Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Brisbane

<html><body>
<div class="span-12">
Former Australian cricketer Ryan Harris and wife Cherie have sold their Balmoral home for $1.45 million.
Harris, currently a consultant coach at Cricket Australia, renovated the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-balmoral-124529834" target="_blank">five bedroom home</a> somewhat from its $1,245,000 purchase in 2010.
He built an entertaining area and deck with an outdoor kitchen.
The home took over 110 days to sell through Ray White East Brisbane agent Tony O'Doherty.
Harris retains a three bedroom home in Morningside just outside of Brisbane that was rented at $550 a week late last year.
He made 27 Test appearances for Australia.
This article was first published in The Weekend Australian property section.
 
 
</div>
<div id="expandedMapDiv" class="span-24 last">
<div id="imageTabsPanel" class="detailPanel last span-24">
<div id="expandedAddress">
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Former cricketer Ryan Harris sells in Balmoral

<html><body>
SPONSORED POST
Sam Khalil's property investment outlook investigates and dissects recent market changes that Australian property investors should be aware of.
In part one, Sam Khalil gave his thoughts on <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sam-khalil-s-property-investment-outlook-part-one">Australian property investment in 2017</a>.  He looked at performance in the capital cities and identified regions that will continue to grow despite changing market forces. 
In part two, Sam investigates and dissects recent market changes that property investors should be aware of.
Stricter lending rules
There are far tighter lending guidelines than ever before. This has all been generated by ASIC, worried about high levels of risk in a red hot market.  It has trickled down to all the major lenders. CBA and Bankwest are refusing to refinance investors. While AMP will no longer offer new investor loans through their mortgage channel. Other lenders such as MyState have imposed a 12 basis point margin on all variable and fixed rates, for both investment and residential loans. Meanwhile APRA is bringing in a 10 percent speed limit for investors. There could be more restrictions on the horizon with APRA worried about the level of risk in the market.
Overall lenders are charging more for investment loans and then again for interest only. This will make people revaluate their lenders and question if they will purchase at all.
Foreigners locked out of the market
There has been a distinct clamping down on foreign investment over the last year. Westpac is not writing loans for non-residents, ANZ is no longer lending to non-residents and the CBA is following suit. Other banks have similar tight restrictions. The sum effect has been that foreign investors are walking away in droves, many unable to get funding. This in turn will have a flow on effect to the construction industry, impacting on the number of new builds. There’s also speculation that foreign investors will favour apartments over houses even more than they currently do because they need a lesser deposit.
Development slowing down
Developers have seen significant tightening in lending for projects. This has slowed down supply, which may be a stabilising measure to avoid any large property bubble bursting.  Banks have especially tightened down on lending to residential property developers with an oversupply of apartments and high-rise towers an especial concern. This has led to many developers to put projects on hold and others look to for alternate funding.
Shortage of land
There’s a desperate demand for new land supply in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/macarthur-the-sleeping-giant-of-sydney" target="_blank">Sydney’s fringe</a> as well as Wollongong and Newcastle. Developers are finding it extremely difficult to process land through local councils and then register the land. We must hope that the NSW government can fast track services to bring land to the market sooner so pricing doesn’t continue to increase dramatically due to lack of supply. This is the primary issue affecting housing affordability: land supply and how quickly it arrives to the market. Remember there’s always a lag between development and construction and the frantic nature of the market itself.
Apartment oversupply
There’s a real concern about apartment oversupply in the major capital cities, especially in Melbourne. The Commonwealth Bank estimates 140,000 new apartments will be built in the city from 2016 to 2018. This oversupply will ultimately lead to a drop in prices. Some experts are anticipating drastic drops of up to 20 percent in some suburbs by 2019.  So projected growth for apartments in many major cities has hit its peak and is estimated to correct or be sideways for next 5-8 years, with owners losing money and not getting capital growth. So there’s a clear message here: be very wary of apartment purchasing for the next few years. Research the area and project meticulously.
The global market
Well, it’s almost impossible not to talk about the political upheavals last year. From Brexit through to Trump it was a year of surprises. Trump’s avowal to increase spending around infrastructure and his distancing from the Asia trade pacts will certainly have an effect on Australia. His promise to pour money into defence and infrastructure will act as a fiscal stimulus. It’ll also mean lots of capital fleeing Australia and going into the USA. Potentially Australia will have to lift interest rates to compete and keep capital here. This in turn will effect market sentiment. Properties and projects that are vulnerable will be exposed awfully quickly.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-investment-outlook-part-two-winter-2017" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sam Khalil’s property investment outlook - part two

