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

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

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

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

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

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

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

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

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

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

House Price

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Melbourne houses had the strongest September price growth, according to the Residex non-revised median values chart.
These figures suggest the Australian house market grew 1.63% in September, off the back of a slight decline in August. 
Sydney units had the highest mainland growth in the month of September. 
Table 1: September 2016 Median Value Index
<a href="/images/2016/11/02/Screen%20Shot%202016-11-02%20at%2010.47.33%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/02/Screen%20Shot%202016-11-02%20at%2010.47.33%20AM.png" alt="">
 
<a href="/images/2016/11/02/Screen%20Shot%202016-11-02%20at%2010.48.55%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/02/Screen%20Shot%202016-11-02%20at%2010.48.55%20AM.png" alt="">
Source: Residex
Residex suggests the monthly figures are relatively volatile, with annual growth showing a more distinct trend.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Melbourne house price growth strongest in country: Residex

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GUEST OBSERVER
The RBA left its cash rate unchanged at 1.50 percent, as expected.
The post- meeting statement noted that 'having eased monetary policy at its May and August meetings, the Board judged that holding the stance of policy unchanged would be consistent with sustainable growth in the economy and achieving the inflation target over time'. Much of the rest of the statement was very similar to last month.
The RBA seems content with the current stance of policy and we see this as unlikely to change any time soon. Tomorrow's Q2 GDP print will now be in focus, with timely partial indicators, released earlier today, suggesting some upside risk to our forecast for GDP growth of 3.2 percent y-o-y. Our central case has the RBA keeping its cash rate steady at 1.50 percent in coming quarters.
Facts
The RBA held its cash rate steady at 1.50 percent, as expected by all of the surveyed economists in the Bloomberg survey. Just prior to the decision the market was pricing a 2 percent chance of a 25bp cut.
Implications
Having delivered 50bp of cuts in the past four months, it was no surprise that the RBA held its cash rate steady today. With little more to say about the situation than that, the RBA's post-meeting statement was very similar to last month's.
As they pointed out, 'low interest rates have been supporting domestic demand and the lower exchange rate since 2013 is helping the traded sector'. In short, loose financial conditions are rebalancing growth in the economy. At the same time, 'inflation remains quite low', but the Board are of the view that the current stance of policy is 'consistent with ... achieving the inflation target over time'.
On the AUD, the RBA exercised its 'free lunch option' by stating that 'an appreciating exchange rate could complicate [the rebalancing of growth]'. There is no cost to the RBA in stating this. However, importantly, the RBA is not suggesting that the current level of the exchange rate is a worry.
On the established housing market, they continue to believe (as do we) that the housing price boom is over. While some measures show continued strong housing price growth, most are showing a slowdown and this easing in housing price growth is consistent with weaker new housing loan approvals and housing credit growth.
The focus now shifts to tomorrow's Q2 GDP print. Partial indicators, on balance, suggest some upside risk to our forecast for already above-trend growth of 3.2 percent y-o-y. Our central case sees strong growth driving further gradual improvement in the labour market, with wages growth stabilising and gradually climbing through 2017, supporting underlying inflation. With this in mind, our central case sees the RBA on hold in coming quarters. 
 <a href="https://www.about.hsbc.com.au/hsbc-in-australia/management-team" target="_blank">PAUL BLOXHAM</a> IS CHIEF ECONOMIST (AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND) FOR HSBC. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The housing price boom is over: HSBC's Paul Bloxham

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 After CoreLogic recently reported a median house price of $835,000 in Sydney, Property Observer went searching for what that got.
Starting at the lower range of the median price, $825,000 will comfortable purchase a six-bedroom, four-bathroom house on Lot 9, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-jordan+springs-123144814" target="_blank">Lakeside Parade in Jordan Springs</a> (above) in Sydney’s greater west, due to be completed in December. The offer is stamp-duty free. 
Keeping in Sydney’s western suburbs, $835,000 will also purchase a four-bedroom, two-bathroom, single-storey house on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-caddens-123373594" target="_blank">77 Barnea Avenue, Caddens</a> (below). The brand new house is located on a 410 square metre block of land. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%206.02.41%20PM.png" alt=""> 
The median price will also purchase a four-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-emu+plains-123305666" target="_blank">69 Brougham Street, Emu Plains</a> (below). The luxury house was built by ZAC Homes. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%206.03.48%20PM.png" alt=""> 
Still within the median price range, a three-bedroom, one-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-toongabbie-123361826" target="_blank">36 The Crescent in Toongabbie</a> (below). The newly renovated home has a low-maintenance yard which features a veggie patch. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%206.05.06%20PM.png" alt="">
The five-bedroom, three-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-st+clair-122954230" target="_blank">5 Tulloch Place, St Claire</a> (below) was recently sold for between $839,950 and $879,950. The newly renovated house sits on 672 square metres of land.
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%206.06.58%20PM.png" alt="">
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What the $835,000 median house price gets in Sydney

