<p>Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.</p>

<p>Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.</p>

<p>Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.</p>

<p>Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.</p>

<p>Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.</p>

<p>For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.</p>

<p>Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.</p>

<p>Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.</p>

<p><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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.</p>

<p>The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.</p>

<p>That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.</p>

<p>Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.</p>

<p>It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.</p>

<p>For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.</p>

<p>Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.</p>


Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

<p data-end="471" data-start="164">Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.</p>

<p data-end="777" data-start="473">The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.</p>

<p data-end="976" data-start="779">Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.</p>

<p data-end="1119" data-start="978"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.</p>

<p data-end="1399" data-start="1121">"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.</p>

<p data-end="1399" data-start="1121">"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."</p>

<p data-end="1605" data-start="1401">The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.</p>

<p data-end="1852" data-start="1607">The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.</p>

<p data-end="1852" data-start="1607"><img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" /></p>

<p data-end="2031" data-start="1854">Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.</p>

<p data-end="2299" data-start="2033">"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.</p>

<p data-end="2588" data-start="2301">Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.</p>

<p data-end="4143" data-start="3991">Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.</p>

<p data-end="593" data-start="417">Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.</p>

<p data-end="789" data-start="598">New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.</p>

<p data-end="1053" data-start="794">IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.</p>

<p data-end="4143" data-start="3991"><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a></em></p>

<p data-end="4143" data-start="3991"><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a></em></p>


