Investor appetite for Queenstown apartments is strengthening as supply constraints and four-season tourism continue to underpin demand across the alpine region.

In Frankton’s masterplanned Remarkables Park precinct,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>’s 141-apartment Mountain Oak development is attracting repeat and yield-focused buyers seeking exposure to that market dynamic.

Brandon, who specifically targeted Queenstown as an investment location, said the combination of price point and limited new supply made Mountain Oak stand out.

“It is a quality product in a location that struggles to densify,” he said, referencing Queenstown’s land-locked geography and development limitations.

<img alt="From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/658d4f_48c3ec1ae5df4a2cab7d23c07c7f51b3~mv2.jpg?VersionId=27K8oQ4ExDN8Yu70VHDa9Olq59XU36m3" />

Having spent significant time in the region, Brandon pointed to its global reputation and consistent visitation as key fundamentals.

“Queenstown is a known destination from people all over the world. The place is land locked and there are issues building there. It’s also busy all year round.”

That four-season economy, driven by skiing and snowboarding in winter and hiking, cycling and water-based tourism in summer, was also central to Sherry’s decision to invest.

“I believe the four-season tourism has major appeal as it would ensure that the property will not remain empty, unlike other areas in NZ,” she said.

<img alt="From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Living_WEB.jpg?VersionId=3LglY20Jp_MAzQYdvwODRWvtjL.cZcqI" />

Mountain Oak has been structured to respond to that sustained demand, with 365-day visitor accommodation consent underpinning a mix of one-bedroom, flexi, two-bedroom and dual-key configurations that can operate as either short-term visitor accommodation or long-term rental housing. Dual-key apartments comprise two self-contained residences on one title, allowing owners to generate dual income streams or occupy one side while leasing the other.&nbsp;

Under Safari Group’s optional visitor accommodation management model, owners receive 60 per cent of the annual income generated by their apartment, with 24/7 on-site management, guest services and listing exposure included. Independent appraisal modelling suggests gross yields of up to 15 per cent for certain two-bedroom configurations, based on estimated nightly rates and occupancy assumptions.

For Brandon, that flexibility aligned with his broader investment strategy.

“It helps to know that I can have it managed either way,” he said. “My focus is on purchasing high yield cashflow properties.”

<img alt="Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c786ba7f-f974-4ce3-9833-1bcd9f2938d6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/658d4f_ae3c049f388f4c13bf801649d91cbb4a~mv2%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=J25uvzGdvtFaXGzuwz28ewJ9wWzbtvur" />

He selected a one-bedroom flexi configuration, citing both yield and adaptability.

“I work remotely and can travel to most places and work. I enjoy making spaces that work for the lifestyle that I live and it seems that others also enjoy it.”

Ranging from 54 to 57 square metres, the one-bedroom flexi incorporates a separate multipurpose room suited to a home office, additional storage, or accommodation for ski gear and seasonal equipment, an increasingly relevant inclusion for buyers balancing remote work and alpine travel.

Interiors feature underfloor heating in bathrooms and a heat pump in the main living area, supporting year-round comfort. Upper-level apartments are positioned to maximise natural light, with sliding windows and balustrades in select residences enhancing outlook and ventilation. Units are available in both light and dark interior schemes.

<img alt="Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8f9492e9-8ee0-4aae-856c-8996ed9d9a06" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/658d4f_7d066f5200024c1aa472d01e2dc776ed~mv2.jpg?VersionId=MLR5xn6fLqPdBi7vxyRT.1zhQX3Ln0Ev" />

Sherry, a repeat Safari Group buyer, said her previous experience with the developer provided confidence to secure another apartment.

“Their developments have always finished on time, the quality has been high, and I didn't feel that my investment may be at risk,” she said. “Knowledge of the developer and our two existing Safari apartments gave us the confidence to proceed with this one.”

Safari Group has delivered more than 2,000 hotel units and residential apartments nationally and is now undertaking its fifth Queenstown development, reinforcing buyer confidence in delivery capability.

