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."

&nbsp;

[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.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[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

<html><body>
A heritage-listed building which was earlier the home of Rockhampton Post Office is going under the hammer at Burgess Rawson auction on April 5.
The iconic building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-qld-rockhampton+city-502317358" target="_blank">80 East Street, Rockhampton City, Qld 4700</a> is one of the top five ”Nobel Edifice" ranked buildings in Australia.
The building is fully leased with terms to 2022 with options for extension till 2032. The property earns a net Income of $458,902 per annum.
Tenants include Degani Bakery Café (Jolt Café), which has 78 stores in Queensland and Victoria, The Ranch Bar and Grill — a Texan-inspired restaurant, and Fitzroy Basin Association, a government-funded natural resource body.
It has a land area of 1,863 square metres and floor area of 1,368 square metres.
The current owner has refurbished the building with a new lift, airconditioner, electrical wiring and internal fittings.
The property last traded for a little more than $1.4 million in 2008, according to RP Data. The vendor was Central Queensland University. 
It has a site area of 1,863 square metres with a net lettable area of 1,368 square metres. 
The listing agents are Shaun Venables and Jamie Dewe of Burgess Rawson.
 
</body></html>

prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Heritage Rockhampton building to go under the hammer

<html><body>
Tenders are out to lease the upper level bar and restaurant at the Rockhampton Pier development in Queensland.
The former restaurant is currently being demolished.
The site 189 Quay Street, has more than 300 square metres of indoor and outdoor lettable floor space.
Pat O’Driscoll, principal and director, Knight Frank Rockhampton said this will be the only restaurant in this precinct that is actually cantilevered over the riverbank.
“The riverfront revitalisation will completely transform Rocky and give the city a huge tourism boost," he said.
Building will begin April for late 2017 completion.
The Rockhampton Riverfront area is currently being redeveloped and will eventually feature a fully reconstructed Quay Street, wet play area, revitalised gardens and amphitheatre.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Tenders out for redeveloped Rockhampton restaurant and bar

<html><body>
There is a more positive outlook than has been evident over recent years in Rockhampton, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says this may see the bottom of the property cycle realised in the Rockhampton region.
“We consider this is largely due to the recent improvement of the mining industry, driven by recent announcements by Adani Coal, increased commodity prices and improved perception of job security across associated service industries,” the firm says.
“This positivity on top of what are (comparatively) affordable housing prices and low interest rates is hoped to generate some activity in our local markets and stabilise value levels.”
There was a tightening of rental vacancy rates during the last quarter of 2016 and should this reduced rate become a trend or even merely stabilise at this lower point (around 4.5%, down from around 6.5%), it will enhance the investor sector of the market (sub $250,000), the report suggests.
HTW expects the lower end of the market to be the sector to watch.
“Generally it is this sector that needs to stabilise first before a market recovery can be anticipated.
“Sectors which may warrant more caution during 2017 will continue to be modern housing estates wholly marketed to non-local investors as house and land package deals.
“In recent years, we have seen land in this type of estate marketed and sold with inflated land contracts.
“As the region’s attractiveness to investors improves, so too will the number of sales with these inflated land prices in selected areas.”
Rockhampton’s riverfront continues to evolve with new unit complexes in the early stages of construction.
The Gallery Stage 1 (of two stages) is to provide 30 two and three bedroom apartments plus a ground floor restaurant.
Approximately 40% of the units in Stage 1 are currently under contract.
Another riverfront complex, Skyview has also recently been introduced to the market, offering a boutique development of 13 two and three bedroom apartments with river views.
Prices range from $449,000 to $799,000.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-west+rockhampton-124609162" target="_blank">11 Schultz Street</a>, West Rockhampton (above) has been listed for $369,000.
Similarly a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-rockhampton+city-124699466" target="_blank">7/260 Quay</a>, Rockhampton City (below) has been reduced to $249,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/20/7_260%20Quay.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Mining uptick may be the medicine for Rockhampton market: HTW

