Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Joel Robinson

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

A local downsizer has splashed $6.5 million on a penthouse in Perifa's Alex &amp; Willow development in Crows Nest. 
&nbsp; 
The purchaser sold their long-held family home in the area before embarking on a six-month search for the right apartment. After inspecting a range of options across the Lower North Shore, the buyer returned to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alex-willow-crows-nest-82-90-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Alex &amp; Willow</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The buyer profile reflects the project’s broader purchaser mix. <a>Alex &amp; Willow</a> has attracted predominantly local downsizers looking to transition from larger homes without compromising on space or quality, alongside a smaller cohort of upsizers and investors drawn to the project’s location and design credentials. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone sale comes as the project, developed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">Perifa</a>&nbsp;and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile-made-construction">Versatile Construction</a>, both part of Versatile Group, reaches 60 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=371325] 
&nbsp; 
Eddie Mansour, Managing Partner of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects">Ray White Projects</a>, said the result demonstrates not only a headline price but also depth of demand. 
&nbsp; 
“This is an exceptional outcome and a clear reflection of sustained buyer demand for premium, well-located downsizer product,” Mansour said.

“We’re seeing a consistent pattern of local homeowners selling family residences and reinvesting into high-quality apartments that allow them to remain within their community. Alex &amp; Willow has resonated strongly with this group because it offers genuine scale, thoughtful design and immediate proximity to the village.” 
&nbsp; 
The sale reflects a broader and consistent trend of local downsizers actively seeking high-quality, low-maintenance residences close to established village centres. Agents report that demand for this product type has remained resilient, particularly where developments offer a rare combination of scale, design quality and walkable amenity. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Fabrizio Perilli, Managing Director of Perifa and Versatile Group, said the sale marks a defining moment for the project. 
&nbsp; 
“The penthouse sale is a strong endorsement of the quality we have delivered, alongside our partners, and the clear demand from local downsizers for premium, boutique residences in this location,” Perilli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Most importantly, we’re proud to see the Alex &amp; Willow community beginning to take shape. As we move closer to completion, we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and seeing the project come to life.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=338516] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nettletontribe">Nettleton Tribe</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>, Alex &amp; Willow is a boutique collection of generously sized two- and three-bedroom residences in the heart of Crows Nest village.&nbsp;

Completion is slated for early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6680]

Alex & Willow, Crows Nest penthouse sells off the plan for $6.5 million

Fresh from launching the first stage of its Wollongong precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, builder-developer Urban Property Group has unveiled plans for the next phase of the masterplanned community.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway is a State Significant Development Application for a further 657 homes on the prominent gateway site opposite Beaton Park.

The proposal comprises three buildings, including two build-to-sell towers rising 25 and 30 storeys, delivering 391 apartments, alongside a 12-storey co-living building with 266 residences, making it one of the largest co-living proposals currently planned in regional New South Wales.

Of the apartments proposed in the build-to-sell towers, the majority, 310, are two-bedroom dwellings. The balance comprises 44 one-bedroom apartments and 37 three-bedroom residences. Apartment sizes range from around 50 sqm for one-bedroom homes to approximately 90 sqm for three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19347059-1612-41a0-9c74-b86a657237f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%2010.02.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sWXnaCcA.cIC6N8YT1dg5pJ2e1V3Z6z7" />

The submission says the proposal has evolved significantly from its original Housing Delivery Authority application following extensive consultation with the State Design Review Panel and Wollongong City Council.

The final scheme has been designed to align with the emerging vision for the Flinders Street Precinct, an area identified by Council as a future high-density mixed-use neighbourhood capable of accommodating substantial housing growth close to transport, employment and community infrastructure.

According to the design report prepared by COX Architecture, the development aims to "deliver a built outcome consistent with the future character of the Wollongong CBD while responding to the site's unique constraints and opportunities."

