The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

off-the-plan

<html><body>
Off-the-plan <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a> and <a href="/new-townhouses">townhouses</a> can offer excellent opportunities to secure a brand new home for a great price. They can also boast state-of-the-art amenity offerings and hard-to-pass-up incentives. However, before you sign any contracts, it's always wise to undergo thorough due diligence to make sure that the offer is really as good as it sounds on paper and you can <a href="/guides">make your purchase with confidence</a>. To help you with this, we've prepared a list of 55 important questions to ask the sales agent about the off-the-plan property you're interested in. 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

<h2 class="rtecenter">PRODUCT</h2>

Firstly, you'll want to ensure the apartment you're buying has been built using high-quality materials and constructed by reputable builders. It's important to <a href="/guides/20-things-you-should-look-out-for-before-you-buy-property">gather as much information and documentation as possible</a> so that you're not surprised with any hidden covenants if you want to build a mezzanine or blockers if you want to apply for a street parking permit.

Questions to ask:

Can I see a comprehensive building material list?

Are the floorplans customisable?

Are there any fixture and fitting upgrade options?

Can I tour some previous projects by the developer?

Who is the developer, architect, interior designer, landscape architect and builder of this development?

Have proper building inspections been undertaken prior to construction?

Can I see a copy of the building report and council plan submission?

Is the development <a href="/guides/20-simple-changes-around-the-home-to-reduce-your-environmental-impact">environmentally conscious</a>?

Have <a href="/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-off-the-plan-apartment">low VOC and formaldehyde-free</a> products been used?

Is there a secure carpark, and what is the street parking like? Can I request a resident parking permit from council?

What brand appliances have been used?

Where have the fixtures and fittings been sourced?

What is included/not included?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">LOCATION</h2>

Other than doing your own research about the location (walking around the suburb by foot is a great way to do so!) – your sales agent will also have access to a lot of information and statistics that might be helpful for your decision-making.

Questions to ask:

Where is the local supermarket?

What are the highlights of the area?

Is there any planned infrastructure within the surrounding neighbourhood?

Is the population of this area growing or declining?

How far away is public transport?

How safe is the area?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227]

 

 

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

<h2 class="rtecenter">LIFESTYLE</h2>

Living in an apartment can come with many perks, including access to lifestyle facilities, resident lounges and more. Understanding the rules surrounding amenity use and lifestyle within the building will help you to determine whether the property is right for you.

Questions to ask:

What amenities will I have access to?

What are the access hours for the pool/gym?

How often can I book the dining/lounge/cinema?

Is there an owner’s corporation and how regularly will I need to attend meetings?

What percentage of sales have been made to owner-occupiers vs. investors?

Can my friends and family utilise the amenities within the apartment building?

Who is the body corporate/strata manager?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">LEGAL</h2>

While it's important to always engage a conveyancing lawyer when purchasing a home (and they should be able to add to this list of questions surrounding legalities), here are a few simple questions to consider asking the agent regarding your obligations, rights and restrictions.

Questions to ask:

Will there be a cooling-off period when I can change my mind about the purchase?

Is there a building guarantee?

What happens if there are any issues with the building or my apartment?

What covenants are there on the property?

Can I make changes to my apartment without consent from my neighbours?

What happens if something breaks within the apartment building? Who is liable?

What happens if I need to sell prior to settlement?

What are my obligations as a resident of this building?

What if my apartment doesn’t reflect the renders and proposed plans?

What is likely to happen if the sunset clause is enacted prior to settlement?

Can I rent out my apartment?

Can I offer my new apartment as an <a href="/guides/breezybnb-chooses-urban-s-5-best-brisbane-apartments-for-airbnb">Airbnb</a>?

Who will notify me if plans change prior to construction?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">FINANCIAL</h2>

Before you hand over your deposit, you're going to want to make sure there are no hidden costs and that you will be able to accommodate any <a href="/guides/18-ongoing-rental-property-costs-and-which-ones-are-tax-deductible">annual/ongoing fees</a> associated with owning an apartment/townhouse. 

Questions to ask:

Is the <a href="/guides/tips-for-negotiating-with-real-estate-agents">asking price negotiable</a>?

Am I eligible for any <a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-australias-first-home-buyer-grants">first home buyer grants</a>/subsidies/concessions?

Does the developer offer any financial incentives?

How much is the minimum deposit?

What happens to my deposit?

What are the annual body corporate/strata fees?

What are the annual rates currently?

What happens if the property depreciates upon settlement, will I still have to follow through with the purchase?

Is there potential for oversupply within this area that could impact the value of my home?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2772]

 

<h2 class="rtecenter"> </h2>

 

<h2 class="rtecenter">TIMEFRAME</h2>

Lastly, in order to plan out the next phases of development, you'll need a good idea around the <a href="/guides">timeframe of your development</a>. This will help you to know what to pay and when, when settlement will be and the slated completion of your new apartment. 

