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

<html><body>
The Block television personality Shelley Craft and her estate agent husband, Christian Sergiacomi, didn't find a buyer when their Byron Bay hinterland home, The Rise went to school holiday auction.
<a href="https://www.byronbaypropertysales.com.au/listing-71213-The-Rise" target="_blank">The tropical five bedroom, three bathroom hideaway </a>sits on 6,100 square metres at Ewingsdale in the hinterland.
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.
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 couple recently 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 are busy building on the property which was long owned by the McGettigan pioneering family who who first settled in Byron Bay in 1882.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Shelley Craft yet to sell Byron Bay home

<html><body>
The eight level, 34-room octagonal-shaped Hotel Saville in South Yarra sold recently with the whispered buyer being Channel 9’s The Block.
As there's no confirmation from the Colliers International selling agents Ben Baines and Ted Dwyer, Title Tattle was yet to be convinced either way.
But the exclusive speculative report by the Melbourne Herald Sun was worth mentioning, especially as The Block never confirm anything until they want it out there.
<img src="/images/2014/06/27/block-june-27-three.png" alt="">
Source: Sydney Daily Telegraph 
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-block-south-yarra-octagonal-hotel-saville-mystery">Property Observer's initial article</a> also noted, almost as an afterthought, that in 2002 the hotel was in the news after it was alleged Reservoir man Shane Chartres-Abbott violently raped a client in a hotel suite, with part of her tongue missing.
The gigolo Chartres-Abbott was arrested shortly after the attack with the victim's blood on his pants and her phone in his bag. With the forensic evidence, medical reports, the victim's testimony and witness statements, Chartres-Abbott presented a bizarre, headline-grabbing defence that he was a 200-year-old vampire.
Chartres-Abbott was <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-05-14/man-admits-to-killing-melbourne-vampire-gigolo/5452674" target="_blank">subsequently executed outside his Reservoir home in 2003</a> as he left for the County Court during the rape trial.
But such a connection proved waywardly, irresistible for the Sydney Daily Telegraph who even made it their newsagency poster headline.
<img src="/images/2014/06/27/block-june-27-one.jpg" alt="">
The journalists got it right, but the subsequent spruiking of the story including its front page banner didn't. All very wrong, as no murder took place at the South Yarra hotel. And the rape victim was not murdered.
</body></html>

Not on this Block: Sydney News Corp tabloid gets The Block’s octagonal South Yarra hotel history wrong

<html><body>
The Block television personality Shelley Craft and her estate agent husband, Christian Sergiacomi, are now auctioning their Byron Bay hinterland home, The Rise.
<a href="https://www.byronbaypropertysales.com.au/listing-71213-The-Rise" target="_blank">The tropical five bedroom, three bathroom hideaway </a>sits on 6,100 square metres at Ewingsdale in the hinterland.
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 couple have been reported by Fairfax Media's Domain as seeking equestrian acreage, but Property Observer gleans they recently 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 are busy building on the property which was long owned by the McGettigan pioneering family who who first settled in Byron Bay in 1882.
The forthcoming five-bedroom 5 July auction Ewingsdale offering, which has views over Byron Bay, was renovated only recently. 
Craft describes its as raw and eclectic, with a plantation/tribal style. She brought in the team at EcoChic, the Gold Coast-based interiors company that specialises in furniture and homewares sourced from environmentally sustainable, fair trade practising suppliers, to help style and furnish her home. 
It has around 290 square metres floor space.
Jeremy Bennett, of Byron Bay Property Sales, is reportedly expecting more than $1.5 million at its 5 July auction, so property pundits will be interested to see if the professional duo can turn a profit.
Title Tattle gleans The Rise property has actually been for sale since January 2013 when it came with $1.85 million price expectations.
The prior owners took 10 months to sell having tried initially for $1.99 million.
Craft and Sergiacomi were married in 2009 at their prior house in the Byron Bay district.
In 2008, Craft signed with Nine taking over at Australia's Funniest Home Videos.
She began as co-host on the lifestyle series, Domestic Blitz alongside Scott Cam in mid 2008. Her time on The Block began in 2011.
In August 2010 Craft gave birth to her first child a baby girl, Milla Grace, with their second daughter, Eadie Rose born in June 2012.
They also have a puppy, Aldo since late last year.
The entrepreneurial couple also operate a tech business following the launch of The Builder App, an online trade directory.
It helps find trades people for home renovators, derived from their observation of struggling contestants on the Channel 9 renovation series. The couple collaborated on the app with Wategos builder, Max Iacopetta.
</body></html>

