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

<html><body>
The North West region of Melbourne had the highest weekend auction clearance success rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 80 auctions in the North West, 86.3% resulted in a success.
This was followed by the West with 86.2% and the North East and Outer East with 83.3%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-03%20at%209.59.09%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/2017/04/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-03%20at%209.59.09%20am.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-keilor+east-124896870" target="_blank">3 Ash Grove</a>, Keilor East (above) was sold for $950,000.
Similarly a five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-sydenham-124896638" target="_blank">14 Lorinda Close</a>, Sydenham (below) was sold for $593,000.
<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/2017/04/03/14%20Lorinda%20Close.jpg" alt="">
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Melbourne's North West region has highest weekend auction clearance rate: CoreLogic

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Malvern’s iconic Angel Tavern, together with eight adjoining retail and commercial properties, has been listed for sale with price expectations of more than $45 million. 
The properties are for sale via an international expressions of interest closing May 11.
The tavern is located on the corner of Glenferrie Road and Dandenong Road, Malvern, close to Malvern train station. It has a gaming licence and a drive-through bottleshop.
The total underlying land area is about 4,720 sqm. 
The listing agents are Colliers International’s Matt Stagg and Jeremy Gruzewski, and Gross Waddell’s Jonathan McCormack and Andrew Waddell.
“Holdings of this scale in prime eastern-suburb locations are scarce, especially directly adjoining a major train station,” Stagg said. “It provides the opportunity to secure an Urban Renewal Precinct and transportation hub in a bluechip suburb.”
The offering comes at a time when the Victoria government is encouraging strategic development of Urban Renewal Precincts and Metropolitan Activity Centres throughout metropolitan Melbourne to accommodate the city’s growing population, which is anticipated to reach eight million people by 2050.
The government initiative includes increasing the supply of affordable housing around activity centres that provide residents easy access to jobs, retail, education and healthcare services. 
Building near public transport networks that link with the $10 billion Melbourne Metro Rail Project is also vital in order to reduce traffic congestion and minimise Melbourne’s environmental footprint, according to a media release.
Stagg said there was excellent potential to activate the streetscape and create a  safe pedestrian thoroughfare linking Dandenong and Glenferrie roads with Malvern station.  
The Angel Tavern Urban Renewal Precinct has flexible zoning and valuable air-rights,  that allow for a variety of mixed uses, such as residential apartments, commercial, hotel and student accommodation (subject to town planning approval).
“Malvern is one of Melbourne’s most exclusive suburbs with a median house price of $2,300,000,” McCormack said. 
“However, there is a dramatic shortage of premium owner-occupier apartments and townhouses for affluent down-sizers who wish to continue living in Malvern once they have sold the family home.” 
He said projects such as Lend Lease’s successful Toorak Park at 590 Orrong Road in Armadale, which directly adjoins Toorak station, was an indication of the possibilities in store for the Angel Tavern and the block of properties on sale. 
The Angel Tavern plus the eight properties generate a solid holding income, said the listing agents. Vacant possession is readily available via aligned lease expiries and termination clauses.  
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Angel Tavern and eight neighbourhood properties in Melbourne listed for $45 million

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Melbourne is the second highest expensive place to purchase a private treaty property, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that the average house in Melbourne costs around $700,000 while a unit costs around $520,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/20/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-20%20at%201.05.04%20pm.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/2017/03/20/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-20%20at%201.05.04%20pm.jpg" alt="">
This is in contrast to Sydney, which is the most expensive with $940,000 for houses and $740,000 for units.
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-kensington-123695926" target="_blank">22 The Crescent</a>, Kensington (above) has been sold for $725,000.
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-collingwood-120737429" target="_blank">56 Palmer Street</a>, Collingwood (below) has been sold for $715,000.
<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/2017/03/31/56%20Palmer%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Melbourne sits second most expensive place to purchase a property: CoreLogic

