Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

Rockhampton

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<div>The overall market in the Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast area has seen positive improvement throughout 2020, despite the ongoing COVID situation, however activity in the prestige property market, priced over $1 million in the Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast area, has seen a decline in overall sales numbers compared to 2019, according to the November report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
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HTW found that this sector of the market tends to be sporadic with only two residential sales above $1 million in Rockhampton and three sales on the Capricorn Coast in 2020. </div>
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<div>Properties in the Rockhampton prestige market are generally in the older areas of Rockhampton consisting of renovated Queenslanders on good sized allotments that generally have extensive ancillary improvements. This was evident in the highest sale for 2020, a property in Queen Street, The Range consisting of a fully renovated, two-storey Queenslander with five bedrooms, three bathrooms and two-car garage.
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<div>Further improved with an inground pool, half-court basketball court and extensively landscaped, the property sold for just over $1.5 million. The only other sale in Rockhampton was also a renovated Queenslander also on The Range for $1.1 million.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The Capricorn Coast has also seen limited sales numbers of prestige property in 2020. The highest sale was a very well presented beach front house for just under $2.2 million. The property features a semi-modern home that had been fully renovated and extended to provide five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a single lock-up garage. The property was further improved with an inground pool, extensive landscaping and solar panels and has direct beach access with sweeping ocean views. </div>
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<div>The two other prestige sales on the Capricorn Coast were for larger modern homes in elevated positions that provided strong ocean views. </div>
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<div>"Listings of prestige homes in Rockhampton are currently extremely limited. One property going to auction in November is 265 Archer Street, The Range (pictured in title). The property is unique in this suburb due to it being a modern dwelling constructed in the past five years as opposed to the older style homes in the area. The house provides modern five-bedroom, four-bathroom accommodation with a two-car garage. Given the location and age of the dwelling, interest is expected to be strong," Cara Pincombe, HTW Property Valuer said. </div>
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<div>"Buyers looking to enter the prestige market generally have more options available on the Capricorn Coast, with listing numbers being strong in this price bracket. Buyers have the options of either beach front homes or homes in elevated positions providing good ocean views."</div>
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<div>"One beach front home currently listed is 24 Rosslyn Street, Rosslyn for just under $1.8 million. The property features a semi-modern, renovated dwelling with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a two-car garage on a 1722 square metre allotment. The home has a pool, detached shed, ocean views and direct beach access."</div>
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<div>"Coming into the warmer months, the coastal listings may become more popular," Cara Pincombe concluded.</div>
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Rockhampton prestige market saw a minor pandemic induced decline: HTW

