<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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The Planning Institute of Australia (PIA) has welcomed the appointment of experienced professional town planners to the new Independent Hearing Assessment Panels (IHAPS) being implemented across the greater Sydney and Wollongong regions.
Of the 41 chairs allocated to the IHAPS by the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, 18 are accredited planners and PIA members.
The panels became operational on 1 March.
PIA chief executive David Williams said that many eminent NSW planners had been successful, who will bow help to grow the NSW government’s partnership with councils, local communities and environmental groups.
PIA represents over 5000 planners nationally, and each year engages with nearly 10,000 planners working in the public and private sectors.
Planners who are PIA members have undertaken accredited planning degrees and gained professional experience working in diverse areas of planning ranging from the neighbourhood to the national level.
They also adhere to a comprehensive Professional Code of Conduct.
Experienced planners understand the complexity of legislation that impacts Australia’s diverse urban environments and appreciate the critical role played by community in the planning process, Williams said.
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Professional planning experts to play critical part of IHAPS

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A former car showroom converted to an office has sold under the hammer at a record land rate for a Commercial 2-zoned property in Melbourne's inner-northern suburb of Abbotsford.
Fitzroys’ Chris Kombi and Stuart Kennett sold the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-abbotsford-502692982" target="_blank">398 Johnston Street</a> property for $3.115 million. Eight parties were bidding and pushed the price to $700,000 above the reserve.
The price reflected a sharp yield of 3.1% and a record land rate of $7,710 per square metre.
The dual-fronted site of 404 square metres includes a refurbished building of 320 square metres, leased to building maintenance cloud solutions group Uptick on a 4 x 4 year deal returning $98,880 per annum plus outgoings and GST.
Kennett said the depth of the enquiry, which saw more than 120 enquiries received, and the outstanding result reflected a very hot market in this pocket of the inner city.
“The population of Melbourne’s inner-north is still booming as medium and high-density inner-city living are embraced in growing numbers, underpinning the viability of businesses in the area as opportunities to acquire sites of this potential become increasingly rare,” he said.
“The property was very well received by the wider market of investors, developers and owner occupiers with the versatility of the property and prospect of future capital growth driving the strong demand.”
Kennett and Kombi sold the property on behalf of a private investor.
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Former Abbotsford car showroom fetches record price

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Engineered joining technology manufacturer Norma Group is set to relocate to Logis Eco-Industrial Business Park, as part of a growing trend of major corporations moving to the Dandenong South industrial precinct.
The global company has signed a pre-lease for a 3,000 square metre state-of-the-art office/warehouse on Bazalgette Crescent, in Melbourne's south east, to be fulfilled by market-leading developer, BFD Construction.
Savills Australia’s Kosta Filinis worked closely with both parties to negotiate the seven-year term.  
Industry sources believe rental rates for similar asset in the precinct are circa $100-$110 per square metre.
“This lease term is a sign of the commitment from both sides to the project, and has enabled both the tenant and the landlord to achieve their requirements,” Filinis said.
The purpose-built facility will have direct access to Greens Road, the Dandenong Bypass and EastLink, and is located in the Logis North section of the Logis Eco-Industrial Business Park.
The environmentally friendly estate, which was developed by Melbourne Water and Places Victoria.
Filinis said the deal was another “outstanding result” for the popular Dandenong South industrial market.
“The area is consistently drawing occupiers from competing markets, such as Braeside, Scoresby and Rowville.”
Norma Group’s new facility marks another major deal for BFD, which has enjoyed recent successes developing warehouses of a similar size for NSK Australia, Sullair Australia and Terex.
 
