There’s a quiet patch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>, between the bustle of Glenferrie Road and the curve of the Yarra, that rarely sees change, and even more rarely, new apartments. But that’s exactly where <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pomeroy-pacific-quattro-corp">PQD</a> is planting Kooyongkoot: a deliberate, 18-residence answer to the question of what downsizers actually want.

“This is something this pocket of Hawthorn has never seen before,” says Fil Gacesa, head of sales at PQD. “<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a> will deliver just 18 large-scale apartments in the heart of Hawthorn. It is the true definition of resort-style living.”

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That scale is central to the story. It’s what allows for two dedicated lift cores, short corridors, and a generous lightcourt that draws natural ventilation and sunlight into every residence. It’s also what makes room for the sort of amenity usually confined to high-density towers: a fully equipped wellness centre with infrared and traditional saunas, yoga and pilates studio, cold therapy shower, and treatment room. There’s a golf simulator, car and dog wash stations, and extensive storage too, not bolted on, but baked in from the start.

But more than the checklist, it’s the design intent that carries weight. “This project has been many years in the making,” says Mark Pomeroy, Director of PQD. “Not just in planning, but in listening, to what our buyers and the local community are looking for”.

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That listening shows up in the materials, oak floors, natural stone, V-ZUG appliances, and in how space is handled. Penthouses feature private rooftop terraces with pools. Terraces and garden residences embrace outdoor connection. Inside, the layouts skew large and open, geared for hosting, not just housing.

Architecturally, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>’s approach is grounded. There’s no reaching for spectacle here. Instead, the building offers a sculptural calm, anchored by landscaping from Eckersley Garden Architecture.&nbsp;

“We wanted to create spaces that feel expansive, serene, and meaningfully connected to daily life,” said founding partner Chris Stribley elsewhere.

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That sentiment, calm, connection, echoes in the location itself. Kooyongkoot sits just a short stroll from Central Gardens, Fairview Park, and the Rivoli Cinema. Tram lines and schools are close, but the street is tucked, quiet, and leaf-lined.&nbsp;

“Residents of Kooyongkoot will be a short stroll from Fairview Park, Central Gardens, and the Glenferrie Road retail strip," Gacesa notes, "but you're also cocooned in this peaceful pocket behind extensive landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture.”

Kooyongkoot is set for completion in late 2026.

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Staff Writer

The project that said no to compromise: Inside Kooyongkoot, Hawthorn

When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

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Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

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The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

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Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

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Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

Project management and construction management firm Creative Vision filed the plans for the&nbsp;multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Leading Australian integrated property development group, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>, has released the signature penthouses crowning its landmark AURA by Aqualand precinct at 168 Walker Street in North Sydney, unveiling Il Magnate and La Divina as the largest and most luxurious penthouses in the suburb.

With prices anticipated to commence from $15 million, and each accompanied by a new Porsche Carrera 911 valued at over $500K, the residences mark the culmination of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>’s decade-long journey and the beginning of its final sales chapter. 
&nbsp; 
Their release follows more than $850 million in record-breaking residential sales and the building’s completion and occupation.

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The Richards Stanisich-designed 284 sqm Il Magnate and 224 sqm La Divina penthouses, collectively known as The Icons of AURA, are conceived as grand luxury homes rather than apartments, with expansive proportions, elevated materiality and curated identities that reflect their status as one-off residences.&nbsp;

Il Magnate features a grande master suite, complete with substantial walk-in dressing area and ensuite, three other bedrooms, second ensuite and another bathroom, powder room, open plan kitchen, scullery, substantial dining area and generous living room divided by a feature fireplace, and a multifunction wintergarden, which is ideal for a study and adjoining office breakout space. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the La Divina residence offers the same amenities, sans the powder room, on a slightly smaller alternate floor plan configuration.

