<p data-end="587" data-start="368">Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.</p>

<p data-end="778" data-start="589">The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.</p>

<p data-end="907" data-start="780"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.</p>

<p data-end="1052" data-start="909">The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.</p>

<p data-end="1311" data-start="1054">The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.</p>

<p data-end="1451" data-start="1313">The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.</p>

<p data-end="1676" data-start="1453">MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.</p>

<p data-end="1908" data-start="1678">Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.</p>

<p data-end="2142" data-start="1910">The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.</p>

<p data-end="2142" data-start="1910"><img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" /></p>

<p data-end="2308" data-start="2144">MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.</p>

<p data-end="2648" data-start="2310">"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.</p>

<p data-end="2797" data-start="2650">"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."</p>

<p data-end="2938" data-start="2799">The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.</p>

<p data-end="3216" data-start="2940">Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.</p>

<p data-end="3325" data-start="3218">Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.</p>

<p data-end="3442" data-start="3327">"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.</p>

<p data-end="3662" data-start="3444">"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."</p>

<p data-end="3818" data-start="3664">MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.</p>

<p data-end="4076" data-start="3820">"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.</p>

<p data-end="4375" data-start="4078">"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."</p>

<p data-end="4503" data-start="4377">Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.</p>

<p data-end="4741" data-start="4505">"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."</p>

<p data-end="4910" data-start="4743">The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.</p>

<p data-end="4951" data-start="4912">MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.</p>


Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

<main data-perf-region="main">
<p data-end="600" data-start="394">Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.</p>

<p data-end="733" data-start="602">But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.</p>

<p data-end="970" data-start="735">Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.</p>

<p data-end="970" data-start="735">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]</p>

<p data-end="1159" data-start="972">The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.</p>

<p data-end="1357" data-start="1161">It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.</p>

<p data-end="1664" data-start="1517">Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.</p>

<p data-end="1826" data-start="1666">Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.</p>

<p data-end="1826" data-start="1666">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]</p>

<p data-end="2045" data-start="1828">Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.</p>

<p data-end="2269" data-start="2047">"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.</p>

<p data-end="2430" data-start="2271">A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.</p>

<p data-end="2606" data-start="2432">It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.</p>

<p data-end="2724" data-start="2608">At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.</p>

<p data-end="2892" data-start="2726">Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.</p>

<p data-end="2892" data-start="2726">[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]</p>

<p data-end="3004" data-start="2894">Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.</p>

<p data-end="3214" data-start="3006">"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.</p>

<p data-end="3400" data-start="3216">More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.</p>

<p data-end="3670" data-start="3538">&nbsp;</p>

<p data-end="3670" data-start="3538">[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]</p>

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>


Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

<p>A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.</p>

<p>Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.</p>

<p>Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]</p>

<p>The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.</p>

<p>Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.</p>

<p>Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]</p>

<p>Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.</p>

<p>“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]</p>

<p>“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”</p>

<p>The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]</p>


Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

<p data-end="535" data-start="324">Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.</p>

<p data-end="717" data-start="537">The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.</p>

<p data-end="918" data-start="719">The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.</p>

<p data-end="1131" data-start="920">PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.</p>

<p data-end="1131" data-start="920"><img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" /></p>

<p data-end="1318" data-start="1133">Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.</p>

<p data-end="1433" data-start="1320">The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.</p>

<p data-end="1658" data-start="1591">A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.</p>

<p data-end="1864" data-start="1660">More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.</p>

<p data-end="2011" data-start="1866">The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.</p>

<p data-end="2011" data-start="1866"><img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" /></p>

<p data-end="2191" data-start="2013">The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.</p>

<p data-end="2365" data-start="2193">PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.</p>

<p data-end="2473" data-start="2367">“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.</p>

<p data-end="2775" data-start="2475">“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”</p>

<p data-end="2943" data-start="2777">The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.</p>

<p data-end="3145" data-start="3001">PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.</p>


PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

<p>Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.</p>

<p>The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.</p>

<p>That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.</p>

<p>The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.</p>

<p>A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.</p>

<p>Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.</p>

<p>While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.</p>


First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

Sydney

<p>Due to its elite schooling, employment opportunities and natural beauty, Sydney remains popular amongst families searching for low maintenance apartments.</p>

<p>According to the last census, families with children were well represented in Australia&#39;s apartment-living population, a trend that is likely to continue.</p>

<p>Urban takes a look at six new three-bedroom apartments perfect for families in Sydney.</p>

<p><strong>1. Mason &amp; Main, Merrylands</strong><br />
Address: 249-258 Merrylands Road, Merrylands NSW 2160<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $879,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=161015]</p>

<p>Delivered by Coronation Property,&nbsp;Mason &amp; Main is Merryland&#39;s exciting new address, located on&nbsp;Merrylands Road. The home-sized apartments feature three bedrooms and three bathrooms, a large multipurpose room and generous balcony space, ideal for growing Sydney families.</p>

<p>Just 350 metres&nbsp;to Merrylands train station and just three kilometres from Parramatta CBD, residents will be connected to western Sydney&#39;s&nbsp;leading schools, such as The Kings School and Tara Anglican School for Girls, as well as&nbsp;leading universities.</p>

<p><strong>2. Portman House, Green Square</strong><br />
Address: 77-93 Portman Street, Zetland NSW 2017<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,540,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=30049 project_image_fid=162880]</p>

