<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

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Strong residential sales contributed to Mirvac posting a strong profit for the year, up from $139 million to $447 million.
And Mirvac signalled plans to "accelerate releases and pushing price where appropriate." 
The property group secured $1.2 billion in residential pre-sales contracts and settled 2,482 residential lots. 
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Some 50% of Mirvac’s future expected revenue will be derived from apartments, the veteran apartment developer announced. 
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The Mirvac CEO Susan Lloyd-Hurwitz described the year as “tremendously successful” on the profit release today.
"Our residential business performed well in FY14 with market conditions improving in key locations.
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"We acquired $248 million of residential development projects over the year, substantially restocking the development pipeline to provide long-term earnings benefits to the group. 
"All acquisitions were on-strategy and are expected to deliver a weighted average IRR of more than 18%.
"In addition to this, we completed seven englobo sales ahead of schedule, providing an opportunity for the redeployment of cash across the business." 
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Total revenue rose 26% to $1.982 billion for the year. Operating profit was $337.6 million.
Lloyd-Hurwitz said Mirvac achieved a 10.5% development return on invested capital at year end, ahead of its target of 10%, and "we substantially restocked our residential and commercial development pipeline to deliver future earnings”.
However the result suggested the strong sales and price momentum in 1H14 carried through at "slightly reduced" pace into 2H14.
"Further price growth expected, albeit at a more modest pace," it suggested though ncreased stock levels were insufficient to overcome national undersupply.
The report acknowledged high levels of activity from offshore buyers in select locations and product types.
"Demand volumes will continue to grow; driven by tight rental vacancy, population growth and strengthening economy."
The report suggested the residential recovery was "likely to extend beyond Sydney into other capital cities" as a result of population growth, sustained low interest rate environment and general undersupply nationally.
Mirvac said it was focussed on "developing and acquiring residential development projects in line with strategic mandates targeted to deliver gross margins of 18% to 22%."
 
Mirvac said the residential market was supported by strong financial fundamentals 
—  Modest credit growth does not indicate signs of overheating
—  Role of investors in the market is strong, although upgraders have grown by a greater proportion across all markets
—  Households have improved net debt positions significantly driven by increased savings.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Mirvac joins the strong profit season for property developers

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Contrary to popular perception, the average tenant is not a student, nor even an individual living alone.
A Tenants Union of Victoria report notes that around a quarter of all households across the state are lived in by tenants – more than a million people. The report, based on the 2011 Census, found that 42% of private tenants were couples with children or single parent families.
Another 23% were couple only households, while less than a third of tenants were group households or living alone.
Tenants Union of Victoria policy and liaison officer James Bennett said that renting is no longer the transitional step towards home ownership.
“We know that more people are renting for longer but our culture and laws don’t always reflect this. Over a third of all private tenants in Australia have been renting for over 10 years; however this doesn't necessarily mean a decade in the same rental house,” he said.
Bennett noted that overseas, greater security of tenure in rental housing, with longer leases becoming the norm and more narrowly defined reasons for eviction are seen.
“There is no good reason for ‘no reason notices to vacate’ to exist. Secure and appropriate housing leads to better outcomes for tenants and society - it is good public policy and should be reflected in our tenancy laws,” Bennett said.
The TUV has been calling for minimum standards for rental properties to be introduced in Victoria – a change that will be seen from October 1 in Tasmania.
At present, landlords can legally rent out a property with no heating, weatherproofing, window coverings or hot water.
“Investment in good housing stock is a good investment – the cost of any improvements are easily outweighed by the longer term value to the landlord, the tenant and society. In addition, owners of investment properties can negatively gear the cost of improvements, reducing the cost impact of implementing minimum standards. There is no reason to believe landlords will ‘disinvest’ due to minimum standards."
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<a href="/news/nsw/vandals-set-the-garage-on-fire-and-three-fire-alarms-failed-to-work-is-your-tenant-living-in-squalor">Vandals set the garage on fire, and three fire alarms failed to work: How it happened</a>
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

