Joel Robinson

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

<main data-perf-region="main">
Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Auctions

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More than 80 local tradies and building suppliers, directed by Shoalhaven’s G.J. Gardner Homes, have got together to build a house in Bomaderry, which will be auctioned to raise money for Variety, the children’s charity.
The first open house will be this Saturday from 10am to 2pm, at 9 Banool Circuit, Bomaderry, New South Wales. It will also be open for inspection on 10 and 17 May.
It will go for auction on Saturday 24th May.
The four-bedroom house has an open plan style with mountain views. The master bedroom has an ensuite and built-in robes, and the house includes ducted air conditioning, an integrated sound system, undercover decked alfresco area and a 5.5 star energy rating.
The block of land was given to Variety at a significant discount by the McDonald Family, with construction on the house beginning on 1 November 2013.
Integrity Real Estate are taking the property to auction. The proceeds will go to Variety’s Freedom program, which specifically looks to help children in need with their mobility and communication.
G. J. Gardner Homes Shoalhaven director Nathan Fay said that it is conveniently located near Nowra town centre, and is an opportunity for a family to experience country living.
“It is located in the elite Meroo Views Estate and has stunning panoramic views across beautiful rural surrounds,” said Fay.
Peter Hebbes, chairman for Variety, said that it has been a heartwarming experience.
“The proceeds of this auction will make a huge difference to the lives of many children in need,” Hebbes said.
Suppliers that got behind the project included: Smeg, James Hardie, Phil Jones Insulation Specialist, Humes Doors, Daikin, Gainsborough, HPM, JB Air Conditioning, Rheem, B&amp;D garage doors, Kiteleys, GJ NSW, GJ Corporate, South Coast Drafting, Efficiency Assessments, Bradnams Windows, Taubmans, Harvey Norman Commercial, Smart Film Termite Protection, Leslie &amp; Thompson Surveyors and Smith &amp; Sons.
For those elsewhere in New South Wales, G. J. Gardner Homes is looking to turn this into a state-wide program and to enlist one of their franchisees in NSW or ACT per year to repeat the process to help build Variety donations. Next year, a Tamworth office will take on the project.
The hopes are for over $1 million to be raised for Variety.
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Bomaderry house auction to raise money for children’s charity Variety

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The year-to-date Melbourne wide auction clearance rate is 71%, but many suburbs are recording weak auction results.
Property Observer lists 10 of the weakest suburbs with 20 plus auction offerings so far this year.
<ul>
<li>
<a href="/news">Dandenong</a> 36 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Frankston </a>26 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Mt Eliza</a> 20 offerings 50% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Rye</a> 46 offerings 48% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">St Albans</a> 32 offerings 46% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Dandenong North</a> 31 offerings 45% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Maribyrnong</a> 55 offerings 40% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Portsea</a> 25 offering 36% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">Greenvale</a> 20 offerings 30% sold 
</li>
<li>
<a href="/news">South Morang</a> 21 offerings 28% sold
</li>
</ul>
Source: <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/en/Property-Research/Auctions/Clearance-rates" target="_blank">REIV</a>
It is not to say that auctions don't work as <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/penola-drive-south-morang/Property-Details-sold-residential-6600915" target="_blank">a seven year old South Morang house</a> (pictured above) was snapped up ahead of last weekend's auction. 
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/32-skyline-drive-south-morang/Property-Details-buy-residential-6656905" target="_blank">In May $410,000 plus buyers</a> are being sought for a four bedroom two bathroom house on Skyline Drive.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne's 10 weakest auction suburbs reveals tepid South Morang auction buyers

