<p>Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/red-co">Red &amp; Co</a> has made a striking debut on the Gold Coast, officially unveiling its $250 million COMO development in Varsity Lakes, a lifestyle-driven residential project anchored by an extensive rooftop wellness and activity precinct.</p>

<p>Having recently launched to market, construction has already been fast-tracked by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/5point-projects">5Point Projects</a>, ensuring momentum continues on what is set to become a landmark residential address for the growing Varsity Lakes community.</p>

<p>Located at 22 Lake Street, Varsity Lakes, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/como-varsity-lakes-22-lake-street-varsity-lakes-qld-4227">COMO</a> will comprise 156 apartments across 16 levels, comprising one-, two- and three-bedroom residences designed for modern living. However, it is the project’s rooftop amenity offering that sets COMO apart.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363510]</p>

<p>Designed as a dedicated wellness and recreation hub, the rooftop will feature a 25-metre lap pool, fully equipped gymnasium, and multiple pickleball and paddleball courts - amenities rarely seen in boutique apartment projects.</p>

<p>Residents will also have access to a sauna and plunge baths, while landscaped gardens and relaxation zones will provide tranquil spaces overlooking sweeping panoramic views across the Gold Coast skyline.</p>

<p>The rooftop precinct has been designed to function as the social and wellness heart of the development, encouraging residents to embrace an active, balanced lifestyle within their own building.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363512]</p>

<p>Red &amp; Co director David Laverty said the amenity offering was central to the project’s design from the outset.</p>

<p>“Amenities were at the forefront of our decisions,” Laverty said.</p>

<p>“Buyers today are looking for more than just an apartment - they want a lifestyle that promotes health, connection and balance.</p>

<p>“The rooftop at COMO has been designed to be the epicentre of that lifestyle, with a suite of wellness and recreation facilities that are quite unique for a boutique development of this scale.”</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363514]</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the residences prioritise liveability, featuring spacious layouts, 2.7-metre ceilings and high-quality finishes throughout.</p>

<p>The development sits beside Bond University, placing residents within walking distance of education, retail and dining options within the vibrant Varsity Lakes precinct, including Robina Town Centre, Varsity Lakes Train Station and a range of leading schools.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135546 project_image_fid=363511]</p>

<p>Laverty said the location was a key driver behind Red &amp; Co’s decision to bring the project to the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/varsity-lakes-qld-4227">Varsity Lakes</a> was a clear choice for us to invest in as it’s a lifestyle hub that seamlessly blends lakeside living with urbanity,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Como will capitalize on this great location, delivering a project that not only creates premium homes, but a lifestyle defined by community, wellbeing, and connectivity.”</p>

<p>Red &amp; Co has delivered more than 500 apartments and townhouses across 26 projects in Brisbane in recent years, with COMO marking the company’s first major Gold Coast development.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135546]</p>


Joel Robinson

Red & Co unveils amenity-rich Como development in Varsity Lakes

<p>Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/big-projects">Big Projects</a> has secured approval for its second Mermaid Beach project.</p>

<p>The developer, currently selling <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-frederick-mermaid-beach-2265-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Frederick in Nobby Beach</a>, has secured approval for its next project just 1.5 kilomnetres up the road.</p>

<p>The new development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/glenelg-residences-2462-2472-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Glenelg Residences</a>, has been designed by BDA Architecture and&nbsp;will have just under 100 apartments across an 11-storey building&nbsp;at 2462–2472 Gold Coast Highway, on the corner of Glenelg Avenue just under 300m from the future Mermaid Beach Light Rail stop.</p>

<p>The apartments, a mix of two- and three-bedrooms, will sit above a retail-focused ground plane and under extensive rooftop resident amenities.</p>

<p><img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.04%20am.png?VersionId=z6NV4izeuvhBSSVlY6vK6TPO1LxrFeaG" /></p>

<p>BDA said in its planning submission that the project is intended to support the area’s transition toward higher-density, mixed-use living. “This project offers the opportunity to generate appropriate higher-intensity development within the future Light Rail corridor of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>,” the submission noted.</p>

<p>At ground level, Glenelg Residences will include eight retail tenancies designed to activate the street frontage, complemented by a basement bar offering an additional hospitality element. Above, residents will have access to a rooftop amenity deck featuring an infinity pool, hot and cold plunge spas, day beds, and barbecue facilities.</p>

<p>The architectural approach adopts a restrained material palette of brick, textured concrete, and integrated landscaping, with cantilevered concrete frames and cascading planting intended to soften the built form. BDA described the design as aiming to create “a memorable sculptural mid-rise mixed-use building” that responds to both its coastal setting and urban context.</p>

