<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Joel Robinson

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

By the time S&amp;S Projects began planning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia</a>, the developer already had three Rainbow Bay projects from which to draw.

Flow, Awaken and Esprit had given <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a> experience developing in the southern Gold Coast enclave, as well as buyer feedback that could be carried into its fourth project, a boutique collection of 38 residences at 271 Boundary Street.

“We have experienced a lot of success in this location and as this was our fourth building we had taken all of the learnings and buyer feedback from previous projects to arrive at a design and apartment mix that we believe had captured all of that experience and remained a true S&amp;S Project in its design and amenity,” the developer said.

That experience has translated into a collection of two, three, four and five-bedroom residences and five-bedroom penthouses positioned on an elevated corner in Rainbow Bay, where the site opens to multiple coastal view corridors and the area's distinctive north-facing bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284542]

S&amp;S Projects says the Boundary Street site took years to assemble, having previously comprised six units, a house and a duplex. The developer worked individually with the existing owners to bring the properties together after an earlier attempt to sell the site had been complicated by the number of parties involved.

“We are constantly looking for properties that meet our brand standards of location, views, and sites that are rare with unique aspects that we can develop to maximise the lifestyle of residents who live in our buildings,” S&amp;S Projects said.

The Boundary Street site gave <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a> a different set of conditions to work with.&nbsp;

“Our design brief was to design a building that took advantage of its unique elevated corner siting offering a range of spectacular view corridor opportunities,” Cottee Parker said.

“The design had to reinforce the strong brand pillars of S&amp;S which are quality, luxury and superior resident amenity.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284543]

Cottee Parker responded with a sculptural floorplate and strong horizontal banding, with continuous balconies and landscaped planters wrapping the building. Operable screens along the balcony edges allow residents to manage light and shade while creating an additional layer of pattern across the facade.

The tower rises above a heavily landscaped podium incorporating the entry lobby and recreational level, while the broader architectural expression takes cues from Rainbow Bay's coastal environment through its organic forms and light material palette.

Cottee Parker says the design has also been developed to complement S&amp;S Projects’ three previous Rainbow Bay developments while retaining its own architectural identity.

Inside, the residences continue that coastal response through two interior schemes centred on warm timbers and neutral tones, alongside patterned natural stone and fluted detailing.

Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors connect open-plan living areas to wraparound balconies, while natural stone is used across benchtops, splashbacks and bathroom walls. Specifications also include light-washed timber flooring, gas fireplaces, integrated bar and wine fridges, freestanding stone baths and 100 per cent wool carpet.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284559]

Cottee Parker Director Sandra Brown said the intention was to create an architectural response closely connected to its surroundings.

“Imagine architecture that breathes with the rhythm of nature, where every curve and line flows seamlessly – creating spaces that dance with the elements, where sunlight kisses every surface and the gentle sea breeze fills every space,” Brown said.

The lessons S&amp;S Projects carried into Radia also extend to its resident amenity, with a substantial collection of shared facilities planned for just 38 residences.

A dedicated Residents Club will include a lap pool and spa, gymnasium, ice bath, sauna, steam room and hot rocks sauna. A residents' lounge, private dining room, outdoor dining and barbecue area and business centre are also planned, along with storage and dedicated surfboard and beach lockers.

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the facilities were also designed around the project's Rainbow Bay setting.

“Each amenity is designed to capitalise on the lifestyle of Rainbow Bay, ensuring residents can enjoy the relaxed coastal experience the enclave is famous for,” Gedoun said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140491 project_image_fid=284555]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> says purchasers to date have predominantly included local downsizers, interstate lifestyle investors and families, alongside a strong contingent of repeat S&amp;S purchasers.&nbsp;

According to the project sales team, feedback has centred on the natural stone and joinery, generous floorplans, natural light and the ability for residences to capture views in multiple directions. The completed Flow, Awaken and Esprit developments have also provided prospective purchasers with an existing reference point for S&amp;S Projects' delivery in Rainbow Bay.

There has also been interest from high-profile surfers and people connected to the surf community, with the elevated building providing outlooks towards several of the area's recognised surf breaks.

Radia continues S&amp;S Projects' concentration of development in a tightly held part of the southern Gold Coast, close to Rainbow Bay Beach, Snapper Rocks, Duranbah Beach, Greenmount Beach and the Tweed River. The neighbourhood also includes a growing collection of hospitality venues, while Coolangatta Airport provides connections beyond the southern Gold Coast.

Hutchinson Builders is now delivering Radia, continuing the project from early works privately funded by S&amp;S Projects. The $250 million development is expected to reach completion in the third quarter of 2027.

“With our history in Rainbow Bay, we have been fortunate to be heavily involved in how the development landscape has unfolded and this project slides into the property landscape comfortably and will feel like it was always there,” the developer said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140491]

How three Rainbow Bay projects shaped S&S Projects' fourth, Radia

Nearly 40 years after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sheida-group">The Sheida Group</a> began working on the northern Gold Coast, the family-owned developer is continuing its involvement in Hope Island with Marina Point Apartments, where apartment scale has been a central part of the development.

