Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

First Home Buyers

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CDMA Australia has completed the first apartment building of its multi-staged, master-planned community, Rosella Place in Rouse Hill.

The first nine-level building has 72 apartments with large balconies offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. There are just five apartments left for sale in the development.

When completed in late 2023, Rosella Place will comprise 352 apartments across five mid-rise buildings.

The development at 56 Cudgegong Road, Rouse Hill is located in Sydney’s rapidly-growing north-west and is just 100 metres from the newly opened Tallawong Metro Station.

CDMA Australia sales and marketing manager Jonathan Tan said Rosella Place is the ideal purchase for a young family looking to make their first property purchase at a price that suits their budget as well as local downsizers who are looking for zero maintenance.

<img alt="" height="933" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cudgegong_rd_kitchen_.jpg" width="1200">

“Investors will also be drawn to this project attracted to capital growth prospects with the raft of major infrastructure projects coming up in Rouse Hill including the $250 million expansion of the Rouse Hill Town Centre, the new Tallawong Town Centre, the opening of the new Rouse Hill Hospital and the Hills District’s first university, Norwest University", Tan said.

“In as little as five years’ time, Rouse Hill will be a major new centre in Sydney’s north west, home to thousands of more residents but also supported by significant local infrastructure and amenities.”

The next release of apartments at Rosella Place will be launched to market in mid March.

Designed by local architects WMK, Rosella Place, named after the vibrantly coloured Australian bird which is native to the Rouse Hill area, is one of the first residential projects to get underway in the rapidly expanding north west which meets a need for affordable, high quality apartments in close proximity to transport links and new public amenities.

The next release of apartments at Rosella Place will be launched to market in mid March.

About the developer

CDMA is a strategic alliance between major international property development firm Lianfa (Group) Co., Ltd (core arm of Xiamen C&amp;D Co., Ltd) and highly regarded local developer Metro Award Group.
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Investors, downsizers and families to be drawn to new Rouse Hill community Rosella Place

First home buyers have been driving enquiry for the new Sutherland development Grand Vermont, which is nearing completion.

The 100-residence project&nbsp;at 48 Vermont Street, Sutherland, is being developed jointly by construction veterans and well known property developers Home Constructions and Holis.

Benson McCormack Architects have handled the design of the building, with a sleek and unique fa&ccedil;ade the stand out, with the curved architecture encapsulating residents from the street below.

<a href="/buildings/grand-vermont-48-vermont-street-sutherland"><img alt="" height="877" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grand_vermont_sutherland_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

HAUS Agency Director, Alex Vrisakis, said the development offers all the comforts you need in a first home, or perhaps to downsize from the family home.

&nbsp;&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing first home buyers from all over Sydney take advantage of up to $30,000* in Government first home buyer support.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89712]

Since its sales launch, Grand Vermont has sold over&nbsp;40% of apartments&nbsp;during the COVID-19 pandemic. Enquiries have come not just from within the Sutherland Shire, but from greater Sydney.&nbsp;

&ldquo;75% of enquiry on Grand Vermont has been from first home buyers, and 15% of enquiries have been from owner occupiers,&rdquo;&nbsp;Vrisakis said.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re seeing interest not just the Shire, but areas like the North Shore, Inner West Corridor and the Illawara, from those looking for a sea change.&rdquo;

One bedroom apartments start from&nbsp;$550,000, with two bedrooms priced from $730,000, meaning there&#39;s no stamp duty to be paid on those bedroom configurations.

Three bedrooms start from $1.2 million.

The development is located 35 minutes by train to Sydney CBD, less than 5km to Westfield Miranda and&nbsp;Cronulla Beach.

Each of the one, two and three bedroom residences have been designed to capture as much light as possible.&nbsp;They all feature&nbsp;Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances and&nbsp;20mm Caesar Stone benchtops in the kitchen and&nbsp;Tongue n Groove engineered European oak flooring.

<a href="/buildings/grand-vermont-48-vermont-street-sutherland"><img alt="" height="895" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/grand_vermont_sutherland_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

There is a lush communal landscaped outdoor area for residents which keeps&nbsp;strata fees low.

In 2020, Sutherland Shire was voted the #2 most liveable location in Australia in a survey by market research leaders Ipsos.

Find out why first home buyers are flocking to new Sutherland apartment development Grand Vermont

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With the federal HomeBuilder Grant extension to end on March 31, now may be your last chance to save on your brand-new apartment or townhouse purchase.

HomeBuilder provides eligible owner-occupiers, including first home buyers, with a $15,000 grant to purchase a new build or off-the-plan dwelling.

The current government incentives mean that, for many first home buyers, it is cheaper to own than to rent.

