An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

Australian Capital Territory

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The fund manager Placer Property Group have bought the NewActon East building in Canberra, home to the head office of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Placer is seeking to raise $26.5 million in equity from self-managed super funds and individual investors for the unlisted property fund.
It offers investors an initial return of 7.75% paid quarterly.
The <a href="https://www.placerproperty.com.au/fund_newacton_east" target="_blank">NewActon East Property Fund</a> is a single-asset syndicate which will run for approximately seven years.
The fund’s only asset will be the commercial component of 21-23 Marcus Clarke Street, an ‘A’-grade, mixed-use building in the NewActon precinct on the fringe of the Canberra CBD. 
It was constructed in 2007 as an eight-storey, mixed-use office, retail and residential development. The fund has only acquired the building’s office and retail components (five storeys plus 115 car parking spaces) – the remaining three storeys of apartments remain in separate hands. 
Purchasing the asset will require $45 million to $49 million, including costs. 
It is expected the asset to produce reliable income, based on: 
<ul>
<li>98.5% occupancy;</li>
<li>Contracted fixed rental increases of at least 3.35% per annum; </li>
<li>A WALE of 9.2 years (by income); and</li>
<li>
A credit-worthy major tenant – 79.8% of passing rent is secured by a lease to the ACCC until 2022, the year after the initial term expires. 
</li>
</ul>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

ACCC's Canberra head office bought by Placer Property fund

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Two waterfront development sites in Canberra’s Yarralumla Bay have sold for a combined $1.78 million to the neighbouring Canberra Girls Grammar School.
Located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, Block 15, Section 17 sold for $860,000 while Block 16, Section 17 sold for $920,000.
The two sites are three kilometres from Capital Hill and five kilometres from Canberra City.
JLL managing director for ACT Andrew Balzanelli and JLL head of investment sales for ACT Greg Lyons handled the Land Development Agency offerings.
There were six registered bidders.
The Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS) principal Anne Coutts said the acquisition presented an exciting phase in the development as the school moves towards its 90th anniversary in 2016.
Picture of Canberra Girls Grammar School courtesy of AY Arktos/<a class="mw-mmv-license cc-license" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5" target="_blank">CC BY-SA 2.5</a>.
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Canberra Girls Grammar School buys adjoining sites

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The ACT’s suburb rental yields for apartments range from as low as Deakin’s 2.75%, but where are the best performing?
Here are the top 10 gross rental yields, as recorded by RP Data, for unit suburbs across the ACT.
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg" alt="">Scullin</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 7.13%</li>
<li>Median price: $270,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg" width="32" height="31">Franklin</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 6.34%</li>
<li>Median price: $308,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg" width="31" height="32">City</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 6.08%</li>
<li>Median price: $428,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg" width="32" height="32">Curtin</a>
<ol>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.88%</li>
<li>Median price: $292,000</li>
</ol>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg" width="31" height="31">Ngunnawal</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.79%</li>
<li>Median price: $350,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg" width="34" height="33">Melba</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.67%</li>
<li>Median price: $330,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg" width="32" height="32">Theodore</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.57%</li>
<li>Median price: $362,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg" width="31" height="30">Banks</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.55%</li>
<li>Median price: $375,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" width="33" height="31">Isabella Plains</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.48%</li>
<li>Median price: $375,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" width="32" height="31">Florey</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.47%</li>
<li>Median price: $380,000</li>
</ul>
<a href="/news"><img src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg" width="32" height="31">Page</a>
<ul>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.47%</li>
<li>Median price: $380,000</li>
</ul>
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The ACT's top 10 yielding unit suburbs

