Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

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The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]

Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

Gold Coast

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Accor has chosen Australia as the first Asia Pacific market to, in partnership with sbe, launch the Hyde hotel and lifestyle brand.
This follows Accor's recent acquisition of a 50% stake in sbe in October 2018. 
This launch comes in the form of Hyde Paradiso, due to open on Monday April 1. 
Situated on an elevated beachfront space formerly occupied by restaurant and bar Seaduction in the Peppers Soul hotel in Surfers Paradise, the property has 180 degree ocean views.
It is inspired by LA’s famous Sunset Strip.
The venue will open all day and evolve into an evening lounge and dining experience.
Sam Nazarian, Founder and CEO of sbe said, “everyone at sbe is hugely excited to expand our hospitality brands through the strategic partnership with Accor and to work closely with Simon McGrath and his talented team."
"The sbe portfolio will grow to over 50 hotels by 2020, paired with tremendous expansion in the residential, culinary and entertainment venues, including over 150 global venues in the pipeline," she added.
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The 385 sqm venue will feature a 130-seat restaurant, a 12-metre-long bar and an exclusive 14-person private dining room equipped with its own sgroppino bar.
Hyde Paradiso follows shortly after the opening of Hyde Hotel and Residence Midtown Miami, a 42 storey property with 60 hotel rooms and 410 sold-out luxury residences, with interiors by award-winning designer, David Rockwell in a building designed by Arquitectonica.
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Accor and sbe to launch Hyde brand in Australia

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Property group Pellicano has commenced construction at its newest $32 million mixed-use development in Robina, Gold Coast.
It is being delivered in conjunction with long-time collaborator Quest Apartment Hotels.
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The eight-storey project has been dubbed Quest Robina and Lucia Residences.
It is Quest’s first move into the Gold Coast market and will include 80 rooms, 37 sqm of ground-floor retail, a two-level basement carpark and 24 residential apartments.
Pellicano acquired the site in 2018 from master developer Robina Land Corporation.
It secured planning approval from Gold Coast City Council in August 2018 and sealed a deal with Quest for a multi-project $182 million deal afterwards.
Quest is classified as the largest and fastest-growing apartment hotel operator in Australasia.
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Quest Apartment Hotels General Manager - Growth, James Shields said, “Our long-term partnership with Pellicano has facilitated our move into Robina, Gold Coast.
"We see Robina as a key commercial centre for the Gold Coast economy evidenced by low office vacancy, iconic commercial towers and a range of drivers across the health, sporting and retail sectors to support future growth," He concluded
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The Robina project marks one of four by Pellicano and Quest set for completion in 2020, with additional projects located in the Victorian suburbs of Ballarat, Preston and Geelong.
Once complete, the four projects will deliver 328 Quest apartment-hotel rooms, 99 residential apartments, retail space of 2,500 sqm and a conference centre including theatrette.
Pellicano has successfully completed $2.6 billion in developments since 2000. 
Other projects currently under construction by Pellicano include a 140-apartment tower housed in Brisbane’s South City Square and Alke - a residential project featuring 83 boutique apartments in Oakleigh, Melbourne. 
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Breaking ground at Quest’s first Gold Coast Project

