The final apartments in the most recently completed new development in Balwyn present some of the largest and most exclusive ever delivered in one of Melbourne’s most established and character-rich neighbourhoods.

Boutique developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wulff-projects">Wulff Projects</a>,&nbsp;alongside partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pga-group">PGA Group</a>, has just finished <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/threadneedle-balwyn-1-5-threadneedle-street-balwyn-vic-3103">Threadneedle</a>, 17 home-sized residences designed completely for the owner-occupier.

Named after its location on Threadneedle Street, the new project has been shaped by the heritage fabric of Balwyn. It offers two low-rise buildings of eight and nine apartments respectively, designed to emulate traditional standalone homes.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355582]

John Scaramuzzino, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, explains the design intention.

“Given the quiet residential character of the street with many homes dating back to the 1930s and 1940s, we approached Threadneedle wanting to appear less as a collection of apartments and more as a traditional residence. This led to creating not one but two buildings that could “breathe” with larger garden-based apartments functioning more like small homes.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355605]

The north-facing residences are nestled among extensive landscaped gardens by Ben Scott Garden Design, with over one-third of the site dedicated to greenery. The resulting setting is one of calm seclusion, where architecture and landscape work in tandem to offer immediate liveability.

With construction now complete, the final apartments include a top-floor, single-level penthouse residence priced from $2.8 million. This home offers three bedrooms, a dedicated study, two bathrooms plus powder room, and three car spaces with an oversized storage room.&nbsp;

Interiors prioritise spatial comfort and natural light, with three-metre-high ceilings, oversized internal doors and a full-width terrace oriented to the north, east and west.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355604]

Floor-to-ceiling double-glazed windows ensure thermal performance across seasons, supported by automated external blinds, zoned heating and cooling, and a fireplace for added ambiance.

Each apartment has been individually designed to maximise privacy and garden outlooks. Kitchens combine refined finishes with practical considerations: stone benchtops, butler’s pantry, full-height joinery and concealed rangehoods.&nbsp;

The inclusion of dedicated home offices responds to contemporary living patterns, while bathrooms feature sculptural bathtubs and brushed nickel fixtures.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355590]

Threadneedle also integrates best-practice sustainability measures, achieving a 7 Star average NatHERS rating. Initiatives include solar PV systems, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and irrigation, and high-performing building insulation. These elements enhance daily comfort while reducing ongoing maintenance and energy demand.

"We believe Threadneedle sets a new standard of design excellence and building quality for Balwyn,"&nbsp;Scaramuzzino added.

"It’s an architectural response we’re particularly proud of, and one we’re sure residents will be equally proud to call home."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27816]

Staff Writer

Final homes remaining as Threadneedle, Balwyn completes construction

Joel Robinson

Sydney's top 15 new apartments developments set to launch in 2026

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a> has pushed beyond the now-standard inclusions of rooftop pools and landscaped podiums at its recently launched new Epping project, Senso.

It has laid out over 4,000 sqm of resident-only amenity in a move designed to compete directly with low-density housing on livability, not just density. The result is a development that supports genuine daily use through purposeful spaces distributed across its five-building, 479-apartment precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Two rooftop pools form the anchor of Senso. One is a 27-metre lap pool adjoining a heated spa, designed for everyday fitness rather than just summer leisure. The second sits on a lower podium, allowing different buildings to share in vertical access and reducing crowding during peak times.

It is the secondary spaces that start to distinguish Senso from other large-scale suburban projects. A rooftop cinema is integrated into a landscaped terrace, offering open-air screenings with natural ventilation and passive cooling.&nbsp;

The inclusion of a “sensory walk”, an elevated boardwalk that threads through the site, suggests a rare investment in non-commercial, non-essential amenity: space for quiet movement that doesn’t double as access or traffic circulation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4402]

The gym and wellness centre, often relegated to a small ground-floor room in many builds, takes on more substance here. Residents have access to a fully equipped gym, as well as outdoor yoga areas and meditative zones that integrate greenery and natural light.&nbsp;

The Club Lounge is similarly designed to support multiple use cases, with a private dining terrace, kitchenette, workspace, and lockable wine storage. These aren’t superficial additions; their scale and spatial allocation indicate serious intent for frequent resident use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4391]

Importantly, Senso’s amenities are embedded within a site that spans more than 10,000 sqm, allowing for better separation between spaces and reduced noise spillover, a critical but often overlooked factor in high-density developments. This spatial generosity also enables multiple alfresco kitchens and communal terraces without compromising individual privacy or usable space.

