Brisbane, but at heart I am still a Gisborne boy,” he told the local paper.
Built circa 1847, Macedon House at 1 Kilmore Road operated for some time as the Mount Macedon Hotel, then functioned as a boarding and guest house for many years from 1887.
Since then, the building on 5.17 acres has been used as a private house, restaurant, reception centre, bowling clubhouse and kindergarten.
Specified works have been outlined by Heritage Victoria that needs to be actioned to prevent further deterioration of the structure.
It was last sold at $250,100 in 1998.
<a href="https://freshlyworded.com/2018/06/12/macedon-house-the-old-and-new-history-of-a-gisborne-ruin/" target="_blank">A local blogger</a> noted Macedon House had been bought for $190,000 in 1995 by the Gisborne Bowling Club who sold it for $250,000 in 1998 to Mainpoint, the family company of Eduard “Ted” Sent.
In 2014 Melbourne developer Brian Forshaw, who has been a business partner of Sent acquired Macedon House for $770,000.
Forshaw had hoped he'd struck a deal to sell Macedon House to a company called Nuline Consulting, ultimately owned by Grace Sent, Ted Sent’s wife.
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Silverstone Group's Troy Daffy buys Macedon House, Gisborne

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The latest research from Burke Road Cityscope shows sales value has decreased in the quarter to August 2018.
In the latest quarter, there were six sales at a total value of $6 million, compared to the five sales at a total value of $10.8 million in the previous quarter.
This quarter brings the 12-month total to $85.8 million of 20 sales, an increase compared to the 28 sales at a total value of $58.5 million over the previous year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Burke Road Cityscope.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/9/10/BURKE%20RD%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/BURKE%20RD%201.jpg" alt=""> 
Notable sales in the August 2018 update of Burke Road Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>5 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East (pictured below), a single-storey former house converted to use as an office and warehouse on a 190 square metre block and 7 Redfern Road, Hawthorn East, a single-storey former house on a 192 square metre block, which were bought together as a development site for $2.05 million through Knight Frank - Glen Waverley; </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/5%20REDFERN%20RD.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>742 Burke Road, Camberwell, a two-storey 48 square metre brick shop building with first floor dwelling with a brick outbuilding at the rear and parking for four or five cars in a paved rear yard and carport, which was bought for $1.65 million through Prowse Burns Commercial; and </li>
<li>Unit 1 at 321-323 Camberwell Road, Camberwell, a ground floor space on the north-west side of approximately 173 square metre and three car spaces, which was bought for $1.135 million through DBRE Pty Ltd - Moorabbin. </li>
</ul>
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/BURKE%20RD%202.jpg" alt="">
Properties for sale in the August 2018 update of Burke Road Cityscope include:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/267%20Camberwell%20Road.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>267 Camberwell Road, Camberwell (pictured above), a single-storey brick retail building with brick one-car garage at rear, constructed in 1940 on a 257 square metre block, which is for sale by auction on 31 August, 2018 through Teska Carson Pty Ltd – Richmond; and</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/694%20burke%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>Unit 1, a ground level retail space and unit 2, consisting of office space on level one and residential on level two at 694 Burke Road, Camberwell (pictured above), a brick building with three-storeys to the front and two and three-storeys to the rear, constructed 1890 and refurbished in 1997 and 2005 with a four-car garage at rear on a 184 square metre block; which is for sale together by auction on 31 August, 2018 through RT Edgar – Hawthorn.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities listed in the August 2018 update of Burke Road Cityscope include:
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/693%20burke%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>693 Burke Road, Hawthorn East (pictured above), a four-storey commercial building with a ground floor car parking area and 24 basement car spaces, which has an office space of 336 sqm available through Gorman Commercial; </li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/691%20burke%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>Chiquita House at 691 Burke Road, Hawthorn East, a five-storey concrete building with parking for 17 cars on part of the ground floor and to the rear, built 1971  and building was renovated in 1990 and again in 1999, which has office space ranging from 214 to 329 square metre available through Gorman Commercial; and</li>
</ul>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/10/697%20burke%20rd.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>697 Burke Road, Camberwell, a seven-level concrete office building built in the 1970s and refurbished in 1999 which comprises office floors, an upper ground floor showroom/office and parking for 38 vehicles on the lower ground floor and an additional car space stacker for 16 vehicles, has an office space of 253 square metres for lease through JLL Glen Waverley and Colliers International Melbourne East. </li>
</ul>
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Burke Road, Camberwell commercial property sale values fall

