<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/draycon">Draycon Building</a> is nearing completion of Boutique Chevron Island, a 42-apartment development on the northern end of Chevron Island at 17–19 Parneno Street, with a limited-time offer of fully furnished apartments available.

Now more than 90 per cent complete, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/boutique-chevron-island-17-19-parneno-chevron-island-qld-4217">Boutique</a> has been shaped by one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held island addresses, where riverfront outlooks and walkable access to Surfers Paradise converge.

For Draycon Building Managing Director Howard Dabit, the appeal of the site was immediate.

“I knew it was a good site as soon as I saw it,” Dabit said.

“The position and location on the north end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, the way the river swirls around the site basically from the north to the east, it feels like the site is surrounded by the water. The height that we’ve got and the aspect looking north is beautiful. Eighty per cent of the apartments are looking north so they get that drenching sunlight coming in.”

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That northern orientation places the development within a stretch of Chevron Island defined by open river aspects and skyline views, while remaining embedded in the suburb’s established village setting.

Chevron Island has increasingly drawn owner-occupiers seeking centrality without the intensity of high-rise beachfront living. Positioned at the geographical centre of the Gold Coast, the island offers direct access to both the beach and key cultural infrastructure while retaining a neighbourhood-scale character.

Connected by bridge to Surfers Paradise, Chevron Island offers walkable access to beaches, riverfront parklands and a revitalised foreshore boulevard animated by walkers and cyclists throughout the day. The Pacific Ocean is only minutes away, reinforcing the suburb’s dual river-and-surf identity.

At the same time, Thomas Drive forms the spine of the island’s village life, delivering cafés, wine bars, casual dining and everyday services within easy reach. Independent grocers, wellness operators and neighbourhood retailers contribute to a community atmosphere that remains distinct from the vertical scale of the beachfront.

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In the opposite direction, the Green Bridge links directly to HOTA – Home of the Arts – placing galleries, performance venues and parklands within walking distance. Weekly markets and major exhibitions draw visitors from across the region, while residents return to a quieter residential pocket at day’s end.

Public transport, including nearby bus routes and the G:link light rail corridor along the coastal spine, strengthens connectivity north and south. Griffith University, the Gold Coast University Hospital precinct and established private schools such as The Southport School are all within a short drive.

Ongoing investment across Surfers Paradise, HOTA and the broader Southport corridor has elevated amenity while preserving Chevron Island’s comparatively low-rise residential character. It is this balance, walkable village atmosphere paired with metropolitan-scale infrastructure, that continues to differentiate the suburb from higher-density beachfront precincts.

Boutique comprises just 42 residences, designed to maximise river and skyline outlooks within this tightly held island setting.

Boutique Chevron Island is slated for completion in April 2026, with prices starting from $1,220,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89709]

Joel Robinson

Draycon Building’s Boutique Chevron Island places 42 residences at the heart of the Gold Coast

Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has secured planning approval for a $300 million residential development in Lindfield, marking the company’s second project on Sydney’s North Shore and its first on the Upper North Shore.

Located on Beaconsfield Parade and designed by DKO Architecture, the state significant development comprises three buildings of up to 10 storeys and will include 399 residences, including 59 affordable homes and 40 adaptable homes.

Residences will range in size from one, two and three bedrooms, with two-bedroom apartments accounting for over 60 per cent of the product make-up. Residents will have access to a broad suite of amenities, including a wellness area, indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, a pool, a gym, a community room and a golf simulator.

In line with Deicorp’s long-standing focus on creating transit-oriented communities, the project is located just 260 metres from the Lindfield Train Station, reinforcing its role in delivering well-connected housing close to established infrastructure, retail and local services.

The inclusion of affordable and adaptable housing supports greater diversity within the local market, while the mix of apartment types responds to demand from downsizers, young professionals and families seeking access to the Upper North Shore.

Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri OAM said the approval represents an important milestone for both the company and the suburb

“This approval allows us to deliver well-designed homes in a location that is already supported by strong transport and community infrastructure," Deiri said.

"Our focus is on creating places that integrate into their surroundings and provide long-term value for residents, and the broader Lindfield community. Being within walking distance of the station ensures this project supports sustainable growth in the right locations."

Across its portfolio, Deicorp currently has 4,703 apartments under construction, playing a leading role in shaping connected, liveable communities across Sydney.

