<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jl-place">JL PLACE</a>'s Veil Brighton is approaching its final months of construction, with the nine-townhouse development at 17 Rooding Street expected to complete in December 2026.

The milestone is bringing the boutique project closer to becoming a finished part of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brighton-vic-3186">Brighton</a> streetscape, with much of Brighton's everyday amenity within a short walk.

Palace Cinema, Coles Supermarket and North Brighton Station are all around five minutes on foot from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/veil-brighton-17-rooding-street-brighton-vic-3186">Veil</a>, alongside numerous cafés, restaurants and bars. The station provides a direct rail connection toward Melbourne's CBD, while Bay Street and the wider Brighton retail and dining network add to the range of services accessible without relying on a car for every trip.

"The location was fundamental to the project. Brighton is an established suburb where many buyers already have strong connections to the area and want to remain close to the people, places and amenities that form part of their everyday life," the developer said.

"Veil sits in a highly walkable part of Brighton, with a Walk Score of 90/100."

For buyers looking to right-size within Bayside, that level of walkability adds to the appeal of a more manageable way of living. Everyday shopping, dining, entertainment and public transport can be accessed without relying on the car for every trip, while residents remain connected to the places and routines that make Brighton familiar. It allows buyers to simplify day-to-day life without giving up the convenience, amenity and connections they already value.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355754]

As completion approaches, the architecture, landscaping and material palette are progressively becoming visible on site, giving prospective purchasers a clearer view of the finished development beyond its plans and renders.

Veil comprises nine townhouses, predominantly three-bedroom homes with between 2.5 and 3.5 bathrooms, two car spaces and, depending on the residence, study areas and private outdoor space. Selected homes include a bedroom on the ground floor.

Veil occupies a middle ground between detached housing and apartment living, retaining private gardens, storage and secure parking within a more manageable residential format.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/schmidt-pang-architects">Schmidt &amp; Pang</a> designed the architecture around natural light, ventilation, privacy and practical use of space. From Rooding Street, the façade has been composed to read as a cohesive residential building rather than nine individual townhouses, with landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick Landscape Architects</a> integrated throughout the site.

Inside, natural stone, oak flooring, integrated joinery and brushed nickel finishes establish a restrained material palette, while kitchens include Miele appliances and substantial storage such as pantries. Walk-in robes and dedicated study spaces have also been incorporated across the collection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7877 project_image_fid=355852]

The project team said the planning of the homes has been informed by how the spaces function for both daily routines and larger gatherings.

"Our new homes owners at Veil have enjoyed the attention to detail in creating efficient layouts that use every space well. Hosting Christmas lunch and large family gatherings is an ease when care is taken to consider how people really live and entertain."

Private landscaped gardens extend the living spaces outdoors, while secure basement parking and bicycle parking are provided below. The homes have also been designed to achieve a 7-star energy rating, supported by double glazing, high-quality insulation, natural ventilation, LED lighting, water tanks and water-efficient fittings. Each residence is backed by a 10-year building guarantee.

Veil is being built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/jeniton">Jeniton</a>.&nbsp;Limited-time stamp duty savings are also currently available on selected purchases at Veil, adding another consideration as the project moves toward completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7877]

Joel Robinson

Veil Brighton nears completion in one of the suburb's most walkable pockets

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a> has recorded 134 sales worth just over $400 million in two months of pre-release activity at The Riversdale, as the developer brings its $750 million South Brisbane riverfront project to the broader market.

The sales represent more than 60 per cent of the project's 213 apartments, with Mosaic reporting the majority of purchasers have been local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale</a> will rise 39 storeys from its north-facing site at 91 Montague Road, delivering a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments alongside a collection of Mosaic's premium Masterpiece Series Sky Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371872]

The early buyer response comes ahead of the wider evolution of the northern end of Montague Road, where The Riversdale will be one of the first major residential projects delivered within an emerging riverfront precinct.

Directly adjoining the development is a planned 7.1-hectare mixed-use precinct, set to introduce new residences, parkland and public realm along the river's edge. The Riversdale's position directly on the Brisbane River gives it a relationship with the waterfront that Mosaic says cannot be replicated by future buildings within the precinct.

The site is also the result of a years-long pursuit by Mosaic. The developer first earmarked the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-brisbane-qld-4101">South Brisbane</a> property in 2018, reflecting what Founder and Managing Director Brook Monahan has described as a deliberately patient approach to acquiring development sites.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=372083]

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan previously told Apartments.com.au.

"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."

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau Proberts</a>, The Riversdale has been shaped around the qualities of the riverfront site, with apartments oriented to capture northern light and uninterrupted Brisbane River views.