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Sustained population and employment growth on the Gold Coast will underpin the city’s continued maturation as a service centre and business hub, which will in turn strengthen its office market, according to recent research from Knight Frank.
Tania Moore, Knight Frank Partner and Joint Head of Gold Coast, said tenant demand in the region’s office market was steadily improving following the first half of 2018 where business was interrupted by the Commonwealth Games.
“The second half of 2018 and into 2019 has seen stronger levels of tenant enquiry, and we forecast this will only get stronger as the city’s population continues to grow, along with employment growth, which is underscoring office demand,” she said.
The report found, the number of workers on the Gold Coast grew by 24% in the five years to November 2018, with the two fastest growing white collar sectors being Finance &amp; Insurance (up 58%) and Education &amp; Training (up 45%).
Moore said tenant demand in the Gold Coast’s office market had remained dominated by local businesses, but there was a growing core of larger corporates with branch or head offices located in the region, including National Disability Insurance Agency, Mantra Group (Accor) and Wyndham Vacation Resorts and Asia Pacific, creating competition between the two tenant groups for limited stock.
“With only 37,500 square metres of supply added to the Gold Coast market over the past 10 years, equating to a 9% growth in the stock base, there is a relatively small pool of modern assets which can handle the higher employee densities required for major corporate branch offices, processing centres and call centres,” Moore said. 
“This concentrates demand into these relatively few assets and can require tenants to compromise on location or efficiency.
“This disconnect between the wish lists of tenants and the available stock on the ground is likely to only widen in the coming years with limited supply anticipated.”
The Knight Frank research found supply in the Gold Coast office market remained low but pre-committed new construction was beginning to flow through with Acuity Business Park to start construction in Robina.
“The supply of new office space across the core Gold Coast precincts remained stalled during 2018 with only 2,744 square metres of refurbished space returning to the market,” said Jennelle Wilson, Knight Frank Partner, Research and Consulting.
“Supply is expected to remain small, sporadic and pre-commitment driven in the medium term.”
The Knight Frank report commented that total vacancy in the Gold Coast office market was 11.6% after hitting 12% in mid 2018, and up from the 10-year lows of 10.6% in January 2018, according to Property Council of Australia figures.
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Population and employment growth to boost Gold Coast office market: Knight Frank

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Queensland's housing markets are expected to rank among the best performing across Australia during 2019 as they have the key factors that drive growth – liveability, affordability, booming infrastructure and enhanced economic prospects.
The Sunshine State leads the nation when it comes to confidence in residential property, as the gears shift from recovery to rising prices.
The NAB Residential Property Index recently tipped Queensland house prices will grow the fastest of the nation over the next two years.
The survey of more than 300 property professionals confirmed rising sentiment around the Queensland markets. And these property professionals also saw Queensland leading the way when it comes to rental growth.
South East Queensland is tipped to be the prime beneficiary of Sydney and Melbourne’s property slowdown, with the state possibly set to return to its place as Australia’s No 1 destination for interstate migration, as more families and downsizers from the southern cities cash-in for a lifestyle in the sun.
2018 saw strong price growth across Queensland, from suburbs of Brisbane to the coastal localities.
Economic growth and jobs now assisting the property market’s performance as Queensland emerges from the shadow of the mining downturn. 
It is the value gap between the East coast capitals that makes the move compelling for many.
The value gap is the largest it has ever been between Brisbane and Melbourne and the largest in 15 years with Sydney, according to CoreLogic.
A typical house in Brisbane is around $393,000 cheaper than Sydney and $227,000 cheaper than Melbourne, with Brisbane's median sitting at $542,000.
Observers suggest this affordability, coupled with positive economic signs, means Queensland is primed for future growth. 
The increasing opportunity to work remotely, having set up a home business, or taking up a new job in Queensland is a do-able option.
Brisbane's median house price sits at new highs, after posting a 2.3 percent increase in the September quarter, with the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) CEO Antonia Mercorella saying the strength of growth proved that Queensland real estate was a good investment and could be relied upon to deliver capital growth.
“While other markets around the country are struggling in the face of tightened lending criteria and cooling investor appetite, the southeast corner of Queensland continues to deliver steady, sustainable growth,” Mercorella said.
“Queensland’s economy is proving itself to be a good performer, against a backdrop of national gloom, with new jobs bringing population growth and demand for housing."
The REIQ found coastal Queensland locations ranking as the state's strongest performers during 2018.
These included Mackay's housing market which has come back from the mining downturn to post 5.6 percent annual growth in its median house price, according to the REIQ's late 2018 figures.
"We are confident this growth can continue for the moment," the REIQ advised.
The region has the lowest unemployment rate in the state at 3.3 percent, while the population is growing as jobs attract workers back to the region and the rental market is one of the tightest in the state with just 0.9 per cent vacancy.
With a $340,000 median house price, Mackay is still one of the most affordable coastal districts, with prices still at levels below the peak of the mining boom five years ago.
The tightening of bank lending standards has been seen across Queensland, as noted by the latest SEQ report by Ray White on house and land sales.
Despite this there has been an increase in house and land package prices, up 7.8 percent in Brisbane, up 5.05 percent on the Gold Coast sales and 4.99 percent on the Sunshine Coast where house and land package are a popular way to create a new start.
Estate agent John McGrath noted recently that Queensland’s top two regional performers were the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast due to rising demand from interstate home owners and investors. 
One of McGrath's pinpointed suburb's to look out for in 2019 was Pimpama, in the northern part of the Gold Coast.
Pimpama recorded Queensland’s fastest population growth at 31 percent in FY17, with many enthusiastically buying or building brand new homes.
"Pimpama is affordable with a median house price of $475,000 and is located within the rapidly developing northern Gold Coast region along the M1 corridor," McGrath said.
The $100 million Pimpama City Shopping Centre opened in 2018 and the $56 million Northern Gold Coast Sports and Community Precinct is set to open in 2020.
There's also plans for a new train station to better connect Pimpama to Surfers Paradise.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  The economic forecaster BIS Oxford Economics concluded Brisbane will lead the mainland capitals with price growth.
 
