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

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<div>
Sunland managing director Sahba Abedian and wife Nava are selling their penthouse in the luxury Abian Residences that Sunland developed.
The couple, who moved in once the building was completed in 2017 from their Newstead base, custom fitted the 325 sqm Alice Street penthouse.
They paid $3,448,750.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/10/21/abedian%203.png" alt="">
It features opulent laser-cut Italian Travertine, Calacatta natural stone and the finest European inclusions. It even has a control room with built in safe.
Two art galleries flow from the main entrance to the main living and dining wing that opens to a timber decked alfresco.
The master suite in its own wing has an ensuite and custom dressing room, while a guest wing comprises an ensuite, walk in wardrobe and media room. private library space.
<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/2019/10/21/Abedian%202%20jpg.jpg" alt="">
Place Woolloongabba agent James McKinley has the listing in the tightly held building where prices have peaked at $4.95 million.
Sahba Abedian has been managing director of Sunland since 2001. He joined three years earlier as the legal counsel and company secretary.
</div>
<div>This article was first published in the Weekend Australian.</div>
 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Sunland boss Sahba Abedian lists Brisbane skyhome

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Brisbane apartment prices are expected to perform better than houses in the medium term, according to Moody's Analytics.
They forecast the Greater Brisbane area's apartment values to increase by 5.6% in 2020 after a 0.7% decline in 2019. 
Moody's said growth in Brisbane apartment market has been crimped by high supply in recent years.
Between 2013 and 2016 apartment approvals outnumbered housing approvals on an average three to one.
Recently approvals have been more aligned which is set to drive apartment prices. 
<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/2019/6/24/Brisbane%20Apartments%20Recovery%202.jpg" alt="">
The increase is forecast to be led by Ipswich and the Moreton Bay North areas which are expected to see prices increase over eight percent in 2020.
"Apartment prices are expected to perform better than house prices for Brisbane (and Greater Brisbane) in the medium term", Moody's advised.
"We forecast home values to underperform throughout the forecast period, while apartment values are expected to reach a trough in 2018-2019 followed by a pronounced recovery in 2020 
Moody's 2021 forecast for Brisbane apartments is similar to how they expect it to perform in 2020, however there are areas of concern in the inner city areas.
Ipswich and the Moreton Bay regions will remain strong, however Moody's believe there will be declines up to 5.4% for apartments in the inner city. 
<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/2019/6/24/Brisbane%20Apartments%20recovery.jpg" alt="">
 
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Brisbane’s apartment market forecast to rise 5.6% in 2020: Moody's Analytics

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The Brisbane apartment market will continues to stabilise, a new report from JLL said.
The firm’s Australia Residential Research - April 2019 said that as supply and demand recalibrate, the Inner Brisbane apartment market will continue to stabilise throughout 2019 and into 2020.
“Inner Brisbane’s apartment supply has been steadily declining since 2016,” it said.
“In 2018, supply was around 27% below that peak.”
Supply forecasts for 2019 are estimated at 40% below 2018, and less than half of the 2016 peak.
“As poor sentiment and apprehensions around oversupply receded, the medium-term outlook for Brisbane’s inner city apartments is increasingly bright,” JLL said.
“While credit conditions and the Federal election will keep activity subdued in the short-term, a rapidly improving supply/demand balance should see Brisbane lead the next residential cycle.”
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2014.jpg" alt=""> 
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2015.jpg" alt="">
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2016.jpg" alt="">
Underlying demand will continue to be boosted by robust population growth, particularly net interstate migration.
“Increased infrastructure investment and an improving labour market should both support the local economy,” the report said.
“Steady population growth will continue to support underlying demand and aid the absorption of excess apartment stock.”
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2017.jpg" alt="">
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2018.jpg" alt="">
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2019.jpg" alt="">
While development conditions remain challenging, supply is expected to remain subdued for several years.
“Developers are unlikely to pursue high density projects over the next few years,” JLL said.
“Instead, they are more likely to focus on ‘less-is-more’, luxury and boutique developments.”
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2020.jpg" alt="">
<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/2019/5/31/New%20Project%2021.jpg" alt="">
Apartment values and rents are expected to stabilise as the market rebalances into 2020.
“Negative price growth continues, but the pace of decline is decelerating,” the report said.
“The rental market is showing strong signs of improvement, with vacancy and rents stabilising.”
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Brisbane apartment market stabilising as demand and supply approach balance: JLL 