Generous floorplans and expansive balconies extend the living spaces towards the river, while natural materials and a restrained interior palette have been selected with longevity in mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371890]

Residents will have access to a level of amenity more commonly associated with world-class hotels and private members' clubs, with almost 3,000 sqm dedicated to wellness, connection, recreation and everyday convenience.

At ground level is a business lounge, private meeting rooms and dedicated workspaces. Mid-tower is a wellness sanctuary featuring magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, sauna, steam room, infrared therapy facilities, a Pilates and yoga studio, and a commercial-grade gymnasium.

Crowning The Riversdale is a rooftop featuring a 35-metre swimming pool with lap lane and spa, outdoor dining and seating terraces, firepit lounges and views of the city, river and Mount Coot-tha.

A private members' club-inspired retreat offers private dining rooms, a whisky lounge, media rooms and immersive entertainment experiences. Completing the amenity offering are two hotel-style guest suites and a resident-exclusive electric vehicle fleet and car-share program.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=371877]

The Riversdale sits at the northern end of Montague Road between South Bank and West End, around 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, providing access to the city's major cultural, dining and recreation precincts.

It becomes Mosaic's largest Brisbane project to date and adds to a pipeline already under construction across the city.

In Brisbane, the developer is currently delivering The Bedford and The Carter at Kangaroo Point, both of which are approaching sell-out, with a further four projects being delivered on the Gold Coast. Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects since 2012 and has a further development pipeline exceeding $2 billion across South East Queensland.

Early works are underway at The Riversdale, which will be delivered by Mosaic's in-house construction division. Completion is anticipated in late 2029, with remaining apartments priced from $1.98 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151614]

Mosaic records more than $400m in two months at South Brisbane's The Riversdale

Lender, fund manager and apartment developer Princeton has completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, the first new apartment development in South Sydney to provide its owners with a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, the most comprehensive insurance available for a new apartment building.

The policy has been a key consideration for prospective purchasers of the 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, strategically located between&nbsp;Rockdale Plaza and Rockdale Station.&nbsp;

Buyers have also been drawn to the fact that it is one of few new apartment developments delivered in the suburb in the last 10 years, and the only one located on Princes Highway to be set well back from the street to reduce noise. There's also a communal rooftop, a rarity in the suburb, complete barbecue facilities, landscaped seating areas, a children's play zone and herb gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374084]

Ray White Projects’ Matt Otway said buyer enquiry reflected the increasingly diverse and cosmopolitan population that has made Rockdale home.

“We’re seeing strong interest from a broad mix of buyers, including young professionals and people who have rented in Rockdale and the surrounding suburbs and now see Marque as an opportunity to buy a brand-new apartment in an area they already know,” Otway said.

“Proximity to the CBD and Sydney Airport is another key advantage particularly for buyers working in these locations who want the added convenience of living close by.”

Investors have also been attracted to the project, with rental yields of more than five per cent, which is considered a strong result for the Sydney market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374090]

Adding another layer to the buyer proposition is Marque's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance, making it the only new apartment development in Rockdale to offer the cover.

The policy protects apartment owners against major structural and waterproofing defects for 10 years following completion, giving Marque purchasers cover until early 2036 at no additional cost.

The likelihood of defects emerging has also been mitigated through the Technical Inspection Service (TIS), which saw independent experts inspect the building at various stages throughout construction to identify potential issues during the build, rather than after the fact.

SDSS, which provided the TIS, consistently ranked the construction quality at Marque, undertaken by iCIRT-rated builder Coplex, among the best across its extensive portfolio of projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=374088]

Otway said the LDI had become a major drawcard for buyers, particularly given Rockdale has seen relatively little new apartment development over the past decade.

"Rockdale hasn't had a lot of new apartment buildings in the last decade, and has never had a project with 10-year defect insurance," Otway said.

"Marque presents a truly rare opportunity at an affordable price point, so well connected to the Sydney CBD."

One-bedroom apartments at Marque start from $735,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Marque Rockdale completes as South Sydney’s first apartments backed by 10-year defect insurance

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/odus">ODUS Property Group</a> is continuing to expand its local Gold Coast development pipeline, filing plans for a new 40-storey tower in the Southport CBD.

Odus, which bought two luxury Main Beach projects, now La Mer and Le Reve, to make its move into the booming Gold Coast apartment market, has secured its third site. But it is tweaking the plans for a previously proposed 50-storey skyscraper, now seeking to deliver 40 storeys.

