Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.

Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.

There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" />

Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."

The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;

The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;

Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a>

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a> 
&nbsp;

Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

Joel Robinson

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.

<img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" />

A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.

Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.

New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.

GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.

First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.

The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.

Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368853]

The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.

GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available.

Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]

The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.

The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]

For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.

GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.

"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.

"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]

GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.

The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.

The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.

<img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" />

A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.

The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.

"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.

The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.

Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."

The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.

<img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" />

The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.

S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.

Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.

John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.

First look: S&S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street

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.

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

Appointment

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ING Australia has announced the appointment of Dr John Laker to the position of Chair of ING Australia, effective January 2020.
Dr Laker has served on the ING board since January 2019.
Dr Laker’s career in finance spans more than 45 years and includes roles in the Commonwealth Treasury, the International Monetary Fund (Washington), the Reserve Bank of Australia (Assistant Governor Financial System) and the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (Chair).
Dr Laker is currently Chair of the Board of the Banking and Finance Oath, Deputy Chancellor of the University of Technology Sydney, member of the Experts Panel of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Director of Cancer Council NSW and Cancer Council Australia.
He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia in 2008.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Dr John Laker appointed as chair of ING Australia

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Fifth generation real estate veteran Geoff White has been appointed CoreLogic's national head of real estate. 
White has been a prominent member of the Victoria real estate industry and has been CoreLogic Group Sales Director since 2017. He previously headed up the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
He said his time with CoreLogic Victoria has help him understand CoreLogic's numerous technologies.
“I’ve learnt first-hand the importance of the tools we deliver to our real estate clients for better business practices - particularly how our rich data and analytics is used, and also how our products support the day to day operation of real estate professionals, groups and the industry as a whole," he said.
White said he is looking forward to developing partnership as the sector continues to grow.
“Sales and listings data is at the core of our business, and we value our extensive relationships with the real estate industry," he said.
“Through onthehouse.com.au, provides a unique opportunity to educate consumers whilst linking them to real estate agents. As a result we’ve already started generating substantial interest from agents looking for alternative opportunities to connect with engaged consumers whilst promoting properties for sale and rent.”
“We partner with all sectors of the real estate industry from Real Estate Institutes, to Franchise and Marketing groups through to individual agencies and sales and property management executives.
“I’m looking forward to continuing and developing this further, ensuring everyone has the best possible real estate solutions available to them.”
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CoreLogic CEO International Lisa Claes said CoreLogic's investment focus is toward smart tech.
"CoreLogic is investing a phenomenal amount into the industry, with a focus on smart tech to make agent delivery of next-level customer service a reality...and that’s really saying something given the real estate industry is often the first to embrace digitisation trends," she said.
“There’s a huge amount coming up. With 7,000+ real estate clients nationally, 4,650 independents and 2,500 franchisees, CoreLogic already offers a critical market function. A major refresh to RP Data Professional is underway on every front: how it looks, how it feels to use, how fast it runs on whichever device you choose.” 
“The mobile functionality within RPP will be head and shoulders above the rest - which, given the nature of real estate: we’re very excited about given some high performing agents are interacting with our tools thousands of times a month.” 
“Our recently launched Signature CMA is market leading, and we continue to improve on it: allowing Real Estate agents to personalise their CMAs and really stand out from the crowd. Ultimately, this makes it easier for agents to win listings, while at the same time ensuring it is quicker and easier to produce CMAs in the format, and with the content, that they choose. 
“We have superior depth and breadth of data so whether an agent is regional, town, or city-based, we genuinely offer more data than anyone else does. We’re now focused on making all that data more consumable and easier for agents to share it with their prospects and clients.” 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