Across the 235-apartment waterfront community, the developer has prioritised larger floorplans, substantial open space and marina access, responding to a purchaser base that has predominantly comprised local owner-occupiers and downsizers moving from larger homes.

"Having already delivered Anchorage nearby, we also understood this particular market and how people live here," developer Rick Sheida said.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Marina Point&nbsp;Apartments</a> gave us the opportunity to build on those lessons and create the next evolution of our work in Hope Island."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293151]

The Sheida Group acquired the Marina Point land around 2018. Its appeal, Sheida says, went beyond having a waterfront address.

"What attracted us was not simply that the site was waterfront, but the way it meets the water," he said.

"It sits at the junction of broad waterways, creating long sightlines, changing views and a sense of movement throughout the day. Its shape also allowed us to orient the buildings outward, improve privacy between residences and make better use of natural light and breezes."

The buildings have subsequently been positioned around the perimeter of the site, allowing most apartments to take in water views while others look across the resort amenity or hinterland. Once all four buildings are complete, approximately one hectare of the site is expected to remain as open space.

The waterfront also provides the potential for up to 50 marina berths, with berths ranging from 15 to 24 metres and options designed to accommodate wider vessels including catamarans. Access from the marina to the Gold Coast Seaway is bridge-free.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293149]

The developer says purchasers to date have predominantly been owner-occupiers and downsizers from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marina-point-apartments-hope-island-66-view-line-terrace-hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a> and elsewhere on the Gold Coast, generally aged between 45 and 70. Many have sold larger family homes or properties requiring significant upkeep.

That purchaser profile informed a design brief centred on retaining the space and functionality of a larger home within an apartment format.

"Many of our buyers are coming from large, well-appointed homes in Sanctuary Cove and the surrounding area," the project team said.

"They are accustomed to generous spaces and thoughtful design, so it was important that the apartments delivered the same sense of comfort and functionality.

"Every room needed to feel well proportioned, every space needed a clear purpose and nothing could feel compromised."

Residences range from 139 sqm through to 319 sqm penthouses, with two car spaces provided to apartments and three to penthouses. Minimum 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, entertainer's kitchens with butler's pantries, substantial storage and balconies ranging from 18 sqm to 37 sqm further reflect the emphasis on space.

One purchaser from Sanctuary Cove has taken the concept further, combining two of Marina Point's largest apartments to create a 552 sqm residence with raked ceilings reaching up to 4.5 metres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293155]

With Building 1 now complete, the developer is also seeing its original design assumptions tested against purchaser feedback.

Three completed display residences allow prospective purchasers to compare apartment sizes, layouts, finishes and outlooks in person. The sales team says one of the most consistent responses has been to the scale of the apartments, with visitors describing them as feeling more like homes than conventional apartments.

The first stage of resident amenity is also operational, including a 25-metre heated lap pool, Technogym-equipped gym, infrared sauna, golf simulator and yoga room. Future facilities are set to include a resort-style pool and spa, waterfront barbecue area and a residents' lounge with a library, fireplace, pool table, kitchen and bar.

Rather than treating the four buildings independently, the design brief called for a complete waterfront neighbourhood, balancing private residences with landscaping, open space, marina access and shared amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136992 project_image_fid=293152]

For Sheida, Marina Point Apartments is ultimately an extension of the developer's longer-term involvement in Hope Island and its view of how the suburb is evolving.

"We were equally interested in the long-term future of Hope Island," he said.

"Its position between Brisbane and the central Gold Coast gives residents access to both, while improving transport connections are making the northern Gold Coast increasingly attractive as a permanent place to live."

Hope Island Marketplace is 1.3 kilometres from Marina Point, while Sanctuary Cove and Paradise Point are within six kilometres. Links Hope Island, The Pines and The Palms golf courses are also nearby, and the new Hope Island train station is under construction around five kilometres from the development.

Building 2 is under construction, with completion scheduled for 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136992]

Marina Point Apartments continues The Sheida Group's 40-year Hope Island story

Sydney-based fund manager and developer EG is seeking to turn part of the former Roche pharmaceutical campus in Cromer into a 130-home residential community, introducing a mix of low-rise apartments, townhouses and duplexes to the tightly held Northern Beaches market.

The SJB-designed masterplan has been prepared for the 3.2-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/100-south-creek-road-cromer-nsw-2099">100 South Creek Road</a>, part of the former Roche landholding that EG acquired for $55 million in 2017 through its Yield Plus Infrastructure Fund No. 2.

EG is proposing what SJB describes as a new "urban village" set within the site's significant existing tree canopy.

<img alt="Cromer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="482c9a58-49f1-4c53-a12e-aaa02336229f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-24%20at%2011.20.57%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=hZP8_XfPnfNq500dbcjlpVwYU1ebhF9_" />

Around three hectares of the site is considered developable, with the balance incorporating a riparian corridor that would be rehabilitated and revegetated as part of the proposal.

