The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Eastern Suburbs

The well-known Sydney property investor and developer, Vaughan Blank, has submitted $9.4 million plans to transform the old Westpac building&nbsp;on Bondi Beach&#39;s exclusive Hall Street in to a mixed-use precinct.

He&#39;ll be creating a new shop-top housing building, with retail premises on the ground floor of 26-32 Hall Street, and 15 apartments above.

BANG Architecture handled the design of the building, just a stones throw from the famous sand, which Blank bought for $17 million earlier this year.

Architect Wieger Meijer, who heads up BANG, said in the design statement submitted to Waverley Council, that&nbsp;Bondi Beach has seen some impressive developments come to fruition in the past decade.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="784" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st_bondi_beach_2.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The desired future character can be seen by the overall high design standards, which on its turn has improved the face of Bondi significantly,&quot;&nbsp;Meijer said.

&quot;The trend of these high design standards have been a key driver in the design process of the proposed development at 26-32 Hall Street.&quot;

Meijer described the overall style as &quot;eclectic&quot;, however noted that&nbsp;all developments are tied together with an overall Australian Beach style which has influenced them.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="861" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st._bondi_beach.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The introduction of the proposal adds to the developing image of Bondi and adds a lifestyle component to it,&quot; Meijer added.

The development, which sits next to the former post office building which has also been converted to apartments, will comprise six one-bedroom apartments, two two-bedroom apartments and seven three-bedroom apartments.

Meijer says the proposal also reflects current market demands in relation to typologies and living patterns currently established in the local area.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

Vaughan Blank has been a keen investor&nbsp;in Sydney&#39; eastern suburbs apartment market for a number of years, having previously spent over $33 million on a block of Art Deco flats in Edgecliff in 2017, which at the time was highest price paid at auction for a residential property in Australia.

Blank has adjoining future developments sites on the Bondi&#39;s O&#39;Brien Street.&nbsp;

Earlier this year $8 million plans were submitted for a <a href="/news/nsw/new-apartments-heading-to-bondi-beachs-hall-street">new&nbsp;arcade precinct and apartment development</a> just up the road across&nbsp;31, 35 and 37 Hall Street.

Behind the heritage building and facade which will remain at the street front will be a new arcade and 25 apartments, designed by&nbsp;Brian Meyerson, of the&nbsp;Surry Hills-based&nbsp;MHNDU.

Vaughan Blank set for apartment development on Bondi Beach's Hall Street

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This summer has earmarked a trend in Australians keen to invest in a holiday home to call their own.

“With the costs of renting a holiday home soaring thanks to huge local demand, combined with record low interest rates, we’re experiencing a unique situation where it may actually be more cost effective to buy rather than regularly rent a holiday home”, said David Hancock, senior financial planner at Montara Wealth.

To assist in your search, Urban takes a look at six stunning coastal properties to consider in NSW. 
 

1. Lighthouse, Dee Why 
Address: 9-17 Howard Avenue, Dee Why NSW 2099 
Two-bedroom apartments from $935,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6337]

Showcasing unobstructed panoramic views of the ocean, beach and lagoon, Lighthouse is Dee Why’s latest architectural landmark.

Delivered by Meriton, the development soars high above the surrounding streetscape, blending residential, retail and commercial in one dynamic location – ideal for downsizers or couples looking for a coastal investment property.

Built over four buildings, with two towers rising up to 17 storeys high, Lighthouse comprises of 351 apartments with a range of one, two and three-bedroom configurations, including dual-level residences. 
 

2. Kalypso, Tamarama 
Address: 63 Fletcher Street, Tamarama NSW 2026 
Apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6813]

For those seeking spectacular views of the stunning coastline, Kalypso provides the authentic coastal lifestyle amongst the unmatched beauty of Tamarama.

Delivered by DARE Property Group, Kalypso is inspired by the natural ﬂow of the ocean with a palette that echoes its surrounds of sand and surf.

Curated by Mim Design, Kalypso's curved walls and stone benchtops pay homage to the undulating waves close-by, with vast open spaces and large windows welcoming the sea breeze. 
 

3. Wavelength, Cronulla 
Address: 49-57 Gerrale Street, Cronulla NSW 2230 
Apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6071]

Iridium Development’s Wavelength captures the spirit of the coast with its undulating façade and rhythmic curves, designed by Architecture Urbaneia.

Making the ideal coastal home, the development is surrounded by water, and a foreshore park, fusing contemporary architecture and the coastal lifestyle.