The project, dubbed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/80-marine-parade-74-80-marine-parade-southport-qld-4215">80 Marine Parade</a>, sits on a prime&nbsp;2,032 sqm amalgamated corner site at 74–80 Marine Parade and 4 Welch Street, across the road from the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre. It will have unobstructed, never-to-be-built-out views to the east given its position opposite the Broadbwater Parklands.&nbsp;

The plans are for 316 apartments, ground-floor retail, and resort-style resident amenities. The project sits within Precinct 1 (Central Business District) of the Southport Priority Development Area, where high-density residential and commercial development is actively encouraged.

BGD, ran by Bayden Goddard and the architecture firm behind Le Reve, has revised the original concept plans, substantially reworking the built form. Basement parking has been replaced by an expanded podium designed to improve functionality while reducing the tower's overall visual impact.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0f13d065-2cf5-45ec-aa17-1a03754d93d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da%202.png?VersionId=.9QS2n7kBc_U3PyaI247uOyNSXIqnXSE" />

The tower rises above the eight-storey landscaped podium with a distinctive architectural language defined by sweeping arches, integrated greenery, bronze-toned glazing, and a sculptural rooftop crown.

The development will comprise 104 one-bedroom apartments, 208 two-bedroom apartments, and four four-bedroom penthouses across levels 9 to 36. Apartments are designed to accommodate both permanent residents and short-term accommodation within the same building.

A double-height lobby and reception will anchor the ground floor alongside a 23 sqm food and drink outlet, activating the Marine Parade frontage.

Parking will be accommodated within the podium, providing 288 vehicle spaces and 74 bicycle spaces, accessed from Welch Street.

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d7528b91-2c47-4094-98b3-5eecbacc0041" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=efF5oWs4T9PDvxJwJEDHu5kSQ5eE3IBy" />

Residents will have access to an extensive suite of amenities spread across multiple levels. A podium recreation deck will include a swimming pool, spas, sauna, steam room, cinema, residents' lounge and children's games room, while a second wellness level near the top of the building will feature a gym, co-working spaces, reading room, dining areas and communal kitchen. Extensive podium landscaping wraps the building to soften the built form and strengthen its interface with the surrounding streetscape.

The planning report notes the project responds directly to Southport's ongoing urban transformation.

"Consistent with much of Southport, the surrounding area is undergoing significant transition, with many older low-rise developments progressively being redeveloped for higher-intensity urban outcomes, as envisaged within Precinct 1."

It also states that the proposal "will contribute to a defined and legible eastern gateway to the Southport CBD, reinforcing the area's high-density urban character while maintaining a strong visual connection to the adjoining public open space network."

<img alt="First look: Odus Property Group plots landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0b9fdebd-4b35-400b-a287-6bd1cdbcdb1b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20da.png?VersionId=4LG35XR5mfir7jvG2TShtQx.utMLYBxu" />

Located opposite the Broadwater Parklands, the site enjoys immediate access to the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Australia Fair Shopping Centre, TAFE Queensland Southport campus, the G:link light rail corridor and Southport's established commercial precinct. The location places future residents within one of the Gold Coast's fastest-evolving mixed-use centres, where numerous high-rise residential projects are reshaping the CBD skyline.

Odus is headed by development professionals Byron Sakha, Jarrod Younan and Sebastian Younan. The Younans also head family-owned builder Nazero Constructions, established in the 1960s.

They are currently delivering La Mer, 24 luxury apartments on Main Beach Parade, and Le&nbsp;Rêve, on the same street but on the prized beachfront side of the sought-after strip.

ODUS plans landmark 40-storey tower for Southport's Broadwater gateway

A boutique collection of just 10 residences could become the catalyst for the next phase of renewal along the southern end of Surfers Paradise Boulevard, with new plans laid for a mixed-use tower designed to transform a long-vacant site.

The proposal for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/3098-surfers-paradise-boulevard-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">3098 Surfers Paradise Boulevard</a> has been conceived as more than a standalone residential project. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the development aims to spark the revitalisation of what the design team describes as the "South Boulevard" precinct, creating an active streetscape with retail uses at ground level beneath a collection of full-floor luxury residences.

The application, by PR Property Holdings, an entity directed by the Brisbane-based Ryan and Petrovic families, seeks approval for a 17-storey, 62.2-metre mixed-use development on a compact 427 sqm site between Surfers Paradise Boulevard and Appel Street.

The project will comprise just 10 apartments, including eight full-floor residences and two duplex apartments, positioned above a two-level retail podium. Three podium parking levels will accommodate 26 vehicle spaces, while a recreation deck is proposed on Level 4.

