Fresh off completing Pienza Neutral Bay, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-element">Central Element</a> is preparing its next move in the coveted Lower North Shore suburb.&nbsp;

Central Element (CE) has lodged plans for an eight-storey apartment building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/54-64-barry-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">54–64 Barry Street</a>, a 1,659 sqm site just south of Military Road and the Neutral Bay town centre.

The $52 million development will involve the demolition of four detached homes across four lots to deliver 45 apartments, including eight affordable housing units to be managed by Bridge Housing. The mix will comprise six one-bedroom apartments, 24 two-beds, and 15 three-beds. The apartments will sit above three basement levels with 62 car parking spaces and 50 bicycle spaces.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mhn-design-union">MHN Design Union</a> (MHNDU) has returned as architect following its work on Pienza, again shaping a mid-rise form with a clear street presence. The design features a lower four-storey podium element that responds to surrounding context, with upper levels recessed to reduce perceived bulk. Communal open space is proposed both at ground level and on the rooftop, the latter including an outdoor kitchen and swimming pool.

“The building has been designed with a lower four-storey element and with building materials commensurate with the character of the area,” Beam Planning noted in its submission to the North Sydney Council.

<img alt="Barry Street, Neutral Bay Nsw 2089" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a28ab3a-b8ba-4476-81cd-e4a8bb84f3a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Barry-Street-Neutral-Bay-1327x742.png?VersionId=hlgvxszAWXIHgHtdR5HiwIKiSli2lLZV" />

Bridge Housing will manage the affordable units for a period of 15 years, as required under the Housing SEPP’s incentive provisions.

MHNDU’s design report further highlights the site's strategic location just 250 metres from key bus stops and 1.3 kilometres from North Sydney CBD, positioning it for transit-accessible housing supply. In their planning justification, the design team emphasised the site’s compatibility with emerging local character and scale.

Central Element has a solid apartment pipeline spread all over Sydney. They recently completed&nbsp;Pienza, 37 apartments just 500 metres away from the new project, and are currently building Ethos Chatswood, Ballamac House in Coogee, and Bianca on the harbour in Drummoyne.

They have plans for future projects in Mosman, Bondi Beach, Greenwich, Lavender Bay, along with a tower on the edge of Hyde Park.

Joel Robinson

First look: Central Element unveils second Neutral Bay apartment project

Real estate investment fund Wentworth Wentworth Equities is soon to launch a "Los Angeles-inspired" residential, leisure and lifestyle precinct in Brisbane’s Hamilton riverside ahead of the predicted Olympic-led population explosion for the city.

Drawing its style inspiration and name from Los Angeles’ renowned The Grove, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hamilton-grove-19-hercules-street-hamilton-qld-4007">Hamilton Grove</a> will feature three residential towers and a vibrant street-level public precinct with curated luxury lifestyle, retail and dining offerings.

The first of the three towers, to launch in March 2026, will comprise 61 apartments, in the same building as a premium hotel.<img alt="Hamilton Grove" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d227fe61-8392-45b7-b386-9133f29a249f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-19%20at%209.10.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=HTCV35HZ4h84jQCmHwhsdIPN0ctO5d7Z" />

Wentworth Equities Executive Chairman Sameh Ibrahim said the precinct will be unique in its appeal to both residents and the wider community.

“Hamilton is already one of Brisbane’s most sought-after riverside suburbs and for good reason,” Ibrahim said.

“Where else in the world can you walk out of your front door and have everything you could possibly need at your fingertips? The city is just around the corner, the airport is only ten minutes away, you have the river and green spaces right there and premium retail and dining on your doorstep."

Wentworth Equities acquired the 7637 sqm Hercules St site in 2014, when Ibrahim said he had a "very clear vision" for the precinct, but ultimately it wasn't the right time to develop. He said Hamilton was still very much an "emerging precinct."