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The ACT is a market that not every investor looks to tackle, with most heading to neighbouring New South Wales for strong performance.
However, while <a href="/expert-insights/investing/john-mcgrath-s-10-sydney-suburb-picks">Sydney did secure 10 places on industry expert John McGrath’s hotspot list</a>, Canberra took out three choices.
Property Observer decided to take a closer look at his three selections, the prominent statistics and the differences between the areas.
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">AINSLIE</a></li>
</ul>
McGrath calls north-east Canberra’s Ainslie a “strong reliable performer”. The large and tightly-held area caught his eye for a significant segment of the suburb that is elevated and able to capture city views, as well as that it backs onto bush reserve.
The reserve in question is Mt Majura Nature Reserve, which sits to the east of the suburb. It is further bound by Limestone Avenue and Majura Avenue to the west.
“It is walking distance to the city with wide leafy streets and vibrant village shops and cafes. Also has easy access to the employment hubs of Russell &amp; Barton,” he said.
Less than a 10 minute drive to the centre of Canberra, it appears that it could take around 40 minutes to walk.
The area includes a number of leafy reserves and open space areas, including Corroborree Park, Majura Oval and Ainslie Football Park, as well as trails through the reserve.
It has bus routes through the main local roads of Campbell Street, Ebden Street, Office Crescent and Cowper Street. The suburb includes an IGA supermarket at its centre, a laundrette, pharmacy, liquor store, and a few eateries. There is a local football and social club.
The 2011 Census put the area as containing 5,100 people, with a median age of 40. Of the dwellings, 82.8% are separate houses, with the majority including three bedrooms (49.2%), closely followed by three bedrooms and two bedrooms at 22.3% and 20.7% respectively. In total, 38.3% were recorded as renters.
Statistics to know
<ul>
<li>Vacancy rate: 2.3%</li>
</ul>
Source: SQM Research
Houses
<ul>
<li>Median price: $695,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $510</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 3.82%</li>
<li>12 month growth: 3.42%</li>
</ul>
Units
<ul>
<li>Median price: $717,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $550</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 3.99%</li>
<li>12 month growth: -5.35%</li>
</ul>
Source: RP Data
Other neighbouring suburbs: <a href="/news">Braddon</a>, <a href="/news">Dickson</a>, <a href="/news">Hackett</a>, <a href="/news">Campbell</a>
See over page for McGrath's other ACT picks - Turner, Crace and Franklin
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">TURNER</a></li>
</ul>
Turner is seen by McGrath as a “very solid performer” and one of the closest established suburbs to the CBD. He notes that a lot of new boutique developments of apartments and townhouses are going in, and that it has “low long-term vacancy rates &amp; reliable capital growth”.
It is also close to the Australian National University (ANU), which he says makes it popular with students, academics and CBD executives.
A five minute drive north of the CBD, and less than 30 minutes to walk, the suburb is bound by Northbourne Avenue to the east, Barry Drive to the south and David Street to the north. It has a substantial amount of green parkland throughout, particularly through the central corridor, including Masson Street Oval and Haig Park West. Much of this surrounds Sullivans Creek, which runs vertically through the centre of the suburb.
Bus routes are regular along Boldrewood Street, McCaughey Street and Northbourne Avenue.
The area is home to Treehouse in the Park Early Learning Centre and Turner School, with adjacent Turner School Playing Field. ANU is just outside the suburb’s boundaries, to the south. Those looking for options to buy units, should note that higher density dwellings are more common in the northern part of the suburb.
The 2011 Census recorded 3,595 people in residence in the suburb, with a median age of 30. In total, 72% of the dwellings were recorded as flats, units or apartments, with another 20.2% recorded as separate houses. The most common dwelling were two bedrooms, at 42.6%, followed by one bedroom and three bedrooms at 27.4% and 20.4% respectively. In the area, 62.8% are rented.
Statistics to know
<ul>
<li>Vacancy rate: 2%</li>
</ul>
Source: SQM Research
Houses
<ul>
<li>Median price: $1,185,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $520</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 2.28%</li>
<li>12 month growth: 29.37%</li>
</ul>
Units
<ul>
<li>Median price: $460,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $455</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 5.14%</li>
<li>12 month growth: -1.07%</li>
</ul>
Source: RP Data
Other neighbouring suburbs: <a href="/news">O’Connor</a>, <a href="/news">Braddon</a>, <a href="/news">Acton</a>
See over page for John McGrath's third pick - Crace and Franklin
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<ul>
<li><a href="/news">CRACE</a>, <a href="/news">FRANKLIN</a></li>
</ul>
These two suburbs are neighbours, and thus make the list as one entry. McGrath notes that they’re relatively new and popular with families due to their modern housing, landscaped parks, sporting facilities, cafes and schools.
“Crace is Australia’s fastest growing housing market according to the Housing Industry Association, based on the value of new home approvals and population growth,” he said.
Crace and Franklin are located within a 40 minute drive of each other, the lengthy time to drive to a neighbouring suburb due to the presence of Gungaderra Grasslands Nature Reserve between the two. Both are located within a 15 minute drive north of the CBD, some 10 kilometres away, and both are within the Gungahlin District.
The leafy Crace includes a number of parks, a Hilltop Reserve and even a community garden. It is bound by the Barton Highway and Gundaroo Drive. It saw the roads and display homes finished in 2009, so has some time until it is established. It was <a href="https://www.crace.com.au/" target="_blank">developed over the past five years as a joint venture</a> between project manager CIC Australia, and Land Development Agency, as well as Defence Housing Australia, Community Housing Canberra and Tatebrook Pty Ltd.
The sales and information centre closed permanently from the end of January this year, and the area won the 2014 ACT Property Council of the Year award for Project Development of the Year, as well as Best Masterplanned Community in the Innovation and Excellence Awards.
The area includes Abena North apartments (featuring 20 units), on the main boulevard, as well as terraces, including 17 townhouses in the Greenleigh Park development, and freestanding homes across the estate. About 1,600 homes were estimated on completion, with sales strong in the latter part of 2013. A number of other apartment projects are also located in Crace.
The bus route is not as comprehensive in this area, with services at Langtree Crescent and Abena Avenue.
Of course, the 2011 Census data will be a little less up to date than that for other suburbs. As of 2011, it notes that 563 people were in residence, with a median age of 27. There were 327 dwellings, with 45.6% of them being semi-detached, row or terrace houses, most likely with three bedrooms (35.2%) or two bedrooms (32.2%). At that point in time, 36.3% were rented.
Franklin, which is adjacent to the Mulanggari Grasslands Nature Reserve, also includes the Guburb Dhaura Heritage Park. It is primarily bound by Flemington Road, Well Station Drive and Gungahlin Drive.
The main bus route covers Hoskins Street, Oodgeroo Avenue and Flemington Road. There is an early childhood home in the area.
The 2011 Census data records a total of 3,804 people in the suburb, with a median age of 28. Of the dwellings, 82.3% were separate houses, of which 57.2% had four or more bedrooms. A further 30% had three bedrooms. Tenants in the area amount to 29.1% of the population.
Statistics to know (Crace) (Vacancy rate and unit data not available)
Houses
<ul>
<li>Median price: $562,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $450</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 4.16%</li>
<li>12 month growth: 0.81%</li>
</ul>
Source: RP Data
Statistics to know (Franklin)
<ul>
<li>Vacancy rate: 2.6%</li>
</ul>
Source: SQM Research
Houses
<ul>
<li>Median price: $543,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $460</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 4.41%</li>
<li>12 month growth: -7.26%</li>
</ul>
Units
<ul>
<li>Median price: $308,000</li>
<li>Median advertised weekly rent: $375</li>
<li>Gross rental yield: 6.34%</li>
<li>12 month growth: -3.30%</li>
</ul>
Source: RP Data
Other neighbouring suburbs: <a href="/news">Gungahlin</a>, <a href="/news">Mitchell</a>, <a href="/news">Harrison</a>, <a href="/news">Palmerston</a>, <a href="/news">Giralang</a>, <a href="/news">Kaleen</a>, <a href="/news">Nicholls</a>
YOU MIGHT ALSO WANT TO READ: 
<a href="/news/qld/john-mcgrath-s-five-south-east-queensland-hotspots">John McGrath's five south east Queensland hotspots</a>
<a href="/news/act/canberra-ranked-the-best-place-to-live-but-its-certainly-not-the-best-place-to-buy">Canberra ranked "the best place to live", but it's certainly not the best place to buy: Terry Ryder</a>
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John McGrath’s three Canberra hotspots under the microscope