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On the back of low auction volumes, the preliminary auction clearance rate fell to the lowest reading so far this year.
Because of the ANZAC day long weekend, for the second week in a row, auction volumes across the combined capital cities were low. A total of 859 auctions were held across the capital cities, compared to 642 the previous week and the preliminary auction clearance rate fell from 65.5%t the previous week to 64.0% last week.
This is the lowest clearance rate seen so far this year and the lowest clearance rate since June last year. Volumes are expected to ramp up again over the coming week, with RP Data expecting 1,927 auctions to be held across the capital cities.
Much like last week, because auction volumes were much lower than usual, we will just provide some key stats to give a wrap up of the auction markets over the week:
<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3161" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140427-Capital-city.jpg" alt="20140427 Capital city" width="983" height="364">
<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3164" src="https://blog.rpdata.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/20140427-City-by-city-table1.jpg" alt="20140427 City-by-city table" width="845" height="249">
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Anzac Day weekend slowest of the year so far: RP Data's national auction market wrap

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There are 349 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne. Whilst higher than last weekend volumes are lower than usual due to Anzac Day.
RP Data captured 43 auction results across Melbourne last week with 25 successful sales recorded; however, due to the very low volume a clearance rate would not be statistically reliable.
The number of active buyers and sellers is clearly higher than it was over the past three years. However, as <a href="/expert-insights/investing/first-home-buyers-in-victoria-lowest-in-23-years">first home buyers are at record lows</a> the improved demand is coming from other segments.
Data shows that there are a proportionally higher numbers of upgraders and investors that was the case in the last rising market in 2009.
This highlights a fundamental difference to the last few cycles in the market as not only is this one shallower so far but there is a different mix of buyers.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 20 April: NA due to low volumes 
</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 27 April: 349 
</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 20 April: 33 days (houses) 
</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 20 April: -5.6% (houses) 
</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 19.4 per cent higher in month ending 20 April (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
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Property cycle now shallower with different buyer mix: RP Data's Melbourne auction preview

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Eight vacant waterfront building blocks at Paynesville were sold at weekend mortgagee auction.
Under instructions from Gippsland Secured Investments Ltd, <a href="https://www.castran.com.au/index.cfm?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2618010" target="_blank">the Driftwood Close properties</a> (pictured above) sold through John Castran at John H Castran. Three sold at undisclosed pre-auction prices, with the five under the hammer selling for between $230,000 and $308,000.  
There was an earlier mortgagee auction in January in the holiday town which attracted strong interest from Melbourne buyers which was tipped to spark a local building boom.
The holdings, about three hours drive from Melbourne, were part of Riviera Properties, which was placed in voluntary administration in September last year after principal lender Gippsland Secured Investments collapsed.
GSI had about $150 million under management and 3,500 investors, many of them from the eastern Victorian locality.   
There was a $517,500 sale at Rye when 57 Bimbiang Crescent sold through Craig Evans at Hockingstuart Blairgowrie. It previously traded at $580,000 in 2010 with the property recently been connected to the sewerage system.
Set a short walk to the Tyrone foreshore safe sandy beach, the elevated three bedroom, two storey beach house was on a 1,169 square metre block. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+martha-116494971" target="_blank">There was a $1.32 million sale at Mount Martha of a contemporary home</a> (pictured below) through McEwing Partners.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/mount%20martha%20april%2022%20one.jpg" alt="">
At Ocean Grove a three bedroom house on an 816 square metre Epworth Street block fetched $515,000 through RT Edgar. It had last sold about three decades ago for around $40,000.
There was a $3.5 million vendor bid when the landmark Point Lonsdale cottage, Samarai went to weekend Easter auction.
The Ramsay family's Edwardian home (pictured below) is set on 1,100 square metres, last sold in the mid-1980s when bought from the Wortley's for around $240,000. 
It's been offered <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/149-point-lonsdale-road-point-lonsdale/Property-Details-buy-residential-6827429" target="_blank">through Damian Cayzer at Kerleys Coastal Real Estate</a> who expected $3.5 million plus for the 149 Point Lonsdale Road offering with easterly view.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/point%20lonsdale%20april%2022%20pne.jpg" alt="">
The 60 Frimmell Way, Portsea offering - marketed as an affordable charming cottage style offering through Little Residential - was passed in at $725,000.
Looking like a mountain hut, <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/31-seaview-street-blairgowrie/Property-Details-sold-residential-6820083" target="_blank">31 Seaview Street, Blairgowrie</a> (pictured below) fetched $502,500 through Hockingstuart Blairgowrie agent Michael Christodoulou. The four-bedroom timber home is spread over three levels on its 766 square metre block.
<img src="/images/2014/04/22/blairgowrie%20april%2022%20opne.jpg" alt="">
Sales were not just on the coast.
At Dinner Plains in the mountains, the<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-5-burrinjuck-lane-dinner-plain/Property-Details-buy-residential-6849967" target="_blank"> mortgagee auction of a three level three bedroom two bathroom townhouse</a> (pictured below) secured $231,500.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dinner%20plain%20april%2017.jpg" alt="">
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Paynesville leads Victorian Easter weekend coastal auctions with eight sales 

