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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Dwelling values across Perth have seen further decline by 3.2%, according to CoreLogic's latest monthly report.
The housing market has been in a downturn since December 2014 and the latest data reveals that dwelling values have fallen by 7.0% year on year.
<a href="/images/2016/10/17/Perth%20annual%20changes.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/17/Perth%20annual%20changes.jpg" alt="">
Buyer demand also seems to have been reduced with transaction numbers falling over the last 12 months along with the average selling time extended out to 75 days, as opposed to 66 days this time last year.
This is despite Perth having a very high number of listings allowing buyers a lot of options to choose from.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Perth's housing market continues to decline: CoreLogic

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Perth represents both danger and opportunity for property investors at present. 
The city, which led the nation on price and rental growth in 2012 and early 2013, is three years into a cyclical downturn, exacerbated by the wind-down in the resources investment boom.
Sales activity has been falling steadily since 2013 and the decline has gathered pace since the start of 2016. Some Perth suburbs have sales volumes at a fraction of their former levels, indicating further price decline is likely. 
This situation has been further impacted by vacancies well above 3% in many areas, as workers have left the city in the wake of the resources downturn and the ripple effect that has had on business in Perth (creating CBD office vacancies above 20 percent).
The situation also represents opportunity for counter-cyclical investors to buy well while price are down and competition is weak. Perth historically has been a population growth leader and one of the strongest capital cities for long-term capital growth. Perth property markets will recover and now is a good time to be looking for bargains.
Investors, however, should continue to avoid the inner-city apartment markets which have very high vacancies and an oversupply situation that is likely to get worse before it gets better. Housing markets will recover before apartment markets do.
Hotspotting’s latest research on sales activity demonstrates that the downward trend in the Perth market has deepened recently. Growth markets have vanished and there are now multiple suburbs classified as “danger” markets, with more likely to be added to the warning list if current sales patterns continue in coming quarters. 
Perth’s decline has been happening since the peak in early 2013 and the downturn has worsened since the beginning of 2016.
The number of dwelling sales in the WA market was above 16,000 per quarter in early 2013. Sales dropped below 15,000 per quarter in 2014 and below 13,000 in 2015. The market has dropped further in 2016, with around 8,300 sales in the March Quarter and fewer than 7,000 in the June Quarter. Sales rates are now well under half those of two years ago.
The suburb of Mt Pleasant in the Melville LGA has the kind of sales trend that sellers don’t want: sales totaling 62, 50, 42, 25 and 15 in the past five quarters. 
The suburb of Nollamara in the Stirling LGA has dropped from well above 100 per quarter to 55 in the March Quarter and 35 in the June Quarter. In nearby Yokine, the sales pattern has been 103, 95, 75, 74, 79, 51 and 38 (with vacancies at 5.3% in that postcode).
In Fremantle, the sales pattern since early 2014 has been 85, 61, 66, 60, 59, 47, 49, 45, 27 and 25. In Rivervale in the Belmont LGA, the sales pattern has been 101, 84, 100, 69, 78, 55, 81, 71, 74, 32 and 24. With a vacancy rate around 8%, the immediate future looks bleak.
The malaise has spread to all market sectors. Upmarket Mosman Park’s quarterly sales record is 74, 72, 76, 62, 51, 62, 47, 41, 30 and 25. In downmarket Gosnells, quarterly sales since early 2014 have been 153, 158, 134, 123, 103, 118, 109, 82, 75 and 53, so current sales are a third of the peak levels.
So what should investors do? Avoid Perth altogether? Wait until they read about recovery? Or become counter-cyclical buyers?
Most investors are herd animals who never take advantage of down markets. They jump into markets when they read there’s a boom under way, as so many did in Sydney over the past few years.
The really smart investors, and there were some, saw what was coming, bought before 2013 and got full benefit from the capital growth that followed. 
The switched-on ones who think and act counter-cyclically will see opportunities to buy bargains in Perth. Prices are down right across the metropolitan area so there’s no shortage of good opportunities, as well as a lack of competition from other punters.
High vacancy rates would deter many, because of difficulties finding tenants at acceptable rentals, but not everywhere has 5-6 percent vacancy rates. 
Investors just need to believe Perth has a future. And obviously it does, although it may not feel much like it at present. WA has been a nation-leading growth economy many times and will be so again in the future. Perth has led on population growth and property price escalation, and has had two notable up-cycles in the past 10-12 years. It will recover.
 
 Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Perth represents both danger and opportunity for property investors: Terry Ryder

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The Perth metropolitian council regions with the highest proportion of loss making resales over the quarter were: Perth (52.8%), Mosman Park (37.5%) and Cottesloe (33.3%), according to the latest CoreLogic Pain and Gain report. 
The report compares the most recent sale price to the previous sale price in order to determine whether the property sold at a gross profit or gross loss. 
Some 17.9% of resold houses and 30.2% of resold units across Perth over the June 2016 quarter were sold for less than the previous purchase price, with loss-making resales of houses at their highest level since September 1996 and unit losses at record highs.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20perth.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/pain%20and%20gain%20perth.jpg" alt="">
The Peppermint Grove council area recorded no resales at a loss over the quarter, while Nedlands (7.7%) and Bassendean (8.3%) were the other two regions with the lowest proportion of loss-making resales.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/perth%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/perth%20pain%20and%20gain%20chart.jpg" alt="">
Get the full report <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=56fe4d38-98f3-4f82-b763-e91283945def" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Perth CBD residential property sellers cop sale pain 50% of the time: CoreLogic

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Half of the properties featured on the Top Ten Nationwide Discounted Properties from SQM Research for this week are in Perth and the price of a Victorian Greyhound kennel has been reduced 33 percent since listing.
Louis Christopher, SQM research managing director said house and unit prices have been falling for some time in Perth, as have rents.
"Elsewhere, there are bargains," he said.
"The fully functioning Greyhound kennel in the small Victorian township of Tooradin is still on the market despite a 33 percent reduction in price, with no buyers emerging from NSW where greyhound owners are still coming to terms with the racing ban there.
"Properties in Western Australia still account for five out of the 10 on the list, as the mining downturn slowly erodes what remaining wealth there is there in property in that state.
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-28%20at%203.52.42%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 
<img src="/images/2016/09/28/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-28%20at%203.52.42%20PM.png" alt="">
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Perth property price decline continues: SQM Research

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The latest CoreLogic Pain &amp; Gain report had 20.1 percent of Perth homes resold at a loss, while in Darwin, 24.2 percent of homes resold at a loss; the highest proportion since December 2002.
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Across the remaining capitals, the proportion of loss-making resales was: Sydney 2.4 percent, Melbourne 4.4%, Brisbane 8.4%, Adelaide 10.6%, Hobart 10.8% and Canberra 9.6%. Across the regional markets, the proportion of loss-making resales increased in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Western Australia, and was unchanged in South Australia.
Across the individual areas, the proportion of resales at a loss were recorded at: 7.3% in regional NSW, 9.3% in regional Vic, 19.8% in regional Qld, 21.7% in regional SA, 33.8% in regional WA, 19.6% in regional Tas and 21.2% in regional NT.
The report uncovers the profits earned and the losses made from property sales over the June 2016 quarter, and reveals which locations have been the most valuable for investment.
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Based on the June quarter findings, 5.9% of capital city houses resold at a loss, up from 5.7% from the March 2016 quarter while units at 9.5% resold for less than the previous purchase price. Across regional housing markets, 12.2% of houses &amp; 19.9% of units resold over the June 2016 quarter transacted below previous purchase price.
Regional areas experienced the highest proportion of total resales at a loss since the three months to August 2015 for houses and the three months to February 2016 for units.
Capital Cities Losses &amp; Profits:
• $164,239,771 in losses from resales of capital city houses = $94,926 on average; • $87,017,927 in losses from resales of capital city units = $67,456 on average; • $9,953,211,125 realised for resale profit for capital city houses = $363,442 on average;  • Total resale profit for capital city units - $2,828,164,261 = $229,596 on average.
Regional Areas Losses &amp; Profits:
• $139,475,875 worth of house resold at a loss = $64,423 average loss • $68,199,797 units resold at a loss = $61,944 average loss • $2,400,837,922 in profits realised for houses = $154,773 on average • $475,731,130 in profit realised for units across regional areas = $107,680 on average.
CoreLogic researcher Cameron Kusher said while loss-making resales increased over the quarter, historically, most cities are still seeing quite a low instance of homes reselling at a loss.
"However, Perth and Darwin are the exceptions with the proportion of loss-making resales at, or close to historic highs.”
Around the country, the proportion of loss-making resales over the quarter increased across each capital city excluding Melbourne and Canberra.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Perth's loss taking property sellers at 20 percent: CoreLogic