However, Melbourne’s property market will not stay this way for long, with an upswing anticipated this year as investor interest rises.

“Right now, first home buyers should be looking to take advantage of all the government grants and concessions while they can”, Cedar Woods’ COO Patrick Archer said.

If you’re looking to cash in on the competitive offers and grants available for only a limited amount of time, here are ten Melbourne residences eligible for the $15,000 HomeBuilder Grant. 
                                       

1. Parkhill Apartments, West Melbourne 
Address: 408 Spencer Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 
One-bedroom apartments from $479,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27406]

If you’re looking to buy now and save, Central Equity’s Parkhill offers buyers the chance to save up to $73,000 in the West Melbourne development. The project developer is matching the HomeBuilder Grant to save buyers $30,000, paired with the potential to save another $43,000 on stamp duty exemptions.

Amenities offered alongside each residence include a rooftop gym for residents, relaxing rooftop garden and a seven-day concierge service. 
 

2. R.Iconic, South Melbourne 
Address: 253-273 Normanby Road, South Melbourne VIC 3205 
One-bedroom apartments from $507,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5234]

R.Iconic Melbourne, delivered by R.Corporation, is re-defining inner-city living in the expanding CBD South precinct. With an expected 2022 move-in, residents can secure a luxury apartment in the complex now and save $15,000, as well as stamp duty savings up to $27,500.

Designed by Plus Architecture, the development offers a collection of one, two and three-bedroom apartments with uninterrupted water views, a zen garden, resort-style swimming pool and more. 
 

3. Aster Apartments, Clayton South 
Address: 456 Haughton Road, Clayton South VIC 3169 
One-bedroom apartments from $396,800

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124]

Another development offering the HomeBuilder Grant is Clayton South’s Aster Apartments. Similar to the last two projects, the development will charge no stamp duty, breaking barriers to property ownership for first home buyers.

As the latest development to be delivered by Cedar Woods, Aster Apartments offers 128 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations in the masterplanned community, Jackson Green. 
 

4. Liberty One, Footscray 
Address: 1 Warde Street, Footscray VIC 3011 
One-bedroom apartments from $396,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=709]

Offering a state-of-the-art gymnasium, outdoor cinema and dining facilities, residents at Liberty One will enjoy countless amenities, contemporary landscaped areas and the convenience of Footscray’s community lifestyle.

Before the end of March, first home buyers can save over $23,000 by utilising the HomeBuilder scheme and the 50% stamp duty reduction. 
 

5. Lincoln Apartments, Williams Landing 
Address: 100 Overton Road, Williams Landing VIC 3027 
Two-bedroom apartments from $419,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27675]

Another offering from Cedar Woods, select Lincoln Apartments residences qualify for the HomeBuilder Grant. Situated within a masterplanned community west of Melbourne’s CBD, the project offers eligible first home buyers up to $25,000 off their home, with an additional $10,000 first home buyers grant.

Designed by DKO Architecture, Lincoln Apartments boasts a rooftop garden, views over the neighbouring conservation reserve and seamless balconies. 
 

6. Trilogy Place, South Morang 
Address: 360 McDonalds Road, South Morang VIC 3752 
Two-bedroom townhomes prices available from agent

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29388]

Buyers who secure a property within Trilogy Place now could also be eligible for the $15,000 HomeBuilder Grant. Delivered by Gibson Property Corporation, Trilogy Place boasts stunning parkland views to the solar power integration, with options to add a 10kWh battery storage system and 5kW solar panel array.

Architecturally designed by Rothelowman, the development offers 55 townhomes with flexible floorplans and customisable option. 
 

7. HOME by Caydon, Alphington 
Address: 626 Heidelberg Road, Alphington VIC 3078 
One-bedroom apartments from $381,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24441]

HOME by Caydon boasts 324 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations, designed by Caydon’s in-house design team. However, residents can save up to $15,000 on the project with the HomeBuilder boost.

Located in the leafy and established Alphington, each residence enjoys three-quarters of an acre of open space, generous storage and European appliances. 
 

8. 1025 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin 
Address: 1-6/1025 Nepean Highway, Moorabbin VIC 3189 
Two-bedroom townhouse from $695,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=14321]

Current grants and concessions at Asher Developments’ Moorabbin project, 1025 Nepean Highway, offers first home buyers potential savings of up to $47,000.

Individually designed with a choice of a traditional design with courtyard access, or a distinctive inverted floorplan, these outstanding townhouses offer uncompromising design on a leafy service road on the edge of the RSEA Park precinct. 
 