The indicative masterplan comprises approximately 72 apartments in low-rise residential buildings and another 58 townhouses and duplexes.

The apartment component would include around five one-bedroom, 37 two-bedroom and 30 three-bedroom residences, while the townhouse and duplex component would be spread across several different housing typologies. The overall scheme would deliver around 19,500 sqm of gross floor area at an FSR of 0.6:1.

Parking for the apartment component is currently estimated at around 112 resident spaces and 14 visitor spaces, while the townhouse and duplex component would have 116 resident and 12 visitor spaces.

A significant part of the masterplan revolves around retaining the established landscape character of the former Roche campus.

SJB's plans show heavily treed setbacks along both Campbell Avenue and South Creek Road, a centrally located collection of significant native and exotic trees retained as communal open space, and the regeneration of the northern bushland area.

The existing creek corridor along the site's western edge would also be rehabilitated and revegetated, creating additional separation between the new homes and the neighbouring Northern Beaches Business Park.

A heritage-listed cottage and its garden setting would be retained and restored, with SJB flagging its potential adaptive reuse as communal space.

The proposal also includes new communal recreation areas, pedestrian connections to Campbell Avenue and South Creek Road, and a contribution toward improvements to the adjoining Michele Reserve.

Vehicular access would be restricted to South Creek Road, with no vehicle entry proposed from Campbell Avenue. The main internal road would largely follow the site's existing driveway to minimise the impact on established trees.

SJB said residential redevelopment presented an opportunity to retain the majority of the site's heritage-listed mature trees while delivering a broader range of housing types than typically seen across the Northern Beaches.

"The site being 3.27 hectares in area represents one of the largest vacant sites in common ownership in the Cromer and Dee Why area capable of residential renewal," SJB noted in the masterplan.

The architect said the proposal would particularly target housing diversity through townhouses and other "missing middle" typologies suitable for singles, young families, downsizers and retirees.

<img alt="Cromer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e3f5d841-8491-427e-8ada-c70d3d03d6bc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-24%20at%2011.21.02%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xTV7r.q8lrTzC9vKzMS9zMbjm9wKwhgm" />

The site emerged following the subdivision of the former Roche campus into eastern and western parcels.

EG has already transformed the western portion into the Northern Beaches Business Park, which incorporates heritage-listed office space, modern warehouses and indoor recreation facilities.

The proposed residential community, referred to as Cromer East in SJB's plans, adjoins established housing to the north, east and south-east, while the business park sits beyond the creek corridor to the west.

It is also within 250 metres of Pittwater House School and Northern Beaches Secondary College, while bus stops within a three-to-five-minute walk provide connections to Dee Why, Brookvale and express services to the Sydney CBD. Cromer Park and the South Creek open space corridor are also nearby.

EG acquired the broader 7.5-hectare former Roche campus in 2017 for $55 million through its Yield Plus Infrastructure Fund No. 2. The campus at the time comprised more than 25,000 sqm of industrial and office buildings set within landscaped grounds.

The current residential site represents the eastern portion of that original holding.

EG's investment strategy for the fund has centred on acquiring income-producing real estate with longer-term rezoning and repositioning potential, particularly assets benefiting from infrastructure and changing land-use patterns.

EG also has an established residential track record across Sydney, including Bosco in Five Dock, Tempo in Drummoyne, The Flour Mill in Summer Hill and Pindari in Randwick.

The developer says it has delivered more than 1,000 homes to date, with a further 3,000-plus residences across its development pipeline.

First look: EG plans 130 apartments on former Roche pharmaceutical campus in Cromer

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

<html><body>
Three locations have climbed to the peak of the market cycle for units, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White (HTW).
The valuation firm's national property clock for August finds unit markets in Albury, Sunshine Coast, and Wodonga are now at the peak of the market, joining Bathurst which has sat at the peak for the last two months.
It's been a quick rise for Albury and the Sunshine Coast.
In back to back months they've climbed quickly through the cycle, from rising market in June to approaching the peak of the market in July.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/5/unit%20clock.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/5/unit%20clock.jpg" alt="">
Tamworth joined Hobart at the approaching peak of the unit market. 
Apartments in the South West of Western Australia were not as far through their declining cycle as HTW had previously suggested.
They moved from approaching the bottom of the market to in a declining market, suggesting there is still some way to go in the decline.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/16/Tamworth%201.JPG" alt="">
One example of a unit listed in Tamworth is 1/33 Murray Street (pictured above).
The two bedroom one bathroom unit is listed for $225,000 more than 10% higher than the median price for a unit in Tamworth, $194,811.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/16/Tamworth%202.JPG" alt="">
Another example of a unit exceeding the median sale price in Tamworth is Lot 41/337 Armidale Road (pictured above).
The three bedroom, two bathroom apartment sold for $273,000 in March 2019.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Tamworth unit market starts to approach the peak: HTW Clock 