What does the average tenant look like? Hint: Not a student, or single

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Victorian real estate agencies Barry Plant and hockingstuart have partnered to launch YourPorter.
The new industry-run business allows real estate agents to connect renters with electricity, gas, water, telecommunications and pay television services, and delivers benefits YourPorter to agents. 
According to Nigel O'Neil, managing director and chief executive of hockingstuart, agents will receive commissions and equity in exchange for referrals to utility suppliers including AGL, Origin, Telstra and Foxtel.
“Agents are the sole source of leads for utility connections businesses, yet traditionally their commissions have been relatively low,” says O'Neil.
“YourPorter’s mandate is to ensure that real estate businesses derive maximum value from utility connections on both an income and capital basis.
“We’re doing this by paying industry leading commission rates and allocating 47% of the equity in the YourPorter business directly to the agencies that refer utility connections. This type of opportunity does not exist with our competitors,” he explains.
Barry Plant Real Estate chief executive Mike McCarthy says "YourPorter is about regaining a level of control over our data and relationships", given the "concerning level of influence" third party businesses like property portals have with clients. 
"As real estate agents, we’re increasingly realising the importance of leveraging our client relationships to create value in our business," he notes.
Tony Zarka, the former national business manager of Direct Connect Australia, will oversee YourPorter as general manager. He claims the service is a "game changer".
"It’s taking the reins off external providers and provides consumers with a service that is convenient, fast and reliable because it’s in the hands of the people who really understand the property market and the dramas of moving house – real estate agents,” he says.
The business offers a same-day connection guarantee, and an emergency accommodation option if required. Through the "Porter Club" incentive scheme, individual real estate agency offices can also give employees "points" that can be converted into dollars on a personal debit card.
YourPorter had a "soft launch" in late 2013 across Barry Plant and hockingstuart agencies, and is now offered to the national real estate industry. According to O'Neil, Buxton, Hodges, Fletchers and Jellis Craig have supported the business.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Barry Plant and hockingstuart launch utility connections service for renters

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GUEST OBSERVATION
With limited stock available for buyers to choose from and the average amount of bidder at an auction still sitting comfortably around two, buyers are likely to be feeling the pressure when it comes to trying to ‘win’ the home they want at auction.
Now, more than ever, strategy is likely to play an even more important role in your success on the day.  Having been involved in over 50 properties for sale this year, our success (or purchase) rate is sitting at almost 90%.
Some buyers may believe professional bidders are more successful just because the buyers they represent have more money.  It would be great if this were true. However, why would someone who is guaranteed to have more money than everybody else need to use a buyer advocate? The fact of the matter is that it is almost impossible to guarantee anyone will have the most money. So maybe it’s not about money, maybe it’s about strategy.
One example is a property bought earlier in the year in <a href="/news">Hampton</a>.  The strategies resulted in the property being purchased for $102,000 less than the underbidder paid for a near identical home in a lesser street, less than one month later.  There were three parties bidding, yet the underbidders stopped – why?  The first underbidder’s later purchase shows they had more money.  Why did they choose to stop? Was it just they assessed value at a $102,000 difference? Maybe, but probably not? So
<ul>
<li>Was it lack of preparation?</li>
<li>Was it uncertainty?</li>
<li>Was it nervousness?</li>
<li>Was it stress?</li>
<li>Was it inexperience?</li>
</ul>
Nobody knows for sure, all we know is, it wasn’t lack of money.
Some buyers may believe that the next best solution is to just keep bidding. However, this could be a risky strategy if you haven’t done your research on the property’s strengths and weaknesses and values, particularly if you find yourself needing to sell in a market that may not be moving in the same direction as the one we are currently experiencing.
Kristen Hatt is principal buyer advocate at <a class="company-profile-public" href="https://au.linkedin.com/company/james-buyer-advocates?trk=ppro_cprof" target="_blank">James Buyer Advocates</a>, which advocates on behalf of buyers of property over $1 million. Weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis are available on James' website.
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khatt-NFnzuhDNoP