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Major corporations head to Dandenong South: Savills

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One of Erskineville's biggest sites has been listed, with investors set to battle it out for the site with rare approved boarding house plans.
Savill's agent David Hickey suggested approval for boarding houses are scarce because councils face strong opposition through the approval process from surrounding residents.
“Current affordable housing operators and owners are having zero issues letting rooms on a longer term basis, as the security of income is making it an attractive prospect for investors and developers alike," said Hickey.
The growth in the Sydney residential market continues to make it difficult for students and middle age people to live in close proximity to the Sydney CBD.
The cost of living is now $600 per week for one bedroom apartments and this has made affordable living accommodation a much more appealing prospect.
Hickey said Erskineville is an area dominated by attached housing, so it is extremely rare to find a suitable site, especially as heritage conservation zones dominate most of the area prohibiting full demolition.
The Albert Street property on 450 square metres has 15 metres of street frontage is is located within 400 metres of Newtown, Erskineville and Macdonaldtown train stations.
Hickey and Nick Tuxworth at Savills Australia are marketing the property. Hickey said the City of Sydney Council is keen to promote properties with access to such amenity.
“Due to quantum value, leasing demand and low risk/low construction costs, we are experiencing high levels of enquiry for this asset class,” he said.
Currently, the property is a modernised five bedroom house with off-street parking and has the capacity to be rented out for $1,300 per week.
The existing tenants are on a temporary discounted rent and have agreed to allow the owner access to bring consultants through at short notice and will move out when building commences.
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One of Erskineville's biggest sites for sale

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Construction activity saw a rebound in the value of new residential development applications captured over February, according to CoreLogic.
The combined value of development proposals for February was $12.6 billion; almost half of which was residential.
Residential application values over February totalled $6.1 billion, which represents a 64% month on month increase.
For new residential projects captured by CoreLogic, New South Wales saw a $3.5 billion application, entailing works for the Wilton North Precinct (above).
The project encompasses the construction of 5,500 homes, with 5,000 square metres of retail, as well as playing fields, open space, local centres and schools. The project is being led by Bradcorp Holdings Pty Ltd.
CoreLogic commercial research analyst Eliza Owen said new deals have developers seeing long term growth in Sydney's housing market.
"The high value, large scale residential development applications are surprising, given our indices data is indicating a decline in Sydney dwelling values over the year," she said.
“Clearly, the Western Sydney City Deal and the vision from the Greater Sydney Commission has developers anticipating long term growth in Sydney’s housing market.”
<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/2018/3/13/VALUE.jpg" alt="">
The Wilton North Precinct proposal is within the Wollondilly Shire Council, which in turn is in ‘The Western Parkland City’, as outlined by the Greater Sydney Commission.
Earlier this month Malcom Turnbull launched the Western Sydney City Deal with council leaders, and NSW state premier Gladys Berejiklian.
City Deals are an initiative for all levels of government, the private sector and the community to work together, to create large scale construction projects and economic reform.
Among the various employment initiatives outlined for Western Sydney in the City Deals agreement, a ‘North-South’ rail link was announced, which would link south-west Sydney with St Marys station, via the future Badgery’s Creek Airport.The project currently has an approximate construction value estimate of $20 billion.
The application for over 5,000 new dwellings in Sydney coincides with the first annual decline in the Sydney CoreLogic Hedonic Home Value Index since August 2012.
In the 12 months to February, the index declined 0.5%, indicating values across the city are starting to fall. However, the plans being laid out for Greater Sydney may be prompting counter-cyclical behaviour among developers, who are betting on long-term growth in the metropolitan area.
CoreLogic commercial research analyst Eliza Owen noted the overall construction value of new project was below the five year.
“Despite the bullish residential development applications in Sydney, the combined construction value of all new projects captured over February is below the five year average of $13.6 billion per month, and was also substantially lower than the $18 billion recorded in January.” 
While development applications were slightly subdued in February, CoreLogic captured 713 projects moving into the construction stages over the month. This is lower than the five year average of 1,022 projects per month, but is 11.4% higher than the number that moved into construction in the previous month.
The construction value of projects that commenced over February increased 20.2% on the previous month, to $5.1 billion
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Residential construction activity rebounds in February: CoreLogic

