The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

Joel Robinson

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <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> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Commercial

<html><body>
A new bar is opening in Sydney’s CBD western corridor and it will be the first video-gamed themed small bar in the entire city.
Set to be located at 199 Clarence Street, and close to Baxter Inn, Lobo Plantation, Papa Gede’s and Since I Left You, the premises were leased by Spawn Point through John Skufris from Ray White Commercial for a private owner.
 “199 Clarence Street offered a lower ground whole floor tenancy with its own amenities, the availability of after hour access and was previously leased as storage space,” Skufris said.
“We were informed this is the Sydney CBD's first and only video gaming-themed small bar.”
The site is between Town Hall and Wynyard.
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/dev-plan-july-8-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: City of Sydney 
“The top floor is currently available for lease with an internal staircase to the building's rooftop area,” he said.
The entire building is six-storeys with a sandstone façade, and comes with independent air conditioning and its own amenities. It had been advertised as having the potential for a small bar subject to council approval – which it appears has been successfully achieved.
Spawn Point, founded by IT-professional and Sydney gamer Ben Mudie and Welder and Central Coast gamer Ben Shute, has taken a three year lease at gross rental of $475 per square metre per annum. The space is 88 square metres.
In June they managed to achieve Licensed Premises status from council.
They will have some tables with in-built arcade machines, and will offer cocktails, locally brewed beer on tap and they will also be accepting BITCOIN payments using a QRCode system via smartphones. Consoles include Xbox, Playstation, Game Cube, Nintendo and a number of vintage systems. These include Super Nintendo Entertainment System, Nintendo 64 and the Mega Drive 2.
“The small bar will target a different culture of people rather than the typical bar crowd,” documents submitted to <a href="https://development.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Datasource/DANotifications/1141038_007.pdf" target="_blank">Council explain</a>.
The notes indicate that the bar has a maximum of 39 sitting, with a total of 60 patrons (not including staff) at any one time.
"The closest residential building is Windsor On Kent located at 365 Kent Street that is approximately 100 meters away. The next closest residential building being Broughton House located at 181 Clarence Street that is approximately 160 meters away," it explains. According to an acoustic report they provided, there shouldn't be adverse ambient noise problems noticed by the residents.
Windsor on Kent's two-bedroom apartments sell for around $700,000 to upwards of $900,000. 
"Signage will be put in place advising our patrons to leave in a quiet fashion to avoid any disturbance to residents of the CBD."
<img src="/images/2014/07/08/dev-plan-july-8-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: City of Sydney 
The proposed hours of business operation included Monday to Sunday 0800 to 0100 the next day, with alcohol to be served from 12.01 to 0045, though it's likely the bar will actually open from mid-afternoon onwards.
Casual and full time staff are expected to be hired.
Some renovations were noted as necessary, including to remove existing carpeting, removing a non-structural wall to create a single large room and removing the kitchenette to be replaced with a bar. Floating wood floor over concrete slab will be in place of the carpet. The bathrooms are also undergoing a re-tiling and replacing the vanities.
The lighting will retain the fluorescent that is currently in the building, and will include directional low powering lighting.
The street façade is the only aspect that would cause issues in regards to heritage listing – and no plans have been proposed to alter this. The internals had been previously modernised.
While it’s the first video game bar, and will likely see vast interest, there have been a number of board game bars and cafes around Sydney.
Glebe’s Bar 99 featured traditional boardgames such as Battleship and Trivial Pursuit, while Madam FlingFlong in Newtown featured Yahtzee, Cluedo and Connect Four. Both no longer operate.
Melburnians will be looking on with interest, following Mana Bar, a similar video game offering, which closed in September last year.
<a href="https://www.spawnpoint.com.au/" target="_blank">Spawn Point’s homepage</a> is currently “coming soon”. The name Spawn Point is taken from the video game colloquialism 'Spawning', which means the creation of a character. Most will be more familiar with the term 'Respawn' which is what occurs after a character dies and needs to re-appear in the game. The spawn point is where the characters appear in the game.
Previous estimates suggested that plans are for a door-opening in August.
For those looking to arcade-ready their home, here’s one <a href="/expert-insights/building/renovation-recreation-how-to-turn-your-bedroom-into-an-arcade">gamers take on a home renovation where he turned his bedroom into an arcade</a>.
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