While many developments make claims about lifestyle, few back it with this level of built infrastructure. Senso’s mix of dedicated fitness, wellness, social and passive green spaces suggests a conscious response to the post-pandemic shift in housing expectations, especially among owner-occupiers.&nbsp;

DASCO is one of several leading developers who have taken out Resilience Insurance's Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing buyers with a 10-year structural and waterproofing warranty, and giving them the ultimate peace of mind.

Senso is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

The outdoor amenities elevating life at Senso, Epping

Following the proposal by the Minns Labor Government to rezone Parramatta Road to create up to 8,000 new homes, prominent developer Ceerose has gone to the NSW Gov to increase the density of its new mixed-use residential building in Leichhardt.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/ceerose">Ceerose</a>, founded by Edward Doueihi nearly three decades ago, has filed plans for 154 apartments above ground-floor retail at 307-315 Parramatta Road, a key corner site near Norton Street, the main high street strip in Leichhardt.

It's an upsize from the previously approved scheme of 63 apartments across a seven-storey building.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ba1ae75b-5f08-43fb-b8d5-3de6d9f6ef71" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.39%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yA3hBBLPH4ev7MsAE0_hieXeqiFqBUb7" />

The project is being advanced through the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway, with concurrent rezoning sought to facilitate the proposal. The 10-storey development would rise over a four-level basement and deliver two retail tenancies, one a larger-format offering and the other a smaller “hole in the wall” space, addressing the Parramatta Road frontage. 21 of the apartments are dedicated as affordable housing.

According to the Urban Design Report by Architecture AND, the scheme includes a podium and tower configuration, with a fine-grain, two-storey parapet street wall that references the traditional shopfront rhythm along the corridor. “An elegant tower form is proposed, combined with a characterful two storey frontage... articulating it as two related buildings, providing consistency with the rhythm and grain of Parramatta Road,” the report notes.

The residential component is split across two slender towers set back from the street edge, a design move aimed at preserving solar access and reducing perceived bulk. This massing strategy also seeks to improve residential amenity by focusing scale toward the quieter northern interface, away from Parramatta Road’s noise and pollution.

<img alt="Ceerose" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="347f2f8f-5d36-4388-b40a-2e77380b9c19" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-04%20at%2010.31.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xvyUE2ujT1lzivXTo.mHBJFF4SmfgLtz" />

Architecture AND has worked with Ceerose on previous Inner West projects, and cites a deep familiarity with the local character. Their design draws heavily on context, heritage, and sunlight access considerations, and engages with the Inner West Council’s “Our Fairer Future” strategic planning framework.

The site spans 2,712 sqm and is located near key intersections with Catherine Street, Hay Street, and Redmond Street. It adjoins a public carpark to the north and is within walking distance of Stanmore and Petersham stations. It is also flagged in state and local planning strategies, including the Parramatta Road Corridor Urban Transformation Strategy, as a suitable candidate for increased density.

Ceerose recently completed The Alex Collective on McEvoy Street in Alexandria, Abbie's Lane in Annandale, and the award-winning Munro House in Elizabeth Bay.

The Parramatta Road corridor is coming to life with the proposed rezoning which is serviced by a significant number of bus, light rail and train routes.

Deicorp is progressing with its $1.8 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kings-bay-village-five-dock-53-75-queens-road-five-dock-nsw-2046">Kings Bay Village</a> precinct on Parramatta Road in Five Dock, as is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/toga-to-push-on-with-five-dock-mixed-use-masterplan">TOGA further down the street</a>. Those two projects alone will bring nearly 2,000 new homes to Parramatta Road.

First look: Ceerose plots mixed-use Leichhardt development on Parramatta Road

North Sydney's landmark 'SBS Building' on Alfred Street is set to be demolished to make way for a new mixed-use residential tower in the booming North Sydney.

Commercial property group FiveX is behind the plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">39-storey tower</a>, the latest project to advance under the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

They are proposing 184 apartments above retail spaces, which will replace the existing 20-storey commercial building. FiveX was set up more than five decades ago by Joshua and Marko Berger. It is currently led by Joshua's son Lesli.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower at 275 Alfred Street, North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2efa0980-53fa-4cca-9f9e-9c3c845d4746" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_0.png?VersionId=y_YyPMq3NQLfYRs84pP4os9UgWiMLp75" />

According to the Architectural Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a>, the slender tower form has been deliberately designed to respect the site's transitional setting at the southern gateway to the North Sydney CBD, where high-rise towers give way to lower-scale residential precincts.