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Most Melbourne apartments are failing to meet minimum design requirements, according to Secret Agent’s latest bulletin.
The website recently released its findings on the state of recently built apartments in comparison to the Better Apartments Design Standards.
"What we found only confirmed our intuitive assumptions of inner Melbourne’s apartments: they’re generally hard to live in.
"While our full report dove into detail about each standard, this bulletin sums up the results of the overall study to shed light on the bigger picture, see the table below.
"We sampled 3000 apartments built in the last 6 years across 21 suburbs in Melbourne,” the report stated.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-16%20at%203.39.53%20pm.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/2017/03/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-16%20at%203.39.53%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Overall, 99.7 percent (2,991 apartments) failed to meet all the minimum requirements.
Only 9 apartments passed the seven standards we assessed (main bedroom dimensions, smallest bedroom dimensions, living room dimensions, private open space, windows, room depth, storage).
Out of these, 4 were 1 bedroom units, and 5 had 2 bedrooms.
<ul>
<li>94.2 percent (2,826 apartments) had balconies that were too small, or had none at all.</li>
<li>92.3 percent (2,770 apartments) were too small in terms of both bedrooms and living rooms, failing to meet all minimum dimensions.</li>
<li>84 percent (2,520 apartments) had either bathrooms or corridors that were too small. These failed accessibility standards.</li>
<li>70 percent (2,100 apartments) were not well-ventilated. Most of these only had windows on one side of the apartment, with the opposite wall facing the internal corridors.</li>
<li>52 percent (1,560 apartments) did not provide adequate sunlight to bedrooms. More than half of our sample either had no windows to their bedrooms, or had ‘snorkel’ windows that were deeper than allowed.</li>
<li>15.6 percent (468 apartments) were too deep, reducing natural light in parts of the living and dining areas.</li>
</ul>
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Melbourne apartments failing minimum design requirements

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Roughly half of the properties in the latest release at the Cedar Woods development in Jackson Green, Clayton South, were sold to first home buyers and young couples.
The latest release of Jackson Green’s town homes, features a selection of 23 architecturally designed three and four bedroom homes.
Patrick Archer, state manager, Cedar Woods, said town homes are a great option for first home buyers as they are affordable, low maintenance and provide excellent investment opportunities for young buyers. 
“Government grants and stamp duty exemptions make buying off the plan desirable for first homebuyers as the total capital outlay is greatly reduced,” he said.
Emily Vuong, recently purchased a three bedroom town home in the recent Grove release at Jackson Green.
She said she was only able to purchase the town home after teaming up with her boyfriend and parents.
“I would never have been able to purchase a property myself," she said.
“From my parents’ assistance I was able to get a foot up in the property market much earlier than most friends, purchasing off the plan allows me to save up a larger deposit before settling, reducing my overall mortgage.
“The co-buying approach is a common topic of discussion at social gatherings, with friends investigating possible partnerships to enter the market sooner rather than later."
To find out more information on the Jackson Green community visit <a href="https://www.jacksongreen.com.au" target="_blank">www.jacksongreen.com.au</a>
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Co-buying a viable option for first home buyers

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Melbourne’s Little Lonsdale Street has set a cracking pace for the CBD’s 2017 investment statistics, with two key sales and a major listing.
563-567 Little Lonsdale Street (below) recently sold at auction for $6.63million ($19,776 per sqm) which was quickly followed by 361-365 Little Lonsdale Street (above), which sold off-market.
Colliers International’s David Sia, Oliver Hay and Daniel Wolman brokered the deal for 361-365 Little Lonsdale at $11.125million, a land rate of $18,480 per sqm, on behalf of a Hong Kong vendor.
David Sia said a private Malaysian investor purchased the leased property at a yield of 1.6 percent.
“The sale was indicaticative of long-term holders seizing the premium values achievable in the current commercial climate,” he said.
Both 563-567 and 361-365 Little Lonsdale are zoned Capital City 1 and have substantial development upside, Sia said.
Colliers International listed 102 Little Lonsdale earlier this month, a history-rich 1894 property (below) with boutique office potential.
<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/2017/03/29/102%20Little%20Lonsdale%20Street%20Melbourne.jpg" alt="">
“This iconic residence is a premium chance to secure a truly one-of-a-kind CBD asset,” Mr Hay said.
“Each sale is indicative of a bullish market, confident in the consistent value-drivers of underlying CBD real estate,” he said.
102 Little Lonsdale Street will go to auction on April 19 at 1pm on site.
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Little Lonsdale off to big start

