Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

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Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

Brisbane

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Sydney businessman Nick Politis has bought the historic Heckelmann's Building in the heart of Brisbane's CBD for $15.5 million.  
The building, at 171 Elizabeth Street opposite the Hilton Hotel, was sold through Knight Frank, according to the Australian Financial Review.
"Our formal marketing campaign for 171 Elizabeth Street resulted in a large number of offers from private investors and developers; mostly from interstate investors who have been priced out of the Sydney and Melbourne CBD markets," Knight Frank senior director for institutional sales Justin Bond said.
Mr Politis,whose wealth is estimated by the BRW Rich List at $594 million, invests in real estate across the country.
Heckelmann's Building is a heritage-listed building designed by Andrea Giovanni Stombuco and built from 1884 to 1891. It was added to the Queensland Heritage Register in 1992.
Joseph Heckelmann, a tinsmith by trade, died in 1925. In 1951 the building was purchased by the Commercial Bank of Australia for £50,000, subdivided in 1963 and two years later one half of the building was bought by Ken Rosewall and Rod Laver, noted Australian tennis champions. Kern Corporation subsequently became the owner of the entire building.
It last sold at $2.4 million in 1991.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Heckelmann's Brisbane building sold to Nick Politis

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The new development at Hamilton's Portside Wharf has sold its final luxury penthouse.
Developed by Brookfield Residential Properties, Pinnacle has sold more than $10 million worth of apartments in recent months.
Two river terraces sold for a combined $1.5 million and eight two bedroom apartments were also part of influx of sales.
The recent $2 million sale was the last of the five penthouses on over, which combined totalled a sale price of over $10.7 million.
The luxury residence sold for between $1.7 million and $2.5 million.
Brookfield Residential Properties' general manager Lee Butterworth put the sale down to the lure of riverfront living.
The 15 level building is topped with an exclusive rooftop swimming pool, barbecue, entertainment area and gymnasium.
Sales in Pinnacle have reached $119 million with remaining apartments priced from $650,000 for two bedrooms, two bathrooms and secure car parking.
Located six kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, Pinnacle is the sixth residential stage of Portside Wharf after Loft, Infinity, Flare, Promenade and Link.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Pinnacle at Portside Wharf sells final penthouse

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Brisbane house prices are predicted to increase by 5 percent over the next 12 months according to JLL, who believe the change in unit prices will remain flat over the 12 months.
The Brisbane Residential Market Report to December 2015 found the median house price is up 4.4% on the year and the median apartment price down 0.3% on the year and down 0.34% on the quarter.   
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The report noted listings are selling, with total house listings down 10.2%, new house listings down 1.1% on last year with total apartment listings down 1.7%. It found the Inner Brisbane region has shown the strongest price growth for houses, up 11.3% on last year to $938,000
"Southeast Inner Brisbane was up 5.3% to $733,000. Growth levels have been lowest for Caboolture, Ipswich City, Pine Rivers and Logan City, up between 2.2% and 5.0%. Ipswich City offers the cheapest median price at $327,000," the report found.
"For apartments, growth levels have been much lower, with Inner Brisbane unchanged over last year at $496,000. The strongest growth rates on substantial turnover have been in Southeast Inner Brisbane and Caboolture, at 4.7% and 6.0% respectively. 
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"The inner suburbs are most in demand, with median house prices above $800,000. This falls rapidly with distance from the CBD to around $550,000 10km or more from the city and $400,000 20km or more from the city."
Median Brisbane house prices showed the strongest quarterly growth to December 2015 nationwide with an increase of 4.4% according to new figures released by JLL.
  
