Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

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The current residential market within the outer east of Melbourne is very strong and rising, according to Herron Todd White’s latest May report.
The property valuation firm says that Nunawading, Mitcham, Glen Waverley, Ringwood and Mount Waverley are among the strongest suburbs for the residential market.
“In particular the strong market is evident in suburbs such as Nunawading, Mitcham, Glen Waverley and Mount Waverley.
“Within the outer eastern suburbs the market is also strong in Ringwood, Ringwood East and Croydon.
"Within both areas family homes of 3- to 4-bedrooms are in high demand.
“The rising prices are caused by the lack of supply and high demand with buyers looking for more affordable family housing,” the report stated.
High demand in suburbs such as Mount Waverley and Glen Waverley are driving the prices up according to Herron Todd White.
“The high demand has also caused the market to continue to rise in price.
“At this point in time we do not forecast the market to decline as the demand is too strong.
“However, if a major change in the economic climate was to occur it is possible the market would decrease."
HTW gave an example of the rising prices within the outer eastern suburbs as the sale at 30 Caroline Street, Ringwood. (above)
It sold on the 4 March 2017 for $950,000.
The last sale of the property occurred in December 2013 for $572,500.
“This sale illustrates the high price increase that has occurred within the past four years,” the report advised.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Outer East Melbourne residential market strong and rising: HTW

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The Southern Tablelands residential market continues to remain at a consistent pace, according to Herron Todd White’s April report.
The property valuation firm says that the average price remaining at as a result of new land releases coming onto the market year to date.
“New land releases are trading for $220,000 to $250,000, with house and land packages ranging from $500,000 to $550,000.
"Likewise some of the villages between Sutton Forest and Goulburn, such as Marulan have seen an uptick in first home owner activity, with new land releases being quickly absorbed by the market in the $160,000 to $190,000 range for 1,000 square metre blocks,” the report stated.
Herron Todd White says that part of the attraction here aside from lower entry price is ease of access to freeway.
“As with the Southern Highlands market, the only real slowdown foreseen in the market would be as a result of a lender change in credit policy or increases in interest rates,” the report commented.
A 1450 sqm residential land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-marulan-201719394" target="_blank">41 Patrick Place</a>, Marulan (above) has been listed for $170,000.
Similarly a 1000 to 1450 sqm residential land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-residential+land-nsw-marulan-201758350" target="_blank">50 Patrick Place</a>, Marulan (below) was sold in March this year for $160,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/23/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-23%20at%201.02.19%20PM.png" alt="">
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Southern Tablelands residential land sees increase in first home buyer activity

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The local residential market in Bundaberg is stable, which is a term frequently used to describe the area, according to Herron Todd White’s latest May report.
The property valuation firm says that sales volumes have slowed slightly with median values dropping slightly by around 5 percent.
“The median vacant land price is $150,000 for the postcode.
“The median house and unit prices are $295,000 and $225,000 respectively for the last quarter.
“Affordability is the big draw card to the area along with the proximity to the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and the relaxed lifestyle.
“The key to getting the market to move upwards is attracting more people to the area with flights to other major centres apart from just Brisbane.
“This would then attract more investment and that would require more infrastructure spending.
“Another way would be for the government to include existing property in the First Home Owner’s Grant which would also stimulate the economy,” the report stated.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-norville-125255794" target="_blank">57 Mimnagh Street</a>, Norville (above) has been listed for $229,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bundaberg+west-124161154" target="_blank">8 Adams Street</a>, Bundaberg West (below) has been listed for $235,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/8%20Adams%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-burnett+heads-120435465" target="_blank">4 Scott Street</a>, Burnett Heads (below) was recently sold for $235,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/4%20Scott%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-bundaberg+south-125182738" target="_blank">17 Hargreaves Street</a>, Bundaberg South (below) was recently sold for $223,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/17%20Hargreaves%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Bundaberg residential market stable: HTW