Its expanding portfolio of Metro-linked developments includes Tallawong Village, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> in Five Dock, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hyde-metropolitan-sydney-133-141-liverpool-street-sydney-nsw-2000">Hyde Metropolitan</a> in Sydney CBD, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-crows-nest-8-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest and Showground Village, Castle Hill.

Deicorp purchased the Beaconsfield Paradise site last year. Construction is scheduled to commence in Q2 of 2026 and will be completed in 2029.

Deicorp expands portfolio to nearly 5,000 apartments with Lindfield project

In a joint venture with The Trump Organization, Australia developer Altus Property Group has announced plans to bring a Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower to the Gold Coast, marking the first Trump-branded project in Australia.

"Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast is our first official project in Australia and reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering world-class luxury experiences in iconic locations around the world," Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said.

"This development exemplifies the Trump brand’s dedication to quality, sophistication, and unmatched service, and we are thrilled to bring this vision to the vibrant Gold Coast community."

The 91-storey building, which will become the tallest in Australia at 335 metres, will feature a&nbsp;285-room luxury hotel bearing the trademark Trump logo. It will also include 272 luxury residential apartments, a three-level podium with an exclusive Beach Club, and over 3,400 sqm of premium commercial, retail, and dining space, revitalizing the central Surfers Paradise precinct.

“Trump International Hotel &amp; Tower, Gold Coast will be a truly unique offering in the Australian market, bringing the prestige and allure of a world-class luxury brand,"&nbsp;Altus founder and chief executive David Young said.

"Altus Property Group is proud of its track record in delivering landmark developments across Australia, and our expertise ensures this project will be an outstanding success."

Trump Hotel heads for the Gold Coast to become Australia's tallest building

More than a century after the Corrimal Coke Works first opened in 1912, the industrial landmark that helped shape the suburb is being reinterpreted as a walkable residential neighbourhood, with Stage One of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-works-stage-one-27-railway-street-corrimal-nsw-2518">The Works</a> now underway at 27 Railway Street.

For 102 years, the site was central to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/corrimal-nsw-2518">Corrimal</a>’s economic and social identity before operations ceased in 2014. Rather than erasing that legacy, developer Legacy Property has embedded it into the masterplan, retaining and reinterpreting elements such as the iconic 1912 brick chimney and sections of the original C1 Coke Oven Battery, alongside the adaptive reuse of the former powerhouse building.

Stage One will introduce 181 apartments across low-rise buildings, offering predominantly two and three-bedroom residences with completion targeted for mid-2027. The scale and configuration reflect a deliberate focus on owner-occupiers, targeting those seeking a lower-maintenance home in a prime location within the northern suburbs of Wollongong.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359833]

Apartments have been designed to maximise natural light and cross-ventilation, with floor-to-ceiling glazing extending living areas onto generous balconies. Engineered timber flooring, induction cooktops and 900mm ovens in larger residences support everyday functionality, while two interior palettes allow buyers to tailor finishes to their preferences. The material selection draws on a restrained coastal language, intended to connect homes to their surroundings rather than compete with them.

The Works forms part of a broader 18-hectare masterplan that will ultimately deliver around 550 dwellings, new parks, and a heritage precinct celebrating the site’s past. More than seven hectares are dedicated to open space, including Southern Park and a Village Green with community gardens and recreation areas. The creek corridor is being rehabilitated with 150,000 native plantings, restoring biodiversity to the site and softening landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359841]

Positioned adjacent to Corrimal Station and within walking distance of Corrimal Town Centre, the precinct places daily essentials, rail connections and local retail within easy reach. Wollongong CBD, including the hospital, university and entertainment venues, sits approximately 6.5 kilometres to the south.

For buyers more familiar with North Wollongong, Corrimal offers a different proposition: a well-established coastal suburb framed by beaches to the east and the escarpment to the west, with a strong sense of local identity shaped in part by the former Coke Works. The Works seeks to reinforce that identity by creating a connected, walkable neighbourhood between coast and escarpment, rather than a standalone apartment complex.