9. Salt Townhomes, Torquay 
Address: 85 Grossmans Road, Torquay VIC 3228 
Two-bedroom townhomes from $600,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28795]

Salt Townhomes offers residents sustainable living amongst the Surf Coast lifestyle with 50 three and four-bedroom townhouses available within the project. Select residences in the project, delivered by Baron Water, qualifies for the $15,000 grant.

Each townhouse offers natural materials, a rear garden, double-glazed windows and solar PV panels. 
 

10. Heathmere On the Park, Endeavour Hills 
Address: 20-24 Heathmere Crescent, Endeavour Hills VIC 3802 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $640,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27740]

Eligible for up to $35,000 in savings, Heathmere On The Park is the latest offering from CasUrban. The development boasts an ideal lifestyle balance of spacious multi-level living in an urban pocket renowned for its open parkland spaces.

Each home has been designed by Parallel Workshop Architecture with its occupants in mind, boasting generous floor plans, gardens and terrace areas.
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If you’re looking to cash in on the competitive offers and grants available for only a limited amount of time, here are ten Melbourne residences eligible for the $15,000 HomeBuilder Grant

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10 Melbourne residences eligible for the $15,000 HomeBuilder Grant

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Coronavirus-impacted “pockets” of Sydney’s north-west and inner-south-west have seen falling median values create opportunities for first home buyers, according to CoreLogic head of research, Eliza Owen.

Although Australia’s residential property market has shown resilience, despite the shock of the pandemic, recent value falls may have created an opportunity for first home buyers who want to take advantage of the first home loan deposit scheme (FHLDS).

On February 3, minister for housing Michael Sukkar announced the reissue of around 1,800 FHLDS places, creating opportunity in suburbs where unit medians have slipped below the Sydney threshold of $700,000.

As of January 2021, there was an average of 107 suburbs observed in the capital cities with a median value at or below the qualifying threshold for the FHLDS, assuming the application is for an established property.

In Sydney, where international border closures have created a particular demand shock, median unit values have declined up to -$88,146 between March 2020 and January 2021.

<a href="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png"><img alt="" height="860" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png" width="1446"></a>

<a href="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge image.

As evident in CoreLogic’s data, Rouse Hill had a pre-pandemic median value at $726,900, which has fallen to just $638,755. While other suburbs like Arncliffe and Hurstville have seen changes in median value at -$31,185 and -$65,019, respectively.  

“As more of the housing market is caught in a broad-based upswing, first home buyers could face more challenges getting into the market in the year ahead”, Owen said. 
 

<h2>Sydney units listed at or below the qualifying threshold for the FHLDS 
</h2>

1. Beyond, Hurstville 
Address: 93 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220 
One-bedroom apartments (with study) from $685,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]

Developed by Fridcorp, Beyond’s one-bedroom apartments are listed below the $700,000 qualifying threshold for the first home loan deposit scheme.  

The Woods Bagot and DKO Architecture-designed project features sculptural architecture, multi-sensory living, oversized balconies and a 4,500sqm retail precinct anchored by Woolworths. 
 

2. Bloom Arncliffe 
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205 
One-bedroom apartments from $595,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

The recently completed residential precinct, Bloom Arncliffe, offers 318 apartments across seven buildings, starting from $595,000 – well below the deposit scheme’s price cap.

Delivered by Wingate and designed by Stephen Bowers Architects, the development includes 37 commercial spaces, a youth centre, gym and support facilities.
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Recent value falls may have created an opportunity for first home buyers who want to take advantage of the first home loan deposit scheme

The Sydney suburbs now qualifying for First Home Loan Deposit Scheme after price falls

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EXPERT INSIGHT

First homebuyers commitments hit the highest level since the Rudd stimulus of 2009 in November 2020, as Victoria rebounded strongly post-lockdown.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fhb_commitments_jan.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="329" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/fhb_commitments_jan.jpg?itok=YCZS6Qwy" width="580"></a></figure>Owner-occupier lending is exceptionally strong in New South Wales, Queensland, and Western Australia.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ex-refinancing_jan.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="338" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ex-refinancing_jan.jpg?itok=NpRBYFsH" width="580"></a></figure>And, as expected, investment lending is now increasing, up by 6 per cent in November to be higher than a year ago, also driven by strength in New South Wales and Queensland. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ex-refinancing_2_jan.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="328" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/ex-refinancing_2_jan.jpg?itok=1JdKns_K" width="580"></a></figure>RBA research showed that a permanent 100 basis point decline in the cash rate would likely result in a 30 per cent increase in real housing prices after about three years, which looks eminently possible from these figures, with supply-constrained markets with a concentration of investors seeing the largest effect.
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First home buyer commitments hit the highest level since the Rudd stimulus of 2009 in November 2020

