Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

House And Land

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Strong demand for house and land packages in Echuca is pushing the average price for these products up, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says there are opportunities for first time buyers in the $300,000 to $400,000 price bracket around Echuca, however the average house and land package is pushing closer to $400,000.
“Alternatives at the lower end of the market are units and town houses which are available for between $180,000 to $220,000 for basic units through to $300,000 to $375,000 for relatively modern three bedroom, two bathroom townhouses.,” the report says.
“It is worth considering the demand for rentals and potential gains from depreciation for first home buyers who may look to retain their first properties as an investment, if and when they are ready to move on.”
A house and land package for a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-echuca-123371626?listingType=buy" target="_blank">Lot 40 Park Avanue</a>, Echuca (above) has been listed for $337,500.
Similarly a house and land package for a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-echuca-124729842?listingType=buy" target="_blank">15 Magnolia Way</a>, Echuca (below) has been listed for $351,878.
<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/2017/03/15/15%20Magnolia%20Way.jpg" alt="">
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Prices for Echuca house and land packages rising: HTW

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House and land option in outer western Sydney should be on the radar for first home buyers as off the plan units, in a wide variety of locations, are unable to achieve their purchase price upon settlement, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says many of these units were originally purchased in stronger market conditions, particularly in 2015.
“This could be disastrous for a first home buyer after saving for a large deposit and having to come up with more money to settle,” the report says.
HTW says yields have tightened across the board with Sydney recording record low returns at 2.8% for houses and 3.8% for units, according to CoreLogic data.
It points to significant price growth and high investor participation that has resulted in a flooded rental market dropping rents.
“Over the last few years many tenants have exited the rental market and become owner-occupiers thanks to the low interest rates and not wanting to miss out on capital growth, this has resulted in additional rental vacancy’s hitting the market putting downward pressure on rents.
“A threat for investment are highly geared investors requiring a strong rental return to service their mortgage, an oversupply of rentals in some sectors of Sydney may result in a number of forced sales of investment properties due to serviceability issues.
“If too many sales occur at the one time this may result in a drop in values.”
The firm warns that this is a particular concern for large scale unit complexes with high investor participation rates.
“If you can’t access the property market the traditional way we have seen in the past other methods that may also work.”
The firm suggests joining forces with close friends or family to ‘group buy’ a home, buying an investment property interstate or sourcing support from their parents as alternative methods, albeit with their own pros and cons to consider.
A house and land package at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-gregory+hills-201753326" target="_blank">Lot 462 Yass Street</a>, Gregory Hills (above) has been listed for $600,000.
Similarly a house and land package for a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cobbitty-124837746" target="_blank">Lot 1335 Goodluck Circuit</a>, Cobbitty (below) has been listed for $644,400.
<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/2017/03/15/Lot%201335%20Goodluck%20Circuit.jpg" alt="">
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House and land a safer bet than off the plan units for Sydney first home buyers: HTW

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One of the surprise performers over the past few months has been Brisbane’s fringe suburbs according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says there is a continued shift towards house and land packages – particularly from investors scared off by the threat of a looming unit oversupply.
“While no-one is calling a boom for this once very sleepy sector, activity has been strong,” the firm says.
“Our team are also noting gains in the western corridor towards the Ipswich region as facilities and infrastructure continue to attract business and residents.
“Some of the bigger estates in this patch are seeing 30 to 40 land sales per month – and most developers would call this a roaring success.”
HTW says this is in contrast to the prestige property which operates outside the constraints impacting other price points due to many high-end buyers being cashed up and immune from interest rate variations.
“When the right buyer meets the perfect property, record prices can result.
“We will probably see a few more of these benchmark sales occur in 2017.” 
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-stafford+heights-124462038" target="_blank">Stafford Heights </a>(above) was recently sold for $553,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-mount+gravatt+east-124536170" target="_blank">5 Boambillee Street</a>, Mount Gravatt East (below) was sold for $775,000.
<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/2017/02/20/5%20Boambillee%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Unit oversupply forces Brisbane investors shift focus to house and land: HTW

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Clarence Property managing director Peter Fahey says around 70% of people who have purchased in the new Epiq Lennox Head development to date are from the Lennox-Ballina area.
The developer Clarence Property claims that it is the largest privately funded civil works project between the NSW mid-north coast and Queensland border.
The $200 million development will create up to 580 jobs over the next five years, Fahey said.
It will deliver up to 335 jobs during its construction phase, with a further 245 ongoing jobs to be created at and supporting the project's planned shopping precinct.
Construction is complete on the sold out first stage of the community, comprising 51 homesites and sporting fields.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Epiq Lennox Head buyers are 70% local 

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Vacant seaside land at Diamond Beach, with approved subdivision, is for sale.
The properties are located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-diamond+beach-502139634" target="_blank">Lot 6, 310-314 Anniversary Drive, Diamond Beach</a>.
The block covers a total 10.92 hectares and is situated just meters from the pristine shores of Diamond Beach.
It is a 10 minute drive from the resort towns of Old Bar and Forster, some three and a half hours north of Sydney.
The land has rural residential subdivision approval for 89 lots.
The property is offered through Unique Estate agent Nicolette van Wijngaarden.
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Coastal land holding at Diamond Beach for sale

