<p>Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.</p>

<p>The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.</p>

<p>Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]</p>

<p>The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.</p>

<p>Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.</p>

<p>All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]</p>

<p>Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.</p>

<p>The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]</p>


Joel Robinson

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

<p data-end="150" data-start="66">A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.</p>

<p data-end="370" data-start="152">Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.</p>

<p data-end="370" data-start="152">The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.</p>

<p data-end="370" data-start="152"><img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" /></p>

<p data-end="745" data-start="537">“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.</p>

<p data-end="912" data-start="747">“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”</p>

<p data-end="1185" data-start="914">Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.</p>

<p data-end="1270" data-start="1187">The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.</p>

<p data-end="1270" data-start="1187"><img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" /></p>

<p data-end="1467" data-start="1272">St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.</p>

<p data-end="1635" data-start="1469">More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.</p>

<p data-end="1635" data-start="1469">NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.</p>

<p>They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.</p>

<p>The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.</p>

<p>Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.</p>

<p>Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]</p>

<p>Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.</p>

<p>“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.</p>

<p>Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]</p>

<p>Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.</p>

<p>“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]</p>

<p>Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]</p>


Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

<p>Breaking into the Sydney property market has long felt out of reach for many first home buyers, particularly as median house prices sit above $1.6 million and unit prices push beyond $900,000.</p>

<p>But entry points still exist in pockets of Greater Western Sydney, where pricing, government incentives, and product mix are aligning to make ownership more attainable.</p>

<p>Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.</p>

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

<p>Sydney is expensive, but it isn’t uniformly expensive. The Greater Parramatta region continues to offer comparatively accessible entry points, particularly for buyers open to alternative configurations like studios.</p>

<p>There's an assumption that a first home needs to be a certain size, that anything smaller than a one-bedder is a concession rather than a choice. That assumption doesn't hold up against what well-designed studios in the right location actually offer: immediate liveability, strong urban amenity, and a price point that makes the deposit target realistic rather than theoretical.</p>

<p>At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-249-259-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>'s multi-award winning precinct in Merrylands, studio apartments are unlike the typical studio configuration.</p>

<p>Starting from $498,000, the bedroom is fully enclosed, separated from the living area by a cavity sliding door, creating a genuinely private sleeping space that functions more like a one-bedroom apartment than a traditional open-plan studio.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]</p>

<p>At 42 sqm internally, with an open-plan kitchen, built-in robes, modern bathroom, and separate laundry, the apartments are designed for everyday liveability rather than short-term use.</p>

<p>With a five per cent deposit under the Federal Government's First Home Guarantee, that equates to a deposit of around $24,200, achievable for many first home buyers without the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.</p>

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

<p>For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.</p>

<p>Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Purchase price:</strong> $498,000</li>
	<li><strong>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee):</strong> ~$24,900</li>
	<li><strong>Loan amount:</strong> ~$473,100</li>
	<li><strong>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term):</strong> ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li><strong>Estimated rental return:</strong> $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li><strong>Rental yield:</strong> 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

<p>At this level, the gap between renting and owning is relatively narrow, particularly when factoring in long-term equity, with rental returns also making the apartments a viable option for investors.</p>

<p>The rental range reflects current asking rents for remaining studio stock in the development and, based on prevailing asking prices, equates to an indicative gross rental yield of up to 6.47 per cent.</p>

<p>For buyers seeking more internal space, Mason &amp; Main also offers a range of one-bedroom apartments from $629,000, alongside larger one-bedroom plus multipurpose room configurations priced from $680,000 - all priced under $800,000 and eligible for first home buyer incentives.</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Purchase price:</strong> $629,000</li>
	<li><strong>20 per cent deposit:</strong> ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li><strong>Loan amount 80%:</strong> ~$503,200</li>
	<li><strong>Estimated mortgage repayment:</strong> ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li><strong>Estimated rental return:</strong> $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li><strong>Rental yield:</strong>&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

<p>One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.<span style="font-size:small"><span style="color:#222222"><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><span style="font-style:normal"><span style="font-variant-ligatures:normal"><span style="font-weight:400"><span style="white-space:normal"><span style="background-color:#ffffff"><span style="text-decoration-thickness:initial"><span style="text-decoration-style:initial"><span style="text-decoration-color:initial">&nbsp;</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]</p>

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

<p>Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.</p>

<p>At Mason &amp; Main, studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible buyers to access a full stamp duty exemption under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.</p>

<p>On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.</p>

<p>Combined with the First Home Guarantee, which enables purchases with as little as a five per cent deposit, the total capital required to secure a home is significantly reduced compared to traditional lending pathways.</p>

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

<p>For first home buyers who want to move sooner rather than later, Mason &amp; Main removes one of the more common pain points from the purchase process entirely. The development is already complete and move-in ready, meaning buyers can walk through the apartments, inspect the finishes, and have full certainty about what they're purchasing before signing anything.</p>

<p>Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The project's design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design," Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]</p>

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

<p>Beyond the apartment itself, the surrounding infrastructure matters, particularly for a first purchase. Merrylands Station sits 350 metres from the development, putting the Parramatta CBD a five-minute drive away and the Sydney CBD roughly 25 minutes via the Western Line. Directly across the road is Stockland <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, one of Greater Western Sydney's major retail centres.</p>