"The slender tower form and articulated podium establish a respectful relationship with nearby heritage and low rise buildings, including the Whaling Road Heritage Conservation Area,” the architecture firm noted, adding that the tower “completes a missing link in the urban fabric” while enhancing the Alfred Street streetscape.

The proposed building will include a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, with 15 percent of the gross residential floor area allocated as affordable housing. There is an agreement already in place that those apartments will be managed by Evolve Housing.

The project aligns with broader state housing objectives, including the National Housing Accord target of delivering 1.2 million new homes by 2029. The Scoping Report filed with the State Significant Development Application (SSDA) suggests the site "presents no impediments to rapid delivery,” with construction able to commence within 12 months of receiving consent.

North Sydney has been one of the most popular suburbs in Sydney for new and off the plan apartment development, but hasn't had the supply to keep up with demand, until recently.

AURA by Aqualand was, for a long time, the only off the plan apartment building on the market. That completed last year, and has sold the majority of its 386 luxury apartments. Recently ALAND launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-173-179-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> on the same street, selling over $100 million within just a few hours of its launch, while developer CASA also launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-mclaren-north-sydney-45-mclaren-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The McLaren</a>&nbsp;in the same precinct.

First look: Fivex plans 39-storey residential tower in booming North Sydney

Hotspot

<html><body>
I think there’s a strong argument that the strongest property market in Australia right now is not Sydney, nor Melbourne, but the Queensland regional city of Toowoomba.
This is the market which has not only delivered outstanding growth in the past year but has the credentials to keep on doing it. It has one of the nation’s most vibrant local economies, it has the lowest unemployment in the land, it’s affordable, it has above-average rental yields and there is a massive infrastructure spend under way.
That’s an investment cake with lots of tasty ingredients. And the icing on the cake is the resources activity in the nearby Surat Basin.
A question I always ask when a location is being boosted by exceptional circumstances is this: if all that activity suddenly stopped, would the location still be a good investment?
In the case of Toowoomba, this means: would the cake still be tasty without the icing? If all the coal seam gas and related activity stopped tomorrow, would Toowoomba still be a good buy?
The answer, unequivocally, is yes.
Toowoomba has long been an important regional centre. It’s Queensland’s largest inland city and it has that most important of ingredients, economic diversity – including agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, health &amp; community services, construction and government administration.
I’ve been shouting about Toowoomba for several years now and recently the city has been widely recognised for its many qualities.
A 2012 report by the Queensland Chamber of Commerce and Industry rated the <a href="/news">Toowoomba</a> region as the backbone of the state economy. The chamber’s Queensland Pulse Report ranked the south-west region, centred on Toowoomba, as the leader in all key criteria except one. The region led the state on business confidence, general business conditions, sales and revenue, employment levels and capital spending.
A 2013 report by Suncorp Bank rated Toowoomba as the employment capital of Australia. It had the lowest unemployment rate at 1.9%, ahead of Darwin 2.1% and Canberra 2.9%. This was reinforced in a September 2013 report which found Toowoomba’s unemployment rate was 1.5 percentage points below the national average. Toowoomba was also rated the third most “family friendly” of Australia’s 30 largest cities.
Affordability and strong rental returns are a big part of the Toowoomba appeal for invesetors. The standard house purchase is something in the high $200,000s or low $300,000s, with apartments in the mid to high $200,000s. It’s fairly easy to find 6% gross yields on houses and 6.5% on units. Vacancies are consistently low.
According to Australian Property Monitors, there has been exceptional capital growth in the past 12 months. Most suburbs have had double-digit growth in their median prices, with several recording 15% to 18%.
Prospects for ongoing performance are strong. The infrastructure spend is considerable and there is the bonus of resources activity via the coal seam gas which is feeding the new processing plants at Gladstone.
The Wellcamp Airport is well advanced in construction, there is massive investment in roads (including the $1.6 billion second range crossing, which has state and federal funding), there are plans for two major new rail links to serve the resources sector, a $300 million convention centre is in the offing and there are upgrades to medical facilities including Toowoomba Hospital.
Property developers are active, with projects that include a $350 million re-development of inner-city retail facilities, major industrial estates and an array of housing and apartment projects.
In terms of what many investors would see as the ideal investment venue – affordable prices, strong rental returns and great future prospects, underpinned by a vibrant local economy – it doesn’t get much better than Toowoomba.
You can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
 
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Strongest property market right now isn't where you think

