Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Hotspots

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Griffith takes the top spot on a list of Canberra's 2016/2017 house hotspots, with an expected increase of 8% over the next 12 months, in a forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median price at Griffith is currently $1,300,000, according to APM, and some sales in the region are continuing to push the media price higher.
An example would be a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-griffith-122914390" target="_blank">18 Bannister Gardens</a> (above) that was recently sold for $1,370,000, which is $70,000 above the median price
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Bonner, Harrison and Chifley as equal second best hotspot regions for houses in the ACT.
Suburb        Postcode       Median price      12 month forecast
Griffith        2603             $1,300,000         6%
Bonner        2914             $570,000           5%
Harrison      2914             $655,650           5%
Chifley        2606              $710,000          5%
Wright        2611              $750,000          4%
Crace         2911               $735,000          4%
Ainslie        2602               $895,000          4%
Campbell    2612               $1,079,500       4%
O'Connor    2602                $932,500         4%
Torrens       2607               $734,000         4%
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Griffith tops list of Canberra house hotspots

<html><body>
Greenway takes the equal top spot as Canberra's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in units in a new list developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median price at Greenway is currently at $385,000 with an expected increase of 4% over the next 12 months, according to APM.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-act-greenway-119652167" target="_blank">17/1 Drew Street </a>(above) recently sold for $410,000 – is $25,000 above the median price – perhaps indicating the suburb is already drawing the attention of investors. 
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Page and Macquarie as the joint strongest unit hotspots in Canberra.
Suburb        Postcode      Median price      12 month forecast
Greenway    2900            $385,000            4%
Page           2614            $425,000            4%
Macquarie    2614            $415,000           4%
Forrest         2603            $682,000           3%
Franklin        2913           $350,000            3%
Garran         2605            $565,000           3%
Bruce           2617            $425,000          3%
Casey           2913            $383,950          2%
City              2601            $525,000          2%
Watson         2602            $433,500          2%
 
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Greenway tops list of Canberra unit hotspots

<html><body>
Larrakeyah takes the equal top spot on a new list of Darwin's 2016/2017 hotspots for investing in units, developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The current median price at Larrakeyah is $533,000 with an expected increase of 3% over the next 12 months, according to APM. 
An example of price movements in the area would be a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nt-larrakeyah-123493258" target="_blank">1A/2 Mauna Loa Street</a> (above) currently on sale for $575,000, which is $42,000 above the median price. Whether it achieves its asking price remains to be seen. 
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/202B2%20Mauna%20Street.jpg" alt="">
However, a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nt-larrakeyah-119815507" target="_blank">202B/2 Mauna Street</a> (above) was recently sold last year for $575,000, $42,000 more than the median price, indicating that prices in the suburb may be on an upward trajectory. 
The list, published by Fairfax Media's The Smart Investor magazine, ranked Nightcliff as its equal best unit hotspot.
Suburb             Postcode     Median price      12 month forecast
Larrakeyah        0820            $533,000                         3%
Nightcliff           0810            $478,100                        3%
Darwin City       0800            $522,000                         2%
Coconut Grove  0810             $446,500                        2%
Lyons               0810             $760,000                        2%
Parap               0820             $545,000                         2%
Winnellie          0820             $325,000                          2%
Berrimah          0828             $550,000                          2%
Muirhead          0810             $345,000                          N/A
</body></html>

Larrakeyah tops list of 2017 Darwin unit hotspots

<html><body>
Paddington takes the top spot on a new list of Brisbane's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in units, developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median unit price at Paddington is $562,500 with an expected increase of 4% over the next 12 months, according to APM's forecast.
An example would be a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-qld-paddington-121593326" target="_blank">3/43 Fernberg Road</a> (above) that was sold for $595,000 – $32,500 above the median price.
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Lutwyche as one of several suburbs in the second rung of best hotspots.
Suburb               Postcode            Median price         12 month forecast
Paddington         4064                  $562,500                           4%
Lutwyche           4030                  $481,000                           3%
Kedron              4031                   $455,000                          3%
Holland Park      4121                   $486,000                          3%
Windsor            4030                   $470,000                          3%
Sherwood          4075                   $450,000                         3%
Bellara              4507                   $285,000                          2%
Wooloowin        4030                   $470,000                          2%
Hawthorne        4171                   $559,500                          2%
Gaythorne        4051                    $441,500                         2%
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Paddington tops list of Brisbane unit hotspots