<p><img alt="Exclusive: Big Projects plot Mermaid Beach apartment development, Glenelg Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-06-11%20at%209.55.45%20am.png?VersionId=cpjIVBqcT_sujmo2UMWkVyLcQ7WGJHaQ" /></p>

<p>The approval comes as the City of Gold Coast continues to plan for significant population growth, with regional targets requiring more than 100,000 new high-density dwellings by 2046.</p>

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-36" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:55d7c6ac-8e6d-4881-ad49-0ed9bf66d1cc-17" dir="auto">
<p data-end="436" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="" data-start="244">Big Projects, led by Matthew and John Barrett, is part of a growing cohort of developers that deliver construction in-house, providing a high level of confidence to prospective purchasers.</p>
</section>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150260]</p>


Big Projects secures approval for Glenelg Residences in Mermaid Beach

<p>Sherpa Group is ramping up its investment in the southern Gold Coast by lodging a development application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, a new $350 million project in Coolangatta.</p>

<p>The move comes after the group’s $27 million acquisition of the 2,029 sqm site on the corner of Griffith and Warner Street, last year.</p>

<p>They will develop 194 apartments across a 26-storey tower, which will become Sherpa’s largest project to date.</p>

<p>Viveré will be the next chapter in the Flourish story, following closely behind Amargo, Oasis, and the Avenues in Palm Beach, as well as Symphony in Brisbane, all designed to deliver affordable housing in lifestyle-rich locations, giving locals a real chance to secure a residence close to the beachfront.</p>

<p>The HAL Architect-designed project will offer a diverse range of residences, from one-, two, and three- bedroom apartments to the premium Canopy range to luxury penthouses.</p>

<p><img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c85f5a7e-a22f-4745-8def-400adb3c0b35" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.43%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=OY.chur3BPExn1exQ2q8clHqWnW_CaBi" /></p>

<p>“The Gold Coast is undergoing a period of immense growth, with more people drawn to the incredible<br />
lifestyle that’s available, leading to strong growth in property prices,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa<br />
Group.</p>

<p>“Our goal at Sherpa is to ensure locals are not priced out of the market in prime locations, which is why we<br />
created the Flourish collection.</p>

<p>“Flourish Vivere will form the next chapter in our portfolio, and we are so excited to be lodging the DA, marking our first project in Coolangatta.”</p>

<p>A signature of the Flourish developments is the communal rooftop. Flourish Vivere will showcase a private resident’s lounge, outdoor dining with barbecues and pizza ovens, heated pool, fully-equipped gym, and a wellness centre with sauna and steam room.</p>

<p><img alt="Vivere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c09372cc-aae6-4458-af2e-f291bd19a5e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-15%20at%209.53.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Sc_RLXl5jiff.tnadogXjQJ_WIpDjf3p" /></p>

<p>The project is strategically located to offer a walkable lifestyle, with the Strand shopping centre, cafes, restaurants, shops and the beach, all just a short stroll away.</p>

<p>“We have meticulously planned Vivere to build on the Flourish legacy, creating a truly special project,”&nbsp;Leet added.</p>

<p>“Wellness, lifestyle and community are at the forefront of every decision we make, and that has not<br />
changed for Vivere.”</p>

<p>With the DA now lodged with the Gold Coast City Council, Sherpa has moved quickly to secure LPS Group as the builder, offering buyers a level of certainty that is rarely seen in today’s market.</p>

<p>Sherpa has delivered 16 residential projects over the past seven years with a pipeline of $1 billion, with more under construction.</p>


Sherpa takes Flourish brand to Coolangatta, lays plans for Flourish Vivere 

<p>S&amp;S Projects is boosting its investment at Rainbow Bay to more than $1 billion after the prolific Gold Coast developer acquired a new site for $20.25 million and immediately laid plans for a new luxury apartment project in the sought-after precinct.</p>

<p>The site, which is the company’s fifth acquisition at Rainbow Bay in the past four years, will be home to the company’s largest project to date after delivering 3 sold-out projects and construction progresses on Radia worth a combined $215m.<br />
S&amp;S Projects is currently finalising plans for its latest strategic acquisition, a 1,518 sqm site located 209-213 Boundary Street in Coolangatta, with a development application expected to be lodged within weeks.</p>

<p>The luxury residential development will build on the company’s highly successful projects at Rainbow Bay, comprising Flow, Awaken, Esprit and Radia, with Radia currently under construction by Hutchinson Builders.</p>

<p>“We have been unflinching in our commitment to Rainbow Bay and the transformation we have helped drive in this incredible part of the Gold Coast, which is among the city’s most desirable residential locations,” said S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun.</p>

<p>“Our fifth project will reflect the best of what we have done so far to create a lifestyle precinct that is second to none.”</p>

