Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Melbourne

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A Chinese investor has snapped up a Melbourne CBD property, best known as the home of the Melbourne Theosophical Society, for an undisclosed sum though the selling agents from Savills said the yield was below 1 percent.
The 124-130 Russell Street building was fully leased, with short-term tenancies in place. It was expected to fetch around $20 million when it was listed in June.
The Society held the building for 45 years. MTS paid $180,000 for the property in 1972.
The recent transaction was through Nick Peden, Clinton Baxter and Benson Zhou of Savills. The transaction manager was David O’Callaghan of O’Callaghan Commercial. 
Peden said the property attracted strong investor and developer demand, with buyers flying in from interstate, China and South-East Asia to view the property. 
“Many local buyers were extremely keen to purchase this property, but they simply couldn’t match the fire-power of cashed-up private investors from Asia with the leading contenders in this instance being from Malaysia and China,” he said.
“We received intense interest in this asset from many potential buyers with the key attractions being the property’s super-prime position directly opposite the QT Hotel, its wide retail exposure, proximity to Melbourne’s retail core, and various opportunities to add-value once MTS relocates from the premises,” he said.
The property was sold following an expressions of interest campaign. 
Peden added that strategic east-end CBD properties are well positioned to profit from the apartment and population boom in central Melbourne, which will also lead to greater retail spending throughout the city in coming years.
The 1,654 square metre, five level, retail and office building sits on a 519 sqm site, zoned Capital City, with frontages to Russell Street and Melbourne Place.
It made a passing net income of nearly $159,566 per annum.
Baxter said pent-up demand for CBD properties in the $10-$30 million price bracket is quite pronounced with a tsunami of capital from Asia endeavouring to secure prime properties throughout the Melbourne commercial market.
 
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Melbourne Theosophical Society building bought by Chinese investor: Savills

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Lendlease has completed the first stage of restoration works on the heritage-listed Flinders Street wall, located within the Melbourne Quarter site.
The works are designed to acknowledge the presence of the wall and reposition it in a new, urban context for Melbourne’s future generations to appreciate, according to Lendlease.
Built in 1890 by Victorian Railways, the 174 metre bluestone heritage-listed wall was where workers would congregate before the Second World War in the hope of receiving a day’s work at the docks. 
The restoration is being carried out as construction works begin on the 2.5 hectare Melbourne Quarter neighbourhood.
The Melbourne Quarter precinct will offer nearly 130,000 sqm of agile and flexible office space for more than 12,000 employees, Lendlease said.
Last year, Lendlease secured approval from Heritage Victoria to carry out restoration works to the wall to secure and preserve its long term future.
Lendlease’s managing director for Urban Regeneration, Mark Menhinnitt, said Lendlease was proud to be preserving an important part of Melbourne’s past.
“The retaining wall will be restored and seamlessly integrated into Melbourne Quarter as part of a new grand porte cochere arrival experience on Flinders Street.
“This hotel-style entrance will give apartments their own distinct identity and offer residents concierge services.
The sites is closely linked with the foundation of Melbourne, with the heritage wall marking the original location of Batman’s Hill where city founder John Batman built his home in 1835.
With designs informed by heritage experts Lovell Chen, the precinct’s residential architects Fender Katsalidis and landscape architects Aspect Oculus, the wall is an important piece of Melbourne’s history, built to retain Batman’s Hill as Flinders Street was extended to create access from the CBD to the newly created Victoria Dock, Lendlease said.
"The site is also linked to the city’s former railyards and structures,” added Menhinnitt.
It will also form part of a new public pedestrian connection from Melbourne Quarter to the CBD’s Spencer Street.
New openings through the wall will give the public access to the precinct’s new plaza and retail laneway, which will connect Collins and Flinders Street.
Bluestone components will become publicly visible as part of these works for the first time, he said.
Earlier this year, Lendlease's second commercial tower at the Melbourne Quarter development was given the green light by Planning Minister Richard Wynne.
 
 
 
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Lendlease restores first stage of historic wall on Flinders Street

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The longtime owner of the house from The Castle says she’ll take what she can at tomorrow's auction of the humble Melbourne weatherboard that sits adjacent to the Essendon airport.
It is famous for its setting as Darryl Kerrigan’s “castle” in the iconic 1997 film.
The house at 3 Dagonet Stret, Strathmore is up for grabs, but only the iconic house, not the land.
Rebecca Towns and Noel Kenny from the Brad Teal agency are expecting it to fetch anywhere between $1000 and $10,000 as the buyer will then need to spend another $45,000 to $50,000 on getting it relocated.
They are marketing the house as “the ultimate piece of movie memorabilia."
Prior plans by NSW entrepreneurs to relocate it failed to proceed.
Seller Vicky Cosentino wants to build a townhouse now that the Moonee Valley council voted not to pursue permanent heritage protection for the home.
Interest has come from councils seeking to add a tourist attraction in their district and investors looking to use it as an Airbnb.
A Sydney property investor Richard Moseley owned the other house, the Bonnie Doon holiday fibro near Lake Eildon, selling the shack for $200,000, after nine year ownership having paid $169,950 in 2006.
This article first appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Councils consider The Castle for tourist attraction

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The North West region of Melbourne had the highest weekend auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 71 auctions in the North West 90.1% resulted in a successful outcome.
This is followed by the Inner region with 88.7% and the Outer East with 87%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-24%20at%2010.31.27%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/07/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-24%20at%2010.31.27%20am.jpg" alt="">
The South East region had the lowest clearance rate with only 70.5% successfully cleared.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-keilor+east-125759702" target="_blank">4 Steele Creek Drive</a>, Keilor East (above) was sold over the weekend for $1.273 million.
A three bedroom townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-townhouse-vic-keilor+east-125757058" target="_blank">28 Nyah Street</a>, Keilor East (below) was sold for $777,000.
<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/2017/07/24/28%20Nyah%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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North West Melbourne region scores 90% auction clearance rate: CoreLogic