<p>At street level, Mason &amp; Main's own retail and dining precinct has more than 30 tenants trading, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. Residents also have access to a resort-style pool, a Technogym-equipped gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views across Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains, all exclusive to the building.</p>

<p>Due to the mix of configurations, including studios which are rarely offered in today's new apartment market, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 90 per cent sold.</p>

<p>Coronation Property Managing Director Joe Nahas says the development is driving a revitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments in the area.</p>

<p>Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: Mortgage repayment figures are estimates only, based on a 6.29 per cent variable rate over a 30-year term (Canstar, April 2026). Pricing and rental estimates are indicative and based on current listings and project information. Gross yield figures are indicative and derived from asking prices and estimated rental ranges. Stamp duty savings are indicative only. Buyers should seek independent financial and legal advice before proceeding.</em></p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]</p>


How first home buyers can enter the Sydney property market for under $500k

<p data-end="390" data-start="110">Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.</p>

<p data-end="514" data-start="392">In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.</p>

<p data-end="676" data-start="516">Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.</p>

<p data-end="983" data-start="678">Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.</p>

<p data-end="1188" data-start="985">At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.</p>

<p data-end="1188" data-start="985">[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]</p>

<p data-end="1524" data-start="1190">Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.</p>

<p data-end="1524" data-start="1190">Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.</p>

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

<p data-end="464" data-start="214">Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.</p>

<p data-end="631" data-start="466">The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.</p>

<p data-end="703" data-start="633">[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368157]</p>

<p data-end="834" data-start="705">“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.</p>

<p data-end="1085" data-start="836">“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”</p>

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

<p data-end="1262" data-start="1126">That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.</p>

<p data-end="1459" data-start="1264">Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.</p>

<p data-end="1564" data-start="1461">SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.</p>

<p data-end="1723" data-start="1566">“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.</p>

<p data-end="1888" data-start="1725">“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”</p>

<p data-end="2082" data-start="1890">Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.</p>

<p data-end="2264" data-start="2084">That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.</p>

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

<p data-end="2486" data-start="2291">Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.</p>

<p data-end="2588" data-start="2488">One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.</p>

<p data-end="2720" data-start="2590">“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.</p>

<p data-end="2851" data-start="2722">“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”</p>

<p data-end="2962" data-start="2853">For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.</p>

<p data-end="3202" data-start="2964">“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”</p>

<p data-end="3279" data-start="3204">Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.</p>

<p data-end="3537" data-start="3281">“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”</p>

<p data-end="3692" data-start="3539">Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.</p>


Coronation champions terraces as a key piece of Sydney’s housing mix

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><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" /></p>

<p>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.<span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><span><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" /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span><span><span><span><span><span>​</span></span></span></span></span></span></p>

<p>The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.</p>


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

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<p><em>Hi Margaret, my wife &amp; I live on 50 acres we bought the property 20 years ago , built a house &amp; lived in since. We have 10 cows which we make a little money on each year &amp; is the only income of the property. Our main income is away from the property (apart from the office &amp; shed) my question is would we be CGT exempt because we use the other 45 acres for farming, although it's not our main source of income?</em></p>
<p>Answer:<br><br>The answer to this question has many parts and depends on a number of circumstances, and so I checked with Property Success tax expert Ian Rodrigues to see what he thought about it.<br><br>The first this to check is the actual date that you purchased the property.  It appears to be after they introduced the Capital Gains Tax rules but that is worth checking first as if it was before, then everything changes.  It's also important to know if you bought the property or if it was passed to you, perhaps through an inheritance as this impacts as well.<br><br>The Principal Place of residence exemption should apply to the house and surrounding land up 2 hectares (about 5 acres). You mention an office and shed - were these rented out, or did you use them for conducting any kind of business, and subsequently claim any proportional deduction on them?  If you did then this will mean that a part of your principal place of residence will be considered to be liable for capital gains tax and this will need to be established.<br><br>The rest of the land outside the 5 acres are subject to CGT regardless of how they were used. There are major issues to consider here in regard to:-<br><br>        1. was farming a business for tax (and so, what went into your tax returns?). Small business CGT concessions could apply here and<br>        2. what is the valuation split of PPOR and acres? Sometimes the house is the substantial part of these acres and therefore carry the much of the value of the entire block, and at other times the acres are prime land and therefore make up a substantial part of the calculations. <br><br>Your situation is a little complicated,  and it is absolutely critical that you get advice based on all the facts of this situation. Although the outcome may end up the same, you need some serious planning put in place, as you may have access to small business CGT rules and super rollover rules too. </p>
<p><span>Have a property question? </span><span><em> </em><a href="mailto:%20&lt;script%20type='text/javascript'&gt;%20/n%20&lt;/script&gt;&lt;script%20type='text/javascript'&gt;%20%20&lt;/script&gt;This%20email%20address%20is%20being%20protected%20from%20spambots.%20You%20need%20JavaScript%20enabled%20to%20view%20it.%20&lt;script%20type='text/javascript'&gt;%20%20&lt;/script&gt;" target="_blank"><span><em>Ask Margaret!</em></span></a></span></p>
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mlomas-KC9MUPZ6Ca

