A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

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

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The redevelopment of western Sydney's The Paper Mill by Coronation Property will see the heritage-listed mill building in Liverpool repurposed as an open plan dining venue.
Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property said retailers, overseen by a single operator, can be envisaged as traditional ‘stalls’ which include an artisanal bakery and cafe, a rotisserie, woodfired pizza kitchen, inhouse brewery, private dining and kids play area.
“This space, complete with dessert carts and open fireplaces, will be Liverpool’s destination dining spot – a modern-day bistro that reflects the values of slow living: cultivating community, simplifying our lives and reclaiming time for what matters most,” he said.
“The retail precinct at The Paper Mill will be a vibrant community zone, comprising approximately 1,400 square metres of premium retail space in a contemporary open-plan setting with exposed ceilings and concrete flooring.
“Ultimately, we’d like to emulate the buzzing retail and food culture that areas such as Balmain, Newtown or Surry Hills provide.
The mill building is expected to open by the end of 2017. 
The regeneration of The Paper Mill precinct includes the construction of 882 apartments on the site, across four contemporary buildings – The Paper Mill, The Bindery, The Gild and The Foundry.
Mr Nahas says The Paper Mill will be a significant drawcard for residents of both Liverpool and wider Sydney. 
“The Paper Mill will connect the indoor and outdoor lifestyle that people love, and once it is fully occupied, the precinct will be home to around 3,000 people who will enjoy the amenity on offer, in addition to Liverpool locals and visitors from other parts of Sydney," he said.
“Liverpool already ticks a lot of boxes for infrastructure, and there’s more on the way, with the region set to benefit from $7 billion in infrastructure investment over the coming decade.
“This is why Liverpool is fast shaping up to be one of the most desirable locations for young buyers to live in Sydney.”
The site’s industrial history began in 1864, when The Australian Paper Company purchased 17 acres of the Collingwood estate in Liverpool.
 For more information, <a href="https://liveatthepapermill.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.  
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Open plan dining venue slated for Sydney's heritage mill building

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SPONSORED POST
DPN has launched a range of architecturally designed investment homes, including a dual income property, to be built to a standard that rivals or surpasses owner-occupied homes. 
One of the common issues property investors have when purchasing is that they end up buying a property they don’t actually like.
In an ideal world, investors would buy properties they want to live in. However, more often than not, investors buy houses that are ageing mutton dressed as lamb. This is not through choice but what’s on the market. Perhaps the house has a hideously outdated kitchen, thin layers of paint hiding decades of mould or poorly designed living spaces. Or, as is often the case, they’re project homes, quickly knocked out without thought to form or function.
Investors see these far too often.
Yet it has clearly shown that a high quality, highly livable property will always be a better investment bet for attracting renters. There are a few simple reasons for this. If you love and enjoy the space you live in, you’ll stay there for the long term. This means rental stability. The better the quality home means a better quality renter. Renters who are happy living in a property are more likely to take care of it.
"Renters who are happy living in a property are more likely to take good care of it and stay longer."
Introducing DPN's architecturally designed investment properties
This may sound obvious, yet what has long been missing is a product that can weave together a good liveable environment with one that maximises capital returns. But this has all changed. DPN has created an innovative property that pulls off the rare trick of pleasing both the investor and the renter. It’s called the DPN Casa series. DPN Casa is a range of investment homes that are architecturally designed to a standard that rivals and even surpasses owner-occupied homes. Included in the DPN range is a Designer Series 5 bedroom home and a <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/promo/dual" target="_blank">Dual Income</a> home.
DPN Casa also has owner-occupiers interested offering a boutique alternative to a project home at an affordable price. Owner-occupiers can build DPN Casa properties on their own land.
"What makes these properties stand out is the meticulous thought that has gone into the design. Over two years of careful research and work was spent with architects to come up with a designed home that is universally attractive."
What differentiates them from other project homes on the market?