JUST ADDED
 
 
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Queensland to rank among best state markets in 2019

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Total sales activity across the Gold Coast strata office market remained robust throughout 2018, according to Ray White’s research for Gold Coast Small Suites.
The data showed after a strong 2017 result, low interest rates continued to be a driving force for private investors in this market, despite some uncertainty surrounding financing availability.
Ray White’s Head of Research Vanessa Rader said following an end-of-year rush, 2018 saw $42.79 million change hands.
“While this is down 13.84% compared to the busy 2017 period, it remains the second highest sales over the past 10 years,” Rader said.
“Confidence continues to be high across the Gold Coast post-Commonwealth Games, with much energy and optimism around business growth, which has resulted in some improvements in employment.
“We’ve seen both local investors and owner occupiers seek investment into the office market to shelter from volatile occupation costs and in anticipation for business expansion, as well as securing a competitive yielding asset.
“Volumes have been highest in Southport and Robina/Varsity Lakes, with these being the two largest office submarkets across the Gold Coast, offering modern facilities.
“Collectively, these two markets represented 68.67% of the 2018 total sales stock, with an average sale price of $840,000. 
“While the Surfers Paradise and Bundall regions both offer more affordable office product, with average sale prices of $536,500 and $284,500 respectively.”
Rader said sentiment continued to be positive for the Gold Coast office market.
“Capital values continued to show upward momentum, with this resulting in the average Gold Coast value increasing for the sixth consecutive year,” she said.
“Currently averaging $3,770 per square metre, this is up 2.31% on last year's result, and has recorded 6.97% annual change over the past five years.
“Bundall remains the most affordable region across the Gold Coast and has shown several years of consistent growth. At just $3,013 per square metre, this market is up 9.96% on the last year, and has shown 4.40% annual improvement over the last five years.
“The largest growth in values has come from Southport, albeit due to the downward correction in values achieved during 2017.
“Currently averaging $3,680 per square metre, this is up 19.26% over the last 12 months, representing a 5.29% increase compared to 2016 results.
“Surfers Paradise/Broadbeach has witnessed a high level of turnover in 2018 representing a small reduction of 3.42%, this average of $3,446 per square metre is the second year of decline after a high level of increase in this market during 2015.
“Another market which has felt a reduction in values has been Robina/Varsity Lakes, currently averaging $3,914 per square metre. This is down 9.50% over the last year, an increase in vacancies in this market being of concern for some buyers.”
Ray White Commercial Gold Coast Office Leasing Specialist Renee Hughes said after some slowdown in leasing activity post financial year, the run to the end of the year saw some increase in activity, continuing the improvement in rental rates of 2018.
“Levels of enquiry have started 2019 similarly to the close of 2018, with demand elevated across all size and quality grades,” Hughes said.
“In terms of location, enquiry has been high across all precincts, however Bundall has been the stand-out performer with occupiers looking towards the more affordable product in a central location.
“Professional Services continue to be the industry most active, resulting in incentives reducing to around eight%, putting further downward pressure on effective rents.
“After a prolonged period of steady rental rate results, 2018’s increased demand translated into small face rental growth, continuing through to the end of the year.  
“Prime smaller stock currently ranges between $320 to $380 per square metre gross, averaging $365 per square metre (2.24% annual growth).
“While Secondary, in the more affordable $230 to $300 per square metre price range, has held consistent at $260 per square metre over the last two years.
“A-grade assets that offer large floor plates in quality locations continue to dictate rents in excess of these rates, upwards of $500 per square metre on a gross basis, with an incentive greater than 10%.”
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Gold Coast strata office market has robust 2018

