Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<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/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Brisbane Apartments

Bide is the latest Newstead residential offering by Dibcorp Properties. It has been designed in collaboration with architects from Twohill &amp; James, Lat27 and Wiltshire Stevens Architecture.

It presents a new way of inner-city-living, with a range of special inclusions and an urban green space exclusively for residents to relax, unwind and even work from home.

Bide comprises 89 spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments just three kilometres from the CBD.

Urban has taken a look at Bide in more detail and picked out its top five reasons why buyers should be looking at the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163979]

1. Delivered by Dibcorp Properties

Dibcorp takes pride in their ability to evenly meet the needs of their clients, urban location and company in every development they lead.

Founded in 1996, they focus on their response to the needs of modern living with each project, including other Newstead works like Dwell and CASA, offering unique features and amenities to ease the demands of daily use.

Started by Franco Di Bartolomeo, Dibcorp previously operated via Mdev Property Group, which dealt primarily with residential and long-term commercial investment property.

With a focus on one on one customer interaction, Dibcorp exemplifies this in their latest development working hand in hand to create resident-customised homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163982]

2. Designed by Brisbane based TwoHill &amp; James

Twohill &amp; James are Brisbane based Architects and Interior Designers.

In their statement they said, &ldquo;Our work in residential, commercial, hospitality and institutional architecture has spurred an approach that is defined not by typology or scale but by inventive process, materialising as a collection of tangible experiences.&quot;

The practice has worked on such projects as the Byron Bay holiday villas The Norfolk and the dining and retail precinct Keperra Quarter in Keperra.

3. Customisable apartments

Every three-bedroom apartment comes with floor-to-ceiling glazing and private balconies with sweeping 270 degree city views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163977]

Dibcorp has offered residents the opportunity to work hand in hand to tailor the layout, configuration and finishes of their apartment.&nbsp;

Apartments inside feature open-plan living and dining, a balcony space and a study nook in some apartments for working from home.

The 121 sqm residences start from $950,000.

4. Located in sought after Newstead

Nestled in the heart of Newstead, Bide has been designed as an urban getaway just three kilometres north-east of the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163972]

It is the latest part of the suburb&#39;s transformation to an up-market residential suburb belying its industrial past. Timber yards, asbestos works, wharves and woolstores once dominated much of the predominantly commercial suburb, now one of the most sought-after apartment spots in Brisbane.

The dynamic suburb offers residents every desired amenity, with lifestyle, commercial and entertainment hubs within walking distance.

Bide is just a short distance away from Route 25 as well as the Teneriffe Ferry wharf and bus stations for those who choose public transit. As such it is right by the Brisbane river.

5. 600 square metres of amenities

There are 600 sqm of amenities spread across two levels, including BBQ facilities, private cabanas, landscaped areas and seating throughout.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163975]

Dubbed Bide Garden, there is the option to stroll through lush gardens and observe the greenery on view throughout the development.

With completion estimated for 2023, don&#39;t miss out on Bide, especially as Brisbane is now being recognised for what it is; a seemingly undervalued, and historically overlooked, market.

Bide comprises 89 spacious one, two and three-bedroom apartments just three kilometres from the CBD

jordan_55689

Why Dibcorp’s Bide apartments in Newstead should be on a buyer’s shortlist

Brisbane apartment values are continuing to demonstrate the steady growth profile they have shown in the year to date, according to property data firm CoreLogic.

Values rose 0.8 per cent over July, double the growth of apartments in Melbourne.

It puts Brisbane&#39;s rolling quarterly apartment gain at 2.7 per cent, following jumps of 0.7 per cent in June and 1.2&nbsp;per cent across May.

Brisbane&#39;s median apartment value reached a 2020 high of $390,000. Now it&#39;s $419,143, up from just over $415,000 last month.