“Since then, Hamilton and surrounding suburbs like Ascot and Albion have significantly grown and matured into a precinct that aligns with our vision for Hamilton Grove. Brisbane as a whole has so much to offer in the way of lifestyle appeal, but as it stands it is so widespread – you go to Howard Smith Wharves for fine dining, you go to James Street for shopping, you go to West End to walk along the river – but what if you could go to Hamilton Grove for everything?

“Our vision is a precinct that brings together the best of Brisbane into one central space abundant with culture, class and culinary experience – a place that a lucky few will get to call home, but the rest of Brisbane still get to explore and experience at their leisure.”

<img alt="Hamilton Grove" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="46550990-8aeb-44d4-bb47-150cdca96529" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-01-19%20at%209.10.50%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bmCkApPKY_Bj3z02Q8vI7Kyo_caJXOnv" />

Experienced civil engineering contractor Mainland Civil has been appointed to commence early works for the project, adding Hamilton Grove to their extensive portfolio where it will join other iconic Brisbane developments including Queens Wharf, 300 George Street, Infinity Tower and 1 William Street.

Construction on Tower One is scheduled to commence in early 2026 with completion expected in late 2028.

Fast Facts 
 
• Three residential towers and a vibrant street-level public precinct with curated luxury lifestyle, retail and dining offerings. 
• Construction on Tower One is expected to commence in Quarter One 2026, with completion expected in late 2028. 
• 7,637 square metre site at 19 Hercules St, Hamilton (part of Economic Development Queensland’s 304 hectare Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area). 
• 61 waterfront residences and skyhomes in the first tower, ranging from two to five bedrooms. 
• Hamiton Grove will be officially launched in March 2026.

"LA-inspired" Hamilton Grove to launch on Brisbane riverside

There’s a quiet patch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hawthorn-vic-3122">Hawthorn</a>, between the bustle of Glenferrie Road and the curve of the Yarra, that rarely sees change, and even more rarely, new apartments. But that’s exactly where <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pomeroy-pacific-quattro-corp">PQD</a> is planting Kooyongkoot: a deliberate, 18-residence answer to the question of what downsizers actually want.

“This is something this pocket of Hawthorn has never seen before,” says Fil Gacesa, head of sales at PQD. “<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a> will deliver just 18 large-scale apartments in the heart of Hawthorn. It is the true definition of resort-style living.”

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/59D7VxzltmM?si=1iCzRD7FRneKryfv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

That scale is central to the story. It’s what allows for two dedicated lift cores, short corridors, and a generous lightcourt that draws natural ventilation and sunlight into every residence. It’s also what makes room for the sort of amenity usually confined to high-density towers: a fully equipped wellness centre with infrared and traditional saunas, yoga and pilates studio, cold therapy shower, and treatment room. There’s a golf simulator, car and dog wash stations, and extensive storage too, not bolted on, but baked in from the start.

But more than the checklist, it’s the design intent that carries weight. “This project has been many years in the making,” says Mark Pomeroy, Director of PQD. “Not just in planning, but in listening, to what our buyers and the local community are looking for”.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355289]

That listening shows up in the materials, oak floors, natural stone, V-ZUG appliances, and in how space is handled. Penthouses feature private rooftop terraces with pools. Terraces and garden residences embrace outdoor connection. Inside, the layouts skew large and open, geared for hosting, not just housing.

Architecturally, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>’s approach is grounded. There’s no reaching for spectacle here. Instead, the building offers a sculptural calm, anchored by landscaping from Eckersley Garden Architecture.&nbsp;

“We wanted to create spaces that feel expansive, serene, and meaningfully connected to daily life,” said founding partner Chris Stribley elsewhere.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

That sentiment, calm, connection, echoes in the location itself. Kooyongkoot sits just a short stroll from Central Gardens, Fairview Park, and the Rivoli Cinema. Tram lines and schools are close, but the street is tucked, quiet, and leaf-lined.&nbsp;

“Residents of Kooyongkoot will be a short stroll from Fairview Park, Central Gardens, and the Glenferrie Road retail strip," Gacesa notes, "but you're also cocooned in this peaceful pocket behind extensive landscaping by Eckersley Garden Architecture.”

