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.

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"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.

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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.

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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

Centuria

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Jason Huljich, co-chief of ASX-listed property entity Centuria Capital, has listed his Elizabeth Bay waterfront apartment.
There has been mixed McGrath messaging to buyers in its initial spruiking.
Some have been advised it has $4.5 million hopes while others have been informed expect to pay between $4.5 million and $4.75 million.
The three-bedroom harbour front Billiard Avenue apartment last traded in 2006 for $2.23 million, and at $1.42 million in 2001.
It has 113 sqm internal space plus just 13 sqm balcony space.
It is in The Palms complex.
There is a June 13 onsite auction. ​
The last apartment to sell in the complex was at $3.815 million last June with the top floor two bedroom having previously sold at $1.25 million in 2000.
It had 230 sqm of indoor/outdoor space.
Huljich is reportedly interested in moving into a house.
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Jason Huljich lists Elizabeth Bay apartment

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A Centuria subsidiary, Centuria Property Funds No.2 Limited (CPF2L), has entered into an agreement to acquire 348 Edward Street in Brisbane for $89 million.
348 Edward Street is a prominent office building located in the Brisbane CBD, 60 metres from Central Railway Station and near surrounding amenity including the Brisbane Private Hospital, Brisbane Magistrate Court and the regenerated Queen Street Mall precinct. 
The asset has a 5.1 year WALE4 and is 89% occupied.
“This transaction grows our unlisted fund opportunities to $216 million in FY20 year to date," Jason Huljich, Joint CEO of Centuria, said.
"Additionally, Centuria’s listed office REIT, CMA, has recently committed to acquire two A grade office assets for $380 million and successfully completed a $206 million institutional placement and entitlement offer on 19 September 2019 supporting these purchases."
Centuria’s listed industrial REIT, CIP, has also settled four recent acquisitions for a total consideration of around $80 million since 30 June.
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Centuria acquires $89 million Edward Street, Brisbane office building

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Centuria Property Services, the asset management arm of Centuria Capital Group, has signed an implementation agreement with parking technology startup BaseUp.
Vacant parking bays in and around commercial properties owned by Centuria’s listed and unlisted property funds will be made available via the BaseUp app, where tenants can participate and register for short-term parking solutions.
BaseUp is a provider of smart parking technology to large tenants and landlords in the commercial property market.
BaseUp provides solutions that solve one of commercial real estate’s biggest problems – underutilised parking and a lack of flexibility. 
Matthew McQueen, Portfolio Manager at Centuria, commented: "After a highly successful pilot period at two of our assets, we have now signed up for all our property residents. 
"Those at the forefront of the commercial property market – office properties in particular – are increasingly focusing on the well-being of a building’s users, a significant aspect of which is convenience of commuting and end-of-trip."
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Centuria signs agreement with parking technology provider BaseUp

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Centuria, now Australia’s largest office-specific REIT, has grown their portfolio to $1.4 billion, according to their half year financial results.
They also appointed Grant Nichols as new fund manager of CMA.
Mr Nichols, is an experienced fund manager with over 15 years of experience in Australian office markets.
He said “In the last year, CMA delivered 10.9% return on equity to unitholders, and is now Australia’s largest sector-specific listed office REIT"
“Having made CMA a pure-play in office assets, Centuria has continued to improve the quality of the portfolio – its delivery on strategy is evident in its strong returns to unitholders.”
“With a high-quality, fit-for purpose portfolio 89% weighted to the eastern seaboard and an average building age of 15.5 years, CMA is well positioned to capitalise on tenants seeking to expand or reposition across Australian metropolitan markets,” he concluded.
Over the past half year Centuria acquired a $521 million portfolio of four office assets which took the portfolio to $1.4 billion  (from $930.5 million at FY18) and made them Australia’s largest office-specific REIT.
They divested their remaining industrial assets, at "premium-to-book values".
Centuria retained high occupancy of 98.8% overall, with 100% occupancy throughout their WA, SA, VIC and NSW properties.
Over 14,500 sqm of net lettable area (6.7% of the portfolio NLA) was leased across sixteen transactions during the past half year – extending the WALE to 4.3 years.
The fund returned a statutory profit of $14.7 million in 1H19 and funds from operations of $26.5 million. 
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Centuria now Australia’s largest office-specific REIT with $1.4 billion portfolio