<img alt="First look: PR Property Holdings plans boutique apartment tower to kickstart Surfers Paradise's 'South Boulevard' revival" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46cfa37d-5051-4449-8d8e-6724f8ca0d59" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_8.png?VersionId=e7UkeV1eTZAC2lXhdq72E3jpUbwiFD2t" />

Rather than pursuing apartment volume, the proposal focuses on large-format homes with a slender tower form intended to maximise outlooks while limiting visual bulk.

BDA Architecture said the proposal has been designed to become an urban renewal catalyst for the precinct.

"The ambition of 3098 Surfer's Paradise is that it provides the catalyst for incremental infill redevelopment and upgrade of what is coined the 'South Boulevarde' of Surfers Paradise which connects to the beating heart of Cavill Avenue."

The architects added: "An incremental approach to development that provides quality ground plane interface, human scale design, integrated subtropical landscape and semipublic permeable frontage can over time entirely upgrade a precinct."

The architecture adopts soft curves, articulated balconies and a slender tower profile rising from a human-scaled podium. The design report describes the project as delivering "bespoke residences of enduring distinction, sculpted with precision and quiet sophistication," with a focus on timeless coastal architecture.

The application also includes retail tenancies addressing Surfers Paradise Boulevard, reinforcing the site's role as an active mixed-use destination rather than a purely residential address. The planning report states the combination of the podium, landscaping and active frontage is intended to strengthen the pedestrian experience while contributing to the evolving character of the boulevard.

The site occupies a prominent position in the southern section of Surfers Paradise, directly opposite the G:link light rail corridor and within walking distance of Surfers Paradise Beach, Cavill Avenue, the Nerang River and Bruce Bishop Car Park. It is currently vacant, having previously accommodated a single-storey commercial building that was demolished in 2022. The planning report notes the surrounding area is characterised by a mix of commercial buildings and residential towers, with unlimited building height provisions applying under the Centre Zone.

The proposal also replaces an earlier 2022 approval for a restaurant and bar on the site, instead introducing a permanent mixed-use development that combines retail activation with boutique residential living.

Boutique apartment tower to "kickstart" Surfers Paradise's 'South Boulevard' revival

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

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

<html><body>
The Melbourne-based developer Villawood has secured another south-east Queensland development site.
It is a 233-hectare site with approval for 150 plus rural-residential lots at Kingsholme in the Gold Coast hinterland.
Lots will be typically 5,000 square metres.
The sixth acquisition by Villawood over the past year is close to the 86-hectare Gold Coast Country Club in Helensvale which Villawood acquired earlier this month.
The Helensvale site has potential for 1,200 dwellings. 
Established by Rory Costelloe in Bendigo in 1989, the private developer turns over between $200 million and $250 million a year, securing about $23 million in pre-tax profits, according to a recent Australian Financial Review article.
The developer has an active and future land bank of over 19,000 lots.
Villawood Properties’ co-executive director Tony Johnson said that the site in Kingsholme was an opportunity the company "couldn’t pass up."
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
“This stunning property is elevated, meaning our buyers will benefit from incredible views to the Gold Coast, Stradbroke Island and the Hinterland, making it one of the most enviable locations in this region.
“Located half way between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, makes this land very appealing to those who want the best of both worlds – to work in the Brisbane CBD, but still be able to come home and be close to the beach on the Gold Coast," he said.
There are six schools all within a seven kilometre radius of the site and the Ormeau Train Station is two kilometres away.
Works are expected to commence in mid-2015. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Villawood buys another south-east Queensland development site

<html><body>
The 100 diner East Brunswick premises of Hellenic Republic has been sold for $2,375,000.
The initial price guidance was around $1.9 million for the recent auction.
There were five interested parties for the 340 square metre property at 434 Lygon Street.
It has been listed by Made Establishment through the Killen Thomas agent John Camilleri in conjunction with <a href="https://www.fitzroys.com.au/property/8757/sale/434-lygon-street/brunswick-east-vic-3057/investment-(retail)" target="_blank">Chris Kombi at Fitzroys</a>. 
It is just the premises that sold as the popular 273 square metre eatery will continue to trade after a newly signed 10-year lease.
Hellenic Republic, with its new 10 year plus five and five year lease, was offered returning $120,000 per annum plus outgoings and GST.
Made Establishment is jointly owned by celebrity chef George Calombaris, restaurant entrepreneur George Sykiotis, and steel industry barons Joe Calleja and Tony Lachimea.
The property traded at $824,000 in late 2007 when bought by George C Pty Ltd and Cerberos Pty Ltd.
</body></html>

