A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Apartment Market

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Scott Tanner, the boss of Bank of Melbourne, retains his much listed luxury three-bedroom Isis apartment in South Yarra after it did not sell at weekend auction.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/3-262-domain-rd-south-yarra-vic-3141" target="_blank">The Domain Road apartment</a> cost $2.7 million in 2009 in the block of seven known as one of Melbourne’s Tower of Power.”
It is now listed at $3.495 million through Marshall White. 
It was advertised last year as a $2000 weekly rental.
It was developed about 10 years ago by boutique builder Arno Corporation.
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No sale yet for BoM's Scott Tanner in South Yarra

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The latest Master Builders Survey of Building and Construction shows industry sentiment holding up, despite a recent deterioration in some of the leading indicators. 
Matthew Pollock, housing national manager said there had been a bounce in sales contracts and a loosening of skills shortage constraints. 
“By sector, house builders for detached housing were the most positive, particularly in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland where strong population growth continues to support a healthy pipeline of work-on-the-books," he said.
"These results show that while activity in inner-city apartment markets may drop off over the next two years, broader industry sentiment remains positive,” he said in reference to the September quarter issue of Master Builders quarterly National Survey of Building and Construction. 
“Sentiment here is supported by ABS statistics which show residential construction work holding up - up by 1.2 per cent in the June quarter 2016 to be 6.6 per cent up on over the year"
“But areas of vulnerability remain,” he said.
“Non-residential builders have lowered profit expectations and non-residential work-on-the-books is soft. Typically, these are good leading indicators for industry prospects, with the current results pointing to a slower period for the nation’s non-residential builders,” Matthew Pollock said.
“The CBD office markets in Perth and Brisbane remain a lingering weight on broader sectoral business conditions as the resource boom hangover continues to cast a long shadow. Other pockets of vulnerability include inner-city apartment markets, and pretty much the entire engineering construction sector,” he said.
“In terms of employment, the survey shows labour availability has loosened across the board, with all construction related occupations covered in the survey showing index values of below 50,” he said.
The loosening of labour market conditions is good news as long as building activity holds steady, but less positive prospects going forward may pose a risk to employment.
"Jobs may be at risk if building activity was to deteriorate beyond current market expectations,” Matthew Pollock said.
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Inner-city apartment markets have a vulnerability: Master Builders

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The photographer Mark Morffew has listed his ultra bright designer pad overlooking Bondi Beach.
Accessed through an expensive private front courtyard, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-bondi+beach-123870394" target="_blank">the two bedroom, two bathroom apartment</a> comes with interiors by Lawless &amp; Meyerson.
The walls are lined with photographic works.
The living and dining areas flow onto an ocean-facing terrace.
The master bedroom offers terrace access and the second bedroom opens to a rear entertaining courtyard.
Belle Property Double Bay agent Albert Sassoon has a November 16 auction date.
One of the blocks most recent sales came in May when other two bedroom apartments sold for $3.8 million and at $4.2 million. 
He paid $2.9 million for the 94 sqm Notts Avenue apartment.
The Pacific Terraces development was undertake by Bill Shipton in 1983 with financing from the late Kerry Packer.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Mark Morffew lists at Bondi Beach through Belle Property