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The Gallery House development in Brisbane’s Northshore Hamilton reported strong sales in the June quarter with 31 sales.
The results put it top of the pile in a recent Urbis Essentials report, with the nest new development recording 12 sales in the same period.
Gallery House features 319 one, two, three and four bedroom apartments across the 20-level Gallery House One and 19-level Gallery House Two towers.
Construction on both towers at the project is being lead by building contractor Multiplex.
<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/2018/9/13/Gallery%20House%202.jpg" alt="">
Brookfield Residential Properties’ Managing Director, Lee Butterworth said more than $173 million of luxury apartments have now sold at Gallery House.
"The opportunities to secure such generously-sized luxury riverfront apartments in the current market are extremely limited, and as a result, we are seeing increasing enquiry from buyers wanting to secure their own private oasis close to the city centre," he said.
"Sales to date have predominately been to owner-occupiers, including empty nesters looking to make the move from a home to an apartment and professionals wanting to be close to the city centre."
Two bedroom apartments are prices from $565,000; three-bedroom from $865,000; and four bedroom from $1,195,000.
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Brisbane development Gallery House reports strong sales quarter

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Purchasers should be ready to take advantage of counter-cyclical opportunities, says property developer Don O'Rorke, citing the Brisbane apartment market as a good opportunity to buy.
"There are multiple indicators that Brisbane's apartment market is at the bottom of its cycle and the good news is that there are already signs of the market moving upwards," he said.
"I encourage buyers to think counter-cyclically and act now before they miss the bottom of the market. Those who wait  for news that the recovery is in full swing will find that it is  too late as prices are expected to rebound.
"We are already seeing a surge in enquiry from local owner-occupiers for our Spire Residences, as the focus is changing from price-led enquiry to a stronger focus on quality and lifestyle from buyers who are taking a longer-term view."
The executive chairman of Consolidated Properties Group was speaking after a recent report from JLL highlighted Brisbane was edging towards an upswing, at the same time other markets are still cooling.  
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/6/28/cycle.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
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The JLL Apartment Market report places the Brisbane apartment market as around a trough, meaning apartment values and rents are expected to start moving back into positive territory over the coming years.
Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth have been charted in a mature growth or downturn phase with continued downward pressure on pricing expected.
Leigh Warner, JLL national director of residential research, says values in the Greater Brisbane apartment market only decreased by 1.8 per cent in the 12 months to December 2017, which is the slowest rate of decline in some years and the market has shown further signs of stabilisation in early-2018. 
By comparison, prices in Melbourne and Sydney continued to grow through 2017, but have slowed sharply in 2018 to date.
"Brisbane has had a relatively soft landing. While sale rates have declined, pricing never grew to the same extent as it did in Sydney and Melbourne over recent years, which has limited the downside in Brisbane," he said. 
“So now as the larger southern markets face an inevitable slowing, Brisbane is already much closer to coming out the other side.
"The stabilisation of the market reflects both demand and supply factors. 
A recovery in local economic and population growth, along with strong infrastructure spending, have all boosted the demand side. On the supply side, tighter lending conditions have meant that new project starts have fallen sharply and the number of apartments completed will fall sharply this year and next.”
Testament to this reduction in supply, apartment approvals fell by 30.8 per cent in the 12 months to January 2018.
"Our view is that while market fundamentals may remain challenging in Brisbane in the short term, the medium-term outlook over a two-three year horizon is now quite good,” said Mr Warner.
"While rental yields in Brisbane are hovering around 4.8 per cent, and remain favourable for investors compared to Sydney (3.8 per cent) and Melbourne (4 per cent), we see this recovery being led predominantly by owner-occupiers who are willing to pay a premium for superior location and finishes."
 