Sustainability underpins the development approach. The Works is targeting Wollongong’s first 5-Star Green Star-rated community, with water-sensitive urban design, recycled materials and energy-efficient buildings integrated across the masterplan. For residents, these measures provide not only environmental benefits but also reduced operational costs and future resilience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143415 project_image_fid=359842]

With construction commenced and display materials available to view, prospective buyers can now engage more directly with the project’s vision, reviewing floorplans, material selections and the broader masterplan in detail. For many local homeowners weighing a move, the opportunity to experience how heritage, landscape and contemporary design intersect may help bridge the gap between familiarity and the next chapter.

As Stage One progresses toward its mid-2027 completion, The Works represents a significant chapter in Corrimal’s evolution, transforming a site that once powered local industry into a walkable residential precinct designed for its next generation of residents.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143415]

Legacy Property’s The Works reimagines Corrimal’s century-old Coke Works

When it comes to developing in Melb​ourne's Bayside region, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> knows exactly what buyers want.

With a longstanding presence in the area and a string of sell-out projects, Lowe Living consistently delivers developments that are as sought-after as their predecessors.

Their latest instalment is in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-east-vic-3188">&nbsp;East,</a> the same postcode where they have previously delivered Hampton Hill and Oceano. The developer-builder recently commenced construction on its newest project,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marella-hampton-31-35-alicia-street-hampton-east-vic-3188">Marella</a>, a collection of 32 apartments just five minutes from the beach.

Site acquisition is paramount to success. Lowe Living rarely brings a building to market that isn’t within walking distance of essential amenities, whether it be the beach, a prominent retail strip, or a train station. Marella is no exception, located at its Alicia Street address, less than a kilometre from the retail heart of Hampton Street and Hampton Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358495]

Equally important to Lowe Living is the architecture.

For Marella, they appointed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, who explains that the architectural vision was to create a contemporary reinterpretation of the Californian bungalow, a style that’s iconic to Hampton’s heritage.

"By borrowing, abstracting, and reinterpreting elements of this quintessential style, such as strong datum lines, articulated columns, exposed structures, and roof tiles, our design strikes a balance between modernity and familiarity," says Cera Stribley.

"This approach ensures that the development is not only visually appealing but also contextually sensitive, resonating with Hampton's existing architectural landscape."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358499]

The building features terracotta brick, soft cream masonry, and exposed metal detailing, giving it a tactile presence that is intended to weather gently over time.

Internally, the focus on lasting quality continues, with two and three-bedroom residences anchored by sculptural stone kitchen islands, natural light, and clearly defined transitions between living, dining, and outdoor spaces.

The layouts have been carefully designed. Open-plan zones extend to private balconies, with light-filled interiors and generous kitchen proportions, supported by Miele wall ovens, induction cooktops, and integrated fridge-freezers. These are not small apartments rebranded as luxury; they have been designed at scale, with ample storage, hotel-style entry access, and secure basement parking provided as standard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358492]

At the uppermost level, Marella’s Signature Collection penthouses offer city or bay views, large entertaining terraces (some with outdoor spas), and elevated finishes, including fully wrapped stone kitchen benches and a Liebherr wine fridge.

Flexible room arrangements allow for a fourth bedroom or secondary living space, sought-after by both empty nesters who want the space when family visits and families with older children.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146197 project_image_fid=358498]

A residents’ lounge on the ground floor reinforces the project’s small-community feel. With a fireplace, private dining area, and adjoining terrace, it’s one of several shared spaces that balance amenity with privacy and scale.

Construction has commenced, with completion expected in early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146197]

Lowe Living continues Bayside legacy as Marella rises in Hampton

Buyer Q&A

Young first home buyer Elycia didn’t expect to become a property investor when she purchased an off the plan townhouse at Development Victoria’s <a href="/new-townhouses/luma-sunshine-north-247-st-albans-road-sunshine-north-vic-3020">LUMA</a> masterplanned community in <a href="/developments/sunshine-north-vic-3020">Sunshine North</a> several years ago.

“I’d been saving for a while, and it felt like a good time to get into the market,” Elycia said of her purchase.

When she visited the display suite, she could immediately see herself living there, thanks to the variety of thoughtfully designed floorplans.

“I fell in love with how the floorplans were laid out — especially how the living room was positioned quietly away from the kitchen and dining area,” she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=96896]

Having watched her parents build a home from scratch, Elycia was grateful for a simpler path.

