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.

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"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."

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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

Melbourne

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A development site in Melbourne’s inner suburb of Fitzroy has hit the market and is expected to attract strong interest from developers.
The listing of the 1,132 square metre site at 62 Rose Street follows the sale of a Webb Street property earlier this month for $6.6 million at Teska Carson auction.
The purchase of the latter property has plans for a high-end, million dollar plus, apartment project.  
According to Teska Carson’s Anthony Choi, who is marketing  Rose Street and Tom Maule who sold Webb Street with Matthew Feld, enquiry for sites in and around Fitzroy has been strong.
“Demand for these type of boutique apartment project sites has been extraordinary even given the strength of the apartment market in general over the last few years. I guess the difference here is the location in what has been one of Melbourne’s hippest suburbs over the last ten or 20 years,” Choi said.
The Rose Street property is zoned Mixed Use with frontages to Rose Street and Fitzroy Street. 
Three standalone warehouses, totalling 952 square metres, are currently leased on short to medium terms, returning $168,840 per annum.
The Rose Street property will be sold by expressions of interest closing September 20.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Fitzroy site with prospects for apartments listed 

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One of Melbourne’s leading antique dealers, McPhees, has decided to put its Chapel Street, Prahran shop under the hammer after 116 years of trading.
The auction will be on September 28.
The business, which will continue trading in another location, was established by George McPhee who moved the business to the present location in 1924. The business started just on High Street in 1901. 
The 200-202 Chapel Street property comprises a two level, 497 square metre, building in near original condition.
According to listing agents, Teska Carson’s Matthew Feld and Tom Maule, the property will attract strong interest at time when Prahran is undergoing a development phase that has seen the local population rise in line with Melbourne’s growth.  
According to great grandson Duncan McPhee, who now runs the business with his brother Sean, the fourth generation of McPhees to be involved in one of Australia’s oldest family businesses is looking forward to a new era for the business. 
“Much has changed in Chapel Street over the last 100 years. It has become a destination for cafes, restaurants, bars, and other entertainment venues, and now the family is seeking a more appropriate address, an address which we hope will be home to the business for many more years to come.”
“We have customers that have been with us for 30 or 40 years or more and we would like to continue our service to them and at the same time nourish the business in a new location,’’ McPhee said.
McPhees has a reputation for supplying high quality early furniture especially in the English taste of the Eighteenth century, into the Regency period and continuing through the reign of George IV. 
“This part of Chapel Street has an enviable aura and reputation driven by its eclectic mix of tenancies from cafes to restaurants to bars and entertainment venues, boutique fashion houses to the Chapel Street Bazaar, The Jam Factory and Prahran Market,” Feld said.
“The list goes on. If you get an opportunity to buy in this part of Chapel Street you take it.’’
Current improvements allow for a conversation into two separate tenancies by re-instating the central wall, added Maule. 
He said the Commercial 1 zoning allows for mixed use commercial centres for retail, office, business, entertainment and community uses, as well as residential uses. 
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Prahran's iconic antique dealer to sell its shop of 93 years 