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Canberra continues to rank as the most affordable state in Australia, however first home buyers shouldn’t get their hopes up.
The Adelaide Bank/REIA Housing Affordability Report notes that while it looks good on paper, the reality may be a different story.
For the ninth year in a row, Canberra records the highest affordability level based on a median house price of $535,000 put into the ratio of median family income to average loan repayments. This sees the proportion for the ACT stand at 19.8%, compared to New South Wales with the worst result at 35.3%.
REIA president Peter Bushby said that the report showed a positive for Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania home buyers, with affordability improvements over the last quarter. The ACT recorded the strongest annual improvement, despite remaining unchanged over the quarter.
However, Bushby said that first home buyers might not be consider it to be the case in the ACT.
“While on paper, Canberrans have access to the most affordable homes, I suspect many people don’t feel that this is the case, especially first home buyers,” he said.
“While the ACT recorded a 9.7% increase in the number of loans to first home buyers this quarter, this figure is down 34.4% when compared to this time last year,” Bushby explained.
With the First Home Owner Grant for established homes ending a year ago, this was unsurprising, he explained, noting that most states now have restrictions on the established market that he considers “disappointing”.
Canberra’s high median family income sat at $2,491 for the June quarter, with New South Wales recording a median family income at $1,562, where their median house price is $811,837. It seems the high earners in the ACT may be what is behind the territory’s achievement of the “most affordable” title.
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Canberran first time buyers left in the lurch, despite highest affordability level