Questions to ask:

At which stage will I pay my deposit?

What date will I need to have secured my home loan by?

When is this development slated for completion?

What happens if my apartment isn’t completed on time?

When I move in, will the development be 100% completed or will construction continue after I’ve moved in?

When will the settlement be?

Who will be my main point of contact throughout the buying process?

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559]

 

Got more questions to add to the list? Let us know in the comments section below.

 
</body></html>

Olivia Round

55 important questions to ask the sales agent when buying off-the-plan

Buying <a href="/developments">off-the-plan</a> allows property seekers to purchase brand new <a href="/new-apartments">apartments</a> and <a href="/new-townhouses">townhouses</a> well before they have&nbsp;been built. Off-the-plan homes also give buyers the flexibility to customise their home prior to construction and the ability to often secure property&nbsp;a lower cost that a pre-existing house. To help you gain a better understanding of the off-the-plan process, here is a timeline outlining building concept to completion. You'll also learn at what stage of the process you can place an offer.

<h2>Stage One –&nbsp;THE PLANNING</h2>

First, the developer will acquire land to develop. This can involve cold calling property owners to scope their interest in selling (even if they haven’t considered it) or utilising traditional purchase methods (such as going through an agent). Sometimes developers will offer slightly more than the RV* because they will be able to recoup the additional funds once the development is completed and goes to sales.&nbsp;Once a site has been purchased, the developer will then get an initial plan drawn up by an architect, with the help of engineers, building surveyors, interior designers and landscape architects. The design team will usually go through a number of design iterations to gain approval by the council. As soon as a developer submits plans to council, the project is then listed on Apartments.com.au.

*Rateable value

<hr />
<h2>Stage Two – THE APPROVAL </h2>

Once the development application has been submitted by the developer, the council will publish this information online and begin their routine checks. The proposed building must be compliant with local building codes and fit within the covenants on the site title (eg. The building must not exceed a certain height, there must be a certain amount of green space within the public realm, the heritage façade of the pre-existing building must remain intact, etc.). Once the council and the developer have reached a decision on the final design, approval is then granted. At this stage, Apartments.com.au will notify any followers of the particular project that the project is likely to be coming soon.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_11.04.12_am.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="402" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_11.04.12_am.png?itok=xACuebMo" width="580" /></a></figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Three – “COMING SOON”</h2>

There is a period between “approval” and “registration and sale” before the project goes to market. This is time for the developer to offer the first pick of apartments/townhomes offshore or to VIP buyers. By this stage, many prospective buyers will be keeping an eye out for the date when the development goes to market. Apartments.com.au is always one of the first to notify interested buyers.

<hr />
<h2>Stage Four – REGISTRATION &amp; SALES</h2>

The official registration and sales period will often include a public launch and the opening of a display suite. The development will then enter a marketing phase, where a website is launched, as well as advertising across the broad spectrum of property marketing websites. Buyers will have the opportunity to visit the display suite and make a formal offer on the apartment/townhouse of their choice. During this stage, buyers will also pay their deposit to ensure they secure their new home. &nbsp;

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_8.56.41_am.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Browse Urban's range of apartments and townhomes for sale"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="225" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-08_at_8.56.41_am.png?itok=-t6zfeqU" title="Browse Urban's range of apartments and townhomes for sale" width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Browse Urban's range of <a href="/news">apartments and townhomes for sale</a></figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Five – GROUNDBREAKING + CONSTRUCTION COMMENCES</h2>

Prior to construction, the site will be cleared and prepared for building. Once this is complete and the development is ready to commence construction, a ceremonial ‘groundbreaking’ or ‘sod turning’ ceremony is held on-site. The event will see a group of key dignitaries take shovels to the soil, marking the first phase of construction. Apartments.com.au will then document the construction process with photos, videos, and articles; keeping buyers in the loop of the progress of their new home. During this phase, we have also noticed a lot of engagement from buyers who visit Apartments.com.au to ask questions about their new home and to interact with other buyers.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/stleonards.png" rel="gallery-all" title="St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story here."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/stleonards.png?itok=zLQR_F0l" title="St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story here." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>St Leonards groundbreaking. Read the full story <a href="/news/st-leonards-new-43-storey-tower-the-landmark-commences-construction">here</a>.</figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Six – TOPPING OUT + SETTLEMENT</h2>

As the development reaches competition, another ceremony will be held to mark the ‘topping out’, which is when the tower reaches its highest point. At this point, the settlement will take place, giving buyers the opportunity to check their new home to ensure it is exactly what they had paid for in the early stages of development.