Winning at auction isn't amount having the most money, it's about strategy

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GUEST OBSERVATION
As little girls growing up, we have all seen the Disney animated fairy tales where the prince rescues the commoner and falls in love, or the Hollywood movie ‘happy ever after’ endings.
As women, we have been conditioned from a very young age by the media, the entertainment industry and even our families to assume we will meet our dream man (or woman), settle down and maybe even have children.  And of course, we will live happily ever after…
While there is always the chance of that coming to fruition, what they don’t tell you is how it can turn to muck very quickly and what the consequences of this can be if it happens!
For those of us who have been around the block a couple of times, we have all seen, heard of, or experienced the effects of a marriage or de facto coupling and an ensuing separation or divorce. For those who haven’t experienced it, you may well have grown up in a single parent family yourself and witnessed the emotional and financial devastation that can be wreaked upon a family when this happens.
Did you know, 40 years after equal pay, women still earn on average 21% less than men? Which means they have less income to meet their everyday expenses - and less to contribute to their superannuation.
And that’s before we factor in the need for many of us to leave workforce to have children. Taking time out from our careers to raise kids results in less contributions to our super and study after study shows that once women return to work they find less opportunities for career advancement.
What this all adds up to is that women, by definition, have a harder time achieving their financial independence.
That can leave women socially and economically vulnerable to the three deadly financial Ds if they are reliant on their partners: divorce, death and desertion.
If these strike, a woman approaching middle age can find herself without her financial independence or worse facing retirement with what some have coined ‘Middle class homelessness’; facing old age with precious little income and the indignity of having to share accommodation.
At the end of the day, the most important way women can empower themselves is by being financially independent. This allows a woman to have choices - be it to leave an abusive or controlling relationship or simply take time out between jobs if so desired.
As a child in the 1970s, I got to live first hand with all of the consequences of the divorce when my parents parted ways. What was most evident to me in this situation as a female, was the importance of a solid education (beyond the limited education my mother had as a result of growing up in Europe during WW2). And especially the importance of having your own money and savings. This in itself would have provided so many more options for my mother once divorced. We were luckier than many as Dad paid his maintenance and were always fed, clothed and had a roof over our head, but I dread to think of the consequences if this wasn’t the case.
Fast forward a few decades, and looking back after my own divorce, I can see how my emotions and the consequences of social conditioning got in my way and ultimately cost me money.
For example, when I divorced, my ex benefited financially from my investment activity (I should have stayed firm about us signing a pre-nup but I allowed emotions to get in the way).
Even though I came out of it still being able to buy my own home and with some investments still intact, the biggest lessons for me were;
<ol>
<li>Don’t wait for others to get the ball rolling when it comes to creating your own financial independence because time is of the essence. This thing called compound growth has a massive impact on your financial outcome and for every 10 years you wait, your wealth decreases by half!</li>
<li>Always keep your emotions out of it when making financial decisions. This is what leads to bad decisions being made time and time again. Deal in facts and move forward on that basis.</li>
<li>While the fairy tale may happen, hope for the best but always plan for the worst. Seek professional advice around investment structuring and how to protect your assets that you bring into a relationship, especially if you plan to have children. Think pre-nup, even if your assets are equal going into the defacto or marriage arrangement.</li>
<li>If you have or plan to have children, you must factor in the time you will have away from the workforce and how this will affect your income and your ability to fund your retirement via superannuation contributions.</li>
<li>Consider the ‘sandwich’ generation of women and plan accordingly. These are women with older kids still living at home who may also need to take time out of work to care for ageing parents.</li>
<li>
As nurturers, many women tend to put others ahead of themselves, sacrificing their own needs and financial security in the process. It is not selfish to create your own financial security ahead of helping your children. In fact it’s important to teach your daughters in particular to look after themselves first. I see plenty of 50 year old female clients who are torn trying to decide if they should buy their children a home to give them a helping hand, or buy themselves a home or create income for retirement. To be blunt - stop it! If women don’t look after themselves first, they can’t help their children and never assume your kids will look after you in return. They simply may not be able to, or could have a spouse who could prevent it from happening. This is a contributing factor to the increase of ‘middle class homelessness’ among women aged 50 plus.
</li>
<li>Don’t assume gold digging is a female only trait. As I have gotten older I see plenty of men seeking to hook up with women who are financially secure. They may be toy boys looking for a sugar mummy or older men who have themselves hit hard times or divorced, so protect your assets and learn what situations, such as living with a partner, can make you financially vulnerable. Then put agreements in place to protect yourself.</li>
</ol>
While it may appear that I am painting a picture of doom and gloom, it’s a sad reality for many and will only get worse over time if women don’t start taking action to empower themselves financially.
In the meantime, go forth and prosper!
<a href="https://www.miriamsandkuhler.com.au/">Miriam Sandkuhler</a> is the founder of <a href="https://www.propertymavens.com.au/" target="_blank">Property Mavens</a> - a specialist property advisory firm based in Melbourne.
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MiriamSandkuhler-brdvzrAYV2