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Two adjoining industrial warehouses within the Victoria Gardens precinct at Richmond in Melbourne’s inner east.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-richmond-502731578" target="_blank">39 and 41 Blazey Street</a> properties are located in a sought after precinct bounded by Bridge Road and Swan Street, Burnley.
Both properties are a solid brick, single level industrial building with a 10 tonne overhead crane and roller door access.
Number 39 spans 370 square metres on its 425 square metre site, while 41 is 305 square metres on 411 square metres.
Both properties will be sold subject to monthly tenancies while 41 Blazey Street also includes $28,962 annual rental income from a Telco Tower.
Larry Takis and Tom Maule at Teska Carson are marketing the commercial properties with owner-occupiers, investors and commercial developers the likely interested parties.
"Along with the residential development we have seen numerous associated commercial and retail construction projects that have driven an escalation of property values across all sectors of the market and that process is ongoing.’’ Maule said.
The properties will be auctioned April 4.
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Industrial Richmond warehouses offer numerous options

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The 1870s Brucedale Chapel in the NSW Riverina has been listed for sale.
Over the years the property has been the venue for many weddings. 
It goes to <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-brucedale-127668850" target="_blank">March 24 auction</a>.
The Brucedale Community Chapel was refurbished by the Oleary's in 1995 with the chapel being reconsecrated and blessed by Bishop Brennan in the same year.
Since this time the chapel has been open to weddings and christenings for all people of all denominations and orientations.
The lush green gardens are spotted with rose bushes, vine covered walkways and a multitude of coloured flowers.
"The cherry on top is a beautiful old bell that can be heard at the conclusion of any ceremony," the marketing says.
Dame Mary Gilmore, a noted Australian poet, attended church here as a child and was so inspired by the beauty and magic of the property that she wrote the following poem:
O neighbourly hands and neighbourly hearts,  How memory burns and the hot tear starts! For, shades in the moonlight, I see you pass Where the white of the frost is crimping the grass, And I hear you sing, when the nights are dark,  Where you set your course to an heavenly mark. O brave forerunners, who never sought fame,  How the church you loved must treasure each name!
The main house has a Tuscan exterior with its painted concrete walls and green gardens.
The French doors opening out to the front porch are over 100 years old, coming from the dividing wall at Mt Erin archives and have been cut and re-glassed to fit into the house.
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Riverina's Brucedale Chapel estate for auction

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A Tamworth property created by Sydney architects Tanner Kibble Denton has won the World Architecture News Commercial Architecture Award 2017.
The building, Glasshouse at Goonoo Goonoo Station, was honoured in London recently with the project design director John Rose present to receive the award. 
“This is a very proud moment. We have a dynamic young team based in Sydney and this award shows the world what they are capable of," Rose said.
"A juror said that our project was a ‘stand-out’; this is an incredible endorsement amongst such an impressive line-up of international projects."
The Glasshouse is a state of the art restaurant and function centre with a contemporary dining experience with expansive views of the surrounding hills.
<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/2018/3/14/glasshouse2.jpg" alt="">
It sits between two original agricultural structures, the 1870s Woolstore and a 1950s Shearing Shed.
The restaurants offers a strong visual connection with the Woolstore, with the rusticity of the sheep ramp and shearing shed. 
“The design responds to the materiality of country- steel, stone and timber," Rose said.
"It complements the solid enclosure that is the Woolstore and the mechanism that is the Shearing Shed.
"The outcome is an elegant and simple building, occupying the space between the historic elements that animates the entire precinct when in use."
Goonoo Goonoo Station was first established in 1841.
Glasshouse also won the Sir Arthur G Stephenson Award at the Australian Institute of Architects NSW.
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Sydney architect wins world commercial building award

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Located in the sought-after High Street Armadale retail precinct, ground floor retail space in the forthcoming Chronicle development is available for sale. 
It is listed for sale by Jonathan Hu from Clover Property Group.
<a href="http://www.commercialpropertyguide.com.au/property/286194/sale/948-960-high-street/armadale-vic-3143/retail/" target="_blank">Positioned at 948-960 High Street,</a> it suits a variety of uses including retail, hospitality, office or medical.
The floor area acrosses 184 square metres.
<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/2018/2/28/948-950%20high%20st.jpg" alt="">
Surrounded by retailers including Acne Studio, Scanland Theodore and Aesop, it is marketed as ideal for owner occupation or investment.
Armadale railway station and tram stops are within short distance. 
It is currently under construction with expected completion early 2019.
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Chronicle, Armadale flagship retail offering