pwargent

Housing lending surges to record high off Victorian rebound post lockdown

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First home buyers are fighting with a 100 pound gorilla with one arm tied behind their backs as they compete with investors who have the luxury of negative gearing and superannuation funds.
I believe the answer to improving affordability lies in rethinking superannuation laws and first home buyer grants.
Historically the family home has been the corner stone of ones wealth but this is in danger of being lost. Superannuation was implemented to help people self fund their own retirement and compliment the wealth in their family homes. I believe that allowing first home buyers to access their super and assist them in laying that foundation keeps within the spirit of superannuation.
A worker who earns the average Australian income of $50,000 a year will have around $36,000 in super by the time they are 30 not including any return on their investments. As a couple that is $72,000! They also have the benefit of diverting more of their income into a tax-sheltered environment. It would not be unreasonable for a first home buying couple to have in excess of $100,000 in super by the time they want to purchase their first home.
A large deposit like this would mean first home buyers have more equity in their home and as a result in a more stable financial position. It would also save a significant amount in interest. For example if a first home buyer had a $100,000 deposit they would only need to borrow around 80% of the property value rather than 90% or more. On a $500,000 home that would save them $2,500 to $3,000 per annum in interest.
They would also avoid paying a hefty mortgage insurance bill of around $5,000 to $10,000 in most cases.
Buying a property is only the first step to home ownership. Keeping up with the mortgage payments is where the real pain starts to bite. If governments really want to help with home ownership they should look at providing ongoing assistance and review first home buyer grants.
First home buyer grants have evolved over the years but on average they provide first home buyers with around $10,000 cash or stamp duty saving benefits. Rather than paying first home buyers a lump sum payment that is usually paid to the banks for mortgage insurance, I believe annual payments will be more effective and a better use of taxpayer money. An annual payment of $2,000 a year for the first five years would help first home buyers establish themselves in the market.
While the devil is in the detail the points outlined above provide a win-win outcome. The government wins as it helps solve first home buyer affordability at no extra cost. The economy wins, as more money will flow into the important building industry. First home buyers win as they will enter the market without paying mortgage insurance and save around $5,000 per annum in holding costs for the first five years.
There is a potential downside in that it would place further pressure on property prices. However this is already happening even without first home buyers and these ideas will go a long way to levelling the playing field between first home buyers and investors.
They would help young Australians into the market and start the process of building wealth in one of our most powerful tax-free investments – our home.
MARK ARMSTRONG is a director of <a href="https://ratemyagent.com.au/" target="_blank">ratemyagent.com.au</a>, Australia’s number one real estate agent rating website.
This article was originally published on Property Observer in October 2013.
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marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

Allowing first home buyers access to super is the answer to the affordability dilemma

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A continuining drop in first home buyer numbers has chief executive of the Real Estate Instute of Western Australia (REIWA), Neville Pozzi, warning the government not to introduced any stamp duty increases for first timers.
He said that this drop should come as a budget warning to the state government.
“Given that first home buyers are dropping in numbers, it’s critical that the Treasurer doesn’t bring back stamp duty for this segment of the market,” Pozzi said.
Currently, first home buyers in Western Australia are exempt from stamp duty payments for homes under $500,000.
“It’s very concerning, however, that Premier Barnett has indicated that the current tax break for first home buyers is under review and might be changed,” he said.
“The housing market is very susceptible to cost pressures and making first homes more expensive would be a terrible blow to the market just as it’s starting to stabilise,” he said.
FHOG applications for the March quarter, as recorded by the Office of State Revenue, recorded a 9% drop. This is 21% below the June 2013 peak.
This drop is across both the established and new-build sectors, with established homes dropping by 14%.
“This means that grants being paid out have now fallen below the average since the FHOG was first introduced 14 years ago,” he said.
He noted that the "last thing" the market needs at present is any added cost pressure on first time buyers.
The median purchase by first home buyers in March was $470,000 in Perth, and $350,000 in regional Western Australia.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