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Melbourne-based property group and fund manager OpenCorp has acquired new sites to host its latest crowdfunded house and land developments.
Located in Greenvale, 20 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD, the 168-lot subdivision site is positioned close to the company’s sold out Umbra development. It will be the 23rd project OpenCorp has funded through a property development fund.
Currently under construction, Umbra already is projecting good returns for investors. OpenCorp is currently anticipating a total return of 110% against the forecast of 58%. Its 41% internal rate of return sits against the forecast of 30%.
Like Umbra, investors in the Greenvale development would subscribe to an OpenCorp managed property development fund to participate as equity partners in the new $46 million project.
Based on the success of Umbra, 70% of the $11.4 million of the equity being raised for the development has been committed by one major Melbourne investor.
“They participated in the first Greenvale development and were eager to invest in the subsequent similar development,” says OpenCorp director Allister Lewison (pictured above centre).
OpenCorp have also closed its capital raising offer with the $3.5 million fund being considerably over-subscribed.
The new development fund is forecast to provide investors a total return of over 54%, or an internal rate of return close to 23%.
“Our development funds provide a great way for family offices, high net worth clients and retail investors to invest in developments when they don’t have the time, money or skills to do so themselves,” Lewison says.
“Our 10 year track record combined with average returns of over 20% per annum are proving very popular with small and large investors, given the returns from other asset classes.”
The new Greenvale development is expected to attract first homebuyers seeking a site to build a family home at an affordable price point in anticipation of the City of Hume’s continued rapid growth.
“The Melbourne market continues to remain very robust for quality developments in the right catchments,” Lewison says.
“The sub markets in which we operate are very much focused on strong demand and supply fundamentals.”
Greenvale is located a 30 minute drive from the Melbourne CBD and 10 minutes from Tullamarine Airport. 
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Crowdfunding property developer OpenCorp acquires second Greenvale site

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The Royal Children’s Hospital secured $663,000 after Henley and Villawood Properties offered an auction property proceeds towards the hospital’s Good Friday Appeal.
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-dDdw7D1Ek" target="_blank">The property</a> was at Villawood Properties’ Trillium community in Mickleham.
There was spirited bidding for the home at the no reserve auction where all proceeds were donated to the hospital.
This Easter marked the Good Friday Appeal's 86th year of contribution to the Royal Children's Hospital.
The Henley home that sold to the Elsikmani family brings to approximately $4.4 million the amount raised for the hospital through this initiative since Villawood Properties’ involvement began seven years ago. 
At over 48 squares, this property featured four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and living areas and outdoor alfresco - all appointed with the highest quality of fixtures and fittings.
The Trillium community has a residents only facility Club Trillium which features a fully equipped gym, heated 25 metre lap pool, tennis courts, community gardens as well as a function room. 
The Royal Children’s Hospital secured $646,000 last year after Henley and Villawood Properties offered an auction property proceeds towards the hospital’s Good Friday Appeal.
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Villawood and Henley combine to raise funds for the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday appeal

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If you want to buy your land and build your new home right now, you are entitled to do exactly that with constructed, titled land set to be released on March 19 at Stonybrook, Hillside in Melbourne’s north west.
“The Melbourne residential property market is experiencing large residential subdivisions pre-selling allotments that won’t be ready to build on for 12 months. We are launching on Saturday with titled allotments ready for house construction to start immediately. We know from other projects in Melbourne that there are many purchasers who can’t afford to wait for land to be titled before they can build," said Mark Erskine, director of Bendigo-based property developer YourLand Developments.
Among the many reasons buyers can't wait include a growing family or needing to move quickly, he added. However, in the regional market where the company also operates, buyers expect their land to be titled or titled quickly once they buy.
“We have witnessed first-hand the huge demand for new homes across Melbourne and noticed that buyers are keen to secure their future as soon as it becomes available," he said.
"Buying land off the plan suits those who are happy to wait for the title to come through, however, if you don’t it can be a source of frustration and many buyers find it difficult to plan around.
"Stonybrook has shifted the timing for pre-selling allotments to the later stages of the process to focus on providing buyers with certainty on timing.” 
Also helping is the the surrounding residential community, with shopping centres, schools, parks and public transport all close.
“Unlike a lot of new house and land developments, residents coming to Stonybrook don’t have to worry about when all the lifestyle amenities will be delivered, they are already here to embrace and enjoy,” said Erskine.
Stony Hill Creek, one of Melbourne’s most significant waterways, was reconfigured to create a scenic lake in the heart of the development.
"Having partnered with four key builders at Stonybrook, we are already experiencing a high level of interest because the builders have clients looking for titled land, so they can build right now,” he said.
 