<p>Mirvac&#39;s latest inner-city development is located just seven kilometres from the Sydney CBD and includes a luxury wellness centre, making it an ideal home for busy parents searching for convenience. Zetland&#39;s abundance of amenities, schools and green spaces will suit children, young to old.</p>

<p>Designed by Mirvac&#39;s in-house design term, Portman House&#39;s art deco-inspired architecture provide a new level of luxury with lavish kitchens, generous balconies and high contrast interiors.</p>

<p><strong>3. Bloom Arncliffe</strong><br />
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $950,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201 project_image_fid=89015]</p>

<p>With construction on Bloom Arncliffe recently completed, families are able to move-in to a ready-to-go three-bedroom apartment.</p>

<p>For parents who have to work from home, each residence offers a dedicated study room for your remote working endeavours, as well as views of Botany Bay and connections to Sydney&rsquo;s train lines.</p>

<p><strong>4. Park Sydney, Erskineville</strong><br />
Address: 149-163 Mitchell Road, Erskineville NSW 2043<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,711,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=5811]</p>

<p>One of the most significant new residential development Sydney-wide, Park Sydney offers considered design and communal amenities to families looking for a community feel and established neighbourhood.</p>

<p>Boasting an unbeatable location, the development is located just four-kilometres from the Sydney CBD and an easy walk to Erskineville Station. Close to top universities, major employment hubs and elite schools, such as Newington College, Park Sydney meets the needs of the whole family.</p>

<p>The masterplanned community includes 7,400 sqm of parkland and play areas with BBQ facilities, amphitheatres, walkways and cycleways.</p>

<p><strong>5. The Retreat, Lidcombe</strong><br />
Address: 11 Carter Street, Lidcombe NSW 2141<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $950,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=25940]</p>

<p>Developed by Meriton, the 22-storey Retreat deliver timeless design and functional layouts, offering families a practical sense of home in the rapidly evolving lifestyle hub of Sydney Olympic Park.</p>

<p>Multiple leisure facilities such as its first-rate aquatic centre, tennis centre and adventure parks, offer something for all the family, and the close-by Parramatta CBD provides enviable employment opportunities.</p>

<p><strong>6. Pavilions, Sydney Olympic Park</strong><br />
Address: 2 Figtree Drive, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127<br />
Three-bedroom apartments from $1,495,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363 project_image_fid=89976]</p>

<p>Nestled amongst verdant parklands, Pavilions&nbsp;offers the unique opportunity to step into the&nbsp;family-friendly lifestyle in Sydney&rsquo;s west. The apartments boast spacious floorplans&nbsp;and 4,500sqm of resident-only courtyard, providing the space growing families need.</p>

<p>Designed by Mirvac and BVN Architects, the apartments also feature world-class amenity, including a state-of-the-art gymnasium, community room, and a multifunction space with dedicated playground&nbsp;that your kids are bound to enjoy.</p>


According to the last census, families with children were well represented in Australia's apartment-living population, a trend that is likely to continue

max.kwok_55688

June 2021: Six new three-bedroom apartments perfect for families in Sydney

<html><body>
<p>Coronavirus-impacted “pockets” of Sydney’s north-west and inner-south-west have seen falling median values create opportunities for first home buyers, according to CoreLogic head of research, Eliza Owen.</p>

<p>Although Australia’s residential property market has shown resilience, despite the shock of the pandemic, recent value falls may have created an opportunity for first home buyers who want to take advantage of the first home loan deposit scheme (FHLDS).</p>

<p>On February 3, minister for housing Michael Sukkar announced the reissue of around 1,800 FHLDS places, creating opportunity in suburbs where unit medians have slipped below the Sydney threshold of $700,000.</p>

<p>As of January 2021, there was an average of 107 suburbs observed in the capital cities with a median value at or below the qualifying threshold for the FHLDS, assuming the application is for an established property.</p>

<p>In Sydney, where international border closures have created a particular demand shock, median unit values have declined up to -$88,146 between March 2020 and January 2021.</p>

<p><a href="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png"><img alt="" height="860" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png" width="1446"></a></p>

<p><a href="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/corelogic_0.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge image.</p>

<p>As evident in CoreLogic’s data, Rouse Hill had a pre-pandemic median value at $726,900, which has fallen to just $638,755. While other suburbs like Arncliffe and Hurstville have seen changes in median value at -$31,185 and -$65,019, respectively.  </p>

<p>“As more of the housing market is caught in a broad-based upswing, first home buyers could face more challenges getting into the market in the year ahead”, Owen said.<br>
 </p>

<h2>Sydney units listed at or below the qualifying threshold for the FHLDS<strong> </strong>
</h2>

<p><strong>1. Beyond, Hurstville</strong><br>
Address: 93 Forest Road, Hurstville NSW 2220<br>
One-bedroom apartments (with study) from $685,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]</p>

<p>Developed by Fridcorp, Beyond’s one-bedroom apartments are listed below the $700,000 qualifying threshold for the first home loan deposit scheme.  </p>

<p>The Woods Bagot and DKO Architecture-designed project features sculptural architecture, multi-sensory living, oversized balconies and a 4,500sqm retail precinct anchored by Woolworths.<br>
 </p>

<p><strong>2. Bloom Arncliffe</strong><br>
Address: 213 Princes Highway, Arncliffe NSW 2205<br>
One-bedroom apartments from $595,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]</p>