Queensland as a whole has continued to see gross yields over&nbsp;5&nbsp;per cent for apartments, much more forgiving when compared to the significant&nbsp;yield compression seen in Sydney, where gross yields have fallen to 2.5%, and in Melbourne at 2.8%. Every other capital city is recording gross yields at 4% or higher.

<a href="/developments/brisbane-qld?source_news_article_id=107426&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/template_photoshop_brisbane_8.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The gains in the apartment market come as the booming housing market lost a little bit of steam over July.

CoreLogic&#39;s research director, Tim Lawless, suggests one of the reasons house prices are starting to lose a bit of steam is that they are becoming unaffordable for many.

&quot;With dwelling values rising more in a month than incomes are rising in a year, housing is moving out of reach for many members of the community,&quot; Lawless says.

<h2>Apartments on offer in and around Brisbane:</h2>

Bide 
Address:&nbsp;21 Longland Street, Newstead QLD 4006 
Three-bedroom apartments from $950,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163979]

Bide is a new residential offering nestled in the heart of Newstead, offering 89 apartments.

Developed by Dibcorp Properties, the functional apartments are designed as an urban seclusion hidden away in Brisbane

Situated just three kilometres from the CBD, Newstead has established itself as one of Brisbane&rsquo;s most sought-after suburbs.

The dynamic suburb offers residents every amenity, with lifestyle, commercial and entertainment hubs within walking distance, as well as its own&nbsp;zen garden, BBQ and a residents lounge.

Pearl, Main Beach 
Address: 3550-3552 Main Beach Parade, Main Beach QLD 4217 
Two-bedroom apartments starting from&nbsp;$749,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=169996]

The veteran Gold Coast developer Raptis has recently launched sales at its latest Main Beach apartment development, the $160 million Pearl, Main Beach.

The 30-level tower at 3550-3552 Main Beach Parade will have 80 apartments, including a luxury two-level penthouse.

Pearl, Main Beach, is the first foray in to the Main Beach market by Raptis, headed by founder Jim Raptis who started the company in Sydney back in the mid 1960s.

Chevron One 
Address: 36-44 Stanhill Drive, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 
Two-bedroom apartments from $858,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68834]

Comprising 236 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, Bensons Property Group&rsquo;s Chevron One stands as an iconic landmark in Surfers Paradise.

Rising 40 floors, the stylish high-rise features an organic sculptural form and rotating geometry that maximises views.

With close to 2000sqm of resort-style amenities, residents will enjoy Chevron&rsquo;s intuitive design and numerous facilities.

Designed by Marchese Partners, these amenities include a residents&rsquo; lounge, floating cinema, dining facilities and sculpted garden.

Brisbane's median apartment value reached a 2020 high of $390,000, Now it's $419,143, up from just over $415,000 last month

What happened to apartment values in Brisbane over July?

Sydney dwelling prices will rise 21.6 percent, the highest predicted growth rate on the mainland, according to revised NAB forecasts.

NAB has forecast Sydney in 2021 will then see a 3.1 per cent rise in 2022.

The National Australia Bank&rsquo;s latest quarterly residential property survey forecast Brisbane will secure the second highest dwelling price growth on the mainland.

It is forecast Brisbane will see a 19.5 per cent rise in 2021 and a 4.4 per cent rise in 2022, the strongest market next year.

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Melbourne will jump 17.6 per cent by the end of 2021, which was a 1.4 per cent rise on their prediction in April. There will be 3.5 percent Melbourne price growth in 2022.

All three major capital cities have followed the same pattern.

&quot;We have revised up our outlook for dwelling prices in 2021 and slightly lowered our expectations for 2022 to now 18.5% and 3.6%, respectively,&quot; NAB&#39;s Alan Oster said.

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&quot;Faster than expected outcomes in recent months see a higher starting base, and while we see a slowing in the monthly pace of growth from here, we still see solid growth over the next 6 months.