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GUEST OBSERVER
To downsize or to not downsize?
That is the question many older Australians are asking themselves as they weigh up the benefits and disadvantages of each option. 
While downsizing offers more convenience, one major compromise is potentially moving away from friends in your neighbourhood whom you’ve known for years.
As of July next year, older Australians who are thinking of downsizing their family home into a smaller property may have a financial incentive to do so. They will now be able to invest up to $300,000 of the money made from the sale into their superannuation without being taxed. *Please seek independent professional advice when contemplating using this method.
A few years ago, Secret Agent published a ‘How To Downsize’ guide. In this report we will revisit the topic, this time focusing on the inner city suburbs and considerations that need to be made if you are looking to downsize into any of these areas.
CHANGES YOU’LL NEED TO ADAPT TO
As the term implies, downsizing means that getting used to a smaller space is an inevitable part of the equation. By moving into the inner city, you will also have to get used to new neighbours, new traffic patterns, new noises, more lights and new distances from old friends. Two of the greatest challenges downsizers will face is negotiating life in a smaller home, and detaching themselves emotionally from the place they are leaving.
Size
It’s not easy to find a home with enough space so you don’t feel cramped, yet small enough to qualify the move as a ‘downsize’. Going from an expansive four bedroom home to a two bedroom apartment that is barely the size of your old living room is not a good idea, and neither is moving into a double-storey terrace with a backyard. 
This includes an increase in three bedroom apartments on offer as well as whole-level apartments occupying the entire floor, giving residents greater privacy, space and a better outlook. Nowadays more developers are shifting towards targeting downsizers instead of investors, allowing older Australians to continually benefit from this trend over the next few years.
Emotional attachments
Many will find that the hardest part about downsizing is leaving behind the emotional connections made to the family home. Full of memories of special milestones, it can be very difficult to let go of not just the house itself but the neighbourhood too.
On the bright side, you can downsize into another area you feel somewhat at home in, such as a place you have fond memories of as a child or young adult. You may have stayed in university housing in Parkville, or worked during your early days in Richmond. It helps to have some history in the area in terms of replacing one emotional connection with another, however it doesn’t mean that there won’t be huge changes to get used to. As the inner city has transformed dramatically over the past decade and continues to do so, these areas may not be as you remembered them.
INNER CITY SUBURB GUIDE
There are many benefits of moving into the inner city that will help offset some of the more difficult transitions you need to make when downsizing. Secret Agent has put together a guide of the inner city suburbs to assist you in choosing a place that will suit your lifestyle needs.
Fitzroy North
Good access to parks and gardens, Scotchmer St / St Georges Rd amenities, plenty of smaller terraces, family-oriented neighbourhood, quiet and leafy.
Fitzroy
Brunswick St, Johnston St and Gertrude St amenities, close to Carlton Gardens, public transport easily accessible, variety of terraces, low-rise apartments and warehouses to choose from.
Carlton
Close proximity to the CBD and good access to parks, plenty of amenities on Lygon St and Swanston St, walk to Queen Victoria Market, multitude of public transport options. Only 
downside is that it gets quite noisy and busy, particularly around Melbourne University.
Carlton North &amp; Princes Hill
Rathdowne Village amenities, quiet, leafy and wide streets, family-oriented neighbourhood, mostly period terraces. Demographic includes academics and medical professionals. One drawback is the lack of train access, only accessible via tram.
East Melbourne
Exclusive blue chip neighbourhood, quiet, leafy, walking distance to Fitzroy Gardens and CBD. Variety of older style apartments, Art Deco units, Victorian terraces.
North Melbourne
Queensberry St, Errol St and Victoria St amenities, including Queen Victoria Market, walking distance to the CBD. Mostly quiet except near main roads.
Parkville
Adjacent to Princes Park and Royal Park, with period terraces, brick apartments and Art Deco units on offer. Demographic includes academics and medical professionals. Mostly quiet and leafy.
Brunswick &amp; Brunswick East
Gentrifying suburbs with large cultural and amenity hub along Sydney Road and Lygon St. Mix of older and younger population. Most apartments of varying quality located closer to main roads ie. Sydney Road and Lygon Street. Good access via train and tram. Busier and noisier near main roads.
Collingwood &amp; Abbotsford
Smith St and Johnston St amenities, convenient access to Yarra River parks on the east. Accessible via both train and tram. Mix of warehouses, terraces and apartments. Mix of younger and older population.
Albert Park &amp; Middle Park
Established, blue chip suburbs with quiet, wide and leafy streets, family and downsizer population. Mostly well-kept period terraces with a few brick and Art Deco apartments, little to no development in these areas. Walk to the beach or Albert Park. No train access.
Port Melbourne &amp; South Melbourne
Bay St and Clarendon St amenities, walking distance to the beach or several parks. No train access. Mix of newer apartments and townhouses, and older terraces. Generally established, more hustle and bustle than Albert Park and Middle Park and a transient population. 
Richmond
Multiple public transport options across the suburb. Variety of amenities along Victoria St, Bridge Rd and Swan St. Mix of younger and older population, diverse demographic overall. Plenty of apartments, townhouses, terraces and warehouses to choose from.
South Yarra &amp; Prahran
Established, leafy suburbs with a mix of younger and older population. Plenty of amenities along Chapel St, Toorak Rd, Commercial Rd and High St however also quite busy and noisy particularly at night.
OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER
Besides location, there are other major considerations you will need to make when deciding to downsize into the inner city:
<ul>
<li>Floor plan / layout of the home: With the right design, a small home can feel big; likewise, a big home can feel small if not designed well. Choose one that suits your daily habits at home. If you love to host dinners and have guests over often, you’d want a good kitchen with a spacious dining area. If you have a creative hobby, perhaps you’ll want to convert an extra bedroom into your own studio.</li>
<li>Less cars, less parking space: It may take some getting used to the tight street parking in suburbs such as Carlton and Fitzroy. You may also choose to give up one car (or altogether), as car sharing is popular in the inner city as is collaborative consumption of other items.</li>
<li>Noise: The inner city will always be noisier than a suburban neighbourhood. Consider proximity to trams, restaurants, main roads, and how loud they are when you are indoors with all windows shut. If you have chosen an apartment, how well the walls (and ceiling) have been insulated will also make a difference as to the extent you’ll hear your neighbours.</li>
<li>Light and darkness: A northern aspect provides desirable sunshine during the day! If your bedroom window faces a main road, the blinds or curtains may not be good enough to completely block out the light from a street lamp, which may disturb your sleep. Be careful of potential development sites which may block some of your natural light in the future.</li>
<li>Access: Think about the route from the closest grocer back to your apartment. Ideally, you don’t want to have to walk too far, and a lift may be necessary if you live higher than the first floor.</li>
<li>Storage: No matter how hard you try, a 100sqm apartment will never fit as much in as your double storey suburban mansion. Consider having less things but of a higher quality so they last longer.</li>
<li>Pets in apartments: Your pets may not be happy in an apartment if they are used to having lots of room to run around. Some apartments also have strict rules against having pets in the building.</li>
</ul>
 TRY BEFORE YOU BUY!
If you’ve set your mind on downsizing and you’re not sure how to prepare for the move, start by writing a list of ‘must-have’s that are non-negotiable when searching for a place. These will be the things that are most important to your future comfort. Don’t give in to these non-negotiables! Then write a list of things you will be willing to compromise on.
When you have found an inner city area you think you would like to move to, spend time in that suburb to get a proper feel for it before deciding to buy.
Stay in a hotel or Airbnb for 1-2 weeks to feel what it’s like to live through the weekdays, weekends, mornings and nights.
If you’re not in a rush, you may rent for a few months in that area to ensure that it meets your non-negotiables in the long term. It also gives you an opportunity to try out other property types, for example if you’ve never lived in an apartment, or warehouse conversion.
CONCLUSION
When entering a situation involving both gains and losses,
as humans we tend to focus on the latter. So when making a move into a new environment, like downsizing into the inner city, we need to minimise the impact of the negatives on our lifestyle. If noise is something that is very disruptive to you, then you’d be wise to avoid buying along a busy road, or near a shopping strip. If you don’t like being too close to your neighbours, then perhaps apartment living might not be for you.
With that said, inner city living has never been more popular. As the market continues to make it easier for older residents to settle comfortably near the city, it’s only a matter of time before downsizing becomes less of a difficult choice, and more of a natural transition. 
For more information, <a href="https://secretagent.com.au/">click here</a>.
</div>
</div>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne inner city downsizing guide: Secret Agent