DPN’s Director of Property, Sean Blattman, explains: “Clean lines, efficient use of space and loads of natural light. Large stacking glazed doors and an excellent interface between indoors and outdoors make them very distinctive from what you find out there. The form and functions of the designs are second to none.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/30/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-30%20at%201.51.19%20PM.png" alt=""> 
<a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au/casa/dual-income" target="_blank">DPN Casa: Dual Income.  One Property.Two Rents™</a>
DPN Casa includes within its range a dual income home.
It’s a sophisticated architectural design that allows for two self-contained residences on the same block of land.  They function as two entirely separate and private dwellings and use the space superbly. These homes are often cash-flow positive by a significant amount from day one of tenancy.
The key point to remember is the painstaking time and effort that has gone into creating these designs. It has also been thought out in terms of a holistic journey for both the renter and the investor. Blattman explains:
“The finished home should complete the property investment journey for a DPN customer. It’s the culmination of a customer experience that begins from the first contact they have with DPN to arranging finance, construction of the home, having it tenanted, then looking forward to the next purchase.”
The homes all come with the usual building guarantees and warranties that are important for project homes. However, this product goes even further to ensure peace of mind. Blattman points out: “We also provide a fixed priced guarantee - that the price will not increase during construction and that everything included is ready for rental, with no surprise costs. DPN also work with builders that provide a fixed build time with liquidated damages if the home is not delivered on time. This varies from 16 - 26 weeks.”
The DPN Dual Income homes can be built in New South Wales and Queensland at this stage, although our coverage is expanding. DPN Dual Income homes are available as a house and land package or as a build on your own land subject to meeting site survey requirements.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/30/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-30%20at%201.52.29%20PM.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au" target="_blank">DPN Casa: Designer Series 5 bedroom home</a>
Visually, the home looks stunning. It has a beautiful flow, uses natural light to its absolute best effect and has an exquisite design that remains efficient in terms of its size. A clever use of space means that although the home is technically using the blueprint of a 4 bedroom house, you end up with a five bedroom home and an additional living area - for a similar price. 
A recent Domain survey found that 71% of Australian renters identify the number of bedrooms in a rental property as one of the most important factors in selecting a home. Ample storage also ranked ninth on the must-have list. The DPN Designer 5 bedroom home has all this and more.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/an-investment-property-you-ll-want-to-live-in" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au" target="_blank">DPN</a>. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

An investment property you’ll want to live in

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Creating a flexible workplace is the key to motivating employees according to CBRE.
CBRE's recent presentation, ‘How to Create a Workplace that Connects Your People and Anchors Your Brand’, discussed the future of office space and the importance of authentic placemaking.
Nicole Fitzgerald, CBRE’s Director of Workplace Strategies said flexible working and mobility was predicted to be the biggest disruptor for how businesses operate leading up to 2020.
“Flexibility is resonating with staff and this is impacting how and where people choose to work. We need our talent to choose our office because they know they will perform better, form better relationships and can influence decisions,” she said.
Rhian Windridge, of CBRE’s APAC Project Management team noted that what companies are doing in their workplace has become part of their corporate identity and vital to attracting and retaining top industry talent.
“When a group of executives were surveyed, the top source of competitive advantage was attraction and retention of top talent, and what we have found is that retention is higher in areas with strong placemaking elements,” she said.
“As a result, we have seen a major shift towards companies utilising brand storytelling through place, as it allows staff to relate and connect meaningfully with their workplace.
"Placemaking elements have the ability to express to people what the brand’s identity means and allows staff to experience what the company is achieving.
“Connecting staff through food and hospitality facilities, creative and collaborative areas, embedding wellness into the company’s culture using space and incorporating green space are all strategies that enable staff to respond positively to their workplace.
“Offices facilitate the coming together of different businesses lines to be inspired and reenergised.
"People do their best work when they come together – so there will always be a need.
