Brisbane-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co Developments</a> has officially launched its $250million COMO apartment development in Varsity Lakes, while simultaneously commencing construction.&nbsp;

Building work is now underway at COMO following the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a> as contractor to deliver the boutique development which will rise on a 2857 sqm site overlooking Lake Orr at 22 Lake Street.

When completed, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels located in the heart of Varsity Lakes.

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The project, which will sit alongside Bond University, will deliver a diverse array of apartment designs comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences that have already attracted interest from local and interstate investors as well as an array of owner occupiers looking to gain a foothold in the precinct.

Red &amp; Co, which has largely focused on the Brisbane market in recent years where it has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects, has designed COMO to combine tranquil, lakeside living with the vibrant urban convenience of the vibrant Varsity Lakes village.

“We’re thrilled to announce a start to construction of COMO in conjunction with the official launch of the project, our first for the Gold Coast,” said Red &amp; Co Director and Co-Founder David Laverty.

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“COMO is superbly positioned to capture the essence of the Varsity Lakes village lifestyle and its thriving café and dining precinct, while delivering a much-needed diverse supply of premium residences for the local market.

“Pre-launch inquiries have been strong among both local and interstate investors and owner-occupiers, including downsizers and upgraders who appreciate the value proposition that COMO represents.”

Prices at COMO start from $1,000,050.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the COMO development incorporates an extensive range of amenities for residents including a 25-metre rooftop lap pool, sundeck, barbecue and dining areas, as well as multiple rooftop pickleball and paddleball courts, a wellness and activity centre, gym, sauna, plunge baths and landscaped gardens.

“COMO presents a rare opportunity to secure a stylish, lifestyle-focused home in one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after neighbourhoods,” added Laverty.

“The rooftop will be the epicentre of fun for residents with an array of amenities for residents that are quite unique for a boutique project such as this, all while offering spectacular vistas across the Gold Coast as far north as Southport and south to Burleigh.”

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&nbsp;

Red &amp; Co has chosen the Varsity Lakes site for its proximity to top-tier schools, major shopping hubs, such as Robina Town Centre and its CBD offering, as well as key Gold Coast transport links, including Varsity Lakes Train Station.

COMO will be located just a short walk to shops, cafes and restaurants in Varsity Lakes and just a 10-minute drive to the Burleigh Heads beachfront.

With construction currently underway, Red &amp; Co anticipates COMO will be completed in 2028.

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Joel Robinson

Red & Co to launch debut Gold Coast development Como Varsity Lakes as construction commences

Longstanding Gold Coast developer Raptis has acquired a prime development site on Surf Parade for its next Broadbeach apartment project.

Progressing towards completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-sterling-broadbeach-6-8-george-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Sterling Broadbeach</a>, 90 apartments on nearby George Avenue, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a>, led by second-generation family man Evan Raptis, has picked up a block on the corner of Surf Parade and First Avenue.

The site had been earmarked for a luxury apartment project with 33 full-floor apartments across a 37-storey tower. Raptis will go back to the drawing board and create a building more appropriate for the site. The development application will be lodged later this month.

Evan Raptis told Apartments.com.au the site ticks all the boxes.

"Broadbeach is a suburb we've developed several buildings over the years. Surf Parade ticks all the boxes for the type of apartment development we want to deliver."

Raptis had several pre-lodgement meetings with council to ensure they are aligned in the development.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0d58573-07a4-47a8-9f5e-fbf35fb03dc3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-05%20at%204.58.23%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=iczZEd_4_o4UL0PHMPJGfy_q3tv96J5i" />

Surf Parade has emerged in recent years as one of the most popular streets in Broadbeach for development.

South East Queensland developer Mosaic Property Group kicked it off with Marella by Mosaic. Bassar Group sold out Infinity on the street, while for its&nbsp;first Gold Coast development, Polycell grabbed a Surf Parade site for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rochester-broadbeach-143-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Rochester</a>, which is nearly sold out.

Melbourne-based developer Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched its fourth Gold Coast project on the exclusive strip. The Eveleigh Broadbeach will have 100 apartments across a 31-storey building designed by Rothelowman.

GV Property Group site development specialists Antonio Mercuri and Luke Reaby, who both amalgamate sites and sell shovel-ready sites to developers up and down the Gold Coast, sold Surf Parade to Raptis.

Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development

Less than two years after breaking ground, Gardner Vaughan Group is celebrating the topping out of Bask, its second development in the exclusive coastal enclave of Bokarina on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast.&nbsp;

Located only minutes from the beachfront, the two seven-storey luxury apartment towers, known individually as Mydas and Caretta, offer a selection of one-to-four-bedroom residences with views of Lake Kawana, the Glasshouse Mountains, and Bokarina Beach.&nbsp;

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Gardner Vaughan Group Commercial Director Sam Gardner said the milestone marks the home stretch for construction, with first residents expected to be able to move in from Spring 2026.&nbsp;

“This is a significant milestone in bringing this development to life and represents our confidence in this region’s long-term growth and appeal,” Gardner said.&nbsp;

“With 85 per cent of apartments already sold, buyers are joining an established, coastal village that offers the very best of the Sunshine Coast – seasonally patrolled surf beaches, renowned restaurants, and links to established health and retail.&nbsp;

“The final collection of three- and four- bedroom apartments range in size from 127sqm to 300sqm, each with two or three secure car parks and storage, and with construction fast approaching completion we don’t expect the last few apartments to remain on the market for long.”&nbsp;

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Local restaurateur Luke Stringer, who co-owns and manages the award-winning Bocca Italian and Playa Mexican restaurants in Bokarina, has lived in the beachside suburb for 18 months and worked there for more than three years, and said the beachside suburb was thriving.&nbsp;

“It’s fair to say Bokarina is finally stepping into the sun and there’s a lot to love about the place,"&nbsp;Stringer said.

"It’s such a great community, where you see the same smiling faces every morning and everything’s within easy reach – it’s the perfect hub in the middle of the Sunshine Coast.

“When we first opened Bocca Italian, we were the lone restaurant, but it’s been amazing to see how the area has grown. The more venues that open, the busier it gets for everyone. When Playa Mexican opened its first Saturday night, Bocca had a record night and Playa was packed too, which blew us away how everyone is thriving.&nbsp;

“There’s a great energy around the place now, and people are really embracing Bokarina as a food and lifestyle destination.”&nbsp;

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Stringer joined other buyers at Bask Bokarina and the Gardner Vaughan Group team to celebrate the topping out at a special event in February.&nbsp;

Located in Kawana Waters, midway between Caloundra and Maroochydore, Bokarina locals enjoy scenic walking paths around Lake Kawana, playgrounds, beachfront boardwalk and parklands, alongside all the convenience of a masterplanned beachside community.&nbsp;

“You see people jogging or swimming in the morning, then grabbing coffee at the cafes, people are really embracing the area and all this growth is bringing more people to Bokarina,” Stringer added.&nbsp;

To take advantage of the vistas, each of the 135 apartments at Bask is designed with full size windows and high ceilings that provide an abundance of natural light.&nbsp;

Prices for the remaining three-bedroom apartments start at $1,599,000 and four-bedroom apartments start at $3,149,000.&nbsp;

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The mixed-use development also features ground-level retail space for cafés, dining options and boutiques, including the soon-to-be-opened ‘Corner Shop’, by the team behind Noosa’s well known ‘Organika’.

Sam Gardner said Gardner Vaughan Group’s 37-year history building and developing across South East Queensland has contributed to the success of its second development in Bokarina, which follows the recently completed Zinc Apartments.&nbsp;

“We care how people live and this is reflected in the way we approach the design and delivery of every development,” he said. “Furthermore, as a builder-developer we have full control over the construction program and our 100 per cent completion rate is something people can draw confidence from.”&nbsp;

Founded by civil engineers Guy Gardner and Darryl Vaughan in 1989, the family-owned business has evolved from a consultancy firm to an award-winning builder-developer, with projects across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

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Gardner Vaughan Group tops out Bask Bokarina apartments

Prolific Melbourne developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> has launched its fourth new Gold Coast development in as many years.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a>, led by Daniel Faigen and backed by Eddie Hirsch, co-founder of United Petroleum, has unveiled The Eveleigh, on a prime 1,100 sqm site at 7-9 Surf Parade in the heart of Broadbeach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a> will deliver 100 apartments across 31 levels, making it the company’s largest Gold Coast project to date. It builds on the success of its three earlier developments, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/hemingway-1267-1273-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach">The Hemingway in Palm Beach</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/emerson-kirra-100-musgrave-street-coolangatta">The Emerson at Kirra</a>, both completed, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yves-mermaid-beach-7-9-mermaid-avenue-mermaid-beach">Yves Mermaid Beach</a>, which is nearing completion.