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Investor Paul Holyoake was the under-bidder, pipped by a locally based Chinese buyer, when 487-495 Bridge Road, Richmond went to recent auction.
The $14.81 million price reflected a 2.09 per cent yield, well above its $11.6 million reserve.
The onsite lunchtime auction of the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-richmond-502909238" target="_blank">Adairs showroom</a> reportedly attracted a crowd including George Saade, Nick Williams and Joel Freeman, who redeveloped the Dimmeys building in Swan Street.
The Chinese buyer was one of four Chinese parties making bids on the 1045 sq m single level building.
It is on a 1658 sq m site with 50 metres frontage with future development potential. 
It is leased to Adairs and Regal Sleep Solutions for 10 years, currently returning $422,282 a year and about $310,000 net.
The vendors were barrister Tony Kiel and Sandra Rush, who had paid $500,000 in 1984.
Meanwhile Beller Commercial have leased 236-238 Bridge Rd, Richmond to celebrated photography agency Blessed Vision for 3 + 3 years after only 2 weeks without a tenant.
The property was leased by Beller Commercial leasing agent Max Warren for $65,0000 net per annum at $144 PSM.
The highly visible shop-front was in great condition, which played a large contributing factor to it being snapped up in a flash.
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Max Warren advised Bridge Road Richmond was once a bustling shoppers paradise, however with a now roughly 18% vacancy rate the outlet-shopping mecca now feels a little sparse.
"Landlords need to be realistic if they are to start earning an income on their properties," he said.
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Paul Holyoake misses out on Adairs, Bridge Road Richmond showroom offering

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Over the weekend I spoke to crowds of people with their heads crammed full of media misinformation.
The number one point of discussion was the general perception that prices are falling across Australia, thanks to simplistic analysis and inaccurate headlines.
In reality, the latest monthly price report from CoreLogic (the source of most articles and headlines on prices) tells us that there are 14 major market jurisdictions across Australia (eight capital cities and six state regional areas) – and nine of the 14 have price levels higher than last year.
I see plenty of potential for buyers to find locations where prices are rising or are on the cusp of a growth phase.
How do you find them? Here are four markers that provides clues to future price growth …
1 The underlying local economy is rising
In 2011 when the government changed in New South Wales, the state ranked as one of the weakest economies in the nation, according to CommSec’s State of the States report.
But with proactive governance and increased spending on infrastructure, NSW rose steadily up the rankings to eventually become the nation’s strongest economy. Out of that came the Sydney property boom.
There was a similar story in Tasmania. Traditionally Tasmania has ranked as our weakest economy but, following a major change of state government in 2014, the state rose up the national rankings, eventually reaching its current position of No.4, ahead of Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia.
The marked improvement in the state economy gave rise to the growth in the Hobart property market, now the strongest among the capital cities for price growth.
The linkages between capital city property markets and the underlying state economy are undeniably strong.
So where does this marker point us for the next growth markets among the capital cities?
There are definite signs of improvement in the economies of Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland.
This, along with other indicators, suggests better growth in the property markets in Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane.
2 Demand has risen but prices haven’t moved much - yet
Three capital cities stand out for this reason: Perth, Canberra and Adelaide.
There has been significant uplift in sales activity in Perth, as the underlying state economy improves.
Canberra sales activity is rising steadily also, and Adelaide currently has one of the most active markets among the capital cities.
When demand rises, prices tend to follow. One major forecaster has tipped Canberra to lead on price growth in the next 2-3 years. I think the national capital will definitely be a contender, but so will Perth and Adelaide.
3 Rents have risen strongly, but prices haven’t moved much - yet
Before Sydney prices started to rise, we saw a couple of years of strong growth in residential rentals. Before house prices started to move in Hobart, it was noticeable that vacancies were extremely low and that rents were rising. Prices followed.
So where are those conditions most evident right now in capital city Australia? The clear answer is Canberra, where vacancies are below 1% and residential rents have risen strongly in the past year or so, according to SQM Research data.
We’re also observing significant improvement in the Perth rental market, with vacancies declining and leasing activity rising.
4 Prices overall haven’t moved much, but the Top End has had strong growth
Sydney’s growth cycle started at the Top End and rippled out over time. In Melbourne, the up-cycle began in the millionaire suburbs and gravitated from there to the middle ring and more recently to the outer ring suburbs.
This is a common pattern in property cycles. And right now there are three capital cities where the million-dollar suburbs have had double-digit price growth in the past year, but the market overall has not had big price growth.
Those three cities are Perth, Adelaide and Canberra.
Where do all these markers point us?
Put all those indicators together and they point to strong price growth in the near future in three capital cities:
<ul class="ul1">
<li class="li1">Canberra: the underlying economy ranks third in the nation, it has the highest average incomes and lowest unemployment, vacancies are low and the rental growth is the highest in the nation, sales activity (demand) is increasing and the Top End prices have risen strongly.</li>
<li class="li1">Adelaide: the state economy is improving and has big growth drivers in the system, vacancies are below average, demand is rising, yields are strong and Top End prices have risen at above-average rates.</li>
<li class="li1">Perth: the state economy is recovering, vacancies are falling, rental activity is rising, sales activity is steadily improving and Top End prices have recorded double-digit annual growth in many of the millionaire suburbs.</li>
</ul>
Brisbane will get on board if the signals of an improving state economy and the promise of big spending on infrastructure actually come to pass.
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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