REIWA chief executive warns against FHB stamp duty introduction

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Until now, student debt in Australia has been relatively modest, with low repayment rates, low indexation and high repayment thresholds. This won’t be the case if the government proceeds with changes mooted in the recent budget, including higher fees and higher interest on debts. Australia will move to a student debt model similar to the US, so this is a good place to look at the effects that large levels of debt have on young graduates.
<a href="https://www.demos.org/what-cost-how-student-debt-reduces-lifetime-wealth" target="_blank">Much recent research</a> from the United States shows that student debt is having profound and negative effects, both at the individual and at the national level.
Graduates living with debt
Purdue University is a public university in South Bend, Indiana. President Mitch Daniels commissioned a large, evidence-based study of the impact of student debt on university graduates. <a href="https://www.gallup.com/strategicconsulting/168791/gallup-purdue-index-inaugural-national-report.aspx">The results</a>, based on a survey of 30,000 graduates, were recently released.
The <a href="https://www.nuvo.net/indianapolis/purdues-mitch-daniels-talks-college-costs/Content?oid=2837651#.U4KfSPmSyPY" target="_blank">findings of the study</a> are sobering, on two fronts.
First, student debts weigh heavily on students’ later wellbeing. Wellbeing was measured along five dimensions: life purpose, social engagement, community engagement, financial satisfaction and physical health. Graduates without student debt were seven times more likely to report themselves to be “thriving” along all of these dimensions than graduates (or indeed dropouts) with more than $40,000 in debt.
This finding tends to confirm the results of a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272735813001256">major meta-analysis</a> of evidence from the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. The findings suggest that higher levels of debt while a student are significant predictors of stress and secondary negative health consequences. This study also points to other evidence of serious consequences more generally. Higher levels of debt have serious long-term consequences, including mental, neurotic or psychotic disorders, depression, suicide attempts (or suicide completion), problem drinking and drug dependence.
Secondly, large debt burdens influence choices related to work, careers and lives. Graduates with higher debts are less likely to be entrepreneurial and start new businesses. This is to be expected, as student debt repayments tend to constrain the capacity to borrow for other productive purposes.
In the robust free-market economy of the US, such entrepreneurial timidity among the best and brightest is a source of real and valid concern for policy makers.
Other <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0047272710001337" target="_blank">recent research</a> has shown that students with higher debts tend to pursue higher-paying careers, not pursuing “public interest” jobs in areas like teaching and community services. Over time, this means that public institutions like schools will have to pay higher wages to attract the best and brightest, indirectly shifting some of the cost of student debt back to the taxpayer in the form of higher public sector salaries.
Large student debts <a href="https://www.learnvest.com/2012/10/real-women-speak-out-how-student-loans-have-affected-me/" target="_blank">have also been shown</a> to lead to delays in home purchases and having children.
Debt ain’t free
Shifting more of the burden for higher education back on to students, and saddling them with huge debts, may seem like a good idea for policy makers, but it will have serious long-term consequences for those students and thus the wider Australian community.
In the United States, the average student graduated with around $30,000 of student debt in 2013. Currently, Australian graduates of three-year business degrees have debt of a similar level.
If the proposed changes lead to higher fees, <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-much-student-debt-will-you-be-facing-post-budget-26712" target="_blank">as most analysts expect</a>, it would be reasonable to anticipate the graduates of 2018 completing their three-year degrees with debt of around $50,000.
It would be naïve to think debts of this level won’t have far-reaching consequences for graduates’ well-being and the work and economic choices they make in their lives. These choices will have serious consequences for our economy and society.
John Rice is associate professor in strategic management at Griffith University.
John Rice works for Griffith University, a public university. His most recent previous role was Chief Researcher at the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, a ministerial company owned by the Commonwealth and State education ministers. He has received grant funding from the Australian Research Council. He is a current member of the Australian Labor Party and the National Tertiary Education Union.
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
Photo courtesy of <a href="https://taxrebate.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-rapid_p="22">TaxRebate.org.uk</a> / <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons</a>.
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jake-cSmGT7VXVf

How will rising student debt affect first home buyers?