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The future of offices lies in the power of placemaking

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Renovating properties in Tasmania is becoming more popular, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that Hobart and Launceston are where renovation work is the highest.
“Throughout the Tasmanian property market renovation is a popular pastime, as many houses and units have become dated and in need of an update.
“With the increase in demand for properties throughout the greater Hobart and Launceston regions, we are seeing many home owners who are looking to place their property on the market, either renovating their property prior to sale, or placing it on the market with an advertisement description outlining the property’s renovation potential for both the investor or owner-occupier.
“The term flipping properties has also become quite common in our market.
“Many property investors are looking to make a quick profit from purchasing a property with the intention to renovate over a six to 12 month period, then placing it back on the market at a considerably higher price than the original purchase price,” the report stated.
Home renovations has inspired a competitive housing market Herron Todd White says.
“According to the latest figures home renovations have surged which has been inspired by the competitive housing market.
“There have been reports from the financial and housing sectors which have noted an increase in people opting to renovate instead of buying a new house.
“The latest Westpac Home Ownership Report noted, close to half of the respondents were thinking about going down the renovation path and one out of five had started to renovate.
“The report noted that in Tasmania 71% of respondents were completing renovation work at the time, and from those thinking about renovating in the near future, 23% advised it was their highest priority.
“The Housing Industry Association Tasmania in its latest Renovation Roundup report mentioned renovation activity in Tasmania was forecast to increase between now and 2020, which will bring the value of renovation activity to $758 million.
“The report also mentioned the largest rise was forecast for this year with approximately 6% growth,” the report commented.
There is a split between owner-occupiers and investors Herron Todd White comments.
“Both in the north and south of the state we are seeing a split between owner-“occupiers and investors.
“Investors do seem to be on the increase and there is a strong possibility investors will dominate the market, especially with the increase in property prices throughout mainland Australia, which could drive investors to Tasmania.
“We are also seeing that rising prices and strong demand for property has home owners worried about being priced out of the market, therefore they are opting to renovate,” the report stated.
Kitchen and bathroom are the primary renovation areas Herron Todd White advises.
“The most popular locations for renovatable properties are within the suburbs located closer to the Hobart and Launceston CBDs as they are still at an affordable price.
“Also with the increase in year wide tourism throughout the state, we are seeing many properties renovated in order to be advertised for short term accommodation through Airbnb and Stayz.
“As you travel further from the Hobart and Launceston CBD, there is a decrease in demand for properties.
“The main renovations being completed are kitchen, bathroom and painting throughout.
“We are seeing varying costs for this renovation work depending on the location of the property.
“The closer a property is to the CBD, there is a noticeable increase in architecturally designed renovations which increases the over cost of work,” the report advised.
Herron Todd White says that unit renovations are becoming increasingly common.
“Unit renovation is also quite common throughout the state as many units are also dated and in need of an update.
“With generally less costs associated in renovating a unit, there is strong appeal to complete these works.
“Units closer to the CBD are in high demand with a current shortage in supply which is attracting many investors to the units advertised for sale.
“Areas at a distance and not within the greater Hobart and Launceston areas can struggle when it comes to making a profit post renovations, as there is considerably less demand for properties in these areas.
“In saying this, had renovation work not have been completed in these areas, the properties may experience an extended selling period.
“It pays to do your research prior to commencing any renovation work as what can appear to be a simple renovation job can quickly lead to unexpected issues and delays which can prove to be quite costly.
“To assist with planning and budgeting home owners should take steps to determine the estimated available equity in their property,” the report stated.
Property Observer found a beauty with a renovated bathroom at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-deloraine-125787306" target="_blank">40 Parsonage Street Deloraine, Tasmania</a> (below).
The three bedroom home is on 645 m² and is on the market for $248,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/07/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-26%20at%209.49.07%20AM.png" alt="">
A four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-ulverstone-126017522" target="_blank">27 Heathcote Street Ulverstone</a> (below) is on the market for $329,000.