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House prices in Colonel Light Gardens are tipped to increase by 14% in the next 12 months, with the suburb taking equal top spot in Adelaide's 2016/2017 house hotspots forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median price at Colonel Light Gardens currently sits at $740,000, according to APM.
Several recent sales point to upward price movements in the suburb. An example would be a four bedroom house currently on sale for $790,000 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-colonel+light+gardens-123193034" target="_blank">46 Salisbury Crescent</a>, (above) which is $50,000 above the median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/8%20Rozells%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-colonel+light+gardens-122576806" target="_blank">8 Rozells Avenue</a> (above) was sold for $800,000 – $60,000 above the median price.
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, also consider Henley Beach, Linden Park, Erindale, Hazelwood Park, St Peter and Heatherfield as their strongest hotspots.
Suburb                             Postcode        Median price       12 month forecast
Colonel Light Gardens        5041                $740,000           4%
Henley Beach                    5022               $790,000            4%
Linden Park                      5065               $871,000            4%
Erindale                           5066               $1,076,000         4%
Hazelwood Park                5066                $942,500           4%
St Peters                          5069               $1,252,500         4%
Heatherfield                      5153               $750,000           4%
Firle                                5070               $655,000            3%
Payneham South              5070                $699,000            3%
Kingswood                       5062               $898,000            3%
 
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Colonel Light Gardens tops list of 2017 Adelaide house hotspots

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Miami takes the equal top spot on a list of Gold Coast's 2016/2017 top hotspots for investing in houses, part of a new forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
The median price at Miami is currently $620,000 with an expected increase of 6% over the next 12 months, according to APM.
Several recent sales in the area are indicating that prices in the area may be on the move.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-miami-123313022">48 Lemana Lane</a> (above)recently sold for $675,000, which is $55,000 more than the median house price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/23/39%20Kallay%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-miami-121933258" target="_blank">39 Kallay Street</a> (above) was recently sold for $648,000 – $28,000 more than the median price.
The forecast, published by Fairfax Media's The Smart Investor magazine, ranked Palm Beach and Mermaid Beach as the equal best investor hotspots.
Suburb              Postcode       Median price         12 month forecast
Miami               4220              $620,000                           6%
Palm Beach       4221              $690,000                           6%
Mermaid Beach  4218              $1,292,500                         6%
Ashmore            4214             $535,000                            5%
Mermaid Waters  4218             $700,000                           5%
Paradise Point     4216             $940,000                            5%
Broadbeach Waters 4218         $991,000                            5%
Tugun                  4224           $553,500                            4%
Bilinga                  4225           $540,000                            4%
Currumbin             4223           $810,000                            4%
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Miami tops list of 2017 Gold Coast house hotspots