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The popular Channel 7 trackside horse racing presenter Francesca Cumani and her polo playing husband Rob Archibald have bought a Sydney bolthole.
It is a $2.48 million Randwick penthouse, not far from the track.
The purchase came following the birth of the couple's first child, Harry, in April.
The UK-born Cumani is busy with the Emirates Spring Carnival.
Having studied languages at university, Cumani came to Australia in 2006 with father, the UK based trainer Luca Cumani, to run Glistening in the Melbourne Cup.
Cumani's career soon shone. 
After finishing runner up with Purple Moon (2007) and Bauer (2008), Francesca received an unexpected request from Channel 7 asking to join their Melbourne Cup panel.
Having since hosted The Winning Post on CNN, the English born TV star has just been announced as part of the UK team covering ITV's flat racing for the next four years alongside Sky Sports veteran Ed Chamberlin who has switched to ITV.
Cumani has insider-knowledge aplenty. She grew up in the Newmarket stables of her Derby-winning father Luca and rode as an amateur.
Francesca is now an ambassador for next January's Magic Millions.
The 2017 Magic Millions event will introduce polo for the first time, with an exhibition match between ambassadors Cumani, equestrian champion Royal Zara Phillips and some of the best players in the world, including Cumani's husband Rob Archibald.
Cumani married Archibald, one of Australia's top ranked polo players, in 2014. He is heir to a 70 year legacy of polo pony breeding, training and playing.
Francesca brother Matt Cumani is also in the horse racing world. 
Beginning his training at Ballarat, Matt has shot onto the scene as a trainer of international horse Grey Lion, which runs in the Geelong Cup later this month.
Grey Lion is chasing a start in the Melbourne Cup, however would need a weight penalty to make the final field.
Their three bedroom, two bathroom apartment sits atop the award-winning Pindari complex featuring an expansive split-level layout.
Its a spacious 291 sqm apartment that encourages indoor and outdoor living amid tranquil treescape vista.
It was bought from Adam Geha, who paid $1.01 million in 2005, was the architect behind the complex which won the 2009 RAIA National Architecture Award for Multi-Unit Residential
It had previously been a $2,000 a week rental before being sold by N G Farah Real Estate Coogee agent Peter McGuire.
It had been on the market for just under a year.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
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Horse racing trackside star Francesca Cumani buys Randwick penthouse 

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The Reserve Bank has noted there is a danger that apartment buyers will default on off the plan purchases because of falling ­prices along with the difficulty of obtaining ­finance.
“These risks appear greatest in inner-city Brisbane and Melbourne, where the new supply is largest relative to the existing dwelling stock,” the Reserve Bank said in its latest review of the ­stability of the Australian financial system, released on Friday.
The RBA said the chance of developer sales falling through had been ­increased by new bank restrictions.
These included the restrictions on lending to buyers with foreign incomes, aimed mainly at Chinese investors, and also the more rigorous requirements now being ­imposed by the local banks on mortgage borrowers generally.
“There are signs that some settlements are taking longer and lending valuations are coming in below their contract price, though settlement failures to date remain low,” the bank noted.
The Reserve Bank’s concerns were shared by the banking regulator, the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority.
But APRA's chairman Wayne Byers told a parliamentary committee on Friday that the biggest lending exposures to the east coast apartment boom were taken on by Asian banks, rather than by the big four Australian banks.
The Reserve Bank estimated that 16,000 new apartments in Melbourne over the next two years would add around 18 per cent to the city’s stock of inner-city housing, while an additional 12,000 in Brisbane would add 15 per cent to exisiting stock levels.
Sydney's increase is only around six per cent and the 10,000 new ­apartments scheduled for completion over the next two years spread across the city.
The RBA noted apartment ­prices and rents were weaker in Melbourne and Brisbane, while vacancies were higher.
“If apartment markets were to turn down and settlement difficulties become more widespread, banks would be more likely to incur some loan losses,” the ­bank said.
It said housing default rates in Australia had historically been very low, about 0.5 per cent, with home buyers having a high level of collateral.
The Reserve Bank noted that during the post 2008 global financial crisis, house prices fell by between 30 and 50 per cent in the most affected nations.
“However, Australia is not facing the same economic and financial headwinds as Spain or Ireland did during the financial crisis,” it added.
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RBA fears off the plan apartment non-settlement jitters especially in Melbourne and Brisbane

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The Australian columnist Robert Gottliebsen says the Australian apartment market is close to a meltdown.
He suggested Australia faces the potential of Chinese walking away from apartment settlements at the rate of between $1 billion and $1.5 billion a month for a year or two.
"In the worst case scenario a large number of apartment developers go to the wall taking with them many unsecured suppliers," he wrote.
He advised that Sydney’s Harry Triguboff went into the crisis without debt and can cushion the impact on the city.
"Melbourne and to a lesser extent the already depressed Brisbane will feel the full force of any disaster," the veteran columnist advised.
He added that much was being done to reduce or avoid the above scenario taking place.
He said that the Australian apartment developments are in three baskets:
First, those being developed by large well-capitalised enterprises like Meriton or the listed apartment developer.
Second, those being developed by developers with big Chinese backing and funded by Chinese banks. They are highly leveraged;
Third, developers funded by Australian banks.
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Apartment meltdown looming as Chinese think of walking away