<html><body>
Price point nor location are the determining factors in the Rockhampton region when determining the most or active sectors, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that price point and location are not determining factors in either the most or least active sectors of the market in the Rockhampton region at this point in time.
"More so, the buyer profile and presentation of the property is determining activity or lack thereof in the local market," HTW advised.
The buyer demographic most active in this region over recent months has mainly been owner occupiers looking for either a first home or upgrading under favourable buyer conditions, including record low interest rates and affordable housing prices.
These buyers, whether they are first or subsequent home buyers, are drawn to well priced and well presented dwellings, ready to live in with no renovations or repairs required.
Price points vary considerably for this active market sector, but HTW said it is typically seeing first home buyers at prices up to approximately $300,000 and upgraders from $400,000, depending on their financial backing.
An example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-norman+gardens-123802782" target="_blank">25 Kingfisher Parade</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $349,000.
The local investor market has been slower than it has been historically, with job security the obvious reason behind this changing trend in Rockhampton.
Properties that appeal to investors generally would benefit from a maintenance program to attract tenants and enhance rental return.
Given the volume of available housing, buyers have been less inclined to spend their cash reserves on such maintenance and repairs.
"While our local economy is typically quite diverse compared to our regional neighbours to the north, south and west with education, health and agriculture also major employers in the region, the mining and associated services industry downturn has had a significant effect on local investment," the report states.
This has combined with higher rental vacancy rates which makes the region less attractive for the typical mum and dad investors.
HTW noted that Rockhampton has, historically, been more stable compared to other regions.
"Having said this, Rockhampton has historically been a less volatile market than other regional localities," said the report. "+Given recent economic conditions combined with the 2015 APRA changes to investor lending, it is possible that some investor activity will return to the local market as investing in capital cities becomes less affordable."
</body></html>

Presentation plays vital role in sale of Rockhampton properties: HTW

<html><body>
Property markets in Queensland’s Rockhampton and surrounding areas have softened over the past 12 months and possibly present some of the best opportunities in years, say valuation firm Herron Todd White in their July 2016 residential market report which takes a look at properties in the sub-$500,000 range.
“While not the best news for potential sellers, owner occupiers and investors will get more bang for their buck than ever. As always though, buyer beware!” say HTW.
An investor looking to park $500,000 in Rockhampton would be weighing up a modern (say five to 10 year old) four-bedroom, two-bathroom home in the northern suburb of Norman Gardens which would fetch a rental between $450 and $500 per week against an older three- or four-bedroom Queenslander, gable style home on the Range on the southside. Both styles of home would appeal to owner-occupiers and investors alike and are desirable suburbs providing good amenity and proximity to schools and the CBD. Investors would be looking at a gross yield of 4.5 percent to 5 percent. 
There are plenty of options in the early $300,000s up to $400,000 in the suburbs of Berserker and Kawana in north Rockhampton where you will find some well-presented three- and four-bedroom homes achieving yields of 4 percent to 5 percent. 
“Doing your research is key in these areas. Vacancy rates have been on the increase over the past 12 months. While still 5.5 percent to 5.7 percent, this is a steady increase from the lows seen in the golden years of the mining and gas boom.” 
Potential buyers should be wary of outer areas of Rockhampton such as Gracemere and Mount Morgan where supply has well and truly exceeded demand. Vacancy rates have been on the rise over the past 12 months and are now sitting at around 8.5 percent. The number of days on the market has also increased significantly. 
The Palaszczuk government’s announcement to increase the First Home Owner’s Grant from $15,000 to $20,000 for newly constructed homes (valued less than $750,000) for the next 12 months is likely to result in some increase in construction activity in the area and will provide a lifeline for some of our struggling tradesmen. However, it also has the potential to detrimentally impact vacancy rates with increased stock in the long term. 
Capital growth is unlikely in the short to medium term in the Rockhampton region. Despite record low interest rates there is still a lot of uncertainty in the camp particularly around job security. It appears there is little joy on the horizon to drive the market in any forward direction. We anticipate rents will remain at. There is likely to be a lot of fence sitting as punters wait for the dust to settle from the outcome of the federal election. 
As an illustration of the property market under $500,000, Property Observer found a two-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-rockhampton+city-121324446" target="_blank">402/6 Victoria Parade, Rockhampton City</a> that sold recently for $443,500.
</body></html>