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Each occupies half of AURA by Aqualand’s topmost 28th level, comes with four secure car spaces and pairs sweeping Sydney Harbour panoramas with large-scale living spaces, refined detailing and a level of craftsmanship and amenity rarely offered in the North Shore market.&nbsp;

Penthouse residents will also receive Etymon’s ‘Black Key’ private concierge and lifestyle management service, an invitation only offering providing the ultimate in bespoke personalisation, including a range of everyday discrete services, from dinner party management, grocery deliveries, pet feeding or plants watered, dinners, snacks and coffee deliveries, event ticket sourcing, right up to organising travel visas and international airfares. Rarely seen in Australian properties, the service provides residents the benefits of living in a world-class luxury hotel-style home, akin to The Ritz, or the Waldorf Astoria.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>’s Director, Kirsten Stanisich, said the studio set out to craft residences that feel profoundly considered, contemporary and deeply connected to their setting.

“From the outset, we approached these penthouses with the sensibility of a grand Parisian residence - generous in scale, elegant in proportion and designed to feel more like a handcrafted home than an apartment," Stanisich said.

“Their elevated position and sweeping harbour outlook informed every decision, creating a rare connection between urban sophistication and natural calm. We shaped each space with expressive materiality, sculptural forms and bespoke detailing that invite touch and interaction.&nbsp;

“The result is a pair of residences defined by volume, light and an inherent softness - refined, flexible and deeply personal. These penthouses are unlike anything else in North Sydney, offering a sanctuary of true luxury framed by some of the city’s most remarkable views.”

For Aqualand’s Head of Sales &amp; Marketing, Alex Adams, the collaboration with Porsche underscores the shared ethos behind the residences.

“Aqualand’s collaboration with Porsche underpins both brand’s sharing an obsession with craftsmanship, design excellence, and enduring value," Adams said.

“Our penthouses are created for those who appreciate the finer details and expect the extraordinary at every touchpoint. Including a Porsche simply extends that experience beyond the residence - it’s a continuation of the lifestyle our buyers already live.”&nbsp;

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Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, said the penthouses represent both the pinnacle of AURA by Aqualand and an important design benchmark for the company’s future pipeline.&nbsp;

“These stunning penthouses reflect the purest expression of Aqualand’s design ambition," Lin said.

“The unparalleled design intent makes them not only the glistening crown of AURA by Aqualand, but the crown of North Sydney itself. They’re essentially a thank you gift to a burgeoning community that deserves this level of quality and architectural consideration.&nbsp;

“We’re leveraging the unrivalled standard set here as the foundation for what comes next, including our upcoming Anderson Street, Chatswood; 15 Blue Street, North Sydney and Central Barangaroo projects. Purchasers of these penthouses will essentially be living inside the blueprint of Aqualand’s future.

“These landmark residences demonstrate how far North Sydney has evolved and the strength of demand for highly curated, bespoke luxury homes. They’re more than penthouses, they’re legacy residences.&nbsp;

“With AURA by Aqualand now a thriving new precinct with residents well and truly settled, and our in-house world-class lifestyle amenity activated, Il Magnate and La Divina represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an extraordinary piece of North Sydney’s future.”

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Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach has quietly evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most complete coastal lifestyle precincts, defined not just by proximity to the ocean, but by how residential living, local retail and everyday amenity are stitched together.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask Bokarina</a> now represents the final residential chapter in that transformation.

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Over recent years, the Bokarina Beach precinct has taken shape as a walkable, community-oriented neighbourhood, anchored by beachfront access, Lake Kawana to the west, and a growing mix of cafés, specialty retail and public open space.&nbsp;

With Zinc Bokarina already delivered next door by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG), Bask is the last opportunity to buy a brand new apartment within the precinct, effectively rounding out a fully formed coastal village.

GVG has positioned Bask to strengthen that lifestyle framework. Ten ground-floor retail spaces are planned beneath the residences, extending Bokarina Boulevard’s existing activity and reinforcing the area’s everyday convenience, from casual dining and coffee to local services, within a short walk of the beach.