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After CoreLogic recently reported a median house price of $575,000 in Darwin, Property Observer went searching for what that got. 
The median price will secure a four-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-gunn-121783274">17 Terry Drive</a> (above) in Gunn. The tropical-inspired home features garage parking for two cars.  
In Zuccoli the median price will purchase buyers a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-zuccoli-123344682" target="_blank">3 Grumman Court</a> (below). Currently under construction, the 180 square metre family home sits on 623 square metres of land. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.44.19%20PM.png" alt="">
In Durack $585,000 will purchase the three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project-zuccoli-nt-zuccoli-600000995?propertyTypes=houses" target="_blank">12 Murdoch Gardens</a> (below). The 731 square metre block has a double carport, a shed and solar hot water. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.46.56%20PM.png" alt="">
In Leanyer, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-leanyer-123270982" target="_blank">2 Ridgehaven Circuit</a> has been listed for offers above $570,000 (below). The house was built in 1981 and features an in-ground swimming pool. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.51.02%20PM.png" alt="">
By comparison, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-johnston-123214274" target="_blank">17 Melbourne Street</a> in Johnston has been listed for offers above $575,000 (below). The family home features in-built wardrobes, granite benchtops in the kitchen and a walk through wardrobe and ensuite in the master bedroom. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.52.17%20PM.png" alt="">
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What the $575,000 median house price gets in Darwin

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After CoreLogic recently reported a median house price of $500,000 in Perth, Property Observer went searching for what that got.
In Redcliffe the median price will secure a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-redcliffe-123149214" target="_blank">Victoria Street</a> (above). The five-year-old house features a double-storey garage and built in wardrobes in all bedrooms. 
In <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-two+rocks-123133718" target="_blank">Two Rocks</a> the median price will secure a four-bedroom, two-bathroom house on Madeline Court (below). The house sits on a 814 square metre block and features an in-ground swimming pool. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.30.23%20PM.png" alt=""> 
In <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-madeley-121913942" target="_blank">Madeley</a> home-buyers can secure a four-bedroom, two-bathroom home on Bryanston Pass built in 2010 (below). The house sits on a 375 square metre block. 
 <img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.31.41%20PM.png" alt="">
In <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-baldivis-123376682" target="_blank">Baldivis</a> the median price will purchase a five-bedroom, two-bathroom home on Lagoon Pass (below). The new house sits on 564 square metres of land. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.33.32%20PM.png" alt="">
In <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-waikiki-120886205" target="_blank">Waikiki</a> a six-bedroom, two-bathroom house on Auld Court will set buyers back $500,000 (below). The large property has parking for five cars and 680 square metres of land. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/31/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-31%20at%205.35.50%20PM.png" alt="">
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What the $500,000 median house price gets in Perth