"Our vision for the next phase of the site evolution in Wollongong is grounded in three design pillars that guide the design response: place, natural environment and celebration," COX said.

"Inspired by its surroundings and grounded in the stories of place on Wodi Wodi Country, the design proposal acknowledges the established character of its setting while creating a unique and timeless identity that sits harmoniously within it.

"The design proposal responds to its specific site conditions, acknowledging the vegetation, climate, wind conditions and solar access of the site."

The architecture responds directly to the site's position between Wollongong's urban core and its natural landscape setting.

COX identified views towards Mount Keira and the Illawarra Escarpment as defining features of the site, while the upper levels of the towers will also capture expansive views across the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.

The design team has positioned the tallest buildings closer to the rail corridor, where overshadowing impacts can be better managed while establishing a landmark built form on the northern approach into the city.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79580d5b-500c-4ebf-9629-797146a4a694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%209.51.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WbTB1EKSG.KDfsfz0F3wp1QVa2oCMGR5" />

Urban Property Group secured the 11,000 sqm Smith Street site in 2022 and has since progressed plans for the broader Keira Place precinct.

Construction recently commenced on the first stage of Keira Place, which will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, alongside activated ground-floor retail and commercial space.

Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the commencement of construction marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/groundbreaking-marks-start-of-construction-at-keira-place-in-wollongong-cbd">Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place

Property market

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Residential property listings nationwide rose 3.4 percent in February from January driven mainly by a 15.1 percent rise in Sydney listings, according to new figures from SQM Research.
Listings in Hobart, however fell 0.7 percent month on month. Sydney listings had a year-on-year rise of 18 percent and Melbourne recorded  a yearly fall of 5.6%.
<a href="/images/2016/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-01%20at%204.21.56%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said listings normally rise at this time of year as the market fully opens up from the summer hiatus. The rise from Sydney however is well above normal seasonality and well above levels recorded this time last year.
"This is evidence of a slower Sydney market where it is taking longer to sell," he said.
"On the other hand, recording a decline at this time of year, as what has happened with Hobart, is also abnormal and is suggestive of a strong market made up of many buyers and fewer sellers.
 "Year-on-year results indicate that residential property listings are up for most capital cities. 
"Notably, property listings in Sydney and Darwin are considerably higher than this time last year (February 2015), with residential property listings climbing from 21,769 to 25,698. Darwin also experienced excessive yearly growth with sale listings up 12% based on a total 2,050 listings. These figures indicate that the number of property sellers in both residential markets has increased when adjusting for seasonality."
<a href="/images/2016/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-01%20at%204.22.08%20PM.png" target="_blank"> Click to enlarge</a>
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mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