Hellenic Republic premises sold by George Calombaris syndicate

<html><body>
A 60% surge of the funds outlaid by foreign investors for Australian commercial property has been recorded, with $5.9 billion spent in the last financial year, according to Savills Australia.
In the 12 months prior the funds totalled $3.5 billion.
Savills’ national head of research Tony Crabb said that the current figures are “unprecedented” and there's more to come.
Asian investors totalled $3.9 billion, or 67%. Meanwhile, North Americans and Europeans made their presence felt, with 18% and 15% of the spend respectively.
“The last 12 months buying activity is off the charts as far as recent history is concerned. It is almost as if they have been dipping their toe in the water, they like the temperature and now they are just diving right in,’’ Crabb said.
Australia’s reputation for stability, both in terms of the political and economic climates, remain the typical drivers according to Crabb.
“What has happened in the last 12 months for foreign investors is that circumstances at home are not as attractive in terms of returns – official interest rates are well below Australia’s - political and economic conditions may not be as stable, and property investment markets may not be as mature as Australia’s including restrictions on domestic investment,” he explained.
“In order to maintain growth and dynamism, companies, developers and investors are increasingly turning overseas to find new opportunities”.
Currently, 84% of foreign purchases are occurring in office markets, with 14% buying retail and 2% industrial. Asian investors make up two thirds of the spend in office markets. In total, foreign investors accounted for nearly 50% of CBD office market transactions in the last 12 months.
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

“Unprecedented” 60% surge in foreign investment in Australian commercial property

<html><body>
Capital values for office property in Australia’s major cities will rise as tenant demand increases and investors becoming more willing to accept lower yields, experts have forecast.
Competition for commercial properties in Australia is already strong with institutions such as sovereign wealth funds from Europe and Asia, real estate investment trusts and foreign private investors drawn to the markets by higher yields than available elsewhere.
“That influx [of investors] is really chasing high sustainable yields particularly in the office market,” Australian Unity head of property funds Mark Lumby said.
Office assets in Australia’s capital cities are producing yields of 6.5% to 7.5%, whereas similar assets in cities such as London, England yield only 3.5%, Lumby said at the manager’s quarterly outlook presentation to financial planners last week.
When global property market recover following economic downturns, yields on properties in gateway cities such as New York and London fall, and capital values rise, before that happens with similar properties in Australia and Asia, he said.
“Australian cities are late recovery markets and they will follow the gateway markets ... There’s still a lot of room for Sydney and Melbourne [office property yields] to tighten and as they tighten property prices will increase.”
Factors such as increasing supply and low tenant demand due to the weaker economy over the past few years had limited capital values in Australia’s cities, Lumby said.
However, foreign owners such as <a href="/news/the-ngs-singapores-richest-family-spend-425-million-on-sydney-trophy-property">Singapore-based Far East Organization have been buying office buildings in Sydney and Melbourne</a> and converting them into residential apartments. 
“By converting office space to residential they are effectively taking some stock out of the market and that’s keeping a lid on vacancy rates,” he said.
Vacancy rates nationally for office buildings are 10.7% on average, ranging from 8.4% in Sydney to 14.7% in Brisbane.
“As we see tenant demand come back from office tenants we should see some good growth in capital values from office,” Lumby said.
His views are echoed by forecasts made by Colliers International in its second half Research and Forecast Report for CBD office, released last week.
Colliers International predicts that based on new supply, withdrawals, pre-commitments, backfill and demand, the Sydney CBD office market is experiencing a prolonged recovery in vacancy rates.
Vacancy rates in Melbourne’s CBD office market fell in the first half of 2014, but Colliers believes this is only temporary as 67,000 square metres of new office space will be completed in the second half of the year which will push vacancy rates higher.
Despite the forecast increase in vacancy rates, Colliers International predicts strong rental growth for offices in Melbourne’s CBDs, or around 3.7%.
Sydney's market is expected to have the strongest rental growth with of 7.7%, driven by growing demand from information technology and telecommunication companies.
</body></html>

zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Foreign investors chasing high yields set to drive office capital values higher

