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.

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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.

[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

Colliers International

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A Spotlight Group-owned development site at Box Hill has been sold to the CBD Development Group for almost $50 million.
The 4,268sqm property at 851 Whitehorse Road (above and below), on the corner of Wellington Road, has a permit in place for three residential towers, up to 37 levels high with 517 apartments and a 150-room hotel.
Colliers International’s Development site sales team managed the international expressions-of-interest campaign, which attracted multiple offers from local and offshore parties.
Highlighting the continued development capital flowing into the suburbs of Melbourne, the deal reaffirms the underlying confidence in the suburban apartment market from the Asian origin developer community in Melbourne, agent Bryson Cameron said.
“The campaign was highly competitive and the vendor received multiple offers from mainland China, Hong Kong, Sydney and Melbourne developers, ultimately selling to the locally based CBD Development group.”
Mr Cameron said several of Melbourne’s eastern suburbs, such as Box Hill and Glen Waverley, were considered “international destinations of choice” among some of the world’s most prominent developers.
“This is due to the strong fundamentals of our apartment market, including healthy migration, easy access to education, retail and transport, and a local demographic that understands apartment living,” he said.
The sale price represents almost $100,000 per apartment for high-density land outside the CBD.
The deal follows the successful sale Colliers International negotiated for the “air rights” land above The Glen Shopping Centre, which sold for close to $60million.
The proposed development also has a three-tower design for 539 apartments above the future extended shopping centre.
<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/2017/07/18/851%20Whitehorse%20Road%20Box%20Hill%20night%20render.jpg" alt="">
“The Glen was a different style of campaign, where we ran an off-market invite-only process due to the complexities of selling future unbuilt air rights land,” Mr Hobart said.
“The sale price reflects more than $105,000 per apartment and was purchased by the Golden Age Group, which will deliver a luxury apartment offering on top of the shopping centre.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Box Hill development site fetches almost $50 million

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St Leonards continues to experience office erosion as stock continues to be earmarked for residential conversion, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“In the last six months, St Leonard’s vacancy has increased from 8.5 percent to 10.5 percent in January 2017 as tenants relocate to other metro markets.
"As previously mentioned, Jacobs relocated from 100 Christie Street to North Sydney, adding a contraction of just over 7,000sqm, Flexirent downsized 4,100sqm and 2UE vacated 170 Pacific Highway handing back 1,094sqm of space.
"These tenant moves contributed to a total six month net absorption of -22,878sqm,” the report stated.
Despite vacancy increases there is a strong prospect of a stronger residential market Colliers says.
“18,489sqm was withdrawn in the six months to January 2017 with a further 30,000sqm due to come offline in 2017, 18,500sqm of which will be redeveloped into a mixed use precinct (88 Christie Street).
"The next supply cycle will commence in 2019 with Royal North Shore Hospital fully committing to a 36,000sqm office development as well as Mirvac’s 472 Pacific Highway (4,600sqm).
"Mooted schemes are Gore Hill Technology Park (46,000sqm) and 18-20 Atchison Street (2,300sqm).
"Despite the increase in vacancy, the prospect of a stronger residential market encroaching on existing buildings and development space saw net face rents increase 21.5 per cent and incentives fall two percentage points in the last 12 months, with positive net effective rental growth expected to continue over the remainder of 2017,” the report advised.
A 144 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-501981146">St Leonards</a> (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 67 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-502235646">St Leonards</a> (below) has been listed for $425,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/St%20Leonards-2.jpg" alt="">
A 96 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-502146674">51/6-8 Herbert Street</a>, St Leonards (below) was sold in April.
<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/2017/05/02/516-8%20Herbert%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 4605 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-st+leonards-501551463">2 Chandos Street</a>, St Leonards (below) was sold in April.
<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/2017/05/02/2%20Chandos%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Office erosion in St Leonards continues: Colliers