CGT exemption and farmland: Ask Margaret

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<div>It's the end of financial year!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was a really strong finish to the year for share markets today, closing up by 1.8 percent. However, the Aussie stock markets finished the financial year down by an underwhelming 4.1 percent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>With the tax year now having come to an end, it will soon be time to lodge those tax returns.  </div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Holiday homes under scrutiny this year</span></strong></div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></strong></div>
<div>Last year, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) designed and implemented new compliance strategies for foreign investors in Australian property, including stakeholder engagement (with advisers, agents, and associations), improved data matching, and a broad investigation strategy into illegal foreign purchases.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>This year - as well as those claiming excessive work-related expenses such as travel expenses, self-education, uniform, mobile phone, and internet costs – it is resident Australians with rental properties that are more likely to be under scrutiny from the ATO at tax time - in particular those will holiday homes.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>During the past year ATO Commissioners have advised Farifax Media and SBS News that they have been in contact with thousands of owners of rental properties in order to clarify their entitlements or request clarification about claims that they've made. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The ATO has further reportedly sent correspondence to some holiday home owners recommending that they "review the nature of their claims" before dropping in their next returns...oops!<br><br>
</div>
<div>With well over 2 million Australians lodging tax returns declaring ownership of a rental property - spread widely across all income brackets – the landlord sector is substantial, and there are potentially significant liabilities to be raised by the ATO.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Click to enlarge</div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/07/01/ATO1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Owners of holiday homes should take a good deal of care not to make claims for net rental losses for periods when their property has not actually been made available for rent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In particular owners of holiday homes claiming deductions for a full year when the property has been vacant for long periods might expect to get a tap on the shoulder from the tax office.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>According to ATO legislation the principles that apply to a rental property also apply to a holiday home if it is rented out - if you rent out your holiday home, you can claim expenses for the property based on the proportion of the income year it was rented out or was genuinely available for rent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>However, if a holiday home is advertised in ways that limit its exposure to potential tenants, then the property may not be deemed “genuinely available” for rent – for example, if the property is not widely advertised, or if the advertised rents are set at unrealistically high levels.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Since the ATO’s interest was flagged some months ago, net rental losses declared or claimed on holiday homes could be lower this year as this loophole is sewn up...</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Airbnb </em>and online networks</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>There may also be some confusion relating to the rise of online networks such as <em>Airbnb</em>, with more Australians than ever before choosing to rent out their own homes, or a part of their homes. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Remember, rental income is assessable and therefore you may have tax to pay at year end - don't try to be sneaky and under-report rental income it or you may be penalised! </div>
<div> </div>
<div>For <em>Airbnb</em> hosts there are two types of allowable deductions. Firstly, there are costs directly associated with generating rental income or with the rental area (for eaxample, photography, commercial cleaning costs, food for tenants, <em>Airbnb</em> fees and commissions, or food made available to tenants). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>And secondly there are costs which may be apportioned, often based upon the applicable floor area, including your mortgage or rent, utilities, internet and phone costs, insurance, and so on.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Keep records and receipts through the financial year and make sure you set aside some money for the tax liability!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Also, be aware of the potential legal and liability risks or short term tenancies and other tax implications thereof, such as capital gains tax (the principal place of residence is normally exempt, but generating rental income from the home may trigger a change in this status).  </div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Repairs and maintenance</span></strong></div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></strong></div>
<div>There is also often genuine confusion for some property investors over what deductions can be claimed.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Perhaps the most common mistake made by landlords on lodged tax returns is claiming deductions for repairs and maintenance for expenses which are actually capital costs. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Property investors are not allowed to claim repairs and maintenance deductions for defects or pre-existing damage that was in evidence at the time they acquired the property. Such improvements are considered to be capital in nature.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Where investors are unsure they would be well advised to check the rules relating to deductions made available by the ATO for free online, or to engage a tax agent or property specialist tax accountant that is familiar with the rules. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Net rental losses declining</span></strong></div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span></strong></div>
<div>Declared net rental losses have declined sharply in recent times, falling by more than half over the last two tax years for which data is available, largely due to lower interest rates. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The average net loss claimed by investors has fallen by 64 per cent since 2008 as mortgage repayments have become cheaper. These figures will continue to decline in 2015 and 2016 with interest rates having fallen.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/07/01/NG.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/07/01/NG.jpg" alt=""></div>
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<div>While the ATO will doubtless generally be looking for expenses claimed in error as part of their investigative reviews or audits, it is worth noting that many investors also fail to claim deductions which they are entitled to. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/07/01/NG2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/07/01/NG2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>In particular, not all owners of rental properties are aware of the potentially generous capital allowances and tax depreciation deductions for plant and equipment which are available under the tax legislation.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>If you are in doubt, a property specialist tax accountant can help you to avoid making costly mistakes!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Tips and traps for property investors: Pete Wargent