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Como takes the equal top spot as Perth's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in houses with an expected increase of three percent over the next 12 months.
The current median price for Como currently sits at $732,500, according to APM, in their forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
An example would be a 3 bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-como-123624142" target="_blank">51 Alston Avenue</a> (below) that is currently on sale for $819,000, which is $86,500 above the median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/22/51%20Alston%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 3 bedroom house has recently been sold at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-como-122245562" target="_blank">24 Wooltana Street</a> (below) for $792,500, which is $60,000 above the median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/22/24%20Wooltana%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked East Cannington as equal best hotspot.
Suburb                   Postcode           Median price          12 month forecast
Como                     6152                $732,500                   3%
East Cannington      6107                $508,000                   3%
Lathlain                 6100                 $895,000                   2%
Rossmoyne            6148                 $1,170,000                 2%
Willetton                6155                 $734,500                   2%
Koondoola             6064                  $405,000                   2%
Yokine                   6060                  $615,000                   2%
Waterford             6152                   $1,095,000                 2%
Chidlow                6556                  $645,000                     1%
Coolbellup            6163                   $520,000                     1%
<a href="/images/2016/09/21/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-21%20at%2010.18.37%20am.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/21/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-21%20at%2010.18.37%20am.png" alt="">
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Como ranks as 2017 top Perth hotspot for investors

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Osborne Park takes the equal top spot as Perth's 2016/2017 hotspot for investing in units with an expected increase of two percent over the next 12 months.
The current median price for Osborne Park currently sits at $386,000, according to APM, in their forecast developed by APM senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.
An example would be a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-osborne+park-120113073" target="_blank">7/154 Edward Street</a> (above) that is currently on sale from $425,000, which is $39,000 above the median price.
<img src="/images/2016/09/22/7154%20Edward%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a two bedroom unit was recently sold at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-wa-osborne+park-119045595" target="_blank">6/67 McDonald Street</a> (below) for $392,000, which is $6,000 above the median price.
 <img src="/images/2016/09/22/Unit667%20McDonald%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The Smart Investor magazine, published by Fairfax Media, ranked Joondanna as equal best hotspot.
Suburb             Postcode               Median price             12 month forecast
Osborne Park    6017                     $386,000                        2%
Joondanna        6060                     $419,000                        2%
Burswood         6100                     $488,000                         1%
Bayswater        6053                     $385,000                         1%
Shoalwater       6169                     $290,000                         1%
Nedlands          6009                     $650,500                         1%
Hamilton Hill     6163                     $360,000                         1%
Willeton            6155                     $535,500                         1%
Tuart Hill           6060                    $310,000                          1%
Yokine               6060                    $417,500                          1%
 
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Low price growth but Osborne Park ranks atop 2017 Perth hotspots list

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Perth real estate agent and one of the favourites to win Richie's heart on The Bachelor is currently in a battle with her ex-fiancee on how to divide their property assets.
They currently have two properties in Nikki's home town of Northam, totalling just shy of $1 million.
The first property was bought in 2007, and cost the then couple $540,000.
It's a four bedroom, two bathroom home, which was leased in December 2015 through Nikki's real estate agency at $500 a week.
They then paid $406,000 in 2013 for a slightly smaller three bedroom, two bathroom home.
It was too listed for rent at Howlett and Lawrence First National for $435 per week in December 2015.
Nikki has owned a home independently since 2008, when she paid $350,000.
The four bedroom, two bathroom home has been leased consistently for $390 a week since June last year.
If Gogan is to be the last one standing with a rose, she's likely to head to Strahan's impressive portfolio.
He bought his Cloverdale for in 2008 for $420,000 and subdivided the vast 1040 sqm parcel.
He spent around $300,000 on building a new home at the rear, with local agents suggesting the two properties are now worth around $1 million in total.
Picture courtesy of Network Ten.
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Bachelor favourite Nikki Gogan battles with ex-fiance over property portfolio

