For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

Canberra

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In Canberra, 74.5% of the 47 reported weekend auction results were sold, lower than last year when there was a 82.8%. 
Canberra prices ranged between $243,000 at Watson and $1.7 million at Red Hill.
The two bedroom 58 square metre 1970s unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-act-watson-126418694" target="_blank">5/156 Knox Street</a> last sold at $88,000 in August 1994.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-red+hill-126473366" target="_blank">25 Fortitude Street, Red Hill</a> offering was a four bedroom two level home designed in 2003 by Collins Caddaye Architects which sold through Peter Blackshaw agent Mario Sanfranceso.
It last sold at $1.2 million in 2011.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Collins Caddaye-designed Red Hill trophy home Canberra's top weekend sale

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<div dir="ltr" align="left">Canberra is in catchup mode – bucking the trend of most capital cities and recording increases in rents and house prices, said Domain Chief Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.</div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">
<div dir="ltr" align="left">The median house price in Canberra increased an impressive 4.3 per cent over the September quarter, to reach $723,980. </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">The result is 10.5 per cent higher than the same time last year.  </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">While median unit prices in the capital city have also increased, they jumped a smaller 1.9 per cent over the September quarter to reach $427,391; 0.5 per cent lower than the same time last year.</div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">Canberra was one of only two capital cities to record a quarterly increase in median house rents, jumping 1 per cent to $505 per week. </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">Unit rents remained steady at $420 per week, up 5 per cent year-on-year. </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">Canberra was the top performer of all capitals for gross rental yields for units, recording 5.77 per cent over the quarter.  </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">“After relatively subdued periods of activity in recent months, Canberra is in catchup mode,” said Domain Chief Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.</div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left">House price growth in the city is expected to continue, given the strong migration to the area and the undersupply of houses, Dr Wilson forecast.</div>
<div dir="ltr" align="left"> </div>
 
</div>
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Canberra's property prices in catch-up mode: Domain

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Woodlea Park, a southern New South Wales rural property, has been listed for sale.
The 1670 hectare property south of Yass is one of few holdings located within a three hour radius of both Sydney and Canberra.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/26/Yass1.jpg" alt="">
It has been held by its current owners for nearly 60 years, with only two managers over the last 51 years.
The property is rated to carry 5,000 crossbred ewes and 200 Angus breeding cows and atleast 17,500 dry sheep equivalent. These will be available for the successful buyer to purchase.
They produce around 5,500 prime lambs per year and up to 180 yearling cattle for market annually.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/26/Yass2.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">The animals are serviced by electric wool sheds, sheep yards, cattle yards and machinery shedding.
Around 75 percent of the property has been pasture improved.
On the parcel is a four bedroom brick managers residence and two staff cottages.
Chris Meares is marketing the property for the Meares online auction scheduled for November 8.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Woodlea Park at Yass listed for sale

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Canberra's Garema Centre has been sold to Geocon for $13.35 million.
Garema Centre, 70 Bunda Street, Canberra City is a standalone retail building, on a 1,052sqm site zoned CZ1.
Matthew Winter, Manager at Colliers International said the listing recording the highest level of enquiry for a Colliers International listed building so far this year.
“Enquiries for 70 Bunda Street far exceeded that of 50 Bunda Street, with a more diverse group looking to secure the asset," he said.
“Unlike many assets offered for sale this year, the flexibility of the 70 Bunda Street site made it an attractive option to a very broad range of buyers.
"We saw significant interest from developers, investors, student accommodation providers, owner-occupiers and hoteliers.
“We saw significant enquiry from hoteliers, and it is not surprising considering the strength of the Canberra hotel market.
"Canberra hotels were the best performing in the country, with RevPAR up 12.8 percent, compared to Australia-wide which saw an increase of just 2 percent, June year-to-date.”
Developer Geocon is looking to develop a hotel, with architects Fender Katsalidis working on the project.
Works are expected to commence in 2019.
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Geocon buys Canberra's Garema Centre