<p>The latest development, which has yet to be named, is proposed to accommodate 88 luxury apartments in a design that will immerse residents in a unique wellness lifestyle that expands on the legacy of S&amp;S Project’s earlier developments at Rainbow Bay.</p>

<p>The development will feature an expansive rooftop garden and wellness centre with a resort- style pool, among a host of lifestyle amenities planned for residents.</p>

<p>“Rainbow Bay, with its beautiful, protected beach and alongside one of the world’s best surf breaks at Snapper Rocks, is the natural wellness heartland of the Gold Coast,” said Gedoun.</p>

<p>“We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden.”</p>

<p>The latest acquisition comes as S&amp;S Projects is at the completion of Esprit and construction continues on Radia, which are part of their significant portfolio undertaken by the company at Rainbow Bay since 2022.</p>

<p>The $215 million Radia, which comprises 38 apartments, is currently the flagship development by S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay which is expected to be completed in 2027.</p>

<p>Jayde Pezet, of Pezet Matheson, which has managed sales and marketing for S&amp;S Projects across their Gold Coast portfolio, emphasised the developer’s commitment to continuous improvement and excellence.</p>

<p>“S&amp;S Projects continue to elevate the benchmark of luxury with each development," Pezet said.</p>

<p>“We have worked with S&amp;amp;S on their 4 other projects in Rainbow Bay and their approach reflects a team that is constantly learning, refining, and pushing the standard higher.</p>

<p>“Their hyper-local knowledge and deep expertise within the luxury property sector are what truly set them apart, allowing them to deliver projects that feel both globally sophisticated and authentically connected to their coastal environment”</p>

<p>S&amp;S Projects plans to officially launch its latest project at Rainbow Bay in the second half of this year.</p>

<p>“As we embark on our largest project yet, we have pulled out all stops to create another landmark development that truly reflects the relaxed southern Gold Coast lifestyle,” Gedoun added.</p>


S&S buys $20m Rainbow Bay site for fifth beachside apartment project

<p data-end="268" data-start="86">Japandi, an emerging design trend that combines Scandinavian functionality with Japanese rustic minimalism, remains relatively untested in Australia’s residential development market.</p>

<p data-end="545" data-start="270">As developers look to differentiate their projects and offer something distinct to buyers, Brisbane-based developer Lantona has embraced the hybrid style for its recently launched Toowong apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/koya-residences-6-josling-street-toowong-qld-4066">Koya Residences</a>, with early response to the design proving positive.</p>

<p data-end="1014" data-start="547">Lantona entrusted Red Door Architecture and interiors practice Luma Design Co with delivering the Japandi brief. The approach blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality, emphasising warm, restrained interiors, natural materials and clean lines. Drawing on the Japanese concept of <em data-end="855" data-start="844">wabi-sabi</em> (beauty in imperfection) and the Scandinavian principle of <em data-end="922" data-start="915">hygge</em> (comfort and cosiness), it creates serene, uncluttered and sustainable living environments.</p>

<p data-end="1200" data-start="1016">These design principles are expressed throughout the Josling Street development, both in its exterior form and across the 40 one-, two- and three-bedroom residences within.</p>

<p data-end="817" data-start="541">[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366229]</p>

<p>Koya reflects a deliberately scaled approach, with the five-storey form designed to align with the surrounding residential streetscape rather than dominate it.</p>

<p>“Koya is conceived as a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings. Every decision, from material selection to spatial planning, has been guided by long-term liveability and enduring relevance,” the developer said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366243]</p>

<p>Positioned within an established inner-west neighbourhood, the development sits near riverfront parklands and the Bicentennial Bikeway, while remaining within walking distance of Toowong Village and multiple public transport options connecting to the CBD, St Lucia and West End.</p>

<p>Lantona said the location was central to the project’s conception, pointing to Toowong’s balance of green space, transport access and proximity to major education institutions.</p>

<p>“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> combines river access, walkability, immediate CBD connection and a strong educational presence. That balance made it the obvious setting for Koya.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]</p>

<p>Communal amenity is concentrated on the rooftop, where a shared retreat will include a pool, dining areas and outdoor spaces oriented towards neighbourhood and city views. The design allows for both private use and small gatherings, extending the living environment beyond individual apartments.</p>

<p>Koya enters the market at a time when smaller-scale developments are becoming less common in established suburbs, with many recent projects in the suburb shooting for the sky.</p>

<p>In a nod of confidence,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/brisbane-builders">Brisbane Builders</a>&nbsp;has already commenced construction on the building, which is slated for completion in early 2027. Keenan &amp; Byrne is marketing Koya.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150787]</p>


Japandi-inspired Koya Residences launch in Toowong

Home Building

<html><body>
<p>The home builder AVJennings, spurred by the Homebuilder grant, has seen a 47 per cent year on year jump in house sales.</p>