Inside The Block's Shelley Craft Byron Bay hinterland auction offering, The Rise

<html><body><div class="story-intro">
<div class="story-intro">
The eight level, 34-room octagonal-shaped Hotel Saville in South Yarra has been sold. And the whisper is to Channel 9’s The Block for $7.35 million.
But there's no confirmation from Ben Baines and Ted Dwyer, the Colliers International selling agents, simply saying the property had sold to a local developer.
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/on-the-market-hotel-saville-a-piece-of-the-south-yarra-skyline">The property was sold with a permit for 51 apartments by the vendor</a>, Simpo Solutions Pty Ltd directed on purchase by Ray Huang.
The 3.5 star hotel has been trading since the early 1970s, when it was built with 360 degree views including the city across Fawkner Park. 
Located at<a href="https://rca.colliers.com.au/property-land+development-vic-south+yarra-501125927" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;"> 1-5 Commercial Road</a>, and currently trading as Hotel Saville of South Yarra, the property was marketed as a "premium opportunity well suited to residential developers, hotel/motel developers, home owners and investors".
The Herald Sun reported it sold on Friday to Channel 9’s The Block for approximately $7.35 million - and will be the biggest site the series has taken on.
“We’ve had no contact with Channel Nine or The Block,” the agent reportedly told the Australian Financil Review, though that's not the final word as the Watercress Production company typically utilises the services of their architects, Brenchley Architects. 
So Property Observer isn't yet convinced either way, as previous reports of The Block's next intended location have been awry.
Channel 9 doesn't offer confirmatory comment on The Block's acquisitions until the filming is underway, as part of its 'keep'em guessing' marketing strategy.
Despite some doubting by Property Observer, The Age has pinpointed the likely next location elsewhere in South Yarra after the forthcoming Prahran series.
Property Observer notes Brenchley Architects has recently lodged a $2.4 million 10 apartment, development application at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unitblock-vic-south+yarra-116269171" target="_blank">27 Darling Street, South Yarra</a> which has a caveat on it pursuant to a purchase by Watercress Productions, suggesting the 10th and possibly subsequent series could be undertaken at the popular Melbourne suburb.
Following an influx of interest from potential purchasers, Colliers International sold 1-5 Commercial Road, South Yarra in one line with a nearby 450 square metre car parking block at 270 Punt Road.
The Hotel Saville, which was sold with vacant possession, obtained in excess of 200 enquiries with 10 formal offers.
"Interest came from local and offshore residential developers as well as hotel/motel operators," Ben Baines advised.
“It was a very rare opportunity to acquire a landmark property offering such substantial upside potential.
"Local developers fought off offshore interest to secure the property.
“Local developers are still dominant in Melbourne’s suburban markets given their knowledge of owner-occupiers who will ultimately be purchasing the end product,” Mr Baines said.
 “This is in contrast to many of the CBD developments which are targeting investors, particularly those based overseas.
“That being said, offshore groups are increasing their activity and enquiries on suburban sites and as such we are likely to see high profile sites in the suburbs start to be snapped up by offshore groups, in particular larger sites with potential for in excess of 60 apartments.
“Market confidence within the suburbs is as strong as we have seen since before the GFC, with residential development sites now consistently transacting for in excess of around $130,000 per potential apartment. 
"Looking back 24 months, it was rare for apartment sites to achieve more than $100,000 per potential apartment.” 
The South Yarra address also made the site more attractive, with the suburb’s median two-bedroom apartment price currently sitting at $620,000.
“The properties have great access to popular attractions and amenities such as the Prahran Market, Chapel Street, Fawkner Park, the Botanical Gardens and Albert Park Lake. St Kilda Road, the Monash Freeway and public transport are all nearby, while The Alfred Hospital is just down the road." 
In fact the in the 1990s some of its rooms were briefly rented to the Alfred Hospital.
In 2002 the hotel was in the news after it was alleged Reservoir man Shane Chartres-Abbott violently raped a client in a hotel suite, with part of her tongue missing.
The gigolo Chartres-Abbott was arrested shortly after the attack with the victim's blood on his pants and her phone in his bag. With the forensic evidence, medical reports, the victim's testimony and witness statements, Chartres-Abbott presented a bizarre, headline-grabbing defence that he was a 200-year-old vampire.
Chartres-Abbott was subsequently executed outside his Reservoir home in 2003 as he left for the County Court during the rape trial.
The hearing for Mr Chartres-Abbott's murder is under way at the moment.
</div>
</div></body></html>