The two storey home sits on 718 m². 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/07/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-26%20at%209.52.58%20AM.png" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Renovations increasingly popular in Tasmania, but profits can be a struggle: HTW

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The residential property market in Sydney continues to surge, property valuation firm HTW recently noted.
It was being driven by lack of stock, record low interest rates, strong population growth, continued strong presence of overseas buyers, tax incentives, positive market sentiment/ speculation and re-invest using equity build up from previous years property market growth, according to the recent Herron Todd White report.
"Australians’ confidence in property as a good place to invest has reached a three year high according to a recent NAB survey,” the report noted.
Herron Todd White says that there was a lack of supply versus demand in Sydney which was driving prices up.
It noted the demand versus supply issue in Sydney was highlighted in the data provided by CoreLogic.
Sydney has a population in excess of 4.6 million but with total listings of around 20,636 properties, only slightly greater than Brisbane at 19,043 listings but less than Perth at 21,377 listings and a population of near 1.9 million.
As a comparison, Melbourne with a more comparable population of 4.2 million has a total of around 28,305 properties listed for sale.
"We consider that the lack of supply is the main driver in the escalation of prices in the greater Sydney market.
"The Sydney prestige property market, generally considered to be properties above $3 million, has continued its strong performance into 2017.
"Factors which have been driving the prestige market include a limited supply of quality stock coming on to the market and a sustained period of high auction clearance rates in prestige suburbs.
"High net wealth (HNW) purchasers, both local and international, continue to be attracted to the Sydney market, with a recent Domain article quoting Lord Andrew Hay, global head of residential at Knight Frank, that globally “Sydney is in 11th position in terms of most desirable cities for HNWs to live and invest in”,” the report commented.
Nine Sydney suburbs have a median price of $3 million while foreign buyers will face increased stamp duty and land tax surcharges Herron Todd White says.
“As per CoreLogic data there are currently nine suburbs in Sydney with a median price in excess of $3 million being on both sides of the harbour within a short commuting distance of the CBD.
"Bellevue Hill in Sydney’s east has had a total of 70 dwelling sales in the past 12 months with a median price as at April 2017 of $4.777 million, a further indication of the strong demand levels for prestige property.
"Despite tighter rules around foreign buyers purchasing property in New South Wales and increased stamp duty and land tax surcharges on foreign purchasers, foreign investment into the prestige market remains strong, particularly from Asia.
"Further regulatory or taxation changes, either here or in Asia, would be the most likely cause for the prestige market to slow in the near future,” the report advised.
Herron Todd White comments that with the property market running hot in recent years, some Sydney homes are earning more than their owners with the price of a house increasing by more money each day than most workers earn in a week.
"The CoreLogic data reveals house values in Clovelly (eastern suburbs) had the largest daily gains over the past year at $1,931 per day, followed by Manly (lower north shore) at $1,808 per day.
"Worryingly though, growth in wages has not kept pace with house price increases which have seen borrowers continuously tapping into the equity in their homes or investment properties to further use towards additional investment properties,” the report warned.
New developments in many of the areas are also driving prices up Herron Todd White says.
“Throughout greater Sydney another factor that has been driving the market is government infrastructure spending.
"The suburb of Frenchs Forest in the northern beaches region has been a strong performer over the past few years thanks in part to the construction of the much anticipated Northern Beaches Hospital and surrounding infrastructure.
"This investment in the area has driven up demand for housing with strong sales occurring.
"The median value for dwellings in this suburb is currently $1.515 million.
"In March 2014 it was $966,500 representing approximately 60% growth (source: Corelogic).
"Suburbs along the under construction North West rail link have outperformed surrounding suburbs over the past few years mostly due to this substantial investment.
"Suburbs such as Cherrybrook, Castle Hill and out to Rouse Hill have all benefited from the higher level of demand from purchasers looking to be located near solid transport hubs.