CoreLogic appointed Geoff White to head of real estate

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McGrath Estate Agents has appointed James Hayashi to a newly created role of regional sales leader for its sales team across Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.
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Hayashi has more than 13 years experience from sales, auctioneering, recruitment and sales management.
He worked initially in real estate at BresicWhitney, but says he really kicked off his career at Cooley Auctions, and then more recently for his three years at Phillips Pantzer Donnelley (PPD).
Kon Stathopoulos, head of company sales at McGrath, said this was a very considered and important appointment.
He said it was one that has been met with much enthusiasm within the three offices under the Eastern Suburbs footprint – Edgecliff, Coogee and Maroubra. 
“When searching for someone to lead such an experienced and high performing sales team, we were committed to finding a person of outstanding calibre that would without a doubt add value to each of our agent’s businesses," Stathopoulos said.
"James will provide the leadership, support and coaching required for our current sales teams, and will be charged with growing our agent numbers across the three offices. 
“James comes to us with a wealth of real estate experience, having worked himself as an agent and more recently as a coach and sales manager. He’s an outstanding auctioneer, having been trained by Damien Cooley, and I believe will be a great addition to the incredible talent pool we have with our exclusive auctioneers.” 
In joining McGrath, James said he was attracted by its current leadership and management team, and the company’s focus on learning and development. 
“McGrath is a truly iconic and respected brand and this is a fantastic opportunity for not only my own personal development, but where I’m provided with the support systems necessary to drive internal growth and focus on external recruitment. I plan to hit the ground running,” said James.
The Cranbook educated agent recently appeared in the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBccBF8TQQg" target="_blank">first Carpool Proptech video</a> when he indicated one of the relentless PPD principals had made 400 landline phone connections within a recent three day period to seek listings.
"The more people you connect with.... the more listings and sales you make," Hayashi noted.
Hayashi advised that many agents started out like this, then get a reputation, "then drop off from connecting with the data base...they feel they don't need to put the hard work in."
McGrath's eastern suburbs top performer has been pinpointed as Peter Starr, who was placed 12th in the REB top 100 this year.
The next highest McGrath eastern suburbs agent was the 32nd placed Lorraine Crawford.
  
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James Hayashi joins McGrath to regrow eastern suburbs footprint

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Australia’s third largest real estate platform, VIEW.com.au, has appointed Toby Balazs, as their new CEO.
Balazs joins VIEW having served as a key member of REA’s leadership and online strategy teams since 2004. He worked with property developers and project marketers for the Richmond-based realestate.com.au for a decade and more recently was its manager of online strategy and execution.
Balazs will take over in mid-July from VIEW’s Enzo Raimondo, who has been closely involved with the property listing portal for over 16 years, first as CEO of Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) and later taking over as CEO of RealestateVIEW in 2016. A VIEW spokesperson advised Raimondo's next step was "undetermined."
Announcing Toby’s appointment, VIEW Chairman John Piccolo said Mr Balazs is a dynamic thinker and leader. 
“His track record in executing transformative digital programs has been exceptional and he embodies VIEW’s values of innovation, integrity and fostering strong family ideals”, he said.  
Balazs said he was "honoured and excited" to have been selected.
"Growing VIEW from the 3rd largest player is a challenge I accept with both confidence and determination,” he said. 
Homehound has historically been ranked as 4th ranked listings website, with homely and thehomepage closing in.
“I am committed to continuing VIEW’s momentum based on a differentiated offering, which is resonating strongly in the market — by offering lower fees for real estate agents to list property, and importantly, delivering consumers an exceptional level of real estate industry information on a platform that is free and easy to use.
"My mission is to lead VIEW to even greater things,”  the Perth born, Ivanhoe Grammar, Melbourne-educated executive said. Born in 1975, he completed a bachelor of business at RMIT in the 1990s.
The Hawthorn East-based VIEW recently launched of Property-360, a price estimate tool for over 13 million properties across Australia.
The site calculates Balazs's two bedroom modern Richmond terrace has an $836,000 value, with a $600,000 to $1 million potential value range. He paid $760,000 in 2008, suggesting the calculation algorithm needs refinement. Realestate.com.au put the likely value as between $1,100,000 to $1,374,999. Domain suggest the prospect of $975,000, with an estimated range between $845,000 to $1.11 million. 
The website, which has struggled to get traction outside of Victoria, initially launched in 2001.
Its rebrand last year included an editorial partnership with Independent Media Publishers (IMP), regional and suburban publishers across Victoria, South Australia and Queensland. 
It also has a partnership with the onsite news website, The New Daily.
The Alexa website's back of an envelope calculation puts the VIEW site as the 1000th busiest website in Australia, with realestate sitting 26th, and domain 74th. Homehound sits at around 17,000.
Franchise group websites were not included on the list of portals.
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Toby Balazs appointed CEO of VIEW.com.au