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The Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne has blocked a 16-storey $350 million apartment development in Fitzroy North proposed by BRW Rich Lister Tim Gurner.
It came ahead of Gurner reportedly thinking of lodging an amended 12-storey proposal for the 8500-square-metre former Gasworks site on Queens Parade.  
Gurner, who had previously threatened to pull out of Melbourne’s inner-city development market, now says he's preparing to fight this planning decision.
The Australian newspaper revealed recently that Gurner has been considering concentrating on the Western Australian residential market.
Gurner has faced stiff resistance from the City of Yarra’s Greens-dominated council and North Fitzroy residents.
The council asked Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne to intervene and force Gurner to cap his development at six storeys, while residents have called to have a four-level limit for all new buildings in the City of Yarra.
Gurner had previously said he would stop investing in the inner-city areas if the interim planning rules were enforced.
“We have a large number of sites within the City of Yarra currently and if these mandatory height controls are enacted not one of those sites would be or could be feasible to develop,” he told The Australian.
Mr Gurner said the costs to decontaminate some development sites were so large that higher density development was required to cover costs.
“If these changes are to be mandated, the site values will become absolutely worthless overnight,” he said earlier this year.
Gurner paid $40 million for the site last year and had initially proposed a cascading 16-storey development with over 470 apartments. 
This was rejected by the City of Yarra who referred the matter to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) in December with a hearing due to commence next week, with Gurner considering amendments with 135 fewer apartments and a height reduction to 37 metres from 53.7 metres.
The eleventh hour decision by Wynne to place an interim mandatory height control of a maximum of 10 storeys (30 metres) over the site means VCAT cannot grant a permit for any development that is higher. 
The Australian Financial Review advised today that "an incensed Mr Gurner" had spent $500,000 preparing for next week's VCAT hearing, and lashed out at the decision calling it a "joke" and said Mr Wynne had only intervened for "political reasons".
"The City of Yarra is the Planning Minister's own seat and it is no secret that he is right on the edge of holding power. He has clearly made a decision from a political perspective to try to win votes with no regard to fair and due process or strategic planning," Mr Gurner told The Australian Financial Review.
Despite the setback and his prior threats, he said he was more motivated than ever to ensure the project gets built.
Wynne holds the state seat of Richmond and will battle the Greens to retain the seat at next year's state elections.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Wynne imposes height restrictions on Gurner who feared "worthless overnight" intervention

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A fully-functioning, owner-operated hotel in the western sector of Melbourne’s CBD has been listed for sale, a welcome move in a market desperate for hotel properties as the city’s hotel occupancy rates hits all-time highs, according to Savills.
Flagstaff City Inn Hotel at 45 Dudley Street is on the market with expectations of more than $18 million. 
The property is being sold on a ‘walk-in, walk-out’ basis with expressions of interest closing April 11.
The hotel makes an income of nearly $1.3 million per annum, and presents the new owner as either a running lucrative hotel business or one with redevelopment play, according to Savills agents Clinton Baxter, Benson Zhou and Jesse Radisich, who are marketing the property.
The two-level hotel contains 42 hotel suites, a restaurant and conference facilities. It occupies 1,304 sqm and is a mixed-use zone.
Located a short walk from Flagstaff Gardens, the property has strong redevelopment potential, judging from the success of a 38-level tower development next door.
"This property has extraordinary potential as an already strongly trading going concern in a hotel market which is in the midst of a severe shortage of stock and a consequent spike in occupancy and room rates,” said Baxter.
"The property‘s potential for redevelopment is perhaps even more exciting given the zoning and the resounding success of other development ventures in this precinct.’’
The record tourism driven hotel sector has seen occupancy rates of near 90 per cent in Melbourne and, with forecasts of further growth in tourism, any investment opportunities which come to the market are much sought after, according to Savills.
<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/2017/03/21/44-55%20Dudley%20St%20aerial.jpg" alt="">
Zhou said the hotel’s close proximity to Melbourne University and Australia’s largest medical precinct, RMIT and the new Halleybury College Campus, would continue to provide a strong catchment for the hotel and likely underpin the viability of any future use, particularly residential use, of the property.
Future development for the site could include high density residential and retail, commercial, student accommodation and hotel uses, added Radisich.
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Melbourne's Flagstaff City Inn expected to fetch upwards of $18 million: Savills