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Scotch College, one of Melbourne’s top private schools, has bought a neighbouring house for almost $1 million above reserve.
The three-bedroom brick home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hawthorn-125924502" target="_blank">20 Hambledon Road</a> sold under the hammer for close to $3.2 million.
With this purchase, the school now owns all but 11 of 27 houses in Hawthorn’s Hambledon Road. It has spent about $25 million on property in adjacent Hambledon and Fordholm roads alone, Fairfax Media reported.
The exclusive boys' school — where high school tuition fees start at $26,000 — sits on 27 hectares.
The selling agent was Jason Brinkworth of Marshall White, but he did not comment on the sale. Industry sources say the private school was determined to scoop up the property.
The house, owned by the same family for 66 years, had expectations of $2.2 million-$2.3 million.
Scotch College has been buying neighbouring houses for decades. The private school bought two properties in Hambledon Road in 1997 for $567,500 and $460,000, respectively, Domain Group records show. 
It bought another house in Hambledon Road for $850,000 in 2001, before buying the one next door for $1.4 million two years later.
In 2007, the college splashed more than $5 million on three other properties in the street.
Prior to last month’s auction, the school’s most recent purchase was a $2 million house in 2015.
It also owns all of the properties along Morrison Street, which has formed part of the school campus for many years.
Houses in Morrison Street are used for bagpipe lessons, media studies, administration and archiving. 
In a statement, the school said it began buying neighbouring property after losing chunks of the school grounds to the state government for Citylink.
“On three occasions since the 1960s, the government has compulsorily acquired land from the school to construct the [south-eastern] freeway and enable its subsequent widening into the Citylink tollway,” a spokesperson said.
“Bound otherwise by the tollway, Yarra River and Glenferrie Road, the school has a long term strategy to re-establish grounds lost to the tollway by acquiring land to the north.”
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Scotch College expands portfolio, buys house $1 million above reserve 