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Counter-cycling Brisbane apartments a good buy: Don O'Rorke

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The latest Urbis data on new apartment supply indicates the Brisbane market registered a big drop in apartment approvals during the first quarter.
It was down from 2686 in the previous quarter to just 306 new approved apartments.
The number of new Brisbane apartment projects launched plummeted to just 12 in 2017 compared with 57 in 2016.
Urbis director of property economics and research, Mark Dawson, said it was "clear the market is self-regulating".
"Though launches have slowed. the appetite for quality new apartment product is still there, and with the right mix of product, price and marketing, developers are able to successfully launch new developments to the public" he told Fairfax Media.
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Debt investment manager MaxCap Group recently took over Invesco's debt in AMP's Skytower apartment project in Brisbane.
The US funds giant Invesco lent about $160 million in 2016 to develop the city's next tallest tower where the first stage of apartments is currently settling.
The tower will rise 90 storeys with 1128 apartments.
MaxCap's newly appointed investment director for NSW, QLD, ACT Eddie Law said the lender had confidence in the Brisbane apartment market.
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"From a supply perspective, we are seeing a number of projects in the pipeline being pushed back or put on hold.
"New apartment completions appear to have peaked last year, with a reduced forward pipeline helping to stabilise apartment prices."
MaxCap's Eddie Law said the price of Brisbane apartments also remained affordable relative to other cities.
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<div>"Average median apartment prices in Brisbane are 80 per cent more affordable than Sydney apartments and 37 per cent more affordable than Melbourne apartments."</div>
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Brisbane new apartment approvals see big drop in supply

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I've written a lot here about Queensland's record apartment construction boom, which is now rebalancing. See <a href="http://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2017/10/spirit-in-sky" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2018/02/filling-up" target="_blank">here</a>, for example. 
The number of attached dwellings constructed through this cycle will exceed even the post-recession boom of the early 1990s. 
The number of detached house starts is now rising steadily, but for attached dwellings new commencements are falling fast, especially for the higher-density projects.
And the official numbers are six to nine months old.  
A quick drive around central Brisbane reveals that many projects have been stalled or mothballed, and staged releases pushed out. 
Developers simply can't shift many of them, with unusually 'flexible' terms being offered to prospective buyers in some cases. 
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg09ZgLw5Ww/WrdC6jxd5GI/AAAAAAAApGI/QOTtowImShEDYsVAlG0pkYKzK4srDyOcQCLcBGAs/s1600/QLD.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rg09ZgLw5Ww/WrdC6jxd5GI/AAAAAAAApGI/QOTtowImShEDYsVAlG0pkYKzK4srDyOcQCLcBGAs/s640/QLD.jpg" width="640" height="390" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1356"></a>
Below annual dwelling starts for the state are mapped against the estimated change in the resident population. 
I deliberately haven't messed around with the axes on the chart as some are inclined to do.
After all, this cycle has been characterised by record volumes of high-rise apartments, which might house fewer persons per unit on average previously (while there is arguably the issue of Chinese investors and vacant apartments to account for). 
The numbers show total dwelling starts falling fast in 2017, as they needed to. 
Queensland's net overseas immigration and therefore population growth pulled back hard after the peak of resources construction, leading to a dwelling stock overhang, in a similar vein to Western Australia. 
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyszNFjMdGg/WrdCT_USiBI/AAAAAAAApF4/4K2K3u130jAvs7df950CNpjJjU_GvsVgACLcBGAs/s1600/A2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MyszNFjMdGg/WrdCT_USiBI/AAAAAAAApF4/4K2K3u130jAvs7df950CNpjJjU_GvsVgACLcBGAs/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="392" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1347"></a>
Fortunately for local developers, Queensland has become the state with the <a href="http://petewargent.blogspot.com.au/2018/03/where-why-population-growth-is" target="_blank">greatest internal population flows in the country</a>, which is helping to stabilise the ship.
They'll be looking to offload their final apartments quick-sharp and put the shutters up for the remainder of this cycle. 
As ever, lots of variations are apparent when drilling down to the regional and suburb level. 
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.
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Queensland's internal population flows stabilising the CBD apartment ship: Pete Wargent