<p>The details were revealed when AVJennings reported its results for the six months to December 31.</p>

<p>It has 12,700 lots in its portfolio.</p>

<p>2021 will see the commencement of three new projects, Prosper at Kogarah in Sydney; Rosella Rise at Warnervale on the NSW Central Coast; and Aspect at Mernda in Melbourne’s strong northern corridor.</p>

<p>All are due to commence on-site development. Last year saw its Bethania project in Queensland recommence with construction after a three year hold.</p>

<p><img alt="" height="816" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/av_jennings_results.jpg" width="1200"></p>

<p>Its managing director Peter Summers forecast an even better second half for the company given new-home buyers remain active. It had 408 pre-sales carried over at 31 December 2020.</p>

<p>It has 331 contracts signed at 31 December 2020 with a pre-sale value of $121 million expected to settle before 30th June 2021. Around 118 additional contracts were signed in 2021 to 23 February 2021. It typically sells to owner occupiers, with some 46 percent being first home buyers during the first year of the financial year.</p>

<p>During the last financial year FHBs sat at 35 percent of their buyers. Over the period investors fell from 11 percent to 9 percent, while builder/developers fell away to constitute 14 percent of the market rather than its prior 21 percent take up.</p>

<p>HomeBuilder and other government support/stimulus had been "vital" in encouraging existing underlying demand to continue with their buying intentions, the report noted. It also noted the resumption and level of immigration into Australia, and New Zealand, will be important drivers of activity for the sector.</p>
</body></html>

AVJennings is cautiously optimistic that the recovery will consolidate through 2021

jchancellor

Home builder AV Jennings sees big jump in house sales

<html><body>
<p><span>OK so the </span>ABS Building Activity<span> data series doesn't quite run back to 1788, but take a Captain Cook at this:</span></p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA3.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA3.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p> </p>
<div>Dwelling completions have surged to their highest ever level with more than 186,000 homes completed over the past year.<br><br>Furthermore there are presently some 184,000 dwellings under construction, which is the highest number in Australia's history.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Many pundits scoffed at the Reserve Bank's plan to stimulate construction, but prices are rising and supply has responded with a vengeance, despite inflation in the cost of trades and materials. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As the largest cities have become denser over time, this construction cycle has largely been a story of units, townhouses and apartments - the "attached dwellings" sector. </div>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br></span></strong><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Building work done</span></strong><br><br></p>
<div>It should be acknowledged that in spite of all the numbers that are being thrown around in relation to record home starts, record completions and record dwellings under construction, the residential construction boom has likely now nudged against its peak. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Despite being higher over the year the value of new residential building work done slipped -3.4 per cent lower in the June quarter to $12.8 billion, although the resi sector was held up to some extent by a long overdue +4.0 per cent surge in major renovations work. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There has not been much to shout about from the non-residential sector since the financial crisis stimulus. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span>At the state level the economies of the most populous states have benefited from a building boom, but the value of building work done appears to have peaked, albeit remaining at a historically high level. </span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA2.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA2.jpg" alt=""></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dwelling completions by state</span></strong><br><br><div>Where are new houses coming online? Mainly in Victoria with more than 31,000 houses completed over the past year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA4.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div><span>As for units and apartments there has been a strong completion rate across most of the larger states, with Victoria again leading the way in completing nearly 25,000 units over the past year. </span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA5.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA5.jpg" alt=""></span></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Although it will be the topic of a separate blog post, these figures show why the "Sydney oversupply" meme has been wide of the mark. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The above charts represent state level figures, and it is clear that the supply of new units and apartments has ramped up impressively over the past four years.<br><br>But despite the improvement, total dwelling completions in New South Wales of 144,000 dwellings is barely keeping pace with a population which has surged by close to 400,000 over that time, while this follows on from a weak half decade of completions in the harbour city which ran from 2005.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>After accounting for stock obsolescence and demolitions, the thousands of apartments which are left vacant, and the fact that close to half of new dwellings in NSW over that time have been units (which typically house only provide accommodation for a couple)...well, there's not much overbuilding in aggregate to be found in those numbers, even if the rentals market is now fully supplied.<br><br>It is much more difficult for a growing city with a population the size of Greater Sydney (approaching 5 million) to overbuild housing than it is for a city the size of, say, Belfast, although Melbourne is certainly giving its best shot.<br><br>For all that, there are of course plenty of sub-regions around Australia with localised oversupply, and particularly so the case of higher-density dwellings. </div>
<br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Commencements peak at record high</span></strong><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br></span></strong>
<div>Total commencements have increased by +14 per cent over the past year to a new high of nearly 210,000.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was another strong quarter in June, but the 53,314 commencements result was below that of two of the preceding three quarters, and it is forecast that commencements will now decline through 2015/16.</div>
<p><a href="/images/2015/10/19/BA6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA6.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>Finally, there are 184,000 dwellings under construction at the present time, which is the highest figure in Australia's history. </span></p>
<p><span>Click to enlarge</span></p>
<p><span><img src="/images/2015/10/19/BA7.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span>This should keep the residential construction sector operating at or close to its full capacity for some time to come.</span></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Strongest homebuilding since 1788: Pete Wargent