First video game-themed bar for Sydney

<html><body>
Australia’s commercial property market is expected to see transaction activity hit its second highest annual total in a decade, according to CBRE’s sales data for quarter two. During this period, $6.1 billion of sales were recorded.
The sales data recorded includes all office, retail and industrial sales over $5 million, and saw the first and second quarters of the year record approximately $10.5 billion of property transactions.
Foreign investment into the commercial market has remained bullish - $2.6 billion of the sales transacting in the three months to financial year end were foreign purchases. This was 27% of sales over the quarters.
This is 10% below last year’s record, but still tracking high, explained CBRE national director, capital markets, Josh Cullen.
“Whilst activity is slightly down, this follows a record year and demand for core assets in the Australian market remains extremely strong, as we are still very attractive from a global perspective,” said Cullen.
This has foreign investors continuing to chase core assets, said CBRE senior director, international investments, Michael Andrews.
“With low interest rates and low returns in offshore markets, Australia continues to be a sought after destination for offshore investors,” Andrews said.
The industrial market has been a particular standout, with close to $900 million in sales transacted, up from the same period in 3013 when $400 million of transactions were recorded.
ROUNDUP
SYDNEY: 10% HIGHER IN Q2
MELBOURNE: 22% HIGHER IN Q2
BRISBANE: 33% LOWER IN Q2
</body></html>

Commercial property transactions to reach second highest in decade: CBRE

<html><body>
The sale of the former German Consulate in South Yarra - listed with $5 million hopes - remains wrapped in something of a mystery.
The property was sold last October for an undisclosed price, with its delayed settlement terms yet to reveal its sale price. A caveat suggests its been sold to interests associated with Ian Wright of the Southbank offices of the Paragon Financial Group. Ian Wright founded BMF Construction in 1975.
There's been no development application lodged with Stonnington Council.
In partnership with Caine Property, the local developer BMF Construction director Ian Wright is busy building a prestige four apartment <a href="https://www.domainsouthyarra.com.au/residence" target="_blank">Domain</a> complex in Domain Street, South Yarra where the website suggests one apartment remains unsold through Kay &amp; Burton. It's a David Hicks-designed block with Jack Merlo landscaping on the holding that was bought last year for $6.45 million on nine month delayed settlement terms.
<a href="/news/vic/south-yarras-former-german-consulate-listed-after-five-decades">The 480 Punt Road offering</a> was listed by Colliers International agents Ben Baines and Jeremy Gruzewski, in conjunction with Matt Davis and Gerald Delany of Kay &amp; Burton.
The property was listed by the Federal Republic of Germany who acquired the large mid-Victorian residence in 1955.
The residential zoned, 2,800 square metre block contains several other separate buildings constructed between the 1850s and 1930s. 
Prior to the German Consulate occupying the site, it was owned and occupied by a number of large, well-known families including the Manifolds, Grahams and Morells.
Expressions of interest closed 17 September with Ian Wright's caveat noting the 28 October contract of sale.
There have been no further dealings on the title since then.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