&quot;The upgrade to our forecast is relatively uniform across capital cities.&nbsp;

&quot;The better than expected recovery in the economy and labour market alongside very low interest rates has supported the strong rebound in the property market.&nbsp;

&quot;Affordability constraints will likely begin to bind over the year and see a slowing in price growth as the impact of lower rates fades,&quot; he said.

Hobart was tipped to see the fastest growth at 23.5 per cent in 2021 and a 4.3 per cent rise in 2022.

The report anticipates a 17.4 per cent rise in 2021 and 3.9 per cent rise in 2022 in Adelaide, and an 11.6 per cent rise in 2021 for Perth with a 3.9 per cent rise in 2022.

The NAB chief economist Alan Oster noted the latest survey of experts remained optimistic the property market would continue its strong trajectory.

&ldquo;Initially we were quite worried about the lockdowns, but what we&rsquo;ve seen is when you come out of lockdown the market recovers pretty quickly.&rdquo;

NAB said that it still expects house prices to lift at a faster rate than unit prices, which have been more impacted in major cities by slowing population growth due to international border closures amid the pandemic.

Hobart dwellings were forecast to record the biggest price growth by the year’s end, with property values to rise 23.5 per cent.



jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sydney to achieve highest mainland dwelling price growth in 2021: NAB

The trend across the whole of Australia at the moment is for big apartments, as property buyers accept the future of a more work-from-home focused lifestyle.&nbsp;

And Dibcorp&#39;s&nbsp;latest Newstead apartment development, Bide, is making sure it gives as much to its residents as it can without them leaving the Longland Street building.

Bide, a verb meaning to&nbsp;dwell or reside, comprises 89 apartments across the building, with demand high for the&nbsp;three-bedroom apartment, priced from&nbsp;$950,000. Not bad&nbsp;given the 121 sqm floorplate, the&nbsp;location - just three kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, dress circle address, and the overall designs and landscaping by&nbsp;Twohill &amp; James, Wiltshire Stevens Architecture and Lat27.

The trio have made the building as liveable as possible, with buyers having the ability to customise the apartments, which are slated for completion in early 2023. There&#39;s plenty of other upgrade options, from floor and curtains to kitchen fittings and appliances.

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They will bring the outside in, with&nbsp;floor-to-ceiling glazing opening to balconies with lush landscaping.

The resident amenity is also focused around lifestyle and wellbeing. There&#39;s a 600 sqm&nbsp;lush garden, known as Bide Gardens, which will feature private cabanas and barbecue facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163984]

&quot;Bide embodies the belief that the spaces we inhabit are essential to a balanced life. It centres around the wellness of the occupier and how the space can compliment their lives,&quot; Dibcorp suggest.

&quot;Recent times have seen the world adapt to a new way of life. The effects of this new normality have transcended into our personal lives, our work, and the economy at large.

&quot;One market that has greatly benefited from this change is the Brisbane property market. As investors from around the nation turn their eyes up north, Brisbane is now being recognised for what it is; a seemingly undervalued, and historically overlooked market.&quot;

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The resident amenity is also focused around lifestyle and wellbeing. There's a 600 sqm lush garden, known as Bide Gardens, which will feature private cabanas and barbecue facilities

How Newstead's newest apartment development Bide is targeting the downsizer

The boutique Lutwyche apartment development Bloom on Wesley in Brisbane&#39;s north&nbsp;has proved a hit with downsizer and professionals, with only 20 per cent of apartments left to sell.

Just three-bedroom apartments remain in the Wesley Street block of 36, which start&nbsp;from $720,000. The two-bedroom apartments sold out at the start of the year.

Ramy Raymond, the managing director of Raise Projects who are developing and building the apartment project,&nbsp;says the three-bedroom apartments have resonated with buyers due to their size, position, and the fact they are pet friendly.

Raymond says despite construction at a late stage, with completion expected at the start of 2022, buyers are still customizing their apartments, which he says buyers value in this day and age.

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The location of the development has been a plus for buyers, set near shopping precincts,&nbsp;public transport, and Kedron Brook Parkland&rsquo;s walking and bike paths.