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Last week we addressed some of the key issues facing younger homebuyers. This week, as promised, we’ve got some practical solutions.
Home buying and these suggested solutions are not for all young people (sub 45). But sitting on your backside, doing another tertiary course, or hoping a magical answer will come from your iPhone is also not the way for every young homebuyer either.
Yes, Australian society is presiding over a system that is unfair on you as young homebuyers.
Australian Society is taking away young people’s housing supply and increasing competitive demand through negative gearing, wealthy immigration and through paying no attention to regional infrastructure. Young people need to push forward a new batch of leaders with ‘we’ ideas instead of ‘me’ ideas and demand change. You need to get out on the streets and protest until you find leaders who can even up the ledger between older and younger Australians but the revolution may take 20 years and you as a young homebuyer can’t afford to wait forever to enter the property market.
Waiting for the market to ease never works.
No easing of the market will assist you to any noticeable degree. If you wait for any future government intervention to save you, your now 6-year-old child may be 26 before you can afford to buy. Your 16-year-old may be a 36-year-old.
You have to take action yourself. Wait for the market to change and you’ll pay the price. Please don’t confuse this statement with passing on buying the wrong home and then continuing to look for the right one in a patient, logical manner.
So our suggestion is don’t focus on the unfairness of negative gearing, super funds, Asian investing, well-off Baby Boomers and private family wealth. Focus on the fact that, this weekend, there are 300 people out there trying to buy the 30 good homes in inner to middle Melbourne on offer.
Yep 270 of those people are going to be unhappy – you need to be one of the winning 30 buyers this weekend or next weekend or later in the year.
So in Inner Melbourne right now; you as a young homebuyer are in a fight, like the wildebeest of Serengeti in a drought. There is limited grass and you need to avoid the predators (dodgy buying and selling agents, dodgy financial planners, dodgy brokers and dodgy advice which may come from well-intentioned people like your friends and relatives). Other predators are negative gearers, super funders and wealthy overseas migrants – not to mention your fellow young homebuyers.
Ok, all this negative and hard stuff is there, but don’t let it overwhelm you. Acknowledge it and move on. Many wildebeest see bad things, but the strong and the smart live on.
<a href="https://marketnews.com.au/2015/06/solutions-for-young-homebuyers/number-of-melbourne-homes-597x437/" rel="attachment wp-att-51096"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-51096" src="https://marketnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/number-of-melbourne-homes-597x437-597x437.jpg" alt="number-of-melbourne-homes-597x437" width="597" height="437"></a>
Our Bidderman statistics (bidders per auction) show that on good homes there are consistently 6 to 10 bidders per well-priced suburb median Inner Melbourne home above a million dollars. It’s the same or even more below $1M.
Not every young homebuyer can be a winner – there are simply not enough good quality Inner Melbourne homes to satisfy demand. This is the mindset I think, or I hope Joe Hockey was trying to espouse. It’s up to you.
So get the right mindset – it’s up to you or you’ll be living in Whoop Whoop West. And when you try and sell in Whoop Whoop West in 10 years, to be closer to schools, the prices in Inner Melbourne could be even more unattainable.
Get the right plan and then go after the right position, right home and right price. 
Get a deposit and get multiple funding sources – banks, relatives, tenants, partner and so on.
I’m not a great saver, more a forced one and I care little about superannuation – which may or may not be a wise move now I’m hitting the twilight years!
I’ve think I’ve worked hard (bought over 1000 homes), had good jobs, lived in secure housing near the city, travelled, raised some great kids, had good family support and a good life (lot more to come I hope). I’ve lived off good income, at times overdrafts, parental help in the early days and growth allowed by negative gearing in the latter days. Our family has been lucky, but we’ve also made our own luck. The one money thought that stands out for me: good capital growth and a good job has given us a good good life and covered over a lot of my life mistakes and money sins.
Saving is good for many and recommended, but my point is there is more than one way to skin a cat (isn’t that an awful saying) and to fund a home. Such as:
*Parents (1) – They are your best chance for help with a deposit and loan guarantees. But you may have to sell them on the idea of helping you as they’ll want to protect themselves as they get older as well. Tell them if they don’t want to drive a hour to see the grandkids then you will need help buying closer (ok, not next door but maybe only 15 minutes away) – pull on the heart strings and then pull on their purse strings.
*Parents (2) – Start hassling them to buy investment homes. They can make their retirement better by buying and renting back to you. These investments build wealth and income and you help each other. It’s the Greek/Italian, Chinese and Jewish way and it works. If you are worried about family arguments, get a written legal agreement, such as a formal lease.
<ul>
<li>* for both of the above, you can’t expect (well you can, but why should they) your parents to do it all. You have to help yourself; to save, maybe get a second job and yes, you may have to move further out (just not too far and good 3P’s), to buy your first home and live in it for 5 to 10 years.</li>
</ul>
Get a good job. Joe Hockey is right–please, I don’t barrack for any political party–unless Pendles or Clokey are running for PM. If you want to be a Buddhist, vegetarian, charity-giving monk then hats off to you; but in all likelihood you won’t be living with three kids in a Hawthorn semi-detached period home. Please I know this sounds harsh–but there is validity to Joe Hockey’s comment – get a job that pays. Sales, Real Estate, Marketing, Small Business...or get a second job, or do this plus ask your parents for help and maybe negatively gear. Do what it takes, and do it sooner rather than later, if buying a good home is an important goal of yours.