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The announcement of The Eveleigh affirms the company’s sustained confidence in the Gold Coast market which continues to remain undersupplied. It also increases the value of Hirsch &amp; Fa​igen’s Gold Coast development portfolio to more than $700 million since the company first entered the market in 2021 with Hemingway.

The company has enlisted its preferred architecture firm Rothelowman to design The Eveleigh, which will offer a thoughtfully curated lifestyle, including a substantial wellness precinct, communal recreation areas, children’s play spaces, work-from-home facilities, and shared lounge and dining areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

Designed for the prime market demographic of downsizers and interstate lifestyle investors in mind, The Eveleigh has been crafted to offer an increasingly rare blend of affordable luxury in a tightly held market. Uniquely positioned in the heart of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after lifestyle suburb of Broadbeach, the project will also boast uninterrupted beach and hinterland views.

The Surf Parade site is just a short walk to the bustling Broadbeach dining and retail precinct, Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and convention centre, and an easy stroll to Kurrawa Beach and the recreational amenity of Pratten Park on the Broadbeach foreshore.

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“We’re excited to be proceeding with our fourth project on the Gold Coast in what is certain to become the new luxury precinct in Broadbeach,” says Anthony Bueti, the CFO of Hirsch &amp;a​mp; Faigen and a shareholder of the group.

“With the likes of Mosa​ic and Abedian &amp;a​mp; Co also launching quality projects in the area, the transformation will cement Broadbeach as the premier lifestyle and amenity suburb on the Gold Coast.

"After four years in the Gold Coast market, and with three successful projects completed, The Eveleigh is the product of everything we have learned to love about the Gold Coast and it will be an incredible addition to our growing portfolio in one of the most vibrant property markets in the country. We continue to remain very confident in the high-end Gold Coast property market.”

Urban Activation Director Matt George is handling sales for The Eveleigh, having sold out The Emerson, The Hemingway, and Yves, all before construction was completed.

Melbourne builder MAXCON has already commenced construction on The Eveleigh. They are forecasting a mid-2028 completion.

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Hirsch & Faigen unveils The Eveleigh in Broadbeach

Two years after securing development approval for the final stage of its award-winning Thornton Precinct on the doorstep of Penrith Station, Urban Property Group is set to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/mayfair-on-penrith-172-lord-sheffield-circuit-penrith-nsw-2750">Mayfair on Penrith</a>, around 400 apartments designed to reflect two of Sydney’s most iconic structures.

The builder-developer has continued refining the design plans for the two-building development on a significant 8,280 sqm site on Sheffield Circuit, recognising the importance of the prime parcel as one of the closest developable sites to the station.

UPG enlisted architecture firm SJB to design the project. The team said they drew inspiration from both the General Post Office in Martin Place and East Circular Quay to help shape the design. The two-level colonnade, in particular, reflects the famous GPO building, which dates back to the 1860s.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136726 project_image_fid=362014]

There will be one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments on offer, with interiors by Cox Architecture. Residences will sit above a retail podium featuring hospitality and lifestyle operators such as One Playground and Volcano’s Steakhouse, contributing to an activated ground plane within the broader Thornton precinct.

A communal rooftop with a pool and views towards the Blue Mountains will provide shared open space for residents. The development is positioned between Ron Mulock Oval and Westfield Penrith, with the Nepean River and Great River Walk also nearby, placing daily amenity and green space within walking distance.

&nbsp;

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Mayfair is being delivered by Urban Property Group, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly 40 years’ experience across Sydney. The project will be the first in Penrith to be offered with Resilience Insurance’s 10-year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) policy, which Urban Property Group has adopted across a number of its recent developments. The developer also has a 4.5-star iCIRT rating, one of the best ratings in market providing further confidence to buyers.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said providing additional assurance to off-the-plan buyers has become increasingly important.

“Anything we can do to give confidence in our product is a plus,” Elias told Apartments.com.au.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. They’re making their single large investment, which is their home, and providing confidence is something that we feel is paramount.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136726 project_image_fid=362020]

The LDI policy provides a 10-year warranty covering structural defects, with independent inspections carried out during construction and protection for owners if defects arise post-completion.