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Coastal areas continue to be the most in demand locations in Ballina and Byron Bay, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
However, the property valuation firm says locations which have traditionally been less sought after remain strong, with prospective buyers operating in a heated market prepared to overlook negative attributes.
“With significant increases in values over the past 24 months any increase in stock or reduction in demand will likely see a reduction in value,” the report stated.
“The increases in value would not appear to be sustainable.”
Mullumbimby appears to be the most desired location at present, while demand for lower priced units in the Ballina area is strong, whilst the $1 million plus market in coastal areas such as Lennox Head and East Ballina continues to perform well.
The report advised the demand in Mullumbimby was being fuelled by interstate buyers looking to find alternatives to the more expensive resort towns of Brunswick Heads and Byron Bay.
“The average house price point for the particular suburb of Mullumbimby ranges between $750,000 and $1 million,” the report advised.
“The product at this price point is varied between either an older style dwelling or newer product.
“The older dwellings comprise single level houses built about the 1950s located in the flat part of Mullumbimby close to the local township,”
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mullumbimby-124897086" target="_blank">2 Palm Avenue</a>, Mullumbimby (above) has been listed for $989,000.
Similarly a five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mullumbimby-122164038" target="_blank">871 Main Arm Road</a>, Mullumbimby (below) has been listed for $845,000.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/20/871%20Main%20Arm%20Road.jpg" alt="">
 “If interest rates remain low and the demand for these particular houses remains high, the current sustainability of these houses to the market place will remain unchanged,” the report said.
 “People tend to be paying a significant premium for a renovated or revamped classic product in this suburb.
“There is both opportunity for renovation in Mullumbimby and for purchase of properties that have already had renovations done.”
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Mullumbimby in demand with interstate buyers: HTW

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The Gladstone residential market is beginning to drift to the bottom of the property cycle, according to Herron Todd White’s latest May report.
The property valuation firm says that the main driver for this area at the moment is affordability.
“The market appears to be drifting along the bottom of the property cycle at present.
“The key driver at the moment is affordability.
“Value levels for all property types are the lowest they have been in over a decade and this has resulted in significantly increased activity.
“In the past, Gladstone’s property market has always been driven by major industrial projects in the area, resulting in demand or lack thereof for accommodation for workers.
“While there have been a few possibilities of new projects thrown into the ring over the past several months, nothing has been set in stone,” the report stated.
Herron Todd White says that the last few months have seen a shortage of good quality residential stock in the area.
“The market has seen a changing of the guard in the past few months with increased confidence surrounding the economy and jobs.
“Much of the activity in the last few months has been in the bottom price sectors of the market which has now led to a shortage of good quality stock.
“Signs the market is beginning to move forward include decreasing vacancy rates and decreasing days on the market.
“Because of this increased demand we may start to see a slight uplift in values in the coming months.
“The market should continue to improve on the back of increasing business confidence and more job opportunities,” the report commented.
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-gladstone+central-125324346" target="_blank">95 Central Lane</a>, Gladstone Central (above) has been listed for $289,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-calliope-124945218" target="_blank">7 Trudy Avenue</a>, Calliope (below) has been listed for $275,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/7%20Trudy%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-barney+point-119213067" target="_blank">1/47 O’Connell Street</a>, Barney Point (below) was recently sold for $136,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/1_47%20OConnell%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-beecher-124130078" target="_blank">1 Monaros Court</a>, Beecher (below) was recently sold in April for $554,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/1%20Monaros%20Court.jpg" alt="">
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Gladstone residential market drifts at the bottom of property price cycle: HTW

