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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Newcastle

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The latest HTW report notes that Newcastle residential yields are in the 3.5% to 4.5% range - which they describe as exceedingly low.
The Herron Todd White report suggested investors were in such instances having an over-reliance on capital growth to keep their investment equation in balance.
"This is also likely to mean that unless rental rates start increasing again, values may have to correct themselves," it tipped.
The valuation firm Herron Todd White noted the recent rate rises by the banks did not come without warning.
"APRA has been making noises about the capital raising of lenders for some time" the HTW November report states.
"The general consensus appears to be that several markets are overheated and a correction could be a major economic issue for Australia.
"The recent move to increase the interest rate for investors has had the effect of subduing the ardour from some investors to portfolio build, likely the prime goal of the rise.
"While the actual increase itself is minor, the psychological effect is something more substantial.
"We have had a long sustained period of interest rate decreases."
The HTW report highlights that the last increase by the RBA dates back to November 2010 and since that time investors have seen capital values rise, rental rates rise and portfolio values increase with little to no effort.
"To suddenly see an interest rate increase is a fundamental shift in mindset that may rock a few and place on the back foot those investors who have leveraged their portfolios too high."
The report goes on to suggest that discussions with agents indicate that investor enquiry in the Hunter is waning slowly.
"Previously agents could sell investment stock to a list on a database without the irritating hard work that open homes and general listing duties generally require.
"Instead of setting a price on the off chance that someone takes the hook, prices now require a little bit of prep work prior to unleashing them on the market.
"One might say that purchasers are at that point where they are exercising a small, but increasing amount of power to be choosy. Are the days of the seller’s market over?
"We aren’t that keen to declare that statement fact yet, but fledgling signs are there, as if a tiny seedling is emerging in the first few days of spring from the damp, steaming ground.
"What could stop it? Why, your retired dad doing you a favour and attacking your weeds with Roundup TM of course.
"Nothing like dad maintaining a garden.
"Rental rates in the Hunter region have been stagnant for a period of time now, unless you are in an area impacted by mines where the rates have been falling for a number of years now", says the HTW November review.
"Rental rates are one side of the yield/value/income triangle."
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Newcastle property investors having over-reliance on capital growth: HTW

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The Newcastle housing market has been described as peaking by Herron Todd White in its lastest property clock.
He are three samples. 
1. <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/5-58a-smith-street-charlestown/Property-Details-sold-residential-9288174" target="_blank">5/58a Smith Street, CHARLESTOWN 2290</a> (above)
Sold for $272,000 in September.
The 968 sqm unit was sold for $272,000 after $260,000 hopes from selling agent Rodney Goodwin of PRD Nationwide.
The one bedroom, one bathroom property was last traded in 2012, selling for $230,000.
<img src="/images/2015/11/5/new2.jpg" alt="" width="530" height="353">
2. <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/84-robert-street-wickham/Property-Details-sold-residential-9051904" target="_blank">84 Robert Street, WICKHAM 2293</a> (above)
Sold for $615,000 in July.
The property was listed with a guide price of $575,000. 
The residence was lasted traded in 2001 for $191,000.
The property was put up for rent in early in 2011 at $400 per week and increased to $425 per week when marketed for rent in late 2013.
<img src="/images/2015/11/5/cooks.jpg" alt="" width="522" height="348">
3. <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/57-laman-street-cooks-hill/Property-Details-sold-residential-8651326" target="_blank">57 Laman Street, COOKS HILL 2300</a>
Sold for $620,000 in May. 
The renovated property was purchased for $310,000 in 2008 so has doubled in value over seven years.
The two bedroom, two bathroom home was listed with a price guide of over $575,000.
Newcastle houses are at the peak of the market, according to Herron Todd White's <a href="/news/sydney-and-melbourne-houses-at-peak-pricing-in-november-htw-property-clock">latest property clock</a>.
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Three signs the Newcastle housing market is hot