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Over the past month, residential property in the Rockhampton region (including the Capricorn Coast) has continued to tick over, with properties still being listed and sold despite the global pandemic, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes there has been no evidence to date of a decline in values, in fact, some sectors of the market are continuing to improve slightly (i.e. modern, well presented homes on the Capricorn Coast).
"Regionally, we have been fortunate to continue with a very small number of COVID-19 cases which, combined with the recent easing of restrictions, is likely to support this trend to continue should the number of cases remain low in our region," the valuation firm said. 
Over the past 12 to 18 months in particular, there has been a notable increase in renovation projects in a small sector of the Rockhampton market. 
Generally, small pockets of South Rockhampton, such as The Range, Allenstown and Wandal are sought after for their proximity to the CBD, schooling, hospitals and elevation available in some areas to provide city views to the east or vast hinterland views to the west.
However, given that the south side is characterised by Queenslander style homes and there is no room for growth or expansion due to the area being surrounded by flood plains, renovation presents the only option for those in the market wanting both southside convenience and contemporary living, the report noted. 
"In the balance of the market, renovation activity is generally holding steady, with some basic dwellings receiving a renovation to then be on-sold," the valuation firm said. 
This has started to occur after a period of very limited renovation in the low to middle sections of the market and this change is considered to be a combination of low interest rates, a preference by first home buyers to want properties with nothing left to do and a consistent, moderate upturn in the local economy.
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Whilst the majority of the renovations seen are by long term owner-occupiers entering into a major renovation to create their forever home, there are a number of investors picking themselves up a bargain and completing a simple renovation (i.e. no structural changes) to then resell with the intent of turning a profit in a market which is starting to recover from an extended period of no capital growth.
There has been a number of sales evidenced over recent months where a building company has purchased a rundown property in an average suburb, renovated, professionally styled the home and resold at an expected profit with a short turn around.
"Styling and presentation is a key factor linked to the level of profit made. First home buyers still prefer new homes, however there are some who end up buying these more affordable, renovated existing homes with nothing left to be done," the valuation firm said. 
Buy in price points for renovators vary greatly. From sub-$200,000 for the investor-renovator through to $600,000 for the long term owner-occupier- renovator. End values then vary just as much.
The added market value of basic renovations tends to match cost and when the market is starting to recover, a small profit may be had, the report suggested. 
When a major renovation is undertaken however, it is a very different outcome. There is little to no evidence that the added value of the renovation will match or exceed the cost to construct.
"This is where it is important to be aware of the market in which you are renovating to determine where renovation dollars are best spent. Is it wise to make structural changes to the home or stick to cosmetic works only?
"A dwelling with a poor layout would benefit from a structural change to rectify, however if the existing layout is functional, that money may be better directed elsewhere," the valuation firm said. 
The report suggests being aware of town planning is also important when planning a renovation, particularly in older areas where perhaps a heritage overlay or neighbourhood character overlay is required to be complied with.
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For Rockhampton in particular, the renovator market is likely to continue the current trend as factors that drive the decision to renovate are considered a constant in the local market.
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 A renovated family home in West Rockhampton has recently been sold for $290,000.
The four bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-west+rockhampton-133516998" target="_blank">33 Stickley Street </a>(pictured below).
Renovated inside and out, the home features new roof, timber flooring and new hot water system. 
It was last sold in 2005 for $190,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/22/rockhampton%202.jpg" alt="">
 
A classic Queenslander in Lakes Creek with renovated kitchen and bathroom is currently on the market with a price guide of $350,000 -$2380,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-lakes+creek-133783858" target="_blank">604-606 Montgomerie Street</a> (pictured below).
It comes with open plan living, dining and kitchen, rear deck and rumpus room. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/22/lakes%20creek%202.jpg" alt="">
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Rockhampton renovation activity holding steady: HTW residential 

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When most people think of the Central Queensland economy, they think of the resource sector, particularly coal and gas, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential repot. 
The current COVID-19 epidemic is going to have a negative impact on key drivers, so it will be interesting to see what impact this may have on the property market in the short to medium term, the valuation firm said. 
"Yes, it is true that Rockhampton itself is heavily influenced by these two mega industries however in addition to this, the Rockhampton region is considered to be one of the most diverse economies within central and regional Queensland," the valuation firm said. 
The region thrives on a range of other industries including acting as a regional government hub, being one of the top two regional Queensland towns for education services and facilities, a huge agriculture basis and it has always been a long term hub for the railway, construction and defence industries. It is also seen as an emerging tourism destination.
The report suggests this diverse range of employment industries has seen Rockhampton minimise its volatility over the past decade with limited numbers of swings in the property market compared to neighbours such as Gladstone to the south, Emerald to the west and Mackay to the north.
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"After a slowly declining six year period from late 2013 to mid 2019, we have finally started to see the property market respond in a positive way with growth recorded in both sales activity and sale prices across many sectors of the market in the past six to nine months.
"So what’s driving this change, you may ask. Well in hindsight, the catalyst that turned the ship around was the largely unexpected federal election result in May 2019 when unprecedented swings across regional Queensland resulted in a massive boost in confidence to the resource sector," the valuation firm said. 
Production increased during the back half of 2019, creating a wave of new jobs and increased confidence.
"Initially we saw a tightening of the vacancy rates for rental properties which quickly resulted in increased rents. Sales followed suit shortly afterwards," the valuation firm added. 
In more recent times, government infrastructure spending is at an all time high with multi million dollar projects currently underway including the duplication of the Capricorn Highway between Rockhampton and Gracemere, the Parkhurst Highway upgrade, a billion dollar Rockhampton Ring Road project and ongoing Defence Force projects to name a few.
"Of course as I write this the COVID-19 outbreak is impacting the world and Australia. Unprecedented times and its impact is already having a disastrous effect on all levels of the economic front. The extent of its impact locally on the property market is still largely unknown.
"Hopefully the powers at be are making the right decisions in managing this crisis and we all get through this together sooner rather than later." 
A riverside apartment in Rockhampton City was sold for $485,0000 in April.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-rockhampton+city-133093578" target="_blank">505/2-4 Victoria Parade </a>home (pictured below) comprises three bedroom, two bathrooms, open plan kitchen, dining and living area, and two parking spaces.
It features separate laundry, storage space, full-length balcony and views of Fitzroy River and mountains. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/5/18/rockhampton%202.jpg" alt="">
A current listing is a Rockhampton brick home priced at $249,000.
The three bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-rockhampton+city-133307910" target="_blank">54 Denison Street </a>(pictured below).
It is situated close to hospital buses and shopping centres. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/5/18/rockhampton%203.jpg" alt="">
<div>Note regards COVID-19</div>
<div>
This edition of Month In Review had its topic defined in late February with submissions from our offices collated through to late March. During this period, shifts in the social and economic landscape due to COVID-19 became increasingly dramatic, as demonstrated by the varied information provided by offices over the course of three weeks. 
</div>
<div>This month’s residential theme on baseline property market drivers remains a common thread, and provides an indication of what influences to monitor as the property sector recovers post-crisis.</div>
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The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Rockhampton property market remains unknown: HTW residential 