&ldquo;The combination of the resort-style rooftop, boutique exclusivity and being near great shopping, dining, services and transport means that Bloom on Wesley offers unrivalled value for our buyers to live without compromise, whether they are re-sizing or downsizing,&quot; Raymond says.

&ldquo;With property commentators suggesting that prices will surge for three-bedroom, two car space apartments located five to 10km of the CBD, due to the upward pressure from the housing market, Bloom on Wesley represents a great opportunity for owner-occupiers and investors right now.&quot;

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Only seven apartments remain. The three-bedroom apartments range in size from 123 sqm up to 207 sqm, and are priced from $720,000 up to $860,000.

Raise are planning a high-end apartment development at Teneriffe, dubbed Verdis on Wyandra.&nbsp;

Just three-bedroom apartments remain in the Wesley Street block of 36, which start from $720,000

Downsizers and professionals take Brisbane's Bloom on Wesley apartments to 80% sold

The ASX-listed developer Mirvac has secured a sell-out of its Tulloch House apartment development, part of their wider $1.2 billion&nbsp;masterplan alongside Eagle Farm Racecourse in Brisbane&#39;s Ascot.

The 84 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses in Tulloch House sold for between $450,000 to over $2 million. There has been $18 million worth of sales in 2021.

Construction&nbsp;is well advanced,&nbsp;with the eight-level building&nbsp;recently topping out,&nbsp;with work being finalised on the interior joinery fit-out, balconies and the expansive roof terrace.

The apartments feature panoramic views north across the 50 hectare green space of the heritage racecourse and expansive views to the Brisbane city skyline to the south.

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Residents are expected to move in at the end of 2021.

Ascot Green is part of Brisbane Racing Club&rsquo;s $1.2 billion masterplan redevelopment of Eagle Farm, which will include apartments, commercial offices, dining, services and a range of entertainment options.

Mirvac has started taking registrations of interest ahead of the launch of the third building in Ascot Green, anticipated to launch either later this year or early next.

Mirvac Head of Residential Stuart Penklis said its reputation as a highly desirable place to live had driven demand for the final apartments in Tulloch House.

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&ldquo;While all Tulloch House apartments have now been secured, we have continued to field interest from those wanting a place in the community, prompting us to expedite the timeline for our next chapter of Ascot Green,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;We are in the design phase and working to bring this release to the market as soon as possible. While the finer details are being finalised, it will follow in the footsteps of our first two stages, Ascot House and Tulloch House, delivering high quality apartments to this one-of-a-kind location.&rdquo;

Penklis said&nbsp;the rare opportunity to live close to the Brisbane CBD and next to 50 hectares of green open space appealed to buyers.

&ldquo;This is a unique location that can&rsquo;t be replicated elsewhere in the city,&rdquo; he said.

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&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve found the opportunity to live with so much green space at the doorstep has been a significant drawcard for buyers, including young professionals, families and downsizers.

&ldquo;As the first residential project of its kind on a racecourse in Australia, we have the opportunity to set the bar for this style of development and have paid careful attention to embracing the historic elements of the site, with the masonry brickwork carrying through the design.

&ldquo;The upcoming building will continue to reflect its surrounds, with a new take on fa&ccedil;ade, interiors and apartment layouts that will deliver a first for the precinct, benefiting the residents who call these truly remarkable apartments home.&rdquo;

Mirvac fast-tracks Eagle Farm Racecourse community following sell-out of Tulloch House, Ascot apartments

New Farm is set for an architecturally modern boutique apartment development, continuing the luxury downsizer trend in the inner Brisbane riverfront suburb.

The latest development at 25 Harcourt Street will see two early 1960s apartment blocks demolished and five apartments designed by Tim Stewart Architects in landscaping by Forme Landscape Architects built in its place.