First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

<p>Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]</p>

<p>Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]</p>

<p>Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]</p>

<p>A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]</p>

<p>Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]</p>


Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

<p>National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.</p>

<p>Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]</p>

<p>Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.</p>

<p>“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]</p>

<p>BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]</p>

<p>The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.</p>

<p>Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]</p>


Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

<p>The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.</p>

<p>Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.</p>

<p>The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]</p>

<p>Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.</p>

<p>"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.</p>

<p>"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.</p>

<p>"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]</p>

<p>Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.</p>

<p>"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.</p>

<p>"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."</p>

<p>One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.</p>

<p>Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]</p>


Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Apartment Market

<html><body>
<p>The Reserve Bank of Australia has concerns on the apartment market, warning a flood of new apartments could come onto the market in certain areas, pushing down prices and causing heavy losses for developers.</p>
<p>The concerns were voiced in its latest Statement on Monetary Policy. The central bank pointed out that residential building approvals have been almost 50 per cent higher than their long-term average over the past two years, helped by low interest rates and buoyant housing prices in the eastern states.</p>
<p>While residential building approvals, especially for higher-density apartments, have fallen in recent months, the RBA statement noted dwelling investment should hold up as developers start work on projects that are already in the pipeline.</p>
<p>It said private dwelling investment continued to grow at an above-average rate over the year, but fell unexpectedly in the September quarter, largely because poor weather disrupted construction. </p>
<p>Residential building approvals, especially higher-density dwelling approvals, have fallen in recent months (Graph 3.6). Nevertheless, the large amount of work in the pipeline should continue to support a high level of dwelling investment for the foreseeable future.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.6.png" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p class="p1"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.6.png" alt=""></span></p>
<p class="p1"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/ResiDwellPipeline.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a> </span></p>
<p class="p1"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/ResiDwellPipeline.png" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> </span></p>
<p>The central bank pointed out that that "an approved apartment takes around three times as long to complete as a detached house".</p>
<p>It added that the longer lag between the decision to approve a higher-density dwelling and its completion makes it easier to forecast dwelling investment levels further into the future.</p>
<p>But it also "means that the impact on the supply of housing, including prices and vacancy rates, may be less predictable than in the past".</p>
<p> By late last year, the residential dwelling pipeline was equivalent to 12 per cent of GDP, and the number of dwellings yet to be completed accounted for 2.5 per cent of the country's total supply of housing.</p>
<p>"This large pipeline of work primarily reflects strong growth in building for higher-density dwellings (such as apartments)," the RBA says.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/ResiActivity.png" target="_blank"><span class="s1">Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/ResiActivity.png" alt=""> </span></p>
<p>It noted the average completion time for an apartment in 2016 was around six quarters, almost three times longer than for detached houses, and twice as long as for townhouses.</p>
<p>It acknowledged the large pipeline of dwelling investment will continue to support economic activity and employment over the next couple of years.</p>
<p>But the RBA pointed out there are risks involved with the high level of activity and the shift to higher-density buildings especially as the apartment construction "is geographically concentrated, particularly in inner-city Melbourne and Brisbane".</p>
<p>Their statement also said a risk existed that developers might not be able to respond in time to signs of over-supply and waning house prices, "so a general oversupply is more likely to build up".</p>
<p>The RBA warns that "if these risks materialise, there could be an increase in the proportion of newly completed apartments that fail to settle and a rise in the share of work yet to be commenced that is not undertaken".</p>
<p>The central bank said conditions in the established housing market differ significantly across the country (Graph 3.7; Graph 3.8). </p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.7.png" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p class="p1"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.7.png" alt=""></span></p>
<p class="p1"> </p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.8.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="p1"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.8.png" alt=""></span></p>
<p>Conditions in the housing market in Sydney and Melbourne strengthened over the second half of 2016, but they have remained relatively subdued elsewhere. In the private treaty market, the average discount on vendor asking prices has decreased, but the average number of days that a property is on the market has increased from the lows of 2015, mainly reflecting developments outside Sydney and Melbourne.</p>
<p>In general, price growth for detached houses has been stronger than for apartments, particularly in the capital cities where the supply of new apartments has increased the most. </p>
<p>For example, in the second half of 2016, apartment prices declined noticeably in Brisbane while growth in prices for detached houses increased. Conditions in Perth remain particularly weak; prices and rents have continued to decline and the vacancy rate has increased further (Graph 3.9). </p>
<p>Rental growth in the rest of the country remains subdued and vacancy rates have been steady near their long-run average for some time.</p>
<p class="p2"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.9.png" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"><span>Click to enlarge</span></span></a></p>
<p class="p2"><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"> <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph3.9.png" alt=""></span></p>
<p class="p1"><strong>Low interest rates support demand</strong></p>
<p>The RBA said low interest rates are support housing demand.</p>
<p>"Over recent months, loan approvals have picked up, largely reflecting stronger demand from investors. Bank lending standards have been tightened over the past couple of years, which is a positive development given the already high levels of debt," it added.</p>
<p>Housing credit growth increased a little in recent months to an annualised rate of around 6½ per cent, but remains below the pace seen in 2015. The pick-up in housing credit growth reflected faster growth in credit extended to investors more than offsetting slower growth in owner-occupier credit, and has been consistent with trends in housing loan approvals (Graph 4.13).</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph4.13.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="p1"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph4.13.png" alt=""> </p>
<p>The recent strength in housing loan approvals was concentrated in New South Wales and Victoria, while conditions remain weak in Western Australia (Graph 4.14), it said. The recent increase in overall housing loan approvals is consistent with a pick-up in housing price growth and turnover.</p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph4.14.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph4.14.png" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Graph4.14.png" alt=""></a></p>
<p class="p1">Average loan-to-valuation ratios are continuing to decline, reflecting the effects of tighter lending standards that were in part prompted by the measures introduced earlier by APRA.</p>
<p class="p1">According to the central bank, "a significant portion of the increase in investor credit growth is also likely to reflect the extension of credit to investors settling the payment of newly completed apartments that were purchased off the plan at an earlier time." </p>
<p class="p1">The pick-up in investor credit growth also follows reductions in interest rates through the middle of 2016. Since November, most lenders have increased fixed and some variable housing interest rates, especially for investors or borrowers with interest-only loans.</p>
<p class="p1">Three of the four major banks have increased their standard variable rates for investor loans by 7–15 basis points but have left owner-occupier rates unchanged. Two major banks also announced increases in interest rates for interest-only loans. Other lenders have increased variable lending rates to both owner-occupiers and investors by 10–15 basis points. Some lenders have indicated that they have implemented these changes in response to higher funding costs and to meet regulatory requirements, such as APRA’s guidance for a maximum growth rate on investor credit of 10 per cent. Overall, these interest rate increases are estimated to have boosted the average outstanding housing interest rate by less than 5 basis points (see Table 4.2). </p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Table4.2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p class="p1"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Table4.2.png" alt=""></p>
<p class="p1">In addition to increasing the differential between advertised interest rates for new owner-occupier and investor loans, many lenders appear to have reduced the discretionary discounts available to new borrowers, it said.</p>
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Apartment oversupply could push down prices, hurting Melbourne and Brisbane developers: RBA

