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]

Joel Robinson

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

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

First Home Buyer

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What is the government grant for first home buyers?
Here are the links for your state by state guide.
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) scheme was introduced on 1 July 2000 to offset the effect of the GST on home ownership. It is a national scheme funded by the states and territories and administered under their own legislation.
Under the scheme, one-off grants are stillpayable to first home owners that satisfy the eligibility criteria.
To see if you are eligible, click on the links below the correspond to the state or territory you are looking to purchase in.
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New South Wales State Government
<a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/grants" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/nsw.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="138"></a>
 
 
Australian Capital Territory 
<a href="https://www.revenue.act.gov.au/home-buyer-assistance/first-home-owner-grant" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/ACT%20Logo.gif" alt=""></a>
 
Northern Territory State Government
<a href="https://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/nt1.jpg" alt=""></a>
 
Queensland State Government
<a href="https://greatstartgrant.osr.qld.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/qld.png" alt=""></a>
 
Government of South Australia
<a href="https://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/sa.png" alt="" width="309" height="206"></a>
Tasmanian Government
<a href="https://www.sro.tas.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/tas.png" alt=""></a>
State Revenue Office of Victoria
<a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/album_photos_medium_28.jpg" alt=""></a>
Government of Western Australia
<a href="https://www.finance.wa.gov.au/cms/State_Revenue/FHOG/First_Home_Owner_Grant.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/govOfWATextColour_283x268.jpg" alt=""></a>
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

What is the government grant for first home buyers? - state by state guide

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The latest Housing, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia survey found just half of Australian adults own their own home and the wealthiest households in Australia are couples over 65.          
The survey, released by the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research found a decline in home ownership between 2001 and 2014 fell more rapidly for younger age groups, concentrated on those aged under 55.
It said there was also a slight decline in home ownership among persons aged 55–64, from 75.1 percent in 2002 to 72.9 percent in 2014 and little change in home ownership among those aged 65 and over.
"Home ownership among persons aged 25–34 declined from 38.7 percent in 2002 to 29.2 percent in 2014, with much of the decline occurring between 2010 and 2014.
"Among persons aged 35–44, home ownership declined from 63.2 percent to 52.4 percent, and among persons aged 45–54, it declined from 75.6 percent to 67.4 percent.
"Median home values are similar among the three middle age groups (35–44, 45–54 and 55–64), and lower among the youngest (25–34) and oldest (65 and over) age groups. Growth in median home values is somewhat similar across the five age groups. "
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Just half of Australian adults own their own home: HILDA

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A Sydney property first listed above $1 million in August 2015 has popped back on the market with an overall reduction of $325,000, according to SQM Research.
SQM Research's top 10 most discounted properties list noted a new entrant to the list, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-georges+hall-120488325" target="_blank">14 Endeavour Road, Georges Hall</a>, was first listed in August 2015 accepting offers million and is now back on the market for $875,000.
Six of the ten entries are priced under $430,000.
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said the two bedroom home is set on a large 1195 sqm block with the opportunity to knock down, rent, renovate, and or live in and the property appears to be in a good living condition thanks to the current owners recent renovations.
"These renovations include new timber floors and modifications to both the kitchen and main bathroom," he said.
"The listing states that the property features a storage shed and garage, in addition to a large teenage retreat/office area in the rear of the block.
The vendor states that the property is located in a 'prime' location. The property is located approximately 27 km outside of Sydney CBD, and only a short walk away from local Schools, parks, shops and transport." 
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