“I wanted something with as few choices as possible. Just pick a colour scheme and go,” she said. “You didn’t have to pick bricks, carpet, or underlay — it was all done.”

She selected the light colour scheme and opted for a few upgrades like a premium benchtop, but kept most fixtures standard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=255556]

While COVID lockdowns delayed the delivery of her three-bedroom home near Sunshine Station, Elycia, a teacher, said <a href="/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> was transparent throughout the process.

The fact that Development Victoria is operated by the Victorian Government was a big reason I felt confident buying from them,” she said, adding that she was pleased with their clear communication around the delays, which were widely felt across the building industry.

“It felt slow at times, but once I could physically see the building taking shape, it all started to feel real.”

Importantly, the original purchase price remained unchanged — something Elycia appreciated.

“There weren’t any extra costs passed on to us. I’d paid my deposit, and the balance stayed the same," she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=350574]

Elycia had planned to move in and transfer schools once the build was complete in 2025. But life — and opportunity — had other ideas.

“On settlement, I stayed in the home for one night just to take it all in — to feel a sense of accomplishment for doing this by myself,” she said. “It’s now for someone else to enjoy.”

Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of the LUMA masterplan, located between Ginifer and Albion train stations.

The townhouses vary in configuration and design, ranging from one to four bedrooms, and are designed to be all-electric, featuring solar PV, double glazing, and a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating.

A new public park and future links to the broader Sunshine Precinct — set to become a major employment and infrastructure hub — positions LUMA residents to take full advantage of being in a long-term growth corridor with increasing appeal for a wide range of buyers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27783]

First home buyer turned investor: How young teacher Elycia bought her home at LUMA in Sunshine North

Since its completion two years ago, The Grand Residences in Eastlakes still stands as the newest apartment development in the gateway suburb to Sydney's East.

With the final apartments recently being released to the market, we went down to <a href="/buildings/the-grand-residences-eastlakes-16-evans-avenue-eastlakes">The Grand Residences</a> to talk to its residents and find out what it's like to live in the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262590]

There's been a mix of owner-occupiers over the years.

Peter, an interior designer, has been at The Grand Eastlakes since it was completed two years ago, while Prateek had been a tenant in the building before recently purchasing a unit as a rentvestor.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/lIoP_MoLzy8?si=BRxJS9rPleS0f0be" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Both owners talked to the quality of what developer Crown Group has created at The Grand Residences, as well as the extensive facilities in the building and the prime location, offering access to Sydney's best beaches and the thriving cafe and dining hubs of Rosebery and Newtown.

Another resident praised the convenience and accessibility of The Grand Residences, noting its proximity to essential amenities such as cafes, supermarkets, and public transport.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/the-prime-eastern-suburbs-location-of-the-grand-residences-eastlakes">The prime Eastern Suburbs location of The Grand Residences, Eastlakes</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262599]

McGrath Projects, and Crown Property Agency, are marketing the final apartments available in The Grand Residences. They've been popular so far with first home buyers, owner-occupiers, and downsizers.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/how-the-grand-residences-eastlakes-apartments-stack-up-for-investors">How The Grand Residences, Eastlakes apartments, stack up for investors</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7652]

McGrath Projects, and Crown Property Agency, are marketing the final apartments available in The Grand Residences

Why I bought an apartment in The Grand Residences, Eastlakes: Urban buyer testimonial

With substantial forecasted population growth, and the North West Metro, Castle Hill is becoming a sought-after suburb. Offering genuine value compared to more established apartment markets like Chatswood, St Leonards and Macquarie Park, it is attracting first home buyers, investors, downsizers and upsizers. Due to complete Spring 2024, Grand Reve has been billed as the most prestigious development ever offered in the Hills District.

Hear from Sydney local Gerry, who recently purchased his new home at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve as well as Josephine, who recently purchased two new properties at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve.

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b2-cVGxhNtQ?si=GiknCU48EDLJIcz6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94147]

*Dasco has been rated 4.5 gold stars in the NSW Government's Rating System, iCIRT, which helps prospective buyers more easily identify building professionals who have a proven track record, supported by objective evidence of their past capability to deliver buildings you can trust. The more stars, the more confidence your construction industry professional is likely to deliver a reliable outcome.