Kooyongkoot is set for completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Staff Writer

The project that said no to compromise: Inside Kooyongkoot, Hawthorn

When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=358855]

Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357493]

The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357508]

Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

Project management and construction management firm Creative Vision filed the plans for the&nbsp;multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Brickx

<html><body>
BrickX has been acquired by Thundering Herd, a venture capital and private equity investment firm.

Markus Kahlbetzer's BridgeLane Capital Pty Ltd, which had provided funding for the acquisition of properties, is no longer a shareholder or related party of BrickX, the fractional property investment platform.

The venture capital outfits of National Australia Bank and Westpac have also cashed out of their investment in BrickX, along with Reinventure Group.

Thundering Herd are making plans to expand the current property portfolio across both residential and commercial markets. 

The platform has 19 properties, with its <a href="/news/wa/brickx-invest-in-first-perth-property">last purchase at Perth</a>, its first in WA, back in November 2018. 

Despite having stalled, the AFR reported BrickX was in the final stages of due diligence for more than 10 properties.

The BrickX acquisition adds to Thundering Herd's portfolio of investments in the property space.

The VC firm is the majority owner of debt syndication platform Lend Collective and the largest secured creditor of fractional property play DomaCom.

The BrickX platform, which was co-founded by Darren Patterson in 2014, will continue to function with no envisaged disruption.   Thundering Herd's recent investments include Lend Collective and GoFetch.

Thundering Herd's 2015 co-founder is the Melbourne based Joe Galvez, having worked for the likes of Deutsche Bank, Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley and Macquarie Group.

It is not known what price Thundering Herd paid for the business which saw the two big banks initially backed BrickX in late 2017 and early 2018, when they both took a stake in a $9 million Series A funding round.

BrickX has around 70,000 people signed up to the platform with just the 10,000 active investors.

Each property is divided into 10,000 bricks and the value fluctuates based on the market sentiment at the time. Investors receive rental income based on their share.

Allunga Advisory helped with the search for the new capital partner.

<h2>Recently listed properties:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29358]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3298]
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

BrickX sold to Thundering Herd by BridgeLane-led venture capital syndicate

<html><body>
With auction clearance rates pointing to stronger real estate markets, property ownership disruptor BrickX could be looking to expand its portfolio of houses and flats, to allow more investors to buy its “bricks”.
BrickX is understood to be fielding investment options from a range of suitors interested in its concept of fractionalising property ownership. 
After just three months in the role BrickX’s CEO Kareene Koh has announced a permanent fee cut to the property investment service.
BrickX has slashed its fees on the purchase and sale of Bricks from 1.75 per cent to just 0.5 per cent. 
“Our vision is to make property accessible for all Australians by providing a simple way for our growing community to share in the Australian residential property market.” says Kareene.
In the last five years, BrickX has grown to over 13,500 members and touts 19 properties users can invest in. 
With the new reductions a member purchasing a Brick for $50 would only have to pay a fee of 25 cents.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

BrickX permanently cuts fees by 70%

<html><body>
Fractional property investment platform BrickX have entered the Perth market over the Christmas period.
They've paid $1.04 million for a renovated 1930s home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-kensington-129759462" target="_blank">29 Campbell Street</a> in Kensington, a southern suburb of Perth.
Its purchase reflected a 3.5% rental yield.
They are yet to release the cost per brick, which is how investors value their share of the property.
Their first purchase in Perth was undertaken after consultation with its buying panel, which include CoreLogic's Tim Lawless and the REA Group's chief economist Nerida Conisbee. The buying team includes two buyers' agent.
<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/2019/2/4/Brickx-Perth2.jpg" alt="">
The three bedroom, two bathroom home on the leafy Campbell Street is currently seeking $700 a week tenants.
BrickX snapped up the character home just eight days in to its marketing.
It last traded for $216,000 in 1997.
Kensington's median house price value has increased 4.6% in the last five years. It now sits at $895,000, approaching its 2015 highs of $910,000.
It's now the fourth state BrickX invested in, with previous purchases in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia.
Last year they bought their first property in Central Victoria, a home <a href="/news/brickx-buy-first-regional-property-at-soldiers-hill-ballarat">in Soldiers Hill</a>, quickly followed by <a href="/news/brickx-buy-again-near-ballarat-in-central-victoria">another in Ballarat</a>.
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