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As the Rockhampton and surrounding residential markets enter 2020, there is a feeling of optimism and increased confidence for the year ahead, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
 The report notes the close of 2019 saw increased sales activity, shorter selling periods and a firming of sale prices. In particular, well maintained and well-presented owner-occupied homes in sought-after suburbs have been leading the charge.
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Many agents are reporting a shortage of listings due to having sold the majority of their stock. For the first time in many years, buyers are feeling the pinch with stories emerging of some now starting to miss out on their first choice of homes.
"Vacancy rates reduced dramatically throughout the course of 2019 and are currently very tight. This has resulted in an increase in rents which we anticipate will hold firm during 2020," the valuation firm said. 
"So, you ask, what’s driving the change?
"Well, we are now seeing significant government infrastructure projects coming to fruition, particularly Main Roads committing to major upgrades including the Gracemere duplication, Parkhurst corridor and of course the Rockhampton Ring Road which is now in the early stages of planning and resumption," the valuation firm said. 
This combined with a surprise federal election result in May 2019 gave Central Queensland a boost in confidence, particularly in the resource and mining sectors which have largely experienced improvements in production, and created new jobs throughout the latter half of 2019.
"In summary, all the key components are there for what should be a positive year ahead with firming conditions predicted in what is shaping up to be a recovery year for the region. After all, it has to be said that the past seven to eight years have largely been disappointing from a property and economic perspective." 
A riverfront apartment in Rockhampton City has recently been sold for $650,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom apartment is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-rockhampton+city-132219102" target="_blank">901/58 Victoria Parade</a> (pictured below). 
It features large balcony, stone kitchen and allocated two car basement parking. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/rockhampton%202.jpg" alt="">
 
A current listing is a West Rockhampton three bedroom house priced at $350,000.
Located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-west+rockhampton-132806430" target="_blank"> 52 Pennycruick Street</a> (pictured below), the house comprises 3 bedrooms, open plan living and entertaining patio.
Other features include hardwood timber floors, ceiling fans and 3 street frontages. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/west%20rockhampton.jpg" alt="">
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Rockhampton property market to recover in 2020: HTW residential 