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There is a possibility that Newcastle’s residential market might cool down soon, according to Herron Todd White’s recent report.
The property valuation firm says that various factors need to be considered that could potentially end the boom.
“The Newcastle market has been hot for a considerable period of time.
"There are any number of factors that could derail the present state, however the most likely would be the boring and just plain vanilla buyer fatigue.
"This happens at the back end of every boom.
"The market gets so hot that buyers panic.
"The overriding emotion is one of fear - fear of missing out or fear of being left behind.
"Buyers start doing crazy things in order to secure their properties such as putting ridiculous offers in before auction in an attempt to stop it from getting to an open bidding frenzy at auction time.
"That can only last so long though.
"There always comes a point when the market collectively says “You know what? We are done, we can’t take it anymore, we are just going to sit this one out”.
"When that point occurs, and it always does, the market returns to a sense of normalcy.
"Agents have to work that bit harder to achieve a sale.
"Vendors can’t sit back as smugly and causally sift through offer after offer and hand select the best,” the report stated.
Interest rates, coal prices and unemployment could contribute to a stalling market Herron Todd White says.
“The usual macro-economic factors are always in play when it comes to the Hunter housing market.
"Interest rates, coal prices and unemployment rates are always near the top of any list of what may stall a market.
"What happens there is anyone’s guess but changes in any of these metrics will always have a strong impact on the local market.
"As an example, when interest rates increase this correlates almost overnight to fewer valuations being undertaken in the immediate aftermath of a change.
"This doesn’t necessarily impact prices but it does impact the number of homes being sold and transacted.
"The number of homes being sold directly relates to one half of the crucial demand versus supply equation,” the report commented.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-wallsend-125475438" target="_blank">18 Courtney Close</a>, Wallsend (above) has been listed with a price guide of between $435,000 to $455,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-merewether-125475382" target="_blank">180 Morgan Street</a>, Mereweather (below) has been listed with a price guide of $890,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/16/180%20Morgan%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-maryville-125320994" target="_blank">75 Northumberland Street</a>, Maryville (below) was recently sold for $890,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/16/75%20Northumberland%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-hamilton-125317538" target="_blank">172 Denison Street</a>, Hamilton (below) was recently sold for $1.2 million.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/16/172%20Denison%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Newcastle's residential market boom might cool down: HTW

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The outlook for retail markets in Brisbane continues to be generally positive, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that however there is now an increasing perception that yields may finally have reached a low point.
“To put the story of recent years into perspective, we have seen retail yields generally move by between 150 and 200 basis points, which based on a starting yield of say 8 percent, translates to capital growth of upwards of 25 percent over a three year period.
 In some instances, capital growth has been upward of 35 percent,” the report stated.
Sales activity has been moderate for the quarter.
Major transactions include Arana Hills Kmart at $67 million, Everton Plaza at $27.5 million and Caboolture Square at $27.5 million.
These showed yields of between 6 percent and 7.25 percent.
At the convenience end of the spectrum there has been less activity with only two centres selling under $10 million.
Both of these were in the North Lakes region and showed yields of between 6.5 percent and 7 percent, the report stated.
Overall, the volume of sales activity has generally been low, primarily as a result of a shortage of stock and lack of other strong yielding investment options.
“With the perception however that yields will be bottoming out, we anticipate a rise in investment sales activity, particularly if interest rates start to rise and there is any suggestion of capital values starting to fall,” the report predicted.
Retail rentals continue to be reasonably restrained with ongoing difficult trading conditions in many sectors putting the brakes on rental growth.
The weakness is evident across the board as high levels of competition, flat wages, internet retailing and changing consumer shopping patterns all contribute to a very tough retail environment.
Good buying opportunities in the market are limited at present as all reasonable assets are heavily scrutinised by a wide number of investors.
There is potentially some more opportunity to value add with secondary centres but even these are holding their value fairly well making owners reluctant to sell.
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Brisbane's retail market outlook remains positive: HTW

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The retail segment in Darwin in 2017 will experience its greatest shake up for many years when not one but two new regional shopping centres will open their doors for business, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that Gateway is located on the highway on the fringe of Palmerston CBD, 18 kilometres south-east of Darwin.
This is a joint venture project between the Coombes Property Group (with local connections) and Challenger, being constructed by Hutchinsons.
It will offer a Woolworths, Big W, cinema complex and over 100 specialties and is expected to open mid-year.
Also expected to open mid-year is Coolalinga Village, located in the Darwin rural area 25 kilometres south-east of Darwin on the opposite side of the track from a large Woolworths-based complex.
Coolalinga Village is being developed by Gwelo, a long-standing Darwin developer and will be anchored by Coles and K-Mart.
There is already a fast food outlet and a service station on the site, but the main development will accommodate additional specialties with further stages already planned.
“We will therefore move from a situation where Darwin’s main growth corridor to the south-east has been under serviced by retail for many years to a situation where Palmerston and rural area residents will be spoilt for choice.
Not only will these two major centres be an option, but also new smaller centres at Bakewell, Rosebery, Bellamack and Zuccoli which are already trading or, in the case of Zuccoli, will be trading soon.
When you add to this the existing Palmerston Shopping Centre and Oasis Shopping Centre, the options are quite wide,” the report stated.
The effects on the rental market for retail space remain to be seen but the increased competitive tension between all these centres does result in some choices for tenants which have not always been available in the past.
"This may place some downward pressure on rents however if each centre can attract sufficient patronage this may not be the case," the report warned.
Certainly there will be some effect on Casuarina, which is currently Darwin’s dominant retail precinct.
"Casuarina is disadvantaged by its location in the northern suburbs which is close to the hospital and university but somewhat removed from the south-east urban growth corridor.
Casuarina is already re-inventing itself as a destination rather than just a mall retailer, with a new restaurant and entertainment precinct," the report advised.
At present, anecdotal evidence is pointing to population decline across Darwin and unless a major employment driver emerges soon, then this population decline will inevitably result in reduced trading for all retailers and difficulties for each centre attracting sufficient patronage.
“We are seeing weakness across all property segments in Darwin at the moment and the challenge will be to ensure sufficient population growth to ensure the viability of all these new outlets as well as existing facilities,” the report stated.
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Darwin's retail market to get a boost due to new retail developments