Surge recorded for national residential property listings: SQM

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NSW Central Coast was at the top of the residential property clock for houses in valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest report - a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are as at February 2016 - and a slowdown might be expected.
Although the mechanics of the Central Coast region are distinct, the local happenings are influenced by markets in neighbouring regions.
Sydney is generally considered as the central hub with a direct effect on all other regional markets within its radius.
The Central Coast’s strong market in 2015 was undoubtedly underpinned by Sydney-based buyers finding themselves unable to compete in the Sydney market. This resulted in better than average rises in property values across the region as well publicised.
This link is, therefore, proven, say HTW.
The predictions for 2016 are well publicised, with some analysts expecting ongoing increases in property values, others saying the market will plateau while some predict falling market values.
Each scenario has the potential to emerge and what will eventuate will most likely be the result of government fiscal policy, general economic forces, lending practices and whatever the media tells us.
After such a strong year for the period leading to October, the year ended with a bit of a whimper for the region’s market. Sales volumes fell somewhat and there were no continuing increases in values.
Some points of note though:
• The sudden departure of Asian buyers having a noticeable effect on sale volumes;
• Purchase prices being nearer and sometimes below indicated asking prices as opposed to new
records being set every other day;
• Buyers being a little more selective and acting with less urgency;
• The much hyped talk of new residential unit developments in Gosford and other regionally
significant developments falling away on whispers that presales and interest were less than expected
and project finance was difficult to secure;
• Increased positivity in the retail sector that had been missing for the past several end of year
periods.
So, what to expect for the NSW Central Coast region for 2016?
If previous property cycles are to be repeated, then the region’s market is expected to slow as one property cycle ends and another starts.
The market has been at its peak for some time and a slowdown may be round the corner, but the peak lasted longer than expectations, according to HTW.
This is the main difference between this cycle which has been building slowly by comparison over several years and is more controlled as opposed to previous cycles which experienced faster rises over shorter periods, the report said.
According to HTW, while some of the region’s 160 suburbs will see a fall in values this year, most will continue to trade close to or near current values, but with reduced volumes.
Areas likely to see a drop in value will be those where values increased well beyond comfortable levels. This include Umina Beach and Woy Woy where values have risen extraordinarily (between 47% and 49% over the past three years) to the point where they are now in direct competition with some Sydney suburbs and a wane in demand seems inevitable as buyers switch their attention to other suburbs.
In Wyoming and Kariong values have risen more than 10% over a 12-month period and need time to settle down again.
Something for buyers to be wary of is the unit market in Gosford where close to 700 units have been approved recently. Many sites are still in the pre-construction phase and if too many start and finish in a short time frame, then there might be an oversupply situation.
The median house price in Gosford was $570,000 while for units it was $365,000, according to RP Data.
 A recent apartment Property Observer found on the market on realestate.com.au was Unit 5 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-gosford-121910506" target="_blank">75/77 Faunce Street</a> (above) for $435,000.
Another sign that confidence has returned to the market is the presence of buyers at the higher end of the region’s value range. Absent for some time, some say the return of these buyers provides a restorative factor in the market, add HTW.
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

NSW Central Coast may see slowdown after reaching peak of property clock: HTW

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The January market has been strong in the Illawarra district despite some hesitation on the longevity by both agents and buyers, according to Herron Todd White.
Herron Todd White's Month in Review for February said local real estate agents are in general bullish that they can see the results in 2015 replicated in 2016. However while many 12 months ago said that the past two years was simply the catch up that was needed, it is plain that the meteoric rise in prices cannot continue.
"Some northern beaches agents in the Wollongong area are telling us that where they used to have several people vying for properties at auction, they are now struggling to get a pair," the report noted.
"We saw many auctions postponed or vendor bids come into play right at the end of 2015. In our view there will not be a major drop in prices as there will still be some strength in the local market due to one thing – a continued low interest rate environment.
"Inner northern suburbs up to Bulli offer the best value for money in our opinion and postcodes such as 2519, 2517 and 2518 rate highly. Look for flat blocks and beach and train proximity. Sea views are becoming less valued as closeness to shops, schools and transport take over. 
In the southern areas, we look to Shellharbour and Kiama as our picks. Shellharbour’s Marina is well underway and will really boost this seaside village, particularly now that the new train station has opened at Shellharbour Junction. Kiama is a well preserved seaside location with relatively low rise development and that special village feel. 
"An increased supply of new units in the CBD, North Wollongong and other inner north areas should be viewed with caution in regard to stability of price levels in this sector."
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