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Centuria Metropolitan REIT has acquired a portfolio from Hines Global REIT comprising four major properties, in the second largest commercial property transaction of the year.
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The deal involves buying three office properties, and taking a 25 percent interest in a fourth.
The purchased buildings include 818 Bourke Street in Melbourne's Docklands (above), 825 Ann Street in Brisbane's Fortitude Valley (below), and 100 Brookes Street, also in Fortitude Valley.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/10/Ann%20St.jpg" alt="">
The 25 percent interest is in 465 Victoria Street in Sydney's Chatswood. The remaining 75 percent of the building will be purchased by the Lederer Group
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Centuria now manages over $300 million of direct real estate assets on behalf of the Lederer Group.
Centuria Capital Limited will contribute $20 million to the purchase price of the Chatswood block.
CMA will pay a total net price of $500.9 million, reflecting a 3.8% discount to the total independent valuations of $520.9 million, and an initial yield of 6.3%.
The acquisition will be partially funded by a fully underwritten equity raising of $276 million at an issue price of $2.43 cents per CMA security.
<div>
Jason Huljich, Centuria’s Head of Real Estate and Funds Management, said the properties are complementary to CMA’s existing portfolio and in line with its strategy of acquiring fit-for-purpose, quality metropolitan assets. 
“Once this transaction is complete, CMA will be more than 84% exposed to key East Coast markets by portfolio value.
“This means a better growth profile for the fund going forward, particularly when you consider that 93% of leases are subject to fixed rental reviews of an average of 3.7% p.a.”,1 he said. 
Commenting on the total acquisition and capital raising – which cumulatively represents Centuria Capital Group’s largest single direct transaction and the second largest commercial transaction in Australia this year, Huljich said the activity is evidence of the Fund’s repositioning strategy in action.
“Our aim has been to create a high-quality, pure-play A-REIT, with the kind of strong property metrics that can deliver returns for our investors in the form of consistent, attractive distributions. Over the four years since its inception, CMA has grown into the country’s second largest pure-play office fund, and this transaction will increase its portfolio by 56% to approximately $1.4 billion across 23 properties. 
“This transaction is further evidence of our team’s ability to identify and deliver quality properties in a competitive market.
“We are pleased to announce this major transaction for CMA – not only because it improves the overall quality of the portfolio, but because it ultimately repositions CMA as a major office A-REIT, poised to deliver strong returns to investors.” Mr Huljich said.
 
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Centuria Metropolitan buys $520 million property portfolio from Hines Global

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Centuria Capital Group's subsidiary Centuria Property Funds Limited has exchanged contracts on a Geelong office block for $115.25 million.
The deal caps off an active 1H FY18, with $655 million in property assets bought.
The <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/60-brougham-street-geelong-vic-3220-2013883351" target="_blank">Brougham Street property</a> will be acquired by the Centuria Geelong Office Fund, a new single asset unlisted property fund which will be launched in February 2018.
On settlement, total Centuria assets under management (AUM) will be $4.5 billion. 
The A-Grade building is 100% occupied, with 94% of its income underpinned by a long-term lease to AAA-rated Victorian State Government entity, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC).
Centuria’s property funds management business is led by Jason Huljich. 
With the new Geelong fund enjoying a 10-plus year lease to a State Government tenant and a starting distribution of 7% p/a paid monthly, Huljich expects strong demand from Centuria’s investors.
“The building is centrally located in the thriving regional city of Geelong, which is benefiting from the relocation of a number of Government agencies, including WorkSafe and the National Disability Insurance Agency. 
“The acquisition complements our investment philosophy and offers reliable, long term income for investors.”
 
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Centuria acquires $115 million Geelong building, growing AUM to $4.5 billion

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Property fund manager Centuria Capital Group’s operating earnings per share dropped 31 percent to 10.3 cents per share while funds under management more than doubled to $4.2 billion for the full year ended June 30.
It said the results were in line with its guidance.
Centuria also announced distribution of 7.5 cents per share for the financial year and up 43% on FY16 results. 
Since financial year 16, Centuria has purchased 10 properties for $721 million across the listed and unlisted businesses, with $517 million acquired by unlisted funds.
Centuria said total shareholder returns were 24% and the group expects its operating EPS to grow nearly 5% during FY18.
Group CEO John McBain highlighted the acquisition of the $1.4 billion 360 Capital real estate platform.
“This acquisition was a very significant contribution to growth in funds under management and our consequent increase in scale and market presence. The result has been a step-change for Centuria Capital, bringing our business to scale and this activity should enable near-term ASX 300 inclusion.”
“In addition, the majority of 360 Capital’s funds were listed funds which were highly complementary to our platform which was previously skewed toward unlisted property funds,” McBain said.
He said the group’s unlisted business "had a bumper year", growing by 106% and has property assets under management worth $1.6 billion. It made the largest purchase in the group’s history – the Zenith office tower in Chatswood for $279 million in a joint venture with global investor BlackRock.
Last month, Centuria Property Funds said its listed office fund, Centuria Metropolitan REIT (ASX: CMA), has bought three commercial properties in Perth and Melbourne for a total of $150 million. 
In Perth, Centuria acquired two new commercial assets: <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-wa-perth-502267250" target="_blank">The Hatch Building</a> at 144 Sterling Street (above), and 42-46 Colin Street, for a total of $91.8 million. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/23/Centuria.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/23/Centuria.png" alt="">
During the year, Centuria merged its two office Real Estate Investment Trusts: Centuria Metropolitan REIT (CMA) and Centuria Urban REIT (CUA); and acquired the management of Centuria Industrial REIT (CIP).
As a result, CIP is now Australia’s largest pure rent-collecting REIT, with a market capitalisation of $563 million. 
Metropolitan office REIT CMA has a market capitalisation of $420 million.
Meanwhile, Centuria Property Funds has announced two leasing deals for its listed industrial trust, Centuria Industrial REIT.
“We are very pleased with the performance of both funds this year. The merger of CMA and CUA resulted in a larger and more efficient fund, which went on to acquire a further $150 million in assets since the merger,” said McBain.
The company will look to grow both funds with asset acquisitions, it said.
The Centuria Diversified Property Fund (CDPF) was also launched this year. It is an open-ended, unlisted diversified property fund which invests in office trusts.
McBain said the group would use its balance sheet strength to accelerate growth across its listed and unlisted property businesses.
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Centuria boss says unlisted funds had bumper year