The Block South Yarra? Octagonal Hotel Saville mystery

<html><body>
Channel 9 has released its initial video revealing the contestant couples for its next renovation suction series of The Block Glasshouse.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6gZP26PqR4&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">There is no date yet set for </a>the series start, but it is expected to air after the current season of The Voice wraps.
The contestants include retired AFL ruckman <a href="/expert-insights/buying/former-afl-ruckman-darren-jolly-sells-surrey-hills-and-joins-the-block-prahran">Darren Jolly</a> and his wife Deanne.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/06/23/block%20glasshouse%20contestants%20june%2023.jpg" alt="">
Photo courtesy of Channel 9/Facebook.
The video suggests <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheBlock" target="_blank">The Block</a> has responded slightly to past criticism over its lack of diversity.
It was something that the executive producer Julian Cress had been keen to reverse, thwarted as past Block series applications had resulted in fewer than 4% of applicants being other than Caucasian.
The Block, now into its 9th series, has previously had contestants with Italian, Greek and Lebanese heritage. There will be a contestant of Asian heritage in the series.
The Block was one of the first TV shows in the world to cast a gay couple in its initial 2003 series.
In 2014 Tasmania gets its first contestants, sibling guys, Shannon and Simon in the Glasshouse. 
The other contestants are Michael and Carlene from the Gold Coast; Karstan and Maxine from Newcastle; and Jenna and Chris from Sydney.
The next Channel 9 series of The Block Glasshouse is set for the<a href="/news/the-block-shifting-to-high-street-prahran-after-objectors-fail-to-lodge-vcat-appeal"> busy cosmopolitan High Street, Prahran</a> where some <a href="/developments/prahran-vic-3181">36% of the population are singles</a>.
There are five contestant couples, although the development proposal will see six split-level atrium apartments above two restaurants in a converted Prahran office block.
The production company, Watercress spent $8.25 million on the 1980s office building near trendy Chapel Street and opposite Swinburne University's Prahran campus last August.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/06/23/life-in-a-glass-house-june-23-breakout.jpg" alt="">
The $2.5 million Brenchley Architects infill works schedule for <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/2010600795/for-sale/vic/prahran/offices" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">the three-storey 3,540-square-metre building</a> (pictured above) will be mostly internally, but sought car parking dispensation and a waiver of loading and unloading requirements in association with the food and drink premises.
Feature photo courtesy of Channel 9/Facebook.
</body></html>

Diversity as Prahran's The Block Glasshouse contestants revealed

<html><body>
Another of the six apartments in The Block Sky High block in South Melbourne has become are available for rent through Hocking Stuart agent Jacob Davis.
The fifth floor penthouse (pictured above)<a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/UNIT_501_142_PARK_STREET_SOUTH_MELBOURNE_VIC_3205_RENTAL" target="_blank"> is available at $1,495 a week</a> which reflects a reduction in its asking rents. 
<a href="/news/south-melbourne-block-sky-high-penthouse-available-for-1-600-weekly-rental">Last July, Property Observer wrote</a> that the penthouse apartment - Trixie and Johnno's renovation -  had been listed for rent. It <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/UNIT_501_142_PARK_STREET_SOUTH_MELBOURNE_VIC_3205_RENTAL" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">was available at $1,600 a week</a>, reflecting a 5.1% gross rental yield.
The fully furnished apartment sold at $1.605 million at its televised late July 2013 auction.
Three of the six apartments in The Block Sky High block in South Melbourne were recently available for rent. The furnished apartments were pitched at the corporate relocation market.
The offering included the second floor apartment renovated by indie-pop duo Matt and Kim and the third floor apartment renovated by the Melbourne couple, Bec and George.
Designed by architecture firm Brenchley Architects, the building at 142 Park Street in South Melbourne is a conversion from a 1960s motel building. It comes with with shared rooftop entertainment facilities.
The second floor, full floor 220 square metre had a $1600 weekly asking price through Lina D’Ambrasio at City Residential Real Estate Docklands. It is now longer available.
It has three double bedrooms all with ensuites.
The 201/142 Park Street, South Melbourne apartment has electronic blinds throughout and a television in every room.
The apartment at 301/142 Park Street (pictured below) - undertaken by Bec and George in the 2013 series of The Block Sky High - was also available at $1,600 a week rental, but is now no longer available
<img src="/images/2014/05/15/south%20melbourne%20may%2015%20two.jpg" alt="">
It was listed through Arlette Humphry at Interface Property Group Armadale.
The third apartment recently for rent was the garden apartment which was renovated during the final week challenge, and then retained by the Watercress production company.
It had a $1,450 weekly asking price <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+melbourne-413086599" target="_blank">through Dingle Partners leasing agent Daniella Ferraro</a>, but is no longer available.
</body></html>