J.J.K. Properties, directed by the Melbourne-based developer John and James Kaias, are behind the development. The brother&rsquo;s are directors at Abcor, the engineering firm founded by their father Greg. It&#39;s not the Kaias&#39; first development in Brisbane. They are also&nbsp;building a 45-level office tower in the Brisbane CBD.

The seven storey building will have five apartments levels. There will be two two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom apartments.

The first level apartment has wrap around landscaping with its own private pool and fire put area. Each apartment has a large outdoor area with an outdoor kitchen and dining space.

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The aim is for a &#39;skyhome&#39; typology, according to the assessment report submitted by URBIS, with each apartment occupying the full floor of the building.

&quot;This provides a level of amenity commensurate with that of a house, with large living areas and no shared common walls with neighbouring apartments.&nbsp;

&quot;The proposal represents a contemporary residential offer that provides housing choice and diversity in terms of dwelling style and density (delivering a premium, luxury housing product), whilst considering the surrounding built form and character. The development capitalises on Brisbane&rsquo;s subtropical climate by creating functional private terrace and rooftop terrace space to promote the use of outdoor space. - the development application by Urbis says.

The apartments are designed to provide a &lsquo;skyhome&rsquo; typology with each apartment occupying the full floor of the building. This provides a level of amenity commensurate with that of a house, with large living areas and no shared common walls with neighbouring apartments.&nbsp;

The&nbsp;development site adjoins the heritage-listed Ermabrae, built in the 1900s, to the north, and Merillon Flats to the east.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The aim is for a 'skyhome' typology, according to the assessment report submitted by URBIS


Melbourne developer targets luxury downsizer in boutique New Farm apartment development

The auction of a Skytower, Brisbane City trophy apartment was postponed due to the extension of the Queensland lockdown.

The auction had been scheduled for Saturday but will now be on July 17 through Tom Kralikas at North South Real Estate Brisbane.

The postponement came as Saturday was included in the lockdown.

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CoreLogic reported a 27 percent success rate from the 11 Brisbane apartment auction results which were advised.

Nationally there were 530 results across all the capital cities with a 67 percent success rate and a $737,000 median price.

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Apartment 6201 Sky Tower was the amalgamation of two units creating a total area of 210 sq m.

There are three bedrooms with built-in wardrobes and ensuites.

There are four car spaces with the 6201/222 Margaret Street, Brisbane City offering.

The building comes with three gyms and three pools.

The auction of apartment 6201 has been postponed to July 17

jchancellor

Skytower, Brisbane City trophy apartment auction postponed due to weekend lockdown

Crown Group are on the look out for apartment development sites, as the Sydney headquartered developer looks to bulk up its apartment development pipeline for the next five to 10 years.

They&#39;re not limiting their search to opportunities just in the Harbour capital however, with&nbsp;Crown Group Chairman and chief executive Iwan Sunito suggesting they are also looking in Melbourne and Brisbane.

&ldquo;While the international border remains closed, growth will be hampered significantly,&quot; Sunito said, adding that the hampered growth is why they are looking at development deals.

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&ldquo;The market is more realistic than three to five years ago as foreign groups and state-owned enterprises have left the market.&nbsp;

&ldquo;The market contracted due to the Government&rsquo;s policy on foreign buyers having to pay double the stamp duty as well as difficulty in finding access to funding.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;Covid-19 and the shutdown of the international border also dramatically impacted Australia&rsquo;s residential apartment market, where foreign buyers used to make up at least 50 per cent of purchasers,&rdquo; Sunito noted.&nbsp;

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Despite the international border remaining closed, Crown Group remains confident in the future, based on initiatives such as government stimulus packages such as Jobkeeper which has buoyed Australia&rsquo;s economy.&nbsp;

Sunito compares the stimulus supply offered by the Australian government as similar to the US.