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National real estate network @realty has signed a five year sponsorship with the Gold Coast Suns Football Club.
They are now the official sponsor of the team’s coaching staff.
@realty will be the Gold Coast Sun's exclusive real estate partner and senior coach Stuart Dew’s first corporate partner.
The partnership has been formed as @realty, which boasts 550-plus agents nationwide, prepares to expand its operations in to the Northern Territory, ACT and Tasmania in the coming months.
"@realty was established on the Gold Coast five years ago and we are headquartered in Surfers Paradise, so we wanted a brand alliance which reflected our roots but also our growing presence nationally," said James Taylor.
"We also look forward to working with the Gold Coast Suns to debut a number of exciting competitions, promotions and game day initiatives for fans all over Australia."
GC SUNS CEO Mark Evans said he was delighted to welcome a new partner to the club. “It’s been an exciting start to 2019 and it’s fantastic that the positive momentum continues by announcing a five-year partnership with @realty,” Evans said.
 
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@realty has signed a sponsorship deal with the Gold Coast Suns

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Architect Bayden Goddard's own home on the Gold Coast has been listed for sale with a revised $4.9 million price tag.
It had been asking $5,295,000 when listed late last year.
Of course designed by the Melbourne-born architect, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-isle+of+capri-129934742" target="_blank">waterfront on the Isle of Capri</a> sits in the tightly held Adam's Basin.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/23/Naples2.jpg" alt="">
It was acquired by wife Jill for $3 million in 2007 when she bought it from photographer Louise Wolbers. 
Spanning 550 sqm of living space, the home has five bedrooms, four bathroom, multiple living areas, an alfresco dining pavilion and a 12 metre swimming pool with separate spa.
There's a 27 metre sandy beach on the 915 sqm waterfront parcel. A pontoon is located just off the beach.
Kollosche Prestige Boardbeach agent Michael Kollosche has the listing.
 
  
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Gold Coast trophy home of architect Bayden Goddard listed

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Nick Cole has expanded his boutique Gold Coast agency teaming up with Nicole Bricknell as the new faces of Cole Residential.
Ms Bricknell approached Cole after he opened the Isle of Capri-based agency to work together.
“I was ready for a change,” Ms Bricknell, who was previously at Amir Mian Prestige Property Agents, said.
The agency have marketed their acquisition of Bricknell in the property magazines.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/21/Cole2.jpg" alt="">
Cole told the Gold Coast Bulletin they shared many contacts and had heard positive feedback about each other so working together was an obvious choice.
Cole had previously worked for his mother, Lucy for opening his Isle of Capri-based agency last September.
Since joining the family business 10 years ago, Nick quickly become one the top selling agents within the agency and across Australia. 
The independent agency joins a field of other boutique-style agencies on the coast including Genc &amp; Co, Alex Phillis Luxury Real Estate, Lambert Willcox Estate Agents and JW Prestige Agents.
 