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The median house price is up 4.4% on the year and the median apartment price down 0.3% on the year and down 0.34% on the quarter.
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Brisbane house prices forecast to increase by 5 percent, but no growth for apartments: JLL

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Landlords offering free rent, internet on new apartments in Brisbane’s CBD is not just an indication that it’s a tenant’s market, but that it is near saturation as well, says a QUT property economist.
Tenants are calling the shots in the Brisbane CBD and inner ring suburb rental market, according to QUT economist Dr Lyndall Bryant. Of the 500 properties listed in the past six months in sought-after West End, the average days to rent was 39 days.
“That’s five-and-a-half weeks of your apartment sitting empty, so landlords might as well offer a month’s free rent on a six-month lease since it’s likely to be empty anyway,” Dr Bryant said.
“The average rental in West End is $400 a week, which means that with a four-week, rent-free period, tenants, in effect, can get the equivalent of their bond back for free.
They could conceivably move into a new apartment every six months and save two months’ rent every year.
“If this is happening in West End which has great amenity – close to the river, the city and a cosmopolitan hub - what these figures are showing us is that the market is reaching saturation.”
Dr Bryant said demand for near-city apartment living came from three groups: students, young professionals and empty nesters.
With 10,000 new apartments currently under construction, it was unclear where fresh demand for these units would come from, except possibly from international students because of the falling Australian dollar.
"In addition to the 10,000 near-city apartments under construction, inner ring Brisbane has another 15,000 apartments approved and another 15,000 waiting approval.
“If all these properties go ahead there will be an apartment oversupply and it’ll be a tenants’ market for the foreseeable future.  When landlords aren’t getting returns on their investment, they sell up and property values fall.
“Brisbane has shown good investment returns in recent years but incentives such as free rent and internet indicate we are approaching saturation.
“This isn’t good for the market. Any new developments should look very closely at their value proposition until the demand fundamentals shift."
 Dr Bryant said commercial vacancies were at an all-time high.
"Brisbane office market vacancies have blown out to 15 per cent as the mining boom has contracted," she said.
"This has meant there are fewer white collar workers looking for shorter term accommodation who could take up tenancies in near-city apartments."
Dr Bryant said a further complication was recent changes by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) and Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) that had been effective in putting the brakes on property investment lending. 
"In an effort to cool the overheated property market down south, APRA has required the banks to actively discourage higher risk mortgage lending for property investors. That is, interest only loans, high loan to value ratio loans, and loans with very long terms.
“It’s one thing to create high-density, inner city living but not everyone wants to live in an apartment and so it’s important to maintain choice in housing types. 
“With the inner city apartment market reaching saturation, it’s time to shift the policy focus to other segments of the market such as affordable greenfield and “grey field” development."
QUT is one of five Australian universities that have come together to form the Australian Technology Network of Universities.
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Free rent and internet to lure tenants in over-crowded Brisbane CBD: QUT economist

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Brisbane's LGA median house price over the September quarter rose to $615,000, according to the REIQ Queensland Market Monitor report.
The median house price set in the June quarter was $610,000.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the Brisbane market, and  the southeast corner of Queensland was leading the state’s recovery. 
“It’s been difficult for areas of the state that were heavily reliant on mining to find their feet, but we’re starting to see indicators that suggest we are heading towards firmer ground,” she said. 
“Confidence in the residential house market is growing with sales activity up over the quarter across almost all southeast Queensland regions."
House listings in SE Queensland were up, with house sales in Ipswich posting a 12% increase. The annual trend is up 3.6%
Toowoomba and Cairns recorded the shortest average days on market over the year to August. Toowoomba house sales increased 13% over the quarter and held the state's lowest average vendor discounting rate of 5.3%. 
<a href="/images/2015/12/15/Screen%20Shot%202015-12-15%20at%2010.32.16%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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$615,000 median house price for Brisbane LGA: REIQ

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A Wynnum $400,000 family home sale was the weekend's cheapest auction price in Brisbane. 
First time offered in over 50 years, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-wynnum-121204390" target="_blank">47 Tangorin Street </a>came with three bedrooms and one bathroom.
Featuring original detailing, the property has VJ boards, wide pine flooring and stained glass windows.
Located on a corner block, the 409 sqm holding is minutes to public transport, shops, schools and the waterfront.
Nina Adams and Helen Grunlow of Century 21 sold the home. 
 