&ldquo;Property prices have risen in the US in the last 12 months, which is not dissimilar to Sydney,&rdquo; Sunito noted.&nbsp;

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&ldquo;There is such a shortfall of city apartments. The first home buyer grant really only impacts the house and land market due to the price point. It&rsquo;s barely making an impact in the apartment market as apartments in the inner city are upwards of $1 million.&rdquo;&nbsp;

&ldquo;The city will experience a crisis of supply which will in turn push the price growth even further in inner city apartment developments,&rdquo; Sunito said.

Crown are currently marketing two inner city Sydney projects, the luxury Waterfall by Crown at Waterloo, completed in late 2019 shortly before COVID hit, and the nearby Mastery by Crown which will be Australia&#39;s first Japanese-themed community.

Designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma in collaboration with&nbsp;Koichi Takada&nbsp;Architects and Silvester Fuller, the masterplanned community will have five&nbsp;uniquely designed and distinct residential buildings positioned above a 2,175&nbsp;sqm&nbsp;retail precinct which will home&nbsp;27 stores and a new&nbsp;Japanese eat street.

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“While the international border remains closed, growth will be hampered significantly," Sunito said

Crown Group look to expand apartment development pipeline, weighing up opportunities in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne 

The ASX-listed national developer Mirvac have sold over half of the apartments in their $180 million Newstead apartment tower Quay.

Quay is one of the two approved apartment building&#39;s in Mirvac&#39;s $1 billion Waterfront Newstead community on Skyring Terrace on the Brisbane River.

Mirvac had just been running a&nbsp;registration&#39;s of interest&nbsp;campaign, with public release starting in the next few weeks.

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Quay will comprise 143 one,&nbsp;two and three bedroom apartments priced from $382,000 across its 25 levels. The expansive three and four bedroom sky pavilions start from $2,925,000.

The striking building, designed by Mirvac&#39;s award-winning in-house design team, will feature lush landscaping climbing the tower by landscape architect RPS.

Mirvac Head of Residential Stuart Penklis said there had been significant demand for the premium riverside apartments, which were located on a prime site at 57 Skyring Terrace, at the gateway to the Waterfront Newstead community.

&ldquo;To have the apartments be so well received is a huge achievement and testament to the design and quality of Quay,&rdquo; Penklis said.

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&ldquo;From the moment we started work on the sales centre we were inundated with enquiry and had a waiting-list of buyers, with sales predominately made to those already living in the local area or who had purchased or lived in a Mirvac community previously.

&ldquo;We expect the high interest will continue now the apartments are officially released, with demand for premium property in Brisbane remaining extremely strong &ndash; particularly for lifestyle destinations such as Quay, which enjoys a position alongside the Brisbane River, just two kilometres from the CBD and surrounded by vibrant caf&eacute;s, restaurants and retail.&rdquo;

Quay features just seven apartments per level to level 19, and three from level 20 and above.

Mirvac Design and RPS combined to create the lush landscaping up the facade of the building, turning the balconies in to an elevated backyard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90553 project_image_fid=147606]

Quay will home one of Brisbane&rsquo;s largest rooftop entertaining areas, complete with a 25 metre infinity edge pool. There will also have be&nbsp;a shared penthouse style kitchen and dining space with views across the Brisbane River and a ground-level wellness retreat, featuring a yoga studio.

Quay features just seven apartments per level to 19, and three from level 20 and above, ensuring each enjoys generous proportions inside, with large sculptured balconies and lush planting providing an &lsquo;elevated backyard&rsquo;.

High ceilings and expansive glass frontages draw in natural light and ventilation, while framing panoramic views of the Brisbane River and city skyline vistas.

Quay follows on from Mirvac&rsquo;s highly successful previous stages at Waterfront Newstead &ndash; Pier, Park and Unison.

The strong sales have prompted Mirvac to bring forward planning for the next apartment release at Waterfront Newstead, with the developer now taking registrations of interest from prospective purchasers.

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Quay is one of the two approved apartment building's in Mirvac's $1 billion Waterfront Newstead community on Skyring Terrace on the Brisbane River

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