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Sales in Melbourne's prestige property market are strong with 134 prestige property auctions reported in Melbourne last week according to Domain's Andrew Wilson.
He said Melbourne reported another strong prestige auction clearance rate of 79.9 percent last week.
"Although well below the previous week’s result of 88.2 percent from low holiday listings was well ahead of the 73.7 percent recorded over the same week last year.
"This week’s clearance rate is the highest non-holiday result of the year so far and the fourth result above 79.0 percent recorded over the past 5 weeks.
"Melbourne’s prestige home auction market accounted for 15.9 percent of total auction activity reported last week which was higher than the 9.0 percent recorded the previous week but lower than the 19.3 percent recorded over the same week last year.
"The Melbourne prestige auction market median sale price was down over the week, falling to $2,150,000 compared to the $2,315,000 recorded over the previous week.
"The median auction price however was 21.6 percent higher than the $1,767,500 reported over the same week last year.
"The top performing Melbourne prestige auction market suburbs by sales volume over the past four weeks with 100 percent clearance rates have been Caulfield North with a median at $2,100,000 followed by McKinnon $1,852,500, Deepdene  $3,662,500, Middle Park $1,920,000 and Eaglemont with a median auction price of $4,575,000."
Property Observer found a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-caulfield+north-124688318" target="_blank">123 Kambrook Road Caulfield North</a> (above) which sold recently for $2.1 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.30.02%20AM.png" alt="">
 
A five bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mckinnon-124815050" target="_blank">9 Clee Street McKinnon</a>, (above) sold for $1,625,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.32.15%20AM.png" alt="">
 
A three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-middle+park-124043770" target="_blank">198 Page Street Middle Park</a> (above), was sold for $2,350,000.
<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/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.37.10%20am.jpg" alt="">
The four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-deepdene-124092510" target="_blank">1 Abercrombie Street Deepdene</a> (above), sold for $2,230,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.57.00%20AM.png" alt="">
 
The two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-eaglemont-124765334" target="_blank">24 Brooke Street Eaglemont </a>(above) recently sold for $2,850,000.
 
 
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Melbourne's prestige suburbs netting 100 percent clearance rates

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Melbourne is set to hold the biggest auction weekend so far this year with more than 1,500 homes slated for auction, according to the REIV.
The REIV state 1,420 homes across 341 suburbs going to auction on Saturday. 
Joseph Walton, REIV president, said the 2017 auction market is one of the strongest in recent years with volumes up 13 percent on the same period last year. 
“Multiple auction records fell in February when more than 3,200 homes went to auction and close to 2,570 sold under the hammer,” he said.
“High auction volumes have continued throughout March with the current clearance rate of 79 percent signalling ongoing buyer and vendor confidence.
"The solid start to the year followed the strongest December in the state’s history – in terms of both auction volumes and sales. 
“The 2016 auction market remained buoyant right up until Christmas eve with low interest rates and high clearance rates encouraging more vendors to sell their homes well after the traditional spring selling season."
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.00.33%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/24/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-24%20at%2011.00.33%20AM.png" alt="" width="486" height="416">
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