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Robert Maher, one of Australia's top performing commercial real estate agents, has joined @realty.
The national real estate network has signed more than 500 agents to its banner over the past four years.
Maher has been ranked in the top two per cent of Australian real estate agents by sales volume.
He moved to <a href="https://www.atrealty.com.au/" target="_blank">@realty</a> from his role as a commercial property specialist for Gunning Real Estate in the Sutherland Shire.
Maher says he will represent both commercial and residential listings across the Sutherland Shire and surrounding areas. Agents at @realty's can work independently in any region due to their unrestricted zoning policy.
Maher says he chose to work with @realty, which sold a total of $861 million in property in 2017, due to the company's business model, which benefits both agents and their clients.
"@realty is based on the Gold Coast and unlike other franchise agencies, there are no regional offices, which means agents have much more autonomy to work in the way they want to," Maher said.
"It's an excellent alternative system for smaller independent agents  to operate under," he said.
"Vendors benefit from @realty's purchasing power, which allows agents to provide lower cost marketing and a more premium and personalised service than what may be offered by larger franchise groups, which impose numerous restrictions on agents.
"I have only been on board with @realty for a few weeks but I have found the executive team to be highly responsive, led by James and JJ Taylor who have a strong vision for the future of the business.
"The network of agents is also very collaborative. For vendors it is almost like having 500 agents all working to achieve the quickest and best result for every @realty client."
@realty director JJ Taylor says the company has a suite of bespoke software, which gives agents an edge on industry competitors.
"Because the @realty model is the first of its kind in Australia, we actually had to commission  a cloud-based platform to  connect our agents, head office and compliance management teams.
"We then built in to this system bespoke software which automatically searches all listings and compares them to potential buyer profiles to find a match, which effectively means that all 500 of our agents are working to make a sale.
"In addition to this, we have Click2Buy - an eBay style platform, which allows buyers to compete on an even playing field by viewing any offers made by other prospective purchasers in real-time.
"Another tool we offer is Home Booster - a social media platform, which has  generated a total of more than 21,000 leads for the 50 vendors who have listed their home on the platform in recent months.
"Home Booster allows agents to target homebuyers on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter within proximity of the listed property, retarget buyers who have previously visited @realty listings or have demonstrated online activity suggesting an interest in real estate, so it's highly targeted.
"@realty recently won the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) Innovation award and we try be innovative in all that we do.
"We believe @realty has been a game changer not only for agents but also for buyers and vendors who benefit from our approach to selling real estate using custom technology and a unique business model."
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Robert Maher moves to @realty

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Former Marshall White director Adrian Wood has joined The Agency's Albert Park office.
He teams up with recent addition Michael Paproth and Peter Kakos.
Last year Wood sold $70 million in residential property and has a 97% clearance rate over the last two years.
Just last week he transacted $13.6 million in off-market sales.
Wood has a reputation for achieving a high rate of off-market sales, and repeat sales of the same property.
Based in The Agency’s new Albert Park office, Adrian Wood specialises in the $2 to $6 million residential category across Port Phillip and the surrounding markets.
General manager Peter Kakos said Woods is one of the best agents in the area.
“Our focus from day one has been to attract the very best people who fit well culturally and will live our values,” Kakos said. 
“Adrian Wood’s exceptional customer focus marries beautifully with his 20 plus years of experience, incredible drive and significant level of success. 
The Agency’s model and inherent flexibility attracted Adrian Wood to the brand. 
“The Agency business model is the right model for real estate moving forward," Wood said.
"Agents run their own business within the model, representative of our view that brands don’t sell property, people do.
 “Buyers and sellers want transparency, they want an agent who understands current market trends and can be nimble, fresh and exciting enough to design a campaign focused on attracting and engaging the right buyers based on the client’s needs and not a company need.” General manager Peter Kakos said The Agency offers agents more freedom with agents "rewarded for their services and skills" through a number of verticals with The Agency, particularly the ability to build equity through property management asset sharing.
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Former Marshall White director joins The Agency in Melbourne

