<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

<html><body>
A boutique freehold warehouse in Surry Hills has been listed in a prime location in the Sydney city fringe suburb.  
The property, <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/12-14-little-riley-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010-2014159716">12-14 Little Riley Street</a>, is an underdeveloped traditional two-storey warehouse spanning 217 square metres.
With clear open floor plates, it has potential for repositioning into a high quality residence, or as continued commercial office space. 
The property has been listed through Knight Frank’s Demi Carigliano and Adam Bodon.
There are $2.3 million expectations.
<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/2018/2/13/12-14%20Little%20Riley%20Street%20interior.jpg" alt="">
 The property will be auctioned on site on March 17.  
It last sold at $480,000 in 1995.
Its proper owners include George Seper.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Boutique Surry Hills warehouse listed for auction

<html><body>
One of the great absurdities of real estate research is the notion that you can encapsulate price growth for a major city in a single figure. 
The Greater Sydney area has a population of 4.82 million (2016 Census) and contains over 700 suburbs. They include markets as diverse as Macquarie Park versus Macquarie Fields and Newtown versus Campbelltown.
They’re not all doing to the same thing at any one time, nor moving at the same speed.
But the research houses would have us believe that you can distil all the sales activity in these contrasting places into a single growth figure that makes sense.
It’s crazy to even try, but that’s what they do. And media laps it up, so long as it’s presented in a neat little media release package that makes journalists’ lives really easy.
This may explain why Sydney house prices are growing at an annual rate of 7.4 percent if you believe SQM Research asking price growth index, or 4 percent if you trust the latest figures from Domain, or just 0.1 percent if you think CoreLogic is the bee’s knees in real estate data.
Melbourne house prices are growing at either 8 percent, 11.3 percent or 23.6 percent in annual terms, depending on your source of choice.
The Adelaide is rising, or falling; the Perth market is recovering, or not; and Canberra is up 5 percent or 18 percent – all dependent on which report you read most recently.
In my view, all real estate data is rubbery figures, to some degree.
And it’s adds an extra level of absurdity when economists, the least informed species about residential property on planet Earth, discuss Australian real estate as a single market. They all do it and media reports their misinformation daily – because if they have “economist” in their title they must be credible, right?
The reality is that we have a five-speed market in just the eight capital cities – and within those cities they are many different scenarios playing out.
We never have a situation in a major city where all parts of the market are rising (or falling) in unison.
Generally speaking, cycles start in a central point and ripple outwards gradually. The up-cycles in both Melbourne and Sydney began in the so-called prime suburbs and gravitated outwards over 3-4 years.
It’s a signal that the cycle has almost run its course when the areas with the most sales activity and price growth are in the outer-ring suburbs. We’re at that time right now with both our largest cities, with the Camden LGA one of the few remaining upwardly-mobile markets in Greater Sydney, and outlying areas like the Hume LGA and the Wyndham City LGA the strongest markets in Greater Melbourne.
What’s happening with our major markets makes a lot more sense when you chart them using sales volumes, rather than changes in price measures. 
The latter method is fraught with potential for aberrations, with the results dependent on methodology and other factors, as the figures presented earlier illustrate very clearly.
Sydney house prices are not growing at an annual rate of 4 percent, as Domain would have us believe. Some suburbs are growing more than that, others are at the point in the cycle where they’re not growing at all and some have values going a little backwards. A few areas, particularly those close to over-supplied apartment precincts, will have larger declines in values.
But none of that will be conveyed to real estate consumers – they’ll be given a single misleading figure encapsulating the whole city, only to be contradicted a few days later by a different number from another source.
But the sales activity figures (which we examine every quarter for The Price Predictor Index) seldom lie.
They’re revealing in all sorts of ways. For example, how about this question: when did the Melbourne market peak?
For in the swanky inner south-eastern suburbs such as Hawthorn (median price $2.1 million) and Canterbury ($2.9 million), it was early in 2014.
For middle market areas like Blackburn ($1.3 million) and Oakleigh ($1.2 million) it was the early part of 2015. And outer-ring precincts like Cranbourne ($480,000) and Carrum Downs ($500,000) hit their high points late in 2016 or early in 2017. Other outlying areas arrived at that point towards the end of last year.
It shows the many different market scenarios in play across the nation – and the degree to which economists and other commentators misinform consumers with their one-size-fits-all approach to real estate analysis.
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Property price growth cycles start in a central point and ripple outwards gradually: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