Mayfair represents Urban Property Group’s sixth and final development within Thornton, consolidating the masterplanned precinct immediately east of the station.

The developer, which builds its own projects, has already commenced construction. SRM Residential is handling the sales campaign.

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Urban Property Group to close the curtain on award-winning Thornton precinct with Mayfair on Penrith release

St Albans

First home buyers are securing affordable homes at St Albans, thanks to Cedar Woods’ new St.A townhouse development. &nbsp;

The striking project, designed by DKO Architecture, features 254 two, three and four-bedroom homes which have been crafted to give residents an elevated lifestyle.

Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. &nbsp;

Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey and what she loves about St.A.

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MK: Where did you previously live and why are you moving to St.A?

JN: I currently live in Caroline Springs and decided to move to St.A because of the location. The area has already been largely developed with a train station within walking distance as well as great restaurants.

I spend so much time in the area already. So many of my family and friends live in St Albans and more of my friends are looking to buy in the area.

MK: Were you already looking for property when you discovered St.A?

JN: I’ve been looking for the last few months mainly at new developments around the Maribyrnong, Sunshine and St Albans areas.

<blockquote>
St.A appealed to me because of the price, distance from the city and amenity, available all within my budget.
</blockquote>

MK: What do you love most about what St.A has to offer residents?

JN:&nbsp;There is amazing food and a great community. The train station is a big factor for me, it is walking distance from St.A to the station, whereas right now I have to drive 20 minutes to the nearest station each day.

MK: Which townhome configuration did you opt for, and what led you to narrow down your decision?

JN: I purchased the Argyle townhome which has two-bedrooms, two-bathrooms and a single garage.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="372" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/argyle_0.png?itok=BwP0Dq2-" title="The Argyle floorplan" width="580" />

<figcaption>The Argyle floorplan</figcaption>
</figure>

Price was a big influence. I went through a mortgage broker who helped me figure out what I could afford, and I was thrilled that this was slightly under budget.

MK: What was it like negotiating with the sales agent and the team at Cedar Woods?

JN: Minh was really good to work with; he understood my non-negotiables and replied quickly to get the deal done.

MK: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

JN: I wanted to build and found that buying off-the-plan was a lot easier and stress-free. St.A is already a built-up area and I could see the quality and style of homes Cedar Woods delivered.

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MK: St A has impressive nearby amenity. Which amenity is your favourite?

JN: Definitely the restaurants. My favourite is Thuan Phat, I go there every week!

MK: As a first home buyer, how did you find the due diligence research and purchase process?

JN: I asked advice from family who told me to first go to a mortgage broker to understand my budget. I also watched a lot of YouTube videos and listened to podcasts on how to budget and save for my first deposit.

I was also looking at another development in Sunshine but I liked the St.A amenity more. It is already an established community, whereas the other is still a while away from feeling like a community.

MK: Did you have a set of criteria that your first home had to meet?

JN: I very much looked at this purchase as an investment as well as my first home and having two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a garage was a set requirement for me.

I personally wanted a backyard area as well and I had a preference for a downstairs living area.

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As this was my first home, it had to be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant as well as fit within my budget.

What advice would you have for other first home buyers?

JN: Research as much as you can and understand your budget [and] prepare for the expenses of home ownership as well!

MK: Is there anything else you would like to add about your new home or the area more generally? 

JN: St Albans is such a beautiful place; it has come a long way in recent years. It is such good value being so close to the city; the west is the next big thing!

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Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey 

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Why I purchased: The 24-year-old first home buyer of a two-bedroom townhouse at St Albans's St.A development by Cedar Woods

Cedar Woods delivers the first major masterplanned development in the popular community of St Albans with its latest project, St.A.

Designed by DKO Architecture, every home&nbsp;boasts architectural design in a well-serviced location, providing an ideal first home or investment to a range of buyers.

St.A features a six-star energy efficiency rating, as well as spacious layouts, ample&nbsp;storage and open-plan living areas.

There are currently six&nbsp;townhome&nbsp;designs available at the project. Urban takes a look at two of the different floorplans available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32167]

St.A features a six-star energy efficiency rating, as well as spacious layouts, amply storage and open-plan living areas.