<p>The recently completed residential precinct, Bloom Arncliffe, offers 318 apartments across seven buildings, starting from $595,000 – well below the deposit scheme’s price cap.</p>

<p>Delivered by Wingate and designed by Stephen Bowers Architects, the development includes 37 commercial spaces, a youth centre, gym and support facilities.</p>
</body></html>

Recent value falls may have created an opportunity for first home buyers who want to take advantage of the first home loan deposit scheme

The Sydney suburbs now qualifying for First Home Loan Deposit Scheme after price falls

<html><body>
<p>Apartment values in Sydney continued to decline over January, posting -0.1 per cent losses, according to data analytics firm CoreLogic.</p>

<p>It follows a -0.1 per cent loss over December and -0.7 per cent in November.</p>

<p>The decline sees the unit market in the harbour city the worst quarterly performer across the country, with values down one per cent, the only apartment market to have seen declines.</p>

<p>Sydney's median apartment value now sits at $734,198. There was some good news for apartment investors who were given a boost over the month. Unit rents rose 0.8 per cent, the first month on month rise since March last year.</p>

<p>Unit rents had declined 5.6 per cent over the past year.</p>

<p>Urban has taken a look at three apartments blocks to secure under the median apartment value.</p>

<h2>Beyond, Hurstville</h2>

<p>Price: One bedroom apartments starting from $585,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6798]</p>

<p>The Hurstville apartment complex Beyond, developed by Fridcorp, has both of its one bedroom apartments less than Sydney's median apartment price. One beds start from $585,000, while a one bed with study and a parking spot starts from $685,000. Two bedroom apartments are priced from $845,000.</p>

<p>Due for completion this year, Beyond has been designed by DKO Architecture and features Wellness by Fridcorp, Australia's first first precinct designed as a holistic environment that nurtures social, emotional and physical wellness. There's also a 4,500 sqm Beyond retail precinct anchored by Woolworths.</p>

<h2>Bloom Arncliffe</h2>

<p>Price: Two bedroom apartments from $710,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201]</p>

<p>Buyers can secure a two bedroom apartment in the completed Bloom Arncliffe apartments by developer Wingate in Sydney's south for less than Sydney's median apartment price. One bedrooms start from $595,000 and three bedrooms are priced from $950,000.</p>

<p>The 318 apartments across seven buildings designed by EJE Architecture and built by Richard Crookes Construction are part of the $136 development which also features 36 commercial spaces and a youth centre with basketball courts, a gym and support facilities.</p>

<h2>Kew Schofields Stage 2- Georgette</h2>

<p>Price: Two bedrooms apartments from $570,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227]</p>

<p>In Georgette, stage two of Kew Schofields on the edge of Sydney's urban sprawl buyers can secure the most expensive apartment for nearly $170,000 under Sydney's median apartment price. The priciest two bedroom apartment, which comes with a study, two bathrooms and a parking spot, is priced from $570,000.</p>

<p>And apartments in Georgette, developed by Positive Investment Enterprise and designed by PBD Architects, are eligible for the $15,000 HomeBuilder grant. Georgette is set for completion later this year.</p>

<p> </p>
</body></html>

The decline sees the unit market in the harbour city the worst quarterly performer across the country, with values down one per cent, the only apartment market to have seen declines.



Sydney apartment median value down -0.1% in January: What you can buy for the new median

<html><body>
<p>The prime residential forecasts for the 30 cities in Savills World Cities Prime Residential Index highlight the strength of prime residential property.</p>

<p>Average growth for the cities in the index is forecast at 1.6% for 2021. Sentiment is improving as the rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine begins in many countries and, despite the uncertainties which still linger, prime residential property is expected to remain an active market.</p>

<p>The resilience of prime residential markets was highlighted during the second half of 2020. Savills World Cities Prime Residential Index recorded an average increase of 0.8% for the cities in the index at a time when global GDP is recovering from the impact of Covid-19 and subsequent lockdowns.</p>

<p>Many of the factors which helped drive the prime residential market in the second half of 2020 are expected to continue into 2021, including low stock levels in some locations and the desire for more space.</p>

<p>Historically low interest rates, which are expected to remain low for some time, also make the sector attractive for wealth preservation. These factors, and the sector’s strong fundamentals, mean positive price growth is expected in 19 cities, compared with nine that are expected to see small price falls.</p>

<p><img alt="" height="636" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/savills_world_performance_2021.jpg" width="1200"></p>

<p>Source: Savills Research</p>

<h2>The high fliers: +6%</h2>

<p>Of the cities in the Savills World Cities Prime Residential Index, Seoul saw the strongest growth during 2020 with prices increasing 8.6%. This strong performance is expected to continue over the coming year. The market remains on an upward trend, driven by high demand from historically low interest rates, strong economic performance and short supply.</p>

<p>Berlin and Sydney are the next strongest performers. The German capital has been on an upward trend with high levels of demand that exceed supply. Sydney has seen comparatively weaker performance in recent years but is expected to improve in 2021 as economic activity picks up.</p>

<h2>The strong contenders: +4-6%</h2>

<p>Guangzhou is expected to see the highest growth out of the Chinese cities in the index over the coming year. The city is benefitting from urban regeneration projects as well as its proximity to comparatively higher-valued Shenzhen.</p>

<p>In the USA, as with many Western markets, the search for more space was a pandemic-driven trend during 2020. This is expected to continue over the coming year, benefiting cities that offer space, such as Miami.</p>