<html><body>
<p>The ABS reported that Building Approvals remained resolutely strong in August 2016, with some 20,788 private sector dwellings approved, driven yet by another rebound in attached dwellings.</p>
<p>The trend in detached house approvals has declined by about 5 percent since peaking in April 2015, while attached dwellings have just kept on trucking. </p>
<div id="post-body-9064765407508357015" class="post-body entry-content"><a href="/images/2016/10/07/A1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="post-body entry-content">
<br><div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/10/07/A1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Over the year to August some 238,204 dwellings were approved, with the annual total levitating above 200,000 for 23 months on the bounce since October 2014. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Commentators have been calling for an end to the boom for, well, basically all of that time, but those pesky numbers just won't sit down. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/10/07/A4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<br><img src="/images/2016/10/07/A4.jpg" alt=""><br><br><div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">City by city (moar apartments!)</span></strong></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Perth and Darwin continue to adjust to their respectively slowing markets, with house approvals accordingly in a steep decline. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne remains the city with the strongest trend in house approvals, which may be just as well given the awesomely strong population growth in that city.</div>
</div>
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<br><div class="separator">Sydney has seen a number of monumental projects put forward for consideration over the past year, including a 10-tower monster being proposed for the site of the present Fish Markets, opposite the old Wentworth Park Dogs.</div>
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<div class="separator">It's never entirely clear specifically which projects the ABS approvals figures relate to, but Sydney has approved an all-comers record 11,838 attached dwellings in only three months (wow-wee!). </div>
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<div class="separator">Records are being zinged all over the shop here.</div>
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<div class="separator"><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">High rise kaboom</span></strong></div>
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<div class="separator">It's no particular surprise to note that the rebound has been driven by high-density apartment projects of four or more storeys - a high proportion of these will be sold to mainland Chinese - with approvals for most other dwelling types in a steady decline.</div>
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<br><div>While Victoria may have seen a number of high-rise projects pulled forward into FY2015/16 due to planning changes, New South Wales is rubber-stamping projects for fun right now (although whether all of these approvals come to fruition is another thing).</div>
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<br><div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The wrap</span></strong></div>
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<div>The approvals figures have elicited quite a lot of excitement, although the completions delivered to date have been far less arousing.</div>
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<div>The Housing Monitor reported that Sydney saw a total of 30,191 houses and apartments completed during 2015/16, which was the strongest result since 1999/2000 (which if anything just underscores how long it has been since Sydney constructed a decent number of dwellings). </div>
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<div>This sounds quite impressive until you compare it to the hugely strong population growth of the Greater Sydney region over the same time period. </div>
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<div>Unsurprisingly, the impact on price growth was precisely zip, with dwelling prices rising by about 10 per cent. </div>
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<div>However, the key characteristic of this construction cycle is the lag - and apartment completions will increase further in 2016/17. In fact, a lot further. </div>
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<div>The figures clearly continue to show that the delivery of this glut of high-rise projects is the most at-risk sector of the market.</div>
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<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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High rise projects most at-risk sector: Pete Wargent

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>The headline number of new dwelling approvals rose again during October - the third consecutive month of expansion – a consequence of significant growth in Victoria. </p>
<p>The ABS Building Approvals data report that the total number of new dwelling approvals rose by 0.9% compared with September.</p>
<p>This growth was underpinned by a 24.3% increase in approvals in Victoria and 6.1% growth in Queensland, which outstripped the declines in all other states.</p>
<p>The remarkable growth in Victoria is the stand-out feature of the Australian housing market at the moment.</p>
<p>Strong employment growth in Victoria is attracting interstate and international migration and the rising population is continuing to drive demand for more housing stock.</p>
<p>The record supply of new apartments in the state has not been able to fully satisfy demand.</p>
<p>Today’s data are consistent with our latest forecasts which were released earlier this week. The short- term outlook for new home building has been upgraded.</p>
<p>During 2018, we foresee an 8.2% reduction in new dwelling starts followed by a decline of 10.0% in 2019. This will mean that new home building activity will ease to levels that remain high by historic standards.</p>
<p>The positive result was driven by new detached house approvals which saw a 1.9% gain during October. Approvals on the multi-unit side dipped by 0.2% during the month.</p>
<p>New dwelling approvals declined in five jurisdictions during October, with the largest fall affecting Western Australia (-17.8%).</p>
<p>There were also reductions in Tasmania (-13.1%), South Australia (-8.4%), New South Wales (-6.8%) and the ACT (-5.3%). Only two states experienced growth in new dwelling approvals during October 2017. </p>
<p><em><strong>Shane Garrett</strong> is a senior economist at HIA.</em></p>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Victoria pushes national approval rate higher: Shane Garrett

