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

Trophy Listing

<html><body>
Avon Court in Hawthorn has been formally listed for sale after being offered privately earlier this year with $45 million to $50 million price hopes.
The 2025 square metre nine bedroom mansion on a 4,250 square metre holding last sold for $19.8 million in 2014 in an off market purchase by the Du family from Kew.
The anti-underquoting marketing laws introduced by the Andrews Government in May last year means it has now a disclosed $40 million asking price.
The 4645 square metre property shares a side fence with ex-Australia Post boss Ahmed and Dionnie Fahour’s matrimonial Hawthorn mansion which was listed with $40 million to $44 million earlier this year, without success through Marshall White.
The 18-20 Shakespeare Grove offering has been described by RT Edgar agent Helena Chow as “one of Melbourne’s finest”.
It has been <a href="/expert-insights/buying/avon-court-hawthorn-21-million-sale-intrigue">sold many</a> times over recent years.
Autobarn boss Garry Dumbrell paid $20,250,000 in 2009 when it was sold by the former Richmond Football Club president Clinton Casey and his wife, Leslie.
Avon Court had traded for $5.7 million in 2003 with a rumoured $9 million or more spent on building two new wings, a cinema, gymnasium, sauna, 10-car garage and replacement tennis court.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian. 
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Avon Court in Hawthorn listed with $40 million hopes

<html><body>
Despite the roller coaster share price, Anthony Eisen the boss of the controversial by now pay later lender, Afterpay has bought on Wategos Beach at Byron Bay.
It's the holiday home previously rented by the likes of Kate Moss and Elle Macpherson, who paid $14,000 a week.
It was sold by Boorowa farmer Charlie Arnott, of the Arnott’s Biscuits family to the boss of the ASX-listed payday lender.
This week, Kim Kardashian promoted the digital lender which has been attracting the supervisory interest of the Australian Senate and banking regulators given debt vulture accusations. 
Arnott bought the Marine Parade property in 2009 for $5.5 million from Sausage Software founder Steve Outtrim.   
Overlooking Wategos Beach, is the epitome of a classic beach house.
<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/2018/12/10/Byron2.jpg" alt="">
Set on the exclusive Marine Parade, The White House has been designed to frame the expansive ocean views from its elevated north facing location.
Four of the five bedrooms have ocean views, while the hub of the home is the second level open plan living and dining area which opens out to a large ocean facing entertaining deck.
The top floor of the striking tri-level home is occupied by the master retreat which has its own ensuite and private balcony, also facing the beach.
<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/2018/12/10/Byron3.jpg" alt="">
The White House sits a few houses down from the Byron Bay record breaker, which has stood since 2006.
Sydney developer Danny Goldberg paid $16 million for Wategos House, a six bedroom beachfront set on 1,500 square metres opposite the popular Rae's on Wategos restaurant.
Boorowa farmer Charlie Arnott, of the Arnott’s Biscuits family, secured around $7.6 million.
Known as The White House, it was listed in September 2017 with initial hopes of $8.9 million, and sold after 90 days on the market by Ruth Gotterson, of McGrath, but the deal then fell through.
Eisen was found late last month as the replacement buyer.
This article was first published in The Daily Telegraph. 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Afterpay boss Anthony Eisen buys Arnotts family heir Byron Bay trophy home The White House

<html><body>
Scarborough, a luxury 30 hectare estate in the foothills of the Jamberoo Valley, has been listed for sale.
The private property, described as a <a href="http://www.inspiredre.com.au/property/19143997-jamberoo-nsw-2533/" target="_blank">modern classic Australian country home</a>, has views over the rolling countryside to the Pacific Ocean.
The 365 sqm, four bedroom home was built by Strongbuild at the end of a long sealed bitumen driveway.
There are multiple full-length windows and doors designed to take in the views.
<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/2018/11/27/Jamb1.jpg" alt="">
The surrounding lawned gardens feature citrus trees, while the terraced gardens below are planted with a mixture of bottlebrush and other native shrubs together with south coast rainforest trees. 
In the grounds there's 230,000 litres of water storage and gas boosted solar hot water.
Inspired Real Estate agents Perrie Croshaw and Leanne Pugh have the listing.
Jamberoo is a village around 11 kilometres inland from Kiama on the South Coast.
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Jamberoo Valley trophy Scarborough listed for $3.95 million