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Office vacancy in Sydney's Chatswood is expected to increase throughout 2017 as a number of whole floor opportunities enter the market, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
It noted Leighton vacated 799 Pacific Highway and Lendlease will be relocating to Barangaroo from The Zenith.
Vacancy has already increased from 6.6 per cent to 7.7 per cent in the six months to January 2017 with negative net absorption of -3,310 sqm.
"As a result we expect incentives to remain stable throughout 2017,” the report stated.
A Grade property rents have increased slightly over the last six months, Colliers says.
“In the six months to March 2017 average A Grade net face rents increased marginally at 1.5 per cent settling at $510 per sqm, while incentives increased from 24 per cent to 25 per cent as a result of increased vacancy.
"We expect to see owners splitting floors and offering speculative fit-outs to drive demand in the sub 500 sqm range as heightened competition remains for whole floor space. The Zenith is already seeing success with this strategy,” the report said.
A 86 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-chatswood-502363334">47 Neridah Street</a>, Chatswood (above) has been listed for $825,000.
Similarly, a boutique freehold office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-chatswood-502252494">754 Pacific Highway</a>, Chatswood (below) has been listed for sale.
<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/2017/05/02/754%20Pacific%20Highway.jpg" alt="">
A 247 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-chatswood-502192670">2/9 Railway Street</a>, Chatswood (below) was recently sold in April.
<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/2017/05/02/29%20Railway%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 118 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-chatswood-502174514">Suite 603, 7 Help Street</a>, Chatswood was recently sold in April.
<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/2017/05/02/Suite%20603%207%20Help%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Office vacancy in Sydney's Chatswood expected to increase: Colliers

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Investment in new developments, amenity and infrastructure have bolstered rents in North Sydney despite vacancy increasing marginally, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
B Grade net face rents increased an impressive 17.8 percent in the year to March 2017, the highest in Colliers Edge records (since 2005).
"A five per cent reduction in incentives, falling to 20 percent, further drove a significant uplift in net effective rents, increasing 29.6 percent over the last 12 months,” the report stated.
A Grade office property rents continue to remain stable Colliers says.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.41%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.41%20am.jpg" alt="">
“Meanwhile, A Grade net face rents remained stable, with the primary driver of an 11.3 percent increase in net effective rents being a 5 percentage point reduction in incentives over the last 12 months to 23 percent.
"Positive net effective rental growth is projected to continue as office supply remains constrained due to hotel and residential conversions, coupled with the Sydney Metro line office acquisitions.
"Approx. 10,000sqm has already been withdrawn with a further 3,000sqm this year to be replaced with the rail line, and a potential 22,000sqm withdrawn for hotel and residential projects by 2019,” the report advised.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.48%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.48%20am.jpg" alt="">
Colliers also says that furthermore, tenants from Milsons Point, McMahons Point and St Leonards have also been displaced due to a number of residential conversions.
“This has further benefitted the North Sydney office market, resulting in an uplift in tenant demand and competition for office space.
"In addition to infrastructure developments, the improvement in amenity is also expected to underpin North Sydney’s strong rental growth moving forward, as it offers a good value proposition to displaced tenants from the CBD due to a large number of withdrawals.
"The upgrade of Brett Whitely Place, a new dining precinct located in Greenwood Plaza at 101 Miller, as well as Woolworths opening in 100 Miller Street are expected to assist in solidifying North Sydney as an extension of the CBD,” the report commented.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.56%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%2010.08.56%20am.jpg" alt="">
Total market vacancy increased marginally from seven per cent to 7.1 percent according to the PCA Colliers says.
“A and B Grade vacancy increased but were offset by a substantial reduction within premium stock, from 41.2 percent to 25.2 percent vacancy.
"Looking forward, total market vacancy is projected to fall over the next 12 months to 6.5 per cent due to the aforementioned conversion and infrastructure projects along Miller, Walker, Denison, Arthur and Mount Streets, assuming these displaced tenants will relocate within North Sydney,” the report stated.
The next two years will see the CBD office market tightening according to Colliers.
“Over the next two years, the Sydney CBD market will tighten further driving positive rental growth in that market, and as a result more tenants will consider North Sydney as a relatively affordable alternative.
"North Sydney experienced strong net absorption (27,068sqm) for the six months to January 2017 as tenants relocated from outside market boundaries.
"According to the PCA 19,000sqm of net tenant demand was attributed to tenants relocating from other markets to the recently completed 177 Pacific Highway.
"Jacobs relocated from St Leonards, Leighton Holdings consolidated from 11 buildings across Sydney and Vodafone consolidated from their existing North Sydney &amp; Chatswood offices.
"Goodman Fielder also relocated and expanded their footprint within North Sydney from Macquarie Park to secure 3,700sqm in 40 Mount Street.
"In addition, Channel 9 has officially announced its move to North Sydney from Willoughby, occupying Winten Group’s 1 Denison (60,000sqm) scheduled for completion in early 2020, further proving the returned strength of North Sydney’s office market.
"As a general theme to suburban markets, what will be Channel 9’s old building in Willoughby was sold to Hong Kong-based property investors Euro Property with the intention of developing apartments,” the report commented.
A 68 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-north+sydney-502383166">Suite 4, 172 Pacific Highway</a>, North Sydney (above) has been listed for over $675,000.
Similarly a 140 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-north+sydney-502184706">12 Ridge Street</a>, North Sydney (below) has been listed for $2.5 million.
<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/2017/05/02/12%20Ridge%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A 125 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-north+sydney-502361178" target="_blank">Suite 102, 161 Walker Street</a>, North Sydney (below) was sold in April this year for $740,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/Suite%20102%20161%20Walker%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 309 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-north+sydney-502197646" target="_blank">L1, 73 Walker Street</a>, North Sydney (below) was sold in March this year for $1.75 million.
<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/2017/05/02/L1%2073%20Walker%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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North Sydney office rents bolstered by investments in the market: Colliers

