Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

The Block

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The interior designer and television personality Darren Palmer has listed his home in Edgecliff. 
The judge on the hit TV renovation show The Block is off to a bigger, more family friendly home at Bondi Beach.
The redundant three bedroom, two bathroom home - which can be bought with all of Darren's finishes - has been stylishly transformed since it was purchased in 2013.
<a href="https://www.goodyer.com.au/buying/NSW/Eastern-Suburbs/Edgecliff/House/1P3097" target="_blank">Pauline Goodyer of Goodyer Real Estate</a> has the listing inconjunction with <a href="https://doublebay.ljhooker.com.au/MRVF93/21-walker-avenue-edgecliff" target="_blank">David Malouf at LJ Hooker Double Bay</a>.
Based on a recent $2.3 million record sale in the street, the Walker Avenue property will courtyard is estimated to fetch upwards of $2 million.
Ready to move into after its remodelling from a one bedroom abode, it now has two bedrooms downstairs, plus a whole floor upstairs master with walk-in robe, luxury ensuite plus a balcony deck.
The fully renovated Federation Edgecliff home goes to December 1 auction.
Darren has been married for four and a half years to cosmetic industry CEO, Olivier Duvillard. 
Queensland-born Palmer has been involved in design since the age of 17 where he left his home town to study fine art and design.
His property successes included selling his Cahors, Potts Point investment apartment for $540,000 two years ago. 
The couple have decided to live the beach style with their son.
The couple secured their new home in Bondi Beach earlier this year.
Spread across 470 sqm, it is a five bedroom, four bathroom house with a detached self-contained studio surrounded by a lavish oasis garden for their three dogs and a cat to roam around. 
The nice guy judge on The Block, who came to prominence when he filled in for John McGrath, also runs his own successful interior design called Darren Palmer studio.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Block designer judge Darren Palmer lists Edgecliff home

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New South Wales team Shay &amp; Dean have secured the winning Block combination, Damien Cooley and Andrew McCann of Jellis Craig Real Estate, to sell their penthouse apartment on The Block. 
The couple have already showed their strength in the game winning the first two rooms on the renovation reality television show.
This will mark Damien’s eighth appearance, the most booked auctioneer on the show.
Damien and Andrew will be aiming for their third win together having won the last two series’ for brothers Shannon &amp; Simon and All Star couple Deanne &amp; Darren.
Damien will personally be going for his fifth win on the show.
“We’re really excited to have Damien Cooley as our auctioneer, he’s got a great track record on the show and we know he will do a fantastic job,” the contestant couple said.
“Our apartment is extremely different from every other floor, we’ve taken risks where others haven’t and being on the top level we have amazing views across South Yarra and the city.”
“We can’t wait to see how the auction goes at the end of the series. We’ve put our heart and soul into this apartment and it’s something we are very proud of.”
“I had a call from a few of the other contestants but for me for me the NSW connection, and in particular the Newcastle connection, played a big role in our decision to choose Dean &amp; Shay," Damien Cooley said.
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Damien Cooley set to auction Shay and Dean's Blocktagon, South Yarra apartment

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A Vaucluse apartment sold in The Block, the Channel Nine reality television series in 2010, sold again last week.
Five years ago it fetched $970,000 after Cheryl and Brenton's renovation.
This week the 100 sqm apartment sold ahead of its scheduled auction at $1.42 million through Mark Meyer at LJ Levi, with its price reflecting a very healthy 8.25 annual growth.
Recent research suggests these Vaucluse vendors have done better than many other buyers of properties from The Block offerings over the past 12 years.
PRD Nationwide research manager Diaswati Mardiasmo looked at 10 resales since the initial series of The Block aired in 2003.
Dr Mardiasmo noted these properties were bought at auction for an average $57,750 or 7% per more than the median price in their suburbs.
But their resale only averaged $26,500 more than the median price.
Dr Mardiasmo said the rate of growth of The Block properties had failed to live up to initial promise.
“They made dollar value money because the price did go up - but in terms of the implicit value, they lost,” she said.
Dr Mardiasmo said her ­research indicated The Block was a “losing proposition” for buyers despite the properties being in premium suburbs, like Bondi Beach and Manly.
“For a show that has quite a following, it is quite surprising to see that a property once sold at The Block hasn’t either matched or even gained more value than the suburb median price growth,” she said.
“It seems once the media hype wore off, buyers became more cautious.”
Infact such has been the silly exuberance on display at most of the Block auctions, that some investors have sold at serious losses. 
The first loss was in 2005 with the resale of a two-bedroom Roscoe Street, Bondi Beach unit, decorated by Amity Dry and Phil Rankine, that had sold at $655,000 in the first 2003 series.
It fetched $550,000, yes a loss of $100,000 within two years.
Then another Bondi apartment resold with a small gain, initially under the gaze of the television cameras in 2003 at $747,000, then quietly offloaded at $765,000 in 2009.
Back in 2010 the rollercoaster nature of Sydney’s property market was evident when one of the Vaucluse four units failed to sell under the auction hammer.
It was Brenton and Chez's <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-vaucluse-120531045" target="_blank">4/107 New South Head Road</a> property that failed to meet its $880,000 reserve, passed in at $865,000. 
Those potential 2010 buyers were initially advised the apartment would fetch more than $900,000. But the estimate was adjusted down to about $900,000 when the 2010 spring property market conditions tightened and auction clearance rates fell.
Something like the current 2015 spring conditions.
Ofcourse Channel 9 never intended The Block to be a program focusing on the state of real estate market. 
Indeed Channel 9's auction selling price is not really a major priority.
They are about providing entertainment and drama - and securing their huge advertising revenue.
This is not to say over the years The Block hasn't served to highlight it’s not that easy to get rich quick from renovation and flipping.
Soon whole floor apartments in their latest series, in the South Yarra Blocktagonal complex, will be auctioned off.
These auction listings will attract thousands to the open for inspections. And possibly bidding silliness.
There is drama at every auction, every Saturday.
Don’t distress if you miss out this weekend because someone paid more. They might have to live with the consequences.
But use the knowledge gathered to help assess other property on the market, and feel assured you’ll be better prepared next time.
Remember building wealth from property only safely works when incorporated into a long-term plan.
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The Block Vaucluse apartment sale