Offering one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses, Wavelength delivers flowing interiors, open-plan layouts and meticulously designed bathrooms. 
 

4. Estelle, Bondi 
Address: 67-69 Penkivil Street, Bondi NSW 2026 
Apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7057]

Showcasing style, quality and privacy, Estelle is the Bondi’s latest coastal development by K2 Property Development Group.

Among its amenities include a landscaped common garden, alfresco entertaining and full-length balconies for year-round use.

Designed by MHN Design Union and Lawless &amp; Meyerson, this development boasts a boutique collection of 14 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with floor-to-ceiling glass sliding doors, soaring rakes ceilings and the coastal backdrop of the exclusive Eastern suburbs. 
 

5. Luna, Cronulla 
Address: 13 Arthur Avenue, Cronulla NSW 2230 
Apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29824]

Tucked away in a quiet beachfront cul-de-sac, Luna is only a short stroll from the central hub of bustling Cronulla.

Situated steps from the water’s edge, Luna provides everything at your doorstep, from gold courses, expansive parklands and magnificent beaches.

Delivered by Plank Developments and designed by Vic Lake Architects, Luna was designed with a timeless and sophisticated edge, enhancing its oceanfront position.

Among its amenities include alfresco living space, secure basement car parking and sun-drenched interiors. 
 

6. Soul, Cronulla 
Address: 131-133 Gerrale Street, Cronulla NSW 2230 
Apartment prices available upon request

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25138]

Located in Sydney’s southern beaches and just footsteps from the sands of Cronulla, Soul offers relaxed coastal living.

Boasting sweeping ocean views and outlooks in every direction, the development offers the ideal sanctuary from busy city living.

Soul’s two and three-bedroom residences deliver floor-to-ceiling windows and open-plan interiors.

Among the project’s features are modern designs, decadent finishes and, in the luxury penthouse, a private rooftop courtyard and a swimming pool.
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Urban takes a look at six stunning coastal properties to consider in NSW

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Wanting to extend summer? Check out six of NSW's best coastal apartment developments

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The prestige market in Sydney is spread across a number of regions including riverfront locations in the south and inner west, to large estates in The Hills, to large modern inner city apartments, to harbour side and beachside areas of the east and north.
Traditionally prestige properties were considered to be those with a value above $3 million, however in some areas this is now $5 million and above, the valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest report suggested.
It noted the prestige market has experienced significant growth over the past five years, however has experienced some softening of prices over the past six to twelve months, with some areas holding up better than others. A recent CoreLogic article indicated a 5.7% fall in the prices of the 25% most expensive properties in Sydney over the past 12 months.
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HTW consider the prestige market to be less dependent on affordability issues than other markets. 
Instead, the market is driven by global flows of wealth and a supply versus demand balance. It noted the factors that will help stimulate the Sydney prestige market include the Australian dollar, domestic and international share markets, business performance, business confidence, company profits, Chinese interest in trophy homes, buyer activity from expats and migration interest under the Significant and Premium Investor Visa Program.
The report did noted that rhe eastern suburbs prestige market has started 2018 fairly strongly, carrying over from what was considered a solidly performing 2017.
Good quality family homes in the $5 million to $10 million price range are the strongest sector of the prestige market. 
The harbourside suburbs of Bellevue Hill, Rose Bay, Woollahra, Double Bay, Dover Heights and Vaucluse and beachside suburbs such as Bronte, Tamarama and Clovelly have all seen steady numbers of prestige sales in the year to date.
Local high income families have been the typical buyers for these types of properties which is driving this sector. Vaucluse saw approximately 11 registered sales above $5 million in 2018 (as at 19 April) with two of these sales being above $10 million (source: PriceFinder, RP Data and Realestate.com.au.).
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The higher price points of $15 million plus, often referred to as trophy homes, have seen limited transactions and some market softening with extended selling periods. Vendor expectations have had to become more realistic to meet the market.
This is fairly similar with the prestige unit market with somewhat mixed results and limited transactions occurring in the $5 million plus category.
Buyers are becoming more cautious particularly in regard to those considered to be secondary prestige properties (busy road positions, steep sloping sites, etc). There are also an increasing proportion of prestige properties being sold off market though local agents.
Overall there are some mixed results within the eastern suburbs prestige market and the rest of 2018 is expected to see a continued stable market with some of the price points and property types experiencing some softening.
Some examples of recent prestige sales in the area include 148 Old South Head Road, Vaucluse, which sold in March for $8.2 million after 30 days on the market and 178 Hopetoun Avenue, Vaucluse, which sold in April for $17 million after 253 days on the market with original expectations in August 2017 of $22 million.
A Vaucluse brand new architecturally designed house over three levels with harbour views was sold on May 3 (pictured below).
Designed according to traditional Feng Shui principle, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-127494758" target="_blank">the 148 Old South Head Rd</a> house is graced with prestige appointments and finishes of the finest calibre.
The indoor features include five bedrooms, living/dining and family areas with balconies, home cinema and Miele marble kitchen.
The outdoor area comes with mosaic tiled pool, rooftop terrace with superb views and five car garage. 
Positioned on a 700 sqm block, it is opposite Christison Park and the iconic Macquarie Lighthouse. 
<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/2018/5/15/148%20OLD%20SOUTH%20HEAD%20ROAD.jpg" alt="">
Another Vaucluse seven bedroom harbourside house was sold in April (pictured below).
Architect designed by Michael Suttor less than 20 years ago, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-126089194" target="_blank">178 Hopetoun Avenue house</a> features light filled interiors and resort style living.
It comes with seven bedrooms, separate formal lounge and dining areas, and gourmet open plan kitchen.
Outdoor features include level garden, pool, and full tennis court.
It is located within a stroll to historic Watsons Bay and convenient to Rose Bay and Bondi Beach.
<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/2018/5/15/178%20hopetoun%20avenue.jpg" alt="">
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Some softening in prestige prices in Sydney's trophy home market