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The residential component comprises 135 apartments across two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, with a clear shift toward larger three- and four-bedroom layouts and penthouses. That mix reflects a maturing buyer profile in Bokarina, where demand is increasingly led by owner-occupiers and active downsizers seeking space, permanence, and connection to place rather than short-term coastal accommodation.

Design and amenity have followed the same logic. Residents will have access to a heated plunge pool, gym, private dining room with a full kitchen, landscaped communal gardens with barbecues and a firepit, and a shared herb and vegetable garden, facilities intended to support daily use rather than resort-style turnover. Pet-friendly features, including a dog wash bay, acknowledge both buyer expectations and the area’s dog-friendly beach, located around 250 metres from the site.

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“Bokarina has become one of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable beachside communities, and Bask represents the very last chance to buy new in this location,” GVG Director Sam Gardner said.&nbsp;

“Our focus has been to create spacious, functional apartments that meet the needs of locals who want to downsize without compromise, as well as those seeking a full-time coastal retreat.”

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Kawana, Bask apartments have been oriented to capture outlooks toward the water or the Glass House Mountains, reinforcing the project’s connection to its natural surroundings. With parks, beachfront paths, hospitals, retail and public transport already in place, Bask arrives at a point where the broader precinct is no longer emerging, but established.

Construction is expected to complete in Q3 this year, with apartments ready to move into this Spring.

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Bask to complete Bokarina’s Sunshine Coast lifestyle precinct as final apartments are released

Buying off-the-plan

Keen golfers&nbsp;have long had the fantasy&nbsp;of&nbsp;waking up on the weekend and getting right into their first round of golf after just a short stroll or a couple minutes in the car.&nbsp;

That&rsquo;s the dream for many, no fighting traffic to get to the club, no need to set aside hours of travel time, and if you get tired and want to quit mid-way through the round,&nbsp;home is round the corner.

Living so close to a golf course sees many of the advantages of living in a golf course community, like quality school zones and&nbsp;increased community amenities, without the downside of a&nbsp;stray golf ball&nbsp;crashing through the&nbsp;window.

Urban has picked out some of the best new apartment developments&nbsp;currently on the market across Melbourne with premium golf course access.

<h2>Omnia</h2>

Address:&nbsp;4-6 Horscroft Place, Moorabbin VIC 3189

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One of the standouts of this list is Omnia in Moorabbin, which is close to half a dozen golf clubs just 10 minutes away by car.

The closest&nbsp;golf course is the Brighton Public Golf Course, merely 3.4 km away, followed by the&nbsp;Yarra Yarra Golf Club,&nbsp;Cheltenham Golf Club, Kingston Golf Club and the&nbsp;Royal Melbourne Golf Club to name just a few.

Omnia, by Shenfield Property, has already been drawing in Melbourne CBD commuters&nbsp;seeking a more affordable property without compromising CBD&nbsp;proximity.

Located less than 500 metres from the Moorabbin train station, Omnia is close to a&nbsp;wide range of schools, higher education facilities, caf&eacute;s, shopping and numerous parks and reserves are at your doorstep, including RSEA Park &ndash; home of the St Kilda Football Club.

<h2>Riverbend Park House</h2>

Address:&nbsp;631 Victoria Street, Abbotsford VIC 3067

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Riverbank - The&nbsp;Park House resides on the banks of the Yarra River immediately opposite Kew and Studley Parklands, 3kms from the CBD. It is the only development on our list to not only have golf course access just across the river, but is also home to its very own golf simulator, perfect for practicing without all the ball fetching.

If residents are eager to get in a few quick holes, the&nbsp;Studley Park Par 3 Golf Course is right there across the Yarra, even closer than the&nbsp;Yarra Bend Public Golf Course Melbourne which is just 2km away.

Park House is the latest completed development out of Salta Properties, and in similar fashion to Omnia, has seen massive success due to it&#39;s&nbsp;proximity to the CBD while retaining an&nbsp;affordable price point.