<html><body>
No longer are Australia's main capital cities' office markets in sync.
During the last century, the CBD markets seemed to operate within a fairly regular 18-year cycle — in other words, from "peak to peak".
However, all at ceased when the global financial crisis hit in 2008.
In the lead up to that, developers in Sydney and Melbourne had predominantly undertaken projects with significant tenant pre-commitments.
Brisbane and Perth had seen a huge amount of speculative development occur — driven by the hype of the mining boom.
<img src="https://his-best.biz/assets/2014/08/CBD-Offices.jpg" alt="CBD-Offices">
Source: Property Council of Australia, via Fairfax.
The Wash Up?
As the table above confirms, there is now a massive disparity between the various capital city office markets.  
<blockquote>
Sydney and Melbourne were the only cities to improve their vacancy.
</blockquote>
As you can see, the latest PCA survey shows Sydney and Melbourne were the only cities to improve their vacancy for office space, over the past six months.
For Brisbane and Perth, vacancy rates have clearly blown out, while demand is actually falling.
Over the period, you saw the vacancy rate for Sydney decline from 9% to 8.4%. Similarly, the rate for Melbourne dropped from 8.7% to 8.5% and sits at around just 4%, for Docklands.
The Mining States
By contrast, the vacancy rate in Brisbane rose from 14.2% to 14.7%. It will most likely hover around this level for the next few years.
The Perth market is not far behind — with its vacancy rate rising from 9% to 11.8%, over the past 6 months. As with Brisbane, demand for space has declined; and Perth's vacancy rate may creep even higher, over the next few years.
Looking Forward
Since late last year, the Sydney and Melbourne markets have certainly improved. And you are already seeing major investment from overseas buyers — keen to capitalise on the upturn, and rising prices.
Unfortunately, Brisbane and Perth are probably lagging between three to four years behind — because of the huge amount of vacant space needing to be absorbed.
Bottom line: You can expect the Sydney and Melbourne office markets to grow solidly over the next four or five years — and are likely to peak around 2019/20.
That may well be the time for you to switch your investing to Brisbane and Perth — as they will then be enjoying their recovery phase.
</body></html>

chrislang-EQKojcgJPV

There are now massive disparities between capital city office markets

<html><body>
NAME: Charles Farru-Hill<img src="/images/2014/08/27/Charles-Farru-Hill-profile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
POSITION: Associate director, facilities and commercial property management
COMPANY: Raine &amp; Horne Commercial
OFFICE LOCATION: Subiaco
How long have you been in the industry? 
17 years
What’s happening in the area you specialise in?
We are having to work harder in retaining tenants and owners are still reticent about upgrading their properties to make them more sustainable.
Describe the most interesting commercial property you have worked on? 
An old office building in Freo, Did a NABERS Energy assessment and a tenancy lighting assessment as the property was going up for sale. Because of its age the building performed badly and I put forward a plan of action to improve the buildings performance. In the end the property was sold before we could actually start the project.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job? 
Patience, good humour, numerous and being analytical
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most? 
Undertaking NABERS assessments on buildings and advising clients how the performance off their buildings can be improved to benefit both them and their tenants. Then working to achieve those goals.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000? 
In one of the new industrial estates in northern suburbs of Perth
Which football team do you support? 
Western Force and The Harlequins (Rugby Union is the only real football code!)
What’s your favourite app or techno gadget? 
Leasa by RICS, an excellent comparison tool for determining energy costs of larger buildings and tenancies.
How do you use social media?
I utilise both Twitter and <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/pub/charles-farru-hill/23/60/b1b" target="_blank">LinkedIn </a>to maintain a professional presence on social media
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

In profile: Raine & Horne Commercial's associate director, facilities and commercial property management, Charles Farru-Hill

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The $1.425 billion Westfield World Trade Center in New York continues to make good progress, now over 70% pre-leased. 
The landmark project<a href="https://wtc.westfield.com/index" target="_blank"> is expected to open in late 2015</a>. Its aim is 150 global brand tenants.
Westfield, together with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, is developing a 365,000 square foot shopping and dining complex in Manhattan’s iconic World Trade Center. 
The project will feature multiple levels including the WTC Transportation Hub and concourses that run throughout the <a href="https://www.westfieldcorp.com/new-developments/" target="_blank">entire World Trade Center site in</a><a href="https://www.westfieldcorp.com/new-developments/" target="_blank"> Lower Manhattan</a>.
The development leasing is being overseen by David Ruddick who sits on the Global Leasing Committee of Westfield. 
His experience in the shopping center industry extends over 25 years, having led leasing in Westfield Sydney. He has also headed the leasing of Westfield Brazil, and held senior roles in London and Italy.
It was 2011 when the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey struck a deal with shopping centre operator Westfield which won the rights to redevelop that retail in mid-2001 but sold its stake in the property back to the Port Authority after the terrorist attack.
The New York leasing advisory was contained within today's half year announcements which indicted the newly formed company outlook and forecasts are consistent with the information contained in the security holder booklet for the recent restructure.
 