<html><body>
The Toowoomba residential property market remained steady throughout the first half of 2019 following a general decline since the peak of activity at the end of 2013, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that although sales activity has been steady across the board, the market has continued to be multi-speed and property specific.
"There has been little consistency with variations in sale prices and buyer interest across the established suburbs," the valuation firm stated.
"The prestige market however, has been performing strongly, particularly in the eastern suburbs as has the upper end of the rural residential lifestyle market."
A recent over $1 million sale was five bedroom architect designed home in Middle Ridge.
Situated in a quiet cul-de-sac, the house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-middle+ridge-131307442" target="_blank"> 8 Daniells Close </a>comprises master suite with walk in robe, four additional built-in bedrooms, open plan living area, and kitchen with designer cabinetry.
It's located close to Gabbinbar Homestead, Middle Ridge Golf Course, Middle Ridge Primary School, Gabbinbar Primary School, parks, restaurants, cafes, boutiques and day-to-day services.
<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/2019/7/1/middle%20ridge%20.jpg" alt="">
The median sale price for houses across the Toowoomba Regional Council LGA has displayed little growth over the past four years, sitting at approximately $380,000 at the end of 2018, up from $375,000 in June 2015.
According to the HTW report, another key indicator of the steady property market is the volume of property sales.
In the six months ending December 2018, there were approximately 1,320 transactions across the Toowoomba Regional Council LGA.
This is slightly less than the same period one year earlier, when approximately 1,375 sales were recorded and further highlights the steady residential property market.
"The unit market has followed a declining trend, with low sales volumes following the oversupply of unit products that became apparent throughout 2016.
"Land sale volumes have continued to decline since a peak in mid 2015," the valuation firm noted. 
Toowoomba has seen an explosion of retirement village developments in recent years, ranging from medium density multi-level projects to low density detached dwellings.
These projects are spread right across the city, from Glenvale in the west to Highfields in the north, with more projects being planned.
The report suggests that this retirement living boom could be a driving factor in the low volume of land sales and sluggish level of housing transactions.
"The surprising factor is that residential vacancy rates continue to decline," the valuation firm said. 
In postcode 4350, the vacancy rate was just 2% as at April 2019.
A circa 1950 house in postcode 4350 has recently been sold for $350,700.
Set on a 908 square metre block, the brick house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-east+toowoomba-129059814" target="_blank"> 10 Eton Street, East Toowoomba </a>comes with three bedrooms, spacious kitchen, open brick fireplace, and double hung windows.
It's just moments from the city centre, Queen's Park, cafes and restaurants. 
<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/2019/7/1/east%20toowoomba.jpg" alt="">
"This is considered tight and well below the balanced market level of 3%.
"Should this low level be sustained or continue to decline further, rental rates are likely to come under pressure.
"The steady market conditions currently being experienced in the residential property market across Toowoomba are expected to continue throughout the remainder of 2019." 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/1/toowoomba%20vacancy%20rates.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge
<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/2019/7/1/toowoomba%20vacancy%20rates.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Toowoomba prestige market shows strong permanence: HTW residential 

<html><body>
A four bedroom one bathroom house in the Toowoomba suburb of Newtown, Queensland has been sold on behalf of the mortgagee for $210,000.
Angela and David Harms of Success Realty held the listing.
Last sold in 2001, the property transacted for $97,000.
Situtated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-newtown-130165382" target="_blank">63 Jimbour Drive</a>, the home was previously listed in 2017 for $265,000.
The property had been listed for February 2 auction.
Set on 600 square metres the property is currently tenanted for an undisclosed weekly rent.
The property is one of a group of 37 properties Success Realty was marketing for mortgagee sale.
Others mortgagee listings in Newtown that Success Realty sold include <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-newtown-130165118" target="_blank">4 Higgins Street</a> and <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-newtown-130165214" target="_blank">77a Taylor Street</a>.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/newtown-qld-4305">Newtown, Queensland</a> is $310,000 according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as 2.8%.
</body></html>