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Nicole Bricknell joins Cole Residential on the Gold Coast

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Ray White have their big January 2019 auction, The Event scheduled for January 28.
Around 100 offerings are set to go under the hammer.
<a href="http://theauctionevent.com.au/" target="_blank">The Event</a> has been going for 24 years.
"This year’s could be the most interesting so far,” says Andrew Bell, chief executive officer of Ray White Surfers Paradise Group.
The Ray White Surfers Paradise Group is gearing up for its big annual auction program which is set to cap off the busy Australia Day long weekend on the Gold Coast.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/1/Strip%20ad%20keep%20up%20in%202019.jpg" alt=""></a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/18/Surfers%20apt%202.JPG" alt="">
One property being taken to The Event is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rwsp.net/properties/residential-for-sale/qld/broadbeach-4218/apartment/2019205" target="_blank">610/22 Surf Parade, Broadbeach</a> (pictured above), a two bedroom two bathroom apartment with city and hinterland views.
With 93 sqm the unit has an estimated weekly rental income of $468 per week and outgoings for body corporate at $5,970 per year, GCCC rates: $3,570 per year and GCCC Water at $1,775 per year.
The home was last sold in 2006 for $485,000.
The property was listed for 675 days from 2013 to 2015 listed AT $249,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/18/Surfers%20apt%201.JPG" alt="">
Another property being taken to auction is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rwsp.net/properties/residential-for-sale/qld/surfers-paradise-4217/apartment/2024000" target="_blank">109/1-8 Paradise Island Drive, Surfers Paradise</a> (pictured above), a one bedroom one bathroom unit being taken to auction.
With an estimated weekly rental return of $360 to $390 per week, the apartment's outgoings are body corporate of approximately $95.00 per week, council rates of approximately $59 per week and water of approximately $27 per week.
Located within easy reach Surfers Paradise beaches and the entertainment precint the listing notes that the owner is "extremely motivated and will even sell prior to auction."
Bell expects 2019 to be a pivotal year for the property market due to a looming federal election.
“We’ve taken a different approach to The Event next year for a number of reasons,” said Ray White Surfers Paradise (RWSP) CEO Andrew Bell.
“As always, sellers will still be taking advantage of the peak holiday season on Gold Coast,” he said.
“January remains our best month for tourism, and with more accommodation coming onto the market we’re expecting record numbers again next year accompanied by another strong buying season.
“We’re holding The Event on a Monday for the first time, taking advantage of the full long weekend to give prospective buyers more time to view properties ahead of the auction.”
“Inquiries traditionally are up 60 per cent during January and we’re expecting this year to be no different.
“However, next year’s program will be even more important from an investor’s perspective, especially with changes to property rules expected under a potential new government.
“We know from history that elections tend to distract the market anyway, but this time around there is the added uncertainty over the future of negative gearing on established properties should Labor win the election.
“Combined with the interest we are expecting from our traditional visitors to the Coast, this provides a compelling reason for many property owners to sell in January.
“We have no doubt that investors who depend on the negative gearing rules that exist today also will be looking closely at established properties.
“We’re expecting more buyers to take advantage of the proposed grandfathering provisions for negative gearing of established properties ahead of any official changes to the regulations.”
The Event, run in conjunction with the Gold Coast Home &amp; Living Expo, is being held at RACV Royal Pines Resort on January 28 from 10am.
 Last year's auctions eventually led to the sale of 108 properties, following over 3 million online property views, 2500-plus registered property inspections and more than 170 registered bidders on the day.
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Ray White's The Event auction anticipates pre-election investor spike for Surfers Paradise 

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A recently renovated, Hamptons inspired home on the Gold Coast has been listed by Renee Morgan of Queensland Sotheby’s International Realty.
Morgan says the home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-robina-130165634" target="_blank">5 Julatten Drive in Robina</a> is one of the Gold Coast's most prestigious homes.
The two storey home on a 1,450 sqm waterfront block has four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a separate study.
There is a heated indoor pool and spa. 
Vendor Nicole Marino bought the home for $1,635,000 in 2017 before renovating.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/10/robina%202.jpg" alt="">
Marino said the home is perfectly positioned to experience all that the Gold Coast has to offer.
“Robina Island offers an exclusive family orientated community with several parks and water access within short walking distance, while the home itself feels like a hidden retreat, offering complete privacy from the outside world,” Marino said.
Upon entry, the grand double staircase takes centre stage, with open plan living centred around a large void. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/1/10/robina%203.jpg" alt="">
The spacious ensuited master bedroom includes its own private fireplace and balcony, while the second bedroom features a private balcony and ensuite.
The home has several public and private schools, as well as childcare facilities nearby.
 
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