<p>Miami also has particularly attractive tax advantages. Should the rise in remote working continue, those who no longer need to stay in one location for work may find Miami appealing.</p>

<p>Mumbai has seen stamp duty changes over the past year. The forecast growth in Mumbai, driven by the stamp duty reduction and low mortgage rates, follows price falls due to an oversupply.</p>

<h2>The steady cities: &gt;0-4%</h2>

<p>Despite the headwinds of 2020, supply remains a significant influencer of price movements. Many cities that expected to see positive growth of up to 4% in 2021 are markets characterised by low supply levels, e.g. San Francisco, Amsterdam and Tokyo.</p>

<p>London’s prime market is expected to see a turnaround, with forecast growth underpinned by the value on offer compared with its peak in 2014.</p>

<p>The Chinese cities of Shanghai, Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Beijing are expected to see growth of between 0% and 4%. These markets have performed well in 2020 as economic activity returned. Residential is seen as a safe investment, which is expected to continue in 2021. Beijing has a slightly weaker forecast than the other cities in China due to heavy local regulation.</p>

<h2>A softening of prices: -2-0%</h2>

<p>Some prime residential markets are more reliant on international demand than others. For these markets, travel restrictions have hindered performance during the past year. While vaccine news does bolster optimism for the return of travel, a number of markets that are driven by international demand, including Dubai, Kuala Lumpur and Lisbon, are expected to see a slight softening of prices over the coming year. Lower international demand is also expected to impact the prime market in Paris.</p>

<p>A weaker economic environment is expected to impede growth in a number of cities in Southern Europe, including Milan, Rome, Barcelona and Madrid, while oversupply also continues to play a role for a few cities in this price growth tier, namely Bangkok and Dubai.</p>

<h2>Down, but not out: &lt;-2%</h2>

<p>In Hong Kong, the highest valued city in our index, prices have been impacted by political uncertainty. Prime values are expected to continue their downward trend over the coming year.</p>

<p>New York’s prime market has been on a downward trend in recent years due to oversupply. The pandemic has also caused a temporary move away from densely populated urban living – whether this becomes a long-term trend, however, still remains to be seen.</p>

<p>Sean Hyett is an analyst for Savills World Research</p>
</body></html>

Sydney forecast to sit among the 2021 residential high fliers: Savills

<html><body>
<p>CoreLogic’s best of the best 2020 report has revealed that the highest median unit value was found in Point Piper, as with 2019.</p>

<p>The report revealed Australia’s $7.2 trillion residential real estate market proved resilient in the face of a global pandemic, leaving an overall positive market outlook for 2021.</p>

<p>Eliza Owen, CoreLogic’s head of research, said the report highlighted the resilience of luxury markets in Australia.</p>

<blockquote>
<p><strong>“This is not to say these suburbs have been unaffected by the pandemic; indeed the high end of the Sydney market is generally more volatile to changes in economic conditions. However, this volatility also tends to see a rapid recovery in the wake of lower mortgage rates and an improvement in consumer sentiment.”</strong></p>
</blockquote>

<p>All ten of suburbs listed amongst the nation’s best for unit value were located in Sydney, with Point Piper taking the top spot with a median unit value exceeding $2.28 million.</p>

<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/units.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/units.png?itok=UMi3PAjN" title="Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic</figcaption></figure><p>Darling Point took the second spot, with 78 units sold throughout the year and a median value of $1.785 million.</p>

<p>Sydney’s eastern suburbs performed well across the board, with Darling Point, Bellevue Hill and Vaucluse taking the three top spots for highest median house value. Double Bay, Tamarama, Rose Bay and Dover Heights also made the top ten.</p>

<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/houses.png" rel="gallery-all" title="Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="352" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/houses.png?itok=V9K-dHl0" title="Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Top performing capital city suburbs. Source: CoreLogic</figcaption></figure><h2>Here are two luxury apartments you can secure in Sydney’s high-performing eastern suburbs</h2>

<p><strong>1. <a href="/buildings/marmont-319-new-south-head-road-double-bay">Marmont</a>, Double Bay</strong><br>
Address: 219 New South Head Road, Double Bay NSW 2028<br>
Two-bedroom apartments from $2,595,000</p>

<p><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/marmont.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="346" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/marmont.jpg?itok=JI7D4JMZ" width="580"></a></p>

<p>Expected to reach completion early 2021, Fortis’ latest Double Bay project offers an exciting opportunity to secure a two or three-bedroom residence in Sydney’s inner-eastern suburbs.</p>

<p>Designed by MHNDUnion, Marmont features floor-to-ceiling glazed windows, views across the harbour and extensive terrace balconies.<br>
 </p>

<p><strong>2. <a href="/buildings/dusk-625-627-old-south-head-road-rose-bay">Dusk</a>, Rose Bay</strong><br>
Address: 625-627 Old South Head Road, Rose Bay NSW 2029<br>
Two-bedroom apartments from $1,795,000</p>

<p><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/dusk.jpeg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dusk.jpeg?itok=p7dBDFYv" width="580"></a></p>

<p>Located in the heart of the high-performing Rose Bay, Dusk hosts nine two and three-bedroom apartments just six-kilometres from the Sydney CBD.</p>

<p>The exclusive harbourside residence, delivered by Maestro Rosebay, offers private views, considered interiors and an architecturally-designed façade by Bureau SRH.</p>
</body></html>

Sydney's Point Piper boasts Australia's highest median unit value, according to CoreLogic’s best of the best 2020 report. 