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Australia’s largest body of professional buyer’s agents is warning homebuyers and investors to ‘think local’ when it comes to property predictions for 2016.
It has urged buyers to base their buying decisions on supply and demand rather than potential hotspots.
The Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA) president Rich Harvey listed some no go zones in capital cities across Australia.
He noted conflicting property predictions suggesting prices in various locations will rise or fall could confuse buyers into making the wrong investment decisions.
“The problem with any forecast is trying to sum up the direction of a diverse range of property markets into a single figure or hotpot,” said Harvey.
“Australia has over 15,000 suburbs and there are more than 700 suburbs in Sydney, more than 540 in Melbourne and around 450 in Brisbane.
“So to say that Sydney will rise by four per cent can give a misleading perception to a novice investor thinking that buying an over-priced off-the-plan apartment in Zetland will actually see price growth in their property.
“That poor investor may well see a five per cent decline in the value of their property due to the rapid increase in supply in that local market.”
Harvey recommends buyers and investors need to look at the individual drivers of supply and demand within a smaller zone and at a suburb level.
“While the overall predictions give you some comfort that property is a good asset class, it is far better to think long-term and become an expert in the local housing market and make informed decisions accordingly,” he said.
“In markets where values are escalating quickly, it’s a potential minefield for buyers who feel under pressure to buy.
“Buyers need to ensure they understand the local growth drivers of supply and demand and that they are in the right price pocket for that particular location. “A buyer’s agent can help analyse the data quickly using the best valuation tools available and guide buyers through the property maze with minimum stress.”
The REBAA recommends the following property investments to avoid in 2016:
Brisbane Brisbane Avoid: High density apartments in the CBD, West End and Fortitude Valley. Recommend: Character houses in low density, established areas with good schools, transport and lots of renovation activity.
Sydney
 Avoid: High density off-plan apartments in Mascot, Zetland, and some pockets around Parramatta and Rhodes with potential for oversupply as record building approvals take shape. Sydney still fundamentally under-supplied, but a short-term spike in units coming to market will depress rents. 
Recommend: Blue chips suburbs with strong growth potential: Eastern suburbs North Shore, inner west. Suburbs with lifestyle appeal, new transport infrastructure, growing population and continuing gentrification.
ACT 
Avoid: High density apartments either existing or off the plan in most areas. 
Recommend: Small boutique existing townhouse developments. Homes in established areas with access to good schools - inner north, inner south, Belconnen and Woden areas.
Melbourne 
Avoid: High density apartment blocks. Much like the Sydney market, avoid areas like Docklands and possibly Fisherman’s Bend and other areas that are being oversupplied with new, high-rise apartment blocks. 
Recommend: Low density developments that are well built with manageable ongoing running costs. Land is in short supply, so if you can afford to buy property in a good, well-serviced location with some land, then do that.
South Australia 
Avoid: Off-the-plan apartments in the Adelaide CBD. 
Recommend: Properties with development potential in middle-ring suburbs continue to increase in popularity. Also character properties with renovation potential in good suburbs on the “fringe” of upmarket established locations.
Tasmania 
Avoid: Lifestyle properties away from major population centres for income investment. Great if you plan to live there but not the best choice for a good performing long-term investment.
Recommend: Character properties in the inner city Hobart suburbs such as North Hobart, New Town and West Hobart are in very high demand with buyers out stripping supply. This shortage of supply is impacting on higher prices. A wellpriced renovator in these areas could be extremely beneficial. Also buying on the fringes of these suburbs is worth considering.
Western Australia 
Avoid: Developing suburbs on the outer northern and southern metropolitan fringes of Perth where there is currently an oversupply which is expected to continue for the next 12 to 18 months. Likewise the Perth unit market is looming for an oversupply for the next 12 months to two years. 
Recommend: Houses in a 10-20km radius of Perth with reasonable land holdings and rentable older houses. Likewise suburbs where there have been zoning changes and infrastructure spending can still provide opportunities for good buying. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property investor no-go warning: Avoid Brisbane CBD, the Valley, Docklands and Zetland: Rich Harvey

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The latest planning application for Glen Iris is adding weight to the suburb's credentials as it emerges as an apartment hotspot. Situated 10 kilometres from Melbourne's CBD, the suburb has seen an elevated amount of apartment-based activity of late, with developers keen to secure a foothold within the locale which is split between City of Stonnington and City of Boroondara.

Apartments.com.au is tracking 638 new apartments within Glen Iris spread over 13 separate developments. Small-scale numbers relative to inner city development, yet impressive when considering the suburb is both a youngish apartment market and heavily favoured by owner-occupiers.

City of Stonnington are currently advertising the suburb's largest intended development to date, located at <a href="/buildings/highpark-1559-1567-high-street-glen-iris">1559-1567 High Street</a>. The proposal which rises progressively to eight levels would hold 148 dwellings if approved. Southbank-based Gardenier Pty Ltd is the proponent with ROTHELOWMAN responsible for the design.

<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/image10_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative view from High Street and Brixton Rise. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="312" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image10_2.jpg?itok=09lRXRb0" title="Indicative view from High Street and Brixton Rise. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative view from High Street and Brixton Rise. Image courtesy ROTHELOWMAN</figcaption></figure>Clad predominantly in varying tones of glass, 1559-1567 High Street holds a mixture of one, two, two plus and three bedroom apartments. The development carries a nominal value of $36 million and would see 15 three bedroom dwellings included in addition to 6 two bedroom plus options, both of which point toward the development team's recognition of Glen Iris as a suburb capable of holding a greater number of higher-end dwellings.

Elsewhere and Glen Iris currently sees three apartment projects at construction. Gardiner Rise, <a href="/buildings/grace-1555-malvern-road-glen-iris">Grace</a> and <a href="/new-apartments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Vivid on Malvern</a> are all at basement stage with the latter the latest project for St Kilda Road-based AG Constructions; yet another of a new brigade of builders devoted solely to the delivery of apartment projects.