<html><body>
A Lavender Bay Victorian terrace re-invented by the late interior designer George Freedman, has been listed for sale at $7.2 million.
Freedman undertook the transformation for the Halpern family in 2000, two years after the <a href="https://theagency.com.au/15408/2-waiwera-street-lavender-bay" target="_blank">Waiwera Street home</a> on its 172 square metre holding traded for $860,000.
It went on to sell for $4.05 million to the current vendor in 2011.
<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/2018/10/26/95e18e2551d043c185f83e509b1122dd.jpg" alt="">
It has four bedrooms, three bathrooms, an upper level media room and an Italian marble table in the open plan lounge and dining space.
The kitchen and second living space opens to a garden courtyard with pond.
The views of the harbour can be captured from the rooftop terrace which comes with an outdoor kitchen.
<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/2018/10/26/63e475f116a94f918d4ee76f02df28f5.jpg" alt="">
The Agency's Dino Lee is marketing the property in conjunction with Ballard Property.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, the American émigré left an indelible mark on his adopted home town after he moved to Australia in the late 1960s to “Manhattanize” the headquarters of the Bank of New South Wales.
“For all the opulence in many of Marsh Freedman’s designs, it was always balanced with tempered restraint guided by Modernist principles,” wrote John Engelen of the dedece design store.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian. 
</body></html>

Lavender Bay trophy home with George Freedman interiors listed

<html><body>
A newly built Sovereign Islands home, complete with vertical garden on its facade, has been listed at $6.98 million.
From the street, half of the home is covered with vertical gardens with automatic irrigation. 
The "green wall' was chosen to provide more interest with street elevations and provide a more approachable design. 
<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/2018/10/26/2ab5cb88be7143c9ab64b7aa8c54c499.jpg" alt="">
The vacant 820 square metre waterfront block last traded for $1.38 million in late 2016 before the buyer, developer Roger Noble, engaged Zoran Architecture to build the opulent mansion, complete with interiors from Designer Details.
"A lot of thought went into the species of plant to use and we settled with rhipsalis from the succulent family as it best deals with the elements," Noble said.
It spans 1,085 square metres of living space across its three levels, serviced by an internal lift.
<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/2018/10/26/156800ea48a44623be1cd39434763cd2.jpg" alt="">
Built to face north over the water, the full concrete <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-sovereign+islands-129127498" target="_blank">home on The Sovereign Mile</a> comes with cinema room.
The designer kitchen, finished in gloss charcoal oak veneer, is accompanied by a full butlers kitchen.
There's six bedrooms in total, including an opulent master suite with his and hers bathrooms and walk in wardrobes, and a separate one bedroom apartment.
The basement level has parking for six cars and a grotto entertainment area with wellness centre featuring a top of the range Sawo Scandia sauna.
Ray White Sovereigh Islands agents Edin Kara and Ali Mian have the listing.
The street record was set in 2009 when the three-level mega-mansion Utopya, filled with waterfalls and glass walls, sold for $9 million.
The Michael Tomlinson-designed six bedroom, 10 bathroom waterfront with 15 seat cinema on-sold for $7.25 million in 2014.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian. 
</body></html>

Newly built Sovereign Islands home with vertical garden facade home listed

<html><body>
The Lakeside Retreat south of Port Douglas in the Mowbray Valley has $4 million hopes through Callum Jones from The Pink Agency.
The tropical five hectare estate borders pristine creek frontage.
<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/2018/10/15/lake1.jpg" alt="">
It features two Queenslanders, the main four bedroom residence designed by architect Garth Chapman.
Its wraparound timber verandah with two alfresco entertaining areas overlooks the swimming pool. 
The guest retreat, on its own adjoining two hectare plot, was built by the prior owner.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian.
</body></html>

Lakeside Retreat south of Port Douglas listed

<html><body>
Churston Lodge, the 1930s Armadale home, has been snapped up before the weekend scheduled auction.
The four bedroom home with a Stuart Rattle renovation sits on a 1370 square metre Hampden Road holding.
It had a guide of $6 million to $6.5 million, having last traded for $1.05 million in 1995.
It was listed by the Toorak dentist George Paltoglou, who's little-used twitter handle is the "flossdaddy".
The home features an entry foyer with signature timber panelling.
There's a music room, a formal dining rooms and a formal sitting room with open fireplaces.
The pool is surrounded with bluestone flagstones along with a cabana.
RT Edgar agents Holly Gillham and Warwick Anderson sold the home, without price disclosure other than saying it fetched "significantly above" the reserve price.
An impressive 35 groups attended the first open for inspection.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

