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.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

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.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

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.

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Joel Robinson

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

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

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.

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.

<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" />

“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.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

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.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<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" />

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.

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.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<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.

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.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

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.

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.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

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.

“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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

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.

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.

Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

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.

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.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]

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.

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.

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.

Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $498,000</li>
	<li>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee): ~$24,900</li>
	<li>Loan amount: ~$473,100</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term): ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield: 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

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.

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.

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.

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $629,000</li>
	<li>20 per cent deposit: ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li>Loan amount 80%: ~$503,200</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment: ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield:&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.

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.

On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.

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.

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

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.

Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;

"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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

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.

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.

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.

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.

Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

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

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.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

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.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

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.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368157]

“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“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.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

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.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“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.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

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.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

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.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“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.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“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.”

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.

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

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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Shallow research leads to misinformed real estate consumers and bad investment decisions. It’s important for investors to look beyond the veneer research published in mainstream media and dig a little deeper.
I’m alarmed at the number of consumers I encounter who think absorbing headlines and sound bytes constitutes research.
Their knowledge is paddling-pool shallow and they don’t know it. Their view of real estate markets is the one economists get from the 45th floor of a Martin Place office building. Australian property values rose 9.8% in the past year. Residential vacancies are 2.3%. First-home buyers can’t afford homes because the Sydney median is a million dollars. 
Mainstream media gives you little more than generalised numbers. A single figure describes the entire market is a large capital city. It’s meaningless at best and dangerously misleading at worst. 
The generalised number for Brisbane vacancies is around 2.5%. No worries. And a newspaper article recently quoted a “research report” claiming the city will run out of apartments to sell in five months. Other articles have said developers are making lots of off-the-plan sales. 
Great, let’s buy an inner-city unit in Brisbane.
Looking a little deeper, all the inner-city suburbs of Brisbane have vacancies in the 4-5% range. And that’s before the new developments now under construction or being marketed off-the-plan are completed and dumped in the rental pool.
If you get a copy of the afore-mentioned “research report”, you find that the people marketing the apartments are the same people who wrote the report – and some very creative accounting has been used to come up with the very self-serving conclusions.
Hunt around a little more and you will find independent research showing that 90% of Brisbane inner-city units are being sold to investors, and most of them are distant investors. The new high-rise apartments are not being built to service local demand. 
There’s also independent research indicating that the claims made by developers and marketers about pre-sales are largely false – or, at best, exaggerated.
The bottom line for buyers: it matters not whether every planned apartment in Brisbane gets sold. What matters is whether there’s rental demand for them. A market with empty apartments loses value dramatically. That’s why Surfers Paradise apartments are worth less than 10 years ago.
The veneer research numbers say buy a Brisbane unit. The deeper research says run away as fast as you can.
You can be forgiven for thinking not much is happening in Adelaide’s market. The latest generalised number says house prices have risen only 2.7% in the year to 30 June. Put that together with the vague impression you have about South Australia lacking population growth and economic vitality and you might conclude Adelaide’s not worthy of your attention.
The reality is quite different. There’s considerable momentum in the Adelaide residential market – it’s just that the single figure used to describe this market doesn’t reflect the rising sales activity.
Nor does it describe the many suburbs which have recorded double-digit rises in their median house prices in the past 12 months.
There are suburbs right across the metropolitan area, and across all price spectrums, which have recorded growth ranging from 10% to 18%.
Many of the locations with the strongest growth are middle-market areas, suburbs with median prices in in $500,000s, $600,000s and $700,000s – among them Glenelg East (up 17%), West Lakes (up 14%) and Cumberland Park (up 15%). 
Among the best has been Cheltenham, where the median price has increased 21.5% to $540,000. It’s part of the municipality of Charles Sturt in the middle-market western suburbs of Adelaide.
The Charles Sturt LGA is the leading precinct of Adelaide in terms of the number of suburbs with rising sales activity – indeed, it’s currently one of the best in Australia.
But if you simply glanced at the generalised price growth figure for Adelaide overall, and dismissed its prospects, you would never know there’s an outstanding growth market hidden beneath the figures.
 