<html><body>
The residential market in Perth has tracked closely in line with Herron Todd White (HTW) February predictions for the year (so far), according to a recent HTW residential report. 
"Our assumptions were that the rental market would continue to be a strong point for Western Australia and that sales volumes and house price growth would remain subdued until 2020.
"There has been a lot of speculation about when the Perth market will finally turn and it doesn’t seem like we are much closer to knowing, mostly due to our split property cycles and diminishing sales volumes.
"Thankfully, the wider Perth area has seen some stability in its median price," the valuation firm said. 
The report notes that the median house price settled at $500,000 for the March quarter, 0.6% higher than the previous quarter.
The unit median price also remained steady, holding at $380,000.
REIWA data shows that there were 6,636 properties sold in the March quarter, proving Perth’s state of subdued activity.
REIWA reports that “although overall sales are down, 10% of suburbs experienced stable or increased volumes”.
"This is a positive sign as there are improvements in some sub markets, and it shows the differences between Perth’s inner and outer suburbs," the valuation firm notes. 
Figure 1 shows the distribution of wider Perth area house sales by price bracket.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/20/perth%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/perth%201.jpg" alt="">
In the December 2018 quarter, 64% of homes sold below $600,000.
This figure jumped to 70% in the recent March quarter, indicating that affordability is continually improving, but it is also a symptom of a decline in prestige activity.
President of REIWA Damian Collins states that this affordability “presents excellent opportunities for first home buyers, trade-up buyers, downsizers and investors to secure a good deal”.
Listings have increased 6% since the December 2018 quarter to 16,957 which isn’t helping selling periods. It took an average of 78 days for vendors to sell their properties last quarter.
This is a significant jump from the 68 days to sell in the December 2018 quarter. It can be attributed to new land releases as well as a softening in demand across the board.
Collins recently said “it’s also worth noting that a significant portion (43%) of Perth sellers are achieving sales prices at or above their original asking price, which suggests that many vendors are heeding the advice of their real estate agent and pricing their properties in line with market expectations”.
"This is key to avoid the extended selling periods that we have been seeing far too often.
"Our valuers are seeing frequent evidence of properties becoming stale in the market place due to the initial asking price being out of kilter with the market and the eventual sale price of these properties is often below what market evidence suggests they should achieve,."
The rental sphere was once again increasingly active in the March 2019 quarter, favouring investors and shortening the Perth vacancy rate to 2.5%.
The median rental price remained stable at $350 per week for a ninth consecutive quarter.
REIWA data shows that 29% of suburbs in Perth had an increase in rents during the quarter, and 36% of suburbs increased over the past year.
"If the rental market continues in this direction we should inevitably see an increase in Perth’s median rent over the coming seasons," the valuation firm said. 
In terms of activity, 14,003 properties were leased during the March 2019 quarter, almost 9% more than the December 2018 quarter.
There were 6,738 properties listed for rent at the end of the March quarter 2019, which was 2% lower than the December quarter figure and 25% lower than the same time last year, showing that competition amongst tenants is ramping up.
It took two days less to find a tenant during the March quarter, decreasing to 42 days.
This figure has crept downwards since the peak of 57 days in June 2017 and shows that tenants need to be decisive and act fast to secure their preferred property.
The suburbs that recorded the best and worst median price growth over the March 2019 quarter are in Figure 2.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/20/perth%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/perth%202.jpg" alt="">
A North Lake resort style house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-north+lake-129943614" target="_blank"> 3 Cheshunt Garden</a> (pictured below) has been recently sold for $820,000.
It was last traded for $581,000 in 2005. 
Set on 662 square metres, the house<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-north+lake-129943614" target="_blank"> </a>comprises four bedrooms, three separate livings, swimming pool and large garden sheds. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/north%20lake.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/8/20/perth%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/perth%203.jpg" alt="">
Note that both Burswood and South Guildford are benefiting from the sale of properties in new developments.
The Peninsula development by Mirvac would be significantly affecting Burswood’s median as some of the properties are selling for over $1.7 million.
The report notes that a few lifestyle living areas have been active over the past six months including Mundaring, Glen Forrest, and Serpentine. Suburban North Lake has tracked well, jumping 8.5% quarter-on-quarter.
This was surprising to see as North Lake’s surroundings have been disrupted lately by the development of the Murdoch Drive Connection – adding extensions from the Kwinana Freeway and Roe Highway to the Murdoch Activity Centre and Health Precinct.
Peppermint Grove has surged over the past quarter taking its median house price from $3.45 million up to $4,025,000.
There has been a fair amount of activity in this region which is nice to see, as the prestige market (previously helping to stabilise the Perth median) faltered over the March 2019 quarter, showing signs of volatility.
Cottesloe, Swanbourne, Mosman Park, North Fremantle, Attadale, Bicton and Dalkeith all experienced decreases in their annual median house prices.
A three bedroom modern house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-cottesloe-131272570" target="_blank">281 Marmion Street, Cottesloe</a> has recently been sold for $2.2 million (pictured below).
It was last sold at $2.328 million in 2016. 
It comes with three bedrooms, appointed open kitchen, living area, salt water pool and landscaped gardens.
It's within easy walking distance to parkland and shopping centre. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/cottesloe.jpg" alt="">
This is understandable however, as the March quarter usually experiences an increase in listings.
On top of this, consumer confidence has been low; the fallout from the Banking Royal Commission has created a challenging financial market, and with the distraction of a federal election, homeowners and investors would be hesitant to make any big moves.
"There has been a lot of media coverage around the declining Australian property market (mainly surrounding Sydney and Melbourne) and this isn’t helping confidence in the Western Australian market even though our property market is in a different stage of the cycle to the eastern states," the report stated. 
All of this has forced sales volumes to drop, selling periods to extend and top-end prices have fallen as a result.
"In the upgrader market, our valuers are still seeing a fair amount of activity, however home buyers are generally seeking to purchase at a discounted rate.
"This is pushing out selling periods and it seems that prices may continue to soften as a result, further improving affordability," the valuation firm said. 
Perth’s fringe is still being suffocated by chronic oversupply.
Baldivis is continuing its decline due to consistent land releases putting downward pressure on established dwelling sale prices.
As an example, a property on Avoca Chase had a summated cost of $285,000 in April 2018, being one of the cheapest we had seen at the time.
It was sold in March 2019 on completion for $225,000, declining 21% throughout its construction period.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-baldivis-130883546" target="_blank">20 Jitarning Brace</a>, Baldvis has been recently sold for $300,000 (pictured below). 
In 2011, it was traded for $430,000.
The house comprises of four bedrooms, separate theatre, large family and kitchen area and double garage. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/baldivis%20.jpg" alt="">
"This sales figure is actually considered to be fairly cheap, however it’s part of the unfortunate truth in the current market," the report said.
"Properties in oversupplied regions need to be priced very keenly in order to achieve a quick selling period and avoid them going stale on the market, so listen to the advice of agents about what is realistic and appropriate.
"Developing suburbs in the south-east are in a similar situation. Whitby and Byford have softened over the past six months and it is expected that these areas will stay flat for the remainder of 2019.
"Our predictions for the rest of the year are fairly simple for Perth’s outer regions.
"We expect to see no rebound in 2019 and assume that medians in these areas will continue their slow descent to wherever the median price floor holds, but we expect the overall median house price to remain relatively steady for the wider Perth area as upgraders take advantage of the buying opportunities that are available in many sought after areas." 
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Wider Perth area sees stable median price: HTW residential 