Toowoomba mortgagee house sold at auction for $210,000

<html><body>
Toowoomba's residential property market is stable but lacking consistency.
The Toowoomba residential property market has continued to remain steady throughout the first half of 2018 following a general decline since the peak of activity at the end of 2013, and although sales activity has been steady across the board, the market has continued to be multispeed and property specific, according to the June report form valuation firm Herron Todd White.
There has been little consistency with variations in sale prices and buyer interest across the established suburbs.
The report suggests that, the prestige market however, has been performing strongly, particularly in the eastern suburbs as has the upper end of the rural residential lifestyle market.
The median sale price has displayed some growth over the past 3 years, currently sitting at approximately $390,000 up from $375,000 in June 2015, the report noted.
"As of April 2018, there were approximately 1,740 houses and units listed for sale in postcode 4350 and with this is being near a 6 year high, it does not bode well for price growth in the short term." stated the HTW valuers
"The unit market has followed a similar trend to the housing market, with low sales volumes following the oversupply of unit product that became apparent throughout 2016."
Land sales volumes steadily increased in the 3 years between 2012 and 2015; peaking at 1,063 sales in 2015, while in 2016, 681 sales were recorded and then 677 in 2017.
"In contrast, vacancy rates across Toowoomba are approximately 2.3% as at April 2018, which is considered tight and below the balanced market level of 3%", noted the valuers at HTW.
"The Toowoomba Second Range Crossing project under construction appears to have assisted in maintaining low vacancy rates, with many workers residing in the region."
The valuing firm forecasts that the low vacancy rate and substantial infrastructure projects in the pipeline may reignite interest in Toowoomba residential property from investors although the steady market conditions currently being experienced in the residential property market are expected to continue throughout the remainder of 2018.
</body></html>

Toowoomba's residential property market stable but lacking consistency: HTW 

<html><body>
Quest Apartment Hotels has reopened its doors in Toowoomba, following nine months of restoration work.
The hotel was damaged by fire last June, after a blaze broke out at an adjacent property. 
Building owner FKG commenced the $5 million restoration works after the blaze, replacing soft furnishings, broken windows and glass, electrical, plumbing and wiring along with fresh paint and carpet throughout, after smoke and heat ravaged the entire eastern face of the hotel.
Quest Toowoomba franchisee, Cynthia Rice has been with Quest since 2003.
“The former Church of Christ building is of significant cultural value to the local community, representing part of Toowoomba’s history, while having a wonderful aesthetic. We couldn’t be happier to have restored the property back to its former glory,” she said.
Located at 133 Margaret Street, the property features 74 apartments in total – a combination of studio apartments with kitchenettes, along with one, two and three bedroom apartments with kitchen and laundry facilities and a separate living/dining area. 
</body></html>

Quest Toowoomba officially reopens its doors

<html><body>
<div title="Page 43">
<div>
<div>
<div>
Being one of the more affordable regional locations in Australia, Toowoomba and surrounding suburbs offer an opportunity for many different types of home owners.
With various industry and job opportunities, a central hub location, a diverse property market and varying segments, there are many different home owners whether FIrst home owners, families, or empty nesters, the valuation firm, Herron Todd White recently noted.
While lending has tightened and property ownership has become more difficult for the next generation, there are still good opportunities in the Toowoomba region to become a home owner, HTW suggested.
Strategies such as joint ownership can also bring affordability to young people getting their foot in the ownership door and out of the rental market. 
<div title="Page 43">
<div>
<div>
<div>
The typical product attractive to first home buyers tends to be in the sub $450,000 segment, being new 2- and 3-bedroom units as well as 3- and 4-bedroom houses located in active investor areas in the western suburbs of Toowoomba and satellite suburbs such as Cambooya and Wyreema. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Non-locals account for the majority of investors in Toowoomba, according to Herron Todd White’s recent report.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
The property investment firm says that locals mostly purchase to occupy.
“Investors have generally been attracted to low maintenance properties such as near new 4-bedroom 2-bathroom 2-car houses and 6-bedroom 4-bathroom 2-car duplex pairs.
“Majority of the investor market at present appears to be non-local investors with most locals purchasing to occupy.
“The majority of the investor market tends to operate in the sub $400,000 segment for houses and sub $550,000 for duplex pairs.
“In the current market it’s unknown whether investors are favouring strategies to seek higher yields or focusing on capital gains.
“With a slow moving market at present, investors are possibly looking to use a mixture of the two strategies,” the report stated.
Suburbs such as Glenvale and Cranley are hotspots for investors over the past few years Herron Todd White advises.
“Some of the western suburbs such as Glenvale and Cranley, and nearby neighbouring suburbs including Wyreema and Cambooya have tended to be hot spots for investor activity over the past few years.
“This is most likely a result of vacant space able to be developed; with other suburbs to capacity and unable to spread.
“The investor market has been strong in the Toowoomba area over the past few years with the contributing boost in infrastructure and developments recently completed and still underway.
“These projects have brought workers to the area requiring accommodation.
“It could be argued that the high investor activity recently experienced in the Toowoomba area had a negative impact on the region with an apparent oversupply situation, rise in vacancy rates and a reduction in rents.
“On the other hand this has also helped bring jobs, housing and affordability,” the report advised.
A 600 sqm block of land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-residential+land-qld-glenvale-201838674" target="_blank">591 Greenwattle Street</a>, Glenvale (above) has sold for $160,000.
A 4,000 sqm block of land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-qld-glenvale-201771374" target="_blank">202 Drayton-Wellcamp Road</a>, Glenvale (below) was listed for $225,000, with the update now showing offers above $210,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/08/04/202%20Drayton-Wellcamp%20Road.jpg" alt="">
Interest in Toowoomba and surrounding areas, however, has slowed Herron Todd White warns.
“Investor interest in Toowoomba and surrounding areas has significantly slowed in the past two years, resulting in a gradual correction of the market with vacancy rates and rents stabilising.
“People looking to invest in the Toowoomba area could consider purchasing in older suburbs closer to the CBD, shops and services such as Centenary Heights, Darling Heights, Kearneys Spring, Newtown, North and South Toowoomba.
“These areas could see higher yields with proximity for convenience and have greater potential for capital growth as these suburbs have nowhere to spread,” the report warned.
</body></html>