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Enter housing price growth into the topic although make sure if you want to be right that you always select the plural.
For example, those in the real estate industry always focus on suburban or post code housing price growth. What we are reading now are housing price growth predictions of significant drops for Sydney and Melbourne which just so happen to be Australia’s largest and most active markets.
Allow me to put this into perspective given most have failed miserably in educating readers as to what exactly this means. Let’s say for the sake of this argument you own a house in Mosman – in six months’ time the value of your home will in all probability have gone up due to record low stock levels. However, if you had recently acquired an investment off – the – plan apartment, in six months’ time that would have definitely dropped well below the purchase price.
Recently we learnt that the Australian banks are no longer lending to foreign buyers and many areas across Sydney have now been black listed from obtaining any loans due to a significant oversupply of property. We need to bear in mind that whenever we see major price adjustments to real estate this can only happen when you have an acute oversupply.
The final nail in the housing investment market was delivered this week in the NSW budget when stamp duty payable by foreign buyers would be hit with a new four (4) per cent surcharge. On top of that they will also be hit with an additional 0.75 per cent land tax surcharge on residential real estate. If ever these tens of thousands of foreign buyers needed a reason to walk away from their deposits they certainly have one now.
To add further confusion to this potential housing catastrophe nobody can answer does this surcharge apply to those investors who have already paid their deposit and are yet to pay stamp duty? If history is anything to go by then you would say confidently that it does. The major lenders would be hoping that it does as they would be hoping that many of their new lending clients walk away from their deposits as that significantly reduces their exposure. Although this can be a double whammy if they are also funding the developer – so this is the double – edged property sword.
We should also clean up some incorrect speculation from commentators that this new surcharge will have a significant effect on home prices too. Well it won’t because these foreign buyers can only buy off – the – plan so it won’t play any part in the established housing markets.
One would have to say that the new surcharges will be a total failure although it is disappointing that the NSW government did absolutely no due diligence with what the long term effect would be on the housing markets other than to drive the investment real estate markets values down. The tax that should have been brought down was a tax against those investors who land bank because they would make plenty from that given a large percentage of foreign buyers leave these properties vacant.
The NSW government would be very concerned that stamp duty received from the established property markets is in significant decline although there is no mention of that as all the revenue has arrived thanks to a robust investment market, hence the new surcharge. Should the new surcharge tax turn out to be a dismal failure which I believe it will then the NSW government will be forced into hopefully a complete review of property taxes.
Everyone in the real estate industry knows full well that the reason for record low stock levels is entirely due to home owners baulking at paying exhorbitant stamp duty, so instead they are renovating. One day the NSW government will explore a broad based land tax paid annually by home owners as a logical replacement to stamp duty with Australian residents receiving a discounted rate.
One would think by now that policies on the run are usually always met with disaster where the last example was the failed and now abolished mining tax.
MOSMAN – 2088
Number of houses on the market this time last year – 55
Number of houses on the market last week – 51
Number of houses on the market this week – 48
Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 66
Number of apartments on the market last week – 41
Number of apartments on the market this week – 41
CREMORNE – 2090 
Number of houses on the market this time last year – 13
Number of houses on the market last week – 10
Number of houses on the market this week – 13
Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 11
Number of apartments on the market last week – 18
Number of apartments on the market this week – 18
NEUTRAL BAY – 2089 
Number of houses on the market this time last year – 3
Number of houses on the market last week – 8
Number of houses on the market this week – 7
Number of apartments on the market this time last year – 29
Number of apartments on the market last week – 19
Number of apartments on the market this week – 19
ROBERT SIMEON is a director of <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985.  He has also been writing real estate blog <a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000.
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Home truths needed on housing debate: Robert Simeon

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House price growth for the Gold Coast was strongest in Coombabah, Burleigh Heads and Mermaid Waters for the year to November, according to JLL.
JLL's Queensland Residential Market Report for February said other highly priced suburbs have shown less growth, with Palm Beach up 3.7 percent, Tugun up 0.7 percent, while Surfers, Bundall, Broadbeach and Tallai had minimal growth of 2.1 percent to 2.8 percent.
"Outside of the metropolitan area, median house price growth in the year to November (CoreLogic) was most evident in the Gold Coast, averaging $626,000, up 6.9 percent, and the Sunshine Coast, averaging $558,000, up 5.1 percent. Toowoomba median house prices were $420,000, up 4.2 percent," it said.
"Conditions in Cairns are improving and the median house price of $424,000 was up 4.9 percent in the year to November.
"Most areas have registered single digit growth in the past year but Mackay is down 11.5 percent to $361,000, Gladstone is down 5.7 percent to $396,000, and Rockhampton is down 2.0 percent to $319,000."
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Gold Coast house price growth strongest in Coombabah, Burleigh Heads: JLL 