According to Cedar Wood, there are currently s townhomes available at the project. Urban takes a look at five of the different floorplans available.

1. Argyle

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="776" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/argyle.png" width="1210" /></a>

With two residences available, Argyle design is a superbly appointed two-bedroom, two-bathroom townhome with open-plan living spaces.

Both homes are located&nbsp;on Cameron Lane within the stage 10 release of Cedar Woods&rsquo; St.A development.

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The turn-key home&nbsp;features include stone kitchen benchtops, stainless steel appliances, a rainwater tank, landscaping and high ceilings.

2. Sapphire IV

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="836" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sapphire_0.png" width="1310" /></a>

The Sapphire IV configuration provides another great family home for mulit-generational families seeking property in St Albans.

Two available homes feature this layout at Lot 904 and Lot 907, with frontage to Higgins Walk.

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Boasting three bedrooms, including one at ground level, 3.5 bathrooms, study area and a private courtyard, these light-filled homes are packed with great features including large lounge areas, landscaping and split-system air conditioning.

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Urban takes a look at five townhouse floorplans available at Cedar Wood's St Albans project, St. A

Floorplan focus: There are layouts to match every buyer at Cedar Woods’ St. A townhomes in St Albans

St A. in the heart of St Albans in Melbourne&#39;s north-west is the latest masterplanned townhouse community from the ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods.

The development delivers a family-friendly community, a landscaped central park and stunning designs by&nbsp;DKO&nbsp;Architecture.

Plus it&#39;s more than affordable for first home buyers, you can save up to $35,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32168]

Cedar Woods are offering six types of homes with bedrooms ranging from two to four.

They have Argyle II, Phoenix, Jasper, Amber (below), Sapphire IV and Novo III&nbsp;which all offering differing floorplans configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32167]

Townhouses start from just $499,000 for the two bedroom, two and a half bathroom townhouse in the Argyle II collection (pictured main).

The high end townhouse, The Phoenix, is priced at $695,000 and that has four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms and two parking spaces.

St A is located just 16 kilometres from Melbourne CBD and is within walking distance of schools, parks, Victoria University, public transport and the vibrant local village.

A landscaped central park is proposed at St.A, which will include a children&#39;s playground, barbeque shelter and open grassed areas for residents and the local community to enjoy.

It is set for completion in 2022.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7633]

St A. in the heart of St Albans in Melbourne's north-west is the latest masterplanned townhouse community from the ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods

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Find out how you could save up to $35,000 on your St. A. home

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St A, Cedar Woods’ new masterplanned community in St Albans in Melbourne's north-west, is attracting a wide range of buyers to its townhouse development.

Cedar Woods are offering buyers the opportunity to choose from six different floorplans, with each townhome ranging between two and four bedrooms.

Located in the burgeoning growth area, west of Melbourne’s CBD, St.A delivers a family-friendly community, a landscaped central park and stunning designs by DKO Architecture.

We recently spoke with Cedar Woods chief operations officer, Patrick Archer, to discuss the benefits of securing a townhome at St.A.

MK: Have you seen an increased demand in townhouse sales post-COVID-19? 

PA: St.A sales have seen a solid increase since late last year when restrictions eased and the economy showed signs of a solid recovery.

At the same time, the central park landscaping was installed and several stages of townhomes were completed so the project is looking amazing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633]

MK: What are the buyer demographics of owner-occupiers purchasing townhouse developments?

PA: It has been a very diverse mix of buyers but typically, it has been first home buyers who already live in the area. There’s also a good proportion of young families and downsizers.  

MK: What should homebuyers look for in the ideal townhouse development? 

PA: If 2020 has taught us anything it is that floorplan functionality is the make or break of a home. Quite a few of our purchasers have told us that this was one of the biggest selling points at St.A, a floorplan that has outdoor space and allows you to set up a home office which is important to purchasers.

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="2004" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sta-10-mckechnie-street-st-albans-9d1abe1b454fe77398ed1c690a5cfdf6_1.jpg" width="3000"></a>

MK: Do properties in St Albans hold long-term investment opportunities? 

PA: Melbourne’s western suburbs have been widely reported as the biggest opportunity for investors who want to make excellent returns.

St Albans is no exception and buyers at St.A are focused on the long term return on their investment with strong prospects for capital growth in a suburb that is so well serviced. 