"This is shown by Cherrybrook’s change in median price of 88% over the past five years to be currently sitting at $1.43 million,” the report commented.
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cherrybrook-124986766" target="_blank">18 Woodcrest Place</a>, Cherrybrook (above) has been listed for between $1.25 million to $1.3 million.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cherrybrook-125306498" target="_blank">29 Beechwood Parade</a>, Cherrybrook (below) has been listed with a price guide of $1.35 million.
<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/2017/05/16/29%20Beechwood%20Parade.jpg" alt="">
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-cherrybrook-125270566" target="_blank">9 Acer Court</a>, Cherrybrook (below) was recently sold for $1.49 million.
<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/2017/05/16/9%20Acer%20Court.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-cherrybrook-125390126" target="_blank">16 Elderberry Place</a>, Cherrybrook (below) was recently sold for $1.43 million.
<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/2017/05/16/16%20Elderberry%20Place.jpg" alt="">
“For units, suburbs such as Mosman and Cremorne on Sydney’s lower north shore have remained strong for a number of years.
"Local agents have identified a sweet spot for 2-bedroom units of between $900,000 and $1.2 million.
"This will get you a larger, older style unit appealing to a wider market segment. This price bracket is well suited to a professional couple wanting a low maintenance unit within close proximity of the city.
"In addition this sweet spot is in line with the borrowing capabilities of a professional couple.
"In the western suburbs of Sydney we have seen strong interest in house and land packages in brand new estates.
"We note land in Austral starts from $360,000 and a 3-bedroom house and land package from $615,000.
"Although situated some 55 kilometres south-west of the CBD, this once semi-rural location is popular with young families wanting detached housing and a yard as well as future growth prospects and the low entry point compared to the average price of over $1 million,” the report stated.
Herron Todd White says that the Sydney property market is significantly outperforming every other localities, which could be the result of traditional factors.
“The Sydney property market has been significantly outperforming the rest of the Australian economy over recent years which we believe implies that it has not been affected by many traditional factors which restrict strong economic growth.
"It is difficult to say what it will take for the Sydney market to change course however many believe that it is nearing its peak of the cycle from an affordability point of view.
"A rise in interest rates of course would have a significant effect on the market however a rise in the official cash rate has not been hinted at by the RBA and it is assumed that this would only rise once the economy appears to be strengthening with inflation reaching targets.
"If interest rates did rise however, this would put a lot of pressure on highly geared investors and mortgagors.
"With rates of household debt at record levels, this could have a substantial effect on the property market.
"According to a recent RBA publication on household finances, average debts are now 89% greater than incomes, up from 67% four years ago.
"An anonymous survey by investment bank UBS revealed that 28% of people surveyed said their mortgage application was not totally factually accurate.
"This is another worrying sign that people are pushing the boundaries to get a foot on the property ladder and even a small increase in interest rates could severely affect the ability of these homeowners to keep up with mortgage repayments.
"Aside from interest rates, another factor which could force the market out of its current growth cycle extends to overseas buyers.
"Sydney continues to attract high levels of foreign investment with foreign buyers, mainly Chinese, making up 25% of all purchases of new dwellings in New South Wales over the past year according to a report by Credit Suisse.
"Any changes to regulations in China or in Australia which would restrict this wave of investment would surely have an influence on the Sydney market in particular,” the report commented.
Media plays a strong part in Sydney property markets Herron Todd White says.
“Many believe the media to have a very strong influence on the Sydney property market in general.
"This was shown at the end of 2015 and beginning of 2016 where a wave of negative media reports appeared to stunt the market for a short period of time.
"When potential property purchasers start believing there is a bubble, they will put off purchasing.
"This hit to the demand side would mean those who need to sell may have to do so at a discount.
"When the buying public starts to see properties selling at a discount then it strengthens the belief that the market has peaked or the bubble has burst.
"It is believed therefore that with any potential negative factor to hit the housing market, the media also has the power to exacerbate any consequences,” the report commented.