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The latest research from Newcastle Cityscope shows that commercial property sales have decreased in the three months to June 2015.
The most recent quarter had 25 sales at a total value of $22.2 million, as compared to 26 sales totalling $38 million in the three months to March 2015, though it is an increase from the 13 sales totalling $21.8 million for the quarter to December 2014.
This latest data brings the total sales value in Newcastle Cityscope to $142 million for the year, a decrease from the $151.3 million recorded the same time last year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the last eight updates of Newcastle Cityscope.
<a href="/images/2015/06/17/700_newcastle.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/14.3.224.2/scripts/premium/redir.aspx?SURL=-k3jv6bUmFJ4Jj4DEQXoOPvso3n6aIlUWa2vPi1XVxNaiqcAvXbSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AYgBsAG8AZwAuAGMAbwByAGUAbABvAGcAaQBjAC4AYwBvAG0ALgBhAHUALwB3AHAALQBjAG8AbgB0AGUAbgB0AC8AdQBwAGwAbwBhAGQAcwAvADIAMAAxADUALwAwADYALwBQAHUAbABzAGUALQBOAEMAUwBhAGwAZQBzAEcAcgBpAGQALgBnAGkAZgA.&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fblog.corelogic.com.au%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2015%2f06%2fPulse-NCSalesGrid.gif" target="_blank" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4923]"><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-4924" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Pulse-NCSalesGrid-580x309.gif" alt="Newcastle Cityscope Quarterly Sales" width="580" height="309"></a>
Notable sales in the June 2015 update of Newcastle Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>464-470 King Street , Newcastle West, a two-storey office building and an adjoining single-storey brick commercial building with a net lettable area 3,626 sqm mas bought for $3.85 million.</li>
<li>48-50 Hunter Street, Newcastle, a five-storey rendered brick building commercial with classical facade detail, built circa 1926 was bought for $3.745 million.</li>
</ul>
The most notable property for sale in Newcastle Cityscope in the June 2015 update is:
<ul>
<li>11 Argyle Street, Newcastle, a six-storey building with 342 cars with two levels of office space and a total net lettable area 5,002 sqm is for sale by expression of interest closing 18 June 2015 through Knight Frank and CBRE.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities listed in the June 2015 update of Newcastle Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>150-162 Wharf Road, Newcastle, a three-storey ferry building and two-storey wharf building, has 3,000 sqm of retail space for lease in June 2015 through Colliers International Newcastle.</li>
<li>A future development at 16-18a Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle West has 7,000 sqm for lease in a future development on the site through Colliers International Newcastle.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/14.3.224.2/scripts/premium/redir.aspx?SURL=yf6zTID0UnPyHU9SYksHj0YWxK458vqMHcQn8lGhudVaiqcAvXbSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AYgBsAG8AZwAuAGMAbwByAGUAbABvAGcAaQBjAC4AYwBvAG0ALgBhAHUALwB3AHAALQBjAG8AbgB0AGUAbgB0AC8AdQBwAGwAbwBhAGQAcwAvADIAMAAxADUALwAwADYALwBQAHUAbABzAGUALQBOAEMAUwBhAGwAZQBzAEMAaABhAHIAdAAuAGcAaQBmAA..&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fblog.corelogic.com.au%2fwp-content%2fuploads%2f2015%2f06%2fPulse-NCSalesChart.gif" target="_blank" rel="wp-prettyPhoto[g4923]"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-4925" src="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Pulse-NCSalesChart.gif" alt="Newcastle Cityscope Quarterly Sales Graph" width="532" height="321"></a>
Cityscope covers 28 predominantly capital city CBD markets across Australia and New Zealand, providing a rich level of property level data including building attributes, tenancy detail, sales and ownership and can be contacted <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/products/cityscope" target="_blank">here</a>. <a href="https://mail.privatemedia.com.au/owa/14.3.224.2/scripts/premium/redir.aspx?SURL=_pCOyVu-2ro81S9Q6yyJCTaqjkAX_XG9zRjjfOFcAvdaiqcAvXbSCGgAdAB0AHAAOgAvAC8AdwB3AHcALgBjAG8AcgBlAGwAbwBnAGkAYwAuAGMAbwBtAC4AYQB1AC8AcAByAG8AZAB1AGMAdABzAC8AYwBpAHQAeQBzAGMAbwBwAGUA&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.corelogic.com.au%2fproducts%2fcityscope" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Newcastle commercial property activity ticking over: Cityscope