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The second half of 2019 has seen a resurgence in demand from investors seeking to sweep up some of the Eastern Suburb’s most prized retail properties. 
The negative portrayal of Sydney’s economic growth seems to have kick started a desire to purchase commercial and residential property across the Eastern Suburbs. With interest rates sitting at record lows (0.75%), investor focus is now being diverted towards the property market in the search of higher returns.
Amidst the growing concerns over the impact of online shopping on high-street retail as we enter 2020, ABS 2019 data reports show that in August 2019 online retail sales accounted for 6.2% of total retail trade, indicating a minimal retail market share. 
Over the past couple of months, renowned suburbs such as Bondi, Double Bay and Woollahra have witnessed record breaking property acquisitions. It is suburbs like these that are being regarded as the best spots to invest in.
The Eastern Suburbs of Sydney contain some of the best retail strips, and we have seen a trend of areas with high foot traffic and low vacancy being targeted.
Recent key retail freehold transactions include:
27-29 Knox Street in Double Bay sold for $9,830,000 representing a net initial yield of 1.76%.
261 Bondi Road sold for $3.75m this month reflecting a net initial yield of 4%.
10 Cross Street in Double Bay sold for $10.25m reflecting a record breaking yield of 1.59%
While demand for leased assets with medium to long-term income streams seems to be a key requirement, there has been no shortage in transactions of vacant retail freehold properties that demonstrate strong fundamentals. 
Even more recently, two vacant strip retail properties (146 &amp; 148 Queen Street in Woollahra) sold for $5.65m reflecting a building rate of $24,459sqm. Investors are now becoming more creative as purchasing retail in these coastal hubs is not simply about securing a long term income stream but also about redevelopment potential or conversion with the implementation of a new tenant.
With average prime retail yields hovering around the 4-5% mark in Eastern Sydney, there has been strong demand from yield-chasing investors who have faced continued yield compression in the office and industrial markets. Recent data shows that bricks &amp; mortar retailing IS still very important with August retail trade having the strongest lift in spending in six months equating to a rise of 2.6% year on year.
Growth in retail is not limited to freehold assets, retail strata properties have also been a new talking point.
Shop 4, 284 Bronte Road, Waverley and 126-128 Avoca Street in Randwick transacted at yields of 5.1% and 5.45% respectively.
This indicates that attention is being directed to less expensive areas of the Eastern Suburbs as investors look to capitalise on infrastructure improvements such as the Randwick Light Rail, which has driven demand for surrounding pockets to the traditionally popular and more expensive suburbs like Bondi.
Looking ahead to 2020, whilst there is some conjecture as to how much longer this cycle will last, recent transactions have created an unprecedented pricing uplift for well-located retail properties. It is expected that investors will continue to favour the commercial property market as the probability of further interest rate cuts is soon to become reality.
Ollie Ridley is an executive for the metropolitan sales team at Savills Australia
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