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>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Shallow research leads to misinformed real estate consumers: Terry Ryder

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<div>Last week the ABS Job Vacancies series recorded New South Wales vacancies at an all-time high driven by positions in the services sector, which bodes well for Sydney employment growth. Indeed, Sydney's economic dials have all been switched to hot for a long time now. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>ANZ released its job advertisements dat<a href="https://www.media.anz.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=248677&amp;p=irol-jobad&amp;nyo=0" target="_blank">a</a> for September which showed a seasonally adjusted +3.9% jump following on from a +1.3% lift in August. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>This was the strongest monthly gain in 15 months and the trend estimate has now been rising since November 2013.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/07/ANZ.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/07/ANZ.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>
<div>ANZ noted that the series now appears to be stronger than had previously been thought, and that the economy seems to be adjusting relatively well to the decline in mining investment.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In other news the FCAI reported that an all-time record 1,143,104 new motor vehicle vehicles for the year to September after a +6.8 per cent year-on-year jump in the month.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>With the services PMI gauge also recording a fourth month of expansion for the first time since March 2008 (following on from a 7 year high reading last month), interest rates will be left on hold this week. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
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>. 
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>.
</div>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Job ads biggest jump in 15 months: Pete Wargent

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Part of the message in this week’s release of price statistics in Perth was an oversupply of properties in the market.
It’s a theme that will recur increasingly in major markets around Australia: contrary to the vested-interest message from the developer lobby, the biggest issue facing real estate is not shortages but surpluses.
In Perth, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia, the growing numbers of homes available for sale has tipped the market into significant oversupply. As a consequence, prices are falling.
Part of Perth’s issue is too many new apartments in the market. The CBD, West Perth and East Perth unit markets all have vacancies of 7.5% or higher and there is massive new supply in the pipeline. The number of apartments to be completed in Perth’s inner suburbs this year is 52% higher than the previous record year – at a time when demand is declining.
This issue will be repeated in other major cities around Australia: rising numbers of properties for sale, in excess of the number of buyers, exacerbated by the insane resolve of developers to keep building mega apartment towers.
The Perth inner-city apartment market features strongly in the new edition of the No Go Zones report I published this week.
The oversupplied unit market problem is one of two core issues at the heart of this report. The other is resources-related locations where developers built too many new dwellings, unaware that most of the new workers coming into their areas would be FIFO personnel staying in temporary workers camps.
Perth is not alone in having high inner-city vacancies set to get worse as new projects are completed. Melbourne and Brisbane also have too many empty apartments but are building more – far too many. The Gold Coast, which can’t seem to shake its boom-bust addiction, is hurtling towards its next catastrophic oversupply.
A recent report purporting to be credible research claimed that Brisbane would run out of apartments to sell within five months. This conclusion, which had property professionals chuckling all over Brisbane, was generated through creative accounting by an entity that makes its living selling inner-city apartments.
The reality is that the Brisbane CBD vacancy rate is already 5% and will get considerably worse as the new high-rise developments are completed. Surrounding suburbs are in similar situations. As I have reported previously in this column, only 10% of buyers in this market are home-buyers and most of the investors who make up the other 90% are distant investors. This is a clear signal to steer clear of this market.
Sydney’s inner-city apartment does not have any oversupply issues – not yet. But it’s headed down the same slippery path as Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane. The number of apartments to be completed across the Sydney metropolitan area over the next three years is double the historical average rate of construction.
The developer lobby’s claims of shortages will begin to look silly over the next couple of years as vacancies rise and values decline. The record rate of construction of new apartments is coinciding with the end of the Sydney property boom.
Properties listed for sale are rising fast as sales rates and auction clearance rates fade.
Developers are banking on being able to sell their stock in Asia. The recent marketing launch of a Melbourne project of 140 units was typical: the project was launched simultaneously to buyers in Beijing, Shanghai, Kuala Lumpur, Sabah and Singapore – with no attempt to sell any apartments to local buyers.
Like most of the major unit projects under way in Melbourne – and elsewhere - they’re not being built to meet local demand. They’re being targeted on Asian investors. 
The outcome will be the city’s greatest ever over-supply, with double-digit vacancy rates. Other analysts, like BIS Shrapnel, have made similar predictions. Paul Nugent of Wakelin Property Advisory has said: “Get out as soon as possible [otherwise] it will take 10 to 15 years before you get your money back.”
This is why Melbourne’s inner-city unit market is part of the No Go Zones report – which lists the ten markets across Australia that investors must avoid.
History has shown that the one factor that can collapse property values in Australia is oversupply – and that’s where the locations listed in this report are heading.
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>
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Part of Perth’s issue is too many new apartments: Terry Ryder