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<div>The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) released its Statement on Monetary Policy for February 2017.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Lots to digest as usual!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Firstly, and probably the most interesting part, I thought, was the section concerning inflation forecasts. </div>
<p><span>The RBA sees inflation returning to the 2 to 3 percent target range, and as such interest rates are now likely to be on hold unless the labour market deteriorates from here. </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/RBA1.jpg">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<div class="separator">
<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/2017/02/13/RBA1.jpg" alt=""> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Secondly, it also looks as though forecasts for growth in the economy are quite upbeat, tracking at around 3 per cent in 2017/18 and 3 per cent in 2018/19, before potentially rising further. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/RBA2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<p> <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/2017/02/13/RBA2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Finally, housing.<br><br>There was lots to look at in terms of housing markets, although nothing particularly ground-breaking. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rental price growth is soft, apartment approvals are falling sharply, and turnover in the housing market is well below the average since 2008, reflecting low levels of stock on the market.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/TO.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
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<div class="separator"><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/2017/02/13/TO.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>On another related point, it's interesting to see that after copping a huge amount of heat for possibly 'overstating' dwelling price growth, CoreLogic's index has now seen other data providers catch up towards a similar rate of growth.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fwYuSVH_zK0/WJ1xtkyg0nI/AAAAAAAAhq4/yj9DVQpv9DcgG2YagkiH7egejLALYgDhQCLcB/s1600/RBA1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fwYuSVH_zK0/WJ1xtkyg0nI/AAAAAAAAhq4/yj9DVQpv9DcgG2YagkiH7egejLALYgDhQCLcB/s1600/RBA1.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fwYuSVH_zK0/WJ1xtkyg0nI/AAAAAAAAhq4/yj9DVQpv9DcgG2YagkiH7egejLALYgDhQCLcB/s400/RBA1.jpg" width="391" height="400"></a></div>
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<div class="separator">
<em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of </em><a href="https://allenwargent.com/"><span class="s2"><em>AllenWargent</em></span></a><em> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and </em><a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/"><span class="s2"><em>blogger</em></span></a><em>. </em>
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Apartment approvals are falling sharply: Pete Wargent

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<p>Apartments in the Central and North Coast of New South Wales, the Gold Coast, Coffs Harbour and Melbourne are at market peak in February, according to the latest property clock from Herron Todd White. </p>
<p>Units in Adelaide, Darwin, Townsville and Whitsundays are at the bottom of the market.</p>
<p>Coffs Harbour's residential units were peaking in January. </p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2012.57.48%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2012.57.48%20PM.png" alt=""></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Property Observer found this two bedroom apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-sawtell-124657638" target="_blank">9/69 Boronia St Sawtell</a> (below) listed for sale for $345,000. It last traded for $195,000 in 2013.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-06%20at%2011.07.18%20AM.png" alt=""></p>
<p>A two bedroom apartment, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-coffs+harbour-124474918" target="_blank">2/4 Solitary St Coffs Harbour</a>, (below) is on the market for $395,000, having last sold for $308,500 in 2007.</p>
<div id="listing_header">
<h1><span><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-06%20at%2011.10.26%20AM.png" alt=""></span></h1>
A two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-coffs+harbour-124425778" target="_blank">20/22 Orlando Street</a> (below) that has been listed for sale for $615,000.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It last sold for $395,000 in 2013.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2017/06/20_22%20Orlando%20Street.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>  </div>
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Apartments along NSW coastline top of February property clock: HTW

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>Lenders failing to provide off the plan apartment purchasers with a funding pre-approval which lasts until settlement could prove costly for thousands of buyers in Victoria.</p>
<p>Victorians who bought off the plan apartments scheduled to be completed this year face losing their deposits due to new design standards requiring more space.</p>
<p>The big four banks have made a policy in line with the new standards by refusing to lend for one-bedroom apartments smaller than 50 sqm.</p>
<p>The situation is unfair as banks had applied different standards for the developers of the apartment projects.</p>
<p>If banks are prepared to fund a development for construction then they should take the same stance on providing finance when it comes to the buyers of those off-the-plan apartments.</p>
<p>Many Melbourne apartment projects due to be completed in 2017 were designed in 2014 or prior, before the discussions about the new designguidelines had even been made public.</p>
<p>The banks should be offering to fund the buyers of those apartments under the same policy that exists when the construction started.</p>
<p>Buyers of off-the-plan apartments should be able to go to the bank that funds the construction and take out a pre-approval that will last them until settlement.</p>
<p>This reduces a part of the risk for the buyer as they don’t have finance risk. It also reduces problems for the developer as they don’t have settlement risk and overall it’s a win/win situation for the bank.</p>
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<div>
<p><em>Mark Mendel, is founder and chief executive officer of iBuyNew.com.au and can be contacted <a href="https://www.ibuynew.com.au/">here.</a></em></p>
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Lender design stance just hurts buyers: iBuyNew's Mark Mendel