The nine level building has been designed by SJB Architects and is finished with interiors by Sue Carr at Carr Design Group

<h2>Port Lane</h2>

Address: 201 Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne VIC 3207

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Port Lane has been drawing on&nbsp;not just its beachside location minutes from the Sandridge Beach sand but also how close it is to golf courses. Less than 5km away are both the&nbsp;Albert Park Golf Club&nbsp;and&nbsp;West Gate Golf Club.

ID_Land, listed among Urban&rsquo;s list of 10 developers to watch in Victoria this year, are behind the Williamstown Road development.

Award-winning architects Rothelowman&nbsp;worked in lockstep with interior designers Hecker Guthrie and landscape consultants Tract to create a development that is authentic and distinctive, all while priced lower than Port Melbourne&#39;s median.

Spend your weekends exploring the bayside location, venture into the CBD to peruse the shops and catch up with friends for brunch. Walk to Fishermans Bend, Sandridge Beach, South Melbourne Market or meander along the Bay Trail. Whichever direction residents choose, theyre&nbsp;spoilt for choice, with lush parks and gardens for relaxing, trails for exploring and the Royal Botanic gardens to enjoy an afternoon picnic or bike ride.&nbsp;

<h2>Moonee Valley Park - Thomas Street and&nbsp;Feehan Row</h2>

Address: Moonee Valley Racecourse

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Next on the list are a unique pair of developments in Moonee Ponds, Thomas Street and Feehan Row located in the brand new Moonee Valley Park development by Hamton in partnership with Hostplus.

These two developments, the Thomas St apartments and Feehan Row terraces,&nbsp;are the debut buildings in the brand new&nbsp;$2 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan,&nbsp;designed by Rothelowman.

Located on the east side of the development, both are just 3.8km&nbsp;away from the&nbsp;Riverside golf and tennis centre and less than 5km from the&nbsp;Royal Park Golf Course.

Being a part of the Moonee Valley Park has residents living alongside&nbsp;the crowning jewel of the master-plan, the horse-racing club now known as The Valley. With a new grandstand, the Moonee Valley Racing Club aims to be the premier night racing venue and is already home to major races like the Cox Plate.

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<h2>Canvas</h2>

Address:&nbsp;272 Barkly Street, Brunswick VIC 3056

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ID_Land&rsquo;s latest Brunswick development, Canvas, offers residents a premier home with breathtaking vista&#39;s in a convenient location. It is the one of the developments on this list closest to golf with the Royal Park Golf Course just a kilometre away.

Designed&nbsp;by Rothelowman&nbsp;Architects, Canvas puts a focus on residential facilities with&nbsp;is a variety of rooftop communal spaces providing residential amenity and green spaces, with views of Melbourne&rsquo;s city skyline and parks.

It lies in the heart of Brunswick&rsquo;s vibrant community with retail hotspots, diverse eateries and bustling bars that are just a short walk away.

The development an impressive walk score of 97/100, located less than a minute from nearby shops and just three minutes&rsquo; walk to the nearest tram stop.

<h2>Ivanhoe Gardens</h2>

Address:&nbsp;43 Linden Avenue, Ivanhoe VIC 3079

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Residents at Blue Earth Group&#39;s latest apartment development, Ivanhoe Gardens in Melbourne&#39;s north-east, have more than just golf access with&nbsp;over 2,000 sqm of dedicated amenity space.

The development, built across two stages by leading builder Hamilton Marino to designs by CHT Architects, has 13 different entertainment zones.

It is 3.7km away from the&nbsp;Ivanhoe Public Golf Course, as well as the winding Yarra River along which golf courses are dotted along its shores.

For the fair-weather golfer who only hits the greens when the sun is shining, Ivanhoe Gardens is another which offers&nbsp;a virtual golf simulator.