<html><body><div class="small-10 large-6 print-8 print-offset-1 columns titles vgrid vgrid-small-1 vgrid-small-offset-top-3">
SPONSORED POST
The Australian property market is shifting and changing thanks to a multitude of forces. DPN's Managing Director, Sam Khalil shares his thoughts on the current market and reveals property investment opportunities in the Wollongong, Newcastle and Brisbane areas.
The last five years have seen a phenomenal surge in the demand for property. It’s been a perfect storm of consistently low interest rates; an endless, thirsty demand for stock and foreign investment at record high levels. This in turn pushed up construction and new builds and kept up supply.
However, like all good things it had to come to an end. This is not to say the market is in trouble by any means. More that it’s no longer like 2012 or 2013 where property investment was like shooting fish in a barrel. Almost anyone with a little knowledge and a lot of luck could do well in the prosperous conditions.
But things have changed in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-outlook-for-summer-2016" target="_blank">the last 12 months</a> and so 2017 and beyond will still present golden opportunities, but only for the canny and well researched investor.
How property investment is changing in the capital cities
2016 saw Melbourne and Sydney continue to rise significantly compared to other Australian cities. Despite gloom and doom predictions - remember there were lots of experts claiming Melbourne would slump in 2016 and that Sydney would stagnate - both cities outperformed expectations. In fact, dwelling prices rose 15.5 percent in Sydney whilst Melbourne had a rise of 13.7 percent for the year.
Perth had experienced seven quarters of negative growth and is in major recovery mode after its boom and bust. However, it may well have reached the bottom and signs are that it’s slowly starting to ascend. In the last 3 months there has been a small increase in property prices for the first time in a long time. It’s still a long way back, but investors who can’t afford the big capital cities may start looking in this direction.
Brisbane started a gentle ascent and should continue to find value in housing and land appreciation, whilst inner city apartments may experience price correction as I detail in part two.
So how will 2017/2018 play out? I’m confident we’ll see rises in Sydney and Melbourne as demand and sentiment still remain positive. Brisbane investment property will continue to follow closely behind. The lending measures that may impact the market and sentiment are the move in interest rates from lenders separate to the Reserve Bank.
Look to the regions
Land in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/macarthur-the-sleeping-giant-of-sydney" target="_blank">South Western Sydney</a>, Wollongong and Newcastle remains very tight with strong local and investment demand helping sustain and increase prices of land.  These areas will only continue to grow in 2017. It’s not just investors but we’re seeing many Sydney “refugees” – that is younger owner-occupiers - who are moving to these areas in search of houses they can afford. Because all three areas are within coo-ee of Sydney and they all have their own strong infrastructure and local economy they are highly desirable and will continue to rise.
It’s worth noting that Brisbane is also showing signs of upward movement in land values in the metro area. And not just Brisbane itself, but even further out there’s some very strong opportunities as we recently noted in the case of <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/why-springfield-brisbane-is-a-hot-investment" target="_blank">Springfield</a>.
Overall forecast
So what does all this tell us? Sam Khalil’s outlook is positive, there are a myriad of opportunities in the market. Which, as we know, are really <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/how-to-guides/what-is-a-property-market" target="_blank">many different markets</a>.
The caveat being that one has to be more selective as market forces could change due to macro economic factors and policy changes by the regulators as well as the oversupply of apartments. This apartment oversupply poses the greatest risk for investors. It’s a cautionary reminder of not buying through emotion. Or buying the wrong product at the wrong time.
There are some excellent prospects for property investment in the right areas that may not fit investors’ usual comfort zones. 2017/2018 will definitely be about hunting in different fields, certainly not in the usual areas that investors have been doing.
So there won’t be any quick rewards from backing the same winners of the past five years. The investors that will do well in the next 12 months will be those who put in the solid research and are prepared to look in other areas off their normal radar. As always: if you put in the work, the research and don’t automatically follow the herd, you can reap great rewards.
In part two, Sam Khalil investigates and dissects recent market changes that <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sam-khalil-s-property-investment-outlook-part-two">property investors should be aware of</a>.  He covers lending policy, slowing development and challenges with land and apartment supply.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-investment-outlook-part-one-winter-2017" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
</div></body></html>