 Get creative. Buy the home you can’t afford to live in now by buying and negatively gearing now. Put a tenant in and live at home with Mum and Dad. Or buy a home and live in somebody else’s home while they rent your property. Make sure agreements meet tax laws, but negative gearing on a good capital growth home is such a powerful tool. You need it to beat overseas bidding and if you can get some growth in the next ten years before you can afford to move in, you will have put hundreds of thousands of dollars into your back pocket. And it’s legal and mostly tax free (if you’re smart about it). Yes, of course there are risks, but sometimes to get into the housing market you need to take some risks, even if there is no real safety net.
Get a plan and a process that works.
Price, property and position. These are the three ‘Ps’ you need to keep in mind when planning to buy a property.
Median Price for Precinct, Home with Land, House with a liveable floor plan and all in a position that is near infrastructure.
The knowing is not rocket science – the rocket science, in 2015, comes in the getting.
Have clarity on what you want. Is a particular property really the home for you?
List the financial and emotional outcomes you want from your home under the price, property and position headings. At the end your PPP plan, as a starting point, shouldn’t be more complicated than three sentences. It’s simple but many people don’t work out what they want before buying – they don’t have a plan.
However, avoid plans from financial planners, bankers and seminars – if they involve high risk deals such as off the plans and new apartments – these do not work for young homebuyers.
Remember the FFFs too – five-year, flexible and future-proof. In 2000, a young buyer bought a Docklands apartment for $507,500. They sold it in 2014 for $576,000. At the same time another young buyer spent $493,000 on a family home in Glen Iris. They sold it in 2014 for $1.5 million. <a href="https://www.james.net.au/jba_mhbguide_20_web.pdf"> </a>
Once you have your plan, assess, value and negotiate – eg follow a proven process.
But, just as they don’t plan, many people don’t stick to a process either. And many people can’t negotiate.
Get a professional
My next piece of advice is the advice I would give you if you were having an operation, going to court or starting a business and that is to get a professional. The facts prove themselves. A good professional property advisor will help you.<a href="https://marketnews.com.au/documents/May_Results.xlsx.pdf"> </a>
People think you simply buy a house by sticking your hand up at auction. But only 25%-30% of the properties we bought in May were bought under the hammer. 70-75% weren’t. They were negotiations.
People baulk at paying a 1% fee for an advocate’s services, but while you wait and wait to buy a home, the market goes up. In the past few months some house prices have gone up 10-20% and many buyers are:
<ol>
<li>still not in a home </li>
<li>having to find 10% to 20% more</li>
</ol>
This is all because they felt they couldn’t afford good professional help – when indeed it would have paid for itself 10 or 20 times over in the last few months and perhaps 100 times over a 7 year period. Include it in your bank loan.
Buyer advocates are widely – and wisely – used in Europe and the US.  But most Australians think they can buy a home by themselves because that’s what Mum and Dad did. That was a different time and a different market. It might have worked in 1985 but, for many, it doesn’t work in 2015. You either don’t buy, or you end up buying a home nobody else wants at a price that nobody else was prepared to pay for it.
This week I met Hard Luck Harry and his wife, Hard Luck Harriet. They’ve bid 5 times on homes in the last two years and felt nothing was going right. I made one suggestion – when nothing is going right – go left. Try something different. Hire an experienced, reputable buyer advocate / buying agent.
Yes, we mainly buy properties in the $2m to $6m bracket, but most of the issues are similar for young homebuyers. Most of our clients have affordability issues. Almost everybody we work with has a limited budget, too.
Make good decisions and take action.
Good decisions. It’s all about the decisions you make. Isn’t all of life like that? If you decide not to make a plan, not to get some professional help, not to work hard and not to do your research they are your decisions – and they are bad decisions if you want to buy a good home.
This is what a James Report contains. You need to build your own excel databases to be able to do something like this.
<ol>
<li>Ask questions of your plan</li>
<li>Assess the property (due diligence)</li>
<li>Work through values, not just what the agent says</li>
<li>Get a negotiation strategy that works</li>
</ol>
<a href="https://marketnews.com.au/documents/James_Report_2015.pdf"> </a>
<a href="https://marketnews.com.au/documents/James_Report_2015.pdf" rel="attachment wp-att-51099"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-51099" src="https://marketnews.com.au/wp-content/uploads/JamesReportResults-379x448-379x448.jpg" alt="JamesReportResults-379x448" width="379" height="448"></a>
Finally, I’ll leave you with home-buying wisdom from the Melbourne Homebuyers Guide:
1. Happy spouse, happy house.
2. History repeats itself unless you break the cycle by breaking your habits.
3. Good decisions and bad decisions take the same amount of time and angst – only the quality of the prep is different. Get those 3P’s (price, property type and most importantly position) spot on.
4. Time heals or hides nothing in Melbourne property, it only accentuates.
5. No definition of value maintains its rigour for all people, except value to you; and
6. In negotiation, the closer you get and the more you talk about money, the further you drift from getting what you want.
 and my new No 7. Get the right mindset – its up to you.
Mal writes weekly auction reports, advice and in-depth market analysis on <a href="https://www.jamesbuyeradvocates.com.au/" target="_blank">James' website</a>.
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maljames-vHwm28JUAa