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An oversupply of new apartments in some regions in Australia over the next two years will pressure both real estate prices and rental returns from investment properties in these areas, says Moody's Investors Service.
The conclusions were contained in Moody’s report titled Apartment Construction Boom Poses Moderate Risk to Australian RMBS, which is based on the data in its supplementary excel report, Australian RMBS Exposure to Apartments in High-Density Regions. 
Around 230,000 new apartments are due to be completed across all the capital cities of Australia by 2018, according to Corelogic. This figure is more than double the annual average sales of apartments over the five years to April 2016. And more than half will be built in regions where there is already a large supply of existing apartments.
"Such a development will in turn raise the risk for residential mortgage-backed securities (RMBS) exposed to these 'high-density regions', but for Moody's-rated RMBS portfolio overall, the rise in risk will be moderate," says Natsumi Matsuda, an analyst at the credit rating firm.
"Specifically, with the Australian RMBS that we rate, there is a moderate overall exposure of 5.6% to mortgages on apartments in high-density regions," said Matsuda. 
"Furthermore, the risk posed to RMBS is mitigated by the level of equity that is available to absorb losses if borrowers default, as highlighted by the low weighted average loan-to-value (LTV) ratio of mortgages on apartments in high-density regions.” 
Exhibit 1 shows the exposure of the Australian RMBS portfolio to regions where, according to Corelogic, the largest number of new apartments is due to be completed over the next two years. The RMBS portfolio's largest exposures to apartments in these high- density regions are in the Sydney Inner City and Melbourne City regions, which are ranked first and third in terms of the areas with the most new apartments due to be completed over the next two years. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit1.jpg" alt="">
On LTV on mortgages in high-density regions, the current level is 62.5 percent, which drops to 47.6 percent after considering the increase in apartment prices.
Exhibit 2 below shows the five deals with the largest exposure to mortgages on apartments in high-density regions. In all of these deals, mortgage loans have low LTVs on weighted average basis, which means there is a material level of equity to absorb losses if borrowers default. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit2.jpg" alt="">
Exhibit 3 below lists the five deals with the lowest exposure to mortgages on apartments in high-density regions. These deals face the least risk from the increase in the supply of apartments in high-density regions.  
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit3.jpg" alt=""> 
Melbourne suburbs have least additional equity to absorb losses
Of the high-density regions to which the Australian RMBS portfolio is exposed, mortgages in inner Melbourne have the least additional equity (7.6%) for absorbing losses, owing to the relatively low level of apartment price increases, says Moody’s.
Prices in the Melbourne City region have risen by just 5% over the last five years, compared with the 40% rise in Sydney apartment prices over this period.
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit4.jpg" alt="">
A relatively high proportion of mortgages on apartments in high-density regions are investment (46.5%) and interest-only (31%) mortgages, which adds to the risk, says Moody. 
Investment and interest-only mortgages are typically riskier than owner occupier and principle and interest mortgages, because, among other factors, borrowers typically repay loans slower and will therefore build equity more slowly. 
In the RMBS portfolio, the slower repayment of housing investment and interest-only mortgages is evident in the higher LTVs of these loans when compared with the overall portfolio, as Exhibit 5 shows. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit5.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/10/13/Exhibit5.jpg" alt="">
Furthermore, the large supply of new apartments due to be completed in high-density regions will put downward pressure on apartment rents in these areas and drive up vacancy rates, lowering the return for investors who rely on rental income to repay their housing investment loans. 
Rental yields on apartments in Sydney and Melbourne are already at the lowest levels in a decade. Such developments will in turn pressure mortgage performance.
 