Sam Khalil’s property investment outlook - part one

<html><body><div class="heading">
Australian cricketers are trading in and out of Brisbane's blue chip suburb of Windsor.
Opening Test batsman Usman Khawaja has sold his investment property on B<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-windsor-124633414" target="_blank">owen Street for $960,000</a>, (above) having spent $2.75 million upgrading to Holland Park last year.
The four bedroom home cost Khawaja $880,000 in 2014 after returning from playing for Lancashire in England.
After buying the home Khawaja immediately leased at $900 a week while he shared a place in Hawthorne with teammate Ben Cutting. It represented a 5.3 percent yield.
McGrath Bulimba - Balmoral agent Glenn Bool sold the home after 62 days. He had a guide of between $950,000 and $1.05 million.
Less than 500 metres away, the big hitting Chris Lynn, who recently starred in the IPL representing the Kolkata Knight Riders, has just <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-windsor-122802058" target="_blank">settled on a $1.7 million home</a>.
The luxury family home was renovated before Lynn's recent purchase.
It has six bedrooms, five bathrooms, a games room and a heated swimming pool.
</div></body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Cricketers coming and going in Brisbane's Windsor

<html><body>
The first residential tower within Park Central, a $1 billion development in Brisbane’s Woolloongabba, is to be released this month.
Park Central One will be developed by Singapore-based Wee Hur Holdings Ltd and will comprise 168 one and two-bedroom apartments over 18 levels.
There will be ground floor retail and a rooftop garden terrace as well that includes a swimming pool, deck and gym that take in views of Brisbane CBD and surrounds.
“Park Central One was designed for a local owner or a tenant wanting a convenient and active lifestyle, only 7 minutes from Brisbane CBD,” said Rachel Hutson, residential project manager at Colliers International, which is marketing the development.
“Being part of a transit oriented development, Park Central One will be a hub of activity offering residents direct connection to Buranda busway and rail stations as well as dedicated bikeways link to South east Freeway and the Norman Creek Bikeway and Greenway.”
One-bedroom apartments average 60 sqm in size and range from $350,000 to $425,000, while the average size of a two-bedroom apartment is 90 sqm with prices ranging from $485,000 to $690,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/19/ParkCentral.jpg" alt="">
The tower is designed by Woods Bagot, and Tomkins have recently been appointed as the builders, with construction expected to start later this year.
Park Central will also have direct access to the $944 million high frequency Brisbane Metro Service for which Council handed down its business case recently. 
The open plan living apartments will feature a designer kitchen with feature splashback, reconstituted stone island bench and quality Bosch stainless steel appliances.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/19/ParkCentralkitchen.jpg" alt="">
The Woolloongabba precinct is expected to grow by more than 100,000 jobs to 2031.  Woolloongabba itself is expected to generate over 20,000 new jobs.
The future stages at Park Central will include additional apartments, student accommodation, all positioned around a 4,300 sqm ‘sky park’ and 16,000 sqm retail precinct anchored by a supermarket, specialty stores and dining.
According to the master plan, ‘sky park’ will be a private recreation space that will include a club lounge, outdoor dining and entertaining areas. There is a display suite onsite.
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