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hockingstuart will be representing Kingi and Caro in the marketing of their South Yarra apartment on The Block, the latest Channel Nine reality television series.
David Wood from hockingstuart Albert Park will be the auctioneer, while Mark Konishi from hockingstuart South Yarra will be the sales agent.
Both Mark and David were part of Charlotte and Josh’s marketing campaign earlier this year, while David was the auctioneer for Steve and Chantelle’s win in Albert Park last year.
Picture courtesy of <a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au" target="_blank">9 Jumpin</a>
 
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hockingstuart return for another run round The Block

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Suzi Taylor, who gives her occupation as LJ Hooker estate agent, will be one of the competitors on the season of The Block set to air this weekend on Channel 9.
She's there along with other contestants including an electrician and an interior designer, on the 11th season of the Nine Network series.
This series's apartment block is octagonal with each level transformed into a 225-square metre apartment with 360-degree views.
Each South Yarra apartment will contain three-bedrooms, four-bathrooms and an expansive outdoor terrace close to busy Punt Road where eventual widening fears loomed large this month.
The contestants: (ages, states and team moniker):
Suzi, 44, and Vonni, 39, from the Gold Coast. The Single Mums.
Dean, 30, and Shay, 29, from Newcastle. The Go-Getters.
Whitney, 29, and Andrew, 29, from Melbourne. The Sweethearts.
Kingi, 31, and Caro, 31, from Townsville. The Larrikins
Luke, 29, and Ebony, 24, from Perth. The 2nd Chance Siblings.
<img src="/images/2015/08/24/700_suzi_banner.jpg" alt="">
Suellen Taylor, known as Suzi on the show, has her LinkedIn profile showing she's been at LJ Hooker Main Beach, a residential sales executive since joining in December last year. 
Though with time out for the shooting of the show earlier this year, her website listings on the Gold Coast property market have been sparse.
Before entering the real estate game, she was involved in the entertainment industry as a musician and professional actor. She was the 1991 Penthouse Pet of the Year.
<img class="ecxscaledImageFitWidth img" src="https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/v/t1.0-9/s480x480/11046736_1405624649744065_8034415435803775294_n.jpg?oh=e19f4480abbde3e821a91c3d63d0bd0c&amp;oe=565168EE" alt="Suzi Taylor LJ Hooker's photo." width="470" height="357">  
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Her facebook account has photos with her and Gold Coast real estate veteran Max Christmas (above).  
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Her property listings include a unit on Main Beach Parade that was ultimately sold for $1,350,000 by Joanna Bell-Booth through Ray White Mermaid Beach in February 2015.
Her highest priced listing appears to be the iconic 432 Esplanade, Palm Beach mansion, having sold for $2.5 million in March this year.
Suzi confirmed to Property Observer that she has taken a hiatus from real estate, given her 90 day stint on The Block.
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<div class="ecx_6lz ecx_6mb ecxellipsis">Main picture courtesy of <a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/blockheads/bios/suzi-and-vonni/" target="_blank">9jumpin</a>.</div>
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Meet Suzi Taylor, Gold Coast estate agent on The Block Octagonal 2015