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Aqualand Australia has lured high-­profile former Mirvac head of residential, John Carfi, to run its Sydney-focused operations.
Cafri has spent the last 18 months in the Middle East where he was the CEO of development at Dubai-based real estate firm Emaar Properties where he delivered multiple large-scale, mixed-use developments.
There was an end value of more than US $120B and annual turnover of more than US $15B.
Prior to his move to Emaar in 2016, Carfi had been Mirvac's CEO of residential development for 15 years.
He began his career in the real estate industry back in the late 1980s at Lendlease.
Carfi will become chief executive of the Chinese-backed Aqualand from July, The Australian reported.
Aqualand managing director Jin Lin told The Australian Carfi's appointment is the next step in Aqualand's long-term strategy.
“We’ve been speaking with John for a number of months because we truly believe he is one of the few in the industry with such a high level of leadership and ingenuity.
"This is a result of a very controlled strategy that has allowed us to meet our milestones to trigger our next growth stage. 
“While John will transition into our CEO, I will transition to Group Managing Director," Lin said.
"Already Aqualand has grown a significant portfolio of sites, recycling assets to improve future investment opportunities and we are now on the verge of a new frontier with a significant appetite for large-scale, masterplanned projects.
"John has delivered numerous masterplanned communities throughout Australia and internationally, and I believe with him at the helm, Aqualand is well-positioned to increase its market dominance.”
 
Carfi has held senior positions across industry organisations including Australian Chairman of the global property association Urban Land Institute (ULI), Member of The Urban Taskforce Executive Committee, Fellow of the Australian Property Institute and Director of the Australian Residential Development Council. 
He has a Bachelor of Applied Science (Building) degree from the University of Technology Sydney, along with business related qualifications from INSEAD and Chicago University.
 
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John Carfi takes top job at Aqualand

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John Flavell, chief executive officer at Mortgage Choice Limited, has stepped down from his role immediately after the appointment of Susan Mitchell as the new CEO.
Susan Mitchell was most recently chief financial officer.  John Flavell has been there for just over the past three years. Mortgage Choice Chairman, Vicki Allen thanked John for his leadership and efforts at Mortgage Choice during his tenure as CEO, "and wish him well in his future endeavors”. Ms Mitchell’s extensive experience and existing senior role within the Company meant she was very well placed to step into the CEO position. Ms Allen said she was delighted Susan has reconsidered her recently announced intention to pursue another opportunity and instead lead our business. 
"The Board has confidence that she has the necessary skills to lead Mortgage Choice. 
"She is a very talented executive and her in-depth experience with the company will ensure a smooth transition of leadership."
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Mortgage Choice CEO John Flavell steps down

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Former Simeon Manners agent Scott Thornton and wife Jade have joined The Agency.
Scott Thornton, a 20 year veteran, left the Simeon Manners franchise where he was briefly a partner according to his LinkedIn profile.
He was previously at McGrath and LJ Hooker.
He said he is looking for to being part of the company as real estate and technology grows.
“We are in such an interesting time, we are evolving as a city, as a landscape and as an industry," Scott said.
"I think we are going through huge change and that’s exciting. To be a part of a company that is connected in understanding that change, means we can service our clients in the best possible way."
The Agency's CEO Matt Lahood said he is looking forward to working with the couple. 
“Scott and Jade are immensely talented and we are so excited to have them on the team, they are also very well known and respected in their local area.”
National sales director Thomas McGlynn says that in the new age of real estate, agents require a broad skill set and an innovative approach which is what he see's in Scott.
 
 
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Scott Thornton moves to The Agency

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The Agency has entered Sydney's Northern Beaches with agents David Rothschild and Lincoln McCarthy.
"David’s market knowledge in the broader Seaforth area is unparalleled and in my view, he is one of the most experienced negotiators in Sydney,” says Matt Lahood, The Agency’s CEO.
“And when it comes to Lincoln McCarthy, well he is one of the future ‘super stars’ of real estate in my opinion.”
David Rothschild has specialised in the premium property market across Seaforth, Clontarf, Balgowlah Heights, Balgowlah, North Balgowlah, Fairlight and Manly, having transacted over $750 million in local residential sales. 
“The Agency’s innovative systems, and new approach to selling and listing real estate, translate into real value for the client by removing unnecessary red tape,” he suggests.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/1/23/David.jpg" alt=""> Lincoln McCarthy has achieved results across the Northern Beaches setting multiple block, street and suburb records.
“We believe the uniqueness of The Agency offering is locked into its own motto, ‘people sell houses not companies or brands’, linking agent and client by creating a platform that is not an obstruction,” David Rothschild says.
 
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