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Research on price growth over time often contradics long-held beliefs about where you get the best growth.
Information put together recently by PIPA found that Hobart had achieved the highest percentage growth in house prices among the capital cities over the past 15 years, while Sydney had recorded the lowest growth.
There are similarly surprising outcomes from publication by CoreLogic of the growth in various jurisdictions across Australia in the four most recent five-year periods.
One of the things this shows is that, overall, the past five years have been quite tame for growth in house prices.
Media has often referred in the past few years to an unprecedented national property boom, but I have maintained that we have not had a national boom and the growth recorded in the places with strong markets, such as Sydney and Melbourne, has been far from unprecedented.
These CoreLogic figures would tend to confirm that. They examine the five-year periods up to January in each of 2003, 2008, 2013 and 2018.
In terms of national average price growth, the five-year period to January 2003 was the most prolific, by a considerable margin. Values (national average) grew 62 percent in the five years to 2003, while in the five years to January 2018 the growth was just 38 percent. The five-year period up to 2008 (national rise of 44 percent) was also higher than the most recent period.
There were all kinds of regional differences within each of those five-year periods, reinforcing once again that we do not have a single national market, but many different local markets.
In the five years up to 2003, which was the last time we had a genuine national property boom, the combined capitals grew 64 percent and the combined rest of state (the regional areas) rose 54 percent. But the leading jurisdiction in the nation for that period was Regional NSW, which rose 84 percent, followed by Canberra (up 79 percent) and Regional Victoria (up 66 percent).
Five of the capital cities grew more than 55 percent in that period, while Perth rose 46 percent and Hobart was up 38 percent. Everywhere in Australia, both city and regional, showed some kind of meaningful growth.
In the five years to 2008, regional areas were dominant, with the combined regional areas up 53 percent while the capital cities increased only 42 percent.
This was a period when Western Australia was the leading market in the nation, with Regional WA up 121 percent in five years - mostly resources centres like Port Hedland and Karratha, as well as lifestyle towns like Mandurah, recording extraordinary growth. The Perth market rose 102 percent in that period.
That was also the time frame in which Tasmania caught the boom wave from the mainland (rather similar to Tasmania right now), with Hobart (up 75 percent) the No.2 city for growth after Perth, while Regional Tasmania grew 89 percent. 
The regional areas of Queensland and the Northern Territory also had substantial price rises in that five-year period.
Meanwhile, in those five years to 2008, Sydney rose only 12 percent. It was mediocre also during the next five-year period, up to 2013, growing just 9 percent over five years. This is why Sydney ranked eighth and last among the capital cities in the 15-year capital growth figures published by PIPA.
Overall, that five-year period up to 2013 was the weakest nationally in recent times. The only place that showed much uplift during that time was the Northern Territory, with Darwin up 32 percent and Regional NT up 38 percent.
At that time, prices were going backwards in Brisbane, Perth, Hobart and a number of regional areas.
Then, in the most recent five-year stanza, Sydney rose 64 percent and Melbourne 56 percent. To put into perspective, remember that leading markets in the five years to 2008 grew more than 100 percent and the national leaders in the five years to 2003 increased 79-84 percent.
The only other places to show much uplift in the past five years were Regional NSW (up 38 percent) and Hobart, which started to show the beginnings of its current boom 12-18 months ago.
In this latest five years, prices went backwards in Perth and Regional WA, as well as in Darwin (whicb dropped 20 percent ) and Regional NT.
Overall, the figures confirm that we have many different markets in Australia and that, at any given point in time, they are not all moving in the same direction or at the same speed.
And that, contrary to popular belief, the major cities do not always out-perform the smaller cities or the regional areas. 
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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