Vacant land in Toowoomba's west attracting investors: HTW

<html><body>
Toowoomba’s property market continues to perform strongly, according to REIQ's latest Queensland Market Monitor’s quarterly report.
Over the medium term, Toowoomba has been a strong regional performer with the annual median sale price growing 21.1% for houses and 25.7% for units.
This ranks Toowoomba as the third-strongest performing regional market for housing and the best performing regional market for units in the state.
In a climate where regional residential markets have been severely challenged, this is a noteworthy result.
The March quarter delivered positive results with the median house price growing 1.3% to $355,000 and the median unit price grew a solid 2% to $309,500.
Toowoomba is one of the few regions in Queensland favoured with large infrastructure investment.
The $1.6 billion Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, the Gore Highway Interchange construction, the Murphys Creek Road and Postmans Ridge Road realignment, commencing this year.
Toowoomba is a steady market for both houses and units with a solid pipeline of projects in the region.
However, there is an increase in the supply of houses and units to this market which could affect the equilibrium of the market and its positive outlook over the coming months.
Toowoomba’s house market slipped of 0.8% over the past 12 months, to an annual median house price of $350,000 for March.
Over the medium term (five years), the housing market increased 21.1% or the equivalent of 3.9% per annum, from the annual median of $289,000 in March 2012.
There are some signs that demand is slowing.
The number of quarterly sales fell 2.4% from 551 in September to 538 in December.
Preliminary data shows a reduction to 426 transactions for the March quarter.
The most-active sale price for houses sits in transactions below $350,000.
Toowoomba is the second-most affordable local government area in the southeast corner, following Ipswich.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.41%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.41%20am.jpg" alt="">
The median days on market increased 10 days from 44 days in February 2016 to 54 days in February 2017.
The median vendor discounting, on the other hand, remained steady at 4.8%.
The number of listings increased significantly by 31.9% from 3906 listings in February 2016 to 5151 in February 2017.
This increase is just a reflect on of the growing supply of housing in the region.
The impact of the increasing supply on the market dynamics and median sale price will be monitored.
The unit market performed well this quarter reaching a quarterly growth of 2% to a median price of $309,500.
This growth partially compensated previous quarterly losses and helped control the dip on the annual median sale price of 0.6% with the annual median sale price falling to $308,000 for March 2017 from $310,000 for March 2016.
Over the medium term, Toowoomba remains the star performer for the unit market with the annual median sale price increasing from $245,000 in March 2012 to $308,000 in March 2017.
The size of the Toowoomba unit market is small, only about 500-600 sales per year. A comparison between the volume of sales in September and December 2016 demonstrates that demand remains steady with quarterly sales.
The most active price range for units is for transactions between $250,000 and $350,000, which aligns with the median sale price range.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.50%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.22.50%20am.jpg" alt="">
Market trend indicators for the 12 months to February 2017 show a slower market for units with the median days on market increasing to 80 days and the median vendor discounting reaching 5.1% for February 2017.
The number of listings reported a significant increase of 36.5% from 619 listings for February 2016 to 845 listings for February 2017.
The impact on the market equilibrium and pricing is still unknown and will be assessed when data for the June quarter is available.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-centenary+heights-125601038" target="_blank">147 Ramsay Street</a>, Centenary Heights (above) has been listed for over $349,000.
It was last sold in 2006 for $235,000 and the land was sold in 1984 for $22,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-middle+ridge-125015022" target="_blank">6/77 Bouganvillea Drive</a>, Middle Ridge (below) has been listed for over $299,000.
It last sold in 2012 for $316,500.
<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/2017/06/16/6_77%20Bouganvillea%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Toowoomba ranked third-strongest performing regional housing market in Queensland