High risk new apartments should be avoided by young homebuyers: Mal James

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While home value rises have been moderate over recent years outside of Sydney and Melbourne, it provides little comfort for first home buyers in the two largest cities who struggle to compete with those that already own homes.
<div>
In 2008, combined capital city home values fell by -6.1 percent in the space of 9 months. By the end of the year, home values had reached and began to climb thereafter.
The drivers of this growth was largely two forms of stimulus: aggressive interest rate cuts and a boost to the First Home Owners Grant (FHOG). Since the boost to the FHOG was removed and many of the existing grants were removed or scaled back, first home buyers have continued to languish at near record low levels. The harsh reality is that first home buyers are struggling to compete with those who already own a home or who are investing.
The first chart highlights the increase in home values across each capital city from December 2008 to April 2016. Another way to think about this is that if in December 2008 you owned a home worth $500,000 it is now worth $758,418 which is $258,418 more than in December 2008. Looking at this same calculation across each capital city, the increases in value over that time based on a $500,000 home owned in December 2008 are: Sydney ($400,825), Melbourne ($338,866), Brisbane ($73,417), Adelaide ($81,029), Perth ($64,096), Hobart ($11,263), Darwin ($109,293) and Canberra ($126,262).
<h3>Cumulative change in home values December 2008 to April 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img1.jpg" alt="">
While the value of a home owner’s property has undergone massive rises, the increase in inflation and wages has been comparatively more sedate.
<h3>Cumulative change in CPI (inflation)  December 2008 to March 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img2.jpg" alt="">
Although combined capital city home values have increased by 51.7 percent between December 2008 and April 2016, inflation has increased by a significantly lower 17.1 percent over the period. CPI has increased by a greater amount than values in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart indicating ‘real’ home values have fallen. Meanwhile in Sydney, Melbourne, Darwin and Canberra CPI growth has lagged that of home value growth.
Looking at wages growth between December 2008 and March 2016, it shows that nationally and in New South Wales, Victoria and the ACT it has lagged value growth across the capital cities. It should be noted that wages are now growing at the slowest pace in at least 18 years and that the increases highlighted do include strong wage increases in the latter part of the mining boom. Nonetheless, the data highlights that in NSW and Vic wages are increasing at a much slower pace than home values in Sydney and Melbourne are.
<h3>Cumulative change in Wage Price Index December 2008 to March 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img3.jpg" alt="">
The final chart shows the change in the value of new lending (excluding refinances) to investors, owner occupier first home buyers and subsequent buyers between December 2008 and March 2016. The chart highlights how the value of lending to owner occupier first home buyers is now lower than it was in December 2008 across each state and territory. This has occurred despite the increase in home values over the timeframe. While lending to owner occupier first home buyers has fallen, lending to investors and subsequent buyers has increased in most states and territories with substantial rises in NSW and Vic.
<h3>Change in the value of new lending to investors, FHB and subsequent buyers December 2008 vs. March 2016</h3>
<a href="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/05/30/2016-05-30---img4.jpg" alt="">
While outside of Sydney and Melbourne home values have increased below or at a similar pace to inflation and wages, it is a very different story in the two largest capital cities. Existing owners of homes in Sydney and Melbourne have seen a significant increase in the ‘real’ value of their home. Subsequently those that do not yet own struggle to compete with investors and upgraders that have been so active in the market and already have significant equity.
The simple answer to this problem is that first home buyers in Sydney and Melbourne should look to buy properties outside of these cities however, that may be a little simplistic. Job creation has not been as strong outside of Sydney and Melbourne and for many moving interstate, employment opportunities are generally a big decision. Even buying outside of Sydney in nearby regional cities may not be attractive because transport infrastructure does not provide quick and efficient access to Sydney and Melbourne from nearby regional cities.
We certainly don’t advocate for the return of grants for first home buyers as they have tended to just push up the cost of housing. Prospective first home buyers are facing some tough choices as they compete with other segments of the market who may have larger budgets or a great deal of equity behind them thanks to a history of strong capital gains. Remaining (or joining) the rental market is one option that many may choose, considering weekly rents are down 0.2 percent across the combined capitals.
Those choosing to rent may decide to make their first home purchase an investment property in a location that is more affordable and better suits their budget. For those first home buyers looking to buy their first home to live in, their options will often be limited to the city outskirts if they are to purchase a detached dwelling, or compromising on space to live closer to where they work and play by choosing a higher density option.
Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.
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