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Canberra is the third most expensive capital to purchase a unit, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that units in Canberra have a median price of $415,000.
This is cheaper than Sydney’s median unit price of $695,000, but is more expensive than Hobart’s $273,500.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-28%20at%201.23.21%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-28%20at%201.23.21%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Canberra is also the third most expensive place to purchase a house with the median price sitting at $605,000 compared to Sydney’s $875,000 or Hobart’s $385,000.
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-queanbeyan-125807802" target="_blank">10/43 Anthill Street</a>, Queanbeyan (above) has been listed for between $410,000 to $425,000.
Built in 2006 it last sold for $405,000 in 2016.
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-kingston-125389850" target="_blank">50/29 Dawes Street</a>, Kingston (below) has been listed for $410,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/28/50_29%20Dawes%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Canberra third most expensive capital to purchase units: CoreLogic

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Renovations are common in Canberra, according to a recent Herron Todd White report.
The property valuation firm says that Belconnen, Woden Valley and Weston Creek are among the suburbs popular for renovations.
“Buyers looking to renovate in the ACT tend to gravitate towards the outer areas such as Belconnen, Woden Valley and Weston Creek.
“There are also some opportunities in the inner north suburbs of Lyneham, Watson and Downer.
“The majority of these houses were built in the 1960s and 1970s and are on much larger blocks than are available in new suburbs,” the report stated.
“Significant capital growth has occurred recently Herron Todd White says.
“Recently there has been some significant capital growth in these areas and well renovated houses have been selling at a premium.
“In some cases renovators prefer the character of an older house but want the functionality of a modern home.
“This is especially true for original houses built in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s in suburbs such as Ainslie, Braddon, Campbell and Yarralumla.
“They are relatively small houses however are often on large blocks meaning there is good potential for extension.
“The majority of renovations in the ACT are in the detached housing market.
“Unit renovations have been done however the large supply of new apartments currently on the market has meant that the profits are relatively low for these projects.
Owner-occupiers seem to be the most common to complete renovations on houses in the ACT,” the report commented.
A recently renovated three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-holt-125554338">13 Longworth Place</a>, Holt (above) was listed on June for $495,000.
Built in 1972 it has since been sold in July for $490,000.
Another three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-chifley-125970806" target="_blank">10 Eggleston Crescent</a>, Chiefley (below) has been listed for $625,000 plus.
Built in 1960 it last sold in 2016.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/23/10%20Eggleston%20Crescent.jpg" alt="">
A recently renovated five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-flynn-125394210">5 Homann Place</a>, Flynn (below) was sold in May for $746,500.
Built in 1975 it last sold for $610,000 in 2010.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/23/5%20Homann%20Place.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a recently renovated three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-palmerston-125393934">21 Bendora Crescent</a>, Palmerston (below) was sold in May for $681,000.
Built in 2001 it last sold in 2002 for $240,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/23/21%20Bendora%20Crescent.jpg" alt="">
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Canberra popular for renovators: HTW