Block Sky High, South Melbourne penthouse up for rent for less

<html><body>
If you’re renovation-friendly and not camera-shy then you could have the chance to join in with Channel 9’s The Block next year.
They’re asking whether you: “Think you've got what it takes to turn rooms with no walls into stunning spaces people would pay millions for?”
If, like many of us, you “sit at home on your couch and think, ‘I could do better than that’,” then here’s your chance to take part – applications are now open.
They’re looking for teams of two – long-term couples, family teams and enduring friendships – and note that you must be aged between 18 and 65, be energetic and have a sense of humour. While we're not sure anyone can maintain a sense of humour while camping on a renovation site, it obviously helps to have one to begin with.
You will be unable to work during the shoot period, and you need to be available for 10 to 12 weeks of filming in late-2014 (exact dates, and location, are still to be confirmed). But, as you'd know if you've been watching, don't expect it to be less stressful than your current job.
The first week of filming will see the couples, as usual, whittled down to the final participants.
You don’t need to have previous home renovation experience, but it is an asset, they note. Property Observer recommends questionnaire experience with filling out hefty online dating profiles.
Australia-wide submissions are accepted, and you will be paid a nominal weekly fee during filming to cover your basic living costs and expenses.
You have to apply online, at which time McGregor Casting reviews your applications for inclusion. They then contact shortlisted applicants in September 2014.
So what does the application involve? Get a bowl of popcorn, because it's pretty extensive - and will be amusing to fill out for interested teams (some deep soul searching happening here).
Question and answers
The online application involves putting in your personal details (name, address and the usual mumbo jumbo), your next of kin, your height in centimetres, whether or not you have a criminal record, whether you are able to work in Australia and whether you have children (their ages, and if they live with you full time, plus the arrangements you will make for them if you get on the show). They will also undertake a federal police check.
You are asked about your living arrangements.
You are then asked to describe your team member in one word. Then, explain how they would describe you, again, in one word.
The next discussion, amusingly, is what causes an argument and who the first is to make up. You must then describe the best and worst times in your relationship, what your “theme song” would be and why, and your strengths and weaknesses.
Feeling a little akin to a first date, the application form then continues asking “What is your dream job?” and “What makes you happy/angry?”
Your team mate then fills out the same thing.
If this is feeling a little intrusive, you might not suit the show. The next part asks about you as a “team”. The nature of your relationship, how long you have known each other and how you met.
It wants to know what you do for fun and your plans for the future.
Then we start hearing about design – what is your style, and your influences, renovation experience and the “worst thing for you” when renovating. They want to know the roles you play in a crisis and how you respond when things don’t go well. Television experience is also asked about.
Photographs
You need to upload three photographs of your home that “should indicate your design style and taste” and two “everyday” pictures of your team, not including wedding photographs, and specifically no sunglasses.
Video upload
You are then required to submit one video, which they call your “first challenge” for the show. If you’ve managed to hack through the questionnaire, then you might think otherwise.
They ask you to “Be inventive, show initiative, catch our attention!” and do so in no more than five minutes.
It must include both of you, and suggests that you use the application questions as a guide to discuss. They want one of you in front of the camera at all times.
You are asked to talk about each other, and explain why you’d be ideal Blockheads.
“Please show us your renovations/home, but make sure we can see it clearly. Give an idea of your style and renovation experience,” the guidelines state.
Everything in your application (photos, questions and video), according to the Ts and Cs, must be your own work and you give the rights to Nine Network Australia and McGregor casting.
“In return for my assignment of rights in the Materials, Nine consents to me retaining a copy of the Materials for my personal use on the condition that I do not directly or indirectly offer to sell, hire, distribute, reproduce or otherwise use or authorise the use of the Materials for any commercial purpose or provide a copy of those Materials (or any part of them) to any other media organisation, outlet or platform without Nine’s prior written consent,” it explains.
You’re also agreeing to a release that they can use any of the information throughout the world “in any way in any media” without further consent or payment, regardless of whether you are successful.
“I agree that to the maximum extent permitted by law Nine will not be liable to me for any loss or damage or injury to me, my property or my reputation caused or suffered in connection with the making and use of the Recordings or my participation in the selection process for the Program,” it notes in the ‘release’ section.
After this, McGregor Casting may invite selected participants along to further stages of the process and to answer detailed questionnaires and to sign confidentiality undertakings and releases.
It notes they will not contact unsuccessful parties.
You have until July 6th to apply.
If you're keen, then <a href="https://www.jump-in.com.au/show/theblock/fans-v-faves/latest/week-11/are-you-australias-next-ultimate-blockheads/" target="_blank">click here to apply</a>.
If you want to study up about The Block first - check out our tips, tricks and summaries here.
Here are some past video applications:
{qtube vid:=zCn5yxw_glo}
{qtube vid:=EMtGxnSGuQA}
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Want to join The Block 2015? Here's how to apply