<html><body>
Cronulla Sharks coach Shane Flanagan has listed his longtime Bangor home having spent $2.3 million on a contemporary five-bedroom house in Caringbah South.
It has been listed for 30 April auction <a href="https://raywhitemenai.com.au/nsw/bangor/1122210/" target="_blank">through Ray White Menai agent Matt Debreczen</a> who expects about $1 million.
The two level 1980s built house was bought for $330,000 in 1994 with wife, Cathie.
<a href="/news/cronulla-sharks-coach-shane-flanagan-spends-2-3-million-in-caringbah-south">His next architecturally designed property</a> overlooking Burraneer Bay was recently sold through John Schwarzer, of Highland Property Agents.
Flanagan, who also signed on with the club last month for another three years, has been suspended by the NRL following the ASADA investigation for its part in the 2011 supplements scandal.
Flanagan took over the lead coaching role from Ricky Stuart, who after quitting the Parramatta Eels is now with the Canberra Raiders.
The former plumber, Flanagan, a Sutherland Shire resident for the past 29 years, had been Stuart's right-hand man for six years previously at the Roosters and the Sharks.
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Cronulla Sharks coach Shane Flanagan auctioning longtime Bangor house

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There are 49 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne; the total volume of auctions is affected by the upcoming Easter and Anzac Day public holidays.
The lower volume of auctions does not reflect the broader level of supply with overall volumes continuing to rise. The high level of supply is having an impact on prices with a slight depreciation being recorded so far this month in the Melbourne Home Price Index.
The key issue for the Melbourne property market after Anzac Day will be the supply of homes. The RP Data Mortgage market activity shows that so far, the number of buyers has risen to match the higher levels of supply with mortgage activity events higher than a month ago in Victoria. As activity is generally reduced over winter the high level of supply will be a challenge for the market.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 13 April: 64.4% 
</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 20 April: 49 
</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 13 April: 34 days (houses) 
</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 13 April: -5.6% (houses) 
</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 3.5% higher in month ending 13 April</li>
</ul>
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Key issue for post-Easter will be supply:  RP Data's Melbourne auction preview