As Sydney’s temperature rises, so does demand for retail investment opportunities across the Eastern Suburbs: Savills

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The eastern suburbs peaked a little later than the general Sydney market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
However declines have now caught up with the greater Sydney market, with an 11% fall in the 12 months to April, according to Corelogic.
"At the lower end of the housing market, a recent sale in Botany of a 1900s, three-bedroom, one- bathroom semi-detached dwelling for $900,000 was more than 30% lower than when it sold for $1.3 million in August 2017," the valuation firm said.
The median house price in Botany was down 3.5% in the March quarter to $1.45 million, while the median unit price was down 2.4% over this time to $810,000, according to realestate.com.au data.
The report noted that the eastern suburbs prestige residential market was more resilient than the wider market in 2018, although there are definite signs that market has peaked as well.
The prestige suburb of Rose Bay experienced a 3.4% decline in its median house price in the March quarter to $3,646,500.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/rose%20bay%202.jpg" alt="">
Units fell even quicker with the median price down to $1,155,000, a drop of 7.6% over the quarter, realestate.com.au data says. 
A 124 square metre apartment in Rose Bay with double lock up garage was sold for $1.56 million in April. 
Set within a small block of four, the top floor apartment at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-rose+bay-130823222" target="_blank"> 4/1 Hamilton Street </a>(pictured above) comprises light-filled living/dining flowing to balcony, Smeg gas kitchen, three bedrooms with built-in and rear communal garden.
The location is just a short walk to Rose Bay village shops. 
"This doesn’t appear to be uniform across all suburbs though, with Bellevue Hill (0.8%) and Vaucluse (7.2%) showing increases in their median house prices during the March quarter," the valuation firm said. 
Despite this, activity in these suburbs has definitely eased with only 13 sales above $5 million in Bellevue Hill as at mid-May compared to 64 for all of 2018.
Vaucluse has had 10 sales compared to 65 for all of 2018, according to PriceFinder.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/19/vaucluse%20.jpg" alt="">
A pet friendly two bedroom unit set at the rear of a secure boutique block in Vaucluse has recently been sold for $1.1 million.
The unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-vaucluse-131163922" target="_blank">3/8 Burge Street</a> (pictured above) comprises two bedrooms, open plan living/dining, CaesarStone kitchen, and balcony.
It's just moments to village cafes, local shops, parklands and beaches. 
"With some economic concerns both at home and abroad, the prestige market may be a little more volatile as we head into the second half of the year," the valuation firm said.
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Eastern suburbs caught up in the greater Sydney market decline: HTW residential

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Sydney's Eastern suburbs saw the best weekend auction results with a clearance rate of 68%.
Across the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney there were a total of 71 auctions.
Sydney returned a preliminary auction clearance of 53.5%, improving on last week’s final auction clearance rate of 43.8%, which was the lowest result the city has seen since December 2008.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/8/CL%20recent.JPG" alt="">
There were 606 Sydney homes taken to auction this week, virtually unchanged from the week prior (608). 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/8/Eastern%20Suburbs%202.JPG" alt="">
Indicative of the strong turnout from the Eastern Suburbs is <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/8-18-stafford-street-double-bay-nsw-2028-2014632032" target="_blank">8/18 Stafford Street, Double Bay</a> (pictured above).
The two bedroom one bathroom apartment sold for $960,000.
The home is less than 100 metres from the beach and the waters' edge and last sold for $520,000 in 2004.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/8/Eastern%20Suburbs%201.JPG" alt="">
Another example of the Eastern suburbs strong clearance rate is <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/6-31-hollywood-avenue-bondi-junction-nsw-2022-2014621138" target="_blank">6/31 Hollywood Avenue, Bondi Junction</a> (pictured above).
The one bedroom one bathroom unit sold for $760,000 and is one of eight in an art deco block.
The apartment is just 200 metres to Westfield's retail hub with close proximity to Centennial Park and Bondi Beach as well.
It last sold for $350,000 in 2002.
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Sydney's Eastern suburb auction clearances bouncing back