<html><body>
The Block Vaucluse 2010 contestants Erin and Jake Michael have sold their Coogee apartment pre-auction for $668,500.
They are moving on following the birth of their son, Jagger last September. The couple married in September 2010.
Their two-bedroom Nathan Street apartment cost $406,000 in 2008.
They then spent around $100,000 on renovations for the 59 square metre apartment.
LJ Hooker Double Bay agent Sean Poche had been telling inspectors of <a href="https://doublebay.ljhooker.com.au/MB1F93" target="_blank">8/3 Nathan Street</a> more than $600,000. 
Erin is a <a href="https://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:x8FKPN_ZZwIJ:https://www.facebook.com/erinmichaelstyling+&amp;cd=1&amp;hl=en&amp;ct=clnk&amp;gl=au" target="_blank">freelance interior and food stylist</a>, working briefly for Real Living Magazine, and remains an accredited sports dietitian.
Contestants are now being sought for <a href="https://theblock2015.castasugar.com" target="_blank">another series of The Block </a>to be aired in 2015 after the Prahran office block conversion series, which will go to air later this year.
The location is yet to be confirmed.
</body></html>

Post-Prahran 2015 Block contestants sought as Erin and Jake from the Block 2010 sell Coogee apartment

<html><body>
Tom and Joy Williams, who bought Kyal and Kara's apartment on The Block Albert Park television series, are selling their nearby Albert Park home.
It's the former 1896 bakery at 1a College Place.
With separate living and dining spaces, the five bedroom property is tipped to fetch more than $2.9 million at its 31 May auction.
There is an upstairs retreat at the 300 square metre holding.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-albert+park-116896327" target="_blank">Warwick Gardiner, of Greg Hocking Holdsworth, has the listing</a> which traded at $860,000 in 1998.
Kyal and Kara’s apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-albert+park-116390163" target="_blank">2/47 O’Grady Street, Albert Park </a>sold 8 April through Cooley Auctions, one of four apartments installed into a red brick former silent cinema turned office warehouse that was offloaded <a href="/news"></a>by a company associated with <a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-block-albert-park-warehouse-price-appreciation-in-history">Lloyd Williams</a>, the Melbourne property developer to The Block production company.
<a href="/news/substance-over-style-as-chantelle-and-steve-win-the-block-2014-fans-v-faves">The Block Albert Park results</a> were as follows:
<ol>
<li>Steve and Chantelle, 1/47 O’Grady: $2.47 million ($636,000 above the adjusted reserve)</li>
<li>Alisa and Lysandra, 3/47 O’Grady: $2.375 million ($616,000 above the adjusted reserve)</li>
<li>Kyal and Kara, 2/47 O’Grady: $2.44 million ($567,250 above the adjusted reserve)</li>
<li>Brad and Dale, 4/47 O’Grady: $2.31 million ($507,250 above the adjusted reserve)</li>
</ol>
</body></html>