<html><body>
A freehold retail investment that is securely leased has sold for nearly 30 percent over reserve at its auction.
The <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/42-mount-eliza-way-mount-eliza-vic-3930-2013962477" target="_blank">Mt Eliza Way property</a> attracted a crowd of over 60, with four bidders pushing the price to $970,000, some $220,000 over reserve.
It sold on a tight 2.9 percent yield.
<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/2018/2/9/eliza2.jpg" alt="">
The 120 sqm open plan and self-contained property sits on a 147 sqm site with nearly five metres frontage to Mt Eliza Way.
It was sold subject to a three year lease to Master Hair &amp; Beauty at $31,930 per annum.
Teska Carson marketing agents George Takis and Luke Bissett marketed the property.
Takis said the sale was yet another example of the very strong market for strip retail assets despite some negative market commentary around retail sales and the potential impact of Amazon.
"There is a huge thirst for retail strip property and particularly in precincts that are well organised, that are backed by local governments, and that offer a contemporary tenancy mix that reflects current trends.
"In this particular instance we also had an asset that sits within an area that has been very popular with investors recently."
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Strong auction sees Mount Eliza retail sell for 30 percent over reserve

<html><body>
Former Brisbane Lion Jamie Charman has joined the real estate ranks.
The former Premiership winning ruckman has been appointed as a sales agent in the Ray White Albion office in Brisbane's inner north-east.
Charman told the local paper he's always been passionate about real estate.
“I actually worked for Ray White Corporate part-time while I was still playing, so it feels so right to come back to this great brand — it’s a household name,” Charman said.
“I’ve always been passionate about residential property, and have bought and sold through Ray White many times.” 
Charman owns two houses in Brisbane with his wife, Calexico director Nicky Charman. Their most recent Hawthorne purchase was bought off-market through Ray White New Farm.
Charman had been involved in the AFL inner circle since retiring and was even hired for a brief period as a part-time kicking and catching coach for North Queensland Cowboys in the NRL.
He had been the commercial manager for the Lions for a number of years following his 2011 retirement. The last two years he's been working with a commercial property company in the inner city.
“During my professional and footballing career, I always bought and sold property and did my own small developments so property has always been a passion of mine and I'm looking forward to helping people in this exciting field full time,” Charman said. 
“For me, the move into real estate is not a huge leap but I am really excited by what the future holds.” 
“I know what the auction process feels like for both the vendor and the buyer. I have been on both sides, so I have a good understanding and empathy for anyone going through this process. 
“I know it’s a stressful time for many buyers and the property market can sometimes be difficult to navigate." 
Charman's career began in 2000 when he was picked as the number 29 draft pick for the Lions from the Sandgate Hawks. 
He made his Lions debut a year later against Fremantle and played in the Lions' 2003 grand final victory.
</body></html>