2016 sees Illawarra market starting strongly: HTW

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Dwelling rental growth is now at its lowest level on record according to the first CoreLogic RP Data Rental Review for 2016. Currently the median rent rate is recorded at $443 across the combined capital cities. 
CoreLogic RP Data has tracked annual rental changes since 1996 and over that time, rental growth conditions have never been weaker. At the same time last year rental rates had increased by 1.7 percent highlighting that the slowdown in rental conditions has been sharp over the year.
A combination of factors is affecting the national rental market. Among these is a higher level or rental stock resulting in greater options for renters, a slowdown in population growth, higher than normal investment activity and stagnant wage growth. 
More rental stock at a time when demand is easing due to slowing population growth, and little wage growth for renters, has resulted in flat rental growth conditions over the past year. 
For renters there is a lot more accommodation options in the market while simultaneously, landlords are now required to respond to a more competitive environment which, in many cases means keeping rents steady or in some areas reducing rents in order to keep a tenant. 
CoreLogic RP Data analysis shows rents across the combined capitals rose by 0.2 percent in January 2016. The only capital cities to see a rise in rents over the month were Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra, elsewhere rents dropped. 
Across the individual capital cities, over the past year: 
Rents increased in Sydney (+1.4 percent), Melbourne (+2.1 percent), Hobart (+0.1 percent) and Canberra (+1.8 percent). 
Rental rates have fallen over the past year in Brisbane (-0.7 percent), Adelaide (-0.4 percent), Perth (-8.6 percent) and Darwin (-13.4 percent). 
Across every capital city except Canberra the rate of annual rental growth or decline is currently lower than it was a year ago indicating that the weaker rental market conditions are prevalent across most capital cities. 
Rental Market Update: 
Weekly rents across the combined capital city measure increased 0.2 percent over the month of January however they were unchanged over the past 12 months. 
Currently, combined capital city rental rates are $487/week for houses and $465/week for units. 
It is possible that over the coming months, rental rates could begin to fall on an annual basis due to additional new rental supply entering the market.
 
Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Softest conditions on record for capital city rental markets: Cameron Kusher

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Chinese investment in Australia’s real estate market has not declined despite fears that the RMB’s devaluation and stock market crisis there would impact outbound investment, and the trend is expected to continue, according to a Knight Frank report.
Chinese investor — big and small — appetite for overseas real estate was also supported by the growing need for diversification from the Chinese market, says the report. 
The China-Australia Free Trade Agreement, the Qualified Domestic Individual Investor or QDII schemes are expected to drive more Chinese investment in the Australian property market, says Knight Frank’s second global China Outbound Real Estate Investment report: New Waves, New Destinations. 
Sydney and Melbourne alone attracted a total of US$3.8 billion in Chinese investment in 2015, next only to Manhattan, New York at US$5.78 billion. 
<a href="/images/2016/02/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-24%20at%208.44.56%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-24%20at%208.44.56%20AM.png" alt="">
Total Chinese outbound capital doubled to nearly US$30 billion in 2015 from 2014, according to the report.
“Investor interest in Australia, particularly in Sydney, has not diminished as many had feared – even after the latest RMB devaluation and with demand for natural resources weakening,” said Knight Frank’s head of Research &amp; Consulting, Australia, Matt Whitby.
“Australian prices, coupled with strong Chinese buying power and continued weakness in the Australian dollar, has continued to attract capital inflow.”
Chinese investment into the Sydney and Melbourne markets skyrocketed in the from 2010-2015 period, added Knight Frank’s head of Asian Markets, Australia, Dominic Ong. 
“Given the level of growth that we have experienced over the past five years, we anticipate that the outflow of Chinese investment into Australia will remain at steady and strong levels but it will be difficult to beat 2015,” he said. 
CIC’s purchase of the Investa Portfolio for $2.45 billion was the biggest deal that boosted the figure last year, he added.
According to Ong, Chinese investment activity will be concentrated on development sites and office investments, focusing on prime product in the Sydney and Melbourne markets. 
He predicted some growth in 2016, but potentially not levels as high as Australia has seen in the last few years.
“I expect demand will be strong for the next three to five years, but what might affect the transaction volume will be supply – the lack of available prime stock available in the best locations,” said Ong.
 