Soft Rockhampton property market ripe for buyers in $500,000 range: HTW 

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 47">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Queensland's Rockhampton has stayed at the approaching the bottom of market cycle for several months now, according to Herron Todd White's property clock -- a simple broad brush means of suggesting where property prices are and the direction they're headed in.
Its April report discusses fringe suburbs. 
Fringe suburbs within the Rockhampton region would include Gracemere to the south, Parkhurst to the north and Lakes Creek to the east. These areas are typically much more affordable largely due to the cheaper parcels of land on offer. For example a spacious brand new four-bedroom, two-bathroom brick home in Gracemere can be anywhere from $100,000 to $150,000 cheaper then Norman Gardens yet can potentially provide the same level of accommodation and comfort, with location and distance to the CBD being the key factor in value.
Rental values are also significantly cheaper in these fringe locations, in some cases up to 40 percent cheaper for similar quality homes. Future prospects see the north and eastern sides of Rockhampton as potential areas for investment, however, Gracemere appears to have an oversupply issue which makes current prices appear good buying, however it must be said that a recovery in this particular market appears to be some time in the making. 
Property Observer looked up a few recent sales in some of the fringe suburbs of Rockhampton.
The median house price in Gracemere was $329,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data. There was no recent data for units. 
A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-gracemere-120863057" target="_blank">3 Koolamarra Drive Gracemere Qld 4702</a> sold for $325,000.
<img src="/images/2016/06/01/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-01%20at%202.30.48%20PM.png" alt="">
In Parkhurst, the median house price was $355,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data. No data was available for units.
A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-parkhurst-119948709" target="_blank">38 Bean Avenue Parkhurst Qld 4702</a> exchanged hands at the median price.
 <img src="/images/2016/06/01/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-01%20at%202.31.54%20PM.png" alt="">
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Queensland's Rockhampton fringes are affordable, but market recovery may take long: HTW

<html><body>
A $24 million high-end apartment complex in Victoria's Rockhampton, overlooking the Fitzroy River, has been completed.
Located on Victoria Parade, the 10-storey building named Southbank on Victoria comprises 55 apartments, including one, two and three-bedroom units, said a media release.
Designed by Australasian architecture firm The Buchan Group, the development on a site area of 7,500 sqm represents the ongoing rejuvenation of Rockhampton’s residential unit market.
The Buchan Group was appointed in August 2012 to work with local property developer Griffin Builders to bring provide architectural, interior design and graphics expertise to the project.
The Buchan Group’s senior associate Paul Watson said the waterfront high-rise set a new benchmark for apartment living in Rockhampton.
“The Buchan Group team worked on sophisticated designs that incorporated the bold and linear edges of Southbank on Victoria’s external façade frame, with modern, interior elements highlighting the city’s growing cosmopolitan lifestyle,” he said.
“As the original concept for the block changed over the project life, we reduced the density of the development to maximise efficiency and consciously mirror the ambience and serenity of the nearby waterfront, city views, and parkland settings."
 A majority of the apartments were shown to be sold on the project's <a href="https://www.southbankrockhampton.com.au/southbank_availability" target="_blank">website</a>. Among the ones left, the two-bedroom apartments start at $390,000.
</body></html>

Waterfront apartment complex in Rockhampton complete

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 45">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Queensland's Rockhampton is approaching the bottom of market according to HTW's property clock for March, which also predicts that 2016 won't be an easy year for the city and surrounding residential markets.
The valuation firm also discusses the impact of gentrification on the city. 
HTW's property clock is a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are and what direction prices are moving in.
<a href="/images/2016/03/17/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-17%20at%209.55.26%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/17/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-17%20at%209.55.26%20AM.png" alt="">
 