German consul South Yarra plans yet to be unveiled

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Commercial building owners remain unaware of the taxation benefits their property can generate. One of the most beneficial, yet often missed, deductions is building depreciation.
What is Building Depreciation?
As a building gets older and items within it age, they depreciate in value. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) recognises this and allows property investors to claim deductions relating to the wear and tear on buildings and the fixtures and fittings within.
Claiming depreciation is your key to increasing cash flow on commercial properties.
Building write-off can be claimed on the structure of a commercial building so long as construction commenced after the 20th of July 1982. In cases where construction commenced before this date, depreciation can still be claimed on fixtures and fittings.
The tenants of a commercial property are able to claim depreciation on any fit-out they add to a property from the starting date of their lease. This includes assets such as desks, shelving, fire-fighting equipment, security systems and carpet.
Commercial building owners may also be able to claim depreciation on any assets installed and left behind by previous tenants once their tenancy has ceased.
Is Your Property Too Old?
<blockquote class="pullquote pqRight">
Many commercial property owners assume they are unable to claim depreciation
</blockquote>
Many commercial property owners assume they are unable to claim depreciation on their property, or receive significant deductions — because it is too old.
However, there are still significant depreciation deductions available on the fixtures, fittings, plant and equipment contained within the property.
Some examples of these assets include carpets, air conditioning, blinds, hot water systems, light fittings, lifts, partitioning and bathroom accessories.
The Rules in Action
The following case study shows how depreciation can increase the cash flow of a typical commercial property.
Damien owns a commercial office building, which was purchased for $1.1 million. He leases it to a tenant for $1,800 per week (totalling approximately $94,000 per year).
His expenses (including interest, rates and management fees) total approximately $124,000 per year.
Damien engaged BMT Tax Depreciation to prepare a tax depreciation schedule, the first year showed a $40,000 deduction.
The below table shows how Damien's holding costs changed, without depreciation on the left and with depreciation maximised on the right.
<img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-14273 colorbox-14261" src="https://his-best.biz/assets/2014/06/Commercial-with-vs-without.jpg" alt="Commercial with vs without" width="690" height="304">
This example illustrates the benefits of depreciation. Damien has improved the cash flow of this property by $231 per week by simply claiming property depreciation.
Who Should You Talk To?
It is recommended that commercial building owners contact a quantity surveyor to complete a depreciation schedule.
Quantity surveyors are one of the few professionals recognised to have appropriate construction costing skills to calculate the cost of items for the purposes of depreciation.
They are qualified by the ATO under Tax Ruling 97/25 and can ensure both building owners and tenants are able to claim the maximum depreciation deductions.
Bottom line: Ensuring commercial property owners and tenants do not miss out on valuable depreciation deductions can be a very complicated and intricate process. That is why a good idea to contact a specialist quantity surveyor.
Bradley Beer is managing director of <a href="https://www.bmtqs.com.au/" target="_blank">BMT Tax Depreciation Quantity Surveyors</a>.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://his-best.biz/" target="_blank">Commercial Property Made Easy</a>.
</body></html>

bbeer-RnXpp32fnV

Claiming depreciation is your key to increasing cash flow on commercial properties

<html><body>
Swann House, the ornate 10 storey office block at 22 William Street, Melbourne, has been listed for sale.
Offers close 25 July with Klinger Wood agent Eugene Wood who says he is anticipating around $20 million for the uniquely styled building on the corner of William Street and Flinders Lane. 
Swann House has a gross building area of 7,000 square metres with a net building area of 5,700 square metres.
Its floor plates equal around 550 square metre.
The building is about 90% leased reflecting $1,328,000 net income, rising to $1,461,000 on a fully let basis.
The site area is 826 square metre with frontages of 34 metres to William Street and 24 metres to Flinders Lane, set one block and about 100 metres from Collins Street.
It is currently 14 commercial strata lots, including Private Media, publisher of Property Observer.
The building takes the form of a large but simplified modern commercial palazzo form with restrained Greek revival detailing.
The architectural historian, Robin Boyd described the completed building in the seminal text, Victoria Modern, as being `remarkably simple’.
The top two additional matching floors were added to the building in 1948-1949. 
It was built in 1921 as the headquarters of the newly constituted State Electricity Commission of Victoria which was created by an Act of Parliament with Sir John Monash as its chairman. 
The Commission undertook the development of brown coal deposits near Morwell, the construction of the first of a series of steam-powered generators and the high voltage power lines required to bring electricity to the city of Melbourne.
It was designed by AR La Gerche, who was architect to the Commission from 1920 until his retirement in 1938.
 In addition to the William Street Headquarters, La Gerche also designed the Yallourn township and the later now-demolished Electricity Commission buildings on Flinders Street.
It ranks among one of a small number of 20th century multi-storey government offices erected in the pre-World War Two era.
While the William Street building provided the usual clerical, administrative and engineering office areas, it was unique in also housing the central control room of the Commission's power production pool.
Data relating to generation and regulation was fed to the control room by land and radio lines and staff on duty would continuously regulate voltage, carry out system switching procedures, locate and rectify faults throughout the generating facilities, transmission lines, stations and substations that comprised the power production pool. 
Kliger Wood director Eugene Wood says the CBD market is bereft of quality investment grade opportunities with the upside offered by 22 William Street.
Last traded 24 years ago, Swann House holds a Capital City 1 zoning.
“From a development perspective the building lends itself to a potential hotel or as residential (STCA) which would have unencumbered views to the south towards the Yarra and the Southbank and Crown precinct."
He noted the neighbouring building below Swann House was the historic and significantly protected low rise, the Immigration Museum.
Melbourne's founder John Batman's house was on the Swann House site, which no doubt would headline the marketing for any residential or hotel redevelopment in the future.
</body></html>