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Wynnum offers Brisbane's cheapest offering

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Brisbane's most expensive sale at the weekend's auction was the $2 million sale of the 1925 home, Dewrang in Paddington.
The family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-paddington-121233086" target="_blank">38 Brindle Street</a> had an annual appreciation of 4.43% having been spruced up since last traded for $1.391 million in 2007. 
Sold by Daniel Argent of Urban Property Agents, the five bedroom family home has a private study and a numerous courtyards and terraces.
The 1062 sqm residence also features an in-ground pool amid lush landscaped gardens.
The family friendly area is surrounded by schools and childcare whilst located just three kilometres from Brisbane's CBD.
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Paddington secures Brisbane's highest weekend sale

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Coochiemudlo Island - and the 4184 postcode - was identified as one of the most affordable rental suburbs closest to the Brisbane's central business district, according to Australia's first rental affordability index.
The index is a joint project between peak housing advocate National Shelter, Community Sector Banking and SGS Economics &amp; Planning.
Property Observer went looking for properties in the suburb and came up with these listings: 
1. A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/3-eprapah-coochiemudlo-island-qld-4184-10019316" target="_blank">3 Eprapah, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> (below) is up for rent for $400 per week. The property last traded for $375,000 in 2014 reflecting a gross rental yield of around 5.5%.
<img src="/images/2015/12/2/c1.jpg" alt="" width="544" height="356">
 
2. Another three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/1-oakes-street-coochiemudlo-island/Property-Details-rent-residential-9808943" target="_blank">1 Oakes Street, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> (below) has a rental of $370 per week.
<img src="/images/2015/12/2/c2.jpg" alt="" width="509" height="339">
3. A two-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/11-carefree-street-coochiemudlo-island/Property-Details-rent-residential-9551896" target="_blank">11 Carefree Street, COOCHIEMUDLO ISLAND 4184</a> has a rental of $350 per week.
The median rent for houses in Coochiemudlo Island is $310 per week with a gross yield of 5.2%, according to data on <a href="/news">www.propertyvalue.com.au</a>. Even though the median rent is well below the national average of $395, the yield is higher than the national average. 
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Coochiemudlo Island rental affordability: What landlords are asking from tenants