Living so close to a golf course sees many of the advantages of living in a golf course community, like quality school zones and increased community amenities

jordan_55689

Melbourne's newest off-the-plan apartments and their closest golf courses

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A near $7 million sale has been secured by Michael Paproth, of The Agency, in the Gurner South Melbourne project.

A 545 sqm penthouse at 74 Eastern Rd sold over the summer break.

It was 2016 when all top floor spaces were sold off-the-plan in the project near Albert Park Lake with its design by Elenberg Fraser.

The then five buyers saw Gurner secure sales totaling $10.75 million as one buyer bought two penthouses, outlaying $3.5 million to amalgamate the holding.

Another of the penthouses went for $3.9 million and the others were priced around the high-$1 million mark.

Developer Tim Gurner’s brief to designer David Hicks was to design penthouses “akin to a $10 million custom private residence.”

One of the buyers were retired empty-nesters Ross and Jenny Venuto who secured the $3.9 million penthouse.

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Landscaper Jack Merlo was engaged to work at the nine-level building of 71 apartments.
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It was 2016 when all top floor spaces were sold off-the-plan in the project near Albert Park Lake with its design by Elenberg Fraser

jchancellor

$7 million penthouse sale secured in the Gurner South Melbourne

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Owner-occupiers can stand to save up to $73,000 in the Parkhill apartment development in West Melbourne.

The project developer Central Equity are matching the VIC government's $15,000 HomeBuilder grant to save Parkhill buyers $30,000.

That, combined with the potential to save up to $43,000 in stamp duty for owner-occupiers, totals $73,000 of savings. 

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Investors will benefit from the $24,500 in stamp duty concessions, and Central Equity are offering a rental guarantee for investor purchasers.

One bedroom apartments in the block start from $479,000, or closer to $400,000 for owner-occupiers after the savings boost.

Two bedroom apartments start from $619,000, up to $819,000 when including an extra bathroom and a parking space.

<a href="/buildings/parkhill-apartments-west-melbourne-408-spencer-street-west-melbourne"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/parkhill_melbourne_render_2.jpg" width="1202"></a>

The apartments, many spanning more than 70 sqm, have been designed by Central Equity's inhouse design team. They all have up to 2.7 metre high ceilings, a gourmet kitchen with stone benchtops and Miele appliances and bathrooms with German tapware.

The development has a 6.5 star energy rating, with apartments fitted with double glazed windows.

Residents in the building will have access to a seven day concierge, a rooftop gym and a rooftop garden, complete with barbecues and outdoor seating.
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Owner-occupiers can stand to save up to $73,000 in the Parkhill apartment development in West Melbourne.

Buyers could save up to $73,000* on a brand new home at West Melbourne's Parkhill thanks to developer Central Equity matching the government grants

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Around $8 million has been paid for a yet to be constructed Hamilton Hill home.

The home will be built by GRAYA on a 470 sqm block that cost $1.94 million earlier this year.

The 7 Prospect Terrace holding had been held for four decades by the prior owners.

Larc will be a six bedroom, six bathroom home with five car parking, plus its own gym, pool and cellar.

The design is by Joe Adsett Architects.

Matt Lanchashire at Ray White had the off the plan listing in conjunction with Josh &amp; Ruby Property's Josh Brown and Ruby Kiriyama-Brown.

Larc is located next door to Noir (below) that recently sold for just over $9.4 million to an expat as it was finished being built.

Noir was delivered by Zephyr Industries, spanning five storeys with 1,050 sqm of living space.

<img alt="" height="1589" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/noir_hamilton.jpg" width="2000">

The five bedroom, eight bathroom manse holds river and city views from every level.

Situated at 9 Prospect Terrace, Hamilton Hill, Ray White agent Matt Lancashire held the listing which was designed by The Artificial and built by Braydon Larkin.

The property is described in the marketing material as "rivalling prestige homes in the international market," from the eight-car basement to a private master level.

The brand new Hamilton Hill residence features, swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, office &amp; cinema, a recreation level with bar, kitchenette &amp; BBQ, four external balconies and top of the line security measures including facial and fingerprint scanning.