Point Piper hosts Australia’s priciest apartments: CoreLogic 

<p>Whether your&nbsp;children have moved out or you&#39;re wanting to save money, downsizing provides a great option for couples of all ages &ndash; but downsizing doesn&#39;t have to mean downgrading.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With Sydney&#39;s luxury market proving resilient following the coronavirus pandemic, many buyers are seeing the benefit of investing in a high-end development at affordable prices.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Below&nbsp;are nine of the best downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney to help you on your journey towards finding a new home.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>1. <a href="/buildings/polo-collection-55-rothschild-avenue-rosebery">Polo Collection</a>, Rosebery</strong><br />
Address: 55 Rothschild Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $710,000</p>

<p><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/polo-collection-55-rothschild-avenue-rosebery" rel="gallery-all" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/polo_collection.jpg?itok=KAk-HRy4" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Meriton&rsquo;s Polo Collection offers downsizers the chance to remain close to the CBD and enjoy luxury living in a brand new architecturally designed apartment.</p>

<p>Comprising 275 luxury apartments across four buildings, the development offers dynamic and elegant living, green vistas and floor-to-ceiling glass windows, designed by SJB Architects.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7588]</p>

<p><strong>2. <a href="/buildings/alex-collective-alexandria-163-173-mcevoy-street-alexandria-nsw-2015">Alex Collective</a>, Alexandria</strong><br />
Address: 163-173 McEvoy Street, Alexandria NSW 2015<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $750,000</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/alex-collective-alexandria-163-173-mcevoy-street-alexandria-nsw-2015"><img alt="" height="2160" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/alexcollec.jpeg" width="3189" /></a></p>

<p>In the neighbouring suburb of Alexandria, 163 apartments in one, two and three-bedroom configurations are set to be delivered by Ceerose, boasting floor-to-ceiling storage, bay windows and a balcony fringed by greenery.</p>

<p>Tastefully designed by Andrew Burns Architecture, Alex Collective features concrete-inspired stone benchtops, sandstone-toned joinery and integrated black glass ovens, bringing a warm and contemporary aesthetic with an industrial edge.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29785]</p>

<p><strong>3. <a href="/buildings/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore">Cornerstone</a>, Belmore</strong><br />
Address: 717-727 Canterbury Road, Belmore NSW 2192<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $655,000</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/cornerstone-717-727-canterbury-road-belmore"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cornerstone.jpg" width="1200" /></a></p>

<p>Whilst further from the offerings of the CBD, Sydney&rsquo;s inner-south-west provides the ideal downsizer location, boasting a tight-knit community and, soon, the proposed Belmore metro station.</p>

<p>Delivered by ALAND, Cornerstone features high ceilings, open-plan kitchens, alfresco dining areas and recessed balconies. Ground floor retail space and local parkland activate the residence.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=9188]</p>

<p><strong>4. <a href="/buildings/lighthouse-9-17-howard-avenue-dee-why">Lighthouse</a>, Dee Why</strong><br />
Address: 9-17 Howard Avenue, Dee Why NSW 2099<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $935,000</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/lighthouse-9-17-howard-avenue-dee-why"><img alt="" height="474" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/lighthouse.jpg" width="1024" /></a></p>

<p>Situated in Dee Why&rsquo;s new retail hub, Meriton&rsquo;s Lighthouse development offers the tallest towers in the Northern Beaches suburb.</p>

<p>Complete and ready to move in, the development is built over four buildings and offers views of the ocean, beach and lagoon. Downsizers or retirees will enjoy the convenience of this development, located nearby ocean shores and within 35 minutes to Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6337]</p>

<p><strong>5. <a href="/new-apartments/trilogy-112-talavera-road-macquarie-park">Destination</a>, Macquarie Park</strong><br />
Address: 114 Talavera Road, Macquarie Park NSW 2113<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $600,000</p>

<p><a href="/new-apartments/trilogy-112-talavera-road-macquarie-park"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/destination.jpg" width="1920" /></a></p>

<p>Located within NSW&rsquo;s second largest business district, Destination offers lots of opportunity to downsizers hoping to take advantage of Macquarie Park&rsquo;s competitive advantages, including its proximity to Macquarie University.</p>

<p>Delivered by Meriton and designed by DKO Architecture, Destination offers serene garden terraces, timeless design and views from every angle.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=8669]</p>

<p><strong>6. <a href="/buildings/moseley-17-21-moseley-street-carlingford">Moseley</a>, Carlingford</strong><br />
Address: 17-21 Moseley Street, Carlingford NSW 2118<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $752,900</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/moseley-17-21-moseley-street-carlingford"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/moseley.jpg" width="1200" /></a></p>

<p>Still located in the City of Ryde, and close-by Epping Station is the affordable Moseley project by H&amp;T Group. The 41 one, two and three-bedroom apartments match the needs of families, downsizers and young professionals with contemporary design, modern silhouettes and amenities.</p>

<p>The apartment offers private storage, a gym, communal entertaining areas and an electric charging dock.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=25486]</p>

<p><strong>7. Elle, Waitara</strong><br />
Address: 53 Balmoral Street, Waitara NSW 2077<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $749,000</p>