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Chinese to continue investing in Australian real estate in 2016: Knight Frank

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This time every year, with the close of February approaching, we all dream of an endless summer. But according to our agents, the sun hasn’t set on the marketplace, and won’t for some time.
Spring and summer have traditionally been the major selling seasons for vendors, but conditions could turn that tradition on its head in the coming cooler months, especially with the recent strength seen in auction markets in both Sydney and Melbourne.
The numbers of people turning out to open-for-inspections have been very strong since the holidays wound up. Many buyers have been enticed by a slowdown in price growth across certain markets.
It is this very demand combined with positive economic fundamentals that will keep real estate markets humming along in 2016.
However, overzealous commentators trying to capture media headlines and mountains of data risk overloading and confusing consumers. It is, therefore, important that buyers and sellers not be swept up in the short-term outlook.
Ensure that you do what is right for your situation and your own investment strategy rather than trying to second-guess the timing of the market.
The best data to keep an eye on is that from your own street and neighbourhood.
Strong employment figures combined with the share market volatility and already historic low-interest rates should negate any “gloom and doom” talk directed towards property markets.
While buyers are out and about, listings are tightening in parts of the country. 
We can see this in Melbourne where a lack of stock has resulted in price growth of 2.5 percent In January, outperforming even Sydney (+0.5%). The figures from CoreLogic RP Data, released last week, could well indicate both these markets are bouncing back following a slow down at the end of last year. 
Overall the economic outlook remains positive with retail spending increasing and cheaper petrol adding more money to family budgets.
Homeowners have income to pay mortgages, interest rates are still low and affordability is improving. Some of these savings will be used by people to try and pay down their debt quicker. 
Homes will spend longer on the market as we return to more normal conditions but it doesn’t necessarily mean sellers will be disappointed with the final result. 
In fact, it could prove to be similar to what I have seen from our Harveys real estate business in New Zealand where prices in Auckland skyrocketed over the past 12 months, driven by migration. Prices there are now starting to moderate to a more sustainable level, as buyer demand turns to more affordable regional markets.
Grant Harrod is chief executive officer of LJ Hooker and can be contacted <a href="https://about.ljhooker.com.au/leadership-team" target="_blank">here</a>.
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The sun hasn’t set on the marketplace: LJ Hooker's Grant Harrod

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When I keep thinking about the possible ramifications with Bill Shorten’s tax reform announcements I shake my head with utter disbelief – this is just plain dumb policy. Since the mining boom collapsed property has been a major shining light for the Australian economy.
By announcing that from July 1, 2017 negative gearing will only apply to new properties, the argument that 93 per cent of negative gearing goes to existing properties is a flawed one. Many suburbs see very few new developments each year so it’s those existing properties that add equilibrium to keeping rents competitive.
It should also be noted that it was not mentioned that with the new properties that there would be no adjustments to the previous Labor policy in 2008 that permits 100 per cent of off – the – plan purchases to foreign owners. What we are seeing today is new developments being offered off shore and many properties never hit the local market with many of these properties being land banked. It should also be legislated that all off – the – plan foreign purchases must be rented out with all properties that are currently land banked to be issued with a divestment order unless they are rented out.
What I believe will happen with negative gearing is that we will see a cap put on the number of properties that are allowed to be claimed as well as a limit to annual tax deductions that can be claimed. In the meantime one could expect property investors to be front and centre in the markets prior to the upcoming Budget announcements.
It is becoming pretty obvious that it will be some time before the Australian budget gets itself back in the black – more particularly now that an increase to the GST has been formally pooh – poohed.
Instead of looking at increasing taxes maybe the federal Government would be better suited to looking at what it can do with its massive property portfolio to pay down more debt. The Australian Government is the largest property landlord in Australia with property holdings across the country.
HMAS Penguin for example which occupies some prime Middle Harbour front land is just one of thousands of examples of land that could be put to much better economic use. Now before you start yelling and screaming all I am saying is that the federal Government should be taking a closer look at its property portfolio with a view to possibly cashing – in. The NSW Government has been active over the past few years selling off Housing Commission properties that has eventuated in quadrupling budget expectations on the likely market values.
Australia’s population hit 24,000,000 this week so it makes plenty of sense to start a conversation on how our cities are going to cope with this rapid expansion. Public golf courses will come under huge pressure to remain with their respective land values going through the roof. Although before we see those being developed the federal Government has thousands and thousands of hectares of vacant land sitting idle.
No doubt some will say it’s time to put Australia’s land resources to better and more practical use and many will say it should remain as it is. One would have to admit that it would be an interesting debate. The Australian population clock now adds one extra person to our population every one minute and 31 seconds. On top of that we also have record net overseas migration. Our population growth is now higher than that of Indonesia.
The reality is that we need to start developing more land, so that conversation should start with Australia’s biggest landlord.
No time like the present to start this long overdue conversation.
<h5>MOSMAN – 2088</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 79
• Number of houses on the market last week – 53
• Number of houses on the market this week – 59
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 52
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 46 • Number of apartments on the market this week – 44
<h5>CREMORNE – 2090</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 8
• Number of houses on the market last week – 17
• Number of houses on the market this week – 18
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 19
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 17
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 22
<h5>NEUTRAL BAY – 2089</h5>
• Number of houses on the market this time last year – 5
• Number of houses on the market last week – 9
•Number of houses on the market this week – 7
• Number of apartments on the market this time last year– 38
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 27
*Number of apartments on the market this week – 28
 