Graya have another two iconic projects in the early stages on Hamilton Hill.

Graya managing director Rob Gray told The Courier Mail that buying a house off-the-plan and being able to customise the design was becoming increasingly popular among wealthy buyers.
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Around $8 million has been paid for a yet to be constructed Hamilton Hill home

Off the plan luxury home sales popular with wealthy Brisbane buyers

Olivia Round

The ultimate off-the-plan guide: 5 property experts share advice for buying a new apartment or townhome

Des and Nobu had been searching for a property for several years before finding their dream home at <a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide">Penny Place</a> in central Adelaide.&nbsp;

With over 200 Urban property listings in South Australia alone, we understand how overwhelming the variety of choice can be when it comes to choosing an off-the-plan apartment. Here's how Des and Nobu narrowed their search and wound up with their brand new apartment.&nbsp;

<figure><a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="348" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-1e1d85fb56ba7cfe85eb073656e9965a.jpg?itok=aqUUEIoS" width="580" /></a></figure>

<h2>WHY PENNY PLACE?</h2>

Penny Place has many selling points, but it was a combination of the prime location, exceptional customer service and architectural reputation of the designer that won Des and Nobu over.

<blockquote>
"The central location, view to the hills and the Woods Bagot design are very appealing to us.&nbsp;

We attended a sales promotion event in the display suite and met CEO Mark Jarman. His response to our concerns about buying an apartment gave us the confidence to go ahead and sign a contract."
</blockquote>

<figure><a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="417" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-ad4ee200756d9cc05eafa8fe10e5ea71.jpg?itok=AiAhJ9HL" width="580" /></a></figure>

Des and Nobu also commented that the livability of the apartment was a major drawcard.

<blockquote>
"We love the symmetry of the two-bedroom, two-bathroom floorplan and that every room has a full floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall view of the city and hills. The seamless flow from the rooms to the balcony will create a more spacious feeling when entertaining, and no step to the balcony gives safer access."
</blockquote>

<figure><a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="264" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-e10be7a7681873af0449f8f060123832.jpg?itok=y87OdqJd" width="580" /></a></figure>

<h2>THE PRE-REQUISITES</h2>

After living in central Tokyo over a decade and enjoying the city vistas, Des and Nobu decided they wanted to move to a home with a view again. Penny Place apartments feature a range of vantage points, including views of the Adelaide hills, the ocean and the city, giving Des and Nobu the outlook they were looking for.&nbsp;

Other features that were on their 'must-have' list included a second bathroom, a Japanese style toilet with a built-in bidet function, no carpet, and, as avid cooks, adequate bench space was essential.&nbsp;

<h2>WHAT WAS IT LIKE BUYING OFF-THE-PLAN?</h2>

When asked about their experience buying off-the-plan from Flagship Property Group, Des and Nobu explained that they were happy with the experience.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
"The friendly manner of the selling agents made us comfortable to ask questions, and because we had never purchased off the plan before, we had many!&nbsp;

We were encouraged to visit the display suite as often as we wanted, and the agents and developers enabled us to visit Kodo next door several times to make comparisons and to confirm the east or west facing view was what we wanted.&nbsp;

Finally, the patience displayed by the Development Manager was extraordinary, as we asked him many times to cost the various changes we wanted to make to our apartment."
</blockquote>

<figure><a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="290" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide-4b7a7ffac80a3f756c9dac132b8cd355.jpg?itok=T48IetJn" width="580" /></a></figure>

<h2>THE DUE DILIGENCE TEST</h2>

Des and Nobu explained that they searched the internet to check out Flagship Property's recently completed major developments. These include residential and lifestyle projects in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney, as well as significant government and commercial projects across the country, such as Royal Adelaide Hospital. Flagship Property's glowing track record of landmark developments gave Des and Nobu the confidence to buy their new off-the-plan property, knowing that their home will be built to a high standard.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
"We know a couple who bought off the plan into East Park Kent Town, others in Ergo on Norman Street. They all negotiated variations to the plans to create small changes to suit their unique needs and design preferences. They are all very happy with their apartments, felt it was worth the wait for the construction to be completed, and love the inner-city lifestyle."
</blockquote>

<h2>ADVICE FOR BUYERS</h2>

Des and Nobu have a final word of advice for anyone considering buying within the Penny Place development.