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The eastern suburbs real estate doyenne Di Jones, 74, has died in hospital.
Her auctioneer husband of 48 years, Bill, and estate agent daughter Kim were by her side.
The company announced the news on its Facebook page on Sunday morning.
"It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of our much loved ambassador and founder, Di Jones," the statement advised.
It was 39 years ago, when Jones and her auctioneer husband, who had been in the hotel industry, opened their first office in Glebe, building a client base by door-knocking then at Raine &amp; Horne Woollahra, then Richardson &amp; Wrench Woollahra. 
The Di Jones agency story began in 1992, in a small boutique office in the Sydney suburb of Woollahra run by the local identity and real estate agent extraordinaire.
In 1995 Di Jones Real Estate sold 278 properties at auction, for a total of $117 million. 
It was the first female driven agency.
“I just wanted to do something different — it was very male-dominated back then,” she recalled last year. 
Within a decade the company was turning over $380 million in residential real estate, at an average of $890,000 a property after it expanded into Balmain in 1999 and into Double Bay in 2000. 
She loved real estate. "It gets into your blood," she once said.
"You become part of people's lives for a month. And I just love the architectural element - I love the houses." 
During her time, those dark humble terraces of Woollahra and Paddington became light filled, cosy habitats.
Jones, an ardent Francophile (which explains the French provincial blue she chose as her company's colour) got into real estate after she and Bill had been living on Mooloolaba on Queensland's Sunshine Coast with their two children. 
Their second child, Matthew, suffered brain damage at birth and needed special care - for that, they both needed to work. The answer was real estate which helped fund send Matthew to the Rudolf Steiner Warrah school in Dural.
Di Jones knew her patch well.
Her own agency was just a few doors from her home, one of the village's stone cottages.
Very quickly Di's boutique agency was a success recognised by its distinctive French blue advertising. She calculated 70 percent of her business was derived by referrals.
Since its sale in 2016, the boutique business is no longer in family hands, though the current owners endeavour to follow the Di Jones philosophy based on connecting with clients and creating a bespoke experience to achieve outstanding results.
Daughter Kim recently opened her own agency Snowden Jones. 
Matthew died unexpectedly in 2008 aged 34 and the family established the Matthew Jones Foundation.
Di Jones once participated in a day in the life feature on her selling Sydney's most expensive real estate which kicked off at 6.15am, with an early morning constitutional around Centennial Park.
The small and trim estate agent did the walk with Bill.
They did it four or five times a week, a 50 minute exercise. 
The writer Christine Hogan noted once in the office she was dressed in a neat black, knee-length skirt, sheer black hose, black courts with a medium heel and an ivory jacket accessorised with a diamond wedding band, a heavy gold link bracelet and gold hoop earrings.
There was her Gucci bag with her business lifelines - a tiny mobile phone and her diary as she headed to appointments in her white BMW.
Back at her desk the was just an ornate pen, a bottle of herbal asthma medicine, a bottle of pale nail polish and some Miss Dior perfume.
Tim Schwan, when he was her CEO, said she was tenacious at getting a sale.
The Daily Telegraph reported she suffered ill health for years and was being treated for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease at RPA, and a more recently diagnosed with cystic fibrosis.
She died in Prince of Wales Private Hospital last night.
.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Eastern suburbs estate agent doyenne Di Jones dies

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There's no slowing in Sydney's Eastern suburbs, according to CoreLogic weekend data.
The sub-region secured another strong clearance rate of 77 percent, well up on the 68 percent clearance rate Sydney totalled over the weekend.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/3/19/sub-regions.jpg" target="_blank">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/2018/3/19/sub-regions.jpg" alt="">
It's the second week in a row that the area has been approaching the 80 percent mark it achieved in the first weekend auctions of March.
One of the priciest weekend sales in Sydney's east was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-dover+heights-127588126" target="_blank">retro Dover Heights home</a> that fetched $3.85 million.
The four bedroom home, that last traded for $316,500 in 1984, had a buyers' guide of $3.65 million.
 
 
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Eastern suburbs continue to lead Sydney's clearance rate

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Sydney's eastern suburbs were the best performing sub-region in Sydney which scored a 66.6 percent clearance rate at the weekend, according to CoreLogic.
They cleared nearly 80 percent of their 114 auctions held.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/3/13/sub-regionsSyd.jpg" target="_blank">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/2018/3/13/sub-regionsSyd.jpg" alt="">
Headlining the sales was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-randwick-127521850" target="_blank">Randwick home</a> (top) that belonged to the same family for the last 70 years.
That fetched $3.1 million when it sold through Black Lifestyle Property agent Jason Black.
There's been no price disclosure, but a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-watsons+bay-127601354" target="_blank">Hamptons style Watsons Bay home</a> sold at auction last weekend through Ballard Property.
The three bedder last sold for $2.35 million in 2014.
 
 
 
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