Swann House, Melbourne listed with hotel and residential conversion potential

<html><body>
Less than one bedroom of purpose built student accommodation is available per 10 students, according to JLL’s Australian Student Accommodation Market Update for 2014, and there's $1 billion of equity waiting to find an opportunity in this market.
<img src="/images/2014/06/18/chart%20of%20the%20week%20june%2018.png" alt="">
Source: Universities websites, JLL Student Accommodation Database 2014, ABS Census 2011, Department of Industry 2012, UCube, HESA 2011/2012
The graph above shows where students are currently living, with the majority opting to live with parents, rent or live elsewhere – such as in serviced apartments – as opposed to in university or commercial provisions. With student numbers increasing, this could be of further detriment to supply and perhaps open an opportunity for a student accommodation provider.
By 2020, growth is expected to result in a total of 760,000 international student enrolments in Australia, which is double 2012 figures.
Chinese students in 2013 made up a 29% share of international students, with 8.8% from India and 4.9% from Korea.
<img src="/images/2014/06/18/student%20number%20june%2018%20one.png" alt="">
JLL director of student accommodation services, Conal Newland, said that purpose built housing by private sector operators is “primarily occupied by international students, at approximately 75%”.
“We anticipate the demand for purpose built student accommodation will increase as international student numbers continue to grow,” said Newland.
“International students bring differing requirements for the design and operation of student housing based on their experience of residential accommodation from their countries of origin and also by the way in which they socialise.”
He noted that this provides an opportunity for the provision of purpose built accommodation, and for domestic and international investors who attempting to enter the Australian market.
“We estimate there is currently over $1 billion of equity looking to invest in the Australian student accommodation market.  These investors are seeking both opportunities to invest on and off campus, existing assets and development opportunities,” he said.
With a lack of assets currently available, transactions have also been limited – bringing just three large transactions, totalling $250 million, in the past 12 months.
</body></html>

Over $1 billion of equity looking to invest in student accommodation market: JLL report

<html><body>
New zoning and Chinese developer interest have combined to deliver half million dollar windfalls for three Bentleigh households.
The off-market deal through Savills Australia, saw three neighbours at 14, 16, and 18 Bent Street, sell their adjoining homes to a developer for $5.76 million.
It was estimated by Savills to be $1.8 million more than could have been expected from separate individual sales.
Savills Australia selling agent Julian Heatherich said the neighbours could have reasonably expected $1.3 million to $1.5 million in separate sales but the combined property provided a more valuable development opportunity.
The undisclosed purchaser intends to seek permission to develop a multi-level apartment building on the amalgamated 1985 square metre site.
Julian Heatherich said an opportunity was created following state government zoning changes last July, after which the local Glen Eira municipality implemented its new Urban Village Policy allowing for multi-storey development of up to four levels in certain locations.
Savills has been active at Bentleigh as it sold just down the street at 23 Bent Street last year. It was a corner allotment of 1058 square metres with a permit to develop a 27 apartment four levels block which sold for $3.4 million, also to a Chinese developer. 
Savills also sold a 748 square metre site at 261 Centre Road, Bentleigh for $2.735 million to a local developer with a permit to develop 28 apartments in February after attracting 150 enquires from local and off-shore developers.
 