Former AFL player Jamie Charman makes mark on new field

<html><body>
National residential listings fell by -4.8% to 303,901 in January, as sellers enjoyed the sunshine and trotting off on their summer hols, according to SQM Research. 
The monthly drop was driven by Melbourne (-13.9%) and Sydney (-6.9%). 
<img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X7AEY3BIk_M/WnlqPY5kKZI/AAAAAAAAoNM/Y9pH5Jfk3NsUDwG7pDjrLpZnLfxuKmnxQCLcBGAs/s640/sqm1.jpg" width="640" height="370" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1376">
Despite the monthly decline, Sydney's listings at 26,150 are at the highest level since January 2009, being some +20.9% higher than a year earlier. For the first time in nearly half a decade, Sydney buyers will actually have some choice!
At the other end of the spectrum Melbourne listings are -11.9% lower year-on-year, while Hobart listings have copped an absolute shellacking. 
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0qjmmDauP0/WnmHj7Y11uI/AAAAAAAAoN8/YzsUfjuU2GUoiY2LrrmHG9VhQG7pBTIcACLcBGAs/s640/SQM1.jpg" width="640" height="384" data-original-height="817" data-original-width="1359">
Hobart's housing market is now a buyer's nightmare with just 2,362 listings across the metropolitan area being some -29.1% down from January 2017. 
More strong price gains ahead for Hobart housing this year, then. 
In most other capital city markets stock listings were relatively flat from a year ago. Reported SQM: "Looking forward, with interest rates still at low levels and a possible expansion in lending by the banks, we expect a year of modest prices gains in Sydney and most other capital cities."
Interestingly SQM is quite positive for Sydney's prospects in 2018, certainly more so than most other commentators. 
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.
</body></html>

pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Hobart housing market is a buyer's nightmare: Pete Wargent

<html><body>
2018 is shaping up to be a solid year for the Australian retail investment market if 2017 figures are anything to go by.
According to Savills Quarter Times report, national retail investment volumes reached a 10 year high at $9.17 billion in 2017, with almost half of the total value invested in the $200 million + segment, a trend which hasn’t been seen since 2007.
While overall volumes appeared to moderate during the first half of 2017, major investment volumes quickly recovered and the final quarter closed strongly. 
According to Katy Dean, Associate Director, <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research.aspx" target="_blank">Research &amp; Consultancy, Savills Australia</a>, although investment volumes in 2015 got close to $9 billion, Australian retail investment in 2017 ($5m+) outshines any level seen in the last decade. 
 “Of the surveyed markets, NSW and QLD were the headliners, recording significant rises in investment volumes on a year-on-year basis. 
“Investment volumes in NSW accounted for 45 per cent of national volumes at $4.124billion, almost double the volumes seen in 2016. QLD accounted for almost 30 per cent of the total tally at $2.712billion, a 28 per cent rise on the volumes recorded in 2016. 
“VIC accounted for 20 per cent of national volumes at $1.466billion, however following a surge in 2015 and 2016, volumes were lower for the year ending 2017. 
“WA and SA account for around 9 per cent of the total and while volumes in SA dropped to $230million in 2017, down from $394million in 2016, WA volumes increased 5 per cent to $614million, up from $582million”.  
Ms Dean went on to say that November was the most active month of the year, setting the pace for December which saw a continuation of the high volume, mostly in NSW and QLD, making it the second most active months of 2017. 
“That surge through November and December, has provided a significant boost to the yearend volumes and created a brighter outlook as we start 2018” she continued. 
According to Steven Lerche, National Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/sales-and-investment/retail-investments.aspx" target="_blank">Retail Investments, Savills Australia</a>, 2017 saw the retail property market fuelled by low interest rates, rapid population growth and large volumes of foreign capital. 
“Market conditions remained strong across all sectors but the biggest winners have been the non-discretionary neighbourhood centres and freestanding supermarkets - both of which, have been hotly contested.
Mr Lerche said most active investors are onshore REIT’s, Funds, syndicates and private. Offshore Chinese investment has been patchy but they have targeted well located (next to train stations) redevelopment opportunities allowing for integrated living, shopping and entertaining. 
“Large format retail has remained an active sector with yields falling sharply as investors have been keen to secure such assets” he said. 
From a national perspective, Ms Dean said regional, sub regional and neighbourhood transactions were the largest contributors to overall volume numbers, with deals in the regional sector ($2.508billion) mostly responsible for the record-breaking year. The last time regional sales volumes got close to this level was back in 2007 ($2.87billion). 
“On average the market turns over $1.02billion in regional assets annually, with sales in 2017 buoyed by five main transactions with stakes selling in Indooroopilly SC in QLD for $800million, Kawana Shoppingworld in QLD for $186million, Highpoint SC in Vic for $660million, Chatswood Chase in NSW for $562.3million and Rockingham SC in WA for $300million.
“Neighbourhood Centre transactions accounted for 20 per cent of total volumes, $1.840billion across the capital cities surveyed, well above the $1.38billion recorded in 2016.
“After recording $1.629billion, the large format sector was a major standout in regards to investment volumes, reaching its highest level in the past decade” she continued. 
Mr Lerche said despite a shift in retail spending, we expect investment sales volumes in 2018 to remain steady. 
“Yields will remain tight due to the continued historically low interest rates and the private sector is likely to continue to cash out at what they believe to be the top of the market.
“In 2018, we could see similar levels of supply however we do expect a thinner buyer pool. Sydney will remain the defensive location with population growth fueling investment demand.” 
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. Katy Dean is Associate Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Research &amp; Consultancy</a> and Steven Lerche is National Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/sales-and-investment/retail-investments.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Retail Investments</a>. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au" target="_blank">savills.com.au</a>.
</body></html>