Although Sherry was not initially targeting Queenstown due to its price profile, prior visits reshaped her view of the market.

“I absolutely love this region and believe it is a major tourist attraction, which led me to the decision to invest.”

<img alt="How Mountain Oak Apartments draws holiday home buyers to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Construction commenced in June 2025, with completion anticipated by mid-2027. Apartments are priced from NZ$639,000, and the development carries Overseas Investment Office exemption approval, allowing non-residents to purchase.

For both investors, the purchase represents a balance of income generation and long-term portfolio positioning in a tightly held alpine market.

“I firmly believe my investments in Safari developments are a combination of all these elements,” Sherry said. “The location of this project enabled me to diversify.”

As Queenstown continues to attract year-round visitation alongside constrained housing supply, Mountain Oak’s dual-key flexibility, optional on-site management structure and established developer track record are resonating with investors seeking exposure to the region’s resilient tourism economy.

Joel Robinson

Investors back Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments as Queenstown’s four-season economy drives demand

The Minns Labor Government is today unveiling a game-changing new precinct at Bays West – delivering up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes - directly above the new Bays West Metro Station currently under construction.

The landmark transformation will convert underutilised government-owned port land on the Harbour into Sydney’s newest suburb, while retaining important deep-water port facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

<img alt="Bays West" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f01d10-0b6b-49de-8033-d3ef2728cb6d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.06.12%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=UA6_r._1jYROJ5tFNXMHqjNYLKYWIN.Y" />

Affordable housing will be embedded from the outset, including dedicated homes for essential workers such as nurses, teachers, paramedics, firefighters and police so they can live closer to the communities they serve.

The precinct will combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years.

Night-time entertainment and creative industries will be anchored by the revitalisation of the historic White Bay Power Station as a cultural and community destination, connected to the harbour across a new expansive public forecourt.

Planning of the area will prioritise connectivity, including active transport links to neighbouring communities such as Rozelle, Balmain and Glebe, improved pedestrian access to the waterfront, and connections to the CBD, including an active transport link across the Glebe Island Bridge.

The Government will lead a master planning process that will include an international design competition to guide development across the precinct, ensuring homes, essential infrastructure, jobs, public spaces and transport links are delivered together.

It will be led by a new delivery agency to be established over the coming weeks, which will report to Minister Kamper who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo. Once established, the publicly owned land in the precinct will be transferred to the new agency.

This is the first new suburb that has been built in inner Sydney in decades, it will see homes built alongside the Bays West Metro Station ensuring young people, families and downsizers are only minutes away from the CBD. As part of the transformation of the Bays West precinct, bulk port operations – including cement, gypsum and sugar handling – will cease on Glebe Island by no later than 2030.

<img alt="Glebe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46ef3c23-2ce1-4912-b8ba-5247de19d7b9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.02.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=I5xKa7hLNlsueMsltA2dsYrRYtZCKvZz" />

The Government will work closely with industry to minimise impacts and ensure the continuity of supply. This includes a commitment of $270 million to improve road connections around the port at Port Kembla and to investigate increased rail freight capacity.

Working harbour operations across the precinct will be consolidated, mostly into White Bay, ensuring the precinct will continue to provide critical services for the harbour, including boat maintenance and marine construction and as a base for tug boats and for emergency services.

A new staging area will be established in White Bay, securing the future of the New Year’s Eve fireworks, Vivid and other major events for decades to come.

<img alt="Glebe island" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0554b153-b225-445b-a633-75aecea7dec9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-04%20at%204.06.17%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=P45ABy8KLuwjzVf04APWfeC4aOMA1Ngx" />

The cruise terminal will be retained in its current location, meaning tourists arriving in Sydney will be welcomed by the new precinct, with new shore-power facilities currently being installed that will reduce noise and emissions. The Sydney Heritage Fleet will also be offered new premises in White Bay.