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Westfield Corporation was formed on 30 June 2014, following the restructure of the Westfield Group.
“We are very pleased with the performance of both Westfield Corporation and Scentre Group since the announcement and completion of the restructure," Westfield Corporation chairman Frank Lowy said.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
"As of today, with the new entities combined market capitalisation of approximately A$35bn, the restructure has created A$4.5bn of value for the shareholders of the former Westfield Group and Westfield Retail Trust.” 
WFD has assets under management of $27.7 billion, with balance sheet assets of $19.2 billion and a gearing ratio of 35.1% at 30 June 2014.
WFD’s portfolio of 40 shopping centres in the United States and United Kingdom has a strategy to focus on creating and operating iconic assets in major markets that deliver great experiences for consumers and retailers. 
"We aim to achieve this with an increased focus on digital technology and by bringing together the best of fashion, food, entertainment and leisure.”
WFD’s portfolio achieved comparable net operating income growth of 5.3% for the six months ending 30 June 2014. 
WFD’s flagship portfolio of 11 centres representing 66% of the total portfolio (by value), achieved comparable net operating income growth of 5.5% for the six month period. WFD’s Regional portfolio of 23 centres representing 30% of the total portfolio (by value), achieved comparable net operating income growth of 5.0%.
Portfolio specialty sales productivity was $681 per square foot with comparable specialty retail sales up 4.2% for the year ending 30 June 2014. The flagship portfolio achieved specialty retail sales of $954 per square foot, up 5.8% with the Regional portfolio achieving specialty retail sales of $467 per square foot, up 2.1%. 
“Specialty sales performance in our flagship portfolio is pleasing. We continue our focus on investing in high quality assets, introducing a diverse range of global retailers in our portfolio and, through Westfield Labs, digital innovation,” Steven Lowy said. 
At 30 June 2014, the portfolio was 94.4% leased, slightly up from June last year, with the flagship portfolio at 95.9% leased and the regional portfolio at 93.1% leased. 
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

New York's Westfield World Trade Center 70% pre-leased 

<html><body>
Global property portal Lamudi have shared their 10 tell-tale signs that you are ready to start building a property portfolio.
Here are their 10 indicators to look out for:
<ol>
<li>
You are financially ready You have saved enough for the down payment and you have also established your emergency fund. You have taken into account home maintenance expenses. Your credit history is good and you are able to meet all the financial obligations. 
</li>
<li>
You have set your long-term goals You have a clear picture in your mind of the purpose of your investment and you are flexible enough to adjust to changing circumstances. You are not hesitant and when the timing is right, you are able to adapt to the market needs and the development of technologies. 
</li>
<li>
You have done your research You know the neighborhood of your future property well enough to foresee the coming trends and the possible changes in the community. You have researched all the schools in the area as well as the best commuting means and you are able to predict the next home buyers needs. 
</li>
<li>
You have chosen a stable economy The area is financially stable, economic trends are promising and equities are surging. No demographic fluctuation or no irregular variation of population have been recorded in the area. 
</li>
<li>
You understand the country’s policies regarding real estate The policies of the region promote and encourage a positive, innovative environment as well as drive further economic growth. The tax policy in the country is positive for homeowners. Global innovation index is rising in the area. 
</li>
<li>
Infrastructure projects are underway and likely to lead to an increase in property values The infrastructure of the area is being developed with a focus on: transport, energy, solid waste and water management developments. 
</li>
<li>
The region is moving toward sustainable development The region’s awareness of global and local environmental issues is increasing, the demand for eco-friendly homes as well as for sustainable rural and urban development is rising. As more and more people head toward sustainable living, investing in sustainable property will increase its value in the future. 
</li>
<li>
The location draws a lot of interest Whether it is the best travel destination or the hot jobs spot, the location is always on the top of the search engine. It has become a successful startup hub already or is planning to do so in the coming years, driving a lot of job seekers into the area. The number of enrolled students is increasing every year, the area draws interest of international students. 
</li>
<li>
You have found a reliable real estate agent If you are an overseas buyer, it is particularly crucial to make sure you have a good representative on the ground. Your real estate agent is trustworthy and knows the local market well enough to be able to help you make the choice. 
</li>
<li>
You have researched local differences in the property market Whether you plan to invest in a residential property and turn it into a rental or an office space, you are fully aware of all cultural differences that might occur when you deal with a property seller.
</li>
</ol>
You may want to balance them out with <a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-10-signs-that-you-may-not-be-ready-to-buy">these 10 signs that you may not be ready to buy a property yet</a>.
</body></html>