First home buyer cheapies on the SQM top 10 most discounted list

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Buying a first home can be a daunting task, as Lukas Szymanek and his partner found out. 
The couple went house searching for a year, until a billboard pointed them in the direction of Fairwater. 
“After a year spent looking for houses, we started to think we wouldn’t find anything within our budget. Then we discovered <a href="https://www.frasersproperty.com.au/NSW/Fairwater/Explore/Homes-for-sale">Fairwater,</a>” said Lukas. 
Fairwater, being developed by Frasers Property Australia (formerly Australand) in Sydney’s west, comprises two, three and four-bedroom terraces, townhouses and free-standing homes starting from $627,000. The community is close to Blacktown’s shopping precinct and train station. 
“Being close to the hospital, train station and surrounding amenities was really important for us. We also have an IKEA and Costco close by, as well the park across the road,” said Lukas. 
<img src="/images/2016/02/05/700_lukas.jpg" alt="">
Their house is part of the largest geothermal heating and cooling community in the southern hemisphere, according to Frasers. The environment-friendly technology can save up to 60% on heating and cooling costs compared with a traditional air-conditioned home. 
The temperature underground is cooler than the air in summer and much warmer in winter. Geothermal technology uses this constant temperature by circulating refrigerant through pipes 80 metres underground. When the refrigerant returns to the surface, most of the cooling or heating has already taken place, thus saving on energy costs compared to traditional air conditioning. 
The Fairwater project has got a 6-Star Green Star Communities rating from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), the first in New South Wales.
“It’s been a really refreshing experience. We have been helped through every stage, from information sessions to picking the colour of materials – you become very involved in the entire process,” Lukas said.
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First home buyers search ends at Frasers’ Fairwater in Blacktown

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You may be eligible in 2016 for a one-off grant under the national First Home Owner Grant Scheme regardless of which state or territory you live in.
To see if you are eligible, click on the links below the correspond to the state or territory you are looking to purchase in.
 
New South Wales State Government
<a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/grants" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/nsw.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="138"></a>
 
 
Australian Capital Territory 
<a href="https://www.revenue.act.gov.au/home-buyer-assistance/first-home-owner-grant" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/ACT%20Logo.gif" alt=""></a>
 
Northern Territory State Government
<a href="https://www.treasury.nt.gov.au/TaxesRoyaltiesAndGrants/Pages/default.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/nt1.jpg" alt=""></a>
 
Queensland State Government
<a href="https://greatstartgrant.osr.qld.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/qld.png" alt=""></a>
 
Government of South Australia
<a href="https://www.revenuesa.sa.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/sa.png" alt="" width="309" height="206"></a>
Tasmanian Government
<a href="https://www.sro.tas.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/tas.png" alt=""></a>
State Revenue Office of Victoria
<a href="https://www.sro.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/album_photos_medium_28.jpg" alt=""></a>
Government of Western Australia
<a href="https://www.finance.wa.gov.au/cms/State_Revenue/FHOG/First_Home_Owner_Grant.aspx" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/07/28/govOfWATextColour_283x268.jpg" alt=""></a>
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Are you eligible for a first home owner grant, exemption or bonus? State by state breakout