NSW & QLD front runners as Australian retail sales volumes reach 10 year high: Savills

<html><body>
Property tycoon John Gandel has lost his case seeking to claw back $20 million in his dispute with the Chadstone Shopping Centre retailer Myer.
It alleged there had been a mistake in the drafting of the variable outgoings provisions in the lease for Myer Chadstone.  
It was alternatively suggested there that those provisions have been misinterpreted.
The variable outgoings covered payments such as council and water rates, land tax, building insurance and property management fees. 
ASX-listed Vicinity Centres said it was "disappointed" by the decision and advised it was "considering its options".
"The Supreme Court of Victoria handed down judgment in favour of Myer and dismissed the claims made by the landlord," it said in a statement to the market. 
Vicinity recently advised the portfolio valuation increase of $324.1 million or 12.1% uplift in its investment in Chadstone Shopping Centre.
Chadstone was independently valued at $6 billion with the capitalisation rate firming from 4.25% to 3.75%.
It advised Chadstone continues to trade strongly following completion of the $666 million (Vicinity share: $333 million) major development in June 2017. 
The case resulted in an 84 page judgement in the Victorian Supreme Court with Justice Clyde Croft rejecting the claims made by the joint owner of Chadstone for rectification of the lease and payment of alleged unpaid outgoings between 2000 and 2016 totalling $19.14 million, plus GST, interest and costs. 
Justice Croft dismissed the plaintiffs' claims that mistakes in the lease contained "infelicities or absurdities" that resulted in underpayment by Myer and misinterpretations that needed rectification.
He also dismissed claims there could have been "incompetence, and possible negligence" by eight experienced lawyers and property professionals that drew up the original lease. 
"There is, in my opinion, simply no basis for supposing such endemic incompetence or negligence on the part of these apparently relevantly skilled and experienced individuals," Justice Croft ruled. 
The action was brought by fund manager Perpetual, acting as a custodian for Gandel Management, and Bridgehead, the landlord of Myer Chadstone.
The original negotiations took place nearly three decades ago.
Witnesses' recollections of at least 14 drafts exchanged between various parties were "sporadic and hazy, as would be expected", the judge noted.
The lease was executed in September 2001 and the plaintiffs discovered the mistake 11 years later.  
Myer did lose its defence that the legal action was disallowed by the statute of limitations.
</body></html>

John Gandel loses $20 million Myer recoupment case

<html><body>
The Lightingales retail premises in Claremont, Western Australia, has sold for $3.05 million within 24 hours of being listed for sale through Savills.
Agent Barney Dear brokered the deal for the showroom at 269 Stirling Highway on behalf of a private investor.
The sale was at a yield of 5.36% and a land rate of $3,011 per square metre.
“Selling this property so quickly from the commencement of its campaign launch is a clear demonstration of the strong demand for well-located leased investments in Perth’s western suburbs,” Dear said.
</body></html>