 ROBERT SIMEON is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985.  He has also been writing real estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. 
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Property is the gift that keeps on giving: Robert Simeon

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Melbourne buyers agent Secret Agent has noted the local market is slowly starting come alive, although in which direction is not as yet clear due to early sample data.
According to the latest Secret Agent report, market conditions in Prahran, Richmond and South Melbourne were on the up late 2015 and so far in 2016 with Brunswick, Brunswick East, Middle Park, North Melbourne and South Yarra markets going bust. 
Secret Agent said these suburbs had been performing strongly throughout the middle of 2015 and were due for a quieter period.
"The townhouse market has also noticed a softening across the board, while houses performed best at 3% over the rolling quarter. Houses have been the standout performer over the past few years as their inbuilt scarcity of land and building help this market grow," Secret Agent said.
"Apartments have continued to fall in value with Docklands, East Melbourne, Hawthorn, Melbourne CBD, North Melbourne and Southbank losing value. What may have softened the blow is the decreasing stock of apartments on the market. With stock inventory likely to grow again we should expect further downward pressure on apartment pricing in the early parts of this year.
"The rental market continues to stratify with strong demand and price growth for stand alone homes near places of work and rich in lifestyle options. New apartments are finding it harder to establish tenancies with the continued supply of new dwellings. The falling rent among these apartments gives prospective tenants plenty of choice and this is a concern for recent investors."
The report warned of property valuations which help determine financing for purchasers, with Secret Agent noting a a pull back in some values that valuers are placing on real estate after auction sales which might ripple into the market over the coming few months as caution continues to creep in, stalling growth.
Quarterly Scorecard
OCT, NOV, DEC 2015 &amp; JAN 2016
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%201.13.17%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%201.13.17%20PM.png" alt="" width="823" height="444">
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%201.15.48%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%201.15.48%20PM.png" alt="">
 
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Melbourne's Brunswick, South Yarra bust, Prahran, Richmond show momentum: Secret Agent