<p><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/elle_.jpg" width="1200" /></p>

<p>Located on Sydney&rsquo;s Upper North Shore, Elle provides a prime location for downsizers to enjoy the convenience and style of elite suburban living.</p>

<p>The new residential community boasts free-flowing contemporary living options and landscaped garden space, delivered by Developcorp. Elle is minutes to public transport, quality private schools and Hornsby shops.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29140]</p>

<p><strong>8. <a href="/buildings/park-avenue-waitara-16-20-park-avenue-waitara">Park Avenue</a>, Waitara</strong><br />
Address: 16-20 Park Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $649,000</p>

<p><a href="/buildings/park-avenue-waitara-16-20-park-avenue-waitara"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/park_av.jpg" width="1200" /></a></p>

<p>Also located in the fast-growing is Park Avenue, offering one and two-bedroom configurations, ideal for investors or downsizers. The spacious residence is located in proximity to Hornsby&rsquo;s amenities.</p>

<p>The residences offer practical layouts, balconies, spacious bedrooms and the relaxed lifestyle of the Upper North Shore community.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29538]</p>

<p><strong>9. <a href="/new-townhouses/collection-rouse-hill-49-terry-road-rouse-hill">Collection</a>, Rouse Hill</strong><br />
Address: 49 Terry Road, Rouse Hill NSW 2155<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $399,000</p>

<p><a href="/new-townhouses/collection-rouse-hill-49-terry-road-rouse-hill"><img alt="" height="548" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/rouse-hill-1.jpg" width="987" /></a></p>

<p>Downsizing doesn&rsquo;t have to mean smaller either. Collection provides 311 residences in one, two and three-bedroom configurations in Sydney&rsquo;s growing north-west region.</p>

<p>Designed by DKO Architecture, the master-planned offers spacious open-plan layouts, generous entertainer balconies and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and Berowra Valley National Park.</p>

<p>Rouse Hill&rsquo;s town centre boasts an abundance of amenities and retail offerings, as well as a new metro station that connects residents to Castle Hill, Chatswood and Sydney&rsquo;s CBD.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6284]</p>


Here are nine apartments on the market in Sydney to match the needs of downsizing couples

Nine of the best downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney

<p>A&nbsp;new&nbsp;wave of luxury apartment living has arrived in Sydney, with&nbsp;buyers seeking high-end&nbsp;amenities and elegant design from new developments.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With many projects now offering communal dining spaces and restaurants on their ground floors, we took a&nbsp;look at five Sydney apartments boasting the&nbsp;most lavish dining areas.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>1. <a href="/buildings/king-phillip-148-160-king-street-sydney">King &amp; Phillip</a>, Sydney</strong><br />
Address: 148-160 King Street, Sydney NSW 2000</p>

<p><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/kingphillip.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="358" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/kingphillip.jpg?itok=SbP0GjXW" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Formerly the site of the University of Sydney Law School building, the soon to be completed King &amp; Phillip development offers lavish living for Sydney&rsquo;s elite. Delivered by Galileo, the 26-storey building is inspired by nearby colonial-era architecture, featuring natural materials and colonnade.</p>

<p>The luxury development boasts alfresco dining will under the colonnade and Phillip Street terrace, as well as private residents&rsquo; dining and lounge. The aesthetic appeal and timeless quality of the exterior continues seamlessly throughout the residences&rsquo; interiors.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=5938]</p>

<p><strong>2. <a href="/buildings/opera-residences-71-macquarie-street-sydney">Opera Residences</a>, Sydney</strong><br />
Address: 71 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000</p>

<p><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/operaresidences.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="425" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/operaresidences.jpg?itok=bYGBfocm" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Amongst Sydney&rsquo;s most luxurious developments on the market today is Macrolink and Landream&rsquo;s Opera Residences. The 19-storey tower offers 104 high-end apartments in Bennelong Point and boasts luxury finishes including Calacatta marble, Gold Portoro marble and travertine.</p>

<p>Designed by Crone Architects, the project will include four levels of restaurant, retail and dining space, with views over the Harbour Bridge, Opera House and the Botanical Gardens.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6012]</p>

<p><strong>3. <a href="/buildings/the-lennox-12-phillip-street-parramatta">The Lennox</a>, Parramatta</strong><br />
Address: 12 Phillip Street, Parramatta NSW 2150</p>

<p><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/the-lennox-exterior.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="435" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-lennox-exterior.jpg?itok=plV9o672" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Bordering the Parramatta River and rising 152-metres is Aoyuan International&rsquo;s the Lennox. Featuring luxurious private dining and lounge spaces, as well as ground floor boardwalk restaurants, the Lennox brings countless amenities and luxury to Western Sydney living.</p>

<p>Designed by Marchese Partners, the development boasts floor-to-ceiling glazed windows, winter gardens and a 25-metre lap pool.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743]</p>

<p><strong>4. <a href="/buildings/castle-residences-sydney-116-castlereagh-street-sydney">Castle Residences</a>, Sydney</strong><br />
Address: 203 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000</p>

<p><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/castleresidences.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/castleresidences.jpg?itok=9l6s6P0w" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Castle Residences merges high-end apartments with five-star luxury hotel services and amenities, with construction including the refurbishment of the 142-year-old heritage-listed Porter House building.</p>