BrickX invest in first Perth property

<html><body>
Fractional property investment platform BrickX have continued their 2018 spending.
They've settled on a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-kingswood-128923126" target="_blank">1920s home in Kingswood</a>, a southern suburb of the Adelaide CBD near Mitcham Square.
It's the second property they've bought in South Australia having spent $825,100 on a St Peters home mid last year.
<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/2018/10/10/BrickX1.jpg" alt="">
The new $567,500 purchase has two bedrooms and one updated bathroom.
The character features of the 1920s have been retained, including high ceilings, polished timber floorboards and an open fireplace.
It has an outdoor entertaining area with verandah and pergola on its 301 square metre Arnold Street parcel.
<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/2018/10/10/brick3.jpg" alt="">
Bricks are being offered at $47 per brick.
A tenant has been secured at $400 a week, which reflects an annual net rental yield of just under 1.6%.
The home is set to bring in a total of $7,429 a year.
BrickX advise the historical suburb growth of Kingswood is 7.5% per annum.
Earlier this year BrickX bought a property in Soldiers Hill, their first in Central Victoria, quickly followed by another in Ballarat nearby, as well as an apartment in Darlinghurst. 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

BrickX secure second Adelaide property

<html><body>
Fractional investment platform BrickX have secured their second property in Ballarat in as many months.
They've secured a three bedroom Haverlock Street home which last traded for $200,000 in 2013. 
It's been extensively renovated since then and now features timber floored living and dining spaces and a new kitchen.
<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/2018/9/19/BRICKX2.jpg" alt="">
The front facade has been given a facelift and there's now a dedicated rear alfresco courtyard space on the 615 sqm block.
Recent street sales suggest the home could have fetched anywhere between $300,000 and $415,000, however more likely at the top end of the scale.
 <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/2018/9/19/brickx3.jpg" alt="">
BrickX have advised in their marketing for the Bricks that the Ballarat North region has seen an eight percent annual growth over the last 20 years.
It is being offered at $34 a Brick.
It's the <a href="/news/brickx-buy-first-regional-property-at-soldiers-hill-ballarat">second central Victoria property</a> BrickX have bought in as many months.
In August they announced their first, not far away in Soldiers Hill, another suburb of Ballarat.
They paid $401,000 for a two bed home on 410 sqm, with Bricks being offered at $33 per brick.
</body></html>