<html><body>
The residential housing market in South East Queensland has experienced stellar growth, with hotspots within the state popping up ahead of the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games, Stage 2 of Gold Coast Light Rail, and the refurbishment of Coomera Town Centre according to Choice Homes.
Areas such as Ipswich, Beaudesert and Logan are coming on strong, according to their latest Urban Appeal report.
Troy Knight, company director, Choice Homes, said the Ipswich market is warming up and there’s plenty of data to prove it.
“The city has one of the fastest growing populations in Australia, increasing by 700 percent in the last decade," he said
“The region is hugely popular with families due to its retail and family amenities, local employment opportunities and great educational and transport infrastructure.
“The Queensland Government has earmarked Ipswich and its surrounding suburbs as a major growth corridor.
“Private and government investment in the area, including the hotly anticipated $200 million upgrade of the Ipswich motorway, RAAF Amberley base, $190 million railway maintenance centre and $1 billion Ipswich CBD revitalisation program, is further driving demand.
“A vast array of new roads, transport links and accessible residential communities are starting an important new chapter in the development of Queensland’s fastest-growing city.
“These infrastructure initiatives, also a catalyst for job creation and commercial development, will add value to property in the surrounding areas.”
The report notes Beaudesert will continue to grow and attract more people in the area with low vacancy rates, affordable housing and easy access to the metropolitan areas of the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
It said local population is forecast by the Scenic Rim Council to triple by 2036 as the region emerges as a significant satellite of Brisbane and the Gold Coast, both less than an hour away.
“Much of the city’s growth is underpinned by the Bromelton State Development Area, a 15,000ha area less than 6km from Beaudesert,” the report said.
“Included in the SDA is the Bromelton State Industrial Park, an 1,800ha parcel that will deliver an estimated 18,000 new jobs to the region.”
Troy Knight said Logan, situated between Brisbane to the north and Gold Coast to the south, is ideally placed for continued growth due to its central geographical location and available young workforce.
“The Logan area is about to embark on a major growth phase due to land availability,” he said.
“Median rental yields are showing market momentum, with 6.3 percent returns for houses.
“High-level growth is a result of affordable properties with above-average rental yields, widespread transport links, a diverse mix of industries providing employment and a growing economy.
“Many of the city’s older suburbs have been revitalised through urban renewal projects, with a new emphasis on social elements – such as dining, entertainment, recreation and cultural diversity – rounding out the city’s new image.”
For more information from Choice Homes, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.choicehomes.com.au/communitydetails/5700433" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Hotspots in South East Queensland residential property market

<html><body>
Pimpama in Queensland has been pinpointed as Australia's number one housing hotspot, based on its performance during 2015/16.
It is a suburb in the northern part of the City of Gold Coast, located on the Pacific Motorway 30 kilometres north of Surfers Paradise.
In second place was Sydney's Cobbitty-Leppington area, followed by Palmerston-South in the Northern Territory, according to HIA's latest Population &amp; Residential Building Hotspots 2017 report released on Sunday.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.47.43%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.47.43%20AM.png" alt="">
Population in these areas grew by more than the 1.4 percent national average during 2015/16 and had at least $150 million worth of residential building approved, HIA said. 
Palmerston-South in the NT in third place in the national Top 20. Nine of the top 20 hotspots are located in New South Wales. 
“With 2016 representing a record year for new home building activity across Australia, the housing industry has been supporting economic activity in localities up and down the country. The good news on housing is not confined to the major capital cities – today’s report shows that regional Australia is also peppered with housing Hotspots,” commented HIA Senior Economist Shane Garrett. 
“In terms of its economic contribution, the housing industry is truly unique. Today’s report identifies 86 separate areas in every state and territory across Australia where residential building activity is acting as the engine of economic activity, employment and development. Small businesses are particular beneficiaries of housing activity,” concluded Shane Garrett. 
Nationally, an area qualifies as a Hotspot if its population grew by more than the 1.4 percent national average during 2015/16 and at least $150 million worth of residential building was approved during the year.
Pimpama's latest residential development is Halcyon Greens, a $300 million masterplanned community for over 50s.
 