</body></html>

Glen Eira urban village rezoning a windfall for trio

<html><body>
Investors who lost a total of about $27 million when the investment fund Wickham Securities collapsed have gained access to internal financial documents that will assist in determining whether to pursue any class action against Wickham’s trustee company Sandhurst Trustees. 
The Federal Court recently ruled the investors should have access to hard copy documents contained in 11 lever arch folders along with an electronic folder of documents with 561MB of data.
On 21 December 2012, Grant Sparks and David Leigh of PPB Advisory were appointed joint administrators of Wickham by a resolution of the directors.
Mostly self-funded retirees had invested around $27 million in the mortgage lender through $1 unsecured deposit notes promising returns of 9.25% prior to its collapse.
Wickham had raised $38,848,471 through the issue of notes under its first five prospectuses.
The aggregate principal amount of notes outstanding was $22,096,890.
The profit for the year ending 30 June 2010 was given as $3,245. The 30 June 2009 profit was $157,711.
In January 2013, the first meeting of creditors of Wickham was held. Sandhurst, representing the noteholders, attended the first meeting of creditors.
The preliminary investigations by the administrators identified a number of “significant issues”.
Firstly the directors had “not accurately [reported] the position and quality of [Wickham’s] loan portfolio” to Sandhurst since at least August 2010 when receivers and managers were appointed to a borrower called WLP Pty Ltd.
Secondly Wickham provided Sandhurst with an “Account Balance Confirmation letter” advising that the balance of Wickham’s “Application Account” was $10,779,835.00 as at 30 November 2012 when the actual balance at that date was $264,892. 
The balance of the Application Account was overstated by $10,514,943.00. 
The administrators expressed this view: “It is our view that this confirmation letter has been fabricated”. 
The administrators also say that their investigations indicate that an account balance of $10,779,835.00 did not exist at any time in the 12 month period prior to Wickham’s letter to Sandhurst confirming that account balance.
Thirdly although the prospectus issued by Wickham dated 15 December 2010 was open for 13 months, Wickham’s records indicate that it continued to accept amounts from noteholders after the closing date of 14 January 2012. The contributions beyond the closing date amount to $1,962,500.
The administrators observed that their investigations revealed that Wickham provided Sandhurst with a schedule disclosing 21 loans totalling $28,181,010 as at 30 June 2012. 
The administrators say that they have identified another loan file where the debt was not reported to Sandhurst as at 30 June 2012. 
The administrators estimated in their preliminary report a range of “gross realisations” that might occur from the loan portfolio as $1,738,000.00 as the low estimate and $6,265,500.00 as the upper estimate with the book value of the loan portfolio recorded as $28,180,010.00 in respect of 22 loans.
The administrators set out a schedule which said that of those loans, three were supported by first mortgage  security; five by second mortgage security; three loans were not supported by any available loan file; seven of the loans were made to entities in respect of which receivers and managers had been appointed to the borrower, and in respect of four loans, the borrower was in liquidation or had become a deregistered company.
The administrators also noted aspects of the loan criteria. They note that loan terms for loans made prior to 9 July 2006 were to be no more than 12 months and loan terms after that date no more than 24 months. The maximum loan to valuation ratio was to be 85% with valuations less than six months old at the time of a loan approval.
Wickham recorded total noteholder liabilities of $27,671,014.
The estimated gross return on the loan portfolio was 6c to 22c in each dollar before taking account of the costs of recovering the loans, legal fees and the costs and expenses of the administrators.
The majority of Wickham investors are from Queensland, many knowing two of Wickham’s directors, Brad Sherwin and his brother-in-law Peter Siemons.
In 2013 ASIC took action in the Federal Court against Sherwin and entities related to him for freezing orders.
 