First apartment tower at Park Central in Brisbane's Woolloongabba

<html><body>
Brisbane's best performing Inner Ring suburb for houses in terms of capital growth was Seven Hills, recorded an average of 10.3 percent growth over the past 12 months according to Place Advisory.
This was closely followed by South Brisbane, which saw 10.2 percent growth.
For apartments Highgate Hill saw the highest capital growth with 11.4 percent growth.
The strongest performer for houses in Brisbane’s Middle Ring was Chermside, recording 14.2 percent capital growth.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-7.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-7.jpg" width="700" height="425">
Place Advisory said Chermside’s proximity to employment nodes, infrastructure, retail precincts and various amenities make the suburb a popular choice for buyers and tenants alike. 
"Rocklea and Gordon Park were the best performing suburbs for apartments in Brisbane’s Middle Ring, recording 5.6 percent capital growth," Place advisory said.
"Meanwhile, the housing market in Seventeen Mile Rocks was the Outer Rings top performer, recording 12.0 percent capital growth.
"Previously an industrial area, Seventeen Mile Rocks has seen a number of housing estate developments in recent years.
"For apartments, Geebung in Brisbane’s North, saw the strongest capital growth, recorded at 6.9 percent.
"The Inner City suburb of Teneriffe has the highest median sale price across Brisbane’s Inner Ring, currently sitting at $1,850,000.
"Teneriffe is one of Brisbane’s most desirable riverfront suburbs and is home to a number of prestigious dwellings.
"For apartments, Norman Park, located in Brisbane’s Inner East has the highest median sale price of $680,000.
"Ascot, located in the Middle Ring, is regarded as one of Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs as it offers easy access to the CBD and excellent local amenities and infrastructure.
"Ascot is the Middle Rings most expensive suburb, recording a median house price of $1,344,000.
"For apartments, the tightly held suburb of Bardon tops the list with the median apartment price currently sitting at $622,750.
"The suburb of Robertson in Brisbane’s Outer Ring recorded the highest median sale price, currently sitting at $1,072,500.
"The suburb is a popular choice for young families as it offers large houses and easy connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs, Westfield Garden City, Griffith University and the QEII Jubilee Hospital.
"Kenmore in Brisbane’s outer west recorded the highest median sale price for apartments, currently sitting at $639,500.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-9.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-9.jpg" alt="">
"We have divided Brisbane’s suburbs into three regions, Inner, Middle and Outer, which represent 5km, 10km and 20km rings from the CBD as shown in the map below.
"This map is colour coded, with the darker green representing Brisbane’s Inner Ring, orange being the Middle Ring suburbs and the light blue representing Brisbane’s Outer Ring.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-1.1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-1.1.jpg" alt="">
What are the main differences between these rings?
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-2.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-3.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-4.jpg" alt="">
"The graph below breaks down the number of sales and median sale price for houses in each of the three rings over the past ten years.
"As expected, Brisbane’s Inner Ring is the most expensive region, recording a median house price of $875,000 over the six month period ending December 2016.
"Houses in the Inner Ring are 22 prercent more expensive that those in Brisbane’s Middle Ring, recording a median sale price of $715,000 and 56% more than houses in the Outer Ring at a median price of $560,000.
"Over the past ten year period Brisbane’s Inner and Middle Rings saw similar price growth, recording 5.4 percent and 5.3 percent growth per annum respectively, whilst the Outer Ring suburbs recorded a slightly lower 4.8 percent growth per annum.
"Sales results over the past 12 months however, have seen Brisbane’s Middle Ring outperform, recording 4.6 percent price growth, whilst the Inner and Outer Rings saw just 3.5 percent and 3.3 percent price growth respectively.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-5.1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-5.1.jpg" alt="">
"In terms of the number of houses sold, Brisbane’s Outer Ring saw the highest number of sales.
"Representative of the supply, the six month period ending December 2016 saw 3,764 transactions take place in the Outer Ring, accounting for half of total sales across Brisbane.
"This was followed by the Middle Ring, which saw 2,543 sales occur, whilst Brisbane’s Inner Ring recorded just 1,183 transactions for the period.
"It’s no secret that the Brisbane apartment market has suffered in recent periods. As shown in the graph below, each of the three regions have experienced varying amounts of decline over the past two years.
"Over the past 12 month period, Brisbane’s Inner Ring has experienced the largest decline in median apartment prices, decreasing by 3.5 percent.
"This was followed by the Middle Ring, declining by 2.7 percent over the period, whilst apartment prices in Brisbane’s Outer ring decreased by just 0.7 percent over the period.
"The Inner Ring does however, remain to be the most expensive region to purchase an apartment.
"During the six month period ending December 2016 apartment prices sat at $468,000, compared to $445,000 in the Middle Ring and $380,000 in Brisbane’s Outer Ring.
"Longer term, the Middle ring has experienced the highest price growth, with median apartment prices increasing by 3.5 percent per annum over the past ten years, followed by the Inner Ring and the Outer Ring, recording 2.7% and 2.3% price growth per annum respectively over the past ten year period.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-6.jpg" alt="">
"The Inner Ring saw the highest number of transactions occur over the December 2016 six month period, recording 2,252 apartment sales.
"This was followed by the Middle Ring, which saw 1,418 sales and the Outer Ring, recording 938 transactions. 
"Place Advisory has summarised the five most affordable suburbs, based on median sale price, for houses and apartments in Brisbane’s Inner, Middle and Outer Rings over the past 12 month period.
"Within Brisbane’s Inner Ring, the riverfront suburb of Fairfield was the most affordable for houses, recording a median sale price of $675,000.
"For apartments, East Brisbane topped the list, with median prices currently sitting at $395,000.
"Meanwhile, Rocklea is the most affordable suburb for both houses and apartments in Brisbane’s Middle Ring, recording a median of $385,000 and $320,250 respectively.
"The suburbs older style homes, industrial areas, lack of amenity and high flood risk in recent years have kept property prices low.
"Brisbane’s Outer Ring, home to larger blocks of land, cheaper homes and less amenities, are generally Brisbane’s most affordable suburbs.
"However, with improving infrastructure these suburbs are becoming increasingly popular, particularly with first home buyers and young families.
"Houses in Wacol and apartments in Deagon were the Outer Rings most affordable suburbs, with median sale prices currently sitting at $305,500 and $125,000 respectively.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Chart-8.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/14/Chart-8.jpg" alt="">
For more information from Place Advisory, <a href="https://www.placeprojects.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
 
