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

Perth

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Perth’s median house price and median rent have both remained stable in the three months to August 2017.
The median house price is sitting at $515,000, and the overall median rent resting at $350 for the fourth month in a row.
REIWA President Hayden Groves said it was encouraging to see the median price remain firm across both sectors of the Perth property market.
“The stable medians are good news and indicate that seller’s and landlord’s expectations are matching those of buyers and tenants,” said Mr Groves.
According to the latest reiwa.com data, listings for sale have continued to trend marginally lower over the past month, by one per cent.
However, in comparison to three months ago, listings levels are lower by 10 per cent.
“The reduction of properties for sale should create a better balance between the supply and demand of Perth’s overall housing stock.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/09/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-09-06%20at%2010.39.25%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/09/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-09-06%20at%2010.39.25%20am.jpg" alt="">
“Traditionally in spring, there tends to be a lift in sales activity which means there is potential for the median house price to increase in the coming months as we see more demand for housing and increased competition from buyers,” said Mr Groves.
In the residential rental market, reiwa.com data shows stock has reduced by six per cent to 10,046 properties for rent, with leasing activity up by eight per cent during the month of August.
“The boost in leasing activity is pleasing to see and has contributed to the declining trend in listings levels as rental stock gets absorbed due to the demand from tenants.
“This improved activity is also helping to keep the overall median rent in check at $350 per week, stable for the fourth consecutive month, which is welcome news for landlords and property managers alike.
“With the warmer weather ahead, we should typically see both buyer and tenant activity levels increase.
“Together with the stabilising trends in median house and rent prices, the Perth property market is showing positive signs as we head into spring and summer,” said Mr Groves.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Perth median house price holds firm in August: REIWA

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Residents in Perth are very careful when upgrading or renovating their homes, according to a recent Herron Todd White report.
The property investment firm says that this is due to lack of consumer confidence.
“The Western Australian economy has been haunted by a lack of consumer confidence over the past couple of years, hence home owners have utilised a high degree of caution when it comes to upgrading or extending their homes.
“Similarly, the prospect of paying stamp duty in a subdued economy has stalled transactions of established dwellings unless the product is highly desired by the market.
“The problem with undertaking a renovation project in a subdued market is that there is always a risk that the expenditure will not reflect a direct increase in capital value.
“This has definitely been an issue in the Perth residential market in previous years and also extends to the new housing market.
“The issue is however exacerbated in the established housing market given the proportionately higher costs involved in extension or renovation works.
“As an example, new construction typically occurs for rates of $1,000 to $1,500 per square metre of living area.
In the situation of an extension or renovation, these rates quite commonly start at $2,000 and rise rapidly towards $3,000 per square metre for single level properties,” the report stated.
Decisions for renovations are usually done due to emotional choices Herron Todd White comments.
“Hence in the current market, decisions made to extend or renovate are most often based on emotional choices rather than financial common sense.
“They commonly occur with families in well located, established areas offering little housing variety, where the location is not willing to be sacrificed regardless of the cost of the works involved to transfer the dwelling into something more modern and comfortable,” the report commented.
Herron Todd White warns that renovating a property in a unpopular area will be particularly challenging.
“In the current market, undertaking such a project in an outlying, potentially less desirable area is likely to be particularly challenging.
“We have seen several investors follow the flip method and come unstuck, either due to the higher holding costs associated with longer selling periods or by simply mistiming the market and the market corrects downwards as money is invested into the project. Hence these projects are not for the faint hearted.
“Some typical areas that are still seeing a decent level of extension or renovation work include Duncraig in the north where a renovator’s delight can be obtained for a little over $500,000, but well renovated properties can achieve in the $800,000s.
“The suburb is well located, being close to the coast but with good transport links to the CBD.
“An example in the south is Parkwood, where entry level housing sits at around $400,000 and good product can nudge past $600,000.
“The area offers little variety of housing but is well established with good sporting, shopping and employment centres in close proximity.
“Also in the south, the suburb of Melville has seen a significant amount of redevelopment along with restoration of the original cottages.
“The suburb is garnering interest due to its proximity to the Swan River and Fremantle and proximity to more upmarket and sought after suburbs such as Alfred Cove and Attadale,” the report warns.
A four bedroom house renovation-ready at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-duncraig-125713754" target="_blank">6 Griffell Way</a>, Duncraig (above) has been listed for $699,000.
Similarly a renovation-ready three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-melville-123699462" target="_blank">29 Shelshaw Street</a>, Melville (below) has been listed from $769,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/20/29%20Shelshaw%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Being careful is a top priority for home owners that plans on renovations in the near future Herron Todd White says.
“All in all, we would urge caution for any home owner considering undertaking an extension or renovation project in the current market place.
“It would be wise to speak to multiple builders to ensure you are getting the most competitive quote and seek the advice of a local property valuer to ensure that you understand the risk and reward equation prior to committing to anything,” the report stated.
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Perth residents careful when upgrading or renovating properties: HTW