MK: What does the project offer that other townhouse developments may not?

PA: St.A allows beautiful and architecturally designed homes, set around a large central park where neighbours can meet. These features and proximity to shops and transport is what makes St.A unique.

Also St.A is being developed by Cedar Woods, an ASX listed national property developer so buyers can rest assured that their homes will be delivered to a high standard. 

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="628" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st-a-10-mckechnie-street-st-albans-42e8b87e5367c66d772c8261833858a6_0.png" width="1200"></a>

Townhouses in the community start from just $499,000 for the two bedroom, two and a half bathroom townhouse in the Argyle II.

Buyers can choose from a number of other configurations, including Sapphire IV, Amber, Topaz II, Novo III, Argyle I and Jasper.
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Urban speaks with Cedar Woods COO, Patrick Archer, to discuss the benefits of securing a townhome at St.A

Why Cedar Woods’ St.A townhouses are appealing to first home buyers, young families and downsizers

St A. in the heart of St Albans in Melbourne&#39;s north-west is the latest masterplanned townhouse community from the ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods.

There are 254 homes in the community, designed by DKO Architecture.

Urban has taken a look at five reasons why St A should be on a townhouse buyers shortlist.

<h2>The Developer</h2>

Founded in 1987 and listed on the ASX&nbsp;since 1994, Cedar Woods is currently under the direction of Nathan Blackburne, and has been creating quality homes across&nbsp;Western Australian, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia for over three decades.

Late last year their&nbsp;Clayton South project Jackson Green was named&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s best new community development, winning &lsquo;Development of the Year &ndash; New Communities&rsquo; in The Urban Developer Awards.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633]

Cedar Woods diversified product mix ranges from land subdivisions in emerging residential communities, to medium and high-density apartments and townhouses in vibrant inner-city neighbourhoods and supporting retail and commercial developments.

They have a number of apartment developments currently in market in Williams Landing.

<h2>The Architect</h2>

DKO Architecture have designed the townhouses, recognising the importance of sustainability and the fragile nature of the Australian landscape.

The townhouse community&nbsp;benefits from efficient use of water and urban water renewal programs, green building principles and an ongoing commitment to environmental conservation and rehabilitation.

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans"><img alt="" height="746" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st_a_cedar_woods_living.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

DKO worked with Cedar Woods on the award-winning Jackson Green development.

The townhouses&nbsp;sit in landscaping from the award-winning landscaping firm Tract.

<h2>The Choice</h2>

Cedar Woods are offering six types of homes in the masterplanned community.

They have Argyle II, Phoenix, Jasper, Amber (below), Sapphire IV and Novo III&nbsp;which all offering differing floorplans configurations, with bedrooms ranging from two to four.

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans"><img alt="" height="901" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/amber_st_albans.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

<h2>The Location</h2>

St A is located just 16 kilometres from Melbourne CBD and is within walking distance of schools, parks, Victoria University, public transport and the vibrant local village.

A landscaped central park is proposed at St.A, which will include a children&#39;s playground, barbeque shelter and open grassed areas for residents and the local community to enjoy.

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans"><img alt="" height="801" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st_a_cedar_woods_location.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

<h2>The Price</h2>

Townhouses start from just $499,000 for the two bedroom, two and a half bathroom townhouse in the Argyle II collection (pictured main).

The high end townhouse, The Phoenix, is priced at $695,000 and that has four bedrooms, two and a half bathrooms and two parking spaces.

St A. in the heart of St Albans in Melbourne's north-west is the latest masterplanned townhouse community from the ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods.

Five reasons why buyers should consider a St A townhome in Melbourne's St Albans

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St. A is located in north-western Victoria, in the thriving suburb of St Albans. From St. A, residents can access Melbourne CBD in 30 minutes by car and 50 minutes by public transport, making this affordable development the perfect city fringe option for first home buyers and upsizers alike.

Here's what you can find within walking distance from St.A

<h2>EDUCATION</h2>

One of the great features of St. A is the walkability of the neighbourhood – with plenty of education options just a short stroll away. Victoria University's St Albans campus is a mere 12-minute walk, while St Albans Secondary College is 19-minutes away. Other schools in the area include: University Park Primary School, Jackson School, St Albans Meadows Primary School, St Albans Heights Primary School, Sunshine Park Estate Kindergarten and many more education centres in the surrounding neighbourhoods. 