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In calendar year 2016, metro investment volumes as a proportion of total Sydney CBD and metro sales were 57 percent with $3.9 billion in transaction volumes recorded compared to the CBD’s $2.9 billion, according to Colliers International's latest Metro Office report.
"On a 10 year average, metro sales make up 37 percent of combined CBD and metro sales each year, and for 2017 year to date, metro sales volumes have already reached 43 per cent,” the report stated.
Scarcity of investment supply and strong demand drove down metro yields during 2016 Colliers says.
“We expect A Grade metro yields to compress further as offshore groups continue to seek metro office assets to deploy capital, as investment-grade stock within the CBD remains limited.
"Market fundamentals for vendors continue to strengthen, with the Sydney-wide trend of constrained supply placing upward pressure on net effective rents,” the report advised.
Suburban peripheral markets are especially impacted by residential encroachment, heightening tenant activity as displaced tenants source alternative accommodation according to Colliers.
“Furthermore, investment in infrastructure and amenity has contributed to an uplift in rent and competition for space, especially within core metro markets such as Parramatta and North Sydney.
"Average A Grade yields for Sydney Metro have tightened by 47bps over the past 12 months to average 6.79 percent in March 2017, and the secondary market has experienced a tightening of 56bps to average a current yield of 7.74 percent.
"Taking into consideration market fundamentals and rental outlook, the purchasers of secondary metro assets will most likely be opportunistic, seeking value add opportunities,” the report stated.
Further compression of metro/office property is likely, Colliers says.
“Furthermore, the spread of 5.01 percent over the risk free rate for secondary assets suggests further significant compression is likely," it advised.
Metro office assets is still appealing to investors Colliers states.
"While metro markets have enjoyed above-average yield compression over the last six months, metro office assets still present an appealing case to investors, Coliers suggested, as the yield premium to CBD assets is currently 120bps.
"The recent offering in North Sydney of 116 Miller Street and 173 Pacific Highway (opposite the future Victoria Cross metro station) and Dexus’ Phillip Street development in Parramatta (pre-committed by the Department of Education for a 12 year term) should see the yield spread between CBD and metro assets narrow,” the report advised.
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Scarce supply of Sydney investment despite strong demand driving down metro yields: Colliers

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Tenant contraction in Macquarie Park is not expected to continue, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“While Macquarie Park has experienced tenant contraction over the last six months, we don’t expect this to continue as tenants continue to be priced out of North Sydney and Chatswood leading them to consider Macquarie Park as a viable alternative.
"After a decade of next to no net effective rental growth over the last six months, net effective rents have increased 9.8 per cent and 13.6 per cent for A and B Grade respectively.
"Underpinning current and future rental growth is the ongoing residential rezoning taking place in peripheral suburban markets such as Epping and Frenchs Forest, as displaced tenants seek alternative accommodation within Macquarie Park,” the report stated.
Colliers says that Macquarie Park is able to outcompete Chatswood for office tenants.
“Despite Chatswood being seen as a direct competitor for office tenants, the floor plates offered are restricted by size and Macquarie Park is able to accommodate tenants looking for larger, more efficient floor plates.
"The next two years should see 90,000sqm of office space supplied at 45 Waterloo Street (25,000sqm is precommitted to the NSW Government) and we expect this to satisfy demand for larger floor plate users that are unable to secure such space in denser metro markets,” the report advised.
Macquarie Park is expected to be the centre of office organisations Colliers says.
“Furthermore, Macquarie Park is expected to become a primarily residential and office centre as organisations begin to shift their industrial function to dedicated western and south western industrial markets.
"According to the PCA, vacancy increased from 7.1 per cent to 7.5 per cent in the six months to January 2017 with net absorption registering -7,475sqm for the period,” the report stated.
A 90 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-macquarie+park-502164638">32 Dehli Road</a>, Macquarie Park (above) has been listed for $575,000.
Similarly a 214 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-pymble-502349046">Suite 11 19 Bridge Street</a>, Pymble (below) has been listed for $800,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/Suite%2011%2019%20Bridge%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Tenant contraction in Macquarie Park expected to not continue: Colliers