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Rising supply of apartments in Australia to pressure prices, especially inner Melbourne: Moody’s

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Australia's apartment market is self-correcting with fewer projects in the pipeline, according to Andrew Schwartz, the co-founder and managing director of real estate investment firm, Qualitas.
But it won't crash, Schwartz suggests.
He suggested the Australian market had certain qualities that allowed it to self-correct including high levels of migration, a demographic shift towards apartment living and low and stable levels of rental vacancy.
Another key distinction of the local market is the mix of foreign and local buyers.  “Although there has been a lot of concern expressed about the volume of sales to foreign buyers, the Australian banks – again, using very prudent lending standards - have insisted that a maximum of 30% (and often much lower) of total sales could be made to foreign purchasers.   “In addition, we know from our own experience that approximately one-third of all foreign buyers settle using their own cash resources.
"So, even assuming all the remaining foreign purchasers fail to settle - which seems a very harsh assumption - the banks will still have very comfortable levels of security,” Mr Schwartz said.  “Given the high level of pre-sales required upfront, the dominance of local buyers, and the banks’ conservative lending standards, we think it’s highly unlikely that there would be a rush of bank liquidation sales for apartments.  “There could be a short period where there is some market excess, but overall, we continue to see the absorption rates being strong, as evidenced by continuing sales across well-designed projects.  “The demographics also continue to weigh in favour of residential apartments – including an ageing population seeking to downsize, an influx of offshore students, and continued high levels of immigration,” Mr Schwartz said.
The boutique lender, which was founded in 2008, has financed or invested in $3.5 billion worth of real estate projects, mostly apartment projects.
He anticipated any potential apartment over supply would be short-lived. 
"By 2020, prices will have risen, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, to support a new round of much-needed development projects," he said.
"However, we do see some warnings on the horizon for the short term. This includes increased supply concentrated into specific precincts across Australia, fully priced site values, rising construction costs, lower levels of available construction finance, and curbs on loans to foreign purchasers and additional taxes for this group," he said.
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Australian apartment market won't crash: Qualitas

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Apartment prices in Sydney are more expansive than houses everywhere else in the country, according to CoreLogic.
Sydney apartments have a $675,000 median. Melbourne houses and Canberra houses are the closest in price. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/03/Capital%20growth.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/03/Capital%20growth.jpg" alt="">
 
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Apartment prices in Sydney more expansive than houses everywhere else in the country: CoreLogic

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Sales rates for new apartments within inner Brisbane experienced a slight decline in the June quarter according to the latest residential apartment market report by Urbis.
Paul Riga, associate director at Urbis said this has been on the back of political and regulatory distractions, however the outcome is that supply of new developments coming to the market – the future pipeline of apartment product has started to self-regulate. 
“Primary factors driving the slowing supply of product are increasing construction costs, high development site acquisition costs, a competitive pricing market, and added costs required to give developments a point of difference," he said.
“These factors have culminated with tightening developer finance across the Inner Brisbane residential market. The positive from this slowdown in future supply is that it will allow product under construction to absorb into the rental market without an ongoing flow of high levels of new apartment supply. 
“The vacancy rate was at 0.6 percent in March quarter 2016, with over 2,350 new and near-new apartments being surveyed across the inner Brisbane.
 “This indicates a significantly tighter rental market when compared to the total inner Brisbane rental market, which recorded a 3.3 per cent vacancy rate for houses and units according to the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ)."
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<div align="justify">Brisbane CBD luxury apartments priced over $1 million have experienced an average capital gain of $207,241 according to Colliers International, with 29 apartments sold in the last 12 months at an average sale price of $1,515,172.  </div>
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Lily O’Connell, residential project manager at Colliers International said the sales volumes may seem light on, it does indicate that there are not many options in the CBD that suit purchasers with a budget of over $1 million, creating competition in a limited market place.
“As reported by Urbis, there were only four new developments within the CBD over the June quarter, with only two additional projects expected to enter the market in the next six months.
“Due to the demand for quality product within the CBD, Mary Lane’s three bedroom residences are proving very popular, particularly with owner occupiers. 
“These north facing residences are selling for an average of $1.49m and feature 2.7m high ceilings, exclusive on-floor storage and expansive glazing with views to the Story Bridge and Brisbane River. 
“Mary Lane residents can also enjoy hotel services offered by The Westin Brisbane such as in-room dining, maid service, use of hotel spa, bar and restaurants,” said Ms O’Connell.
 
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