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VXyo-f3_kEQ?si=TIyi2dsofYbqGT8I" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94147]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203070]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203069]

&nbsp;

Hear from Sydney local Gerry, who recently purchased his new home at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve as well as Josephine, who recently purchased two new properties at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve.


Olivia Round

Grand Reve Recent Purchaser Testimonials from Josephine & Gerry

Downsizers Henry and Sandra share why they decided to purchase their new home at Aura by Aqualand in North Sydney.

Watch the video to learn more:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c3M4azLt5yg" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>AURA AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;168 Walker Street, North Sydney 
Developer: Aqualand 
Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Staff Writer

BUYER TESTIMONIAL: How Sandra and Henry found their dream home at Aura by Aqualand in North Sydney

Glen Iris locals Andrea and Wayne recently secured not one, but two apartments in the new Glen Iris apartment development, Galerie.

They're amalgamating the two apartments to become on large apartment.

We recently spoke with Andrea and Wayne to talk about their purchase.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NrDuugdzE3Y" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>GALERIE AT A GLANCE</h2>

Address:&nbsp;1538-1540 High Street, Glen Iris 
Developer:&nbsp;<a href="/developers/lds-property">LDS Property</a> 
Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112375]

BUYER TESTIMONIAL: Why Andrea & Wayne amalgamated two apartments in Galerie, Glen Iris

Residents have moved into the completed Glen Waverley apartment project Sky Garden.

The striking project was developed by&nbsp;Golden Age Group&nbsp;to a design by&nbsp;Rothelowman.

With buyers having moved in, Urban spoke to investors, Pushpendu and Manisha Gupta about their property buying journey, and what they love about Sky Garden.

The Wantirna locals purchased a two-bedroom, one-bathroom as an addition to their diversified portfolio of property investments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=173740]

MK: How did you discover Sky Garden?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: We discovered it online and after a few calls, we met the team at The Glen display suite and took the process forward.&nbsp;

MK: What makes Sky Garden an attractive investment opportunity?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: The perfect combination of quality, amenities and the amazing location that is within top school and transport zones.

Sky Garden is located just above a very high footfall mall in the east, and that makes it an unbeatable location from an established retail market perspective.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=168784]

MK: How do the returns in Glen Waverley compare to investments you have in surrounding areas?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: Glen Waverley is sure to be strong in terms of return on investment as the Glen Waverley secondary and primary schools are among the top in the state and very well respected.

The fact that Glen Waverley is also an established blue-chip suburb with good demographics and retail options, makes it the most sought-after suburb in the East.&nbsp;

MK: Which apartment configuration did you opt for, and what led you to narrow down your decision to the apartment you purchased?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: We opted for a two-bed, one-bath option as it&rsquo;s the best configuration for investment returns and rental.&nbsp;

The apartment we bought is in a secluded part of the floor with close proximity to elevators, which lends itself to both privacy and convenience.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=168551]

MK: Were you already looking for a new property when you discovered Sky Garden?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: We had just started looking at investment purchases when we discovered Sky Garden. The options we were given, and the amazing sales experience, made us decide on this apartment without really looking at other properties.&nbsp;

MK: What made you decide to buy?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: The property gave us the right combination of quality construction, facilities and amenities in a top-notch location.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=173746]

The fantastic sales and after-sales experience from Golden Age was the most pleasant experience, which made us feel at ease and like we had everything covered.

A special mention goes to Ms Silvia Pan for the absolutely fantastic and friendly sales experience and her support. She gave us so much time, taking us through all the options, responding to our queries and providing the right advice.&nbsp;

MK: What do you love most about what Sky Garden has to offer residents?&nbsp;

P&amp;M:

<ul>
	<li>The fantastic retail shopping and culinary experience with The Glen just below the property.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>The quality of construction and the wholesome facilities for residents.</li>
	<li>The location &ndash; near top-notch schools and transport.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

MK: Do you have any advice for budding investors?&nbsp;

P&amp;M: Would recommend budding investors look at location as the primary deciding factor &mdash; preferably proximity to top schools &mdash; as these locations will always be in rental demand.&nbsp;

Quality of construction and after-sales and property management support is also very critical to consider.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=2881]

Urban spoke to investors, Pushpendu and Manisha Gupta, about their property buying journey, and what they love about Sky Garden

max.kwok_55688

What investors are saying about their Sky Garden, Glen Waverley apartment purchase: Urban's buyer Q&A

Residents have moved in to the completed Glen Waverley apartment project Sky Garden.