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The Sydney property boom of the past three years is over, with the harbour city now reporting a sharp decline in house prices over the last quarter. All other Australian capital cities have reported moderate to strong house price growth, except Perth and Darwin which both experienced weakening market activity  The key findings of the Domain.com.au December Rental Report are: 
<ul>
<li>Record drop in Sydney median house prices over the December quarter </li>
<li>Melbourne and Canberra record highest annual house price growth since 2009  </li>
<li>Adelaide, Hobart and Brisbane record stronger house price growth  </li>
<li>House price falls in Perth steadying, while Darwin housing market remains weak </li>
</ul>
Commenting on the report, Domain Senior Economist Dr Andrew Wilson, said:  “The higher mortgage interest rates initiated mid-year by financial regulators for both investors and owner-occupiers have demolished the previous booming markets of Sydney and Melbourne, whilst house prices continued to fall in Perth and Darwin as a consequence of the slowdown in the mining sector. “Other capital city markets, however, are now recording solid results, reflecting improving local economies and restored market confidence.” Sydney  Sydney median house prices fell by a dramatic 3.1 per cent over the December quarter – the first fall since June 2012 and the sharpest quarterly decline in house prices reported by the city on record. Despite the record fall over the December quarter, Sydney house prices increased by 14.8 per cent over 2015. Sydney’s median unit prices also fell steeply over the December quarter, dropping by 2.8 per cent to $655,845. It’s the first quarterly fall since March 2013 and again, the sharpest decline on record. However across the year, Sydney unit prices increased by 8.7 per cent. “The remarkable Sydney boom we’ve seen over the last three years is now clearly over, with the market unlikely to record any notable house prices growth until at least spring. While the median house price still remains above $1 million (at $1,013,258), if current trends continue it will likely fall below this benchmark by mid-year,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.  Melbourne  The Melbourne median house price increased by 1.8 per cent over the December quarter, recording an annual growth of 14.5 per cent over 2015 – the highest annual result recorded by the city since the 2009 boom and reaching only 0.3 per cent behind Sydney. Melbourne unit prices increased by 1.3 per cent over the December quarter to $446,046 for an annual increase of 2.4 per cent. While a positive result overall, the annual percentage growth was considerably below the previous year’s result of 5.2 per cent.  “It’s good news for Melbourne home owners, with the city recording its highest annual growth since 2009. While quarterly growth rates have weakened sharply, the end-of-year results remained positive as local supply and demand drivers remain robust. Melbourne recorded a median house price of $719,486 over the quarter to remain the second highest priced capital city housing market, behind Sydney,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson. Brisbane  Brisbane house prices bounced back over the December quarter with the median house price increasing by 1.5 per cent to reach $511,361– up on the 0.7 per cent recorded over the previous quarter and the highest result for the year.  Brisbane unit prices fell again over the December quarter down by 1.1 per cent to $359,965.  Local unit prices were down by 5.3 per cent over 2015 – the sharpest decline in annual prices since 2000 – 15 years ago.  “It’s a positive result for Brisbane house owners, with the median house price recording its highest quarterly growth for the year.  “Unfortunately for unit owners, the record levels of new apartments continue to impact the Brisbane unit market, with supply clearly pushing ahead of demand. This has contributed to a fall in unit prices across the city,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson. Adelaide The Adelaide housing market reported another solid result over the December quarter with the median house price increasing by 1.8 per cent to $494,284. The Adelaide median house price increased by 6.7 per cent over 2015, its best annual result since 2007.  Adelaide unit prices increased strongly by 3.0 per cent over the December quarter to $310,090. Unit prices rose by 5.2 per cent over the year - the highest annual growth rate since 2008. “It’s a positive story for Adelaide home owners with the city recording  five consecutive quarters of house price growth for the first time since the boom period of 2010. With growth continuing at it’s current pace it is highly likely that the median house price will break through $500,000 by mid-year,”  said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson. Perth Perth house prices have been declining for four consecutive quarters but there may be some relief in sight, with the decline recorded this quarter at a marginal  0.8 per cent, for a median price of $585,369. The Perth median house price is now the lowest recorded by the city since the March quarter 2013, with prices falling by 4.5 per cent over 2015 – the sharpest annual decline since 2008. Perth unit prices rebounded over the December quarter rising by 1.5 per cent to a median of $388,834. Similar to house prices, Perth unit prices fell by 5.0 per cent over 2015 – the sharpest annual decline since 2011. “Although Perth’s median house price continues to fall as a result of the declining mining sector, it’s not all bad news. There are early signs suggesting that the rate of decline is moderating, as affordability improves and confidence recovers,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson. Hobart Hobart house prices increased strongly over the December quarter — up by 7.9 per cent to a median of $359,837 – the highest quarterly growth rate for over a decade. The December surge in house prices has resulted in an increase of 8.7 per cent over 2015 — the highest annual result for the local market since 2009.  Although Hobart unit prices fell by 3.3 per cent over the December quarter, they increased by 7.1 per cent over 2015 to a median of $268,401.  “The Hobart housing market delivered a strong result in the December quarter, especially given Hobart house prices have increased by just 5.8 per cent over the past 5 years. This indicates further potential for growth as the local economy improves and positive consumer sentiment builds,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.  Canberra Canberra’s median house price increased by 4.3 per cent over the December quarter to $652,307 – its highest quarterly growth rate since December 2009. It’s a great result for the capital’s housing market, which has seen a median house price increase of  9.0 per cent overall in 2015. The Canberra unit market also experienced positive growth recording a modest increase of 0.8 per cent over the December quarter to reach a median unit price of $405,110. Despite December’s small rise, Canberra median unit prices fell by 2.2 per cent over 2015.  “A really good story in Canberra this quarter, with the local market continuing to rise after a subdued period of buyer activity. Canberra’s house price growth of 9.0 per cent over the year is behind only that of the Sydney and Melbourne markets and is the best local annual result since 2009. “The fall of unit prices across 2015 demonstrates the high levels of new apartment construction predictably moving supply ahead of demand in the Canberra market,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson.  Darwin Darwin house prices fell again over the December quarter, dropping by 2.0 per cent to reach $636,854.  Despite recent sharp falls, the Darwin median house price has fallen by just 1.0 per cent over the past year, an improvement on the previous year’s decline of 5.4 per cent. Darwin unit prices fell slightly over the December quarter — down by 0.4 per cent to reach a median of $407,132. Unit prices decreased by 2.0 per cent over 2015 which was an improvement on the previous year’s fall of 6.5 per cent.  “While the local economy remains strong, the Darwin housing market continues to be impacted by the decline in the resource economy and the end to the significant demand driver of the fly-in-fly-out mining workforce. Darwin unit prices are now the lowest since June 2012, reflecting the oversupply from record levels of apartment construction,” said Domain Senior Economist, Dr Andrew Wilson. 
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Melbourne almost overtakes as Sydney's three-year property boom is over: Domain's House Price Report