BrickX buy again near Ballarat in Central Victoria

<html><body>
Fractional property investment platform BrickX have bought their first regional property in Central Victoria.
They've spent $401,000 on a two bedroom home in Soldiers Hill, a small suburb of Ballarat.
BrickX suggest regional Victoria has been popular with first home buyers, families and investors who have been priced out of the Melbourne market in the last 12 months.
"Ballarat is particularly attractive due to its quieter lifestyle, picturesque town centre and proximity to Melbourne," BrickX advised. 
The last two bedroom home to sell on the street <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-soldiers+hill-128297754" target="_blank">fetched $295,000</a>, while another <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-soldiers+hill-126316626" target="_blank">two bedroom home</a> on the street sold for $275,000 late last year.
<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/2018/8/22/brickx3.jpg" alt="">
There's been over eight percent annual historic region growth over the last two decades.
The 418 sqm block of land sold for $200,000 in 2010 before the home was built.
BrickX are offering Bricks at $33 per Brick, their cheapest offering across their 16 properties.
The buyers agent Cate Bakos recently suggested recent capital growth run over the last four years had adversely impacted the median rental yield figures.
"The rising rents have not kept up with the rising house prices; and this is not unusual," adding state-based stamp duty concessions for first home buyers had played a part in the growth trajectory of Victoria's more affordable regional centers.
She noted Soldiers Hill was the favoured suburb for most Melburnian investors "who aspire to a Fitzroy styled suburb with turn of the century buildings, brick terraces and wide, tree-lined streets and the beautiful city center within short walking distance."
Soldiers Hill has enjoyed a reported 8.2% average annual capital growth of late and the popularity of postcode 3350 continues to attract newcomers to the area.
The underlying growth prospects for Ballarat as a city relates to job growth, increased employer options, new government contracts and easier commutes to Melbourne, Bakos suggests.
Rail upgrades that have enabled faster train travel, increased services and the continued introduction of government de-centralised services have enabled Ballarat to become a stand-out option for first home buyers, upgraders, downsizers and local buyers.
It's the second Brickx purchase this year after the innovative platform spent $639,000 on a <a href="/news/brickx-buys-its-15th-fractional-ownership-property-in-darlinghurst">one bedroom apartment in Darlinghurst.</a>
BrickX went on a buying spree last year, securing six properties.
They started with a $1.3 million <a href="/news/brickx-offers-95-brick-for-townhouse-in-sydneys-surry-hills">Surry Hills townhouse</a>, before buying an $885,000 <a href="/expert-insights/investing/brickx-on-buying-spree-unveil-one-bed-potts-point-unit-at-66-a-brick">Potts Point one bedder</a> and $1.11 million <a href="/news/brickx-to-offer-manly-apartment-for-87-a-brick">two bedroom apartment in Manly</a>.
They then bought their second Melbourne property, a <a href="/news/brickx-launches-terrace-home-in-melbourne-s-brunswick-west-at-99-per-brick">$1.19 million, three bedroom house</a> in Brunswick.
A $1.83 million <a href="/news/brickx-to-offer-balmain-house-to-investors-for-140-per-brick">Balmain East home</a> followed, before Brickx ventured in to Adelaide for the first time, securing a <a href="/expert-insights/investing/brickx-set-to-offer-adelaide-house-to-investors-at-74-a-brick">two bedroom St Peters home</a> for $825,100.
When entering the Adelaide market, CEO Anthony Millet said he wanted to offer investors diversity and an alternative to the Sydney and Melbourne property markets. 
 
 
</body></html>

BrickX buy first regional property at Soldiers Hill, Ballarat

<html><body>
Fractional property investment platform BrickX have announced their first property of 2018, an apartment in Darlinghurst. It is now their 15th property in total.
BrickX paid $639,000 for the one bedroom unit on the tree-lined Royston Street. They are offering Bricks at $69.
It was advertised by Ray White Elizabeth Bay selling agents Ian Campbell and Nick Thompson as an attractive affordable first home.
<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/2018/4/4/brick2.jpg" alt="">
Last traded for $360,000 in 2011, the top floor apartment on level three is set in the corner of the Art Deco building.
There is a separate kitchen, bedroom and ensuite.
Last year in the block there were two sales of one bedroom units. One sold for $635,000, the other $656,000.
<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/2018/4/4/brickx1.jpg" alt="">
BrickX are suggesting there is a strong net rental yield of 2.5%.
They say over 60% of Darlinghurst residents are renters.
CoreLogic figures show house prices in Darlinghurst have increased by 7% per annum over the past 20 years.
Tim Lawless, CoreLogic Head of Research and member of the BRICKX adviser panel, said the return is better than average.
“The past two decades has seen Darlinghurst unit values rise at the annual rate of 6.6% per annum which is higher than the Greater Sydney average.
“With solid labour market conditions low mortgage rates and overseas migration rates continuing to boom across New South Wales, inner fringe apartment markets where new supply is constrained are likely to continue outperforming the broader market.”
BrickX have just announced they have reached 10,000 members, with over $17 million transacted on the platform since its launch.
The first four properties since the launch have returned an annualised return of seven percent.
</body></html>