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The Rockhampton region has been spoilt for choice with a number of quality homes selling throughout the year, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"This isn’t always the case for our local markets so it has been a very exciting year!" the valuation firm said. 
"Rockhampton itself has seen our long-standing price ceiling of $1.5 million smashed this year with the sale of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-the+range-130497642" target="_blank">50 Agnes Street, The Range</a> (pictured above)."
This property was set to go to auction back in March however sold prior to, with a number of serious offers received prior to the day.
The eventual sale price was just shy of $1.8 million.
This property is positioned on the top of The Range, a highly desirable residential locality among families and investors alike.
It is a modern home of grand proportions with top quality fitout, on a larger than average 2,462 square metre well landscaped allotment with pool, pool house and tennis court just some of the stand out features.
"The Capricorn Coast has also had some premium sales throughout the year, albeit less volume than 2018," the valuation firm said. 
A rural residential property on two hectares with elevation high above Mulambin Beach is currently under contract for well in excess of $1 million.
This property attracted multiple offers over a relatively short marketing period, highlighting that there is still demand for well- established property with quality views at the upper price points.
"To a lesser extent, our rural residential markets also provided some interesting sales throughout the year with a current contract of a modern home on an acre allotment on the northern fringe of Rockhampton reaching $900,000," the valuation firm said. 
This property has a generously proportioned modern home with pool and large shed.
"Regionally, there is typically very little by way of premium rental properties or units with most executive rentals topping out at around $550 to $600 per week," the valuation firm continued. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/27%20island%20view%20crescent.jpg" alt="">
"If one were chasing a sea change, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-barlows+hill-130681486" target="_blank">27 Island View Crescent at Barlows Hill</a> (pictured above) has on offer, for $1.95 million, an architect designed, multi-level home of a reported 1,000 square metres of living area!" 
Expansive ocean views are on offer, together with six bedrooms, opulent master suite, soundproof media room, C-Bus lighting system, wet edge pool, library and dumbwaiter.
"North Rockhampton has a select few areas which spark the curiosity of the marketplace," the valuation firm stated. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/27/29%20murlay%20avenue.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-frenchville-131985306" target="_blank">29 Murlay Avenue</a> (pictured above) has recently been listed for sale at $985,000. Once again, this is a spacious, multi- level home, with the main feature here being the quality views back over the city of Rockhampton and the Fitzroy River.
"The property has a unique appeal to the entertainers out there," the valuation firm commented. 
Back over to The Range and just over the road from the record-breaking sale at 50 Agnes Street, number 51 Agnes Street is a listing to watch.
Having recently undergone a complete transformation after being purchased for $460,000 just over 12 months ago, it is now offered to the market at $945,000 with high quality fitout and immaculate presentation and styling.
"One of our more unique listings of late has been a seven hectare absolute river front property on the fringe of suburban North Rockhampton at 352 Lakes Creek Road, Koongal.
"The property is unique not only for its river frontage, but also due to its combination of improvements including a residence, a set of four flats, stables and large shed." 
This one of a kind property was taken to auction in May, before being priced to sell at $1.25 million.
The site is partly flood affected and has been zoned Waterfront and Marine Industry.
"This property has no recent sales history and is without comparison, so it will be an interesting property to analyse once sold." 
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Rockhampton sees a number of quality home sales: HTW residential 