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<p>Tokyo-listed Daiwa House has expanded into Australia's house building sector with the acquisition of Rawson Homes, which is ranked the fifth-biggest home builder in NSW.</p>
<p>Daiwa House will collaborate with the Rawson Group to further expand the Rawson Group's businesses in Australia, the company said in a statement.</p>
<p>Limited terms of the deal were announced by Baker McKenzie.</p>
<p>Baker McKenzie acted for the Tokyo based Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd in the cross-border acquisition of the Rawson Group in Australia</p>
<p>Transaction documents were signed on 28 November 2017.</p>
<p>The Daiwa House is Japan's largest homebuilding company, is listed on both the Tokyo Stock Exchange and has approximately 40,000 employees globally.</p>
<p>The Rawson Group is a residential housing construction and land development business located in Sydney, Australia.</p>
<p>Baker McKenzie Head of Corporate Markets in Australia, Ben McLaughlin noted the Rawson Group was a 40 year old private corporation focused on land development and the construction of single-family homes in Sydney.</p>
<p>"The acquisition marks the Tokyo-based, Daiwa House Industry Co, Ltd's accelerated expansion through acquiring overseas businesses which are expected to see medium to long term growth," he said.</p>
<p>The transaction was led in Tokyo by Partner Mr Tetsuo Tsujimoto and his colleague Mr Tsubasa Kubota, and in Sydney by Mr Lawrence Mendes and Ms Emily Hunter who are members of Ben McLaughlin's team.</p>
<p>Rawson, Australia's 20th-largest home builder with 1188 housing starts in the year to June, according to the HIA-Colorbond Steel Housing 100 report, made net sales of $544 million and a net profit of $35 million, Daiwa House said.</p>
<p>It will take possession of the shares – owned by brothers Mark, Peter and Lawrence Rawson – next January, subject to the Foreign Investment Review Board.</p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Rawson Homes acquired in Daiwa House's expansion into Australia's house building sector 

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<p>GUEST OBSERVER</p>
<p>ABS figures for November 2016 demonstrate strength in lending for new housing.</p>
<p><span>Lending for new housing - to both owner occupiers and investors - turned in strong results in this latest ABS update.</span></p>
<p><span>The new home building </span><span>sector will continue to provide strong support to the broader Australian economy through the </span><span>first half of 2017.</span></p>
<p><span>The number of owner occupier loans for the construction or purchase of a new dwelling increased by 2.7 per cent in November 2016. Meanwhile the value of lending for construction investment reached a new record on a moving annual basis. </span></p>
<p><span>The new home lending cycle has peaked, but the November results confirm that the elevated volumes of lending we have seen over the last three and a half years remained in play as 2016 neared an end</span><span>. </span></p>
<p><span>T</span><span>hat’s a tick in the box for the Australian economy</span><span>.</span><span><br></span></p>
<p><span>As has been typical throughout this cycle, the profile for new home lending varies widely between states and territories</span><span>. </span></p>
<p><span>Looking beyond just today’s update, it </span><span>is not surprising that New South Wales and Victoria are faring the best overall.</span><span><br></span></p>
<p><span>Compared with 12 months ago, the number of loans for construction and purchase of new homes increased in five out of eight states and territories in November 2016. The fastest annual growth occurred in Tasmania (+28.4 percent), followed by Queensland (+20.0 percent), South Australia (+11.0 percent), New South Wales (+9.9 percent), and Victoria (+9.6 percent). The number of loans for new housing fell in November in the Northern Territory (- 57.9 percent), the Australian Capital Territory (-23.3 percent), and in Western Australia (-9.5 percent). </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/Screen%20Shot%202017-01-17%20at%202.12.29%20PM.png" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></p>
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<p><em>Harley Dale is chief economist at the Housing Industry Association and can be contacted <a href="https://hia.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.</em></p>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