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The biggest challenge facing the Sydney residential property market is successfully calling the market accurately as against some who pluck figures out of the air with astonishing aplomb.
My preferred guide is the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) capital city indexes for Established Houses which is released on a quarterly basis – it’s all about measuring price movements over time.
So I struggle when I see BIS Shrapnel noting that Sydney house prices have soared 45% since 2009 although I remain somewhat confused as we need to add further perspective by taking into account that house prices fell approximately 20 to 30% during the Global Financial Crisis (GFC). When we average out the fall in prices at say 25% then factor the recent run on the market prices then they have in real terms only climbed 20% which is a different story to the reported 45%.
Over this same period we have seen the emergence of an entirely new market namely the investment market which has been the stand – out performer, although it has very little to do with the established house prices. I’m sure if one looks hard enough you can find data that identifies Sydney house prices have jumped 45% although I don’t believe this is an accurate assessment – more a market price manipulation.
If we go back a decade for Sydney house prices we see most interesting market price machinations – from the September quarter 2004 through to June 2006 (eight quarters) the Established Houses in Sydney were in negative growth at around -5% per quarter. From September 2006 until June 2008 Sydney went into positive growth mode although not exceeding +10% growth with a quarter average of around 5% – then the GFC hit. From September 2008 through to June 2009 Sydney was back in negative growth with negative growth quarters of 6 and 7% the highest reported. Then in September 2009 until December 2010 house prices went back into positive growth where in March 2010 price growth peaked at 19%. Then in June 2011 through to June 2012 prices fell back into negative growth although not alarming with five quarters of bouncing from -1% to -3%. Then in September 2012 until June 2015 Sydney has been experiencing its bull run which has now extended to twelve consecutive quarters with the June quarter posting the highest quarterly growth of 21% – the previous high was 17% in September 2014. I might add that the month of September seems to be a catalyst month in property price movements both positive and negative.
We also need to recognise that in the December quarter of 2008 the Rudd Government moved the off – the – plan sales for new developments from 50% to 100%, so this has been a significant driver in the investor property market. Sydney has added approximately 20,000 new apartment developments which is unprecedented by modern day property data and this has been strongly assisted by the record low cash rate of 2% that will probably go lower in 2016.
The big question that remains for the best part unanswered is just how many of the new 20,000 apartments will have their purchasers default as APRA has increased the loan value ratios and the much speculated Asian buyer defaults given the massive correction in the Chinese stock market. It’s no secret that many banks and developers have these developments on a red alert for these most obvious reasons.
Having said that we need to clearly identify that these are investors and should not be compared to the traditional housing market. The off – the – plan prices in Sydney apartment blocks has gone off the Richter scale so if there is a price correction there this would then have minimal effect on the established home prices although it would slow the market down as a result.
We just need to balance the debate – over the past 44 quarters for the percentage change in median values for established houses in Sydney 17 quarters have been in negative growth and 27 quarters in positive growth. We also need to look at the cash rate which was 3.00% in April 2013 and fell to 2.75% in May 2013 and has been stuck on 2.00% since May 2015.
The United States has been sitting on their record low cash rate for a decade now so it appears that record low cash rates is the new norm in global economies.
There is no need to panic about property prices for the established homes although the investor market will make for fascinating viewing over the next few years.
I also can’t recall ever seeing the established house market with record low numbers of properties on the market either.
<h5>MOSMAN – 2088</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 82
• Number of houses on the market last week – 48
• Number of houses on the market this week – 49
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 50
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 60
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 60
<h5>CREMORNE – 2090</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 14
• Number of houses on the market last week – 7
• Number of houses on the market this week – 9
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 22
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 23
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 23
<h5>NEUTRAL BAY – 2089</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 5
• Number of houses on the market last week – 9
•Number of houses on the market this week – 9
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year– 51
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 21
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 23
ROBERT SIMEON is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985.  He has also been writing real estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. 
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How to manipulate property market machinations: Robert Simeon

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Given it was such a quiet week for auctions last week, it was unsurprising to see volumes increase substantially this week, with 2,903 held across the combined capital cities.
 The preliminary clearance rate was 72.0% this week across a total of 2,178 reported auction results, up from a final clearance rate of 68.2% last week across just 865 auctions. At the same time last year, 67.8% of auctions cleared and a total of 2,408 capital city auctions were held.
<a href="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Capital-city.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Capital-city.jpg" alt="" width="758" height="574">
 