Also during settlement, the remainder of the sale price is paid, and keys are exchanged.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/aurora.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story here."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="246" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aurora.jpg?itok=P2WdYh7f" title="Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story here." width="580" /></a>

<figcaption>Aurora Melbourne Central topping out ceremony. Read the full story <a href="/news/reaching-new-heights-melbournes-new-tallest-building-aurora-tops-out">here</a>.</figcaption>
</figure>

<hr />
<h2>Stage Seven&nbsp;– BUYERS MOVE IN</h2>

The&nbsp;final stage of the process is where buyers move into their new homes. This can be staggered throughout construction (eg. as soon as lower levels of a tower are built, residents may be able to move in early).

If you've just bought a new apartment and are ready to move in, you may be interested to learn <a href="/guides/14-steps-to-making-your-brand-new-apartment-feel-like-home">how to make your apartment feel like home</a>.&nbsp;

Lead image credit:&nbsp;Marvin Meyer

How does buying off-the-plan work?

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In Australia’s current apartment market, concern over build quality has led buyers to be cautious when buying off-the-plan. However, it’s important to realise that there are plenty of exceptional buildings being constructed today which feature 7+ star environmental ratings, cutting edge technology, intuitive master planning and innovative architectural design. These new developments will hopefully shift the perception around buying a new apartment and provide a reference for future builds to replicate.

So how do you differentiate a good development from a bad one?

While it’s relatively subjective as to what defines a “good development”, following these 8 steps will ensure you feel more confident that the property you’re looking at is right for you.

<h2>#1 Research the developer, architect and builder’s track records extensively</h2>

Rule 101 of buying a <a href="/new-apartments">new apartment</a> is undertaking thorough <a href="/guides/20-things-you-should-look-out-for-before-you-buy-property">due diligence</a>.

Begin your search online by entering multiple variants of the team’s credentials.

<ul>
<li>You can do this by searching [developer’s name] on Google &gt; Tools &gt; All results &gt; Verbatim</li>
	<li>To find recent content, select Any time &gt; Past month/past week</li>
	<li>And to find any news coverage, select the “news” tab in Google</li>
</ul>
You can then search for the developer’s previous projects on <a href="/">Urban</a> – and take a look at them in real life. Find out if you can speak with any residents who live in one of the developer's buildings, and ask them if they're happy with their home, if there have been any issues since they’ve lived there and whether their apartment was delivered on time.

Another important way to gather information is to approach industry representatives, such as town planners, master builders and environmental consultants and ask for their honest opinion of the quality of work produced by the project team. This could be a simple task of visiting your local council office or picking up the phone to call a few different companies.

McGrath Projects’ General Manager Adam Sparkes also stresses the importance of a background check.

<blockquote>
“My advice to any potential purchasers of brand new or off-the-plan properties would be to undertake a thorough background check on both the developer and the builder. What legacy buildings have they delivered in the past? Check for local, national and international industry awards.”
</blockquote>

Adam Sparkes McGrath Projects General Manager via <a href="https://www.smartpropertyinvestment.com.au/development/19944-asbestos-again-the-future-of-apartment-values-as-cladding-quality-concerns-hit-fever-pitch">Smart Property Investment</a>

<h2>#2 Get finance pre-approval before you begin your property search</h2>

Buying off-the-plan is an attractive option to many due to its perks, such as substantial discounts or cashback offers for early buyer inquiries. Securing your finance ahead of your search will give you more bargaining power when it comes to making an offer.

<blockquote>
“When buying an off the plan apartment early on, you’ll be able to lock one in at current market value for as little as 10%. Construction could well take a year or two, but in that time, the market value of your property is likely to increase. By getting in there early, you’ll avoid paying fees for being late to the chase down the line.”
</blockquote>

Ruralco Property, via <a href="https://www.ruralcoproperty.com.au/2018/01/29/6-tips-for-investing-in-off-the-plan-apartments/">6 Tips for investing in off-the-plan apartments</a>

<h2>#3 Ask to see a comprehensive material list</h2>

Aesthetics are usually the first thing buyers will look at in a new apartment. Instead, you should be focussing on the longevity and <a href="/guides/how-to-choose-the-right-flooring-for-your-off-the-plan-apartment">quality of the materials used</a>. Take the list to a few different building experts for a second opinion and do your own research online. Consider the pros and cons of each building material that will be used ­– and if you'd prefer wooden floors over carpet, it's always worth asking the sales agent as often interiors of apartments are relatively customisable.

<h2>#4 Talk to other people who have bought off the plan</h2>

If it’s your first time buying off the plan, reach out to someone who has already been through the process themselves. Join property Facebook groups; chat to friends and family; read online forums – absorb all the information you can. You may learn about a great new incentive a particular developer is offering, or perhaps a firm to watch out for. Unbiased and honest reviews will give you more certainty about your decision.