Lightingales, Claremont premises quickly switches owners through Savills

<html><body>
The latest update of Pyrmont-Ultimo Cityscope shows an annual total sales figure of $1.335 billion for the year ending January 2018, with 120 sales recorded over that period.
It was a large increase from the previous 12 months ending January 2017, during which 165 sales were recorded with a total value of $216.3 million.
The table below shows sales recorded for the last eight updates of Pyrmont-Ultimo Cityscope.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/6/pyrmont%201.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<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/2018/2/6/pyrmont%201.jpg" alt="">
There was a significant decrease in total sales value in the most recent quarter, with a total of 27 sales at a value of $43.6 million, compared to 34 sales at a total value of $406.9 million for the quarter ending October 2017.
Recent notable sales include:
<ul>
<li>142-152 Broadway, Chippendale, a one-storey rendered brick commercial building and a parking lot for 7 vehicles, was bought at auction as a development site for $21 million through Colliers International and Ray White Commercial.;</li>
<li>Lot 46, Sydney Wharf at 56 Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, a two-storey commercial suite comprising 11 sqm on level 1 and 103 sqm on level 2 in the berthing building, was bought with a 17 sqm car space plus 8 marina berths and 2 secure basement car spaces with storage (not cover by Pyrmont-Ultimo Cityscope),  for $4.35 million through Knight Frank Sydney and</li>
<li>Lot 14 at 53-55 Glebe Point Road, Glebe, a retail area of 326 sqm on the ground floor, was bought for $3.875 million through Burgess Rawson.</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/2018/2/6/pyrmont%202.jpg" alt="">
There are several properties listed as for sale in January including:
<ul>
<li>423-427 Harris Street, Ultimo, three two-storey terrace houses used as student accommodation and 617 Harris Street, Ultimo, a three-storey terrace originally built in 1881 and refurbished in 2013 and used as a medium-term tourist accommodation, are for sale in one line through Karbon Property – Sydney; and</li>
<li>451 Harris Street, Ultimo, a two-storey building built 1880 comprising of a ground floor retail showroom and residential on upper floor, for sale with an asking price of $1,650,000 through McGrath Commercial and Metro Commercial.</li>
</ul>
Cityscope also advised leasing opportunities including:
<ul>
<li>31-35 Bank Street, Ultimo, a one-and-two-storey office and warehouse building with an apron and a loading dock to Bank Street with 13 undercover car park and outdoor parking for 20 vehicles, has office space of 800 to 1,555 sqm for lease through Ray White Commercial; </li>
<li>Ultimo Trade Centre at 28-48 Wattle Street, Ultimo, a five-storey brick Federation-style warehouse building connected to a two-storey brick warehouse building, has warehouse space ranging from 100 to 2,000 sqm for lease through DJ Wear &amp; Associates-Sydney and </li>
<li>80 Bay Street, Ultimo, a four-storey federation warehouse building with four ground floor retail tenancies and offices on the upper levels refurbished in late 2017, has office space ranging from 1,100 to 2,700 sqm for lease through Ray White Commercial.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Pyrmont-Ultimo commercial sales top $1.3 billion over the last year

<html><body>
The Whitsundays Island Hayman is set to be rebranded an InterContinental Resort after its previous operator, the Kerzner Group’s high-profile One&amp;Only Group, cut ties with the island’s owner.
Hayman Island will be rebranded an InterContinental Resort when it reopens after a massive renovation due to the damage sustained from Cyclone Debbie.
It is currently accepting reservations from 1st March 2019 but hopes to be welcoming guests from late 2018.
The high-profile Great Barrier Reef resort had been rebranded a One&amp;Only resort in 2014 amid much fanfare following an $80 million refurbishment.
Hayman Island’s owner, ­Malaysian conglomerate Mulpha Australia, offered up the management rights to its portfolio last year.
The Australian reported three parties were short-listed for the prized management rights to its four eastern seaboard hotels and resorts.
The American hotel giant Marriott was among the short-listed, but incumbent operator IHG successfully won the rights to the Mulpha properties and will continue to operate the Sydney and Sanctuary Cove resort hotels under the InterContinental brand.
Mulpha’s Rydges Hotel in Cairns would remain under a Rydges hotel.
</body></html>

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News