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A corner development site in Melbourne’s eastern suburb of Camberwell has sold for $9,188,888 through Savills.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-camberwell-502436274" target="_blank">553-555 Burke Road</a> is within the prestigious Anderson Hill residential precinct. 
It is being offered with a recently approved permit for a mixed-use project comprising 29 luxury apartments and four ground-level shops.
The site sits in an elevated position with potential for views, says the description. 
The 1,427 sqm site was offered through expressions of interest.
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It is close to Stockland Tooronga Shopping Centre and close to public transport.
The selling agents were Julian Heatherich, Jesse Radisich and Benson Zhou of Savills.
The sale price ending in '888' is considered lucky in many Asian cultures, particularly China. The number eight, and long numbers with lots of eights in them, along with number combinations that form eight (e.g. 71, where 7 + 1 = 8), are extremely lucky. 
 
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Melbourne's 'astounding' property price growth continues

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Melbourne’s housing market is more resilient to a slowdown compared to Sydney, according to CoreLogic’s latest update report.
The property data firm says that price growth conditions are starting to ease.
For more information see the video below:
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Melbourne housing update: Tim Lawless sees price growth conditions ease

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The middle to outer eastern Melbourne suburbs are becoming unaffordable, according to Herron Todd White’s latest July report.
The property data firm says that there are some areas where $500,000 can get you a two bedroom apartment or unit.
“Within the middle to outer eastern suburbs, $500,000 will not enable purchase of a dwelling, however there are some areas where 2-bedroom units or apartments are affordable.
“In Boronia the median unit sale price in March 2017 was $496,944 (RP Data) which is expected to achieve a rental return of $333 per week reflecting a yield of approximately 3.48%.
“Similarly, the median unit sale price in Bayswater in March 2017 was $467,000 (RP Data) which is expected to achieve a rental return of $330 per week reflecting a yield of approximately 3.67%.
“If buyers desire to be closer to the Melbourne CBD, apartments provide a more affordable option in suburbs such as Mitcham, Forest Hill and Blackburn.
“For example, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-blackburn-124547918">410/394-398 Middleborough Road</a>, Blackburn sold on 27 April 2017 for $492,000.
“It last sold in 2013 for $528,000.
“The apartment comprises 2-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms and two basement car parking spaces.
“If the market keeps firming, soon buyers with a budget of $500,000 might be priced out of the 2-bedroom unit or apartment market, however 1-bedroom apartments would still provide an alternative.
“Last year, 2-bedroom dwellings were under $500,000 in Boronia and Mooroolbark, however currently the median price for a 2-bedroom house in Boronia is $572,750 (realestate.com) and $526,000 in Mooroolbark (realestate.com), so buyers with a budget of $500,000 can no longer afford these properties.
“A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mooroolbark-125860598">17 Old Kent Street</a>, Mooroolbark (below) has been listed for between $550,000 to $590,000.
“Built in 1975 it last sold in 2015 for $400,000, in 2009 for $313,000, 2007 for $334,000 and in 2002 for $229,000,” the report stated.
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Middle to outer east Melbourne becoming unaffordable for sub-$500,000: HTW

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A strata office property in inner Melbourne’s Cremorne (Richmond) has changed hands for the second time in the past eight months, this time for $3.75 million to an owner-occupier.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-richmond-502062242" target="_blank">159-161 Cremorne Street</a> property previously sold in November 2016 for $3.15 million and the transaction underlines the strength of the commercial property market in the area.
Teska Carson’s Tom Maule, who brokered the off-market deal with Matthew Feld and Michael Taylor, said the $600,000 or nearly 20 per cent rise in value in the short period reflected the strong demand for city fringe locations.
“The demand for strata office has been very strong recently and this has been underlined by a sale at a very good $5,357 a square metre,” said Maule.
“The buyer was looking for a property which provided modern accommodation, exposure, and an inner city location which offered immediate access to all essential amenities, including public transport and quick access to arterial links.
The 704 sqm ground floor property forms part of the Deal Corporation-developed ERA building, which comprises three levels of office space, 155 residential units, a café, and basement car spaces.
The property sold with vacant possession. 
Maule said the estimated fully-leased income was around $290,000 per annum.
Feld added that the Cremorne/Richmond market was very popular with local and off-shore buyers because it was close to the CBD.
The vendor was a Melbourne-based private investor.
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Richmond office property sells for $3.75 million, gains 20 percent in 8 months

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A laneway retail asset in Melbourne’s CBD has been snapped up by a local investor for $2.875 million in an off-market transaction.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-melbourne-502464730" target="_blank">165 Flinders Lane</a> property is a two-storey shopfront on the corner of iconic laneway Hosier Lane.
The deal was brokered by Colliers International’s Oliver Hay, Daniel Wolman and David Sia.
The property transacted with vacant possession but represents a market yield of about 3.5 per cent and a price per square metre of more than $36,000 per sqm, according to the agents.
“165 Flinders Lane embodies the ongoing trend of investors and tenants tweaking their portfolio strategies to incorporate laneways due to their character and point of difference,” Hay said.
He cited another ground-floor retail shop a stone’s throw away at 118 Russell Street that recently sold under the hammer for $1.75 million, representing a record $87,500 per sqm.
The sale price of 165 Flinders Lane reflected the growing appetite for quirky and unconventional retail assets in Melbourne’s CBD, they added.
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