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<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
The Reed Brisbane development group is giving buyers five years to settle if they buy any of the 20 remaining apartments in the 228-unit Belise project in Brisbane's Bowen Hills.
His deferred settlement marketing campaign was recognition of the difficult financing environment for investors, director Richard Ash said.
Buyers need to pay a deposit – of $60,000 or more – before they can take possession of a unit.
They will also pay monthly lease fees for five years, when the developer would hand over the title.
It will also sell the remaining units at prices ranging from about $400,000 up to $1 million unconditionally for cash at a lower price than those buying on a deferred basis.
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Reed has paid back its debts on the project, which completed last year, but has changed its offer.
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"The world has changed," he told Fairfax Media.
"There is no doubt the availability of debt for home owner-occupiers and investors has changed.
"Purchasers will find it easier to refinance or get finance in five years' time."
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Unit prices were likely to rise during the next five years, Mr Ash said.
"We think there may be some downside left but probably not a lot," he said.
"We're very comfortable that in the next three to five years there is upside in those prices."
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<div class="cq-article-content-paras section">
The deferred sales weren't a sign of distress on the part of the developer, fellow Reed director Ric Peterson said.
Property Observer wrote in 2014 that with 80% of the apartments sold, Belise would soon see a tower crane on the site.
<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/2018/3/1/belise3.jpg" alt="">
The $120 million<a href="https://www.belise.com.au/" target="_blank"> Belise project</a> had completion expectations for March 2016.
In 2016 the remaining in the development had prices start from $477,000. 
They had been advertised as "cash flow positive investments" from "year one". This would be for the after-tax outcome for a one-bedroom plus study with a 90% lend for assumed household income buyer of $80,000 to $180,000, at a $471,000 purchase price.
Breaking this down for a one-bedroom plus study shows that to get a substantial after tax cash flow, you would be renting it out furnished ($15,000 packages are available from the developer) or the positive cash flow is $1.63 per week after tax in year one. Adding the furniture package alters the numbers by slightly increasing the rent and providing more depreciation deductions. Interestingly, repairs and maintenance are kept equal for both equations. They make 5% annual capital growth rate assumptions. Body corporate is expected at $3,650 for year one and property management is estimated at 8% plus GST. A furnished apartment is projected as bringing in an after-tax positive cash flow of $84.20, according to their equations.
It was a slow start for the project, having launched in October 2010, but in November 2013 was seeing traction.
The median unit price in Bowen Hills peaked at $498,000 several years ago, according to RP Data.
 
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Five year delayed settlements offered at Brisbane's Belise development

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The apartment within the inner city Brisbane precinct of Auchenflower has been sold by mortgagees.
Set in the 2005-built Linear building, the newly painted and re-carpeted third floor apartment was marketed as offering executive living with river views.
It fetched<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-qld-auchenflower-126919778" target="_blank"> $800,000</a> when sold by Franzwa Van Vuuren from Brisbane West Real Estate.
The developers had sold it in 2006 at $1,150,000. 
The 10/8 Dunmore Terrace apartment, with access via Lang Parade, came with three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and two car tandem basement parking.
The 40 sqm balcony has river views.
According to CoreLogic, the suburb's median unit price sits at $425,000.
There were two sales in Linear last year with a three bedroom sub-penthouse fetching $1,275,000, having previously sold at $1.3 million in 2008.
The developers has sold it off the plan in 2003 at $915,000. 
There was a $485,000 two bedroom sale which had sold at $440,000 in 2006.
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Inner city Auchenflower apartment in Brisbane sold by mortgagee

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<div>It's been a remarkable few years for dwelling construction in Queensland, especially for high-rise apartments, but the boom times for development are drawing to a close. </div>
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<div>The amplitude of this cycle has been on a par with Queensland's dwelling construction boom of 1994.</div>
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<div>Back then about a quarter of dwellings built were multi-units, but the ratio has twice as great this time around, accounting for more than half of the total by 2015. </div>
 
<div class="separator"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7MhuU4n8Ggc/WfWzn4xJomI/AAAAAAAAmyA/YvrztJStUVwwkVCRjAa43TjEd-qySEObwCLcBGAs/s640/QLD.jpg" width="640" height="394" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="1348"></div>
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<div>With lenders now tightening deposit requirements for apartment buyers across a swathe of inner Brisbane postcodes, as well as developer insolvencies peppering the newswires, there's no doubt that dwellings starts for apartments will continue to drop precipitously from the latest reported numbers. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the positive side, the most timely population estimates suggest that both interstate and net overseas migration are swinging sharply in Queensland's favour, so this should help to mop up the excesses over time. </div>
 
<div class="separator"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tX9Jeh29NMU/WfWzl4nOREI/AAAAAAAAmx8/TR_pFjdiQs4ngNieF-QEkNeK3RRgei4ZQCEwYBhgL/s640/QLD2.jpg" width="640" height="390" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="1360"></div>
 Tenants are centralising and moving in too, slowly but surely. 
<div>Still, it's clearly going to be a renter's market in 2018, and, if my inbox is any kind of worthy indicator, there's going to be some material discounting on unsold new apartment stock. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Investors with the means should keep a watchful eye out for bargains next year. </div>
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