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The ACT housing market has not changed much over the past six months, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that the value of houses and land has likely seen little growth, owing to an overall lower demand for property arising from various external factors such as the difficulty in obtaining finance.
"Demand is still reasonably strong for entry level houses in the $450,000 to $600,000 range and we would consider this property type to be performing the best," the valuation firm said. 
A recent sale in this price range was a three bedroom house (pictured below) situated within walking distance to the CBD. 
The house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-queanbeyan-131628918" target="_blank">5 Hambly Place, Queanbeyan</a> has been sold for $475,000.
It comprises three bedrooms updated kitchen, separate dining and single lock up garage. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/queanbeayn.jpg" alt="">
Demand has remained steady for the mid-point priced houses in the $600,000 to $1 million range.
The prestige market ($2 million plus) remains steady. Prestige dwellings are changing hands, but not at an extraordinary rate.
The supply of units remains high and demand remains steady.
Unit and apartment values have retracted or remained steady over the past six months due to the quantity being offered to the market, especially in the outer suburban areas where demand is generally lower.
"Supply is highest for the one-bedroom product that is being offered at a very high rate in new complexes, while the market for two, three and four-bedroom units is more steady and secure," the valuation firm said. 
The price point for most one-bedroom units is between $275,000 and $400,000 depending on location, size and quality of inclusions.
The report notes most two-bedroom units are selling for between $300,000 and $550,000, again depending on location size and quality of inclusions.
A two-bedroom apartment located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-act-forrest-131627154" target="_blank">95/5 Empire Circuit, Forrest</a> (pictured below) has recently been sold for $530,000. 
It consists of two bedrooms with built-in robes, open plan living, kitchen and balcony. 
The apartment is within walking distance to the Manuka precinct with shopping and restaurants, Parliament House and Telopea Park.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/forrest.jpg" alt="">
Units with more than three bedrooms are often sold for above $550,000, with some units selling over the $1 million mark in well located, reputable complexes.
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Canberra sees strong demand for entry level houses: HTW residential 