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GUEST OBSERVER
2016 will be the year the residential property cycle starts to ease, with growth in both pricing and development set to trend lower. 
As the residential property cycle recedes, the focus will shift to commercial property. Although investment activity is already running at a high level, interest in commercial property is set to intensify further in the year ahead. 
With pricing likely to be pushed one notch higher to reach record levels, emphasis will turn to increasing returns through improvements in rental levels or a property’s net operating income. Each commercial property sector and market offers very different growth potential.
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.23.40%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.23.40%20PM.png" alt="">
Residential development set to ease 
Recent years have seen an unprecedented rise in residential development, driven by high rise and high density apartments. The extraordinary growth across the industry reflects a surge in investor activity and a significant shift to apartment living in all of Australia’s major cities. 
However, apartment development is likely to slow this year ― following a trend that emerged in the middle of 2015, when approvals started to drop. A decline in approvalsasshown in Chart 1, is typically a signal the commencement of new construction activity will ease within six to 12 months. 
With fewer approvals, commencements have indeed tapered, although they’ve plateaued at a high level. This is likely to see buoyant construction activity continue into 2017.
During the next phase of this unwinding process, as projects are completed, fewer will commence to take their place. The overall effect will be an eventual reduction in development activity which is likely to then continue at a more sustainable level.
Ultimately, this means some of the developments approved over the last few years will not proceed in this cycle. Owners may choose to sell those sites, providing an opportunity for others to develop uses more aligned to the changing demand-side conditions of 2016.
Brisbane and Melbourne to lead site sales
The markets which have pushed hardest in apartment approval and development over the last few years are most likely to witness site sales in 2016. Brisbane and Melbourne stand out as the cities where developers are most likely to sell sites, as markets with sufficient demand for alternative uses in both the short and long term.
Although the Australian economy is forecast to grow below trend in 2016, underlying demand conditions in some sectors are sufficient to support alternative inner-city uses provided for in new development outlined in Chart 2.
Tourism-related activity is growing on the back of the lower value of the Australian dollar and high growth in tourist arrivals from Asia, particularly China. This is leading to demand for more tourist accommodation to cater for various consumer markets.
Similarly, demand for education is enjoying steady growth, particularly for higher education from international students. Purpose-built student accommodation is considered a pre-cursor to provide for this demand. 
The easing back of the apartment development sector could be the opportunity student accommodation providers need ― enabling them to secure their desired sites in strong locations at more reasonable prices. 
Other uses may underpin development or refurbishment of existing buildings on sites previously earmarked for residential. These include boutique retail, office, medical, child care, service industrial, car parking or mixed use.
Local or State Governments may also see an opportunity in 2016 to buy sites to provide for public uses, such as schools, medical or transport-related, to better serve the large and fast-growing high density residential communities of these inner-city locations.
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.24.59%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.24.59%20PM.png" alt="">
Alternatively, existing developer-owners in these areas may look to purchase sites to consolidate properties and plan for projects in the next residential development cycle
Turning to investment
Beyond the likely shake-out in the residential development sector, interest in commercial property as an investment is expected to continue at a high level in 2016.
As uncertainty grows in global financial markets, more investors are driven to purchase quality commercial property. The start of 2016 has already been marked by volatility in markets around the world, including Australia.
With increased investment activity over the last few years, pricing has been pushed to an all-time high, across all price points. However, although prices are high, interest rates remain low making it attractive to buy quality real estate at current prices.
However, its also important at this point of the cycle to take into consideration factors which create a high quality commercial property asset, in both the short and long-term. These include:
•Strength of location for the use(s);
•Prospect of re-letting in the case of a vacancy;
•Strength of the tenant as a leasing covenant;
•Length and terms of the lease;
•Level of the rent relative to the prevailing market;
•Prospects for rent or other property income increases;
•Physical condition of the property and the need for any capital expenditure;
•Redevelopment potential;
•Land use zoning; and
•Any building operating costs which cannot be passed onto the tenant
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.26.58%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.26.58%20PM.png" alt="">
Leasing demand holds strong
Purchasing commercial investment property at a high price places greater emphasis on the ability to increase income from the property and improve future returns.
The prospect for property income growth is driven by the strength of both leasing demand for a property and its location, as well as the number of available suitable properties competing for tenant.
In 2016, the strength of leasing demand for commercial property is likely to be highest in Sydney and Melbourne. In these two cities, growth in population, employment and the economy generally is leading the country and providing the best short-term conditions to reduce market vacancy and increase rents or other property income. 
New opportunities in the mining capitals
A significant trend in 2016 will be investors turning back to consider commercial property in Perth and Brisbane. Although these two markets have been adversely impacted by the restructure of their economies as the mining sector winds back, it seems the downturn phase of this restructure is largely over.
Looking ahead, recovery is the next phase for the Western Australian and Queensland economies and their commercial property markets. This may take some years, but it looks like the worst is over –and both Perth and Brisbane are likely to enjoy an increase in investment interest and activity over the next few years.
<a href="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.28.10%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%204.28.10%20PM.png" alt="">
Expansion into growing markets 
Higher investment yields can be found in Adelaide and Canberra commercial property and this started to stimulate investment activity in both markets in 2015. We expect this activity to increase in 2016 as relatively higher yields will continue to be found in these markets, compared to those in larger cities.
This is also in the context of downward pressure on yields being maintained across Australian commercial property, particularly for quality assets.
There will also be opportunities to invest in commercial property in regional Australia in 2016. However the outlook in these locations varies considerably and is tied to local economic and property drivers as well as being very sensitive to tenant competition.
Those factors which contribute to a quality asset, as outlined on page 2, need to be very carefully considered and applied in smaller markets, as the level of underlying tenant demand is lower and the economies of these cities continue to be heavily impacted by industry restructure.
What does it mean for investors? 
While 2016 is expected to be a volatile year and one underpinned by an acceleration of change to property drivers, there is still plenty of opportunity to engage with the market.
The easing in high density apartment development is likely to see an increase in the sale of sites once earmarked for residential projects. These sites may provide the opportunity to offer uses to service the market created by a fast increasing population in these new high density suburbs. Ideally, shorter-term uses in existing buildings may provide the option for more intensive development in the future, when the residential development cycle strengthens once again.
In the meantime, the popularity of commercial property as an investment is set to increase further in 2016, amidst volatility of global and local financial markets. 
The challenge will be buying the right property at the right price and working to improve income returns into the short to medium-term. While the larger cities offer greater short-term possibilities in this regard, buyers need to be selective elsewhere, as the timing around improvement in the fundamentals is less clear.
 