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According to the latest RP Data-Rismark Home Value Index Results, Melbourne dwellings sold for a median price of $515,000 for 2014’s March quarter.
Melbourne's median dwelling price has increased 11.6% increase year on year, the second biggest yearly increase after 15.6% growth in Sydney median dwelling price.
Property Observer looks at five Melbourne homes that recently sold around the median $515,000 mark.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-fitzroy+north-107254529" target="_blank">41/9-19 Miller Street, Fitzroy North</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/image3.jpg" width="456" height="342">
An apartment (pictured above) in Fitzroy North’s Miller Park complex sold for $510,000 on 9 April. The two bedroom first floor unit opens onto secure communal gardens and is situated just off Nicholson Street. This property sold below March’s median unit price for <a href="/news">Fitzroy</a>, which was $671,000 according to RPData.
<ul>
<li>Price: $510,000</li>
<li>Rooms: Two</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 10 minutes</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20north%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20north%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20north%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
 <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-116400331" target="_blank">170 Spring Street, Reservoir</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/image2%201.jpg" width="460" height="345">
This three bedroom home in Melbourne’s northern suburbs sold at $510,000 earlier this week. Another one sold on the back of its development potential, the weatherboard sits on a 585 square metre plot within walking distance of <a href="/news">Reservoir</a> train station and the Preston market. It was purchased by the vendors in 2006 for $258,000, almost doubling in value over eight years.
<ul>
<li>Price: $510,000</li>
<li>Rooms: Three</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 18 minutes</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/reservoir%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/reservoir%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-southbank-116430995" target="_blank">6/100 Dodds Street, Southbank</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/image2.jpg" width="460" height="345">
This two bedroom unit (pictured above) sold for $511,000 this past weekend. The apartment in a low-rise complex has an open plan living area and is located near Melbourne’s Botanical Gardens. Though selling below <a href="/news">Southbank</a>’s March median price of $566,000, the property’s value almost doubled over the past 11 years. The vendors purchased the Dodd Street apartment for $265,000 in 2003.
<ul>
<li>Price: $511,000</li>
<li>Rooms: Two</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: Six minutes</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/southbank%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/southbank%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/southbank%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-altona+north-116006059" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">26 First Avenue, Altona North</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/main%203.jpg" width="460" height="345">
A new build in Melbourne’s south west, this three bedroom, two bathroom home (pictured above) sold for $525,000 on Monday. Bedrooms are carpeted while living areas feature hardwood flooring. The brick house with a courtyard and garage sold above the March median for houses in <a href="/news">Altona North</a>, which sat at $507,000.
<ul>
<li>Price: $525,000</li>
<li>Rooms: Three</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 17 minutes</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/altona%20north%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/altona%20north%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/altona%20north%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-watsonia+north-116392011" target="_blank">12 Busst Drive, Watsonia North</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/main%204.jpg" width="460" height="345">
Situated 17 kilometres north-east of the Melbourne CBD, this <a href="/news">Watsonia North</a> home (pictured above) sold for $515,500 this past weekend. The three bedroom house with front and backyards is situated on a corner plot, with the selling agent suggesting the possibility of further development subject to council approval. The home was last advertised to tenants at $380 per week in February, putting rental yield at 3.84%.
<ul>
<li>Price: $515,000</li>
<li>Rooms: Three</li>
<li>Drive to CBD: 27 minutes</li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/watsonia%20north%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/watsonia%20north%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/watsonia%20north%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
Photo of Melbourne courtesy of Vincent Q/flickr.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

What Melbourne's median house price really gets you

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If you've ever wanted to buy a haunted island then you're in luck. Poveglia is up for sale.
{qtube vid:=URbvSD0QdnA}
Possibly the only place near Venice that nobody wants to go to, the uninhabited Italian island has been put up for sale to help reduce the country’s public debt, according the the UK’s The Independent.
It was a quarantine station in the 18th century before apparently becoming a ‘dumping ground’ for plague victims, including children, and the 17-acre island was then home to a mental hospital where the doctor apparently undertook horrible surgeries, such as lobotomies, with hand drills, on the patients. Combining these aspects together, with current rumours that it’s now haunted, and you have the topic for one of the most nail-bitingly creepy films of all time.
That doctor then threw himself off the tallest tower. That hospital only closed in the late-1960s.
As they say, one man’s trash, another man’s treasure. Where some Property Observer readers will see “Personal Worst Nightmare” our property opportunists may instead consider it a “Private Island Holiday Destination”.
The Telegraph reports that the plan is to transform the building into a luxury hotel, however a campaign has been launched to stop privatisation of the lagoon. We imagine that creepy child plague-ghosts, one by the name of Little Maria, aren’t among the resort’s plans, but we could be wrong.
Closed to visitors in recent years by the Italian government, in what could be seen as a conspiracy against the worldwide findings-out of the devils beyond but is likely just a safety protocol, it has attracted paranormal investigators in the past.
If you’re in the market to buy a creepy island, then this is the perfect option. Bids for Poveglia close 6 May 2014.
The Daily Mail explains that a 99 year lease is in the offering for its redevelopment, but that a further four properties, including 15th Century castle and monastery, will be auctioned off freehold. Around 150 state-owned properties will go under the hammer with hopes of netting a 500 million euro total.
Australians can bid <a href="https://venditaimmobili.agenziademanio.it/AsteDemanio_FE/index.php/benioffertalibera/index" target="_blank">in the virtual auction</a>.
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Poveglia, haunted Venetian island up for sale, with hotel plans