<p>Designed by Candalepas Associates, the development offers luxurious dining areas, private dining spaces and in-residence catering. Manhattan-style apartments overlook Hyde Park and timeless sculptural alcoves and arches bring together historical and contemporary architecture.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758]</p>

<p><strong>5. Central at the Langston, Epping</strong><br />
Address: 12-22 Langston Place, Epping NSW 2121</p>

<p><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/sky_lounge.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="291" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/sky_lounge.jpg?itok=PpHiYAYU" width="580" /></a></p>

<p>Central, the Langston&rsquo;s second stage, offers lavish amenities and luxury residences in Sydney&rsquo;s Epping community. With move-in scheduled for later this year, residents will enjoy the development&rsquo;s Sky Lounge &amp; Dining terrace, as well as a 20-metre pool and wellness hub.</p>

<p>Designed by Architectus, Central offers 180 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 24 storeys, featuring premium appliances, full-height timber-look cabinetry and more than 2,000sqm of communal landscaped gardens.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29936]</p>

<h2><strong>NSW properties selling now:</strong></h2>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=29392]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7588]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6656]</p>


Here are five of Sydney's most lavish communal dining areas offered within apartments on the market right now

Five Sydney apartments with the most lavish communal dining

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<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">Most of the price data that clutters up the airways is essentially useless information.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">Boffins sitting in an office in Paris look at a number which says “Australian property values rose 9% in the past year” and imagine that tells them something about conditions in the fictitious creature they call the Australian property market.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">Suddenly we have the OECD telling us we’re at risk of a price correction after gazing at Australia through an out-of-focus telescope across a distance of 17,000km. Seriously, these turkeys have no right to even express an opinion. Especially as that opinion is based on a meaningless statistic.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">I’ve read in the past two weeks at least five different figures purporting to describe the median cost of the home in Sydney, ranging from $750,000 to $1 million.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">Most of them are fanciful and inaccurate but that doesn’t stop commentators from giving them enormous import. The walking talking ego generally known as Graham Richardson pontificated that the average Sydney home cost a million dollars and declared that no one could afford that. The statement was inherently absurd because if the Sydney market is raging and a million dollars is the median price, clearly a lot of people can afford it because half of all sales are higher than that median figure.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">The bottom line is: the average, mean or median is not a million dollars. CoreLogic RP Data’s latest figures suggest the median dwelling price for Sydney is currently $752,000. The other bottom line is that this figure is meaningless and misleading when you understand that Sydney has over 700 suburbs with median house prices ranging from $345,000 to $3.46 million.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">It’s particularly meaningless and misleading in this context: first-home buyers can’t afford to pay $752,000 therefore, according to the misinformed, we have an affordability crisis which means we need to scrap negative gearing, ban foreign investment, cut out all first-home buyer grants because apparently they just inflate prices, introduce lending restrictions, call another federal parliamentary inquiry because the 18-month inquiry recently concluded didn’t discover anything new and savage the Federal Treasurer for daring to suggest a good job enhances your prospects of getting a loan.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">The end result: truth, accuracy, balance and fair play just took another hammering - but, hey, lots of newspapers got sold.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">The latest edition of Market Monitor from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland highlights how unhelpful it is to quote a single price statistic for an entire large city.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">CoreLogic RP Data says the home value index for the Greater Brisbane area rose 3.1% in the past 12 months. Domain says the median house price increased 2.8%.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">What do you deduce from that? That the Brisbane market is lukewarm? That growth in the city is anaemic at best? Richardson, in his irresponsible outburst on Sky News last week, declared Brisbane had recorded “no growth for years”.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">You have to look deeper, otherwise you’re wasting everyone’s time.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">Market Monitor shows the median house price for the Brisbane City local government area rose 7.2% in the year to April. So the Brisbane City Council area has been better than the wider Brisbane metropolitan area.</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">And many individual suburbs did considerably better than that. Northgate grew 12.7% and Holland Park 13.5%, while Chermside rose 18.4% and Nudgee 17.3%.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">A scan of the figures suggests that the middle market suburbs of Brisbane City have done much better than the LGA average, which in turn in much higher than the Greater Brisbane average result.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">But media quotes the area average rise, which creates a quite misleading impression.</span></p>
<p class="Body"><span class="Body__Char">If you take the time to look through a report like Market Monitor, there are hundreds of stories about suburban and town markets, all doing different things influenced by local events - oblivious to the level of interest rates or the ignorance of media talking heads or the pompous proclamations of twits working for a bureaucracy based in Europe.</span></p>
<p><em>TERRY RYDER is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a> </em></p>
<p>Terry was joined by <em>Property Observer</em> editor at large Jonathan Chancellor yesterday for a webinar on why research is the key to successful property investing in 2015. You can download slides and audio from the webinar here.</p>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Accurate price data or useless information? Terry Ryder