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Tech firms in Sydney's City Fringe are the common tenants for the office market, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“Creative industries (and increasingly, tech firms) continue to underpin the City Fringe office market, with these tenant types seeking out space in character/heritage buildings in suburbs such as Pyrmont, Ultimo &amp; Surry Hills.
"Creative industry tenants have been able to collaborate with owners regarding specific fit-out options and in some cases minor refurbishments have taken place – such as exposing ceilings - in order to add a contemporary and modern feel,” the report stated.
However, Colliers says supply is constrained and competition and demand is rising.
“We are seeing consistent demand and increasing competition, as supply is extremely constrained.
"Increased rental levels and a judgement call by owners on the duration of favourable conditions in the residential market are seeing more consideration of retaining properties in office use, rather than the prevalent change of use to residential which has dominated the market in the last few years,” the report warned.
Colliers says that the expansion of the digital and creative industries of late has further constrained supply, leading to a substantial increase in rents over the last 12 months.
“A Grade net face and net effective rents have grown 19.3 per cent and 30.7 per cent respectively with B Grade increasing 9.4 per cent and 19.5 per cent respectively.
"As competition for space has increased, incentives have declined, with A Grade falling three percentage points to 19 per cent and B Grade falling five percentage points to 16 per cent.
"Few examples of incentives in the 20 per cent plus bracket now exist, and we forecast more downward pressure on incentives, with examples already emerging of sub 10 per cent in some cases
"Google has extended their lease to 2021 at Workplace 6 in Pyrmont and confirmed take up of an additional 6,000 sqm of ex-Accenture space in the same building.
"This comes as recent news of Google abandoning plans to move to White Bay Power Station, citing infrastructure shortfalls,” the report stated.
Low vacancy rates is resulting in limited whole floor or building reports, Colliers says.
“Due to low vacancy rates, there is limited whole floor or whole building evidence to report.
"However, we note that our fringe leasing team is currently finalising over 5,000 sqm of leasing transactions in this precinct contributing to the low vacancy environment,” the report commented.
"A 88 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-surry+hills-500469903">88 Foveaux Street</a>, Surry Hills (above) has been listed for $920,000.
"Similarly, an 82 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-ultimo-502352182">101/330 Wattle Street</a>, Ultimo (below) has been listed for $390,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/101330%20Wattle%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A 29 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-surry+hills-502265830">214/400-410 Elizabeth Street</a>, Surry Hills (below) was recently sold in March this year.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/214400-410%20Elizabeth%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 136 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-pyrmont-502249426">95/26-32 Pirrama Road</a>, Pyrmont (below) was recently sold in April this year for $1.5 million.
<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/2017/05/02/9526-32%20Pirrama%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Tech firms are the common office tenants in Sydney's city fringes: Colliers