It is possible to curb Sydney’s heated market by initiating various ideas according to Herron Todd White.
“New South Wales government policy changes or changes to regulations on a state or national level also have the power to curb the heated market.
"Within the federal budget to be released on 9 May, plans are being drawn up to announce measures to tackle housing affordability. It is believed that these will mainly tackle the supply side of the market rather than the demand with the likes of new land releases etc.
"However any future changes to tax incentives such as negative gearing would have more influence on the market.
"Rental yields in Sydney are considered low however investor lending remains relatively high.
"If changes to negative gearing were put in place then housing as an investment in Sydney could suddenly look less attractive to a portion of the market.
"This would have an impact on the demand side of the market as investor lending is currently considered too strong.
"The issue here however is that any changes to federal taxation rules will also affect under performing areas outside of the strong markets in Sydney and Melbourne and that may influence the federal government’s decision.
"Policies in other countries show that it is possible to make changes that will have a considerable effect on housing markets.
"Policies currently trialed in Australia have so far failed to cool the Sydney market.
"These policies include an anti-tipping duty of 12% when property in Singapore is sold after less than one year; Hong Kong has a 30% transaction tax for foreign buyers and taxes on Taiwanese property sales can reach as high as 45%.
"In 2016, changes were made in Auckland which included a requirement of a 40% deposit from investors which appears to have slowed the also booming market.
"An increase in property taxes in British Columbia in 2016 also halted the runaway property market in Vancouver which was also heavily influenced by overseas buyers.
"Obviously all changes described are more severe than those implemented in the Australian markets such as the APRA restrictions on investment loans and tax surcharges on foreign buyers, which have so far been to no avail,” the report stated.
However Herron Todd White says that there are also other factors that could affect the property.
“Other factors with the ability to affect the Sydney property market include a stock market crash, major economic downturn or a significant decrease in projected population growth in the city.
"The risk of any of these currently looks relatively low,” the report advised.
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Lack of supply the main Sydney property market price driver: HTW

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The Axxess Corporate Park in Mount Waverley by Dexus has seen three new tenancy commitments, following upgrades to the properties by the property group.
The three are Monash University, Mason Seir Turnbull (MST) Lawyers and Suncorp Group, with the deals brokered by Colliers International. 
Monash University has signed on for 4,800 sqm at 321 Ferntree Gully Road, MST has taken 1,800 sqm at 315 Ferntree Gully Road and Suncorp Group has a 1,100 sqm office space and a 3,000 sqm warehouse at 47 Gilby Road.
All three leases were struck on mid-term tenures.
The leasing agents were Travis Myerscough, Rob Joyes, Ash Dean and Kevin Tutty of Colliers. 
“There was a need to provide modern, functional facilities that matched the appeal of the well-serviced estate,” Myerscough said, referring to the refurbishment work by Dexus.
Amenities for staff includes cafes, a childcare centre, gymnasium, badminton courts, on-site mechanic and BBQ areas.
Dexus also recently completed the construction of two more fully fitted and furnished suites at 307 Ferntree Gully Road, Mount Waverley.
“These upgrades are part of Dexus’ portfolio-wide suite strategy, where space is subdivided and speculatively fitted out to attract smaller space users,” Myerscough said.
“Following the success of subdividing whole floors in its high-rise buildings in the city, Dexus sought to implement the approach in its suburban properties.”
Dexus has found a tenant for 307 Ferntree Gully Road, with toy manufacturer Funtastic taking up a 550 sqm tenancy while relocating from Chadstone Shopping Centre.
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Dexus finds major tenants for Mount Waverley business park

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The latest research from CoreLogic's Parramatta Cityscope shows commercial property sales significantly increased in the quarter to June 2017.
The property data firm says that in the latest quarter there were 27 sales at a total value of $351.9 million, compared to the 19 sales at a total value of $66 million for the quarter to March 2017.