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The Hobart market is starting to show signs it is approaching or has reached its current cycle price peak, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
CoreLogic suggests that the median price actually slipped a touch in March.
"On the ground, we are seeing a flattening of prices in the inner ring, however demand for prestige remains historically firm," the valuation firm stated. 
A penthouse apartment located in the heart of Hobart CBD has recently been sold for over $1 million. 
The apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-tas-hobart-131418934" target="_blank">5A/117 Collins Street </a>(pictured below) comprises master bedroom, two additional bedrooms, kitchen and open plan living.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/hobart.jpg" alt="">
It's just minutes to Salamanca and the Wharf. 
"In the middle to outer ring however we continue to see positive pricing and competition for housing. This is true for the 50-kilometre commuter radius," the valuation firm added. 
A three-bedroom house at Primrose Sands (pictured below) has been recently sold for $252,000.
Situated about 150 metres from the beach, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-primrose+sands-131682878" target="_blank">8 Esplanade</a> comes with three bedrooms, open plan living, dining and kitchen, and single lockup garage. 
It has been offered for the first time since 2003.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/20/primrose%20sands.jpg" alt="">
The report notes that vacancy rates remain tight with little evidence of the housing shortage easing.
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Hobart market reaches price peak: HTW residential 

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In the south-east of South Australia, $500,000 will enable you to purchase a wide variety of property, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that few dwellings sell for more than $500,000 each year and demand for property tends to reduce significantly within this price range given the median house price is around $265,000.
"Houses that have sold for around $500,000 within the past year include the following Mount Gambier properties. This shows that you can buy a good quality dwelling for this price," the valuation firm says. 
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-mount+gambier-126845570" target="_blank">15 Redwood Avenue, Mount Gambier </a>SA 5290 (pictured above) - $518,000</li>
</ul>
A circa 2008 three-bedroom, two-bathroom, detached dwelling on 950 square metres located in a good modern residential division surrounded by quality homes.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/15/mount%20gambier%202.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-mount+gambier-127030338" target="_blank">17 Jardine Street, Mount Gambier </a>SA 5290 (pictured above) -  $500,000</li>
</ul>
A circa 1902 four-bedroom, two-bathroom, renovated character dwelling on 1,050 square metres, centrally located and surrounded by quality homes.
Below is a typical rural living property situated on the outskirts of Mount Gambier.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/15/mount%20gambier%203%20.jpg" alt=""> 
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-worrolong-128437902" target="_blank">47 Eldridge Drive, Worrolong </a>SA 5291 (pictured above) - $505,000</li>
</ul>
A circa 2011 four bedroom, two bathroom dwelling on 3,201 square metres located on the edge of Mount Gambier with good quality properties surrounding, situated on country living allotments.
"The best performing properties around the $500,000 range are generally large modern dwellings situated in modern residential divisions, properties located on the outskirts of town on rural living size allotments and renovated character dwellings that are centrally located, such as the sales above," the valuation firm commented.
These properties could achieve a rental return of between 4-4.5%, however most of these properties are owner-occupied.
"Within Mount Gambier we do not generally see any units or attached housing selling for $500,000 or above," HTW said. 
The median sale price for Mount Gambier for May 2019 is $265,000, therefore all of the above properties are considered to be at the top end of the market.
"The market has remained relatively stable over the past 12 months with similar market conditions to last year.
"For $500,000 you can purchase a similar property this year to what you could last year." 
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Few dwellings sell for over $500,000 in Mount Gambier: HTW residential 

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The sub $500,000 price point in the wider Sydney metropolitan has been an ever-diminishing market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report.
But there is now more opportunity, the valuation firm said. 
It took a look at the various options across the land for investing $500,000.
The report suggests that as values decreased, the number of properties meeting this criteria reduced each year.
In the past two years however, the wider market has contracted and we now have more options in play in this market.
When buying property at this price point, purchasers will still have to sacrifice in some aspect, be it location, commute time, accommodation or the overall condition and features they desire.
"It should come as no surprise that western Sydney provides buyers with the most options in the sub-$500,000 price range, however there are still some options available in most parts of Sydney," the report said.
"Whilst these may be restricted to units, a number of these areas are now seeing the entry point for houses at well below $1 million, something that may not have been conceivable a year or two ago.
"Parramatta provides two major options for buyers with $500,000 or less to spend. You can pick up a semi-modern, one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit or an older two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit." 
A recent example is a one-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-parramatta-130364454" target="_blank">802/138-140 Church Street, Parramatta</a> (pictured below) selling for $488,888 on level eight in the Escen development.
This is a late 2000s built development with common pool, sauna and gym and within close proximity of the CBD and rail.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/25/parramatta%201.jpg" alt="">
"Further west in Penrith, you have the option of a modern two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit or an early 2000s three-bedroom townhouse for sub-$500,000," the report noted.
Given the wider market cooling over the past 12 to 18 months, detached houses in Penrith are now becoming available for sub-$500,000.
These properties are generally in fair condition with irregular blocks or located on busy roads but provide an entry point for buyers wanting a detached dwelling on circa 600 square metres blocks.
With some smart renovations, these houses could prove to be a savvy buy in the long term.
A recent example of this is a neat brick dwelling selling for $480,000 in March.
Set on 556 square metre allotment, the family house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-penrith-130288870" target="_blank"> 53 Glebe Place, Penrith</a> (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, separate kitchen and living areas, and large bathroom.
Externally, the property is neat but is prime for updating internally.
It's only minutes to local schools, trains and public transport. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/24/penrith.jpg" alt="">
West Ryde is close to the geographical centre of Sydney and doesn’t usually feature in this topic, but with the downturn over the past 12 to 18 months, there are now more opportunities for investors and first home buyers with older one-bedroom units selling for early $400,000s within close proximity of the rail and shops.
Campbelltown provides the most options for the sub-$500,000 market.
"You have the option of three-bedroom detached houses on circa 700 square metre blocks, modern two and one-bedroom units, or a variety of villas and townhouses," the valuation firm suggested. 
A recent example is an older 1960s three-bedroom, one-bathroom dwelling on 691 square metres of land selling for $450,000.
The house had some minor updates throughout and would be perfect for a first home or investment.
"If you are after a modern unit, there have been some recent sales between $420,000 and $500,000 of modern built, two-bedroom, two-bathroom units," the valuation firm stated.
The sub-$500,000 price point is mostly made up of first home buyers and investors.
These participants are generally sensitive to price and interest rate movements.
A number of the major lenders recently reducing their interest rates is likely to have a positive impact on this sector of the market.
Within the new estates in western Sydney, buyers with a budget of up to $500,000 can mostly only find land.
Examples would include a rectangular shaped 350 to 500 square metre parcel in Box Hill in the north-west or Austral in the south-west.
The variance in price will depend on frontage and position within the developing suburbs.
"Given this, we have recently seen some three-bedroom, two- bathroom villas for sale at this price point in Austral and there are units proposed for Box Hill which will fall under $500,000.
"For even better value, buyers can head to North Richmond, where for $475,000 to $500,000 you can acquire a 650 to 700 square metre, rectangular shaped block."
The commute is circa 70 kilometres from the Sydney CBD, but more importantly circa 50 kilometres from both Parramatta CBD and the proposed second airport at Badgerys Creek.
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Western Sydney provides most options in the sub $500,000 price range: HTW residential