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From a demand perspective, Melbourne's Inner East is just as highly sought after as the City Fringe market, however, the opportunities for tenants to move around are limited, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“While our vacancy rate has increased in the six months to March 2017, from 4.15 per cent to 6.3 per cent, a number of the larger tenancies that have recently become vacant are currently in Heads of Agreement (HOA) stage, thus we expect the vacancy rate to quickly fall down again to 5.9 per cent by September 2017, and further to 4.7 per cent by this time next year," said the report.
One of the larger vacancies to be leased in late 2016 was 2 Luton Lane (above) to Swinburne University. This was a 5,660 sqm deal which was completed before the space even became vacant, hence is not reflected in our net absorption figures, Colliers said.
"Orora also renewed 4,000 sqm of space at 109 Burwood Road, Hawthorn. Again, this is a large tenant commitment to the Inner East market that is not reflected in net absorption,” the report stated.
Rents in the Inner East continue to increase despite increasing vacancy rates, Colliers says.
“Rents continued to increase in the Inner East, despite the increase in the vacancy rate, as the underlying demand not reflected in the figures has pushed landlords to increase face rents and reduce incentives.
"Face rents grew by 5.6 per cent in the year to March 2017, and coupled with a decline in average incentives from 18 per cent to 15 per cent, the overall increase in effective rents was 9.1 per cent.
"We are forecasting very similar (nine per cent) effective rental growth over the next 12 months, as continued tenant demand and no supply constrain tenant options.
"Despite good tenant demand in the Inner East, there is only one development in the pipeline for this precinct, following the completion of Vicinity’s new 13,650 sqm building adjacent to the shopping centre,” the report said.
Colliers says that net absorption will remain below averages in the long term.
A new development at 139-155 Camberwell Rd, Camberwell is expected to add 8,000 sqm of supply in late 2018.
Most development sites in the Inner East are still proposed as residential or student accommodation projects.
"For this reason, we expect that net absorption will remain below long-term averages over the next few years, as tenants are forced to look to other markets for accommodation.
"This is the continuation of a recent trend we have been seeing in the Inner East, which in the five years to 2015 absorbed an average of 15,000 sqm of space each year,” the report says.
Yields have compressed similar to the City Fringe market in Melbourne, Colliers says.
Since 2015, only 3,000 sqm of space has been absorbed on average in this precinct, a stark illustration of supply constraints impacting tenant activity.
A total of $240 million of commercial property was transacted over 2016, with Charter Hall’s $140.5 million purchase of a 50 per cent interest in 800 Toorak Rd, Hawthorn East accounting for the bulk of the transaction volume figure.
"Yields have compressed in line with the City Fringe market, at 100bps to average six per cent for A Grade assets as at March 2017,” the report stated.
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Melbourne's Inner East office market has a supply squeeze: Colliers

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Vacancy rate in Melbourne's Outer East region remains elevated and above 10 percent, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“While the Outer East has always been the third pillar of Melbourne’s metro office market, the precinct has now decoupled completely from the City Fringe and Inner East in terms of tenant activity and vacancy," it said.
The vacancy rate remains elevated at 10.7 per cent, a minor increase from 10.4 per cent six months earlier. 
Long-term vacancy rate is relatively high, Colliers said.
The Outer East has traditionally been a supply driven market, in complete contrast to the City Fringe and Inner East, so the average long term vacancy rate is relatively high, at 9.6 per cent.
The supply cycle continues, although at slightly more subdued levels than previous years. Since 2008, the Outer East has added an average of 25,000 sqm of new supply each year.
"We expect that over the year to March 2018, a further 23,000 sqm of office space will be added – the majority of which (14,000 sqm) is at Caribbean Gardens Business Park in Scoresby,” the report noted.
Demand in the Outer East continues to remain subdued, particularly in the secondary grade market, where upgrades to older stock are generally needed for a deal to occur.
“Face rents in the Outer East have remained steady over the year to March 2017, at an average of $308 per sqm for A Grade space."
Incentives are elevated compared to the remainder of the Melbourne Metro market, at 27 per cent.
"We expect these to remain at these levels for the two year forecast period."
There were $168 million worth of sales in the Outer East in 2016.
In Box Hill, there were two sales totalling $50 million, and both of these sales (826 – 830 Whitehorse Rd and 9 – 11 Prospect St) were to developers, the report said.
South East market sees very limited tenant activity in the last half of 2016 according to Colliers.
“The South East market saw very limited tenant activity through the last half of 2016.
Net absorption was -6,300 sqm, even in a climate where supply increased by 4,000 sqm.
Vacancy in the South East is at record high levels, reaching 13.13 per cent in March 2017, against a long-term average of 6.75 per cent.
Despite the high vacancy, incentives are relatively low, at 21 per cent.
This is more due to the nature of owners in the South East, who are predominately local privates.
Given the low demand environment in the South East, and the continued preference of Melbourne’s metropolitan office tenants to locate in the City Fringe, Inner East and Outer East, a significant yield premium can be found on South East office investments.
Average yields for A Grade stock currently sit at eight per cent, well above the Melbourne metro average of 7.09 per cent,” the report stated.
A 1107 sqm commercial office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-clayton-502305650">Level 2, 195 Wellington Road</a>, Clayton (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly, the CubeOne, a 88 sqm to 1080 sqm office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-narre+warren-502158830">55 Victor Crescent</a>, Narre Warren (below) has been listed from $409,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/55%20Victor%20Crescent.jpg" alt="">
A 139 sqm office building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-clayton-502309858">C1/756 Blackburn Road</a>, Clayton (below) was recently sold in April this year.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/C1756%20Blackburn%20Road.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a 208 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-springvale-502258678">97 Springvale Road</a>, Springvale (below) was recently sold in March this year for $800,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/02/97%20Springvale%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Melbourne's outer east vacancy rate remains above 10 percent: Colliers