<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/image11_3.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gardiner Rise and Vivid on Malvern in progress"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="259" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image11_3.jpg?itok=Nr7fCmRS" title="Gardiner Rise and Vivid on Malvern in progress" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gardiner Rise and Vivid on Malvern in progress</figcaption></figure>Soon to join those at construction are Lennox Glen Iris, which was <a href="/news/samuel-property-and-the-new-residential-zones">featured recently</a>, and <a href="/buildings/trentwood-25-trent-street-glen-iris">Trentwood</a>, Kokoda Property Group's latest residential project. Featuring 92 apartments within a Hayball-designed building, Trentwood will feature Carr Design interiors within the development dominated by two and three bedroom dwellings which hold internal spaces of up to 123sqm.

Also at Registrations and Sales is <a href="/buildings/leopold-stonnington-18-leopold-street-glen-iris">Leopold</a> which presents as more typical Glen Iris apartment developments in that it is low-rise in nature and within a close distance to either of the suburbs two train stations: Gardiner or Glen Iris.

The balance of project within postcode 3146 are at planning, with three notable developments in waiting. Calabro Capital's <a href="/new-apartments/iris-residences-1581-malvern-road-glen-iris">1579-1581 Malvern Road</a> is a recent entrant into the Apartments.com.au project database as are <a href="/new-apartments/1729-1735-malvern-road-glen-iris">1729-1735 Malvern Road</a> and the Peddle Thorp-designed <a href="/new-apartments/1655-1659-malvern-road-glen-iris">1655-1659 Malvern Road</a>.

Sizeable apartment developments applications are also in progress for the following Glen Iris addresses (some of which have yet to enter the Apartments.com.au project database) include:

<ul>
<li>1687 Malvern Road</li>
	<li>7-11 Elm Road Glen Iris (developed by modular builder Modscape)</li>
	<li><a href="/new-apartments/1639-1645-malvern-road-glen-iris">1639-1645 Malvern Road</a></li>
	<li>1795 Malvern Road</li>
	<li>1693-1699 Malvern Road</li>
	<li>1542 High Street</li>
	<li>
<a href="/new-apartments/1655-1659-malvern-road-glen-iris">1655-1659 Malvern Road</a> (Notice of Decision stage)</li>
	<li>1789 and 1791-1793 Malvern Road</li>
</ul>
With Malvern Road and High Street a focal point of apartment development within the area, Glen Iris's forward apartment development pipeline is looking particularly strong. This coupled with the desirability of the suburb leads Apartments.com.au to ear tag Glen Iris as an apartment hotspot both now and into the medium term.

<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/image13_4.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A selection of active Glen Iris apartment projects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="336" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image13_4.jpg?itok=t89d-iOm" title="A selection of active Glen Iris apartment projects" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>A selection of active Glen Iris apartment projects</figcaption></figure>
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silvermb

