Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[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

Parramatta

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Singapore-listed Chinese property developer Chiwayland has listed its 2878-square-metre development site in Parramatta, in Sydney's west.
It seeks buyers through Knight Frank and CBRE after buying it just over a year ago. 
There has been a rezoning of the land - and a potential floor space lift to 15:1 from 10:1 - since the site at 14-20 Parkes Street sold.
The Australian Financial Review has been told the site could potentially yield more than 380 units if the lift is successfully negotiated with council. 
Chiwayland International is the property division of conglomerate Chiway Group and is involved in residential and commercial development in China, including affordable housing, office buildings and education.
The company entered the Australian market in 2014. 
The acquisition of the site in Parramatta cost $27 million in January last year with then plans to develop a residential tower with about 350 apartments.
Picture courtesy of Parramatta City Council
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Chiwayland list Parramatta development site

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Parramatta City Council is releasing the first parcel of property for development as part of its $1.2 billion cultural and entertainment precinct on the Parramatta River.
At completion, the 20,000 square metre Riverbank mixed-use precinct will provide a blend of residential, dining, retail, heritage and cultural facilities including flexible open space that is expected to draw residents and visitors to the waterfront location.
The council will run an expressions of interest campaign throughout March for a 5,150 square metre parcel of land on the riverbank site earmarked for residential and retail development. The EOI campaign closes in early May.
Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said the redeveloped riverbank precinct will be an all-hours entertainment and cultural destination that will connect with and complement the $2 billion Parramatta Square business district.
“Council has a development blueprint for Riverbank that proposes up to 1,200 apartments, 6,000 square metres of retail, and 10,000 square metres of open space. It includes the preservation of local heritage and the possibility of an iconic cultural asset to distinguish Riverbank as the cultural heart of Australia’s next great city,” Cr Garrard said.
“The first parcel of land for sale sits on the western side of the precinct. It offers an enviable waterfront location prime for a high-quality development including residential, retail and dining spaces that can set the precedent for a vibrant Riverbank precinct.”
Cr Garrard said the site could accommodate up to 680 apartments in a 74-storey mixed-use tower, subject to council approval.
“We are offering this site without a development application as we want to give a developer the flexibility to achieve design excellence for the residential tower and retail space to complement Council’s vision for Riverbank,” he said.
“The successful proponent will be required to carry out a design competition and obtain all necessary approvals.”
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First site on Parramatta River released as part of makeover of riverbank

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GUEST OBSERVER
Proposals by the NSW Government to reopen Parramatta Gaol will stop the exciting urban renewal proposals for North Parramatta. 
The NSW Government seems to now have two contradictory approaches for the renewal of North Parramatta.
On one hand UrbanGrowth NSW proposes new residential towers around the old gaol and the proposed light rail will connect the precinct while on the other hand the government proposes to reopen the gaol which does not send a welcoming signal to incoming residents.
The NSW Government has given a positive focus to Parramatta as the second CBD for Sydney which is reflected in strategic planning and the announcement of the proposed light rail. This has led to strong market interest in developing residential and commercial buildings in the city centre and in the North Parramatta campus.
Their proposal to relocate the Power House museum to Parramatta adds to the build-up in confidence that the city is becoming a very desirable place to live and work in.
The confidence that is growing about Parramatta’s maturity as a cosmopolitan centre could be set back by the reopening of a gaol on the city’s doorstep. The reopening would certainly be a setback for the government’s recently announced plans to provide much needed housing on the land adjacent to the old gaol. The proposed urban renewal will reinforce the connection to jobs in the Westmead Medical Precinct and have all of this connected by light rail.
There must be other options for a new gaol that does not disrupt the exciting urban renewal of Parramatta and its surroundings.
Chris Johnson is chief executive officer of property development industry group Urban Taskforce and can be contacted <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;Itemid=126#.Vdaart55dFI" target="_blank">here</a>.
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Reopening Parramatta Gaol will stop the renewal of North Parramatta: Chris Johnson