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Investment activity in Adelaide has reached new high as vacancy falls in suburban markets, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“There is strong demand for office assets from investors, with a record $103.87 million ($5 million+) worth of office transactions recorded in 2016," it said.
This was the highest level of investment in metro markets on record.
The largest sale was the GP plus Clinic, 16 Playford Blvd, Elizabeth, which sold for $42 million in November 2016.
This building had a 13.8 year lease term remaining and sold on a yield of 5.8 percent to Australian AREIT.
"Prime quality assets with long lease terms are in high demand across all office markets which has resulted in a tightening in yields for the suburban markets,” the report stated.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.41%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.41%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Colliers says that the Adelaide office market is still offering investors higher returns than some other office markets and this is driving demand.
“It is the lack of stock being offered to the market which is likely to restrict sales volumes going into 2017. New supply in the Fringe market remains limited, with most of the supply which has been added over the last 12 months being stock which has been withdrawn, refurbished and then offered back to the market."
The most recent refurbishment completed was 8 Greenhill Road, Wayville which was completed in late 2016, the report said.
This has contributed to an increase in vacancy to 11.3 percent as at January, says Colliers.
“Also contributing to the increase in vacancy is the move of Grant Thornton into the Adelaide CBD market, which resulted in -1,260 sqm of net absorption in the last six months.
This brought total annual net absorption for the fringe market to -8,126 sqm as at January 2017.
Rents in the fringe eased over the last 12 months, with Grade A effective rents falling by 4.8 percent.
This was mainly due to an easing of the top end of rents in the fringe market.
Incentives have however remained stable with a wide range of 15 to 25 percent.
There are two buildings currently under refurbishment and due to be completed in the third quarter of 2017.
These are 127-128 Greenhill Road and 100 Greenhill Road, which will add 2,742 sqm to the Fringe market and is likely to result in an increase in vacancy in the second half of 2017, said the report.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.49%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.49%20pm.jpg" alt="">
The fringe market has seen 8,433 sqm of withdrawals over the last two years, but most of these buildings have been refurbished rather than redeveloped.
“There has been a change in the parking restrictions along Greenhill Road, with clearways in place until 10 am and then from 3 pm. This restricts client parking and is likely to restrict demand in the future.
"Several of the buildings in the fringe market do not have disability access and therefore the first and above levels can be more difficult to lease."
When most of these buildings were built in the 1980s, there was one space allocated per 25 sqm, however, now the ratios demanded are more likely to be one space to 12 to 15 sqm, the report said.
This area has also been rezoned to allow for higher building heights and mixed use including residential.
Colliers expects that over the next five years the fringe market will see more withdrawals.
“Over the next five years we expect the Fringe market to see more withdrawals which will see new developments with a change of use. With vacancy forecast to increase for 12.7 percent over the next 12 months it is likely that rental growth in the fringe market will be limited over the next 12 months."
Incentives are expected to remain stable within the current range of 15 to 25 percent, it said.
The suburban market has seen vacancy tighten to 6.5 percent.
This is down from 7.7 percent in September 2016.
All markets saw a fall in vacancy, with the east seeing vacancy fall to 4.8 percent and the south to 1.8 percent.
New supply in the suburban market remains restrained.
The only major construction is the Port Centre at Port Adelaide.
This 3,238 sqm building is currently under construction and is due to complete in 2018.
This building is fully committed to Australian Customs on completion, said the report.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.59%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<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/2017/05/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-02%20at%202.04.59%20pm.jpg" alt="">
There are several smaller projects in the pipeline, but most are seeking pre-commitment prior to construction commencing.
Colliers says that the suburban market is very much needs based and therefore tends to have lower vacancy as there is limited speculative development in this market.
“Rental growth in the suburban market has remained stable over the last 12 months with a rental range of $265 to $335 per sqm net. Incentives have also remained stable, within a range of 15 to 25 percent."
With vacancy falling it is more likely that incentives may begin to fall which will lead to growth in net effective rents, said the report.
An example would be 1284 South Road, Tonsley (above) which has been leased.
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