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Over the past six months, there has been a continuing slow decline in the south-eastern Melbourne property market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that values have continued to drop and it is likely the market is yet to bottom.
For the inner suburbs such as Bentleigh East and Hampton, there are still a vast amount of townhouse developments popping up despite the large fall in prices over the past year.
"These higher value suburbs are often hardest hit in declining markets," the valuation firm stated. 
On the peninsula, estate agents are getting creative with their sales tactics.
The report notes that this was evident in a sale via auction on 4 May 2019 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-dromana-130838386" target="_blank">16 Jetty Road, Dromana</a> (pictured below). 
The real estate agent employed an unusual tactic to ensure the best result.
He announced the owner’s reserve price prior to the auction, which resulted in the auction lasting only 60 seconds, with the winning bid being the $1.25 million reserve, according to source: realestate.com.au.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/dromana%20.jpg" alt="">
The purchaser was from the eastern suburbs, suggesting a sea-change or perhaps an intention to use the property as a holiday home.
Vacant land has not fared well over the past 12 months as there is an oversupply and purchasers are struggling to obtain finance.
Many developers are offering incentives such as offering to pay building deposits.
"In contrast, the unit market has remained resilient in the outer south-east and the peninsula," the valuation firm said. 
"This is largely due to units being at the lower end of the market and appealing to investors and first home buyers."
On the peninsula, there are a few properties which are managing to buck the trend.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mornington-130630550" target="_blank">8 Mills Beach Close, Mornington</a> sold for $200,000 more than its 2017 purchase price and sold within two weeks of being placed on the market for $1,575,000.
The purchaser resided in Shepparton and purchased the property for a sea-change.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/mornington%20.jpg" alt="">
A recent report named the suburbs that banks consider to be the riskiest in terms of lending (based on unsuccessful loan applications).
"The majority of high risk suburbs were located in the outer south-east being: Clyde North, Clyde, Cranbourne, Botanic Ridge, Tooradin, Blind Bight and Warneet.
"This can potentially lead to the banks selling up the properties or vendors being forced to accept a lower offer to avoid becoming bankrupt," the valuation firm said. 
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Oversupply of vacant land on Mornington Peninsula: HTW residential 

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Across the Clarence Valley, median prices remain strong, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that most localities are still recording median price increases across all property types, however some are beginning to show early signs of stabilising.
For instance, Grafton has shown a 6.2% rise in median house price from 2018 to 2019, while Maclean and Yamba remain steady.
"Recently, the rate of sales has slowed with some speculation surrounding the election," the report noted. 
Rural residential properties have remained popular with considerable interest being recorded, particularly those with multiple dwellings and the possibility for additional income.
Similarly, the prestige housing market has proved resilient with market leading sales being recorded in sought after positions in Yamba.
"As predicted, the significant majority of sales recorded recently remain in the $300,000 to $500,000 price point and it is likely the second half of 2019 will mirror the first two quarters," the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/20/grafton%201.jpg" alt="">
A Grafton three bedroom house located just metres to the Clarence River has recently been sold for $315,000. 
The fresh painted house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-grafton-128285790" target="_blank">18 Oliver Street</a> (pictured above) comprises three bedrooms, tiled rumpus, timber kitchen and level garden. 
Additional features include ceiling fans and reverse cycle air conditioning.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/20/maclean%20.jpg" alt="">
Another four bedroom house perched high on Maclean Hill with views of the Clarence River and hinterland has been sold for $442,500.
Set on a 1,308 square metre block, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-maclean-130342214" target="_blank">25 Clarence Street </a>(pictured above) comes with four bedrooms, media room or fifth bedroom, open plan living, and kitchen with views.
Other highlights include cupboard space throughout, double carport and large deck on both levels. 
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Clarence Valley median price remains strong: HTW residential 