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A leased shopfront in Melbourne’s far east has been snapped up by a local investor for $750,000, highlighting the affordability of the city’s far eastern suburbs.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-croydon-502300130" target="_blank">71 Wicklow Avenue</a> property in Croydon is leased to Linear Hair Salon for one year, with another one-year option to renew.
The retail asset was sold in an off-market deal through Colliers International’s Jackie Hanna.
She said the $8,333 rate per sqm for the 90 sqm corner shop was a “great result” for a freehold under a short-term lease.
“We received significant local enquiry for this asset,” she said.
“Investors saw the upside potential given the property’s proximity to the local shops and train station.”
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Shopfront in Melbourne’s far eastern Croydon suburb sells for $750,000

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Singaporean developer Tong Eng Group has paid $116.3 million for a St Kilda Road tower.
The building on 5 Queens Road, was built in 1989and features new end-of-trip facilities with 104 lockers and 56 bike racks; floor plates of 1,680sqm and 325 bays across two levels of basement car parking.
Located opposite Albert Park, the 11-storey tower has a net lettable area of 17,500sqm and tenants such as Unico Computer Systems, Beca and Shape.
CBRE’s Michael Andrews, Luke Etherington and Kiran Pillai – in conjunction with Colliers’ Leigh Melbourne and Nick Rathgeber – managed the sale campaign on behalf of Charter Hall.
Trent James, CHOT fund manager, said recent divestments, including Queens Road, provides an opportunity to divest non-core assets above book value, with capital to be redeployed into core CBD acquisitions.
“This transaction reconfirm the CHOT’s focus on being an active seller in order to enhance returns for our capital partners,” he said.
Some $9 million has been spent on upgrades since 2011 with the building now having the only 5 Star NABERS rating in the area.
CBRE’s Mr Andrews said the strong sale result, which reflected an initial yield of circa 5.6 percent, highlighted the strength of demand for quality assets in the precinct.
“Charter Hall has completed a significant capital works program and leasing project on the building in recent years, which has positioned the asset as best in class,” Mr Andrews said.
“This strategy underpinned strong interest from both offshore and local groups and ultimately delivered one of the sharpest ever sale results within the precinct.
Terence Teo, Director of Feature Queens Pty Ltd (a unit of the Tong Eng Group), said the building is at a fantastic location at the confluence of Queens Road, Kingsway and St Kilda Road, and offers unrivalled protected views over Albert Park and Port Philip Bay.
 
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Singaporean developer Tong Eng Group buys St Kilda Road tower

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A securely tenanted medical facility in Melbourne’s outer suburb of Frankston has sold for $3.1 million to a local developer.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-frankston-502150406" target="_blank">5 Hastings Road</a> was marketed by Colliers International’s Ben Baines and Adrian Rowse, who said they fielded more than 100 enquiries following  an expressions of interest campaign.
“The campaign generated in excess of 100 strong enquiries,” Baines said.
“We received 14 genuine expressions of interest before an eventual sale to a local developer, who may look to refurbish or redevelop for the tenant.”
The property is leased to Australian Clinical Labs on a five-year triple net lease, thus promising a steady income stream for the near future.
The Uniradiology Frankston site has an area of 1,821 sqm and generates a passing net income of $192,850 p.a.
Rowse added that property’s location opposite Frankston Hospital appealed to prospective buyers.
 