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Former contestants of The Block, Dan “The Foreboy”, Dani Wales and Chantelle Ford, winner of Fans Vs Faves, will be offering their apartment design and styling tips at Wantirna South's property development Knoxia this Saturday.
Yuka Chen, general manager of Centric Capital Group said the event will cover latest design trends by some of Australia’s biggest renovation reality stars.
“The blockheads have delivered some amazing spaces over the series they filmed and their design aesthetics align with the vision we have for Knoxia," he said.
“By offering a session with the Blockheads, we hope to equip apartment owners and future residents of Knoxia with the valuable knowledge of how they too can incorporate elegant, yet affordable design elements into their home without breaking the budget."
<img src="/images/2015/08/20/block2.jpg" alt="">
The ‘Block All Stars’ event will be held on Saturday 22nd Aug from 12pm to 3pm, at the onsite display suite at 456 Burwood Hwy, Wantirna South.
For more information, click <a href="https://www.knoxia.com.au" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">here</a>.
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Styling tips from The Block All Stars set for Knoxia

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The new season of The Block debuts on Channel 9 in a likely late August launch.
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Block co-creator and Executive Producer, Julian Cress, said the new challenge should be called “The Block Sky Higher”, turning Melbourne’s ugly duckling (the octagonal shaped Hotel Saville) into a high-end apartment complex.
“More architecturally challenging than anything we have ever attempted, this Block is taking renovating to a whole new level,”  Cress said.
Built as a giant octagon in the mid-1960s, the former Hotel Saville in South Yarra is all edges and angles, with not a square room in sight.
It’s a challenge to give the most qualified builders and interior designers sleepless nights.
These are the new contestants.
Kingi and Caroline (31)
Kingi, a renderer, and Caroline, a cheerleading life motivator, are married with a 3 year old.
Hailing from Townsville, the couple says they are determined to make their mark on The Block this year.
“We’re quick learners. If we don’t know how to do something, we’re both very good at researching it and figuring out how to do things,” Caro said.
“We both don’t like being only OK or average at things. You’ve got to do your homework to be good at something.”
While not new to the renovation game, The Block is still a large step up from renovating their three-bedroom home.
Will these Townsville terrors knock-down or rebuild their Blockhead neighbours? Stay tune to find out.
<a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/triplethreat/latest/" target="_blank"><img src="https://resources3.news.com.au/images/2015/08/09/1227476/099427-e8d0861a-3ceb-11e5-8994-dd0ed9376faf.jpg" width="316" height="421"></a>
 
Whitney and Andrew (29)
Beauty therapist Whitney and partner Andrew, a formworker met as most modern-day lovers do, on Tinder.
“What initially attracted me to Whitney was her big heart. The best thing about our relationship is that we just love to laugh,” Andrew said.
The pair liken themselves to Block favourites Bec and George, or Gav and Waz, because “we like to have a laugh”.
“There might be tears and a few hard moments, but all we need to do is look at each other and laugh.”
Whitney’s always ready for a laugh, but the Foreman Keith might need to keep a box of tissues on hand for Whitney as she can be prone to waterworks.
“I cry when someone upsets me or hurts my feelings, but if someone was to upset Andrew I’d get really angry,” she said.
Though wildly under-experienced in renovating – the most they’ve done is prettying up two beauty salons on a limited budget – they say being Melburnians at least gives them some kind of  advantage.
Will Whitney and Andrews designs make the judges “Swipe Right”?
<a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/triplethreat/latest/" target="_blank"><img src="https://resources3.news.com.au/images/2015/08/09/1227476/099319-e82e6e16-3ceb-11e5-8994-dd0ed9376faf.jpg" width="316" height="421"></a>
 
Suellen (44) and Yvonne (39)
With Suzi the Real Estate agent and Personal Trainer Voni, it’s going to be hard for the Blockheads to keep up with these gung-ho single mums form the Gold Coast.
Best friends for 16 years, these assertive, strong, yet glamorous women are unlike any contestants before them.
“Suzi and I make light of most scenarios and laugh off most things. I think that’s a good way to look at life.
“If you get too serious, how boring, and no one wants to spend time around someone like that,” Voni said.
Controversially, they plan on committing a Block cardinal sin: both going shopping at the same time, leaving no one on-site to oversee the build.
They say it’ll be faster than sending photos to each other back at the Octagon, and the constant phone calls.
While they have little renovation experience (“I’ve probably changed a few light bulbs and put some handles on doors,” Suzi giggles, (and Voni has painted the odd feature wall) these dynamos should never be pigeonholed.
<a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/triplethreat/latest/" target="_blank"><img src="https://resources1.news.com.au/images/2015/08/09/1227476/099373-e78e2f14-3ceb-11e5-8994-dd0ed9376faf.jpg" width="316" height="421"></a>
 