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Sydney’s retail market has grown substantially over the past 12 months, according to a recent Herron Todd White report.
The property valuation firms says that the retail market in Sydney has seen substantial growth over the past 12 months as a result of increased demand for good investment assets, growth in rental income and generally lower vacancy rates.
The next 12 months look set to follow a similar trend. Increased demand from investors will continue to drive the market.
Properties with established retail tenants will be popular this year.
“Late in 2016 we saw some strong sales which showed tight capitalisation rates for assets with strong lease covenants, including some with sub 5% capitalisation rates in the Sydney CBD,” the report stated.
The demand for CBD assets remains strong as the buzz around infrastructure improvements continues.
Generally rents look likely to remain stable this year, HTW noted although an increase in prime locations was evident in 2016 with a strong probability of this continuing in 2017.
"Recent media coverage of failing fashion retail chains may have some impact on demand from tenants.
"However food and beverage outlets seem to be going strong in most locations, with demand for these types of retail properties likely to continue.
"Suburban retail assets with good lease covenants have also seen growth over the past 12 months.
"This is likely to continue as investors look for strong performing assets with future growth potential."
Strip retail with a history of good retail trade such as King Street, Newtown; Darling Street, Balmain; and Crown Street, Surry Hills have all seen an increase in sales activity which looks set to continue in an upward trend in 2017.
Looking ahead, the outlook for retail in Sydney overall remains positive for 2017, HTW added.
“We expect prime locations to continue to perform well along with properties perceived to have growth or redevelopment opportunities in the future.
"That said we are of the opinion that the market is reaching the peak of the cycle and any tightening of monetary policy or increase in the cost of debt will result in the prevailing investment yields not being sustainable.
"For the time being though, all signs are that 2017 will be a good year for retail assets,” the report stated.
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Sydney retail market rises while rents remain steady: HTW

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Echuca's residential market continues to remain strong with tight supply, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) May report.
The property valuation firm says that the lack of supply is likely to be temporarily alleviated due to additional supply in both Moama and Echuca.
“The local market continues to be relatively strong with generally tight supply on account of limited residential land supply in the past 12 to 18 months, although this is likely to be alleviated in the short term by additional supply in both Moama and more particularly Echuca,” the report said.
“Average pricing has pushed up in recent times with good demand and limited supply in the $350,000 to $450,000 bracket resulting in an upward shift in demand for properties priced in excess of $400,000 for mortgage belt type properties.
“Melbourne buyers continue to underpin the higher end of the market with several off river sales in excess of $800,000, particularly in Moama for custom built and well finished properties.
“The buoyant agricultural sector has also been a positive for the local economy.
“A slow down in the market in Melbourne or closure of a significant factory would likely affect the higher market segments and mortgage belt segments respectively, although there is likely to be significant cushioning from any metropolitan softening because the local market has not charged ahead at the same rate, with local prices more likely to plateau.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-echuca-124713066" target="_blank">244 Farley Road</a>, Echuca (above) has been listed for $435,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-echuca-125472554" target="_blank">11 Charlton Court</a>, Echuca (below) has been listed for $445,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/11%20Charlton%20Court.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-echuca-124328474" target="_blank">135 Stawell Street</a>, Echuca (below) was recently sold for $422,500.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/135%20Stawell%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-echuca-125123286" target="_blank">204 High Street</a>, Echuca (below) was recently sold for $376,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/19/204%20High%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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