BrickX buys its 15th fractional ownership property in Darlinghurst

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Fractional property investment platform BrickX have announced that NAB Ventures, National Australia Bank’s corporate venture capital arm, has invested in the startup.
The deal is part of a $9 million Series A funding round.
BrickX allows Australians to invest in residential property by buying 'Bricks' in a BrickX property.
The platform means people can invest in residential property for a few hundred dollars.
NAB Ventures – which supports businesses and entrepreneurs in their quest to build leading technology companies – saw the investment potential in democratising property ownership in the Australian market.
The value of BRICKX in providing Aussies with a financial stepping stone to achieve the Australia Dream of home ownership was another driver for investment. 
BrickX CEO Anthony Millet said BrickX is expanding rapidly.
“Housing affordability continues to be a priority for Australia’s banks, so the alignment between BRICKX and NAB Ventures has a strong and unified purpose.
“The prohibitive costs and high deposits needed to gain access to the property market, has left many out in the cold. However, BRICKX has opened up the residential property asset class as an alternative investment to any of the traditional investment options. 
“Considering the recent volatility in the cryptocurrency and stock markets, Australians are recognising the longer-term stability of property prices.” 
Todd Forest, Managing Director of NAB Ventures, said he was excited to invest in BRICKX and help support a new way of approaching property ownership. 
“The aspiration for property ownership has long been the Australian dream, however buying a property often has challenges for many consumers – such as the rise in house prices in some areas and trying to save for a deposit. 
“BRICKX is disrupting this journey, in how it provides consumers with access to the property market and engages with them in creating a pathway to property ownership.
“NAB Ventures chose BRICKX as the leading opportunity, based on its unique business model, exceptional user experience and the opportunity to leverage the platform to innovate and help more Australians with their home ownership goals.” 
Founded in 2014, BRICKX launched to retail investors in September 2016 and has grown to offer 14 properties across Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide along with more than 9,000 members.
They have properties in Sydney's Mosman, Manly, Potts Point, Darlinghurst and Bondi Beach, as well as a terrace home in Melbourne's Brunswick and a stone fronted villa in South Adelaide.
The NAB Ventures investment in the 'Series A' funding round for BRICKX follows on from Westpac’s Reinventure investment in late 2017.
Since the Reinventure investment, the number of BRICKX members has grown by nearly 25%. 

 
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

NAB banks on property tech disruptor BRICKX to rebuild hope in the Australian Dream