Armadale trophy home Churston Lodge snapped up pre-auction

<html><body>
Australia's most expensive home has hit the market which has reignited the optimistic obsession about a $100 million sale.
It's the Double Bay offering by the executors of the late Lady (Mary) Fairfax. 
The home, Fairwater, has been in the Fairfax media dynasty family since 1901 when Sir James Oswald Fairfax paid £5,350.
The two-storey, late Victorian mansion - which was designed by architect J. Horbury Hunt for stockbroker, Francis Joseph in 1881, is set on five subdividable blocks on exclusive Seven Shillings Beach. 
There will be no immediate formal website marketing for the home that dates back to 1881, but interested parties will be led through the landmark home by Christie's International agent Ken Jacobs.
Setting the benchmark, Jacobs sold the current national record setter, the neighbouring Elaine, for $71 million last year to billionaire Atlassian co-founder Scott Farquhar and wife Kim Jackson.
Fairfax Media has wrongly reported the listing went to Sotheby's.
Fellow Atlassian co-founder Mike Cannon-Brookes will no doubt be on Jacob's radar as a propsective buyer. He recently sold his Braelyn, his Centennial Park trophy, for $16.5 million.
James Packer, who sold his Vaucluse home La Mer for a record $70 million in 2016, Australia's second biggest sale, is unlikely to be interested despite offloading his Bondi triplex for $29 million earlier this year, given his desire to have a Barangaroo apartment as his bolthole for his rare trips back to Sydney.
<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/2018/9/6/SMH-Headline1.jpg" alt=""> Source: SMH 07/08/2015
The wayward $100 million price estimate was based on extrapolating the 53-metre beach frontage premium to the entire 6,900 square metre land holding, with the New South Head Road frontage clearly unlikely to warrant the Seven Shillings beachfront premium.
The SMH headline suggested $100 million while the article speculated as high as $112 million.
The Fairwater listing today has immediately triggered a fresh bout of unsourced $100 million plus speculation.
The market has been tested before, but came up wanting as Aussie John Symond's opulent Point Piper mansion, once dubbed 'Aussie Stadium', was touted as having $100 million buyer interest from China, however the Aussie Home Loans founder <a href="/news/aussie-john-symond-listing-point-piper-harbourfront">opted against the sale.</a>
Phoneix Acres, in Vaucluse, sold for $65.25 million last year, having been listed with initial record setting hope.
Fairwater is the largest privately-owned harbour side landholding, spanning 11,210 sqm.
"Fairwater represents an extraordinary opportunity to acquire Australia’s most desirable residential holding," Jacobs said.
"The property’s appeal reflects its unquestionable position as Australia’s most revered and significant home. 
"It is remarkable that an estate offering such rare and unrepeatable features still exists in Australia today; this opportunity will not come again.
"A revered harbour side estate of this size, 5.5 kilometres from the CBD of a major international city is rare by any standard.
"Fairwater is a world class showpiece offering unprecedented attributes of historical significance, design circa 1882 by famed architect John Horbury Hunt."
Nine years later there were additions completed in the Arts and Craft style.
No price expectation or sales date have been issued, however Jacobs will be hoping to sell it for quicker than Elaine which took three years to sell.
The house is in better condition than next door, and it has often been referred to as likely to fetch more than Elaine. Jacobs will be hoping for a quicker sale than Elaine, which took <a href="/expert-insights/elaine-double-bay-the-tired-trophy-home-too-lonesome-for-one-billionaire-buyer">three years to sell.</a> Fairwater is 4100 sqm larger than Elaine.
<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/2018/9/6/100m7.jpg" alt="">
No formal price guide was ever offered on the 2013 listing of Elaine, but an absurd $100 million calculation published on its 2013 marketing debut in the Fairfax press cruelled its initially sale prospects. 
 
<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/2018/9/6/100m%202.jpg" alt=""> Source: SMH 06/09/18
For a brief time, the property was to be gifted to the people of NSW, but this proposition was later ditched.
"What is Fairwater without the garden, it's just another big old house," she said in 1990 when faced with $350,000 annual land taxes.
By 1996 Lady Fairfax said a trust of seven was being established to oversee the estate, headed by her close friend, the former chairman of National Australia Bank, Sir Rupert Clarke. 
Lady Fairfax made the announcement at the 1996 Monaco National Day celebrations but later declined to comment on her intended gift.
She had moved into Fairwater with her husband, Sir Warwick in 1969. The previous occupant was Sir Warwick's mother, Lady (Mabel) Fairfax, who died in 1965.
Fairwater is expected to attract strong overseas interest. 
The state government would secured $6.94 million stamp duty on the touted $100 million sale, and if the buyer is from overseas the duty payable on the purchase will be $14.9 million given an extra $8 million foreign buyer duty.
The listing comes just weeks after the will of the late Lady Mary Fairfax’s was revealed with some suggesting it was set to remain in the famous family’s possession for decades to come.
According to never before published provisions reported by The Australian, in her will the four beneficiaries are the US-based Warwick Fairfax Junior, adopted children Charles Fairfax and Anna Cleary, as well as lawyer Garth Symonds, Lady Mary’s son from a previous marriage.
Lady Mary's will which was written in 1999 did not include Sir Warwick's three children from his previous marriages. They were dubbed 'The Excluded Class'.
There is no explicit mention of how Fairwater is to be bequeathed in the will, although the trustees have the “power of sale” of all assets in the trust fund. 
Three executors were selected for their expertise in commerce, the law and finance — Lady Mary’s long-term adviser and confidante Bruce Solomon, former top tier lawyer and barrister Jim Momsen, and former KPMG partner Peter Done.
The fourth executor is Lady Mary’s longstanding personal assistant Lee Thomas.
Five months after Lady Fairfax's death, the title documents were transferred to the executors of the will.
The will does outline that “live-in” staff members employed by Lady Mary at the time of her death can “continue to live-in at Fairwater”. 
There was a fairly tasteless Fairfax Media article shortly after Lady Fairfax's death suggesting Sydney estate agents were circling the potential offering, though no facts were published.<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/6/Mourning%20agents.JPG" alt="">
Source: Domain.com.au 23/9/17 
</body></html>