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<p>Australia is a nation full of highly confused real estate consumers. They’re befuddled because there is so much conflicting data on matters relating to residential property, especially on prices.</p>
<p>The confusion arises because of the widespread acceptance of anything labeled “research” as fact. Media these days is driven by under-resourced journalists and there’s a growing tendency to recycle press releases as articles, without the scrutiny that once was common in the industry.</p>
<p>Back in the day, publishing a press release (which, by definition, is someone’s propaganda) verbatim was a sacking offence. These days it’s mainstream journalism, especially in real estate. Most of the online “news” services that send out daily bulletins consist almost entirely of contributed material. The journalistic content is close to zero. </p>
<p>Any press release from a name research company featuring price data will be published without question. If the press release says Sydney prices are still soaring, that will be the headline in multiple media outlets, including some of our biggest newspapers.</p>
<p>The problem is that price statistics are often very rubbery figures. One of the ways we know this is by comparing price data from multiple sources. The differences and contradictions are quite stark. </p>
<p>Recently I wrote a report which focused on the latest price data for the eight capital cities from four different research sources. The areas where they disagreed were far more numerous than the ones where they were broadly in concert.</p>
<p>Two sources claimed Sydney prices were still growing at an annual rate around 11 percent, while the other two said the annual growth rate was down to 1.2 percent and 2.6 percent.</p>
<p>One source said Darwin house prices were unchanged while another recorded an 8 percent decline. Two sources said Canberra apartment prices were rising and the other two reported they were falling. All four agreed that Darwin apartment prices were falling but the rate of decline ranged from 0.2 percent to almost 10 percent.</p>
<p>Annual price growth for Melbourne houses ranged from 7 percent to 15 percent. One said the capital city average was 2.7 percent annual growth in house prices while another claimed it was 8.2 percent.</p>
<p>There are myriad other examples.</p>
<p>We know that different research companies have different methodologies and parameters, but consumers are entitled to think that the movement of prices in a particular location is a mater of fact: when media reports one week that they’re rising and the next that they’re falling, confusion is understandable.</p>
<p>It seems no one in media has noticed the discrepancies.</p>
<p>And now we have the Reserve Bank revealing that it disregarded price data from one of its regular sources. Apparently a change in methodology resulted in the research entity overstating price growth in Sydney and Melbourne.</p>
<p>At the time those figures were published, I challenged them because I thought they were clearly wrong. They contradicted known trends in the market and also conflicted with data from other more credible sources. </p>
<p>But media outlets across the nation published those erroneous figures as fact. There were numerous headlines declaring the fading Sydney boom had been reactivated somehow, miraculously, in contradiction of all previous data.</p>
<p>Inevitably this was accompanied by observers shouting about bubbles, affordability crises and young Australians priced out of the market, doomed to a lifetime of renting.</p>
<p>Worse, one of the big-name global ratings agencies rushed out a warning about the re-inflation of the Australian house price bubble, based purely on a single month’s price figures from one research source. It says something about the credibility of the ratings organisation that the basis for them issuing international press statements was so flimsy.</p>
<p>The message for real estate consumers is to take real estate statistics with several grains of salt. It’s alarming how many people base investment decisions on published data from a single source, reported verbatim by an unquestioning media.</p>
<p>Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a></p>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Property price statistics are often rubbery figures: Terry Ryder

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<p>This week I sat around a table with a group of very important people.  What made them so important? </p>
<p>Well, with input from these particular people we could make a massive difference in the result of this property development.</p>
<p>We were meeting to brainstorm the best way to plan, design and build six villas on a 2000sqm block of land that I had sourced for my client.</p>
<p>The land we’d sourced is located in the Lower Hunter Region. The main economic driver for this suburb was a fairly recently opened expressway that now connected it with Newcastle and other major metro areas where employment opportunities lay. The city in which we will build has been awarded the accolade of the fastest growing inland town in NSW.</p>
<p>Ok back to the meeting.  The most important person there was our client, let’s just call him Jim. Whilst obviously important to me, he should be congratulated for taking on what is a very exciting property development. Jim has vision and can see the potential that I do in this project. Jim has a clear strategy; to create wealth through developing property as quickly as he can. </p>
<p>He understands he has a set number of years before he retires and he doesn’t want to muck around. This is Jim’s second development with Property Bloom so he is well on his way. If all goes to plan (which is what the meeting was about) Jim will come out with a very handsome amount of equity that will be created through the development process. He could use this to pay down any personal debt and continue to build his property portfolio.</p>
<p>Also at the meeting was our town planning consultant. This man has invaluable experience working with the local council and gave us a clear strategy on how to tackle the Development Application (DA). This was not straight forward as we need to consider the lending criteria and stage the DA in the correct way so it can be financed. </p>
<p>Next to him was our architect. When I met him, I was impressed to find out he used to be a carpenter.  This meant he had actually worked on a building site! </p>
<p>This is a rare find, so I immediately thought he was pretty important.</p>
<p>Our builder has been in the game for over 20 years and bought along his construction manager who is very experienced and managers all the builder’s projects. I thought this was a great initiative as this guy is going to be directly overseeing our build, so what a great idea to include him at the design stage.  I’m sure he’ll take more ownership having been involved at this early level.</p>
<p>Also in attendance was the builder’s senior estimator who is the man who prices every aspect of the project, every square and lineal meter of it...so very important to have him there as he could tells us the areas where the big costs lay.</p>
<p>The final person was one of my project managers who had managed many projects not just for Property Bloom but for other builders so he has a strong understanding of the way builders work and also in the planning phases. </p>
<p>I had called the meeting as we had just received a price back from the builder on our initial concept plan and we wanted to see how we could bring down the costs to increase the profit.</p>
<p>The architect, construction manager and the estimator started bouncing off each other on the engineering of the two double story villas, was there a way to decrease the metal beams required? </p>
<p>Did we need double story? Yes.  </p>
<p>We were happy with the floor plan design of the villas, so our focus switched to the site levels and the extent of the retaining required. There was some fall on the land which meant the development would be stepped. It wasn’t long before an agreement was made to minimise the height of the walls so that they didn’t need to be engineered instead by clever slab design and site preparation.</p>
<p>We talked about the best and most cost effective way to subdivide the villas with the planning consultant and then discussed maximising the street appeal and front façades of the villas.</p>
<p>The table was buzzing and I found myself quietly reflecting on how lucky I was to do this for a job. I loved the interaction between my team and pondered on the value of the accumulated expertise of the people I had on my side. </p>
<p>We left the meeting on the final note of an amount that we’d be happy to wipe off the costs; the architect would proceed with more detailed plans and work with the estimator to ensure he had the details to deliver the next round of costings.  The solutions that were found in that one hour meeting are very exciting. </p>
<p>Every property development needs a good team. So don’t try and tackle it all on your own. As Oprah says, you can be lifted higher by others, so get yourself a group of experts that you can rely on and enjoy the process.</p>
<p><em><em>Jo Chivers is chief executive officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a><a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">.</a></em></em></p>
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Use the property development experience of others: Jo Chivers