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Titled land set to be released on Saturday in Melbourne's Stonybrook

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The Real Estate Institute of Western Australia has listed the top ten most affordable suburbs in Perth rated on median house price for the year to June 2015 with no changes from the 2014 list. Medina, Calista, Camillo, Hillman and Armadale round out the top five.
1. Medina
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE </th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$258,750</td>
<td>$289,000</td>
<td>$318,125</td>
<td>$375,000  </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
2. Calista
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$287,750 </td>
<td>$320,000 </td>
<td>$349,000 </td>
<td>$613,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/calista/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Calista - reiwa.com"></a> 3. Camillo
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$290,000 </td>
<td>$320,000 </td>
<td>$353,000</td>
<td>$462,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/camillo/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Camillo - reiwa.com"></a> 4. Hillman
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$300,000 </td>
<td>$320,000 </td>
<td>$340,625</td>
<td>$400,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
5. Armadale
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE </th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$295,000 </td>
<td>$325,000 </td>
<td>$359,250</td>
<td>$850,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/armadale/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Armadale - reiwa.com"></a> 6. Parmelia
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$301,375 </td>
<td>$325,250 </td>
<td>$355,000 </td>
<td>$445,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/parmelia/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Parmelia - reiwa.com"></a> 7. Brookdale
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$297,500 </td>
<td>$330,000 </td>
<td>$357,500 </td>
<td>$401,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
8. Orelia
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE </th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$300,000 </td>
<td>$340,000 </td>
<td>$409,000 </td>
<td>$535,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/orelia/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Orelia - reiwa.com"></a> 9. Cooloongup
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE </th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$311,000</td>
<td>$340,000 </td>
<td>$379,000 </td>
<td>$549,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/cooloongup/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Cooloongup - reiwa.com"></a> 10. Leda
<table class="data-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th>LOWER QUARTILE</th>
<th>MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE</th>
<th>UPPER QUARTILE</th>
<th>HIGHEST SALE PRICE</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>$318,500 </td>
<td>$340,000 </td>
<td>$390,000 </td>
<td>$480,000 </td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<a href="https://reiwa.com.au/for-sale/leda/" target="_blank" title="View properties for sale in Leda - reiwa.com"> </a>
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The ten most affordable suburbs in Perth

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The soon-to-come restrictions on lending on house and land packages for owner occupiers and investors is going to trigger unfortunate pain in Sydney's greenfield housing estates.
It will, ironically, put further pressure on prices by limiting the supply of new homes. 
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia has advised mortgage brokers that finance approvals for individual buyers of land lots would be delayed until all preliminary work on the project had been completed. 
That sounds okay, but currently many smaller developers actually have to pre-sell many of their lots before a bank will lend the money needed to start the earthworks and install water, sewerage and electricity services.
The Housing Industry Association understandably worries that the CBA decision restricting pre-sales - with undoubtedly other banks to follow - will have an adverse impact on the new housing sector across the outer suburbs of all Australia’s capital cities. 
"There is no justification for cutting off the credit tap for new residential development," Harley Dale, the HIA's chief economist argues.
"It would be very concerning at this point in time if it became more difficult for people to get into a new home, which is the end issue here."
Under the old policy the bank would commit to a loan with an assessment based on the development plan, as early as 12 months before a lot was accessible. 
Under the new policy it will need a valuation after an external valuer is physically able to identify the lot.
Banks turning down the financing tap is a yet another consequence of the recent APRA crackdown intended to stop any property bubble.
No one wants a bubble, but aren't we told the answer lies in doing everything possible to increase the supply of Sydney housing?
While safeguarding Australia’s financial system is obviously of paramount importance, the recent lending policy outcomes derived from APRA's intervention now risk obstructing not only new home building but damaging the economy’s rebound capacity. 
New detached home sales rose last financial year to 73,000, which was a four-year high for Australia. 
But just two states, NSW and SA are actually currently showing continued new home construction strength, warns the Housing Industry Association.
Compared with just 12 months ago, the number of owner occupier loans for the construction or purchase of new dwellings increased in New South Wales (+12.9 per cent), South Australia (+9.0 per cent) and the ACT (+0.5 per cent). Those in decline were Western Australia (-21.4 per cent), Tasmania (-20.8 per cent), the Northern Territory (-20.8 per cent), Queensland (-7.8 per cent) and Victoria (-4.8 per cent).
The HIA blame much of the decline on the lending outcomes that followed the initial December 2014 APRA crackdown.
Ofcourse these lending restrictions are against the backdrop of the unresolved, longstanding issue of local governments having increasingly onerous requirements and costings for infrastructure provisions in greenfields sites.
Economist Saul Eslake rightly says, there are two sides to this story, and he and I have a lot of sympathy with the desire of exisiting residents to prevent developments which detract materially from their quality of life.
But whatever perspective one might take on that debate, there is no doubt that planning laws and upfront costs have contributed to the mis­-match between our housing demand and housing supply.
Eslake argues it is time for revisit current models for financing the provision of infrastructure and services in greenfields housing estates by reducing upfront charges, replacing them instead with changes he suggests to the land tax regime.
But that idea is way too forward thinking in this knee-jerk world of now. 
This article was first published in The Saturday Daily Telegraph
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