New house lending turns in strong result: HIA's Harley Dale

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<div class="column">New council approvals to build houses or apartments are volatile on a monthly basis.</div>
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<div class="column">But overall the amount of building is still hovering near record highs. But there was a new ingredient in the mix in September – a sharp lift in commercial building approvals.</div>
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<div class="column">While not disclosed by the Bureau of Statistics, the project boosting the total seems to be the $2 billion Crown Sydney resort that includes retail, entertainment and hotel accommodation components. While just one – albeit big – project, it still adds to demand for labour and materials and will support building activity through to 2020.</div>
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<br>The sharp price gains for iron ore and thermal and coking coal point to higher incomes in Australia and higher tax revenues for the Federal Government. The higher prices reflect stronger Chinese economic activity, especially a resurgence in residential building. In terms of coal, a reduction in Chinese coal output has served to boost import demand and prices. But overall the news is good for Australian resource regions and good news for the Federal Budget.</div>
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<br>As the Reserve Bank noted yesterday, consumer and business confidence levels are above longer-term averages. Low interest rates, rising real incomes and solid confidence levels should support spending in the lead up to Christmas.</div>
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<br>The National Fiscal Outlook neatly presents in one place the position of Commonwealth and State Government finances. There are no major surprises and nothing to spook rating agencies. Infrastructure spending is up, expenses are down and lower revenues reflect slower nominal economic growth. But to some extent the document may already be ancient history. The economy is picking up pace, higher commodity prices will boost government coffers and inflation looks to be lifting from lows. </div>
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<br>Australian government debt is set to peak near 19 percent of GDP – one of the lowest debt ratios of major advanced economies. And the path to fiscal surplus remains intact.</div>
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<br>What do the figures show?</div>
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<br>Building Approvals:</div>
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<div class="column">Dwelling approvals fell by 8.7 percent in September – the fourth decline in five months. In trend terms, approvals fell by 0.6 percent.</div>
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<br>Over the past year 237,822 new homes were approved, just shy of the record high 240,919 in the year to October 2015.<br>House approvals rose by 1.7 percent in September – the first rise in four months. Meanwhile ‘lumpy’ apartment approvals fell by 17.5 percent in September after falling by 2.9 percent in August and rising by 24.1 percent in July.</div>
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<br>Dwelling approvals in September were down by 6.4 percent on a year ago in seasonally adjusted terms but up 2.1 percent in trend terms.</div>
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<br>Dwelling approvals across states and territories in September: NSW (-13.3 percent); Victoria (-15.6 percent); Queensland (-11.7 percent); South Australia (+9.4 percent); Western Australia (+5.6 percent); Tasmania (-4.0 percent).</div>
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<div class="column">In trend terms, approvals fell by 6.0 percent in the Northern Territory but rose by 15.9 percent in the ACT.</div>
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<br>The value of all commercial and residential building approvals soared by 29.9 percent in September to a record high of $11.8 billion. Residential approvals fell by 4.4 percent with new building down by 4.6 percent while alterations &amp; additions fell by 2.2 percent. Commercial building lifted by 118.9 percent in September to a 7-year high of $5.5 billion.</div>
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<br>Fiscal outlook</div>
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<div class="column">The Parliamentary Budget Office has released the National Fiscal Outlook report. The PBO says Commonwealth net debt will lift to $356.4 billion (18.8 percent of GDP) in 2018/19 compared with $346.6 billion (18.2 percent of GDP) at the 2015/16 mid-year estimate (MYEFO). Net debt is to peak at 19.2 percent of GDP in 2017/18 before improving to reach 17.8 percent of GDP in 2019/20.</div>
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<br>The PBO said: “According to Commonwealth and state government 2016/17 budgets the projected national fiscal deficit from 2015/16 to 2018/19 has deteriorated by $14.9 billion (from a total of $122.3 billion at the time of the mid-year updates to $137.1 billion).</div>
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<br>The deterioration in the projected fiscal outlook from 2015/16 to 2018/19 is due to a downward revision in projected revenue of $18.1 billion along with an upward revision in net capital investment of $2.8 billion, partially offset by a downward revision in expenses of $6.0 billion.</div>
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<br>“Relative to the 2015/16 mid-year fiscal updates, the Commonwealth’s projected fiscal deficit from 2015/16 to 2018/19 has increased by $8.9 billion (from $96.1 billion to $105.1 billion), driven primarily by a decline in projected revenue, partially offset by a reduction in projected expenses and net capital investment.”</div>
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<br>Consumer confidence</div>
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<div class="column">The ANZ/Roy Morgan consumer confidence rating rose by 0.4 percent to 114.1 in the week to October 30. Confidence is down 1.0 percent over the year but above the average of 112.4 since 2014. Three of five components of the index fell in the latest week:</div>
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<li> The estimate of family finances compared with a year ago was down from +9 to +8; </li>
<li> The estimate of family finances over the next year was up from +21 to +26;</li>
<li>  Economic conditions over the next 12 months was down from +0 to -3;</li>
<li>  Economic conditions over the next 5 years was down from +6 to +5;</li>
<li>  The measure of whether it was a good time to buy a major household item was up from +32 points to +35 points.</li>
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What is the importance of the economic data?</div>
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<br>The Bureau of Statistics' monthly Building Approvals release contains figures on local council approvals to build residential structures such as homes and units as well as commercial premises such as offices and shops. Approval is one of the first stages of the construction ‘pipeline’ and is thus a key leading indicator of future activity. An increase in approvals would point to stronger future activity for construction-related companies.</div>
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<br>The ANZ/Roy Morgan weekly survey of consumer confidence closely tracks the monthly Westpac/Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index but the former measure is a timelier assessment of consumer attitudes and is now closely tracked by the Reserve Bank.</div>
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<br>What are the implications for interest rates and investors?</div>
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<div class="column">The Reserve Bank has received ample justification for its decision to leave rates on hold. The value of building approvals has hit fresh highs and the lift in iron ore and coal prices will serve to lift labour demand, spending and economic activity in resource regions.</div>
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<br>CommSec expects the Reserve Bank to remain on the interest rate sidelines for an extended period. The job market is in decent shape, consumers and businesses remain confident and home building is just shy of record highs. And importantly, inflation is projected to rise over the next two years.<br><br>
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<div class="column"><em>Craig James is the chief economist at <a href="https://www.comsec.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">CommSec</a>.</em></div>
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cjames-5S2v74qSNK