This brings the 12-month data to 95 sales at a total value of $707.5 million for the year to June 2017, compared to the 141 sales at a total value of $526 million for the previous year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Parramatta Cityscope.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-14%20at%2011.40.04%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/07/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-14%20at%2011.40.04%20am.jpg" alt="">
Notable sales in the June 2017 update of Parramatta Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>105 Phillip Street, Parramatta, a 14-storey office building with basement car parking for 200 vehicles, currently under construction at an estimated cost of $95 million. The building, upon completion, will provide a total of 20,388 sqm comprising 19,730 sqm of office space and 658 sqm of ground level retail space. It was pre-sold for $229 million;</li>
<li>83 Church Street, Parramatta, a car yard with a single-storey sales office at the back on a site of 7,584 sqm, which was bought for $91 million and</li>
<li>57 Church Street, Parramatta, a car yard with several one and two-storey brick buildings and a car wash on a site of 1,992 sqm, which was bought for $9 million.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-14%20at%2011.40.28%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/07/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-14%20at%2011.40.28%20am.jpg" alt="">
Properties listed as for sale in the June 2017 update of Parramatta Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>38 George Street, Parramatta, a three-storey office building with a net lettable area of 770 sqm, includes four covered parking spaces, refurbished in 1994, which is available through Khoury &amp; Partners;</li>
<li>295-309 Church Street, Parramatta, a two-storey building with 17 parking spaces to the rear with a net lettable area of 1,362 sqm, which is available through Khoury &amp; Partners and Savills – Sydney and</li>
<li>2A Ada Street, 2 Ada Street, 4 Ada Street, 6 Ada Street, 8 Ada Street and 1 Kendall Street, Harris Park, comprising a number of residential dwellings in derelict condition, providing a total site area of 3,002 sqm, which are available through Colliers International.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities listed in the June 2017 update of Parramatta Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>126 Church Street, Parramatta, a 13-storey office block with basement parking for 47 cars, extensively refurbished in 2002, which has office space ranging from 99 to 1,880 sqm available through Colliers International Sydney West and CBRE Western Sydney;</li>
<li>3 Horwood Place, Parramatta, an 11-storey A-grade office building with a net lettable area of 5,015 sqm and typical floor plate of 825 sqm plus parking for 94 cars, which has office space ranging from 135 to 1,341 sqm available through Colliers International Parramatta;</li>
<li>The Commonwealth Bank Building at 235 Church Street, Parramatta, a four-storey office building with three onsite car spaces, internal refurbishments in late 2007, which has office space of 1,203 sqm available through Karbon Property – Sydney and Colliers International Sydney South.</li>
</ul>
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Parramatta commercial property sales increased in quarter to June: Cityscope

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Entry-level office accommodation within the Adelaide CBD is essentially limited to strata suites, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White’s latest office market review. 
This market has been relatively stagnant, rental growth has been limited and the vacancy within the CBD is high. 
Below are a range of sales within the Adelaide CBD that HTW considers are entry level and show analysed yields ranging from 4% to 8%. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/14/AdelaideCBD1.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/07/14/AdelaideCBD1.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/14/AdelaideCBD2.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/07/14/AdelaideCBD2.jpg" alt="">
There are affordable freehold options within the CBD fringe. The price of properties will vary significantly, with the alternate use possibilities and development potential meaning that the investment is aligned to factors other than its office use. 
As an example of a sale, a 67 sqm office suite (above and below) at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-sa-adelaide-501956566">401/147 Pirie Street</a> in the CBD sold recently for  $376,000 through Leedwell Property, according to Corelogic RP Data.
 <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/2017/07/14/HTWAdelaide1.jpg" alt="">
The entry-level office accommodation in suburban localities is most notably former homes converted to office use along main arterial routes, add HTW.
Along these arterial routes the demand and therefore value levels will vary significantly between locations and building types; however, similar to CBD strata suites they are predominately sold to owner- occupiers. 