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In terms of the best growth suburbs to invest in Melbourne, valuer John Costanzo believes there is still plenty of value to be had in Ringwood and Croydon, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"While the property market started 2019 on a positive note with more interest from buyers, auction clearance rates rising and banks chasing more business, another hurdle has been put in our way," the valuation firm said. 
"While the current slump in property values resembles those in 2008 during the global financial crisis, this time around, our economy is sound with interest rates at an all-time low." 
A four bedroom house positioned within a highly coveted cul-de-sac in Ringwood with views of Dandenong Ranges has recently been sold for $796,000.
Nestled on a 559 square metre allotment, the brick house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-ringwood-129317002" target="_blank"> 4 Gibson Court</a> (pictured below) comprises master with built-children's playroom, three additional bedrooms, living and dining room with views, and sleek stone kitchen.
It has easy access to schools, shops and public transport. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/ringwood%20.jpg" alt="">
Another pick is Wantirna, according to the HTW report. 
"While Wantirna South’s median entered the $1 million club in 2018, its sister suburb Wantirna is inevitably next in line," the valuation firm commented. 
With a median house price of $960,600, it offers excellent transport links, schools and proximity to Westfield Knox Shopping Centre, which will undergo a long- awaited major redevelopment from November 2019.
A current listing is a three bedroom single level house priced between $880,000 to $960,000.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-wantirna-131232658" target="_blank">2 Fortescue Court, Wantirna</a> (pictured below), the house comes with master bedroom, two additional robed bedrooms, living and dining spaced with porcelain tiles, smart kitchen and family area. 
Additional features include ducted heating, split-system heating/cooling, salt-chlorinated in-ground pool with deck surround and double garage.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/wantirna%20.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/27/east%20mel.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/27/east%20mel.jpg" alt=""> 
"Investors should start thinking about suburbs where infrastructure upgrades, particularly with links to transport, could put them at the top of the next boom.
"Buyers are still being cautious and with tighter lending conditions still in place, it’s likely the eastern Melbourne market will tread water in the latter half of 2019, although this will vary depending on local market conditions and demand. Only time will tell."
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Ringwood, Croydon and Wantirna - best suburbs to invest in Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Since the beginning of 2019, it was expected that the residential and rural residential market in Lismore, Casino and Kyogle would soften with reduced sales activity and weakening demand, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residental report. 
"From a general view point, this has occurred, albeit with some pockets of the market kicking this statement into touch," the valuation firm said. 
"Firstly, following on from the ravages of floodwaters inundating parts of North and South Lismore and parts of Lismore Central during April 2017, the volume of sales activity and demand came to a virtual halt, however over the past six months, we began to see some positive movement."
With the stringent banking regulations now in place, flood affected areas with an estimated habitable floor height level below the estimated one in 100 year flood event height level will experience a lot of difficulty securing mortgage finance.
Nevertheless, those dwellings with a floor height above the estimated one in 100 year flood event height level have fared better and it is not uncommon now to see prices above $300,000 for part renovated dwellings in South Lismore and North Lismore.
The report notes that modern residential estates in the suburb of Goonellabah have continued to improve over the past six months with well improved, four-bedroom, two- bathroom dwellings sometimes breaching the $600,000 mark.
An example was a single level Goonellabah house which has recently been sold for $600,000.
Nestled on an 804 square metre parcel of land, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-goonellabah-130593262" target="_blank">181 Invercauld Road </a>(pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, two bathrooms, open plan living and dining area, gourmet kitchen and outdoor entertainment. 
Located within Wyralla Road Public School catchment area, the house is only footsteps to school bus stop and close to local amenities. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/25/goonellabah.jpg" alt="">
Casino and Kyogle on the other hand have seen a general slowdown in activity with only well- presented properties that have special features garnering more interest.
Being close to the town centre and providing modern appointments help improve the overall appeal, according to the HTW report. 
"We note a recent construction of four good quality two-bedroom attached units within close proximity of the Kyogle CBD having no trouble securing tenants at the $350 per week price point," the valuation firm said. 
A two bedroom unit within walking distance to Kyogle CBD has been offered for lease with a price of $375 per week. 
The unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-kyogle-426720686" target="_blank">1/61 Ettrick Street</a> (pictured below) comprises two bedrooms, living area, modern kitchen, and alfresco area.
Other features include air-conditioning in the main bedroom and living area, solar hot water and garage with remote controlled door. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/25/kyogle.jpg" alt="">
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