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The development of Parramatta is on serious turbocharge right, prompting its rating it on John McGrath's top suburb picks in last year’s annual McGrath Report.
He indicated there were two key reasons:
• Commercial and infrastructure activities in and around Parramatta are leaving much of Sydney in their wake with many smart companies choosing to relocate closer to their employees 
• The activation of the river which has for many years been a forgotten waterway
McGrath recent advised he considered Parramatta among Sydney’s next major hot spots for property price rises. 
"When we talk about property hot spots, most people think of small, unknown, undeveloped pockets of a city; or perhaps areas on the outskirts set to benefit from something new, like a road upgrade or new train line.
"We don’t often think about major established centres but Parramatta is different.
"While it’s been Sydney’s second CBD for a long time, it’s now becoming Sydney’s new heart," he blogged on Switzer noting about $8 billion in construction projects are on the way along with further billions in new public infrastructure both in and around Parramatta CBD. 
"We’re talking new commercial centres, luxury residential apartments, recreational spaces, educational facilities, modernised streetscapes and major new transport."
He noted the population was changing in both size and character.
"It’s going from blue collar to white collar with more tertiary-educated locals working in higher paid jobs. 
"All of this will have a major and direct impact on property prices over the next 5-10 years."
He noted the median price for a three bedroom house in Parramatta was around $788,000 and a two bedroom apartment $586,000.
"Compare this to an inner city suburb close to Sydney’s CBD like Surry Hills, where a three bedroom house is $1.616 million and a two bedroom apartment is $950,000.
"Value, value, value!," he said.  
The most exciting development underway is the $2 billion Parramatta Square project, a three hectare site in the middle of the CBD that will comprise several new commercial and civic buildings, apartments, retailers, eateries and recreational facilities.
It will be home to a new University of Western Sydney Campus (completion due early 2017) as well as the Aspire residential tower, which will be the tallest residential building in NSW (completion due late 2019). 
In terms of public transport, Parramatta is being touted as Sydney’s ‘new Central’ with major projects to benefit the area including plans for a light rail network; the WestConnex road project; the North-West Rail Link project; and a new airport at Badgerys Creek. 
Australian and foreign developers are also recognising the enormous scope Parramatta has for new residential and commercial buildings – certainly far greater than the CBD. 
According to RP Data, Parramatta house prices rose by 27.3% in 2015 while Sydney as a whole grew by 11.5%.
"The rise of Parramatta – and its home values, is well underway!"
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Parramatta is on turbocharge to be property hotspot: John McGrath

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Bates Smart has been selected to design Walker Corporation’s 90-storey Aspire tower in Parramatta, beating off Fender Katsalidis, DBI Design and PTW Architects.
The decision was made by a panel comprising Parramatta City architect Kim Crestani, NSW government architect Peter Poulet, Barangaroo design director Bob Nation and Barry Mann, a member of Parramatta City’s property and significant assets team.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2016/03/10/016960-aspire-tower.jpg" alt="">
The $700 million tower will be Sydney’s tallest if completed to plan as the centrepiece of the $2 billion redevelopment of ­Parramatta Square, in Sydney’s west.
Bates Smart will be forced to first lodge a 70-storey development application, and only be permitted to request a taller tower once it has agreement from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2016/03/10/images.jpeg" alt="">
Walker Corporation is building two adjacent commercial towers designed by Johnson Pilton Walker.
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Aspire tower Parramatta needs aviation authority approvals to go 90 stories

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A sky-high cocktail bar with panoramic views of Sydney is set to become the highest bar in Parramatta.
Set top open in 2016/17, the Sky Bar sits more than 100 metres above the ground level atop Crown Group's new $309 million development V by Crown.
Crown Group Director of Sales and Marketing Roy Marcellus said the new Sky Bar at V by Crown would have the best views in Parramatta.
“There is a huge demand for bars like this in Parramatta; offering luxury style in a relaxed atmosphere," he said.
Designed by Sydney-based Allen Jack + Cottier and Koichi Takada Architects, the bar offers views of the Blue Mountains, Sydney CBD and the Sydney harbour.
The internal bar area with direct lift access spreads across 275 sqm of internal space and a 90 sqm outdoor terrace.
Stage one of the development is set to be completed in December and an official date for the Sky Bar opening will be announced later this year.
The 590 luxury apartment block has studios for sale from $550,000, one bedrooms from $729,000, two bedrooms from $920,000, and a three bedroom apartment for sale at $1.2 million.
There is one three bedroom penthouse which is for sale for $2.3 million.
The building features an alfresco dining and retail piazza on the ground level.
The development is 600 metres from Parramatta City Council's $2 billion, 3 hectare vertical village.
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For more information, <a href="https://vbycrown.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Sky-high cocktail bar atop V by Crown's Parramatta development

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Parramatta City Council is acquiring four sites along Phillip Street that it deems key to its River Strategy programme worth $200 million.
The council has zeroed in on Willow Grove, St Georges Terrace and other commercial buildings that will cost $35.5 million.
The council’s River Strategy envisions a makeover of the foreshore between Gasworks Bridge and Rings Bridge, O’Connell Street with better space for walking, cycling, recreation and the hosting of events such as New Year’s Eve.
The acquisitions are expected to improve the CBD’s connection to Parramatta River.
"These purchases will allow Council to provide a critical civic link within the City from Parramatta Square through to Riverbank and the foreshore. It allows Council to be more flexible in its activation and rejuvenation of a core precinct in our CBD," Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said. 
The River Strategy would be an economic injection into the city, he added.
“Historic Willow Grove will be included in of our plans to activate the Riverbank precinct which is a crucial part of Council’s River Strategy adopted earlier this year.”
A blueprint for the Riverbank is currently being considered by council.
It has also resumed control of the former David Jones car park site, which together with the four purchases will make up an 18,000 square metre foreshore site planned for mixed use such as cultural venues and apartments.
The project will be completed in stages over a 20-year timeframe with funding from a range of sources including the council, state government and the private sector.
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Parramatta Council buys four properties for its River Strategy plan