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Herron Todd White has advised that Brisbane should be seen as a long-term option for investors, according to their latest monthly report.
It noted Brisbane was "enjoying some great attention while avoiding a feeding frenzy, which is just the way we like it," the November review explained.
"We’d also like to believe investors are well informed buyers who keenly research their markets before making the big decision to purchase, but this is sadly not always true.
"Plenty of property is sold to unsuspecting non-locals charmed by the idea of depreciation benefits and easy cash, and this is rarely smart buying."
The review shows that the strongest activity from investors in the past year has been city-centric – suburbs close to the CBD such as Fortitude Valley, Newstead, New Farm, Teneriffe, Bowen Hills, and Hamilton have experienced the lion’s share of investor buyers in the north.
The review also shows that south of the river, investors have been keen on South Brisbane and West End where towers continue to grow across the suburbs.
"While these areas offer solid, blue-chip real estate with the location, location, location box ticked, different developments are attracting different buyer groups, and some may be in for bad news on future growth.
"Some projects appeal predominantly to locals, however others are selling to interstate and international buyers who may not be overly informed about what’s happening on the ground in our city.
"In addition many are sold prior to completion with marketing arms determining who gets to buy the product, rather than buyers choosing for themselves."
The report goes on to suggest that in Brisbane, many of the fundamentals for good investments were at work - ie being close to amenities, public transport and school catchments are major pluses, and café precincts or proximity to the city all work in particular when appealing to young professionals as tenants.
Herron Todd White say that in Brisbane, buyers are (or at least should be), looking at the quality and condition of the product, but this must be considered in tandem with position and proximity to nodes like universities, school catchments, public transport and other amenities, so rent can be maximised.
"There is of course also the important question of money.
"When talking about price points for investor stock the New Farm/Teneriffe/Newstead area will set you back around $800,000 to $1.1million, while a bit further out in Ascot, Hamilton and Clayfield, investors are spending around $500,000 to $800,000.
"If you’re looking at the inner- to mid-ring suburbs of Greenslopes and Annerley on the south side, expect to pay $550,000 to $650,000 for an entry level 3-bed, 1-bath home."
The report indicates that should you travel a little further out to Sunnybank and entry level property is around $500,000. For those wanting to dip their toe into the Brisbane market without making a major outlay, Marsden on the south side has product in the early $300,000s however there is a bit of stock at present and rents are relatively static
"For many buyers, successful serviceability of a loan is all about returns. Gross yields in Brisbane are generally 4.% to 5.5% across most holdings.
"When looking at the price for units on the south side, established units in Coorparoo and Greenslopes reflect figures from $350,000 and up for an entry level, 2-bed, 1-bath attached dwelling. Closer in and new one bedders in West End and South Brisbane are over $400,000, while two bedders are in the high $500,000s.
"As for market outlook, the sustainability of investor activity over the medium term depends on a number of variables such as interest rates, APRA regulations and the old chestnuts of demand and supply. Inner city units are at risk of oversupply and falling values may follow in the short term.
The in month reviews suggests the problem is compounded by Brisbane’s migration levels being at an all-time low.
"They haven’t increased relative to the amount of development being undertaken within the Brisbane region, so things could get tight for some markets.
"The APRA regulations are already impacting the market here – particularly with buyers who are already at their maximum LVR.
"If demand begins waning, the inner city unit market would be most affected and there’d be a flow on effect due to the substantial supply forecast for units.
"That said, Brisbane is generally a solid market for investors.
"Our tip is to buy as close to the CBD as possible and get value for money by looking seriously at second hand stock being sold locally, or homes where the land value is solid.
"It’s the best way to mitigate risk."
 
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Brisbane inner city units at risk of oversupply and falling values: HTW

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Charter Hall’s Core Plus Industrial Fund (CPIF) has bought an industrial land holding near the Port of Brisbane in an off-market deal for $6 million, adding to its existing holdings on Lytton Road at Hemmant.
The 1517 Lytton Road, Hemmant property is spread over 17,766 square metres and is a General Industry zoned site within the Trade Coast precinct.   
The site had historically been used as part of the overall Inghams chicken facility and most recently as a transport yard.
Selling agent Shaw Harrison of Savills leased out the vacant yards and split the site into smaller tenancies, occupied by hardstand and transport depot tenants. The total current income of $520,000 represents a yield of 8.66% which includes a rental guarantee for the vacant yard.
Harrison said the acquisition of 1517 Lytton Road “adds the final piece of the puzzle” following Charter Hall’s previous acquisitions of neighbouring properties, 1510 Lytton Road in 2014 and 80 Canberra Street in 2012. The latest brings its total holding to more than 12 hectares of future developable land backed by a weighted average lease expiry of around 14 years with some medium-term development upside.
“The acquisition is right on strategy in terms of investing in highly land constrained markets within very close proximity to key infrastructure in the Port of Brisbane and Gateway Motorway. It enables us to work closely with, and provide flexibility, in terms of expansion or reconfiguration requirements, for one of our key customers, Inghams,” Charter Hall’s head of industrial Paul Ford said.
CPIF focuses on sourcing properties in the industrial and logistics sectors of major Australian capital cities. The fund was launched in April 2007, raising $350 million in equity commitments, says its website.
Harrison said the fully fenced property with workshops and separate yards provide attractive holding income while the new owner assesses future options.
 “The Trade Coast provides convenient road access direct from the Port to both the north and south of Brisbane via the Gateway Bridge and Motorways and, as such, is a strategic logistics location and busy route for trucks and heavy vehicles. This site will be the next big thing in the Trade Coast precinct,” said Harrison.
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