<html><body>
BrickX, the fractional property investing platform, is seeing discounted prices available on the ‘brick’ valuations on many of its properties.
Discounts on official valuations were available on eight of its property offerings.
BrickX divides each property it acquires into 10,000 units it calls ‘Bricks’ and offers them to investors. 
The largest discount per brick was for a two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.brickx.com/properties/DBB01/summary" target="_blank">7/22 Ocean Avenue</a> (picture above) in Sydney’s Double Bay. The discount is 2.5 percent for a brick priced at $96. 
The discount is measured as a percentage of the official ‘brick’ valuation price. In this case, the brick valuation price is $98.46. 
Another two-bedroom unit, this one at Manly’s 4/8 James Street, has its bricks discounted by 2.3 percent. The lowest available brick is priced at $85 now.
In Bondi Beach, the discount on a brick for a two-bedroom unit at 2/5 Ramsgate Avenue is 2.19 percent. The lowest brick is priced at $98.
In Sydney’s Mosman, there is a discount of 1.69 percent on each brick of $141 for a two-bedroom unit at 18/5 Parriwi Road.
In Sydney’s inner suburb of Surry Hills, a two-bedroom unit has its bricks being offered at a discount of 1.05 percent at $94 per brick.
Another Melbourne property, at three-bedroom house at 10 Shamrock Street in Brunswick West, has its bricks discounted by 1.01 percent at $98 per brick.
A house in Sydney's Annandale at 109 Albion Street has its lowest priced 'brick' being offered at a discount of 0.74 percent to the 'brick' valuation. The lowest brick price is $112. 
Another house, this one a three-bedder at 24 Clayton Street in Sydney’s waterside suburb of Balmain, has bricks being offered at a 0.71 percent discount at $139 each.
The same discount of 0.71 percent is being offered for a two-bedroom unit at 4/6 Miller Street in  Melbourne’s Prahran. The price for the lowest available brick is $123.
Not all properties held by BrickX have discounts though.
Property Observer counted five properties where bricks are being sold at a premium. One at Enmore is trading at an eight percent premium to valuation. There also are properties in Adelaide’s St Peters, Port Melbourne, and in Sydney’s Potts Point and Darlinghurst at a premium.
At last count, BrickX had 8,256 active members while its properties had a total value of $16.87 million.
During the release of its six-monthly valuations in July, BrickX said the Annandale house rose in value by 7.4 per cent in the last six months, the most for any of its acquisitions. 
<div>Investors are in control of selecting the price at which they wish to sell their Bricks, its CEO Anthony Millet recently advised.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"Whilst property is generally a medium to long term investment, the opportunity to put your Bricks up for sale does give a lot of flexibility to the investor in exiting should their investment strategy or personal circumstances change. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>"At any point in time we have a number of sellers who are selling their bricks (as is to be expected with any investment, shares, or pulling money out of a savings account etc) which also provides liquidity opportunities for buyers to enter existing investments."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>He said the majority of these transactions occurs within a +/- 2% premium or discount to the last valuation (last conducted in July 2017).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"To date the median time it has taken someone to sell their position has been circa 14 hours - which is pretty amazing when you consider how long it takes to sell an entire property.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"In addition, customers are only paying a 1.75% transaction fee when they sell, which considered against the cost of selling a property can often be 4%+ (when you take into account agent fees, lack of rent/voids periods, remedial work) this compares very favourably to the traditional way of dealing in property.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"New and existing investors also see Brickx listed for sale at a discount to the last valuation as a good opportunity to enter the property market or add to their position and build their portfolios.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"As at now, Bricks listed for sale at discounts relate to 0.6% of the total value of the BRICKX portfolio, so are relatively thin in volume," he said last week.</div>
 
 
</body></html>

Discounted BrickXs on offer - but in thin volume 

<html><body>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Westpac Banking Corp's venture capital fund Reinventure Group has invested in the fractional property ownership platform Brickx.
Reinventure have not disclosed the amount of the fund's investment.
The deal is reportedly the 17th investment by Reinventure Group, which has received $100 million of funding from Westpac. 
Reinventure is also backing other property related startups including openagent.com.au and Nabo, a free social media platform that enables individuals and community organisations to instantly and directly connect online with others in their suburb.
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
Danny Gilligan, co-founder of Reinventure, says it was attracted to Brickx as the site was looking holistically at the property financing, buying and living experience on one platform. 
</div>
Around half of the 7600 investors on the Brickx platform are under the age of 35.
Some three-quarters of them have never had any exposure to residential property.
The platform allows investors to purchase "bricks", or part-ownership rights that allow their owners to access capital gains on the property and receive rental income.
The bricks can be sold on the platform.
Each of the current 14 properties are split into 10,000 bricks. 
</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">Brickx CEO Anthony Millet told Fairfax Media that many investors have been buying "bricks" as an alternative to bank deposit.</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section"> </div>
<div class="cq-article-content-media section">He said banks were interested in Brickx because it could provide self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) with exposure to property without them having to buy an entire property and manage it.</div>
<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
The platform may potentially be used to create an alternative to a reverse mortgage, freeing up home equity for retirees able to bring their existing property onto the platform.
 
</div>
</body></html>

Brickx

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Brickx

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.