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Brisbane's LGA median house price over the September quarter rose to $615,000, according to the REIQ Queensland Market Monitor report.
The median house price set in the June quarter was $610,000.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the Brisbane market, and  the southeast corner of Queensland was leading the state’s recovery. 
“It’s been difficult for areas of the state that were heavily reliant on mining to find their feet, but we’re starting to see indicators that suggest we are heading towards firmer ground,” she said. 
“Confidence in the residential house market is growing with sales activity up over the quarter across almost all southeast Queensland regions."
House listings in SE Queensland were up, with house sales in Ipswich posting a 12% increase. The annual trend is up 3.6%
Toowoomba and Cairns recorded the shortest average days on market over the year to August. Toowoomba house sales increased 13% over the quarter and held the state's lowest average vendor discounting rate of 5.3%. 
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$615,000 median house price for Brisbane LGA: REIQ

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Two new entries have been posted on the top ten discounted properties nationwide list from SQM Research - one in Queensland and the other in Tasmania.
The Queensland property, 35 Chataway Street, Carina Heights (above), now takes up ninth position following a total price reduction percentage of 32% in just 138 days.
The Tasmanian home, 78 Lewisham Scenic Drive, Lewisham (below), has been on the market since August last year and has since then been reduced by a total of $151,000, bringing the current asking price to a low $350,000, according to SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher.
<img src="/images/2015/10/21/image2-1.jpg" alt="" width="517" height="388">
He said the Queensland property consists of a highly sustainable four bedroom home set on a large 1,459 sqm block with a knockout certified organic garden to be used as you see fit.
"The property is located just under 10km's outside of Brisbane CBD via the Pacific Motorway and is within close distance of local shops and public transport. The properties overall eco county feel is truly unique for those wanting a little extra space whilst being within commuting distance of Brisbane CBD," he said.
"The Tasmanian beauty has been on the market since August last year and has since then been reduced by a total of $151,000, bringing the current asking price to a low $350,000. This charming four bedroom home sits on approximately 2510 sqm's of land facing north overlooking picturesque Frederick Henry Bay.
"Median asking prices in the capital of Tasmanian are down 1.7% over the last 12 months. If asking prices continue to fall, the vendor might be forced to reduce the price lower, or be open to negotiations."
 
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