Kevin Stanley is head of property strategy and research, Corporate Financial Services, <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/" target="_blank">Commonwealth Bank</a>.
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2016 the year the residential property cycle starts to ease: Kevin Stanley

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The top sale of the week was a five bedroom Clontarf family home, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
The property, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/15-moore-street-clontarf-nsw-2093-2012513938" target="_blank">15 Moore Street, Clontarf, NSW</a>, sold for $4,100,000 through Guildea Residential Seaforth. 
 
TOP TEN
15 Moore Street, Clontarf, NSW, 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house, $4,100,000 Guildea Residential Seaforth
6/88 Beach Street, Coogee, NSW, 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car unit $3,825,000 McGrath Estate Agents
29 Albion Road, Box Hill, Vic 6 bed, 3 bath, 5 car house $3,800,000 Ray White Blackburn
30 Ponsonby Parade, Seaforth, NSW 5 bed, 3 bath, 2 car house $3,700,000 McGrath Estate Agents
50 Nelson Road, Lindfield, NSW 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,630,000 Chadwick Real Estate Killara
1604/81 Macleay Street, Potts Point, NSW, 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car unit $3,400,000 Laing Real Estate Elizabeth Bay
10 Whistler Avenue, Unley Park, SA 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car house $3,175,000 Harcourts Platinum 
72 Cascade Street, Paddington, NSW 4 bed, 2 bath, 1 car house $3,000,000 Phillips Pantzer Donnelley
247 Edgecliff Road, Woollahra, NSW 4 bed, 3 bath, 1 car house $2,975,000 Phillips Pantzer Donnelley 
10/50 Muston Street, Mosman, NSW 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car unit $2,850,000 Marriott Lane Real Estate Crows Nest
 
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