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Online property marketplace iBuyNew Group Limited has expanded into Western Australia by acquiring assets from Perth-based real estate project marketing business Indo-Pacific Group Pty Ltd for $625,000.
The company said it had entered into an Asset Sale Agreement with IPG, owned by the Clough family’s investment arm McRae Investments. 
IPG operates Indo-Pacific Property and focuses on new property sales and property management throughout Australia. 
The acquisition will allow IBN to expand into property management and grow its national footprint.
IPG has sold more than 300 new properties since April 2015 across Australia with a total value of $250 million and more than $6 million in commissions. 
The deal creates a combined gross future receivables book of $6.58 million, and will be accretive to IBN’s revenue and earnings.
As part of the deal, IBN will also pay the vendors 50% of the commissions received by IBN from the future commissions receivable book in excess of $250,000. 
As part of the transaction, executive chairman of IPG and McRae Investments, Stephen Quantrill, will join the IBN board, while McRae Investments will take a 10 percent stake in the company. 
Assets purchased from IPG include a $2.6 million future commissions receivable book, a property management business and rent roll and all associated brand and intellectual property. 
iBuyNew CEO Alex Caraco said the company was looking to acquire strategic-fit assets that “will work well within our network and capabilities”.
Caraco took over as CEO from founder Mark Mendel earlier this year and said the company wanted to expand its presence with plans to install sales teams in all mainland state capitals as well as on the Gold Coast.
Last year, it acquired Melbourne-based property research advisers Nyko Property Pty Ltd.  
“I also feel the WA market is at a turning point and provides great real estate value and the mining industry is now beginning to slowly recover,” said Caraco.
He said it was the right time to invest in the west.
Quantrill said the deal would provide the platform to continue growing the Indo-Pacific Property operations and brands.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

iBuyNew looks west for growth, buys Perth-based real estate business

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Perth is the only locality where home values have declined over the past year, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that in the past 12 months Perth’s home values has declined by 3.2%.
This is not helped by the weekly decline of 0.6% or its monthly decline of 0.7%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-28%20at%201.23.03%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-28%20at%201.23.03%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne scores the highest 12 month growth in home values with an increase of 15.4%.
Sydney trails behind Melbourne with a 12 month growth of 11.6%.
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Perth home values decline by 3% over past 12 months: CoreLogic

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The high price of parking has discouraged shoppers from coming into the CBD, exacerbating the issues faced by the city’s retail industry including low foot traffic and a dwindling economy. 
Lino Iacomella, Property Council WA executive director said the State Government must do everything it can to increase the number of people shopping in the Perth CBD and should commit to not increasing the Perth Parking Levy in the upcoming State Budget.
“The Perth Parking Levy raised an estimated $34 million in 2012/13 with a $365 per bay increase announced in the 2014/15 Budget (despite the $48 million of funds unspent)," he said.
“The city centre is facing significant economic challenges following the decline of the investment boom with CBD office vacancies now at 21%. The decline in the number of people working in the CBD has led to a jump in retail vacancies to 16%.
‘If less people now work in the CBD, we must look at ways to attract people in from the suburbs. The Perth Parking Levy has driven up the cost of parking, making the city not competitive, compared to the suburban shopping centre that all offer free parking.
“The parking levy is highly inequitable as it only captures a small portion of the cars that contribute to Perth’s congestion issues.
“The Levy also applies to all commercial buildings’ parking bays, which makes investors less likely to purchase property in the CBD, stagnating the market and doing nothing to increase Perth’s worker population.
“Perth CBD is in urgent need of revitalisation. The State Government must commit to not increasing the Perth Parking Levy to spur the inner-city economy and keep WA growing."
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Perth parking levy driving shoppers out of CBD: Property Council WA