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<p class="p1"><span class="s1">While Sydney suburbs dominated CoreLogic’s top 10 list that looked at the biggest change in median values for units in the 12 months to September 2016, Melbourne too figured prominently with Carrum at number six.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Carrum (postcode 3197) had a median unit price of $552,017 with a change of 26.3 percent over the same period, according to CoreLogic’s Best of the Best 2016 report. There were a 80 deals during the period.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/11/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-11%20at%209.40.46%20AM.png" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.16px;">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/01/11/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-11%20at%209.40.46%20AM.png" alt=""></p>
<p>Property Observer looked up some sales around the median price.</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s7" style="font-size: 12.16px;">A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-carrum-122706622" target="_blank">2/13 True Avenue, </a></span><span class="s6" style="font-size: 12.16px;"><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-carrum-122706622" target="_blank">Carrum, Vic 3197</a> sold for $550,000 in June 2016 through Harcourts. It previously sold in 2015 for $400,000, according to RP Data, reflecting a change in value of 37.5 percent in just over a year.</span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s6" style="font-size: 12.16px;"> <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/2017/01/16/Carrum2.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p class="p4"><span class="s1" style="font-size: 12.16px;">A three-bedroom unit at </span><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-carrum-121649046" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.16px;"><span class="s2">7/36 Melaluca, </span><span class="s3">Carrum, Vic 3197</span></a><span class="s4" style="font-size: 12.16px;"> sold for </span><span class="s5" style="font-size: 12.16px;">$540,000 in 2016 after being on the market for 603 days, according to RP Data. Its last listed price was $598,000, according to RP Data. </span></p>
<p class="p4"><span class="s5" style="font-size: 12.16px;"><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/2017/01/16/Carrum.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><span class="s5">Melbourne's only other entrant on the list was Keysborough. </span></p>
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Carrum ranked second best price growth suburb for units in Melbourne in 2016

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<p class="x_MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;" align="center">GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>Houses outshone units across Melbourne in 2016, but 2017 may well be the year of the apartment for the astute investor.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal">Period- or older-style apartment performance was sluggish in 2016 across Melbourne, with activity, rental and capital growth rates measured relative to houses. There was a dampening effect caused by an excessive boom in the high-rise or multi-unit sector over recent years.</p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>But it is evident from ABS financing and building approval numbers that the much-needed correction in the multi-unit sector has begun, and prices and volumes of new supply in this category will continue to shrink over 2017.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>Consequently, there is a strong case to be made that period style apartments are undervalued at the moment. Indeed, with investors looking for safer assets in 2017, we anticipate a rush-to-quality out of high rise and into older-style apartments and houses.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span>Growth continues in 2017. Around 5 to 10 percent in inner suburbs.</span></strong></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>Although residential property has performed strongly in Melbourne over the last four years, don’t be surprised if 2017 sees further growth.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>Underpinning this view is evidence of persistent buyer demand off the back of lower interest rates, and a shortage of stock on the market. This shortage of stock is essentially the result of four years of buoyant sales volumes exhausting the pool of discretionary vendors. Eventually, one would expect potential sellers to respond positively to the price growth signal out there, but it hasn’t happened yet, and it may not eventuate until sometime in mid-2017.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>Furthermore, the broader fundamentals of the market remain benevolent:  a rising population, a relatively steady economy – with unemployment appearing to be stabilising around 6% – and, of course, low interest rates.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><span>In-demand property types in the inner and middle ring suburbs should record solid capital growth of around 5 to 10 per cent in 2017. But lower-demand properties in the high rise CBD sector and outer suburban areas will see little growth.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span>Paul’s tips for those considering property in 2017.</span></strong></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span>Don’t procrastinate</span></strong><span>. The Melbourne auction market remained unusually active right up to the final weekend of the year. This augurs well for 2017, as our experience is that a late end-of-year run invariably heralds a good start to the following year. If you are a prospective buyer, don’t make the mistake of waiting to see what happens in February and March before jumping in. You may find that property prices are 5 per cent higher in April than they finished 2016.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span>Don’t place too much weight on overseas events.</span></strong><span> The commentariat spent much of November and December agonising over the implications of the coming Trump presidency. Just know that the Australian property market has been subject to numerous external shocks that were supposed to damage it  – the GFC, the tech wreck, wars and international terrorist events – and didn’t.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><strong><span>Focus on what you can control.</span></strong><span> Whilst you can’t control what happens to the world economy or who is in the White House, you can control the property assets that you invest in.  Make getting that right your priority. Focus on selecting high quality property with a track record and propensity for capital growth.</span></p>
<p class="x_MsoNormal"><em>Paul Nugent is a director of Wakelin Property Advisory and can be contacted <a href="https://www.wakelin.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>. </em></p>
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Investors will rediscover value in period-style Melbourne apartments: Paul Nugent