<h2>#5 Explore the area by foot</h2>

Even if there is no building at the site, walking around the area will give you a good feel for the suburb. You’ll also be able to discover what is within walking distance from your future apartment. While the apartment renders may look perfect online, the physical location of the development is arguably more important.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-02_at_4.00.01_pm.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Credit: Benjamin Sow"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="732" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-10-02_at_4.00.01_pm.png?itok=K7UdjXUl" title="Credit: Benjamin Sow" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Credit: Benjamin Sow</figcaption></figure><h2>#6 Choose your apartment carefully</h2>

Whether there are 10 or 100 apartments on offer, selecting the one for you can be a challenging task. Firstly, think about practicality – if it’s easy access you’re after, ground floor apartments are probably best for you. If a view is your priority, decide which side of the tower has the aspect of your choice. If you’re after lots of sunlight, choose a north-facing property.

<h2>#7 Prepare yourself for any unforeseen problems</h2>

Sometimes build schedules run late, or plans can require iterations before consent is approved. In this case, you have to be aware that there could be some blockers and the only option is to go with the flow. Communication with the sales agent will help you to stay up to date with the construction process – as well as following the project on Urban! 

<h2>#8 Ask questions</h2>

Prepare lots of questions before meeting with the sales agent. Don't be afraid to ask the agent too many questions, as providing you with answers is what will help them secure a sale. Before making the purchase, you need to feel confident that you have raised any concerns you may have first. 

Here are a few examples:

<ul>
<li>What is a rental guarantee?</li>
	<li>What are the body corporate fees</li>
	<li>What is the completion date</li>
	<li>How close will my apartment reflect the renders in the brochure?</li>
	<li>What features/appliances/extras are included and what are not? </li>
	<li>Is there a cooling-off period?</li>
	<li>Will I get my deposit back if the sale is not completed?</li>
	<li>What happens if I can't attain finance by the specified date?</li>
	<li>If I discover any building defects down the track, who will cover the remedial work?</li>
	<li>What happens if construction is completed late?</li>
	<li>Can I purchase this apartment using a <a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-australias-first-home-buyer-grants">First Home Buyer Grant</a>?</li>
</ul>
Once you've done your research and feel confident that the off-the-plan apartment or townhome is right for you, then it's time to navigate the buying process – our <a href="/guides/2019/06/17/urbans-first-home-buyer-guide">First Home Buyer Guide</a> outlines this in detail. 
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Tips for buying off-the-plan with confidence

Looking for a home on a budget? Here are 10 Melbourne apartments under $385,000

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<a href="https://www.premier.vic.gov.au/new-laws-pass-protecting-victorian-homeowners/">New laws have been passed</a> in Victoria under the Andrews Labor Government with the intent to protect <a href="/new-apartments">off-the-plan</a> buyers against negligent sunset clause arrangements, among other new bills included in <a href="https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/legislation/343-legislation-and-bills/articles/1824-bills-this-week">The Sale of Land Amendment Bill 2019</a>.

The new sunset clause regulations will retrospectively come into effect from 23rd August 2018, ensuring both current and future <a href="/new-apartments">off-the-plan</a> homeowners will be covered.

Up until now, developers have been able to include a sunset clause provision in <a href="/new-apartments">off-the-plan</a> contracts, meaning that they can terminate the contract where the plan of subdivision hasn’t been registered by a specific date. This has led to exploitation by some accounts whereby the developer has deliberately delayed delivery of a project to terminate <a href="/new-apartments">off-the-plan</a> contracts and then resell the apartment for a higher price.

The new initiative will mean developers may only exercise a sunset clause if written consent is provided by the buyer or Supreme Court of Victoria.

<blockquote>
“We’re ensuring that current or future homeowners aren’t being ripped off by dishonest developers, being misled about the history of their property and that vendors who do the wrong thing are punished accordingly.”
</blockquote>

- Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz

New laws will also:

<ul>
<li>Prohibit public auctions of land before 1 pm on Anzac Day, bringing the industry into line with the standard restricted business hours for the day</li>
	<li>Strengthen the existing requirement for vendors or real estate agents to disclose material facts about a property, and enable guidelines to detail what a material fact is likely to be (for example, a property’s past history as a clandestine drug laboratory or the site of a homicide)</li>
	<li>Introduce greater protections for people who purchase options to buy land as part of a land banking scheme, including requiring money paid for options to be held in a trust</li>
	<li>Prohibit certain terms contracts and rent-to-buy arrangements, with significant fines and potential jail time for vendors and third-party intermediaries to act as a strong deterrent.</li>
</ul>
<blockquote>
“Knowing they have the law behind them will give families and young people peace of mind when investing in the often-intimidating property market.”
</blockquote>

- Minister for Consumer Affairs Marlene Kairouz
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