<blockquote>
"If you commit early you have a greater choice of apartments and then the chance to make changes to your apartment that cannot be achieved once construction is completed."
</blockquote>

Want to learn more about the Penny Place apartments currently available for sale? Speak to a sales consultant today <a href="/buildings/penny-place-17-penny-place-adelaide">via Urban</a>.

Buyer testimonial: Des & Nobu share why they bought a Penny Place apartment in Adelaide

Purchasing an off-the-plan apartment in Australia is quickly becoming a popular option among property seekers, due to housing demand, affordability and the low maintenance lifestyle offered by apartment living. As one of the largest off-the-plan property platforms in Australia, <a href="/">Urban.com.au</a> has noticed growing confidence among those seeking off-the-plan apartments and townhouses and has helped many buyers secure their dream homes and investment properties.

If you’re looking to make a savvy property purchase in the next 6 to 12 months, now could be the best time to buy off-the-plan for the following reasons:

<h2>Building regulations are stricter today</h2>

Australia has experienced a series of construction failures recently (including faulty cladding and structurally unstable foundations), which has led to a more stringent approach to planning approvals and building practices. As a result of this, the quality of new developments today is likely to be of a higher quality than some of the past.&nbsp;

<a href="/">Urban.com.au</a> provides some great resources for buyers to research off-the-plan properties and prior developments delivered by Developers, Architects and Builders.

<h2>Many buyers may be eligible for stamp duty concessions</h2>

If you’re looking to purchase a new apartment which will be your primary residence for 12 months or more, then you may be eligible for an <a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-australias-first-home-buyer-grants">off-the-plan stamp duty concession</a>. While Stamp Duty concession policies vary state-to-state, the concept generally means that the duty you’re required to pay on the property you’re purchasing is heavily subsidised to account for construction costs.

For example, if you were looking to purchase a $500,000 off-the-plan apartment, but $400,000 of that is to be spent on construction costs, the dutiable value of your home would be $100,000*.

*Stamp Duty = Property price, minus construction cost

<h2>House prices are forecast to increase over the next 12 to 24 months</h2>

One of the differences with purchasing off-the-plan is that the value of the property purchased may change prior to settlement as the broader market conditions change. This can have a negative impact if you buy at the top of the market and then experience a downturn prior to settlement. The inverse of this provides a significant upside for buyers, as you can secure a property while prices are low and see the value appreciation prior to settlement. Currently, Australian property is at the lower end of the market – meaning it might not be an ideal time to sell, but could be a great time to buy.&nbsp;

<h2>Mortgage serviceability has become easier for buyers</h2>

Urban has been <a href="/news/a-borrower-s-market-the-reserve-bank-of-australia-cuts-cash-rate-to-a-record-low">tracking the changes</a> made by the Reserve Bank of Australia to the official cash rate, which is currently at a record low of 0.75%. What this means for property buyers is that home loans can be secured at a lower interest rate, making mortgage serviceability more attainable. Term deposits and savings accounts are likely to accrue less interest due to the cash rate cut, meaning property could be considered a more lucrative investment.&nbsp;

<h2>Finance is easier to acquire due to APRA’s loosened lending constraints</h2>

Earlier this year Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) announced that it would be reducing the minimum interest rate serviceability buffer, providing home buyers with the option to purchase off-the-plan property with a smaller deposit. This gives home seekers on a lower income a greater opportunity of securing a loan, which consequently makes it easier to enter the property market.

Lead image: The Siding by Deicorp

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