Deep-water berths will be retained to preserve Sydney Harbour’s strategic operational capability, and the removal of the existing 1970s industrial silos, currently used as a billboard, as well as to store cement and sugar, will unlock new opportunities for public space and future housing.

“Right above a new metro station and minutes from the CBD, we’re delivering thousands of homes where people actually need them - close to work, close to services and close to transport,"&nbsp;Premier of New South Wales Chris Minns said.

“Importantly, this precinct will include affordable and essential worker housing from day one, so nurses, teachers, paramedics and police can live closer to the communities they serve.

“We understand that not everyone will welcome change, but cities don’t stand still. If Sydney is going to remain a place young people and families can afford to live in, we have to use well-located land better and plan for the future.”

Glebe Island to accomodate 8,500 new homes near new Bays Metro Station

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a> has unveiled its exclusive penthouse collection at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Amargo</a>, its new apartment development in Palm Beach.

There are just four penthouses as part of the collection, however only three remain for sale, with a Palm Beach local already snapping up one of the apartments prior to its launch.

&nbsp;

“We are thrilled to unveil the debut penthouses within the Flourish story,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa Group.

“The penthouses epitomise unparalleled luxury and contemporary elegance, offering an exclusive experience in modern living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=362273]

Located at 6-12 Sixth Avenue, the penthouses will crown Amargo, which will rise 18 levels and offer a diverse product mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, attracting a wide demographic of buyers.&nbsp;

“Creating a multigenerational community is core for us at Sherpa," Leet added.

"Amargo embodies this ethos, welcoming first-home buyers, families and right-sizers alike – ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=362271]

The penthouses, which range in price from just over $3 million to $4.6 million, each have three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and extensive balconies. Select penthouses will have&nbsp;dedicated media rooms. They have four-metre-high ceilings, Gaggenau appliances, and natural stone materials.

Flourish is crowned by an&nbsp;800 sqm rooftop retreat with a&nbsp;pool, pool deck cabanas and day beds, private outdoor barbecues and pizza oven, an internal private dining space, as well as a gym, yoga zones, steam rooms, and hot and cold magnesium pools.

&nbsp;

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=306037]

“We’re really excited about what we’re delivering here- Flourish is more than just apartments; it’s about creating a place where people feel truly at home,” Leet said.

Construction is already well underway on Amargo, with residents expected to move in by Q2 2027. The project is around 85 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146527]

A first look inside Flourish penthouse collection at Palm Beach

Builder-developer Urban Property Group (UPG) is continuing to expand into new markets. UPG is heading to the Hills District, where it is planning a 40-storey mixed use building near Castle Hill Metro Station.

They've gone down the favoured developer route of a State Significant Development Application, which should see developments approved within the space of nine months.

The tower will comprise 371 apartments, 42 of which will be affordable housing, above a ground-floor retail precinct at 16-20 Old Castle Hill Road, on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and within walking distance of Castle Hill Metro Station, an area identified for higher density under both local and state strategic planning frameworks.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc">Studio SC</a>, the tower would rise from a brick podium base, accommodating one retail tenancy and communal open space, before transitioning to a slender glazed residential form above. Six basement levels are proposed beneath the building to house parking and services.

<img alt="First Look: Urban Property unveils 40-storey mixed-use tower in Castle Hill with 371 homes and affordable housing component" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08dc82f9-b826-4e18-8c60-4c90f7472317" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%20G%20%28b%29%20-%20Ground%20level%20render.jpg?VersionId=EOv1ly45k_Bc1F73C0hdwXSG4FVSTETt" />

“Castle Hill is undergoing a significant transformation, evolving from a traditionally low-rise suburban centre into a true metropolitan destination anchored by the Sydney Metro Northwest," the Architectural Design Report prepared by Studio SC noted.

The majority of apartments (194) will be two-bedrooms. 90 one-bedroom apartments are planned, 83 three-beds, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Studio SC’s design adopts a podium-and-tower composition, with warm-toned masonry at the lower levels intended to anchor the building within its streetscape context.