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Centuria Property Funds has announced two leasing deals for its listed industrial trust, Centuria Industrial REIT.
The trust has renewed leases with AWH, Australia’s largest wool-handling operation, for CIP’s existing asset at <a href="https://centuria.com.au/industrial-reit/property-portfolio/310-spearwood-ave-bibra-lake-wa/" target="_blank">310 Spearwood Avenue, Bibra Lake, WA</a> (44,296sqm) (below), and for the recently acquired adjoining asset at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property-profile/lot-14-sudlow-road-bibra-lake-wa-6163" target="_blank">Lot 14 Sudlow Road</a> (39,485sqm) (picture above).   
The term will come into effect after the settlement of Lot 14 Sudlow Road in September.
<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/2017/08/23/Centuria2.jpg" alt="">
 
AWH is the largest tenant in CIP’s portfolio and occupies 11% of the trust’s gross leasable area (GLA).
The deal caps off a busy period since Centuria took control of CIP in January that resulted in an expansion of its portfolio, which increased in size to $957 sqm.
The period also saw a refinancing CIP’s entire bank debt facilities and leasing activity across 19% of the portfolio.
CIP Trust manager, Ross Lees, said it was Australia’s largest industrial leasing transaction for 2017.   
“This deal will extend AWH’s tenure by an average of 5.6 years across both properties, significantly reducing CIP’s FY20 lease expiry profile, which is great news for CIP investors,” he said.
AWH is one of Australia’s leading logistics and warehousing specialists, occupying more than 650,000 sqm.
The company provides storage, handling, freight forwarding and inventory management services for import, export and domestic distribution, and services over 55% of the nation’s traded wools, added Lees.
“We are active managers and a relationship-based business,” said Lees.
“By maintaining close relationships with tenants and investors, we are aware of their needs and able to swiftly take advantage of market opportunities for the benefit of both.”
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Centuria says in largest industrial leasing deal of 2017

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Centuria Property Funds has unconditionally exchanged on the sale of its commercial office property located at 90 Crown Street, Wollongong.
The gross sale price was $43.9 million to a Melbourne based funds management group.
It sets a new record for the Wollongong commercial property market achieving rate per square of $4,786.
The asset was purchased in 2005 for $30.675 million.
According to Jason Huljich, CEO of Unlisted Property at Centuria, Wollongong has recently received significant interest from investors as yields continue to compress in traditional core markets.
“Although much of Centuria’s investment focus is on major metropolitan and fringe markets, primarily in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, where buyer demand has been expanding significantly, we are also seeing strong demand within the core regional markets such as Wollongong,” said Mr Huljich.
“90 Crown Street is well located within the heart of the Wollongong CBD, with excellent access to retail, entertainment and transport links. As one of only a limited number of office developments in the market designed to attract corporate and government occupiers, this landmark property attracted substantial interest from investors.
“Ongoing upgrades to the Wollongong city centre, the expansion of the Wollongong Public Hospital and its popularity for both business and lifestyle have also driven buyer demand,” he said.
Mr Huljich said interest in the sales campaign and the record rate per square metre were validations of Centuria’s active management philosophy.
“The property is fully leased, primarily to Government tenants and delivers an estimated annual income of $3,636,018, which equates to a passing yield of 8.3 percent.
“While managing the asset, Centuria undertook various works to improve the building’s sustainability, achieving a NABERS rating of 4.5 stars and over 70% of the leases were reset prior to taking the asset to market.
"Development approval for additional office and retail space was also secured, which contributed to achieving an excellent result for investors,” he said.
The sale was managed by Knight Frank’s Richard Garland and Jonathan Vaughan, in collaboration with MMJ Real Estate -Wollongong's Geoff Jones, Travis Machan and Tim Jones.
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