Escalating outgoing costs and limited rental growth is eroding investment returns. The market is more risk adverse and low interest rates can make owner- occupation more attractive than renting, indicating that owner-occupiers are more active in this space. 
Mum and dad investors looking to acquire entry- level office space should think more broadly about alternate uses and the potential of future rezoning; and if buying a leased investment ensure that the rent is sustainable. 
Cash flow positive office investment could have a higher risk of vacancy, with the possibility of needing to offer incentives such as lower rent to attract a new tenant, however, these costs may be beyond the entry-level investor. Lessoning those risks by looking to more prominent localities such as in the inner east CBD fringe or in the CBD will possibly push the price point beyond entry-level. 
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Adelaide CBD office market stagnant, entry level assets mostly strata suites: HTW

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Property group Dexus' suite strategy is paying off, with its Collins Street building in Melbourne experienced a surge in leasing deals.
There have been 20 transactions for a total of more than 7,000 sqm at 360 Collins Street during the past six months, with tenancies ranging from 190 sqm to 900 sqm, according to leasing agency Colliers International.
Recent deals include Eblueprint, which leased 321 sqm on level 12, WBP Property Group, which secured 373 sqm on level 15, and Hatch, which secured 288 sqm on level 11.
Colliers International’s Adam Davy, Ben Christie and Stephanie Hawkins secured the deals.
Dexus' suite strategy involves cutting up whole floors and refurbishing facilities to accommodate and attract a greater number and range of occupiers.
Hawkins said the upgrades were a key drawcard for new and existing tenants.
<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/2017/07/25/Dexus2.jpg" alt="">
In other deals, investor and media relations advisory firm Market Eye has taken a new lease for 240 sqm on level eight while iBuildNew has committed to 162sqm on level nine after the space was created in a subdivision for two larger leases to CH2M Hill and Intralink Wealth Management.
Level eight was divided to accommodate three tenants as part of the building’s suite leasing strategy, which was a selling point for Market Eye, Davy said.
Apt Wealth Partners has committed to 480 sqm, also on level eight, relocating from 411 Collins Street in a flight to quality.
Davy, who negotiated the five-year lease, said the onsite amenity for Apt Wealth Partners’ clients at 360 Collins Street drove the move to the A-grade asset.
“The building provides a grand new lobby, casual meeting areas, resort-quality end-of-trip facilities and new restaurants,” Davy said. 
“The floor was subdivided to accommodate Apt Wealth Partners’ specific leasing requirements,” he said.
Davy negotiated the deal at a record rental rate for the building.
Recently, Dexus also entered into an agreement to acquire the landmark heritage office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-pyrmont-502222974" target="_blank">100 Harris Street</a> in Sydney’s Pyrmont for $327.5 million, the largest office transaction in the suburb’s history.
 
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Tenants seek out Dexus' 360 Collins Street office development in Melbourne

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ANZ has opened a cashless branch in Brisbane’s CBD, its first for the city, as customers continue to choose online and digital banking options instead of cash.
The new branch in George Street is ANZ’s seventh cashless branch across Australia since it opened the first one in Sydney’s Bondi Junction in March 2016.
“Our customers are embracing the digital changes we’re rolling out across our network as they continue to use cash less for every day purchases," managing director Retail Distribution, Catriona Noble said.
“The simplicity of internet banking and digital apps means many customers often don’t need cash, and in some cases don’t need a physical wallet at all with the availability of mobile payments where they can pay with their smartphone.”
The new George Street branch does not offer traditional telling or over-the-counter cash handling, but staff are available to help customers deposit and withdraw cash through the bank’s SMART ATMs.
The branch staff members are available to help customers with bigger life decisions such as saving towards financial goals, home ownership or running a small business, which many customers still prefer to discuss face-to-face.
The new Brisbane branch is the 75th digital branch ANZ has opened in the past three years, with another 45 scheduled for 2018.
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