Identifying the next apartment hotspot: Glen Iris

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Psst... Got a second? I’d like to let you know of an exciting property market location which is the second biggest regional city in its state, is the principle service centre for a region which is in close proximity to large and very valuable reserves of natural resources, it has critical deep sea port infrastructure in place, one of the highest rental yields in the country, its historical return on investment is close to double that of the capital city average, and a property entry price of $300,000. 
Every single word in the above opening paragraph is true, although – intentionally – the name of the location isn’t mentioned. If I said it was a bayside suburb in a capital city the odds are that this would instantly become Australia’s biggest hotspot. Now that I reveal that it is the South Australian regional city of Whyalla many people reading this will suddenly become uncomfortable.
I can think of no better example to illustrate how emotionally-based perceptions, as opposed to solid research and logic, get in the way of property investors standing to make the most of their hard-earned money.
From my desktop, I can hear people shouting: “But Simon, Whyalla is a mining town! Regional locations are high risk compared to capital cities.”
Whyalla is actually a steel manufacturing town (18% of jobs are in metal manufacturing). It services inland mines (lots of them). Whyalla is a seaport located on the east coast of the Eyre Peninsula. Tourism is a small secondary industry.
<img src="/images/2015/03/26/MedianValues_Capitals_5yrs-15yrs.jpg" alt="">
Mining giant, BHP established Whyalla in 1901 to facilitate the transport of iron ore from mines in the state’s north, via sea, to processing plants. A blast furnace was constructed in the 1940's and Whyalla's reputation as the 'steel city' grew.
Through the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s, Whyalla's population expanded rapidly and governments began planning for a 100,000 population. Shipbuilding had become the main industry until international competition forced its closure in 1978. The steel plant has evolved through peaks and troughs under BHP, then One Steel, and now Arrium. The one constant has been its status the biggest employer.
A mineral exploration boom unfolded throughout the last decade resulting in increased population. In 2000, an educated property investor would have paid a mere $80,500 for a house in Whyalla. An outer-suburbs capital city house back then would have cost $100,000 more than that. Over the next fifteen years Whyalla produced solid growth (an average of 9.5% per annum). The capital city average over the same fifteen year period was considerably less (7.3% per annum) and included three to four years of negative growth.
Do you want to re-evaluate that earlier comment about “risk”? Perhaps, you might be starting to see my point about “perception” and lost opportunity.
<img src="/images/2015/03/26/Whyalla_PropertyMarket.jpg" alt="">
The infrastructure in Whyalla is well established; as one should expect of a century old city with 22,000 people. University of SA has a campus in Whyalla, offering programs such as business, health, and community services. Daily flights to Adelaide are available with Regional Express; Qantaslink is also looking to service the region from 2015.
Three hours north of Whyalla is Olympic Dam. Opened in 1988, Olympic Dam holds some of the biggest reserves of copper, gold, uranium, and silver in the world. State and federal government approvals were granted to BHP for a $30 billion expansion in October 2011. In September 2012, BHP suspended the project, although it is widely expected that a scaled-down expansion will proceed at some point.
<img src="/images/2015/03/26/Whyalla.jpg" alt="">
Whyalla already has deep sea port infrastructure at Port Bonython which is very likely to come in to play when BHP eventually find the most viable development model. When it does, Whyalla’s property market will, yet again, perform much stronger than capital cities.
Whyalla’s property market is currently flat. Then again, so are most markets across Australia. An investor could buy a solid three-bedroom house in Whyalla today and get change from $300,000; rental yields are over 6%. Risk? I’d suggest there is considerably more risk investing in an inner-city apartment in <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2015-02_Propertyology_SydneyOutlook.pdf">Sydney</a> or <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/2015_01_Propertyology_MelbourneOutlook.pdf">Melbourne</a>.
But, then again, I guess that depends on whether one bases things on perception or solid research and logic!
Simon Pressley is managing director of Propertyology, a REIA Hall Of fame Inductee, property market analyst, accredited property investment adviser, and buyer’s agent. 
<a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/more-than-a-buyers-agent/" target="_blank">Propertyology</a> works exclusively with property investors to purchase properties in strategically chosen locations all over Australia.
Photo of Whyalla courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
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spressley-sBoeMhannA

The regional city that has outperformed all capital cities for 15 years: Simon Pressley

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New research from Onthehouse.com.au has forecast their selection of the top 10 investor suburbs set to deliver during 2015.
There are some surprises with coastal ugly ducklings. Nine were for houses, with Byron Bay the only one selected for possible strong growth in units.
Tweed Heads South was top of the list for houses., while Byron Bay units were expected to deliver a total return of 13% this year.
Nine out of the 10 top investment areas, concluded when considering both projected growth and rental yield, are located along the regional coast of New South Wales and Queensland, while the remaining suburb is located in Western Australia.
The below table lists the top 10 suburbs, in order. 
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2015/03/25/Top_10_Investments_2015_Table1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/03/25/Top_10_Investments_2015_Table1.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source:<a href="https://www.onthehouse.com.au/" target="_blank"> Onthehouse</a>
The median value in Stratton is more than $160,000 cheaper than the city area of Perth.
Queensland’s Allenstown was the most affordable on the list with a median home value of $267,500.
Surprise NSW South Coast entrants included Sussex Inlet and Mollymook Beach.
The relative affordability of quiet coastal suburbs makes them ideal locations for retirees or young families, Onthehouse.com.au analyst Eliza Owen suggested.
"A perfect example of this is Morisset, which is ideally located on the shore of Lake Macquarie as well as being a short drive from the beach - and during the last Census it was found that 39% of the suburb's population was aged 65 years or over," said Owen.
"Many young health professionals have also found the area to be extremely affordable and a good place to rent and save while they attain work experience in the health sector.
"Due to continued rising levels of unaffordability in major cities, regional areas have become more enticing for businesses, as well as home owners.
"Businesses have found it cheaper to relocate their manufacturing and processing outside of metro city areas, creating jobs in regional areas.
"This is again evidenced around Morisset, but is also a case for the outer Perth suburb of Stratton, which is located just 20 kilometres from the Perth CBD."
{mijopolls 102}
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