ASIC <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/wickham-securities-auditor-accepts-asic-life-ban-as-nab-seeks-to-repossess-founder-bradley-sherwins-wooloowin-house/2013062762789" target="_blank">cancelled the registration of Wickham Securities auditor Brian Kingston</a> for undertaking "inferior work" and "failing ins his job" and banned him for life.
</body></html>

Wickham Securities investors win access to internal collapse financial documents

<html><body>
A freestanding IGA supermarket has secured a seven figure sum after it was purchased by a Chinese investor.
The buyer put their faith in the numbers, paying $3,398,888 for the Boondall supermarket. The number eight is associated with prosperity in Chinese culture. The transaction reflected a yield of 8.1%.
Set on a 3,434 square metre site at 2138 Sandgate Road, the 790 square metre supermarket was developed by Hardev Property two years ago. It was sold by in an off-market transaction by Michael Harcourt and Jon Tyson of Savills Retail Sales.
Luck aside, Harcourt said the high profile main road location was a key factor for the buyer.
“IGA Boondall is underpinned by a 10-year lease with a further three five-year options and also features convenient on grade parking for approximately 51 vehicles,” said Harcourt.
According to Tyson, the property combined a number of highly sought after characteristics in the convenience retail market.
“It boasts a prominent left-hand location to capture outbound traffic out of Brisbane and a core non-discretionary offering of grocery and fresh food items,” said Tyson.
“Having opened its doors just two years ago, the Boondall IGA Supermarket is now well established and supported in the local community. As Savills originally secured IGA as the tenant, it is rewarding to have now closed the loop on the property with a strong sales result for both vendor and buyer,” he said.
 
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Chinese investor pays lucky sum for Brisbane IGA

<html><body>
Peter Bond, the chief executive of gas company Linc Energy, has listed the Redfern post office premises.
The Business Review Weekly rich lister <a href="/news/nsw/redfern-proving-magnetic-for-coal-executives">bought it in mid-2011</a> when the former post office commercial premises at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/redfern-proving-magnetic-for-coal-execs/2011062250564" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">113-119 Redfern Street were sold by spruiker Max Markson</a> for $2,125,000.
The building, which has a clock tower and bell, last sold through agents Paul Ephron and Ben Forsyth. Markson had bought it from Sorin Dascalu &amp; Associates in 2006 for $1.9 million.
The former Redfern Post Office, in Redfern, NSW, was built in 1882. It has a two-storey Victorian Italianate building plus a dominant four-and-half-storey corner clock tower. The post office included a telegraph office, parlour, drawing room, three bedrooms, kitchen, a servant’s room, bathroom, scullery, washhouse, fuel shed and two stall stables. 
In 1880, £3000 was provided for the erection of the Redfern post office, and then the Public Works added a clock tower for an estimated extra £700.
The building has 480 square metres of internal space on its 330-square-metre Redfern Street block. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house-redfern-nsw-2016/227755" target="_blank">It has been listed for June 26 auction</a> through McGrath agents James Dack and Chris Chung who don't give any leasing details in the marketing.
One of the largest property sales since was an 1891 heritage building, the Redfern Electric Light Station with 1042 square metres of space.
The grand neoclassical Renwick Street building, the former home of Rolling Stone magazine was briefly converted into the chic showrooms of antiques dealer Martyn Cook and the interior designer Thomas Hamel.
They sold in mid-2013 to publicist Sue Cato of Cato Counsel for $4.5 million having bought it unrenovated for $2.865 million in 2010.
 
</body></html>

Commercial

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Commercial

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News