"At the podium, the architecture is anchored through solid brickwork in warm, earthy tones, reflecting the local sandstone formations and the natural colour palette of the surrounding hills," Studio SC added.

Above, the tower transitions to a lighter glass expression, articulated with fins and tonal variation to reduce visual bulk and respond to changing light conditions.

<img alt="First Look: Urban Property unveils 40-storey mixed-use tower in Castle Hill with 371 homes and affordable housing component" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f13cb2ee-ebfc-4204-9aba-e2dbd9e5d4bd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Appendix%20G%20%28a%29%20-%20Pool%20view.jpg?VersionId=Dnpusa.b5d6Nkx2clPlzWosDdh_1QW2V" />

Urban Property Group is one of Sydney's most active developers. They have projects currently under construction in Little Bay, Penrith, and Macquarie Park, with future projects earmarked for Wollongong.

Castle Hill has been one of the most popular suburbs for development across Sydney in the last five years, as developers scramble for land around the newly extended Sydney Metro.&nbsp;

Kassis Homes kicked it all off with Grand Reve, along with Deicorp who has delivered over 1,000 apartments in the area and continues to develop. The likes of Dubai-backed developer Arada will take to market their project in the coming months, while Masscon has just launched Avenue on Cadman Crescent.

First Look: Urban Property Group unveils 40-storey mixed-use tower in Castle Hill

One of the Gold Coast’s ‘bridesmaid suburbs’ is experiencing a wave of local suitors, with the latest sales figures from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> revealing over two thirds of buyers will be relocating from within a 5km average radius of the 16-hectare masterplan.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lewis-land-group">Lewis Land</a> Head of Development Michael Long said the figures underlined a powerful shift for Biggera Waters that would reshape it into a thriving force behind the region’s growth corridor.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen a huge wave of interest from residents of Arundel, Paradise Point and Runaway Bay who recognise the urban transformation that is well underway here and want to be part of it,” Long said.&nbsp;

“Interestingly, 25 per cent of our Gold Coast buyers are also coming from the city’s southern hotspots, including Burleigh and Palm Beach.&nbsp;

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/biggera-waters-qld-4216">Biggera Waters</a>, and Harbour Shores in particular, has all the advantages of waterfront living with the benefits of resort-style amenity, for greater value than the southern beachfront suburbs.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=290031]

Long said half of the purchasers at Harbour Shores were under the age of 55.&nbsp;

“When locals choose to stay local, it creates a genuine community, turning the most sustainable master planned community in the Gold Coast’s history into a diverse and vibrant ‘village of villages’.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=336743]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Gold Coast Sales Director David Higgins said the hyper-local market demand was unique to Harbour Shores when compared to other projects in the region.&nbsp;

“We are seeing as much as 60 per cent of new apartment sales on other projects go to interstate or international buyers, but Harbour Shores is bucking this trend and attracting a larger proportion of the local market,” Higgins said.&nbsp;

“Only 13 per cent of Harbour Shores’ existing purchasers are interstate. There has been a resounding endorsement from local buyers and that validates the project’s vision and investment in design, lifestyle and liveability.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=4579]

Harbour Shores is 16ha visionary masterplan dedicated to wellness and an active, healthy lifestyle. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, Harbour Shores embeds extensive green connections and more than 2.5km in pedestrian networks – including a 1.2km boardwalk along the water’s edge.

Harbour Shores was recently recognised by the BETTER FUTURE World Design Awards 2026 as a silver winner in the category of environmental sustainability. Boasting a 6 Star Green Star Communities V1.1 rating, Harbour Shores will deliver more than 2,000 homes over the next ten years.&nbsp;

The first stage will deliver three residential collections including luxury three and four-bedroom waterfront villas at The Residences, as well as apartments in The Waterline and Palm House, surrounded by resort-style amenities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Biggera Waters no longer a 'bridesmaid suburb' as Gold Coast locals jump to Harbour Shores

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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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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