Melbourne was the strongest performer this week, with 74.1% of reported auctions recording a successful result. There were 1,358 Melbourne auctions scheduled, with 1,169 results reported so far. Last week, Melbourne’s final auction clearance rate was 73.1%, while one year ago it was 70%. The busiest sub-region across Melbourne for auctions this week was the Inner region, with 259 held. So far 228 results have been reported with a preliminary clearance of 75.8%. In terms of clearance rate, the top performer this week was the South East at 79.1% (148 auction results).
<a href="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Melbourne.jpg" alt="" width="819" height="553">
 
Sydney hosted 1,141 auctions this week and preliminary results show that 72.8% cleared. Last week, Sydney’s clearance rate just dipped below the 70% mark, at 69.9% when auction volumes were lower (583). Relative to last year, this week’s result is stronger, given last year 918 auctions were held and the clearance rate was 71.9%. This week, 3 Sydney regions were significantly stronger than others, with Northern Beaches (88%), Eastern Suburbs (85.5%), and City and Inner South (81.9%) the top performers. On the other end of the scale, Central Coast’s clearance rate was 41.7%.
<a href="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Sydney.jpg" alt="" width="823" height="555">
 
Across Brisbane 178 auctions were held this week, up from 113 last week and 167 one year ago. Preliminary results show that Brisbane’s clearance rate increased slightly, from 59.1% last week to 59.4 per cent this week. In comparison to last year, current activity is stronger (48.8%). Further south, 71 of the 100 Gold Coast auction results have been reported and the clearance rate so far is 50.7%.
<a href="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="787" height="522">
 
In Adelaide auction activity also picked up this week, 124 auctions were held compared to just 33 over the previous week. Adelaide’s preliminary clearance rate of 74.0% is higher than last week (67.7%) and also higher than it was over the same week last year (55.8%).
<a href="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/12/20151012-Adelaide.jpg" alt="" width="814" height="554">
 
There were 31 Perth auctions this week, compared to 10 last week and 25 one year ago. Perth’s preliminary clearance rate is 41.2%, compared to 44.4% last week and 52.6% one year ago.
Canberra’s clearance rate was 63.6 per cent this week across 64 auctions. Last week the city saw 63.2% of auction sell, while one year ago the clearance rate was significantly lower at 52.6%.
2 Tasmanian auctions have been reported to CoreLogic RP Data this week and preliminary results show only 1 sold.
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Capital cities return strong clearance rate: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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Across the combined capital cities, 2,904 auctions are scheduled this week after 3,016 residential homes were taken to auction the previous week.
The clearance rate last week improved slightly, up from 68.2% to 69.5%, demonstrating that clearance rates are similar to the levels seen at the same time on year ago (67.8%).
This week, it is expected that Melbourne auction volumes will rise, while Sydney will be host to less auctions than last week. In Melbourne, 1,481 residential auctions will be held, compared to 1,397 last week and a significantly lower 1,167 one year ago. Meanwhile, there are 1,063 homes being taken to auction in Sydney this week, compared to 1,197 last week and 929 one year ago.
Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth will all see a lower number of auctions this week compared to last week and similarly, lower than they were one year ago:
Adelaide:         88 this week                127 last week              103 last year Brisbane:       149 this week                186 last week              159 last year Perth:              16 this week                  34 last week               23 last year
On the other hand, Canberra is expecting 92 auctions this week which is higher than both last week (68) and last year (55).
This week, the top 10 busiest suburbs for auctions are all located in Victoria. Brighton and Reservoir are set to be the busiest, where 21 auctions will be held and Cheltenham, will host 19 auctions this week.
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High auction volumes for the second week in a row: Corelogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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At Property Bloom we are always trying to improve our process.  We put a lot of time and effort into designing our villas, houses or units whether they be for a dual occupancy or multi unit project, we want our finished product to look better than the standard 'investor stock'.
Of course, we need to do this in a cost effective way and so I've found that spending time on key areas like front façades, kitchens and bathrooms can add a wow factor without breaking the budget.
I read this great story about <a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/ideabooks/53600916/list/12-hot-kitchen-trends-set-to-sizzle-in-2016" target="_blank">12 hot kitchen trends</a> and was pleased to see we were meeting seven of the twelve trends in the kitchens we are building right now.
Here's a photo of a kitchen in one of our recently completed developments:
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.45.50%20AM.png" alt="" width="508" height="325">
 