</body></html>

Brisbane's Seven Hills is Inner Ring's best performing housing suburb

<html><body>
A neighbourhood centre anchored by Woolworths and Aldi in Brisbane’s northern suburb of Warner has been listed for sale.
MarketPlace Warner is a ‘best in class’ shopping centre, with the Woolworths supermarket believed to be one of the best performing Woolworths in Queensland by MAT, with turnover well above Urbis benchmarks for a double supermarket anchored shopping centre.
It is being marketed by JLL through an expressions of interest campaign closing July 27. 
The listing agents are JLL’s Jacob Swan and Sam Hatcher.
Swan said neighbourhood shopping centres remained tightly held with only $347.6 million transacted this year, compared to a total of $1.6 billion in 2016. 
“Interestingly, of the 15 transactions that have occurred this year, nine have been in Queensland, highlighting investor confidence within Queensland’s retail market,” he said.  
He said private investors, syndicators and funds management groups were still actively seeking to invest in neighbourhood shopping centres, with competition for quality centres remaining strong.
“The defensive nature of these non-discretionary-based assets continues to appeal to the market.”
“The low-volatility of the spending profile within prime neighbourhood centres presents an ideal vehicle for capital preservation, while also providing a stable and attractive running yield.”
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Woolies1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Woolies1.png" alt="">
The shopping centre was redeveloped in 2014 to include an upgraded Woolworths supermarket spread on 4,485 sqm, a new Aldi supermarket and 37 other stores.
The site area is about 6.5 ha. 
The offering also includes a freestanding development pad site of 2,456 sqm, freestanding Goodstart Early Learning Child care and an adjoining balance land component of 4,305 sqm.  The centre provides a total combined GLA of 11,477 sqm.
JLL’s Sam Hatcher said there was significant growth to be had locally.
“We see growth in the retail spend and rental profile being realised through a large population of almost 70,000 in the Main Trade Area, projected to increase at 1.7% to 87,280 persons by 2036. In addition there are a total of 712 new dwellings under construction in the catchment/region, due to be completed in 2020.”
Total trade area retail expenditure is estimated at $905.5 million and is projected to grow to $2.3 billion by 2036, an average growth rate of 4.6%, he added.
 
</body></html>

Brisbane shopping centre anchored by Woolworths listed for sale 

<html><body>
Star Hotels has snapped up the Kingsford Smith Motel at 610 Kingsford Smith Drive, Brisbane, for around $6 million from Charlton Hotels.
Kingsford Smith Motel is located in the prestigious suburb of Hamilton and is within close proximity to the Brisbane airport and cruise ships terminal.
The 4 Star motel offers 36 rooms in seven styles, WIFI, Air Conditioning, Cable/Satellite TV, swimming pool and a two bedroom manager’s apartment.
Nic Simarro, Senior Sales Executive for Hotels at Savills who negotiated the off market transaction said due to the lack of hotel stock available in CBD locations, current investors and funds management groups have been very aggressive with pricing in order to deploy capital”
“This is creating a highly competitive market for hotel assets across Australia, proving it really is a “vendors’ market” he continued.
The Kingsford Hotel, Brisbane is also on the market through the Hotels team at Savills and the Kingsford Riverside Inn, Brisbane recently sold $2.5m by the team.
</body></html>