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<div><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">There's a lot of drivel written about the supply response in Sydney causing a serious property market correction.</span></div>
<div> </div>
<div>It really depends on what property type and locations you're talking about.<br><br>
</div>
<div>Sure, I don't doubt that some of those buying new apartments off the plan in parts of the inner south will see prices fall.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>That's more or less certain to happen when the downturn phase of the cycle ticks around. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There are some other areas where the market will be flooded by new apartments too, such as around parts of North Sydney.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There's nothing new or surprising about this.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>But as an owner of property in a suburb like Pyrmont - where the supply of new sites has been totally depleted - it's hard to get too excited by the babble in the media.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Prices in these parts will only be materially impacted by a lack of capacity to pay, which means very high interest rates (nah) or high unemployment (the unemployment rate in Pyrmont-Ultimo has increased from 2.8% to 2.9% over the past year).<br><br>A fair proportion of units are investor owned, of course, but in the current low interest rate environment cash flows are strong, while vacancy rates remain very low.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Capped supply</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>To be quite blunt, it has long been obvious that property prices in Pyrmont would soar. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>With the population of Greater Sydney increasing by around 84,200 or so persons per annum - give or take - the demand side of the equation more or less takes care of itself in such a prime location suburb. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As for new supply...well, there isn't any. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There is none, because there is nowhere left to build.</div>
<div>
<br>Actually, strictly speaking that's not quite true.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A <a href="/news">DA was lodged</a> to develop a few dozen apartments at 97 Pyrmont Bridge Road back in May 2013.</div>
<div>
<br>And down the road in the adjacent suburb of Ultimo there was a development application lodged in 2014 to build 50 apartments on Harris Street.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>So, there might be a very slight trickle of new supply in the area.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>But even though Harris Street is a pretty busy thoroughfare, land prices in these parts have been exploding higher over recent years, and ultimately the price of property is a derivative of the land that sits thereunder.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The 485 Harris development fetched some $63 million, equating to a price per apartment of more than $1.25 million (in Ultimo!..on Harris Street!).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>So, no, I can't say I worry too much about the supply of apartments causing a price correction in Pyrmont.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Now the South Dowling precinct on the other hand...the latest inner apartments report from BIS Shrapnel sums it up rather nicely.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/06/BIS.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/08/06/BIS.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Demand for apartments in Sydney from overseas investors in particular shows "little sign of abating", but there is plenty of supply due to come online in suburbs such as Zetland, Waterloo, Rosebery, Alexandria...and for that matter Mascot, Green Square et al.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Apartment completions</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Inner Sydney apartment should average around 3,100 per annum over the next few years to 2018 per BIS Shrapnel.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/06/BIS4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/08/06/BIS4.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>
<div>But the new supply of apartments in Sydney will be very much skewed towards the inner south and the old urban wastelands around Sydney airport.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>49% of the new inner Sydney apartments will be in the South Dowling precinct, as compared to just 1% in Pyrmont.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/06/BIS2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/08/06/BIS2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div><span>Or, to put that graphically:</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/08/06/BIS3.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2015/08/06/BIS3.jpg" alt=""></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Much of property investment is about common sense. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Invest in the areas where people really want to live but where there is nowhere left to build new supply. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Unfortunately too many people do precisely the opposite by investing in areas where people don't really want to live and where there are stacks of sites on which to build.</div>
<div>
<br>Same applies in Brisbane by the way!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Check out the full BIS Shrapnel report <a href="https://www.theurbandeveloper.com/wp-content/uploads/Inner-Sydney-Apartment-Market-Brief-July-2015.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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A lot of drivel written about Sydney's supply response: Pete Wargent

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<p>There’s little doubt that the Sydney slowdown is under way.</p>
<p>I note that the boffin who runs APRA is trying to claim credit for a reduction in investor activity, but the wind-down in Sydney sales volumes pre-dated his misguided measures to prevent investors from buying real estate.</p>
<p>In terms of sales activity, Sydney peaked way back in the December Quarter of 2013. Auction frenzy and price growth has continued because sales levels have fallen away only gradually. And history shows that markets take time to adjust to new circumstances. Sales activity can be falling for six months or more before prices start to react.</p>
<p>Transactions in the March Quarter 2015 were down on the December 2014 Quarter and also below the March 2014 Quarter. The June 2015 Quarter has shown a further gradual decline.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>The most telling barometer of the Sydney slowdown is the number of individual growth markets, as revealed by Hotspotting’s quarterly research for the Price Predictor Index. </p>
<p>The February research found 118 suburbs with rising sales activity across the Sydney metropolitan area. The May survey found 72. The latest research finds only 36 suburbs with a growth trajectory.</p>
<p>The dominant market type in Sydney now is what we call “plateau” markets. These are suburbs where sales activity was previously rising, but now sales levels have tapered off – still at a healthy level, but below the peak activity.</p>
<p>This is an indicator that the market is beginning to loose its heat.</p>
<p>Another indicator that the cycle has almost run its course is that the leading growth markets are on the fringes of the metropolitan area.</p>
<p>The leading precincts, still with growth markets, are the Campbelltown (far south-west) and Penrith (far west) municipalities.</p>
<p>Other areas still hanging in there (lots of plateau markets) include the Bankstown, Blacktown and Parramatta municipalities.</p>
<p>Yet another sign that the boom cycle has moved on is the performance of regional New South Wales markets. I’ve reported previously that Sydney’s momentum has rippled out into regional centres – firstly those close to Sydney, like Wollongong, Gosford and Newcastle, and more recently those further afield.</p>
<p>The latest survey shows that Regional NSW has considerably more growth markets than Sydney does – almost double the number, in fact. </p>
<p>Sydney is declining, but doesn’t know it, while the state’s regional cities are increasingly buoyant.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Tuned-in investors will have moved on from Sydney some time ago. The price growth of the near future will be found in places like Port Macquarie, Albury, Goulburn, Coffs Harbour and Tweed Heads.</span></p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<p><em>TERRY RYDER is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a></em></p>
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