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<div id="post-body-8331073014349855294" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>One should typically expect to see vacancy rates rise in December and January, and nationally vacancy rates were up to 2.8 per cent before Christmas according to SQM Research. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The increase was largely driven by Brisbane, which jumped to 3.7 percent.  </div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/VR.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><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/2017/01/17/VR.jpg" alt=""></div>
<br><div>As these numbers aren't seasonally adjusted it's technically 'chart crime' to smooth them over a few months, but nevertheless this can help to give a sense of the trend. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/VR2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<br><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/2017/01/17/VR2.jpg" alt=""><br><br><div>We expect to see seasonal spikes in vacancy rates in suburbs such as Indro, Toowong, and perhaps Milton, at least in part because there are fewer students around over the summer break. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The tasty action is happening in the construction hubs such as the Valley and Newstead...</div>
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<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/4006.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a><br><div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator"><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/2017/01/17/4006.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em> </em></span></div>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Source: SQM Research</em></span></div>
<br><div>And especially South Brisbane and West End, though the student effect is a part of this December jump too.</div>
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<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/4101.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<br><div class="separator"><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/2017/01/17/4101.jpg" alt=""></div>
<br><div><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Source: SQM Research</span></em></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div>The trend is not the landlord's friend in these areas, with several thousand more inner city apartment completions expected to come onstream before the end of June. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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Where Brisbane landords face rental challenges in 2017: Pete Wargent

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<p><span>Oversupply is slated to effect the Brisbane apartment with price growth for 2017 predicted between -4 to zero percent, according to HSBC.</span></p>
<p><span>Paul Bloxham, HSBC senior economist said there will be limited effect on the detached house market due to the lack of substitutability. </span></p>
<p><span>"A key difference for the Brisbane market, when compared with Melbourne, is that housing price growth has been far more limited than in Melbourne, which could limit the scope for significant price falls," he said.</span></p>
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Apartment oversupply to drive Brisbane prices: Paul Bloxham's 2017 forecast

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<p>The asking price for a one bedroom unit in Perth has been discounted from $320,000 in September to $250,000 according to SQM Research.</p>
<p>SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said the Perth vacancy rate is very high at 7.3 percent and looks like it could be going up still, while<a href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=fe3dc22b2f&amp;e=0aab96dc54"> </a>asking rents for units are well down over the past three years.</p>
<p>"Back in September, the owner of 1019/305 Murray Street wanted $320,000. Now, after successive price drops, the price tag for this one-bedroom unit has dropped to $250,000, so you could be bagging a bargain," he said.</p>
<p>"There is some very sobering news on the Perth CBD.</p>
<p>"A<a href="https://sqmresearch.us5.list-manage1.com/track/click?u=9badbd870addb4af72206c2eb&amp;id=df8a1d628b&amp;e=0aab96dc54">s</a>king prices for some units are up and look like they could be bottoming. Given the big discount of $70,000, it may be worth a look. But if you're a landlord looking to invest, you might be scratching around for tenants for some time, as business activity in Perth remains depressed due to the mining downturn, keeping the vacancy rate well up."</p>
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Perth one bedder listed at $250k: SQM Research

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<p>Liberal politician Tim Wilson has leased his one bedroom apartment in the middle of South Yarra for $500 a week.</p>
<p>He's lived the South Yarra lifestyle for six years but he and partner Ryan Bolger have moved following Wilson gaining preselection for the Liberal seat of Goldstein.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.hockingstuart.com.au/UNIT_5_11-21_MARNE_STREET_SOUTH_YARRA_VIC_3141_LEASED" target="_blank">art deco apartment</a> (above) in the Castle Towers building is located between Fawkner Park and the Royal Botanical Gardens.</p>
<p>Wilson paid $560,000 in 2010 for the apartment.</p>
<p>According to <em>The Australian</em>, they are off to Sandringham.</p>
<p>The couple paid $755,000 for the 1975 unit.</p>
<p>The two bedroom street front villa had a price guide of $780,000.</p>
<p>It sold through Chisholm&amp;Gamon agents Sarah Eckert and Len Sharp.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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