</body></html>

Gold Coast's Pimpama pinpointed as Australia's home building hotspot by HIA 

<html><body>
Century 21 Australasia chairman Charles Tarbey believes property investment in Sydney's Rouse Hill, the Sunshine Coast, Melbourne and Perth may hold good prospects for future investment.
Writing on Peter Switzer's Switzer Daily, Tarbey said Melbourne apartments and homes in Perth will be areas to watch.
He said more and more Australians are turning to property as their preferred asset class and taking advantage of the current low interest rate environment to invest in the relative security of bricks and mortar.
"A question I am often asked concerns the best places to invest as people eagerly seek to discover the hotspots for their next property purchase. 
The nature of the real estate cycle means that markets are consistently changing and it is difficult to predict movements with certainty.
"Prudent property investors will be researching, looking at data, engaging with professionals and putting all of this together to make the most informed decision possible for their personal circumstances. 
"Here are a few of my thoughts on locations in Australia that may hold good prospects for property purchases moving forward."
Melbourne
"According to CoreLogic, Melbourne experienced a 1.5 eprcent lift in prices over the month of February, and a 13.1 percent increase for year-on-year," he said.
"The state of Victoria as a whole is a strong market, however Melbourne in particular holds good prospects over the long term as a place for investment due to the strength of the economy and the prices of properties compared to similar property brackets in its northern neighbour, NSW. 
"Apartments are steadily coming on to the market, but at a slightly greater rate than demand. Unit approvals have risen 32.2 percent compared to a year ago according to ABS data from January 2017, so investors should remain wary of unit purchases that don’t meet their strict investment rules. 
"I believe that Melbourne remains a place where property exists in a good price range for such an iconic city, which may mean it endures as an attractive and relatively safe investment destination when taking a long-term view."
Rouse Hill and Surrounding Areas
"Rouse Hill sits around 42 kilometres north-west of Sydney and has quickly emerged as an area with good prospects for property investment," he said.
"CoreLogic data shows the median sale price of houses has increased 53.6 percent over the past five year, equating to a compound annual growth rate of around 9 percent. 
"Infrastructure is often a valuable indication of a suburb with good investment prospects as accessibility is enhanced. With construction of the Sydney Metro North West rail project well underway, we have seen many new developments of both houses and apartments emerging in the area. 
"Homes selling with million dollar price tags have become more frequent as people are attracted by qualities such as the family-friendly lifestyle found in Rouse Hill and surrounding areas, as well its location that is in relatively close proximity to the city. 
"With such a rapid growth in prices of late many might be wondering whether they have missed the boat on Rouse Hill and surrounding areas. I believe there are still suburbs around Rouse Hill that hold value for investors and it is hard not to believe that Rouse Hill itself won’t continue to enjoy growth over the long term as the train line begins operation and this micro economy, fuelled by the North West commercial district, comes into its own."
Sunshine Coast
"Stretching from Caloundra up to Noosa Heads, the Sunshine Coast region has been on the radars of many Australians," he said.  
"The area offers a great coastal lifestyle, which makes it an attractive destination that can satisfy the needs of those looking for a new home, rental property or holiday home. 
"According to CoreLogic’s regional report for the September 2016 quarter, the Sunshine Coast was one of the top performers in Queensland, along with the Gold Coast, and experienced lifts in both house and unit values. 
"Median values across Queensland’s Sunshine Coast rose by 4.1 percent for houses and 3.0 percent for units over the year ending September 2016.
"The region may hold good opportunities for investors as properties are still relatively cheap compared to other markets, the region is fairly iconic for both Australians and international visitors, and the area’s relatively close proximity to Brisbane should see it be a desirable location for Queenslanders for many years to come. 
"However, if the market encounters an influx of interest, there runs the risk that it can result in an oversupply of rental stock. Investors should remain cautious of this and ensure they are borrowing within a predetermined budget to avoid any financial shock should they encounter difficulty in attracting and keeping a good tenant."
Perth
"The Western Australian market has been struggling for a while now as it encountered the effects of a downturn in mining activity. This has been particularly prominent in comparison to other state markets that have been experiencing continuously strong growth," he said.
"CoreLogic data showed that Perth home values have fallen by -0.9 percent over the three months to February 2017. While prices are still experiencing downward movement in many areas, this trend may begin to attract the interest of investors looking for value laden purchases. 
"Investors may be able to secure property at a fair price, and should be watching areas in and around Perth as its potential to stabilise is good and any large increase in mining activity can see that property market explode very quickly."
 
</body></html>

Hotspot

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Hotspot

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

The latest real estate & off the plan properties & news, delivered to your inbox.