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A new review into the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 has been announced to balance out the rights of landlords and tenants, according to Attorney-General Simon Corbell.
Corbell said the review would look for an “appropriate” balance of rights for tenants and landlords.
"It gives everyone an opportunity to have their say about whether the law is operating fairly and effectively,” he said.
In property circles it’s commonly believed that tenants are given more flexibility at tribunal.
It will also look at issues around share housing, rental home sustainability and rental accommodation standards.
The sustainability discussion looks at the effects of mandating or providing incentives to lessors or tenants retrofitting sustainability measures, as well as to whether there are any impediments at present.
Share home issues include whether the Act should be required to impose a legal framework.
Submissions are invited by 12 September, 2014 on the discussion papers, which are currently available on www.justice.act.gov.au and there is also an online survey.
The review is being conducted by the Justice and Community Safety Directorate.
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ACT tenants and landlord rights to be re-balanced under Residential Tenancies Act review

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ACT police are investigating a real estate fraud after a Canberra home sold without the consent of the absentee landlord home owner.
The real estate scam at <a href="/news">Macgregor</a> has all the hallmarks of prior fraudulent sales by overseas fraudsters.
The owner, living in South Africa, discovered the north side house had been sold after contacting her local ACT property manager as she had not receive the past four rental payments. 
ACT Police has taken control of the investigation in consultation with police in South Africa. 
"Police will investigate a series of exchanges which led to the sale of the property without the owner’s knowledge or consent, and the disbursement of the funds generated by the deception," the statement said.
The ACT Attorney General Simon Corbell has warned home owners to be vigilant of scammers.
The details of the Macgregor scam have not been publicly released, but Property Observer notes sales over the period between last October and February this year ranged between $200,000 and $560,000. There was a $335,000 average sale price.
There have been similar cases in WA including two successful sales and six attempted real estate frauds.
The ACT Real Estate Institute CEO, Ron Bell told 2CC Capital Radio that agents and homeowners must be wary as the scammers tend to get through the web.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: 
<a href="/news/14-anti-fraud-tips-for-investment-property-owners-and-vendors">14 anti-fraud tips for investment property vendors</a>
 
 
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Absentee Macgregor landlord loses ACT home to South African fraudster

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In a painful lesson to get insured upon settlement, a Canberra home was left with $100,000 worth of damage after 70 teenagers turned up for a party.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-09/teen-vandals-trash-home-at-kambah-during-house-part-owners/5584810" target="_blank">According to the ABC</a>, the uninhabited house was advertised as a free house party on a social media website, attracting around 70 15 to 18 year olds who smashed windows, pulled down doors and kicked in walls. Police said the owners, who were renovating the house and living elsewhere, did not know any of the teenagers and had not heard about the party invitation. They had only recently bought the <a href="/news">Tuggeranong</a> house.
Police arrived at the home just after 9pm on Tuesday, finding teenagers leaving.
The ABC reports that Sergeant Mark Roswell, Tuggeranong Station's acting officer in-charge, said the owners were "obviously quite upset and pretty devastated by the damage caused to their house".
"For any teens that were involved, I urge you to come forward and talk to us... It would be better for them to come forward than wait for police to come knock on their door,"said Roswell. He said the owners of cars on the street that night would be contacted.
"This is a rarity, it doesn't happen often in Canberra," he said.
"People do have house parties often, most people don't break into other people's houses to do so."
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