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Perth home buyers looking to trade up are now seeing more opportunity in areas such as Peppermint Grove, Applecross and North Coogee, which topped reiwa.com’s list of affluent suburbs that have become more affordable.
REIWA President Hayden Groves said while prices in these suburbs were still well above the Perth median house price, they had become more affordable for buyers looking to trade up into those million dollar suburbs.
Peppermint Grove saw the biggest annual average change in its median house price over the past five years, shifting from $3,750,000 (year to April 2012) to $3,350,000 (year to April 2017).
“Buyers are looking for opportunities in areas with a good lifestyle scene, cafes and restaurants. In particular, we are seeing buyers placing more importance on proximity to good public schools.
“Suburbs such as Applecross, Nedlands and Peppermint Grove are within the catchment for some of Perth’s best public schools.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-02%20at%2011.27.30%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-02%20at%2011.27.30%20am.jpg" alt="">
“Due to the easing off in median house prices of these suburbs, the opportunity is there to secure your ideal family home if you have the means,” said Mr Groves.
There’s also good news for sellers in Applecross, City Beach, Nedlands and Peppermint Grove, as properties are selling quicker in comparison to five years ago.
“In 2012, it took on average 120 days to sell a property in Peppermint Grove for instance. In more recent figures, the average selling days for the suburb sits at 90 days.
“We are also seeing sellers willing to negotiate and discount their initial asking price to achieve a sale,” said Mr Groves.
The average discount sellers in the five suburbs are applying to their asking price is around the eight to 10 per cent mark in the year to April 2017 data.
“Both buyers and sellers are benefitting from the current market conditions in these million dollar suburbs,” said Mr Groves.
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Buyers experiencing improved affordability in some of Perth’s million dollar suburbs

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The worst is behind the Perth property market after a 3-year cyclical downturn where supply outweighed demand amid record-high housing construction and slower population growth according to a new report by Momentum Wealth.
The report, Residential Property Spotlight: Perth found the number of properties for sale in Perth has hit a 2-year low at around 13,600 and building commencements have returned to normal levels after reaching a record high in 2015.
Damian Collins, Momentum Wealth managing director said supply and demand were starting to rebalance, which would help buoy property prices going forward.
“The research report concludes that the Perth market has bottomed and it’s now in a recovery stage,” he said..
“On the supply side, the report shows that the number of properties for sale has hit a 2-year low, meanwhile the amount of new properties being built has returned to average levels after dwelling starts hit a record high in 2015.
“After 3 years of an imbalance, this tightening of housing stock will allow demand to catch up to supply and subsequently will help underpin property price growth going forward.
“The research report explains that although Perth’s population growth has slowed following the end of the resources construction boom, it’s expected to rebound as the city’s labour market continues to strengthen.
"Perth’s unemployment rate had dropped to a 12-month low recently, and was in line with the national average. 
“Add to this the city’s encouraging housing affordability, which is the second-best in the nation only behind Hobart, and the report explains that more buyers will increasingly return to the market as job stability firms and the economy continues to gain momentum.
“As the jobs market continues to adjust in the aftermath of the resources construction boom, we can expect buyer confidence to return to normal levels and strengthen as the local economy diversifies into tourism, agriculture, technology and education."
 Fort more information from Momentum Wealth, <a href="https://www.momentumwealth.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Perth property market recovering

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Perth sellers struggling to sell should look at going to auction, with reiwa.com data revealing it was 42 days faster to sell by auction in the metropolitan area than by private treaty.
REIWA President Hayden Groves said while auctions represented a small component of the Perth property market, those sellers who did choose to list their property for auction were experiencing significantly faster selling times.
“On average, it takes around 70 days to sell by private treaty in Perth, but sellers who go to auction are achieving sales in as quickly as 28 days,” Mr Groves said.
“In this market, when there is plenty of competition between sellers to secure a buyer, standing out from the crowd is paramount.
“Selling at auction has plenty of benefits for the vendor, with a short but high profile marketing campaign bringing serious buyers to the forefront quickly.
“You also have the security of knowing if your home doesn’t sell at the fall of the hammer, you can continue to negotiate a purchase price with those interested buyers after the auction using the more familiar private treaty method.”
reiwa.com data shows auction sales in Perth peaked in December 2016, lifting to 2.31 percent of total sales activity in the metro area for that month, before returning to just below two per cent by March 2017.
“Auctions are still relatively unfamiliar to West Australians, but you only have to look to the East Coast, particularly Sydney and Melbourne, to see how successful this method of selling can be.
“I encourage WA sellers to speak with their real estate agents about whether auctions are the right fit for them,” Mr Groves said.
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Auctions achieve significantly faster selling times in Perth

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Perth’s housing market reported steady performance, according to CoreLogic’s latest update report.
The property data firm says that house values remained unchanged while unit values increased slightly.
For more information see the video below:
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uDmAmOPXaq8" frameborder="0" width="450" height="253"></iframe>
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Perth housing market update: Tim Lawless

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Perth continues to present opportunities for both buyers and investors, according to Domain's latest State of the Market report.
The median house price has fallen to just under $556,000 this quarter, while unit prices grew to almost $378,000.
The mixed market is prime for first home buyers looking to secure something with ocean views, without breaking the bank.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-20%20at%2010.07.32%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/07/20/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-20%20at%2010.07.32%20am.jpg" alt="">
With unit prices rebounding, Domain suggested now could be the time to secure an investment property as the increasingly stable market points positively toward long-term gains.
 
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