Star Hotels snaps up Kingsford Smith Motel, Brisbane through Savills

<html><body>
Developer Ideal Property Australia is constructing its $70 million Toowong-based luxury riverfront building, Banc Apartments, in a show of confidence in the Brisbane apartment market.
Ideal has engaged McNab as preferred contractor to commence operational works and design of early works for the 15 level tower.
Around 65 per cent of the 33 luxury residences are already sold.
McNab is a leading Brisbane-based construction company with 21 years experience in delivering high-end residential, retirement and commercial developments.
Key projects include the University of Queensland Global Change Institute which was awarded best sustainable development in Australia by the Property Council in 2016 and the Village at Coorparoo, awarded best Seniors Living in Australia by the Property Council earlier this year.
Banc's remaining apartments include a garden home with a private 227sqm riverfront terrace plus three bedroom river homes and sky homes with prices starting from $1.39 million.
Those in the market for a penthouse-style residence can secure the full-floor, 455sqm Sky Mansion atop the building, with the option to work with award-winning WMK Architecture and SJB Interiors to customise the abode at no additional cost.
Ideal Property has recently released a second full floor option as an alternative to the Sky Mansion, priced from $4.45 million.
Ideal Property director John Li says the timing is right to push ahead with the project, which is the only new tower being developed along the riverfront Coronation Drive and one of only a handful in Brisbane to offer half and full floor residences in a boutique building.
"I believe the Brisbane market still has a lot of potential and there evidently is solid demand - for the right type of property," Mr Li said.
"Banc has been successful because it represents a return to the golden age of riverfront luxury development, with apartments equivalent in size to an average home, complete with top shelf finishes and panoramic views that can never be built out.
"Banc's Sky Homes offer up to 231sqm of living space and residents will have exclusive access to a pool, barbeque terrace and winebanc - a purpose-built wine cellar with a 195 bottle wine storage fridge for each apartment."
Mr Li says he anticipates the final residences in Banc will sell on the back of the Federal Governments' new incentive for downsizers, which allows those aged over 65 to sell the family home and inject up to $300,000 into their superannuation account.
"At this stage we are aiming for Banc to be complete in late 2018, which gives purchasers enough time to sell their existing property and prepare to start the next chapter of their life.
Place Estate agent Simon Caulfield, is marketing the project.
Banc is located at 527 Coronation Drive, Toowong, and accessible via 7 Land Street.          
For project details, please visit <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/bancliving.com" target="_blank">bancliving.com</a>
</body></html>

Banc, Brisbane’s newest riverfront tower set to start construction

<html><body>
Work on the tallest engineered timber office building in the world, in Brisbane, was launched with much fanfare with the Acting Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Jackie Trad joining the show. 
Listed property group Lendlease’s first engineered timber office building in Queensland, 25 King (earlier 5 King), was acquired by Impact Investment Group (IIG) earlier this year, its second commercial building acquisition in the $2.9 billion Brisbane Showgrounds redevelopment.
The nearly 45 metre tower will have ground floor retail plus nine storeys, and has been designed by architect Bates Smart. It will become the future home of engineering firm Aurecon.
It is being built using a revolutionary building timber technology called cross laminated timber (CLT) and glulum (glue laminated timber) which has a structural strength akin to traditional concrete and steel.
CLT has a much lower carbon footprint than other building materials, the production process produces zero waste, and timbers are sourced from certified sustainably managed forests, according to a media release.
The tower, when completed in late 2018, will have controlled lighting, heating and cooling from a single interface, and large glass areas will maximise natural daylight.
Lendlease is building the asset and will work with its partners to lease the nearly 7,900 sqm of remaining office space.
Lendlease managing director, Urban Regeneration, Mark Menhinnitt said the company was focused on delivering the next generation of sustainable workplaces with state-of-the-art technology in Queensland.
“25 King is set to become the tallest and largest engineered timber office building in the world which is a wonderful achievement for the Brisbane Showgrounds precinct.
It will be Lendlease’s fifth engineered timber building in Australia and joins International House Sydney, Forte Apartments and Library at The Dock in Melbourne, and Jordan Springs Community Hub in Western Sydney.
Acting Premier Jackie Trad said 25 King was breaking new ground in its use of structural timber in a building of its type and size.
“This is a great example of the type of development we’ll be seeing more of in the future, and it puts Queensland at forefront of cutting edge sustainable construction practices,” she said.
The tower will larget a 6 Star Green Star Design and As Built v1.1 and a NABERS Energy 5 Star rating.
Chris Lock, CEO, Impact Investment Group said 25 King is a great demonstration of how IIG invests in property.
“We look for property investments with excellent potential for environmental sustainability; where we can fund best-in-class construction, or actively manage existing properties to drive energy efficiency and very positive social outcomes.”
 
</body></html>

Brisbane

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Brisbane

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News