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<div id="post-body-1153754225725279273" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>According to the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) the significant investor visa (SIV) programme is designed to be:</div>
<div> </div>
<div><em>"...a pathway to provide for significant migrant investment into Australia under the Business Innovation and Investment visa programme".</em></div>
<div> </div>
<div>From the inception of the SIV programme in November 2012 until 30 June 2015 there had been some 2,573 applications lodged, but only 879 visas actually granted.</div>
<br><a href="/images/2016/08/30/SIV2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content">
<img src="/images/2016/08/30/SIV2.jpg" alt=""><br><span><br></span><span>There can necessarily be a lag between application lodgement and visas being granted.</span><br><span><br></span><span>The service standard is 6 to 9 months for the Business Innovation and Investment category.</span><br><div> </div>
<div>The latest available statistics from the DIBP showed that 495 of the outstanding applications lodged prior to 1 July 2015 have now been granted.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A further 20 applications lodged after 1 July 2015 have also been granted in the financial year to 31 May 2016.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>This means that the May 2016 figures recorded a total of 515 SIVs issued for the 11 months for the financial year to date.</div>
<br><div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/08/30/SIV1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/08/30/SIV1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator">The geographically segmented figures show that high net worth applicants are overwhelmingly focused on Melbourne, and then Sydney...with daylight third. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">This reflects that Melbourne and to a somewhat lesser extent Sydney have been the two key destinations and markets of interest for Chinese investors since around 2012.</div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">Indeed, the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) Annual Report showed that real estate applications tripled in two years, driven overwhelmingly by a deluge of Chinese investors into Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">The DIBP statistics for the top five source countries correspondingly show that more than 90 per cent of applicants for SIVs have also been Chinese. </div>
<br><div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/08/30/SIV3.jpg" target="_blank"> Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/08/30/SIV3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The wrap</span></strong><br><br><div>Since the commencement of the significant investor visa programme in 2012 there have now been a total of 1,397 SIVs granted, leading to just a shade under A$7 billion of investment in complying assets.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It's difficult to say what the expected take-up for the SIV ever really was, but fewer than 1,400 visas sounds suspiciously like a fizzer of an initiative to me (albeit the composition and destination of applicants says something of note about where capital invested in Australia is coming from and where it is headed to).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Previously SIV investors were opting to drop money into passive investments such as qualifying government bonds and residential real estate schemes - not really what Australia needs more of, tbh! - which led to a much-needed reassessment of the requirements for complying investments.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Unfortunately interest in SIVs has been dampened since, following consultation with stakeholders, the rules were amended to require a greater share of the $5 million required investment to hit up venture capital products (at least 10 per cent) and emerging companies (minimum 30 per cent), investments that are typically associated with a higher risk of loss, whether perceived or real.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/08/30/DIBP.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/08/30/DIBP.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Source: DIBP</em></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div>The most timely available statistics for expressions of interest, invitations, and applications lodged suggest only a modest ongoing flow of interest in the SIV.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Requiring wealthy Chinese with A$5 million to invest in venture capital projects and emerging companies is a fabulous idea...on paper.<br><br>In reality, however, this may be too ambitious and result in the killing off of SIV applications given that wealthy foreigners are unlikely to be familiar with the products and ventures in question, and therefore remain understandably reluctant to commit.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It wouldn't be a surprise to see the rules amended again or relaxed to allow Chinese investors to provide project funding (not passive investment) for residential and commercial real estate developments, or for infrastructure projects.</div>
<div> </div>
</div>
<div class="post-footer"> 
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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Slow take up of Significant Investor Visa: Pete Wargent 