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This weekend even the most hardened property investor will get the opportunity to take a well-earned break from the Super Saturday action.
While some choose to enjoy the Easter long weekend with some hot cross buns and a good book, others are after some more active (and sweet) fare. Property Observer has tracked down four properties perfect for a good old fashioned Easter egg hunt.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-nsw-kangaloon-7517167" target="_blank">Kangaloon, NSW </a>
 <img src="/images/2014/04/17/image12.jpg" width="460" height="345">
This Kangaloon country estate has plenty of room for a roving egg hunt – 111 acres, to be precise. The main house offers six bedrooms in which to plant chocolates, while the garage, stable complex, barn machinery shed, stockyards, dressage arena and three bedroom studio will provide lots of good hiding spots.
But best of all are the tree lined garden paths, pictured above – perfect for traipsing along with a basket full of Easter eggs.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-vic-flinders-115045263" target="_blank">217 Gwenmarlin Road, Flinders, Vic</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/main%201.jpg" width="460" height="345">
Where better to host a hunt than a good old fashioned castle? This granite rock and bluestone residence (pictured above) is located down the end of a country lane in the historic town of Flinders. Property Observer thinks this Scottish castle would be best explored by candlelight for the full experience, though that might take things from Easter excitement to haunted house.
If one was to take the hunt outside, there are 50 acres of land to explore. But make sure you get to the chocolates before the local mob of Eastern Grey Kangaroos get to it (or old Daisy, the resident cow).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi+rural-nsw-sutton+forest-105088598" target="_blank">Sutton Forest, NSW</a> 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/main%202.jpg" width="460" height="345">
Another grand old country estate, this residence set on 15 acres offers plenty of opportunities to squirrel away Easter eggs. The five bedroom suites, two dressing rooms, two studies, library and conservatory offer ample hiding space. Earlier this week, <a href="/news/malaysian-tycoon-teo-ah-khing-from-china-horse-club-snaps-up-historic-the-chase-at-sutton-forest">Malaysian racing tycoon Teo Ah Khing</a> was revealed to be the new owner of another historic Sutton Forest estate, The Chase.
The landscaped garden, with a fountain and two grand old lion statues of this property are perfect for tucking away some chocolates. But with a tennis court, pool pavilion, games room, triple garage, separate kitchen and an additional two storey house for guest accommodation, Property Observer guesses that the discovery of stray Easter eggs would continue til November.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-taroona-112393283" target="_blank">55 Channel Highway,Taroona, Tasmania</a>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/image11.jpg" width="460" height="345">
Winmarleigh, the 1893 heritage estate in Tasmania’s Taroona, offers as much for the grown-ups as for the kids. The sandstone home, which has been the site of many a function, is on the market for the first time since its 1939 purchase by the late judge Sir John Demetrius.
While Winmarleigh has plenty of Easter egg hidey-holes in its five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a formal dining hall and eight original fireplaces, it’s the home’s study and library, pictured above, that offers the prime confectionery hiding spots. With bookshelves that extend to the ceiling, accessible only via ladder, this indeed might be one for the adults – 80% cacao dark chocolate eggs, please.
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