Timber features for kitchens continues to trend. We've used it in our kitchen to add warmth and it was nice to see the report notes that walnut tones  will be trending next year. The timber cupboards we've used are Polytec European Walnut. 
You can also add texture by using a textured product to your cupboards. We did this by using a textured melamine to the timber areas. Which brings me to the next trend - texture.
 Most kitchen manufacturers offer a good choice of textured laminate benches or melamine cupboards and they are usually the same price as flat surfaces.  You can add texture to your splashback tile. We have used a softly lined splashback tile, although it's hard to see in the photo.
We purposely kept the main cabinetry neutral which ticks another trend box. We only wanted two main features for the kitchen which is the use of timber and stone for the benches.
Thin benches are in and it's goodbye to chunky style benches.  This is a relief as we used a thin, engineered stone bench with mitred edges. This was a choice more around cost than trend as the thicker bench tops were more expensive.  
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.46.48%20AM.png" alt="" width="553" height="340">
Engineered stone benches have become so well manufactured that it can be hard to tell the difference from natural materials.In an investment property it doesn't make sense to use real marble or granite so we are meeting the trend to use engineered materials. I love the wider choice of colours and tones you can get from the various supplies of engineered stone benches. It's important your bench works in well with your flooring, especially if you are using a mitred or waterfall edge where the bench will meet the floor.
Speaking of flooring, we've used a stone look floor tile with a polished finish. I like the floor to reflect light which can give the impression of a large, clean space. But perhaps this is not right on trend as I think more natural and matt finishes are in right now.
For our pendant lights, we've used a small white pendant with a silver foil lining inside it. This adds a little touch of glam. So we are only just half ticking the trend of using precious metals. If you really want to be on trend you should incorporate some brass, cooper or gold which may be used in the lighting, tapware, rangehood or splashback.But we didn't want to compete with the natural timber tones that were already a feature. Be careful not to have too many features as they can compete with each other giving you a cluttered or busy look.
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.47.32%20AM.png" alt="" width="436" height="277">
I find designing the kitchens and choosing the colours one of the most enjoyable parts of property development and valuers have told me that a well designed, spacious kitchen with quality features will add value to your property. If you'd like to know just how much this kitchen cost us, then send me an email and I'll be happy to share.      
Jo Chivers is chief executive officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>.
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Is your property development ticking kitchen trends?: Jo Chivers

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It was another busy week for auctions across the combined capital cities with 2,817 auctions held after the previous week saw 3,016 properties taken to auction; the highest volumes have been since March this year. 
The preliminary clearance rate of 69.3% has remained below 70% for the 5th week in a row, down from 69.5% last week. This time last year, the clearance rate was 68.6%, although volumes were lower with only 2,449 auctions held.
<a href="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-capital-city.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-capital-city.jpg" alt="" width="560" height="423">
 
In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, 73.6% of the 1,193 reported auctions sold this week. There were 1,390 auctions held across the city this week, similar to last week, when there were 1,397 auctions and the final auction clearance rate was 73.4%. In comparison, over the same week last year, there were 1,167 auctions held with a clearance rate of 71.7 per cent. The Inner region of Melbourne had the highest number of auctions this week (287), with a preliminary clearance rate of 73 per cent. Meanwhile, the strongest clearance rate was recorded across the Outer East region, where 82.1 per cent of homes taken to auction sold based on the preliminary results.
<a href="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Melbourne.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Melbourne.jpg" alt="" width="663" height="449">
 
Across Sydney, 1,074 homes were taken to auction this week with a preliminary clearance rate of 66.6 per cent across 830 reported results, the lowest clearance rate for the year and also the third week in a row where Sydney’s clearance rate has been below 70 per cent. The last time the clearance rate was this low was the first week of December 2014 (66.1). Last week, the final clearance rate for the city was 69.6 per cent, across 1,197 auctions. One year ago, 929 Sydney homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 72 per cent. This week, the performance across Sydney’s individual sub regions was varied. Across the Outer South West region, where 21 results have been reported so far, the preliminary clearance rate was 47.6 per cent, while across the Inner West (80 per cent) and the Eastern Suburbs (76.8 per cent), the success rate of reported auctions was much higher.
<a href="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Sydney.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Sydney.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="434">
Brisbane was host to 146 auctions this week, down from 186 last week, and the preliminary clearance rate was 53.2 per cent, down slightly from 53.8 per cent over the previous week. At the same time last year, 46 per cent of the 159 auctions held were successful. In the Gold Coast, a clearance rate of 56.5 per cent was recorded across 23 results.
<a href="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Brisbane.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Brisbane.jpg" alt="" width="623" height="418">
 