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<div>The REINSW has noted a rise in vacancy rates in the NSW coastal regional city of Newcastle, up from 3.4 per cent to 4.6 per cent.</div>
<div>
 The Hunter also saw a rise from 3.1 per cent to 3.9 per cent, the April 2015 Real Estate Institute of New South Wales data revealed.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It has been suggested the spike reflects unemployment rates of 8.4 per cent at Newcastle or even higher around the Hunter region at 11.8%, according to the ABS.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<h2>Unemployment Rates by Labour Force Region, April 2015 (15+) (%)</h2>
<div>
<table class="DataTable" border="1" rules="all" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<th scope="col">Labour Force Region</th>
<th scope="col">Unemployment Rate</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Northern Beaches</td>
<td>2.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - North Sydney and Hornsby</td>
<td>3.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Sutherland</td>
<td>3.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Eastern Suburbs</td>
<td>3.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury</td>
<td>4.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Capital Region</td>
<td>4.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Inner West</td>
<td>4.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Outer West and Blue Mountains</td>
<td>5.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - City and Inner South</td>
<td>5.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Parramatta</td>
<td>5.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Far West and Orana</td>
<td>5.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Central Coast</td>
<td>5.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Riverina</td>
<td>5.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Outer South West</td>
<td>6.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Blacktown</td>
<td>6.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Ryde</td>
<td>6.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - South West</td>
<td>7.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Sydney - Inner South West</td>
<td>7.3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Coffs Harbour - Grafton</td>
<td>7.5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Mid North Coast</td>
<td>7.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Central West</td>
<td>8.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Illawarra</td>
<td>8.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>New England and North West</td>
<td>8.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Murray</td>
<td>8.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Newcastle and Lake Macquarie</td>
<td>8.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven</td>
<td>8.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Richmond - Tweed</td>
<td>8.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hunter Valley exc Newcastle</td>
<td>11.8</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It is a lot tighter south of Sydney Wollongong saw vacancies rise 0.8 per cent in the month to 1.8 percent.
<div> </div>
<div>There was a 0.3 per cent increase in the Illawarra to 1.3 per cent.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Sydney vacancy rates remained stable in April 2015, tightening in the inner and middle ring, but recording an increase in vacancy rates in the outer.
</div>
</div>
</div>
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Newcastle's worrying high rental vacancy rate: REINSW

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The Anglican Diocese of Newcastle has sold Bishopscourt on The Hill to a local purchaser.
The sale was negotiated by Scott Walkom and Kate Rundle of Walkom Real Estate with the Diocese confirming that the price achieved was in excess of the amount mentioned in recent media reports.
The church was reported as expecting to sell for more than $4.75 million. 
<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/for-sale/34-brown-street-newcastle-nsw-2300-2011896329" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">The 4,130 square metre Brown Street property</a> housed the city’s successive Anglican bishops until current bishop Greg Thompson chose to reside elsewhere.
The seven bedroom, four bathroom 1929 Bishopscourt is not heritage listed but parts of its grounds are. 
Last year, the Anglican Synod gave the greenlight for the Newcastle sale to be considered. At the time Bishop Greg Thompson asked the Synod to consider “the economics of having this property, the suitability of it as the home of the Bishop and family, and the historic sentiment of previous bishops who lived within it.” 
The Diocesan Council and Trustees of Church Property approved the sale in March. The proceeds of the sale will go towards providing a residence for the Bishop of Newcastle and any additional funds will be invested to both look after that property and to assist with the costs of episcopal ministry in the Diocese.
<a href="/news/unsold-bishopscourt-darling-point-gets-eighth-archbishop-he-said-she-said">The Sydney Bishopscourt</a> failed to sell on its recent listing.
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Bishopscourt, Newcastle sold by Anglican Diocese

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The historic inner-city abode of former Newcastle Lord Mayor Jeff McCloy and wife Tracey has been sold for $2 million, having sought offers last month over $2 million.
The McCloys had it listed through <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/church-street-the-hill/Property-Details-sold-residential-7722264" target="_blank">PRD Nationwide Newcastle agent Mark Kentwell</a>.
The five bedroom residence at 122 Church Street, The Hill cost $2.4 million in early 2008.
The move follows Jeff’s resignation as Lord Mayor in August.
“Now that Jeff is no longer serving as Mayor, the couple has no need for such a significant inner-city residence,” Mark Kentwell said during its marketing.
The Belmont-based McCloys purchased the 1880s property, known as Egmont House, as a second home in 2008, then engaging Suters Architects and Graph Building in 2009 to renovation the property which has water views.
It was built in 1880 for Harbour Master Captain David Joseph Williams.
The marketing material says the "tri-level residence melds historic charm with modern sophistication."
It comes with a lift, gym and home office and also has a semi-self contained section suitable for a live in nanny.
The property was offered to the market earlier this year with Walkom Real Estate seeking offers between $2.6 million and $3 million, but was withdrawn until the latest marketing campaign.
 