After a tough 2015, confidence still appears to be down, with many resource and associated service industries still dealing with tumbling commodity prices and a declining workforce.
The lower end of the market (sub $300,000) has experienced some of the worst declines in value across the region with a significant number of mortgagee sales recording drops in value from 20 to 40% against their previous sale prices which can generally be any where from one to eight years prior. The worst affected areas include Gracemere, Zilzie and older established suburbs of Rockhampton such as Depot Hill, Berserker and Park Avenue. 
This has largely been the result of a mass exit of investors leaving the market reliant upon first home owners and lower income buyers with substantial budget restraints. 2016 will be another tough year for the localities and as such they should be treated with caution however at the same time they may present opportunities should we reach the bottom of the property cycle, but as always this is something very dif cult to ag at the time. 
Better quality localities and properties where owner- occupiers are active in the medium price range ($300,000 to $500,000) appear to be holding their values. Suburbs include large areas of the Capricorn Coast, Norman Gardens, Frenchville and Wandal. Despite these areas holding well, it is unlikely that they will experience any substantial gains in value throughout 2016.
Medium to high-end properties above $500,000 have been also holding relatively well and include suburbs such as Rockyview, parts of Norman Gardens, and The Range.
In terms of gentrification, Rockhampton has been going through it since late 2005 when the first high-rise unit complex in over 30 years was completed along the river bank.  
Since then there have been an additional six high-rise unit complexes completed comprising a mix of permanent and short term accommodation and of late the addition of various restaurants and cafés in the Empire and Edge buildings which were both completed in the past five years. Victoria Parade and Quay Street have become the heart of the city and this is supported by Council’s recent announcements regarding the funding and approvals for the Rockhampton Revitalisation Concept Plan, which focuses on the Fitzroy River from Quay Street to William Street.
A set of new pathways, landscaping concepts, memorial and historical features are all incorporated into the project. Rockhampton has seen an increase in the number of small cafés and boutique shops with a noticeable increase in alfresco and street side dining areas. 
Within Rockhampton city itself there is a slow but gradual phasing out of old timber and fibro dwellings and replacement with more modern charismatic small and compact unit developments, often available for under $300,000. Given that the current economic climate is considered to be somewhat weak, this process may take some time however the diversity of the local economy is sure to keep the gentrification process ticking over.  
As an example of a sale, a three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-rockhampton+city-110897251" target="_blank">303/6 Victoria Parade Rockhampton City Qld 4700</a> went for $433,000.
 
<div class="page" title="Page 47">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 48">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<img src="/images/2016/03/17/image2.jpg" alt="">
 
In summary, 2016 sees many challenges facing the Rockhampton market and values will be dependent on a range of factors including the mining/resource industry outlook, state and local council initiatives and on a positive note the local agricultural industry, particularly beef is experiencing record cattle prices which are forecast to continue and will no doubt act as a positive indicator for the region. 
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Rocky year ahead for Rockhampton: HTW

<html><body>
A large land parcel in Queensland’s Rockhampton region’s agricultural sector is up for sale through auction, the second time in 70 years it will trade hands.
Clifton — a land parcel sprawling 16,000 hectares (plus 4,122 hectare Forestry Lease) with a combined cattle carrying capacity of approximately 4,000 Adult Equivalents, has been listed by CBRE Agribusiness’ Geoff Warriner, Chris Holgar and Thomas Warriner. The auction is on April 21.
Located close to Rockhampton – Australia’s beef capital – the holding comprises a mix of land and soil types suited to diverse uses. It is subdivided into nearly 20 paddocks.
“This premium property represents an outstanding opportunity for new entrants into the beef industry through to existing industry participants, representing size, scale, diversification and affordability close to Rockhampton,” said Geoff Warriner.
The property’s proximity to Rockhampton is expected to draw strong investor interest. 
“The opportunity to acquire a property with scale and scope for expansion in one of the most keenly contested sectors of the agribusiness market will no doubt attract a wide range of interest from both domestic and foreign investors,” Warriner said. 
“Furthermore, Clifton’s location, quality and soil types lend favourably to further development in order to capitalise on its proximity to end markets.” 
</body></html>

Land parcel close to beef capital Rockhampton under the hammer

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 44">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Property around Rockhampton is showing good value for money in comparison to previous years, according to Herron Todd White.
Herron Todd White's Month in Review for October said due to the downturn in the mining industry and lack of investors, purchasers are now seeing property offering good value for money compared to a number of years ago.
With the downturn in the mining industry and lack of investors, low priced, entry-level markets and some mid price properties are now seeing more activity than the higher priced markets.
Such areas include Depot Hill and Rockhampton City on the south side and Berserker, Park Avenue and areas of Koongal in the north.
"Entry level buyers can pick up property now in the low to mid $100,000s which may or may not be in a flood prone area," it said.
"These are generally older style dwellings with limited ancillary improvements and vary in condition. 
"Cheaper priced properties of better quality and generally out of flood areas can be expected to achieve up to around $250,000."
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Rockhampton

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Rockhampton

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News