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<p>The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) released its June 2016 quarter property exposures data earlier this week. </p>
<p>The data looks at exposure to the property market by Australian Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions (ADI).  It’s valuable because it provides deeper insight into lending from mortgage lenders which isn’t available from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) monthly housing finance data.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-1-3-580x206.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-1-3-580x206.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>At the end of the June 2016 quarter, across all Australian ADI’s, there was $1.437 billion in outstanding residential mortgages to households. </p>
<p>The value of outstanding mortgages has increased by 8.1 percent year-on-year, which is the slowest year-on-year growth rate since the June 2014 quarter. </p>
<p>Outstanding mortgages include $930.4 billion outstanding to owner occupiers and $506.3 billion outstanding to investors. </p>
<p>The value of owner occupier mortgages has increased by 14.8 percent year-on-year, its largest rise since March 2010. </p>
<p>The value of investor mortgages outstanding has fallen by -2.4 percent year-on-year, its greatest decline on record. </p>
<p>To put the investor lending slowdown into perspective, 12 months ago investor mortgage credit had increased by 12.7 percent.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-2-3-580x204.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-2-3-580x204.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Taking a look at potentially higher risk forms of lending, in June 2016 there was $557.0 billion in outstanding mortgage credit for interest-only mortgages, $2.753 billion for reverse mortgages, $24.7 billion for low-documentation mortgages and $1.0 billion in other non-standard mortgages. </p>
<p>Almost two-fifths of the value of outstanding mortgages (39.3 percent) is for interest-only mortgages. </p>
<p>Year-on-year there have been increases in the value of mortgage credit for interest-only (+7.7 percent) and reverse mortgages (+1.8 percent) while credit for low-documentation (-16.2 percent) and other non-standard loans (-8.5 percent) has fallen.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-3-3-580x203.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-3-3-580x203.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The average outstanding mortgage balance was $252,100 which was 4.5 percent higher over the year to June 2016. </p>
<p>Across the different mortgage types the average outstanding balances were recorded at: $308,000 for loans with an offset, $335,200 for interest-only loans, $97,400 for reverse mortgages, $191,000 for low-documentation loans and $191,900 for other non-standard loans.    </p>
<p>The average balances have increased over the year for loans with an offset (+4.4 percent), interest-only mortgages (+4.6 percent) and reverse mortgages (+2.7 percent) and fallen for low-documentation loans (-1.2 percent) and other non-standard loans (-2.2 percent).</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-4-1-580x210.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-4-1-580x210.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking at new lending over the June 2016 quarter, there was $98.4 billion in new mortgage lending, $64.4 billion of which was for owner occupiers and $34.0 billion for investors.  It was a record quarter with the value of lending 20.7 percent higher over the quarter and 2.1 percent higher year-on-year. </p>
<p>Over the quarter the value of lending to owner occupiers rose by 15.2 percent while investor lending jumped 32.5% to its highest level since June 2015. </p>
<p>Year-on-year owner occupier lending is 16.2 percent higher while investor lending is -16.9 percent lower. While investment lending has certainly increased of late, it is difficult to know exactly how much is being driven by more volume and how much is being driven by borrowers taking out larger mortgages.</p>
<p>No data was available this quarter on new low-documentation lending however, there was $35.6 billion in interest-only lending, $136 million in other non-standard loans, $47.4 billion in loans from a third part source $3.5 billion worth of loans approved outside of serviceability. Although new interest-only lending is -19.1 percent lower year-on-year, it increased by 25.1% over the quarter which is in line with the significant jump in new lending to investors. </p>
<p>It was also the largest quarter since June 2015 for other non-standard loans. The $3.5 billion of loans approved outside of serviceability was the lowest since the March 2015 quarter.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-5-1-580x210.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/09/05/Chart-5-1-580x210.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking at the loan-to-value ratios (LVR) on new mortgages over the quarter it is clear that lenders and or borrowers are becoming more conservative and using larger deposits.  Over the quarter, a record-high 78.0 percent of mortgages had an LVR of less than 80% (meaning the borrower had a deposit of at least 20 percent). </p>
<p>Over the quarter the value of lending increased across each of the LVR bands shown however, year-on-year the value of lending for LVRs of less than 60 percent is up 19.2 percent, for LVRs between 60 percent and 80 percent it is -1.1 percent lower, for LVRs between 80 percent and 90 percent it is 6.1 percent higher and for LVRs above 90 percent it is -20.7 percent lower.  Encouragingly, just 8.3 percent of all new mortgages had an LVR of more than 90 percent which is a record-low.</p>
<p>Overall the data shows that there has been a rebound in new lending to investors and a commensurate increase in interest-only lending over the past quarter.  After annual investor housing credit growth has slumped to well below APRA’s 10%pa speed limit it is clear that some lenders have scope to dial-up their lending to investors.  It also shows that despite historically weak rental markets and record low rental yields that there remains demand from the investment segment of the market.</p>
<p>While investment lending has lifted over the past quarter, the data is showing there is a more conservative approach to high LVR lending. The ongoing declines in lending with an LVR above 90 percent is encouraging because it should lead to reduced risk.</p>
<p>Over the coming quarters we’ll be closely watching how much higher investment lending lifts.</p>
<p>Keep in mind that despite record low yields, the returns are still superior to putting money in a term deposit, especially once you factor in the recent capital growth as well. Interest-only lending trends will also be important to watch with APRA already having raised concerns about that particular type of lending.</p>
<p><em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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New lending to investors and interest-only lending jumps over June quarter