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In the Rockhampton region, yields have always been a strong consideration for the investor market as the region does not suffer the significant price fluctuations of the larger city markets, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at rental yields across the nation. 
"Any capital gain to be had in our region is therefore a long-term commitment. A high grossing yield provides the incentive to remain in the market," the valuation firm said. 
"On the other hand, most investors coming into the Gladstone market are more looking for short to medium term capital gains, especially given the timing of the current market cycle.
"The current state of the Rockhampton and Gladstone markets is considered to be at the early stages of recovery, so typically now is the best time to achieve a higher yielding property while values remain at an affordable low and rents are starting to creep up after a consistent tightening trend of vacancy rates over the past 18 months to two years."
Across the Rockhampton and Gladstone regions, the type of investor varies greatly from the typical mum and dad investor who may have one house other than the family home, through to interstate investors who invest significantly in the region via the purchase of multiple dwellings or sets of flats.
Whilst rarely seen, there is also a small degree of foreign investment.
"The emergence of the Rockhampton Riverfront precinct over the past ten years has also provided the opportunity to hold a holiday unit and receive the higher return over peak periods, or the benefit of a dual key arrangement, although there is a limited market for fully serviced apartments in our region," the valuation firm added. 
Gladstone has a significant supply of inner city apartments operated as serviced apartments aimed mainly at corporate travellers as well as tourists.
Non-traditional income producing properties (such as Airbnb) are less common regionally, with little evidence available to determine a yield.
There are however the occasional peak periods where traditional short-term accommodation cannot cater to the market, such as during the Beef Australia events held every three years, where Airbnb is extremely effective, however this is not an ongoing source of income throughout the year.
In the residential space, it is unlikely that a standard suburban home would attract what investors would consider to be a high yielding return on investment, depending on the location.
The report notes a typical 10 year old, four-bedroom home that may sell for $470,000 may only provide a gross yield in the order of 5% to 5.5%. This type of yield reflects the low-maintenance nature of the property.
An entry level home in the older, established areas of Rockhampton will be more attractive if assessed on a yield basis only, for example a 1940s high set three-bedroom fibro home, not directly flood affected (becomes isolated during flood periods) may sell at around $160,000 and provide a gross yield somewhere between 7% and 8%.
Whilst this may be more acceptable to most investors, there is likely to be higher levels of expenses involved with maintaining the property which would affect achievable rental income.
"Gladstone properties reflect similar yields, however the price points differ slightly," the valuation firm said. 
A typical five to 10 year old, four-bedroom home in Kirkwood or New Auckland would sell for around $300,000 and would reflect a gross yield in the order of 5% to 6%.
An older 1960s high set, three-bedroom home in a central suburb such as West Gladstone or South Gladstone would typically sell for around $200,000 and provide a gross yield somewhere between 6% and 8%.
The best high yielding property type in our region is flats or multiple properties on one title.
Due to the multiple occupancy nature, the income generated is often at least double traditional residential housing.
"Whilst we have example after example of traditional sets of flats achieving gross yields typically in the high 7% to low 8% range (buy in prices around the low to mid $300,000s), there are still some rare opportunities out there," the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/10/30/koongal%202.jpg" alt="">
A recent sale of a two x two-bedroom duplex at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-duplex+semi-detached-qld-koongal-130358254" target="_blank">12 Macarthur Street, Koongal</a> (pictured above) for $210,000, reflects a gross yield of 9.9%.
It is difficult to beat a near 10% return on a residential property in this region. This property then may benefit from the potential to increase the yield through a renovation and in turn increase the annual income able to be generated by the duplex.
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Now is the best time to find higher yielding properties in Rockhampton and Gladstone: HTW residential 

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The office market in Rockhampton has stabilised, however remains relatively flat, according to the latest report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The property valuation firm found, there have been no major office developments in the CBD since the completion of the NAB building in 2012, however there is still a significant vacancy rate and until existing vacancies are absorbed across the CBD, it is unlikely we will see any other major office developments in the immediate term.
However the Council has recently let the contract for the construction of a new art gallery in the CBD on a 2,800 square metre site.
It will require the demolition of existing office buildings which provide about 3,000 to 4,000 square metres of office space.
The report noted, "rentals have been relatively stable over the past 12 to 24 months, however leases that were negotiated some five to ten years ago that are coming to an end are seeing some re-negotiations as the previous rentals are now considered above market."
"Generally speaking, office rentals within the Rockhampton CBD have been ranging from about $225 to $300 per square metre gross. Rentals above $300 per square metre gross are for prime office tenancies only."
"There have been no recent major transactions of office buildings."
"The most recent was the sale of the NAB building which transacted in 2016 for $9.35 million."
"Owner-occupiers remain fairly active in the market, with most activity in the sub- $1 million price bracket."
"Vacant office buildings have been very thinly traded above the $1 million price bracket in recent years."
"With multiple infrastructure projects commencing and in the pipeline, things are looking positive for the office market in Rockhampton in the short to medium term," the report concluded.
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Rockhampton office market left flat: HTW Commercial