The 10 signs you’re ready to start investing in property: Lamudi

<html><body>
That first picture of your property understandable needs to be one of the best.
It should be inviting and presentable, the type of photo that makes your prospective buyer just want to click on it. Of course, it must also stand out – when a buyer is browsing through tens, if not hundreds, of similar listings it makes sense that yours needs to command attention.
Real estate photographers and real estate agents are increasingly becoming savvy on how to make that first listings picture pop. While some are making careful choices not to include the front façade in a listing, which makes sense if it’s not much to look at, others are playing with another factor to make them stand out – taking the photos by night.
We’re talking almost full darkness. While plenty take beautiful photographs in the sunset, or when it’s a bit darker to show off the lights of the property (for instance, this<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-pullenvale-117619943" target="_blank"> this Pullenvale, Queensland listing</a>, picture above, which plays beautifully with light on the exterior), it’s rarer but often effective to see a house in the late evening.
This South Australia, Northgate property at 5 Kingston Parade is a three bedroom, two bathroom offering for a price guide of $1,049,000 to $1,149,000. It’s being <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-northgate-107656001" target="_blank">marketed through Refined Real Estate Plympton</a>.
They made the decision to shoot the brightly-lit up façade in the dark. It matches its name – also called Lightsview – and does actually work to show off the modern lines of the house. Included in the listing is a shot of the home in the light and, comparing the two, we think it’s a wise decision to have used the evening shot as the main listing image.
Shooting the rest of the house at night works for some rooms, although it would’ve been nice to see some inviting sunshine in the garage shot.
Coupled with some descriptive copywriting, that invites you to “Enjoy stunning views of the sweeping city skyline, in the warmer months have a sip of champagne whilst sitting in your spa, alternatively, cosy up with a glass of red next to the huge roaring feature fire,” we think they’ve done a great job at conjuring up a luxury lifestyle with this listing.
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/nothgate%20aug%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/nothgate%20aug%2026%20two.jpg" alt="">
From Spins &amp; Co Residential – Brisbane, a very wise decision was made to include the night-time shot on the listing as the main image. The six bedroom, four bathroom offering, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-upper+brookfield-116644851" target="_blank">654 Upper Brookfield Road, Upper Brookfield</a>, benefits hugely from careful decisions are the light in the photographs. The palatial, stunning façade seems to lose something of its grandeur in the day-time listing.
The rest of the house has been, very thoughtfully, photographed during daylight hours, easily showing off the airy rooms and beauty of the gardens. It really does seem to have been a decision that pays off in terms of the presentation of this home.
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/upper%20brookfiled%20aug%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/upper%20brookfield%20aug%2026%20tow.jpg" alt="">
This Queensland<a href="https://%20http:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-balmoral-117734083" target="_parent"> listing for 35 Ryan Avenue, Balmoral </a>through Place Bulimba has the main image being of the swimming pool in the night. While the sky is very blue, to the point of being questionably real, the property shines through the dark.
It’s a good choice of image as well, running with the pool, as the actual front façade shot doesn’t quite do the home justice.
It’s up for auction on September 18.
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/balmoral%20aug%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
Another <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-buderim-117093903" target="_blank">Queensland offering, at 4-6 Pacific View Parade, Buderim</a> also uses darkness to great effect in its main photo. Clearly the shoot took place over a late-afternoon and evening, with some lighter than the others, but the cosyness that this property is given from the gloom, coupled with bright lights, is clear.
Looking for $1,175,000, the five-bedroom, four-bedroom property is noted as being under contract. We think the dimness really suits the resort-style home, allowing it to show off some pretty fancy light fittings.
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/buderin%20aug%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
However, this home’s night time shot is a little questionable. <a href="https://%20http:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-gatton-117260795" target="_blank">The Gatton, Queensland listing at 72 Highway Avenue</a> could really do with some lights towards the front of the driveway, or a different angle for the photo, particularly for their main image. In fact, some of the other day time shots might actually have been preferable.
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/gatton%20aug%2026%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/gatton%20aug%2026%20two.jpg" alt="">
{module When do you think the best time is to take a feature image for a home?}
</body></html>

Do atmospheric late-evening listings photos work?

<html><body>
Yesterday, Property Observer shared Onthehouse’s data for Sydney’s top streets with $1 million plus properties, in regards to the percentage of houses valued at this amount.
In fact, <a href="/news/nsw/23-4-of-sydney-metro-properties-over-1-million-here-s-the-richest-street">almost 25% of Sydney’s metro properties were valued at $1 million</a> and upwards.
We don’t want Sydney to have all the fun. Onthehouse have also shared the mainland states and territories’ top streets with the highest percentages of houses over $1 million.
Here are the seven streets you should know about:
<img src="/images/2014/08/26/onthe-aug-26-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au
Which street were you most surprised about? 
</body></html>

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News