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<p>According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) November 2016 building approvals data there were 17,569 houses and units approved for construction across the country over the month. </p>
<p>Based on the seasonally adjusted series, the number of dwelling approvals rose by 7.0 percent over the month due to a substantial rebound in unit approvals.  Despite an increase in approvals in November, they are -4.8 percent lower over the year and are -18.6 percent lower than their peak in October 2015 when 21,588 houses and units were approved.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/09/chart-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/09/chart-1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>In November 2016 there were 9,503 houses and 8,066 units approved for construction throughout the country. Over the month, house approvals fell by -0.4 percent while unit approvals increased 17.3 percent. </p>
<p>Unit approvals tend to be lumpy and volatile, which goes a long way towards explaining the 17.3 percent increase in November following a -20.1 percent decline in September and -22.8 percent fall in October of last year. Year-on-year, houses approved for construction were -2.1 percent lower and unit approvals were down -7.8 percent. </p>
<p>Over the current construction cycle, house approvals peaked at 10,649 in April 2015 and unit approvals peaked at 11,763 over the month of October 2015.  November 2016 house approvals were -10.8 percent lower than the April 2015 peak while unit appears have fallen more dramatically, down -31.4 percent from their October 2015 peak.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/09/chart-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/09/chart-2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking deeper into unit approvals by type, it becomes clear that the surge in new high-rise construction projects has slowed.  This data is split into three segments: townhouses, low-rise units (less than four storeys) and high-rise units (four storeys or higher). </p>
<p>The above chart highlights the volatility in unit approvals and also shows that the recent plunge of unit approvals is being driven by the high-rise unit sector. With ongoing concerns about oversupply of high-rise units in certain inner city markets and slowing value growth for units, it seems that developers are responding by seeking fewer new high-rise unit approvals. Another interesting trend over the past year or so has been the steady upwards trend in townhouse approvals. The substantial increase in high-rise approvals over recent years has occurred at the expense of townhouse and low rise approvals. </p>
<p>With the expected further slowing of high-rise unit approvals there is potential for a lift in townhouse approvals over the coming year.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/09/chart-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/09/chart-3.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/09/chart-4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/09/chart-4.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The two above charts show the proportion of dwelling approvals that were for units.  The data points to the fact that in most capital cities developers have recently slowed their submissions for unit building approvals. As a proportion of all approvals there have been some significant declines in unit approvals in Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Hobart and Darwin over the past six months.</p>
<p>The reality is that this is an appropriate response in most of these cities given how much unit construction has been taking place.</p>
<p>Hobart is the one exception where it could be argued that more unit construction is required, particularly given the booming tourism sector.  Sydney and Canberra have recorded no significant slowdown in unit approvals as a proportion of total approvals over recent months.  Sydney has been approving more units than houses for more than two decades where in most other capital cities the dominance of unit approvals over those for houses is a relatively new phenomena.</p>
<p>Unit approvals are trending lower, particularly for high-rise units, which is an appropriate response so late in the current construction phase. The reality is that at least initially, an increasing proportion of these units approved for construction may not be sold. There remains a substantial pipeline of construction work already underway which should keep residential builders busy for some time. </p>
<p>Should, as we expect, approvals soften further and remain well below their recent heights over the coming years absent a pick-up in non-residential or infrastructure construction, there could be some headwinds for builders and associated businesses. </p>
<p>Housing construction has been a significant driver of economic growth over recent years and a slowdown in this sector could also impact on economic growth over the coming years unless some other large industry segment can pick up the slack. <span> </span></p>
<p><em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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Dwelling approvals bounce in November but don’t expect it to continue: Cameron Kusher