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2019 to date has seen some improvement across the Rockhampton and surrounding residential markets, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report.
The report notes that the rental market has improved with a significant decline in vacancy rates resulting in a slight increase in median rents across most sectors.
In terms of sales activity the top end of the market ($700,000 and above) has been on fire in recent months with a new record price for a residential house coming in at a touch under $1.8 million.
There has also been a larger than average number of sales occur between $900,000 and $1.3 million which is well above average for the number of sales in this sector, having only averaged about two to three sales per annum in recent years.
A fully rebuilt five bedroom house at The Range with views over the city and mountains has been recently sold for $1.3 million. 
Sitting on a 1,809 square metre landscaped yard, the house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-the+range-130927290" target="_blank"> 102 Caroline Street</a> (pictured below) comprises open plan living, kitchen with butlers pantry, master suite, and four additional bedrooms.
Other features include entertaining area, inground pool, office nook, solar water and triple garage. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/the%20range%201.jpg" alt="">
The mid-range sector of the market ($250,000 to $400,000) is tracking reasonably well, especially owner-occupier homes which have been well maintained and well presented.
"Rental properties on the other hand are often much more difficult to sell as they generally take longer and are often sold at a higher discount," the valuation firm said. 
The lower end of the market (sub-$200,000) still appears to be under duress, with a high number of listings of inferior quality stock.
This has continued to keep prices down and recovery in this sector still seems to be some way off however on a brighter note it does appear as though the number of bank re-possession sales is on the decline.
"Also of note is that new housing construction seems to have been somewhat buoyant in the first half of 2019, with Norman Gardens in particular seeing an increase in new homes compared to the same periods in 2017 and 2018," the valuation firm said. 
A Norman Garden master-planned estate display home is currently on the market with $445,000 hopes. 
Set on a 526 square metre lot near bushland pockets, the display home at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-norman+gardens-131461622" target="_blank"> 1 Chestnut Avenue </a>(pictured  below) comes with four bedrooms, study/office, open plan kitchen, dining and living area, and double lockup parking. 
It's located about 12 minutes to city centre.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/norman%20gardens.jpg" alt="">
"In summary, we feel the local property market has hit the bottom and is in the process of recovery.
"In terms of performance, we think the first half of 2019 would rate as a six out of ten and hopefully this continues to improve throughout the back half of 2019." 
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Rockhampton residential market in recovery: HTW residential

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A modern Bunnings anchored retail complex in Norman Gardens, near Rockhampton, has hit the market through Savills.
Bunnings only moved into the <a href="http://commercialpropertysearch.savills.com.au/7972985e-4a71-e911-80d9-005056813885/Sale/Norman-Gardens/540-Yaamba-Rd" target="_blank">Yaamba Road property</a> in 2017. It is better known as being the old Masters Home Improvements site.
The 2013 developed complex has a long lease to Bunnings until 2030 with options to 2078.
Bunnings occupy over 76% of gross lettable area.
It is the only Bunnings in the area supported by a freestanding retail building which is currently tenanted to Autobarn, Freddy's Fishing World &amp; Outdoors and Petstock.
The whole complex fully tenanted brings in over $2.6 million per annum.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/Bunnings1.jpg" alt="">
There are 448 car parking spaces on the property, 108 under shade sails.
It is located seven kilometres from the Rockhampton CBD and sees 25,900 vehicles pass daily, around 9.4 million annually.
Savills agents Peter and Jon Tyson have the listing. 
The Tysons sold <a href="/expert-insights/investing/former-bunnings-rockhampton-warehouse-up-for-grabs-after-relocation">Bunnings' former premises down the street</a> just last year.
The 7,660 square metre building was sold for nearly $39 million.
It was sold in August 2018 and is now known as Red Hill Homemaker Centre which comprises over 25 retailers and a 500 space car park.
The likes of Harvey Norman, The Good Guys, Australia Post and Intersport have all moved in to the building, with tenancies still available through Knight Frank Rockhampton.
“The building would be readily adapted for reuse, with options including certain retail, large format retail or bulky goods uses, vehicle and outdoor sales, industry and self-storage uses," Tyson said before its sale.
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New Norman Gardens Bunnings building to be sold

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CBRE Hotels has sold Travelodge Rockhampton to a private Chinese investment group.
The acquisition is the group's first foray into the Queensland hotel market.
The 4-star Rockhampton CBD hotel at 86 Victoria Parade features 74 rooms, as well as four conference and meeting rooms, two food and beverage venues, a swimming pool, gymnasium and parking.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/2/5/rockhampton%202.jpg" alt="">
The asset received multiple offers in the first week of the campaign.
CBRE Hotels said a stock shortage is helping to draw buyer attention to Queensland opportunities as investors are priced out of southern markets. Investors are seeking to capitalise on the Sunshine State’s strong tourism fundamentals and more transactions are expected to take place along the Queensland coast throughout 2019, they noted.
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