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Former Newcastle Lord Mayor Jeff McCloy takes property loss on The Hill

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Australia has one of the most residentially mobile populations of any country. This means we don't mind moving house.
Researchers refer to this as Net Internal Migration, or NIM. With so much attention focused on Sydney's hot property market and the rapid growth in the city's house prices recently, it is easy to see how regional migration starts, as people move from cities to regional areas.
We are already seeing many families priced out of Sydney looking for more value for their money. This migration pattern has been creeping up into the Central Coast and Newcastle over the past few months.
In fact, Newcastle experienced the second largest influx of domestic migrants between 2010 and 2011.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in the 2010-11 period Newcastle was second only to Perth in receiving the highest amount of people moving from other capital cities.
Newcastle was also the sixth highest net gainer of domestic migration as a percentage of its population between 2006 and 2011.
With Newcastle experiencing some of Sydney's spillover, there seems to be a local problem emerging.
Some Novocastrians are now looking to do the same and eyeing off other areas within the Hunter Region in which to start their families. A quick search online for houses for sale around $400,000 in Newcastle throws up a few apartments and small, unrenovated two bedroom homes on very small lots.  In Sydney of course, the pickings are much slimmer.
Rachael Brecht from Jurds Real Estate in Cessnock says: "We have been getting more enquiry from Newcastle and the Central Coast buyers. We even see some Tree Changers coming from Sydney. They are looking for good quality renovated houses with large backyards and good schools and good sporting and shopping facilities.  We have all this and more in Cessnock with the beautiful Hunter Valley vineyards and their world famous cafes and restaurants at our doorstep, we really do have lots to offer."
She's currently marketing a three bedroom house on 800 square metres of land, with a price guide of $399,000.
With the Hunter Expressway now offering quicker access, you can be in the Newcastle CBD within 50 minutes. Cessnock is a two hour drive from Sydney. There are good local employment opportunities, as in this city which has a population of over 54,000, there is a strong, diverse economy.  The health, tourism, retail, manufacturing (wine) and training and education industries are the <a href="https://economy.id.com.au/cessnock/Employment-census" target="_blank">highest employers in the area</a>. 
For buyers from Sydney or Newcastle a three bedroom house on 800sqm of land for $400,000 is very good value. When you combine the low interest rates we are experiencing now, then this may be a great way of getting ahead.
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

The search widens for families priced out of cities

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The Hastings Funds Management syndicate has won the NSW state government tender for the Port of Newcastle.
It was announced by the NSW Premier Mike Baird who sought offers in his 2013 budget.
The Hastings partner, China Merchants Group, is <a href="https://wwwen.cmhk.com" target="_blank">a state owned corporation</a> of People's Republic of China.
The syndicate will pay $1.75 billion for the port, with the proceeds to split between the Restart NSW infrastructure fund and the Newcastle city centre redevelopment.
Five final bids were received for the Newcastle port, the world's largest coal terminal.
It has been forecast to have $69 million earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation in the 2013-14 financial year.
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New NSW premier Mike Baird finds his Port of Newcastle buyer

<html><body>
The rejuvenation of Newcastle CBD, including works on the University of Newcastle’s $95 million campus, has caused a surge in buying activity in the area, according to PRDnationwide Newcastle and Lake Macquarie managing director, Mark Kentwell.
Kentwell noted that investors and first home buyers are among those interested in <a href="/news">Newcastle</a>, with activity higher in the past six months than it has been in a few years. This is <a href="/expert-insights/buying/hotspot-newcastle-tipped-for-strong-growth">not the first time Newcastle has been tipped for growth - being referred to as a hotspot in 2011</a>.
“The university, new courthouse and pending relocation of the rail are factors that have put Newcastle on the map for buyers and developers,” he said.
“After years of analysing the city, there is an acceptance now that residential is in demand and commercial will follow suit once there is a larger population in the city.”
The expectation is for more students and staff to live in the city from 2017, with out of town investors and SMSF investors active in off the plan sales.
“There is also heavy investment generally from non-local buyers as Newcastle’s growth potential becomes more apparent,” he said.
“We are witnessing strong buyer interest in any well-located quality project that comes to market.”
<blockquote>
“After years of analysing the city, there is an acceptance now that residential is in demand and commercial will follow suit once there is a larger population in the city.”
</blockquote>
Developers are also reacting to the growth in confidence.
“There are a lot of sites in the city that have been dormant and neglected over the years - they now have the opportunity to be brought back to life,” he said.
Image courtesy of Wikipedia/Creative Commons.
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