The most important way women can empower themselves is by being financially independent

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A corner development site at the junction of Main Road and Fairbank Road, Clayton will go to auction this Friday with $900,000 expectations through Crabtrees Real Estate.
The site known as 91-93 Main Road has a land area of 1,885 square metre with an older style brick workshop building that has been occupied by a motor repairer for many years. 
It has a building of 388 square metre with the remainder of the level site vacant. 
Crabtrees agent Casper Janholt notes that the property holds an Industrial 1 zoning.
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Clayton industrial site with development potential to go under the hammer this Friday

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Shopping centre income growth is expected to be steady but falling behind CPI for the next five years, according to BIS Shrapnel’s Retail Property Market 2014 to 2024 report.
According to senior project manager and report author Maria Lee, there are a number of factors that are constraining income growth prospects. These fundamentally relate to economic growth and household spending in aggregate.
Lee pointed to these four reasons:
<ol>
<li>Modest GDP growth as the economy transitions away from resources investment to more broadly-based growth.</li>
<li>Slowing population growth as 457 visas decline and net long term departures increase.</li>
<li>Household disposable income growth averaging just 2.6% per annum compared with a 25 year average of 3.3%.</li>
<li>Retail turnover growth averaging 2.9% per annum—slightly ahead of income growth due to an easing in the savings rate, but well below the 3.8% long-term average.</li>
</ol>
<img src="/images/2014/08/20/chart%20of%20the%20day%20aug%2020%20breakout.png" alt="">
Source: <a href="https://www.bis.com.au/" target="_blank">BIS Shrapnel</a>, ABS.
Lee also pointed to factors that impact the distribution of aggregate expenditure between physical shops and online, as well as between differnet shopping centres. Online shopping, for instance, was estimated to be set to remove 0.5% per annum from turnover growth to shopping centres and retail building commencements hitting a new high over the next financial year having an effect.
“Add all these factors together, and we predict that shopping centre incomes will average around 2.6% annual growth over the next five years, failing to keep pace with inflation," she said.
“The saving grace for shopping centres is that the bulk of their income is subject to fixed annual escalations, putting a support under the rate of growth and reducing volatility from year to year."
The report suggested that retail investors work to mitigate the impact by changing tenancy mixes, marketing in smarter ways to consumers and even adding attractions.
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Four reasons shopping centre incomes will continue to fall below inflation: BIS Shrapnel

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Gloria Jean’s Coffees has leased a 22 square metre retail space at Melbourne’s Flinders Street train station.
The rental was not disclosed, however deals in the area have been done in excess of $5,000 per square metre per annum.
It is Gloria Jean’s ninth in the Melbourne CBD, including two Docklands stores.
It is a sublease from Melbourne Metro Trains with Gloria Jeans taking a 10 year lease for the space at the Elizabeth Street junction.
Savills’s Michael Di Carlo and Jock Thomson brokered the lease deal.
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Gloria Jeans takes Flinders Street Station space

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An undisclosed religious group has purchased Hobart’s historic Gasworks Village, located at the entrance to Hobart City.
It sold for around $7.5 million, its first sale for 21 years when sold for $300,000 to developer Robert Hosken.
Located at 2 Macquarie Street, the property forms part of the historic Sullivans Cove Precinct.
Knight Frank’s Tasmania chief Scott Newton negotiated the sale reflecting a yield of 7%.
The historic strata property was redeveloped in 1995 as a commercial hub currently tenanted to Vantage Hotel Group and Hogs Breath Café.
The remaining three lots were sold as vacant.
The Hobart Gas Company was established by an act of parliament in 1854 and started pumping gas from the site in 1857.
The town gas supply ended in 1978.
The buildings that remain include the original engine house and the stables.
 
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Hobart's historic Gasworks site sold for $7.5 million

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The Sydney Opera House has signed a 10 year agreement with the Solotel group to operate the Opera Bar.
The group includes principals Bruce Solomon, Anna Solomon and John Gallas from Solotel, and Matt Moran and Peter Sullivan from MorSul. 
Solotel has operated the venue since 2001.
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