Albert Park former 1896 bakery listed in The Block aftermath

<html><body>
Three of the six apartments in The Block Sky High block in South Melbourne are currently available for rent.
The offering includes the second floor apartment renovated by indie-pop duo Matt and Kim and the third floor apartment renovated by the Melbourne couple, Bec and George.
Designed by architecture firm Brenchley Architects, the building at 142 Park Street in South Melbourne is a conversion from a 1960s motel building. It comes with with shared rooftop entertainment facilities.
The furnished apartments are pitched at the corporate relocation market.
The second floor (pictured in the gallery above), full floor 220 square metre has a $1600 weekly asking price through <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+melbourne-413099191" target="_blank">Lina D’Ambrasio at City Residential Real Estate Docklands</a>.
It has three double bedrooms all with ensuites.
Its large German styled kitchen with Caesar Stone tops, German integrated appliances, double oven and butler’s pantry.
The 201/142 Park Street, South Melbourne apartment has electronic blinds throughout and a television in every room.
The apartment at 301/142 Park Street (pictured below) - undertaken by Bec and George in the 2013 series of The Block Sky High - has also become available <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+melbourne-413029435" target="_blank">at $1,600 a week </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+melbourne-413029435" target="_blank">rental.</a>
<img src="/images/2014/05/15/south%20melbourne%20may%2015%20two.jpg" alt="" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
It is listed through Arlette Humphry at Interface Property Group Armadale.
<a href="/news/south-melbourne-block-sky-high-penthouse-available-for-1-600-weekly-rental">Last July Property Observer wrote</a> that the penthouse apartment - Trixie and Johnno's renovation -  had been listed for rent.
The fully furnished apartment sold at $1.605 million at its televised late July 2013 auction <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/UNIT_501_142_PARK_STREET_SOUTH_MELBOURNE_VIC_3205_RENTAL" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">was offered at $1,600 a week</a>, reflecting a 5.1% gross rental yield.
<img src="/images/2014/05/15/south%20melbourne%20may%2015%20three.jpg" alt="">
 
At the time South Melbourne had a 5% indicative gross rental yield, according to RP Data.
It was rented through Hocking Stuart Albert Park agent Adam Pali, whose agency had secured the auction sale above its initial $1.41 million reserve.
The third apartment currently for rent was the garden apartment which was renovated during the final week challenge, and then retained by the Watercress production company.
It has a $1,450 weekly asking price <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+melbourne-413086599" target="_blank">through Dingle Partners leasing agent Daniella Ferraro</a>.
The other five apartments sold on The Block: Sky High grossed $7.603 million on auction day collectively, with Adelaide sisters Alisa and Lysandra selling the winning apartment.
<a href="/news/just-4000-hammer-price-difference-with-entertainment-the-winner-of-the-block-sky-high-auction-results">It was the narrowest of victories </a>for the Adelaide sister contestants Alisa and Lysandra who now are thinking of becoming professional interior designers after winning the most profit in the 2013 Block Sky High apartment auctions.
<div>
Their win came after a $4000 difference between the top sale under the hammer and the second highest sale - apartment 5's Trixie and Johnno securing a $1.605 million sale and apartment 4's Madi and Jarrod who secured $1.601 million.
And then there was another $4000 difference between the winners, Alisa and Lysandra being $295,000 over their amended reserve and the runner-up couple, Madi and Jarrod, $291,000 over their reserve.
The Block Sky High auction sale prices:
<ul>
<li>Apartment 5 Trixie &amp; Johnno – $1.605 million</li>
<li>Apartment 4 Madi &amp; Jarrod – $1.601 million</li>
<li>Apartment 3 Bec &amp; George – $1.507 million</li>
<li>Apartment 2 Matt &amp; Kym – $1.455 million</li>
<li>Apartment 1 Alisa &amp; Lysandra – $1.435 million</li>
</ul>
The profit amount over amended reserves:
<ul>
<li>Trixie &amp; Johnno – $205,000</li>
<li>Madi &amp; Jarrod – $291,000</li>
<li>Bec &amp; George – $242,000</li>
<li>Matt &amp; Kym – $250,000</li>
<li>Alisa &amp; Lysandra – $295,000 plus $100,000 overall prize</li>
</ul>
</div>
</body></html>

The Block

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The Block

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News