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Lower end retail spaces in Canberra can be purchased from between the mid $5,000 to mid $7,000 per square metre, according to Herron Todd White’s latest June report.
The property investment firm says that waterfront locations can cost up to $10,000 per sqm as the opportunity to secure a water view is preferred over standard street frontage.
“Purchasers wanting access to the retail market in Canberra have the choice of the primary locations of Canberra City, Braddon and Kingston Foreshore, and the secondary locations of Woden, Belconnen and Gungahlin," it says.
Yields achieved for good quality accommodation in primary locations are in the range of 5.5% to 7.25%, according to HTW.
“The typical property would be a unit (strata title) in a complex comprising 50 to 150 square metres within a mixed use commercial and residential development. It would include good exposure to passing traffic and a mix of tenancy occupants such as restaurants, individual clothing retailers and boutique outlets, accompanied by an office and residential component on the upper levels."
“Secondary locations such as Woden and Belconnen are more accessible at the lower end of the market,” the report stated.
New mixed use developments are providing modern, affordable retail spaces, said Herron Todd White.
“A number of new mixed use developments are providing modern space at ground floor level which is more affordable than primary location equivalents.
“These include developments such as Mystere at Macquarie and Altitude, Northpoint Place, Belconnen.
“Market entry prices range from $2,000 per square metre to $7,500 per square metre for a 92 square metre unit with a ten year lease in an established centre.
“Yields achieved for secondary commercial properties range from 6% to 10% and reflect the strength of the lease covenant nature, age of the improvements and the type of purchaser investor or owner-occupier,” the report advised.
Presently the lower sector is stable with demand coming mostly from owner-occupiers or self-managed occupiers Herron Todd White comments.
“The lower price sector is stable at present with demand coming from self managed superannuation funds and owner-occupiers.
“The market appears to be securing long term potential over the initial yield.
“The population growth in the northern suburbs of Canberra and densification of the inner city is seeing demand for this property type grow as people enjoy the convenience of accessible local goods and services.
“Both primary and secondary locations are offering this type of property and continue to evolve.
“We are seeing the emergence of Melbourne style laneway occupants providing interesting and point of difference uses that were previously unavailable to retail uses.
“An example is No Name Lane in the city opposite Hobart Place which provides a vehicle free pedestrian zone, allowing a pleasant alternative to the typical corner shop or shopping centre space situated between two buildings.
Secondary locations are providing opportunities for purchasers to acquire property in the lower price sector at an entry level that is similar to that in prime locations, yet more affordable, the report said.
A retail showroom property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-act-hume-502425706" target="_blank">4 Sawmill Circuit</a>, Hume (above) has sold for $4,310,000 through Burgess Rawson, according to CoreLogic data. It sold after just four weeks on the market.
Similarly, an office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-act-bruce-502430022" target="_blank">15 Thynne Street</a>, Bruce (below) has been put on the market through CBRE. It last changed hands for $3,200,000 back in 2004, CoreLogic RP Data shows.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/23/15%20Thynne%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Retail spaces available in Canberra between $5,500 to $7,000 per sqm: HTW

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A two-storey commercial building in Canberra, with a 15-year lease to a national childcare provider, has been put on the market with price expectations of $6,500,000 through Savills.
The corner property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-act-bruce-502470178" target="_blank">22 Thynne Street</a> is within the Fern Hill Technology Park in the Canberra suburb of Bruce. 
The ground floor is wholly tenanted by Guardian Early Learning Centre until 2029, while there are two new five-year leases to new tenants.
The first floor has been upgraded. The works included reconfiguration to three office tenancies and an upgraded common area for more than $850,000 over the past few years.
The property has an estimated net income of $464,495 pm (fully leased).
The listing agents are Andrew Stewart and LeeAnne Hobbs of Savills.
Stewart said childcare centres continue to maintain their status as one of Australia’s most sought after asset classes.
Recently, guest observer Michael Kark wrote that though the Early Childhood Development and Care industry has been an asset class with strong returns for many years, however, recently the new government childcare rebates, coupled with a number of other well-timed market changes, have seen this particular asset class truly become one to watch for investors.
In the past two years, the child care market has seen a rise in transactions and record yields driven by increased competition from national organisations looking to expand their portfolios, says Savills.
Added to that the suburban Canberra market has remained stable for small to medium commercial properties over the past 12 months with the majority of demand generated by owner-occupiers and small investment syndicates.
“Yields of 5.50% - 7.30% have been achieved consistently throughout 2016, with a Chatswood sale recording a yield of 3.90%,” Stewart said.
“We predict these sorts of properties will continue to attract strong results through the medium to long term nature of their leases and their statutory obligation to be fastidiously maintained” he said.
The property has a CZ5- Mixed use zoning and is for sale by expressions of interest concluding September 6.
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Canberra building anchored by childcare centre listed with $6.5 million hopes: Savills