<h2>SUPERMARKETS</h2>

St. A is perfectly positioned for all your grocery needs – being situated right on Gratz Street, means you can walk to the SUPA IGA supermarket and Woolworths in less than 10 minutes.

<h2>RETAIL</h2>

For retail shopping, enjoy a weekend amble to the local shopping mall – Brimbank Shopping Centre is a 38-minute walk while Cairnlea Town Centre is a 31-minute walk. Alternatively, you could drive and be there in less than 10 minutes, but the option is there if the weather is nice and you feel like a decent walk.

<h2>PARKS</h2>

There are also plenty of parks to choose from, 14 minutes walk south of St. A you'll find Stradbroke Drive Reserve which is equipped with plenty of outdoor exercise equipment. Walk north for 7 minutes and you'll reach McKechnie Reserve, and another 5 minutes will get you to Errington Reserve.

<h2>NATURE TRAILS</h2>

Brimbank Park Nature Trail is just a stone's throw from St. A, offering a well-designed loop track, which starts and finishes at the Parks Victoria office/cafe. This particular track includes both sealed and well-maintained gravel paths, making it a suitable walk for intermediate hikers. Dogs are allowed on this walking track but must be kept on a lead. If you're lucky, you might spot a long-necked tortoise in Taylor's Creek!

Brimbank Welcome Walk is another great track suitable for walkers of all experience levels. It's a steady contour that is mostly paved and shared by both pedestrians and cyclists. This walk has picnic spots, playgrounds, public toilets and seating available. Keep an eye out for Wallabies and Blue Fairy Wrens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633]

To learn more about the two, three and four-bedroom homes available for sale at St. A, <a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank">enquire today via Urban</a> and make the most of the great selection of grants and subsidies on offer before they expire.
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Olivia Round

Top amenities within walking distance from Cedar Woods' new development, St. A 

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In the recent property market dip, St Albans, Victoria all but avoided the fate of the rest of the Victoria market.
Since 2009 to present day, the value of a house in St Albans has increased by 100%. This is despite a small drop in house values since mid-2018 (seen below).
Apartment prices have seen a similar trend although with smaller growth overall and a less stable median price, according to the <a href="/developments/st-albans-vic-3021">latest data</a>.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/23/ST%20Albans%20data.JPG" alt="">
As of September 2019 the median house price in St Albans is $580,000, double the 2009 value of $290,000.
To learn all you need to know about St Albans, from median asking rents to household composition, <a href="/developments/st-albans-vic-3021">click here</a>. 
As a landlord it is important to check the asking rent trend regularly to ensure you are getting the most value out of your investment.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

What if you bought in St Albans 10 years ago? 100% gain

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A three bedroom one bathroom St Albans, Victoria house has been sold at auction.
The one storey house sold for $450,000.
Alex (Chau) Tran and Thomas (Thinh) Nguyen of Barry Plant held the listing.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-st+albans-131080610" target="_blank">70 Levenia Street</a>, it is described in the listing as an "amazing opportunity to knock down and build (S.T.C.A) or renovate".
Set on 697 sqm, the property is located 15 kms from the airport and 25 kms from the CBD.
Last offered to the market as a rental back in 2006 and never since, it sought $185/pw.
The property previously transacted in 2011 for $315,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
The median price for a home in <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-st+albans-131080610" target="_blank">St Albans</a> is $600,000 according to CoreLogic, the annual change in median price over the past 10 years is 7.9%.
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St Albans, Victoria home sold under mortgagee auction hammer

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A three bedroom St Albans, Victoria home has recently been sold for $485,000.
There was $410,000 to $450,000 pice guidance on the home last offered to market in 1992 at $32,000.
Thomas (Thinh) Nguyen and Alex (Chau) Tran of Barry Plant St Albans held the listing.
Set on a 454sqm allotment, the house at 7 Magnolia Street comprises three bedrooms, central bathroom, kitchen/meals area, floorboards and a carport.
It is within close proximity to schools, public transport, Ginifer Station, Sunshine Hospital and shops.
The median price for a house in<a href="/developments/st-albans-vic-3021"> St Albans</a> sits on $615,000, according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as eight percent.
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St Albans, Victoria mortgagee home sold for $485,000

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As Melbourne continues to experience unprecedented levels of population growth, housing affordability and urban sprawl are amongst some of the greatest challenges facing the city, with traffic congestion and long commute times on the rise. 