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As much as society romanticises the first home purchase, ‘getting on the ladder’ is always the dominant motivation for buying that first property.
Behind the Australian dream there is usually a pragmatic calculation by the first time buyer that it’s time to start the process of building equity. The growing equity represents greater security and opportunity, far more so than the physical bricks and mortar. Conversely, those waiting to buy fear not just paying more when they finally succeed, but a longer-range predicament that delaying equity accumulation may close doors to them in the future – say the means to buy a bigger home near a good school or having the funds to invest in a business proposition.
You may shudder at my deconstruction of nest-making into cold-hearted rationalist decision-making. Fortunately, although the dominant factor, there are usually other objectives and constraints that are a little more tender. Many home buyers want or need to be close to family and friends. They may well have a strong bond to a particular area. Work or schooling requirements often constrain our decision-making.
It is these ‘lifestyle’ elements that distinguish the typical home buyer from the out-and-out investor. The investor seeks to maximise their financial return whilst the home buyer concedes some financial gains to accommodate other goals.
But is it possible to have it all: the home that delivers investment grade returns? On paper yes, but it rarely happens without something being compromised.
Typically, the highest quality investment properties are found in the inner suburbs of our capital cities; they tend to be older-style houses or apartments located on quiet streets with a consistent residential architecture. And – here is the rub for those hoping to combine investment and lifestyle goals – they aren’t usually that large. One- and two-bedroom apartments and two-bedroom houses are the most in-demand types of properties by inner suburban renters. Hence those are the ones investors gravitate to and so deliver the best returns.
You may be fortunate that your lifestyle needs mirror the qualities of an investment property. But if not, it’s a case of weighing up which objective is most important to you and accepting the least bad compromise. If you conclude that maximising returns remain paramount, perhaps you can cope with the kids sharing a bedroom for a few years or having to commute a little further to your non-CBD job or to visit the family in suburbia. But of course it is just as reasonable to conclude that you’ll swap some extra capital growth for a bit more space, a shorter commute and proximity to family and friends.
If you do make the lifestyle sacrifice and opt to live in the investment-grade property, consider maximising the rewards by committing to keep the property for the long-term.  Factor into your planning how to retain the property when you eventually decide to change the family home. Execute that plan well and you now have the best of both worlds: the family home that meets your lifestyle needs and an investment property that is earning a rental income and delivering strong capital growth. Moreover, you save on the transaction costs relating to selling the first property (and perhaps buying an investment property at a later date).
Note that there are tax implications relating to an asset that shifts from being a principal place of residence (PPOR) to an income earner. The ATO has a very useful guide on this issue on its website <a href="https://bit.ly/ATOhomerent" target="_blank">here</a>. In short, on the upside, you can now claim back your net expenses including interest at your marginal tax rate.  On the downside, any capital gains made on the property during the period it is leased out are now subject to capital gains tax when you eventually sell the property.  In essence, these changes just put you into the same boat as every other property investor.
Bear in mind that many investors maintain a high level of debt on their investment property throughout the life of ownership in order to maximise their negative gearing tax benefits (whilst aggressively paying down their PPOR loan, which isn’t tax deductible).  But in this change-of-PPOR scenario, if you had been diligently paying down the original mortgage as a home owner, you may find that the loan (which becomes investment borrowings with the change of PPOR) may be so low that your rental income exceeds your expenses.  You can’t just increase the loan to increase the deductions. According to ATO rules, the cost of any further borrowings on the now rental property are not tax deductible. The ATO considers the new loan to be for private purposes and therefore non-deductible.
But if you know when you buy a home that you intend to convert it to a rental property in the future, this scenario can be avoided by taking out a mortgage with an offset account. Rather than paying down principal, you pay money into the offset account. These offset account funds can eventually be withdrawn, preserving the original loan, and maximising your future tax break. Naturally, make sure you obtain advice from your accountant before you proceed.
Attempting to subsume your lifestyle needs to your investment objectives isn’t without risks. You may misjudge how important those lifestyle needs are and find yourself unhappy. This is especially the case when there are others involved i.e. a partner and/or children. At a minimum, you’ll want to have your partner fully on board from the start of the journey and check-in with them from time to time to affirm the joint sacrifice.
RICHARD WAKELIN is the director and founder of <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/" target="_blank">Wakelin Property Advisory</a>.
Richard is hosting a webinar on how to prepare to sell your home or investment property this spring at 8pm Wednesday, August 12. You can sign up <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/webinar" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Careful mixing home making and investing: Richard Wakelin

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First home buyers in Western Australia have been told the $3,000 grant for established homes is still in place for a while yet and hasn’t been abolished.
The State Budget announced that the $3,000 First Home Owners Grant (FHOG), would be axed from established homes.
But REIWA says this won’t happen until the legislation passes through the parliament.
Mr Airey said the Government has indicated it will be in the second half of this year.
“Eligible first home buyers who purchase an established home prior to the legislation receiving Royal Ascent will be able to receive the grant even if settlement is after this date.
“This means that potential first home buyers who are keen to buy an established home and enter the market over the next few weeks will still be able to access the grant for a while longer, and they should talk to their selling agent about this,” Mr Airey said.
Mr Airey said it was also very important to note that the stamp duty exemption for first home buyers will remain in place regardless of other changes.
“Despite the changes to the FHOG, entry-level buyers still do not have to pay any stamp duty for homes up to $430,000. This helps greatly with affordability and saves many first home buyers around $14,000,” Mr Airey said.  
Mr Airey also reminded first home buyers about the Department of Commerce’s Home Buyers Assistance Account (HBAA).
“Many first home buyers on modest <a name="_GoBack" href=""></a>and fixed incomes may find they are eligible for the HBAA. This means if they buy an established home through a licensed real estate agent they can receive up to $2,000 to help with incidental expenses.
“This can include such things as a building inspection, termite inspection, the settlement agent’s fee and mortgage insurance,” Mr Airey said. 
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