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Medical facility in Melbourne's Frankston changes hands for $3.1 million

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<h3 class="post-title entry-title"><a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2017/08/melbourne-land-sales-hit-fastest-pace"></a></h3>
<div id="post-body-3574513154739070757" class="post-body entry-content">The trend result for new motor vehicle sales rose to 101,083 in July, the highest on record.</div>
<div class="post-body entry-content"> </div>
<div class="post-body entry-content">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/17/B1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> <div class="separator"><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/2017/08/17/B1.jpg" alt=""></div>
 <div>The recent surge has largely been accounted for by Victoria, where new units sold are +4.4 per cent higher year-on-year in seasonally adjusted terms at 28,349.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Victoria is the home of arguably the most vibrant economy in the country right now: Greater Melbourne.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>South Australia has also been improving steadily, with seasonally adjusted new vehicle sales +8.1 per cent higher over the year at 6,269.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In annualised terms, New South Wales has racked up 397,652 unit sales, which is the highest figure ever recorded for any state. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/17/B2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
 <div class="separator"><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/2017/08/17/B2.jpg" alt=""></div>
 <div>Sports utilities continue to dominate the sector, and are all set to overtake passenger vehicles as the most popular choice over the months ahead, which has been an extraordinary progression. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/17/B4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
 <div class="separator"><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/2017/08/17/B4.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Meanwhile production continues to plummet as the domestic auto industry winds up, and the overwhelming bulk of new vehicles going forward will be imported. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/17/B3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
 <div class="separator"><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/2017/08/17/B3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>The wrap</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Overall, these were more strong numbers indeed for new vehicle sales, with the Victorian economy once again shining. This is leading in turn to a starburst of population growth and demand in Melbourne.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Oliver Hume reported that the average time on market for vacant land sales in Melbourne continued a precipitous drop from 200 days in Q4 2012 to a fresh all-time low of just 30 days in Q2 2017. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Blocks have never been snapped up at anything like this speed before across the history of the data series. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Demand has been strong locally, with anecdotally even some Sydneysiders now relocating to Melbourne for cheaper housing. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The median price of land in Metropolitan Melbourne increased by +2.3 per cent in the quarter to $268,000 according to Oliver Hume, with the average lot size declining.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Land prices per square metre increased by $14 to $654. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
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<h3 class="post-title entry-title"><a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2017/08/melbourne-land-sales-hit-fastest-pace"></a></h3>
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Melbourne land hits fastest sales pace on record: Pete Wargent

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An industrial site with development potential in Melbourne's inner-western suburb of Tottenham has sold for $6.5 million to an Asian investor.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-vic-tottenham-502305290" target="_blank">213 Sunshine Road</a> site has an area of 16,457 sqm.
The deal was brokered by Mark Talbot of Fitzroys on behalf of Myer Herszberg, the former chairman of InfoMedia.
An Asian investor and landbanker purchased the site, which covers 12 separate titles and has a 9,346 sqm of industrial buildings, on a 4.1% net yield. 
The sale reflected a land rate of $394 per sqm. 
The property is close to Tottenham station. 
Talbot said the site returns a current rental of $304,457 per annum and has the potential for an increase, and presented a variety of development opportunities. 
“The Tottenham and West Footscray area has seen enormous changes with many older industrial buildings making way for smaller modern office/warehouse development. A number of industrial areas have also been rezoned, making way for high density residential developments including townhouses and apartments,” he said. 
Fairfax Media added that a housing estate is also being built opposite 213 Sunshine Road.
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Industrial site in Melbourne's Tottenham sells to Asian investor for $6.5 million

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A tenanted showroom and warehouse facility in Melbourne’s Box Hill has been sold to a developer for $3.5 million in an off-market transaction. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/482a-station-st-box-hill-vic-3128" target="_blank">480-482A Station Street</a> site was held by a private vendor for more than 40 years.
With a land area of 1,020 sqm, the yield works out to be a little less than 3% yield. 
Cushman &amp; Wakefield’s Robert Colaneri and Andrew O’Connell brokered the deal on behalf of the vendor. 
The property comprises a single level showroom and warehouse facility.
It was sold with an existing long-term tenant in place, Abbeys Auctions. 
The site is close to Box Hill Train Station and Box Hill Shopping centre and within close proximity of Box Hill’s ‘Major Development Precinct’, a retail and commercial precinct that has experienced a substantial uplift in development activity, including the Whitehorse Towers and Sky One buildings currently under construction, according to Colliers.
The site is zoned industrial 3.
“Box Hill has emerged as one of Melbourne’s hottest development and investment markets and the price per square metre (approximately $3,500 per sqm), as well as yield secured for the Station Street property is amongst the highest of any Melbourne industrial transaction,”  said Colaneri.
“Investment into Box Hill has risen dramatically with a number of sites along Whitehorse Road and Prospect Street recently transacted.” 
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