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Sydney’s Parramatta finished third on the list of most searched suburbs in 2015 compiled by rent.com.au, with median rents within the last 30 days at $460 per week, a rise of 2.2 percent over the last quarter.
The price range was relatively tight though, with $200 for a one-bedroom dwelling at the low end and $600 for a 5+ bedroom dwelling at the top end, the data from <a href="https://rent.com.au/" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a> showed.
However, Parramatta’s median rental growth fared better than surrounding suburbs — Rydalmere, Oatlands, Granville, Holroyd, Mays Hill, Westmead, Harris Park, North Parramatta and Merrylands, which was flat at $430 per week for the comparable 30-day period as well as over 90 days, the data showed.
Parramatta also fared better than surrounding suburbs for average days on market, which was 32 compared to 37 for bordering suburbs. The number was also down by eight days from the last quarter.
There were a total of 120 rental properties advertised in Parramatta within the last 30 days, up 13 from the previous 30 days.
Though the median rent for the last 30 days rose 2.2 percent, the graph for the six months till January is absent of clear peaks or troughs, both for apartments and houses.
There are a total of 4,372 rental properties in Parramatta, making up 61.6% of all properties in Parramatta (ABS, Census Data, 2011).
Nearly 80 percent of all dwellings in the suburbs are apartments, with the rest houses, the data showed.
Property Observer found these two recent examples, one a unit and the other a townhouse, on rent.com.au
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%2010.51.04%20AM.png" alt="" width="834" height="569">
1. A two-bedroom unit with a garage at 1/16-20 Lansdowne Street (above) is available for $460 per week.
 2. A two-bedroom full brick townhouse on 9/485 Church Street (below) has been advertised for $420 per week.
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%2010.51.22%20AM.png" alt="" width="683" height="463">
The ASX-listed Rent.com.au Ltd achieved a record 615,405 unique visitors to its website in January, followed by more than 610,000 unique visitors in February.
Landlords are able to list their property for free in a limited time offer on <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a>. 
 
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Rental range relatively tight in Parramatta: rent.com.au insight

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Payce is to buy a 4.5-hectare site in Melrose Park for $160 million from Aqualand.
Payce general manager Dominic Sullivan said Payce had previously purchased the adjoining Pfizer, Reckitt Benckiser and Big Sister sites located along Wharf Road.
Council recently identified Melrose Park in its draft Parramatta Employment Lands Strategy 2015 document as an employment lands precinct undergoing significant economic change and “suitable for large scale urban renewal”. 
Payce’s general manager, Dominic Sullivan said its plans included new public roads, electricity, water and services and major upgrades to the surrounding road network.
“Our plan presents a vision for the area that comprises a multi-staged mixed-use development which would result in 1,500 new jobs, new housing (including affordable and key-worker accommodation), commercial office and retail uses, along with a range of new and enhanced community facilities, public parks and other wider community benefits.”
The plan includes a retail village centre, as well as open space totalling 3.8 hectares.
"Sustainability is at the heart of the new Plan, featuring renewable energy generation for future homes, water recycling, sustainable transport initiatives and electric charge points for cars."
“Other facilities outlined in the Plan include an amphitheatre, childcare centres and multi-purpose community centres.
“Surrounding public benefits proposed include a $32 million contribution to the upgrade of nearby George Kendall Reserve, a new community aquatic facility, improvements to local cycleways and the introduction of an electric shuttle bus service to Meadowbank and West Ryde train stations.
“Discussions are also planned with relevant authorities for a private ferry service loop between Melrose Park, Parramatta and Sydney Olympic Park.”
Mr Sullivan said the proposed community benefits total well over $100 million and would be provided at no cost to Council or its ratepayers.
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Payce plans reveal vision for Melrose Park in Sydney's West

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Office transactions in Sydney's Parramatta district came in at around $243 million in the 12 months to December 2015 according to the February office market briefing from Savills, down 63 percent from the previous year.
Savilss noted transactions in 2014 to December totalled $665 million, noting current figures are down on the five year average of $310 million.
The briefing said investment demand for A Grade stock in Parramatta remains strong, though limited opportunities currently exist for investors. 
"The increase in investment activity over the past four years has been largely due to the transaction of many of Parramatta’s prime buildings, as vendors seek to take advantage of sharpening yields and improved investment demand from local and foreign investors," it said.
"However, the 'Private Investor' purchaser category was the most active in the investment market for the 12 months to December 2015, purchasing 36 percent of the stock sold (or $86 million worth of office transactions). Similarly the 'Private Investor' category had the most transactions."
 
<a href="/images/2016/02/17/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-17%20at%201.10.25%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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