The striking project was developed by Golden Age Group to a design by Rothelowman.

With buyers having moved in, Urban spoke to first home buyer Adam Feng about his property buying journey, and what he loves about Sky Garden.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=168799]

MK: How did you hear about Sky Garden and were you in the market for a new property at the time?

AF: I used to work at The Glen and would often see Sky Garden salespeople at the kiosk and display suite. At the time I didn&rsquo;t consider buying, but three years later after making enough money, I chose to buy at Sky Garden.

MK: What stood out to you about Sky Garden that assisted you in your decision to buy?

AF: The outdoor environment, especially the huge garden podium. I walk around it at least five times a week, if not every day.&nbsp;

Also, the lift goes directly to the lower ground floor, where The Glen is, so that&rsquo;s super convenient.

The soundproofing in my apartment is really effective. Even though I&rsquo;m facing Springvale Road which can be quite busy, the noise is completely blocked out.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="898" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-08-30_at_11.33.31_am.png" width="1254" />

MK: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

AF: My apartment was new but already finished when I moved in.&nbsp;

MK: What do you love most about living at the development?

AF: I love the sauna and pool. Not many people use it at 7am, so when my girlfriend and I work out in the morning, we have the whole place to ourselves. We use it at least five times a week.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881 project_image_fid=168800]

MK: Is this your first property purchase? How did you find the due diligence research and purchase process?

AF: Yes, it&rsquo;s my first property purchase. I decided I wanted to buy at 18 and started saving, and settled at Sky Garden at the age of 20. The purchase process was good, my only recommendation would be to ensure you do enough research on your own personal financial situation before looking to buy.&nbsp;

MK: Which colour scheme did you choose for your apartment and how did you personalise your home?

AF: I chose my apartment for its lucky number (909A)&nbsp;over the colour scheme (which is light) and also for its view facing the bay and south side. We can see the police academy on top of the hill which is pretty cool.&nbsp;

Our one-bedroom apartment is perfect for my girlfriend and I, but we bought a sofa bed in case we have visitors. There is a large floor-to-ceiling window, which we have positioned my girlfriend&rsquo;s piano beside &mdash; that&rsquo;s probably the most creative thing we have done with the place.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="828" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-08-30_at_11.33.18_am_0.png" width="1374" />

MK: Would you recommend living at a lifestyle precinct like Sky Garden? &nbsp;

AF: I would definitely recommend Sky Garden. Firstly because it&rsquo;s super convenient in terms of location and having The Glen right downstairs.&nbsp;

Secondly, the views are unobstructed as we&rsquo;re the tallest building in the area so when I look out my window there&rsquo;s nothing in the way, unlike the city.&nbsp;

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Urban spoke to first home buyer Adam Feng about his property buying journey

Why a first home buyer secured a Sky Garden, Glen Waverley apartment

A lot has changed for Melbourne Square resident Brendan since his days of regular travel to the US and Canada for work through the 2000s.

Now with three adult children, Brendan and wife Jill were looking for a smaller and more practical space to call home, as their old family house in Glen Waverley was just too big for the two of them.

Before settling with his wife Jill on the 55th floor of our East Tower in 2020, the couple had to weigh up their options and think seriously about how their new space would meet the high quality and everyday amenity options Brendan had come to expect from his experiences visiting other integrated lifestyle precincts throughout North America.

Urban caught up with Brendan recently to chat about his purchaser journey and how he and Jill had settled into the growing precinct since deciding to sell the family home and move closer to the city.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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How did you hear about Melbourne Square and were you in the market for a new property at the time?

B: Jill and I actually stumbled across the display suite by pure chance! It had only just opened, so naturally we popped our heads in to check it out and it was not too long after that when we made our deposit.

With no kids at home anymore, our old family home in Glen Waverley was just too big for our needs and we were also moving to Montreal temporarily for my work which meant that we needed to make a decision on our new home while abroad.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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It was the experience we had during our visit to the display suite that got us over the line and led to us officially making our deposit in 2018 while in Canada. It was quite a surreal experience!

Was there anything that made Melbourne Square stand out for you and helped you make your decision to buy at the project over other residential developments?