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Property investors in Canberra now have to do more to secure a good investment, according to Herron Todd White’s latest August report.
The property data firm says that this is due to first home buyers having more options.
“Recent changes to lending and legislation, aimed at enabling first home buyers to enter the market, has had an effect on property investors looking to expand their portfolios.
“These measures were introduced in an effort to allow first home buyers to be more competitive in a heated market.
“As a result, property investors looking for an asset with good yield and growth will have to do their research and be willing to go the extra mile to secure a pro table investment.
“Unlike other states, the ACT has not introduced a scheme which cuts stamp duty for first home buyers.
“There are some incentives available via the government and private developers however nothing similar to those in New Sourth Wales and Victoria,” the report stated.
An increase in the number of apartments have resulted in slow growth for this market Herron Todd White commented.
“With the increased supply of apartments coming onto the market over the next year, the ACT has seen relatively slow growth for this style of property with some properties loosing value.
“However, rental demand for apartments has remained strong despite the increase of supply.
“If property investors are chasing yields and not capital growth, purchasing a new apartment may be a good option.
“This is particularly relevant for apartments in the CBD and district centres such as Woden, Tuggeranong, Belconnen and Gungahlin.
“It should be noted that new apartments in Molonglo Valley, Gungahlin and Tuggeranong may experience low to no capital growth over the next few years due to increasing supply,” the report commented.
A two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-curtin-421762474" target="_blank">16/1 Waddell Place</a>, Curtin (above) is available for rent for $400 per week.
Built in 1995 the property was last sold in 1999 for $149,750 before being rented in 2014 for $345 per week.
Another two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-braddon-421756402" target="_blank">30/11 Ijong Street</a>, Braddon (below) is available for $450 per week.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/09/30_11%20Ijong%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Rental yields for detached housings remain steady Herron Todd White advises.
“Rental yields in detached housing have remained steady but like other capital cities, capital growth has been very strong.
“An option for investors in the ACT may be to purchase a vacant block through the Mr Fluffy Asbestos Removal Scheme.
“There are several hundred blocks being introduced to the market most of which are in sought after established areas.
“Land banking one of these blocks and either selling or developing later may be a pro table option providing investors are able to cover the initial costs.
“However, developers should be wary of the changes to the Lease Variation Charge which took effect on the 1st of July 2017.
“These changes have significantly increased the fee required to build multiple units on residential blocks,” the report advised.
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Savvy Canberra property investments harder to secure: HTW

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The light rail project planned for Canberra will ultimately benefit the city, according to a survey of commercial property owners by Colliers International Research.
Whilst divided on the technology, project timing and future routes, commercial property owners along the Northbourne Avenue corridor are generally positive about the light rail project, the survey noted.
The Colliers International’s ACT Light Rail Survey revealed that commercial property owners believe it will likely provide an economic boost to local business, employment and encourage further investment into the CBD and ACT region from interstate and offshore groups.
“Whilst there was strong consensus amongst owners of the benefits, they noted concerns about the long-term viability of the project given that newer technologies may supersede light rail once construction of the entire network is completed,” said Matthew Winter, manager at Colliers International. 
Valuation firm Herron Todd White had noted earlier this year that the light rail project may have an effect on residential property prices in suburbs serviced by the transport system.
The project’s timing was heavily debated, with varying options on when to introduce the next stages and which town centres should be prioritised.
“Despite not necessarily supporting the proposed technology, half the owners surveyed said now is the right time for light rail to be implemented and indicated the project would serve as a catalyst to reinvigorate tired gateways.
“Owners indicated the light rail network should expand from CBD to Woden next (33 percent) and Canberra Airport (30 percent),” said Matthew.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/LightRailGraph1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/01/LightRailGraph1.png" alt="">
Almost half the owners surveyed felt the light rail would have little to no impact on traffic congestion, though it was a fundamental objective of the infrastructure project.
They believe Canberrans will use light rail to commute to and from work, assuming the stops were near office locations and viable Park-and-Ride solutions are provided by the ACT government.
In fact, owners were concerned with the lack in clarity about transit times and fares, which could make passengers commute by car, finding it a cheaper and more direct option, despite traffic congestion.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/LightRailGraph2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/01/LightRailGraph2.png" alt="">
“Overwhelmingly, owners believe light rail will improve the value of their property,” said Matthew.
“This seems to support the notion that further amenity and infrastructure along the corridor will have a positive benefit for owners through improved tenant retention, increased accessibility, and provide a solution to the current parking shortage, particularly in areas such as Braddon.”
The Colliers report revealed that after the announcement of Stage 1 of the project, 50 percent of property owners along Northbourne Avenue and Flemington Road corridor looked at developing or selling their building for residential purposes. 
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tOOcZ0xolOY&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">Click here</a> to watch the video.
 
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