A total of 93 Adelaide homes were auctioned this week and the preliminary auction clearance rate of 72.1 per cent is higher than the 64 per cent from the previous week across 127 auctions. One year ago, Adelaide’s clearance rate was a lower 53.3 per cent across 103 auctions.
<a href="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Adelaide.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/19/20151019-Adelaide.jpg" alt="" width="659" height="446">
 
In Perth, just 16 auctions were held this week. Of the 8 results reported toCoreLogic RP Data so far, only 2 have been successful. Last week, the final auction clearance rate for Perth was 37.9 per cent across 34 auctions.
Across Canberra a total of 82 auctions were held this week, up from 68 last week and 55 at the same time last year. Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate of 67.3 per cent is stronger than it was the previous week (62.1 per cent).
Of the 12 Tasmanian auction results reported so far this week, 7 sales have been recorded.
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Clearance rate below 70% for the fifth week running: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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One of the side effects of Sydney’s boom is that prices have risen a lot but rents haven’t, so yields have become ugly – i.e. not attractive to investors.
Melbourne prices haven’t risen as much (generally speaking) but the city has developed a gap between prices and rents similar to Sydney’s. These days you’re lucky to find a rental yield as high as 3% - which, even in these days of low interest rates, is unappealing.
Other capital cities like Adelaide and Brisbane have much better yields on offer, but for investors seeking properties that can pay their own way the pickings are slim.
There was a time when investors could access double-digit rental yields in resources-related locations (if they were willing to disregard risk). But many of those markets have collapsed, either through developer over-supply or the impact of FIFO workforces or the mining downturn - or some combination of those three factors.
There’s nowhere left that provides 10%-plus rental yields. Some of the more careless research houses publish lists claiming you can get 15% or 20% yields in certain locations, but those are statistical aberrations that prove the adage about “garbage in, garbage out”, exacerbated by researchers with a garbage approach to business ethics (as long as it generates publicity, to hell with accuracy).
A recent list claimed you could get yields above 30% (!!) in Mission Beach in Queensland, when in reality typical yields on residential property in this location are below 5%. If 30% yields were truly achievable, every investor in Australia would be stampeding north and buying every property in sight. 
The best yields you can find anywhere in Australia – I mean genuine rental yields based on real situations, not computer glitches, in locations of substance – are to be found in Cairns.
Cairns is one of a number of regional Queensland cities where you can readily buy property that pays its own way – i.e. cash flow positive or at least neutral. 
In the North Queensland city, you can find plenty of houses with rental returns in the 5.5% to 6% range and apartments between 7% and 8%. I can’t find another market of substance with rental yields that strong. 
Other regional cities in the state offer attractive returns as well. The Sunshine Coast, Townsville and Hervey Bay have this in common: houses where yields are typically in the 4.7% to 5.5% range and units that generally range from 5.7% to 6.5%. If you hunt around, you can find better.
The other common things they share are strong economies, growing populations, major spending on infrastructure, ambitious local councils and plenty of affordable dwellings. They’re all on growth paths, some of them after long periods of under achievement.
Some, like Cairns and the Sunshine Coast, are transition economies, where civic and business leaders have recognised that the historic reliance on tourism makes them vulnerable to downturns caused by forces beyond their control. So they’ve been proactively working to broaden the economic base and encourage new industries.
The Sunshine Coast now has a medical sector that didn’t previously exist, based on the $2 billion University Hospital which is generating all kinds of new medically-related development around it. It’s helping the Sunshine Coast become a regional city, rather than a coastal retreat for tourists and retirees. Similar things are happening in Cairns and, to a lesser extent, in Hervey Bay.
These property markets are starting to deliver good price growth and strong rents, with yields far in excess of what you can get in any of the capital cities.
 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>
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Sydney rental yields becoming ugly: Terry Ryder

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It has been interesting to track economic data over the past few years, watching the Sydney economy outperform across most metrics.
Small wonder that the Sydney housing market has also forged ahead so strongly since 2008.
The New South Wales economy is powering Australia's economic growth, with ANZ's stateometer now showing the Premier State both above trend and accelerating across a range of economic indicators, from labour market conditions to house prices.
<a href="/images/2015/10/22/NSW.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/10/22/NSW.jpg" alt="">
 
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>. 
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>.
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