B: Setting out on our buying journey, we knew we wanted to live closer to the city. With various developments to consider in Southbank and in Docklands, a standout positive when we were enquiring about Melbourne Square were the different floorplan options available at the project.

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I’ve travelled and worked overseas for a number of years and seen similar high-quality developments established in the US and in Canada, however I had not seen this same approach to integrated precinct living showcased locally until we visited Melbourne Square.

One of the major things that stood out to my wife Jill and I was the quality of the development. There has been a particular effort placed behind the integration of shared facilities which is helping build an authentic sense of community. Melbourne Square is like its own mini-neighbourhood.

What do you love the most about living at Melbourne Square?

B: We absolutely love the location of Melbourne Square and being wedged between South Melbourne and the city. The feel of the Southbank community is terrific and it is great having the park and Boyd Street Community Centre just a short walk away to take our young grandson for walks.

Having a full-line Woolworths supermarket downstairs is incredibly convenient as well. If you need anything for dinner it is so handy to be able to pop into the lift and be at the shops in a couple of minutes.

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The new restaurants around the precinct are great too and we are looking forward to trying all of them. We ate at Waku Waku Japanese recently which was really nice and it is exciting to see other dining places starting to open. The precinct certainly has a vibrancy building about it.

Being so close to the world-class Melbourne arts precinct has allowed Jill and I to fully immerse ourselves in the arts lifestyle. I particularly loved walking to the Malthouse Theatre, which is just a short stroll away, to watch some of their latest live outdoor gigs.

What are your favourite amenities at the precinct?

B: I find the pool on level 54 is a great way for me to stay active. It has a great outlook across the city and towards Melbourne’s east and lets you soak in panoramic views of the Dandenong Ranges. That said, I must give an honourable mention to the whole level eight pool and podium area. The pool space in particular will become a central part of Melbourne Square’s community and it has been great to see people soaking up the sun there.

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Jill is also a big fan of the amenity on offer on level 54. Her favourite place would have to be the gym. There is an extensive range of great equipment in there and its generous size and format means it does not get overcrowded.

Would you recommend living at a lifestyle precinct like Melbourne Square to friends?

B: Yes. I would definitely recommend living at a lifestyle precinct like Melbourne Square to friends and family, but particularly to people that are keen to downsize like Jill and I have from our family home.&nbsp;

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The concierge staff at Melbourne Square are lovely, attentive to our queries, and always greet you warmly when coming and going.&nbsp;

On the whole, our experience with the staff we have dealt with across our entire Melbourne Square journey has been phenomenal and the quality of information included in the marketing assets and floorplate designs have all been very accurate. We have not been oversold the precinct and everything matches what has been delivered.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Before buying we were also able to work with OSK and their team to make some modifications to our bathroom; and any defecting issues we had after moving in were actioned very quickly. Further to this, the quality of the fixtures and fittings is everything we had hoped for and there is plenty of natural light that elevates our living spaces.

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Melbourne Square resident Brendan gives Urban an insight into his new purchase at Southbank's Melbourne Square

“It’s everything we had hoped for”: A resident insight into Southbank's Melbourne Square

First home buyers are securing affordable homes at St Albans, thanks to Cedar Woods’ new St.A townhouse development. &nbsp;

The striking project, designed by DKO Architecture, features 254 two, three and four-bedroom homes which have been crafted to give residents an elevated lifestyle.

Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. &nbsp;

Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey and what she loves about St.A.

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MK: Where did you previously live and why are you moving to St.A?

JN: I currently live in Caroline Springs and decided to move to St.A because of the location. The area has already been largely developed with a train station within walking distance as well as great restaurants.

I spend so much time in the area already. So many of my family and friends live in St Albans and more of my friends are looking to buy in the area.

MK: Were you already looking for property when you discovered St.A?

JN: I’ve been looking for the last few months mainly at new developments around the Maribyrnong, Sunshine and St Albans areas.

<blockquote>
St.A appealed to me because of the price, distance from the city and amenity, available all within my budget.
</blockquote>

MK: What do you love most about what St.A has to offer residents?

JN:&nbsp;There is amazing food and a great community. The train station is a big factor for me, it is walking distance from St.A to the station, whereas right now I have to drive 20 minutes to the nearest station each day.

MK: Which townhome configuration did you opt for, and what led you to narrow down your decision?