Home building numbers hover near record highs: Craig James

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<p>The HIA-COLORBOND® steel Housing 100 Report 2015/16 reveals a fourth consecutive increase in new dwelling commencements for Australia’s largest volume builders, with Metricon topping the latest list.</p>
<p>“This latest rise takes the number of HOUSING 100 starts to a record high, just surpassing the previous peak reached in 2003/04,” said HIA chief economist, Dr Harley Dale.</p>
<p>The total number of HOUSING 100 starts was 69,161 in 2015/16, compared to the previous record of 69,100 in 2003/04 and the ten year high of 68,621 reached in 2014/15.</p>
<p>The report, that ranks Australia’s largest 100 residential builders based on the number of homes commenced each year, found that Metricon Homes was the nation’s number one home builder in 2015/16.</p>
<p>Metricon Homes reported a total of 4,365 starts, of which 3,794 were detached houses and 571 were ‘semi-detached’ dwellings.</p>
<p>These homes were started across Victoria, Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia.</p>
<p>The second highest ranked builder in 2015/16 was BGC (Australia) with 4,049 housing starts, followed by Harry Triguboff's Meriton Apartments with 3,793 starts.</p>
<p>The HOUSING 100 featured a number of ‘big movers’ in 2015/16.</p>
<p>Nine companies increased their housing starts by more than 200, while a further ten increased their housing starts by between 100 and 199.</p>
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<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2016/09/21/Screen%20Shot%202016-09-21%20at%2010.38.17%20AM.png" alt=""></p>
<p>The biggest mover was MJH Group (+1,034 starts) followed by Metricon Homes (+994 starts).</p>
<p>The HOUSING 100 started 50,507 detached houses in 2015/16.</p>
<p>The nation’s largest 100 builders started 5,697 semi-detached dwellings and 12,957 multi-units.</p>
<p>“A key focus during this record new home building cycle has been on the changing composition of new dwelling supply, particularly the increased volume and share of medium/high density (MHD) dwellings,” noted Harley Dale.</p>
<p>“The latest HOUSING 100 results reflect this changing dynamic of Australia’s new home construction landscape.</p>
<p>“Beyond this year the housing pond becomes muddier - the record level of MHD product in the pipeline provides the Australian economy with an unprecedented degree of uncertainty regarding the timing and magnitude of the down cycle,” concluded Harley Dale.</p>
<p>“The broad brush approach to credit restrictions applied by APRA, together with the cash-grab transaction costs levied by some state governments on foreign investors exacerbate the downside risks to new home construction and therefore the broader domestic economy.”</p>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Metricon tops BGC and Meriton as largest home builder: HIA top 100

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<p>Commonwealth Bank of Australia's former head of private banking Adrian Hondros is understood to be taking up the post of chief executive at the homebuilder, Porter Davis. </p>
<p>Hondros will start at the nation's 11th-largest home builder in the new role in October, sources told the Australian Financial Review's Street Talk column.</p>
<p>The Melbourne-based company was founded by Anthony Roberts, David Shergold, and Daniel Stutterd around two decades ago. </p>
<p>Roberts will remain managing director of Porter Davis when Hondros takes the reins.</p>
<p>The company delivers about 1,500 homes annually and in 2016 entered the Queensland market. </p>
<p>Hondros had been with CBA for more than seven years after stints as chief of the HBOS St Andrew's insurance business and at the National Australia Bank. </p>
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