In response to this, the 20-minute city concept was proposed as part of the solution to addressing some of these issues and one which is increasingly being realised in Melbourne’s inner and middle ring suburbs with many choosing to live, work and play in close proximity.

Additionally many are adopting apartment living as a means of entering the housing market as an affordable alternative to traditional housing or renting.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/20min_neighbourhood.png" rel="gallery-all" title="The 20 minute neighbourhood. Image : DTPLI"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="479" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/20min_neighbourhood.png?itok=4xhgb5ND" title="The 20 minute neighbourhood. Image : DTPLI" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The 20-minute neighbourhood. Image: DTPLI</figcaption></figure>The 20-minute concept is one of the core focuses of the Andrews government’s Plan Melbourne blueprint for 2050, with the idea of creating a series of ‘20-minute neighbourhoods’, where people can access everything from work, recreation, schools and medical care all within 20 minutes from home. 

This has been evident in Cedar Woods' St Albans master planned community St.A, where a number of sales have gone to buyers wanting to live close to the amenity offered within the suburb.

The Maple Release, the latest release in St.A, is already 80 per cent sold since launching in March and so far the majority of sales have been to the owner-occupier market.

Phung Nguyen, a 28-year-old radiographer, and her partner recently purchased a four-bedroom townhouse in St.A, primarily due to its close proximity to her workplace as well as the best shops and amenity in the area.

<blockquote>
Our reasons for purchasing a property in St.A came down to the location. I work in several different hospitals in the western areas and this played a huge role in the locations we were looking at.

We plan on spending a majority of our time living locally. St.A is pretty much in the heart of the suburb, we will look to utilise local services on Alfrieda Street for day-today tasks such as dining out, groceries and the medical centre.

- Phung Nguyen
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st_albans.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Cedar Woods' St A development takes advantage of the 20-minute concept. Image : Cedar Woods"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="347" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/st_albans.jpg?itok=lFoBb3Jw" title="Cedar Woods' St A development takes advantage of the 20-minute concept. Image : Cedar Woods" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Cedar Woods' St A development takes advantage of the 20-minute concept. Image: Cedar Woods</figcaption></figure>In response to the issue of housing affordability Cedar Woods' other current master planned development - Jackson Green in Clayton South - has seen buyers choosing to buy an apartment instead of renting, with over 40 per cent of owner-occupier purchasers in Gardenia apartments first home buyers.

According to Cedar Woods Chief Operating Officer Patrick Archer, Gardenia apartments offer buyers, particularly young couples genuine chance to enter the property market.

Eloise Wilmann, a 27-year-old student and administration worker, and her fiancée Alex Lewis were tired of Melbourne’s expensive and unreliable rental market, and made the decision to purchase their first property together, a two-bedroom apartment at Gardenia for $539,000.

<blockquote>
Our mortgage repayments are likely to be around $2,200 per month, only slightly more than our $1,900 monthly rent in Clayton, and we don’t have to worry about being forced to move out with little notice or rental increase – which was due at our next lease renewal.

Both traditional houses as well as townhouses have always been out of our price range. We were delighted when we found the Gardenia apartments, they were still large but offered us a way in. My partner and I have wanted to enter the property market for some time now, but had not been in the right financial situation nor found somewhere we would be happy with. We love living in Clayton and wanted to purchase a property around this area that was affordable and suitable for our two dogs.

- Eloise Wilmann
</blockquote>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cwp007_gardenia_v03_courtyard_1200x550_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Gardenia Apartments at Jackson Green, Clayton South. Image : Cedar Woods"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="266" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/cwp007_gardenia_v03_courtyard_1200x550_0.jpg?itok=_66MUW1C" title="Gardenia Apartments at Jackson Green, Clayton South. Image : Cedar Woods" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Gardenia Apartments at Jackson Green, Clayton South. Image : Cedar Woods</figcaption></figure>A large factor in making the move to an apartment from a traditional house was the ground floor offerings at Gardenia compensated with a yard of similar size to most townhouses, says Wilmann.

Gardenia apartments range from 54 sqm to 78 sqm, with some including outdoors areas of up to 100 sqm.
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