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The median sale price in Perth has decreased from $550,000 in July 2015 to $530,000 at present, hence the lazy half million dollars goes a little bit further than it did 12 months earlier, say valuation firm Herron Todd White in their July 2016 residential market report.
"Given the subdued nature of the residential property market, there are many areas with good growth prospects where you will get change out of your half a million, or enter into highly desirable suburbs that were previously out of reach," says the report.
From an investment point of view, the suburbs of Armadale and Kelmscott stand out. These areas saw a flurry of demand from investors several years ago and rents remain quite solid. The volume of new product under development has declined significantly, while the population of the area continues to grow due to being more affordable than other areas closer to the CBD. Hence a villa with three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms which could have cost $330,000 three years ago, is now able to be purchased well below $300,000, while still achieving a rental of $330 per week.
For those of you who are good with a hammer and a paint brush, areas such as Greenwood and Kingsley in the northern suburbs are ripe for the picking. In these areas just 18 kilometres from the Perth CBD, the lazy half a million will snap up a 735 square metre block with a 1970s 3-bedroom house thrown in for good measure, while just a good stone’s throw away, 424 square metre blocks are currently being advertised for $429,000. The area is very popular with families, has arterial transport links on both sides and is only five kilometres from the coast.
Similarly, suburbs such as Ferndale, located just 14 kilometres from the Perth CBD offer 700 square metre allotments with circa 1970 built dwellings for well under $500,000; in fact the median sale price has decreased by some 6.8% over the previous 12 months to $468,000.
Several prominent schools are located in nearby suburbs and the Carousel Shopping Centre in neighbouring Cannington is set to undertake an expansion of some 50,000 square metres of retail space to claim the crown of the largest shopping centre complex in Perth.
In the apartment market, things are a little harder to interpret. Developer asking prices are often very different to contract prices and many re-sales are occurring well below purchase prices from two or three years ago. However, this may provide an opportunity for first home buyers to find well priced, well located apartments that have been overlooked by a somewhat dismissive or lacklustre investor-driven sector. Many opportunities are available in the Perth CBD, with 2-bedroom 2-bathroom apartments available well below $500,000 and one-bedroom apartments available well below $400,000.
"When we discussed where we would spend our lazy half a million twelve months ago, we decided the best bet was to sit on our hands and wait for the market to adjust to the rapidly declining confidence in the residential market.
"We are somewhat happy to say that our advice was sound and comparatively the lazy half a million goes a fair bit further today. We consider that the market is nearing the bottom end of the cycle and the challenge now is whether to try to pick the bottom of the market or simply to take advantage of the incredibly competitive cost of borrowing currently available," write HTW.
"Either way, for the astute investor, we think it’s getting very close to decision making time.
"Will the market continue to trend south or are the positives starting to outweigh the negatives? The big unknown at the time of writing is the market reaction to Brexit and how such a proposal will affect local consumer confidence. I guess we’ll be able to judge that in 2017!"
Property Observer found a recently sold three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-armadale-122241722" target="_blank">3/40 Dale Road, Armadale, WA 6112</a> for $279,000.
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

With falling median property prices, Perth offers more bang for buck for $500,000: HTW 

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An award-winning Perth home has been sold for $3.1 million.
The 1012 square metre property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-dalkeith-122149290" target="_blank">42 Circe Circle, Dalkeith</a> was sold by TM Residential agent Tonia McNeilly. 
Renovated in 2008 by award winning builders, Mulberry Homes, the five-bedroom, three-bathroom house was marketed as a family home. 
The house was a finalist for renovation of the year in 2009 and was featured in WA’s Best Homes 2009 magazine. 
The median price for a house in Dalkeith is $2.355 million according to CoreLogic RP Data. 
 
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