JN: I purchased the Argyle townhome which has two-bedrooms, two-bathrooms and a single garage.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="372" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/argyle_0.png?itok=BwP0Dq2-" title="The Argyle floorplan" width="580" />

<figcaption>The Argyle floorplan</figcaption>
</figure>

Price was a big influence. I went through a mortgage broker who helped me figure out what I could afford, and I was thrilled that this was slightly under budget.

MK: What was it like negotiating with the sales agent and the team at Cedar Woods?

JN: Minh was really good to work with; he understood my non-negotiables and replied quickly to get the deal done.

MK: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

JN: I wanted to build and found that buying off-the-plan was a lot easier and stress-free. St.A is already a built-up area and I could see the quality and style of homes Cedar Woods delivered.

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MK: St A has impressive nearby amenity. Which amenity is your favourite?

JN: Definitely the restaurants. My favourite is Thuan Phat, I go there every week!

MK: As a first home buyer, how did you find the due diligence research and purchase process?

JN: I asked advice from family who told me to first go to a mortgage broker to understand my budget. I also watched a lot of YouTube videos and listened to podcasts on how to budget and save for my first deposit.

I was also looking at another development in Sunshine but I liked the St.A amenity more. It is already an established community, whereas the other is still a while away from feeling like a community.

MK: Did you have a set of criteria that your first home had to meet?

JN: I very much looked at this purchase as an investment as well as my first home and having two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a garage was a set requirement for me.

I personally wanted a backyard area as well and I had a preference for a downstairs living area.

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As this was my first home, it had to be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant as well as fit within my budget.

What advice would you have for other first home buyers?

JN: Research as much as you can and understand your budget [and] prepare for the expenses of home ownership as well!

MK: Is there anything else you would like to add about your new home or the area more generally? 

JN: St Albans is such a beautiful place; it has come a long way in recent years. It is such good value being so close to the city; the west is the next big thing!

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Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey 

Why I purchased: The 24-year-old first home buyer of a two-bedroom townhouse at St Albans's St.A development by Cedar Woods

Ryrie Home is the most recent mixed-use project delivered by Victorian developer Franz&eacute; Developments.

Having officially broken ground in April, the tower is on its way to become Geelong&rsquo;s first major hotel and apartment project in 20 years.

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Geelong is the fastest growing regional city in Australia, driven by employment opportunities, education, infrastructure and its coastal lifestyle.

Urban chats with a local first home buyer, who has recently secured their first property at the luxury project, which was listed as Urban&#39;s most popular investor project for Q1 2021.

MK: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

FBH: The government grants on offer as well as the price certainty of buying off the plan. I&rsquo;ve wasted too much time researching and inspecting established properties and then being blown out of the water at auction!

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88245]

MK: Which apartment configuration did you opt for, and what led you to narrow down your decision to the apartment you have purchased?

FHB: I opted for a one-bedroom apartment with the easterly aspect! It enjoys views over the city and towards the bay aswell as the morning sun.

MK: Were you already looking for property when you discovered Ryrie Home?

FHB: Yes, I have been looking around the Geelong area for the best part of a year.

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MK: Did you have a set of criteria that your first home had to meet?

FBH: I wanted a property in a convenient location with a good clean layout and high-quality design.

MK: What do you love most about what Ryrie Home has to offer residents?

FHB: The Residents Rooftop area and the ground level retail amenity. It&rsquo;s going to be a great place to host a BBQ on a warm summers night.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88243]

MK: What was it like negotiating with the sales agent and the team at Franz&eacute; Developments?

FBH: The sales agents were great to deal with. Very knowledgeable and helpful. It was actually a fun experience learning more about the project and selecting the perfect apartment for me!

MK: Is this your first property purchase? How did you find the due diligence research and purchase process?

FBH: Yes, it was my first purchase. The sales agents at the display suite gave us lots of information and we found the internet a great source of information too.

Lots of helpful websites to help refine our search which ultimately led to our decision to buy at Ryrie Home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88248]

MK: What advice would you have for other first home buyers?

FBH: Do your homework and find an agent that genuinely wants to help you make the right decision.

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First home buyers at Ryrie Home purchased an off-the-plan property after wasting too much time inspecting established homes only to be “blown out of the water at auction”


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