$100,000 worth of damage as teenagers vandalise Canberra home

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ACT real estate agent Mark Blinksell, ex-director of Grapevine Property &amp; Business, has been fined $10,000 after using a client’s deposit from a trust fund to pay down his own mortgage.
In February, <a href="/news/act/canberra-agent-s-license-cancelled-after-taking-trust-money-to-fund-home-loan">Property Observer reported that Blinksell had his license cancelled for five years</a> and had been disqualified for applying for a real estate of business salesperson’s registration for three years after he was found guilty of engaging in dishonest conduct by misapplying deposit monies received in 2013.
The deposit funds, that had been received around 7 January, 2013, in his role as vendor’s agent, were effectively stolen. He subsequently misrepresented and lied about where the funds were. He had been engaged by the vendor in October 2012, and received $22,000 in a deposit cheque from the buyers in the January.
Blinksell was given a six-month suspended jail sentence and a three year good behaviour bond. He had paid back the money with interest.
ACT Commissioner for Fair Trading Brett Phillips said that the ACT government takes real estate agents’ breaches of the law seriously.
"Real estate agents regularly handle large sums of money for their clients, and it is vital that they understand the gravity of such a responsibility," said Phillips.
Blinksell had operated Grapevine since 2009. He previously held positions at Mirvac and Capital Property Trust.
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Agent fined for using client’s deposit to pay off own mortgage

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You may be surprised to learn that the greatest place to live in Australia is … wait for it, Canberra!
In another of those pointless exercises in which bureaucrats take delight, the Organisation of Economic Co-operation has developed a global well-being matching tool, which considers factors such as safety, health, services, life expectancy, environment, crime rates and income.
Using this exciting new technology, it has determined that Canberra outranks every other city in Australia as the best place to live out your days.
This being so, you might wonder why Sydney has 4.6 million residents and Canberra 380,000, and why there are eight Australia cities with more people than Canberra. Even Tasmania has more residents than the ACT.
Apparently all those poor saps in Sydney don’t know that Canberra is a superior city. Imagine - four million Australians, living a lie.
But here’s an important thought: despite what the OECD tool says about life expectancy, you don’t live longer in Canberra, it just feels that way.
Do the OECD boffins realise that living in Canberra means having Tony Abbott as a neighbour? Or, even worse, Clive Palmer?
Another relevant question is this: if Canberra’s so damn good, how come it’s the worst-performing property market in capital city Australia?
Every other city is showing at least some forward movement in its property markets, but Australia’s best place to be is going nowhere.
Prices have stagnated at a time of very high growth down the road in inferior Sydney. Canberra rents are going backwards and developers of apartment buildings are having to downsize through lack of buyer interest.
Auction clearance rates are 53% for houses and 36% for apartments.
<a href="/news">Goulburn</a>, not far from Canberra, is showing solid growth, but in the capital there’s little in the way of meaningful growth.
<a href="/news">Gosford</a>, where the federal government plans to send 600 Canberra jobs, apparently oblivious to the OECD’s findings, is booming.
Canberra markets are stalled by uncertainty and nervousness resulting from the federal government’s plans to make big cuts to the public sector workforce.
Canberra has maintained consistent turnover of residential property, quarter by quarter, throughout 2013 and into early 2014. The city seems to churn through 1,250 to 1,300 home sales each quarter with consistency.
But, unlike every other capital city in Australia, it has no suburbs charging forward price-wise.
At the top end of the Canberra market, prices are falling. In upmarket <a href="/news">Yarralumla</a>, the median price has dropped 7% in the past 12 months. In <a href="/news">Griffith</a>, the median price has fallen 12% (but remains above $1 million). Equally swanky <a href="/news">Red Hill</a> has dropped 14% in 12 months.
So, a damn fine place to live, if you don’t mind stiff winters and lousy neighbours, but not a great place to own real estate at the moment.
You can contact Terry via  <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
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