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<div>GUEST OBSERVER</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Australian Finance Group (AFG) released its index for the final quarter of 2016, reporting more than $15 billion in mortgage lodgement volume.</div>
<p><span>The index, which is not seasonally adjusted, rose by 9.9 percent over the year to December.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/12/AFG5.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/12/AFG5.jpg" alt=""><br><br><span>Nationally, the average mortgage size of $488,875 was up from $475,083 from the prior year.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/13/AFG2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/13/AFG2.jpg" alt=""><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br></span></strong></p>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">"Tale of two seaboards"</span></strong></div>
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<div class="separator">Over the year there was strong growth in lodgement volumes in both New South Wales (up 10 per cent) and Queensland (18 per cent), but the real driver of growth was Victoria with a substantial 23 percent rise. </div>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/13/AFG3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<div class="separator"><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/2017/01/13/AFG3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<p><br><span>Offsetting this, investors have backed off from Western Australia and the Northern Territory.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/13/AFG4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a><br><br><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/2017/01/13/AFG4.jpg" alt=""><br><br></p>
<div>In the December quarter the average mortgage size scaled fresh heights in each of the three most populous states. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/13/AFG1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<p><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/2017/01/13/AFG1.jpg" alt=""><br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Investor rebound</span></strong><br><br><span>Finally, the share of AFG's market relating to investors ticked back up to 34 percent.</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/13/AFG6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<div class="separator"><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/2017/01/13/AFG6.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The wrap</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>While activity in South Australia was flat, the weakness of the WA market in 2016 was evident, with the recent introduction of a new first home owners grant in the state designed to combat this. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Loan to value ratios across the year were fairly consistent at around 69 percent, about 0.7 percent lower than in 2015.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Over the year non-major lenders have been pinching market share away from the main players, a trend that AFG expects to continue into the new year as consumers increasingly recognise the potential benefits of using a broker.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><em><span>PETE WARGENT </span>is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. </em></div>
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NSW mortgage size passes $600,000 average: Pete Wargent

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<div>GUEST OBSERVER</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I recently wrote here how it looked as though new home finance had shaped into quite a neat double top formation.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In November, finance for new owner-occupier purchases increased a bit, but overall the trendline does suggest that a second peak is forming. </div>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/23/A1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<div class="separator"><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/2017/01/23/A1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<p><br><span>The slight rebound ties in with the rebound in new home sales in the month, previously noted </span><a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.co.uk/2017/01/new-home-sales-rebound" target="_blank">here</a><span>.</span><br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Mainly investors buying new</span></strong><br><br><span>It's often said that investors mainly invest in established housing, with charts produced to prove it.</span><br><br></p>
<div>Of course, with the total dwelling stock only increasing by less than 2 per cent over the year to September 2016 to 9.76 million, it stands to reason that most investors will buy established - there just aren't that many new properties in any given year. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>I have been more interested to know what percentage of the new housing stock was purchased by owner-occupiers, but nobody I have asked seems to know (or even care about) the answer.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The housing finance figures show that owner-occupiers financed the construction of only 68,200 homes and the purchase of just 31,490 dwellings. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>What the housing finance figures don't capture is that some owner-occupier buyers of new homes are cash buyers.<br><br>But nevertheless, it's clear that largely the buyers of new dwellings are investors, albeit many of them from overseas.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><em><span>PETE WARGENT </span>is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. </em></div>
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New housing finance is topping out: Pete Wargent

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) released lending finance data earlier today and when it is paired with the earlier housing finance data release, the figures provide insight into the value of mortgage lending over the month in each state and territory. </p>
<p>Over recent months investor demand for mortgages has been trending higher and this is being largely driven by resurgent investor demand in New South Wales and Victoria. </p>
<p>Of course the capital cities of these two states have consistently recorded the strongest value growth of all capital cities over the past five years and also have the lowest rental returns.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/25/chart-1-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/25/chart-1-3.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The data analysed is based on the value of mortgage finance commitments. </p>
<p>Given this it is important to consider that more expensive markets (such as NSW) will tend to result in borrowers taking out larger mortgages whereas borrowers in more affordable markets will generally take out smaller mortgages.  More than half of all the mortgage lending to investors in November 2016 was lent in New South Wales and with a further 24.5 percent in Victoria, three quarters of all mortgage lending to investors occurred in the two most populous states.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/25/chart-2-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><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/2017/01/25/chart-2-3.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Looking only at new lending (that is excluding refinances) investors accounted for 56.7% of the value of lending in New South Wales in November 2016.  Looking over the past four years, the value of new lending to investors in New South Wales has been greater than new owner occupier lending for 42 of the past 48 months. </p>
<p>Victoria was previously seeing slightly more than 50% of new lending to investors but was recorded at 45.0% in November 2016.  Across the remaining states and territories, the proportion of total new lending to investors in November 2016 was recorded at: 39.7% in Queensland, 37.1% in South Australia, 31.0% in Western Australia, 26.1% in Tasmania, 40.3% in the Northern Territory and 38.7% in the Australian Capital Territory.</p>
<p>It’s clear that demand for mortgages from the investor segment is picking up, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria, which are proxies for Sydney and Melbourne respectively.  With a low cost of borrowing and many owner occupiers having seen substantial increases in housing equity in Sydney and Melbourne over the past 4.5 years it is easy to understand why investor demand is rising. </p>
<p>On the other side of things, you have a value growth phase that has now run for 4.5 years, largely focussed on two major cities and rental returns at historic low levels in these cities.  Investors should be considering the potential risks, especially as housing supply is responding and that the value growth phase is now quite mature.  While many have seen a substantial increase in the value of properties and may continue to do so, at some point growth will slow. </p>
<p>With record low yields, slow rental growth and additional housing supply entering the market over the coming years, if investors need to start relying on rental returns rather than increase in the asset value, boosting those returns is likely to prove difficult.</p>
<p><em>Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.</em></p>
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