Lady (Mary) Fairfax's Fairwater, Double Bay home to be sold

<html><body>
Point Piper has its priciest listing since 2016 with the offering of the waterfront Routala.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-point+piper-129247630" target="_blank">Wunulla Road home</a> has been listed by Gordon Fell, founder of Rubicon property trust empire, and wife Phillipa.
Dr Fell, who has been a chairman of Opera Australia, recently founded hotel investment company Sequitur Hotels.
The Fells have listed the home given their three children have departed the home and the couple are travelling overseas more often.
They're looking to double their money, having paid a national record $28,750,000 in 2007 when buying from horse breeder Warwick Miller.
The harbourside mansion was bought just before the GFC, when Dr Fell sold his Rubicon property empire, which subsequently collapsed.
David Coe’s finance group Allco paid $331 million for the management company that oversaw Dr Fell’s $5 billion property funds empire Rubicon.
Allco later collapsed under its debt load. 
<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/2018/9/5/WUN2.jpg" alt="">
Built in 1999 by leading architect Michael Dysart, Routala is set in 1,380 sqm of Myles Baldwin gardens.
It comprises six bedrooms, a home office, library, self-contained guest quarters and a formal dining room.
There's a 5,000 bottle climate-controlled wine cellar, fully integrated home cinema with wet bar and seven car basement garaging, complete with workshop and home gym.
Crowning the home is a rooftop terrace with views across Sydney Harbour.
Down by the water meeting the private deepwater jetty is a gas heated swimming pool, his and hers changing rooms and a kitchenette and a covered alfresco entertaining area with barbecue, fire pits and sunken seating.
<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/2018/9/5/WUN3.jpg" alt="">
Gordon and Phillipa, who have work commitments overseas, renovated throughout in 2016. 
Brad Pillinger has the listing, with an economic campaign with 12 uninspiring images going up on website earlier this week.
The campaign doesn't feature any images back towards the house from the water.
Nor are there any drone shots, which for whatever reason have become ubiquitous in every house campaign these days.
There is a somewhat styled picture of the harbourside table, with empty wine bucket, some empty wine glasses with the plates about to be laid out.
<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/2018/9/5/wunulla4.jpg" alt="">
Last year's highest sale in Point Piper was the complication off market purchase of the half complete re-build of Deauville, which sold for $39 million.
The completed home would have been closer to $45 million, or more, but involved an undisclosed construction completion component.
It was bought by luxury car importer Neville Crichton, who sold his former Point Piper home for $62 million in 2016.
 
 
 
 
 
</body></html>

Point Piper waterfront Routala listed for $55 million

<html><body>
Aloha, a Spanish Mission-style Elsternwick home built by the Reece plumbing family has been listed for sale with a $2,395,000 asking price.
Built in the mid 1920s, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-elsternwick-128722518" target="_blank">the home</a> is described as Miami-style. It comes with the first Italian mosaic tiles imported into Australia in the downstairs powder room.
A restoration maintained the many glamous features from the era, including its classic terrazzo porch, the lead light windows and doors, Degue-designed light fittings and a copper Arts and Crafts fireplace.
Aloha is etched above the covered carport at the three bedroom St Georges Road address which has been restored since last sold at $480,000 in 1998.
Its first floor was originally built as a dance studio, which is now two bedrooms, a living area, kitchenette, bathroom and a terrace balcony for entertaining.
Rodney Morley and Rochelle Butt at Rodney Morley Real Estate have the listing. There have only been three owners with the Reece family selling in 1974 for $444,500.
The company was created by Harold Reece who sold plumbing products from the back of his truck. His first store was in nearby Caulfield with the company now having more than 450 outlets nationally.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian. 
</body></html>

Trophy Listing

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Trophy Listing

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News