Luke (29) and Ebony (24)
The Busselton brother and sister from Triple Threat are back to have another crack.
Carpenter Luke and Interior Designer Ebony had fans shattered when the siblings were eliminated from the teams trying out for last season.
The loveable westerners won many fans with their good humour and relaxed nature.
“I never got any of that resentment or jealousy from not getting on the show,” Luke said, with Ebony adding, “It was great to cheer on the guys and see how they went.”
They say their design style is perhaps most in line with Michael and Carlene’s from The Block Glasshouse.
“I loved a lot of their glam approach to The Block. It was really different and not the standard industrial style you see all the time,” Ebony notes.
Will these second-chance siblings have it this next time around?
<a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/triplethreat/latest/" target="_blank"><img src="https://resources3.news.com.au/images/2015/08/09/1227476/095435-e5c554fa-3ceb-11e5-8994-dd0ed9376faf.jpg" width="316" height="421"></a>
 
Shay (29) and Dean (30)
Newcastle locals Shay, a high-school teacher, and Dean, an electrician, met in high school and are still crazy about each other.
A Year 9-12 English and drama teacher, Shay wears her heart on her sleeve, is passionate and outspoken, but is fundamentally a dreamer.
Dean is more likely to sit back, survey a situation and come up with a plan that works.
But it’s this difference in their personalities that makes them work so well as a team.
The duo are long-time Block fans and can’t quite believe they are finally getting their shot at the reality dream.
“We watched the show from the first season in Bondi and always thought this is something we wanted to do. It’s incredible to finally get a chance,” Shay said.
They are putting themselves through The Block wringer for their two year old daughter Everly.
The pair want to make a “tree change” and buy some land near Newcastle where they can grow their own food as well as a family.
Given their wish to be surrounded by trees, it’s not surprising that their style is heavily influenced by Scandinavian designs.
“We want a space to be comfortable and warm, but also look good,” Shay said.
Will the Newie newbies be the next wipe-outs or winners?
<a href="https://www.9jumpin.com.au/show/theblock/triplethreat/latest/" target="_blank"><img src="https://resources1.news.com.au/images/2015/08/09/1227476/095381-e65d627c-3ceb-11e5-8994-dd0ed9376faf.jpg" width="316" height="421"></a>
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Meet The Block Octagonal contestants

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Jess and Ayden from The Block will be giving their tips and tricks on building and designing a dream home at the South Ripley Providence HomeExpo Festival later on this month.
The Ipswich Valley home expo, to be held in South East Queensland on the weekend of August 22-23, is complete with 24 homes on display.
Metricon, Plantation Homes, Stylemaster, Ausbuild, Bold Properties, Burbank, Simonds, Hotondo Homes and Planbuild Homes will be featured.
Providence project director, Michael Khan said the Providence Home Expo will consist of 24 of the latest home designs by the leading builders and people will be able to walk through these homes and visualise their new lives in Ripley Valley.
Providence is being developed across 670 hectares, roughly three times the size of Brisbane’s CBD land mass.
For more information, <a href="https://www.providenceripley.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>. 
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Jess, Aiden from The Block set for Ipswich Valley Providence HomeExpo

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One of the Block Prahran Glasshouse apartments from last year’s season of The Block renovation series has been snappily resold.
It fetched $2.01 million, making a quick $285,000 gain in just eight months for investor Tina Brandi.
The three-bedroom apartment at 5/125 High Street was the one renovated in the group challenge where all five teams collaborated during the final Glasshouse episodes last October.
The apartment sold to a local businessman for $2.01 million through Biggin &amp; Scott Richmond agents Russell Cambridge and Allan Cove.
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<div class="image-frame"><img src="https://resources0.news.com.au/images/2015/07/27/1227458/554344-a518cedc-30de-11e5-b8b7-8c65da63768b.jpg" alt="The apartment at 5/125 High St, Prahran sold for $2.01 million last month." width="650" height="366"></div>
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The townhouse was sold a week after the show last October for $1.725 million. 
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Resale in the Prahran Block Glasshouse

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The Block television personality Shelley Craft and her estate agent husband, Christian Sergiacomi, have sold their Byron Bay hinterland home, The Rise at a loss.
<a href="https://www.byronbaypropertysales.com.au/listing-71213-The-Rise" target="_blank">The tropical five bedroom, three bathroom hideaway </a>on 6,100 square metres at Ewingsdale in the hinterland fetched $1.5 million when settlement details emerged earlier this year.
It has been home to The Block co-presenter and husband, known as Serge, who has been a cameraman on The Block, since they bought it in 2010 for $1.61 million.
The five-bedroon Ewingsdale offering has around 290 square metres floor space.
Jeremy Bennett, of Byron Bay Property Sales has it listed at $1.5 million plus.
The upgrading couple spent $2.05 million on an 8,050 square metre property at neighbouring McLeods Shoot, a substantial discount as it had been initially listed for sale at $3.5 million-plus in 2010.
The couple built on the property which was long owned by the McGettigan pioneering family who who first settled in Byron Bay in 1882.
 
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