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 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
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.
</section>
</section>

[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

<html><body>
Toowoomba’s housing market is starting to decline, but price growth is still apparent for current vendors.
According to Herron Todd White’s latest report, the property valuation firm says that in the past month Toowoomba’s housing market was beginning to decline and now it is set to continue declining.
Despite Toowoomba’s residential market being past it’s peak it can also be described as multi speed.
There is currently an oversupply of residential products, particularly units, that emerged during 2016.
As a result vacancy rates have increased while rental rates and investor interest has reduced.
“While properties in the sub $400,000 market have showed some signs of regression in value and rental rates, it appears that higher end property above $600,000 and even the $1 million plus price point have enjoyed a good level of interest with some strong sales being achieved,” the report stated.
Herron Todd White says that properties in the mid-range has also moved along steadily with a good level of interest from owner occupiers.
“Market performance appears to be particularly property type and location specific.
Higher priced established properties in the eastern suburbs appear to be enjoying strong interest from owner occupiers (third and fourth home buyers), while interest in the western suburbs, which largely appeals to first home buyers and investors, has softened,” the report commented.
Herron Todd White says that despite major projects occurring in the area, the residential values are anticipated to remain stable this year.
“The vacancy rate at slightly above 3% combined with recent interest rate increases for investors is likely to keep the lower end of the market subdued.
The market will be positively influenced through the creation of long term sustainable employment opportunities, which may be generated by the flow on effects of the transport infrastructure projects underway, in planning and completed (TSRC, Wellcamp Brisbane West Airport and Inland Rail).
Investment activity may be reignited if major lenders were able to focus the current tightening of lending criteria on the major capital city markets only, while supporting investment in regional markets,” the report stated.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-03%20at%201.30.24%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/03/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-03%20at%201.30.24%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Meanwhile Ipswich’s housing market is now currently beginning to recover.
Sydney now is steadily rising once again.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-withcott-125452658" target="_blank">61 Parkridge Drive</a> in Withcott, Toowoomba (above) has been listed for over $519,000 having last traded for $110,000 in 2004.
A three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-rockville-125320666" target="_blank">5 Kettle Street</a> in Rockville (below), just outside of the Toowoomba CBD is under offer having been listed for $249,000.
<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/2017/05/12/5%20Kettle%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-east+toowoomba-124494894" target="_blank">79 Herries Street</a>, East Toowoomba (below) was sold last week for $529,000. It last sold for $300,000 in 2013.
<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/2017/05/12/79%20Herries%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-rockville-124326502" target="_blank">158 Tor Street</a>, Rockville (below) was sold in last week for $345,000. It last traded for $295,000 in 2006.
<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/2017/05/12/158%20Tor%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Last month Property Observer reported that NSW regions were at the top of the property clock for houses.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Toowoomba housing market set to decline as Sydney rises: May HTW Clock

<html><body>
Retail throughout metropolitan Adelaide has not shown any significant growth for several years, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that retail trade figures published by Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) show retail turnover for South Australia have been at growth per quarter of below 1.5 percent since December 2014 2.4 percent growth, which was the highest quarter of growth since March 2008.
This is consistent with the national trend.
"This poor retail performance is not expected to change in the short term, with the low interest rate environment and rising house prices being offset by weak wage growth and continued softening in the labour market.
The sustainability of many businesses is challenged when retail trade continues to be this poor.
As a result, rent growth has stabilised, however in some sectors, reduced significantly. Vacancy is up and incentive use is increasing," the report stated.
Retail strip shopping has continued to show decline with cafés the best performing use.
In particular, rural retail tenancies are being negatively affected by contractions meaning that there is no demand for a commercial use.
"In some cases, within smaller towns, unless these shops can be converted to a residential use there is almost no demand.
Key locations such as The Parade Norwood, O’Connell Street North Adelaide and Jetty Road Glenelg, which are the premium suburban retail streets, remain at values out of reach to owner- occupiers, and with declining rentals they are less attractive to risk sensitive investors.
Even Rundle Mall, at the heart of the Adelaide CBD is experiencing vacancies," the report advised.
Shopping centre rents are also reported to be decreasing even within otherwise well performing centres.
This is resulting in numerous tenants being retained in ‘Holding Over’.
"Hold Over rents typically include penalty rates which may be considered better than a vacancy to the managers, this will take time to be absorbed," the report stated.
</body></html>

Adelaide retail market shown no growth for several years: HTW

<html><body>
Rural sales activity is increasing in south-west Victoria, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The activity is primarily small to medium size farms purchased by local farmers wishing to expand.
The property valuation firm says there is strong interest in grazing holdings suitable for sheep or beef cattle of between 100 and 175 hectares, as well as larger holdings up to 800 hectares.
“Agents report the enquiry for outpaddocks around Warrnambool is very strong, listings are down and agents’ real estate advertisements are now regularly including a list of wanted property for prospective purchasers,” the report advised.
“We are aware of a large dairy farm in the Mount Gambier district having just been purchased by a private New Zealand syndicate.
“An expression of interest marketing closing on 21 April 2017 for a well developed dairy farm of 160 hectares between Cobden and Simpson will provide a pointer to the current dairy farm market.” 
A rural cropping land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-cropping-vic-illowa-7869850" target="_blank">35 Settlers Lane</a>, Illowa (above) has been listed for $325,000.
Similarly a 20 hectare rural land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-vic-warrnambool-7613547" target="_blank">135 Boiling Down Road</a>, Warrnambool (below) has been listed for sale.
<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/2017/04/26/135%20Boiling%20Down%20Road.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

South-west Victorian farm sales increasing: HTW

<html><body>
Property valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest report says despite the residential property market in the Illawarra performing at strong levels of sustained growth, it is difficult to pin down exactly where the hottest market is.
“We know that there is currently strong demand throughout the Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven LGAs," HTW noted.
Auction clearance rates remain high and properties selling by private treaty are typically selling within a month.
"Sale periods of less than two weeks are common,” the report stated.
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-wollongong-125239158" target="_blank">10/78 Campbell Street</a>, Wollongong (above) has been listed with a price guide of between $820,000 to $860,000.
Similarly a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-wollongong-125035462" target="_blank">12/2 Edward Street</a>, Wollongong (below) has been listed for between $850,000 to $880,000.
<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/2017/04/20/12_2%20Edward%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The strong demand is being driven by a number of factors including low interest rates, the media and the flow on effect from Sydney, down to Wollongong, down to the Shoalhaven.
"As buyers miss out on purchasing properties they become more and more desperate and get to the point where they’ll pay whatever it takes to get a listing off the market to secure a property.
This occurs mostly amongst first and second home buyers, especially where they are competing with cashed up investors.
"A property type that appears to be getting a premium is a house in an established area that has nothing to spend on it, for example a relatively new build or a recent full renovation," the report stated.
The property presents really well and the buyer will not have to spend any extra money on it and is aimed at second home buyers.
First home buyers are usually happier to buy at a lower price point and are willing to complete renovations on older dwellings.
“It is hard to imagine that the strong price growth can be sustainable.
"History tells us that the property market is cyclical and strong growth is followed by flatter periods or prices going backwards.
"Unfortunately we do not have an accurate crystal ball so all we can do is speculate.
"Our opinion is that growth may slow towards the end of the year if interest rates rise.
"We don’t imagine that prices would go backwards unless there is a dramatic financial crisis,” the report stated.
</body></html>

Strong demand throughout Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven LGAs: HTW

<html><body>
Weakness in discretionary spending habits of consumers continues and looks set to stay in place throughout 2017, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that retail owners remain under pressure to maintain occupancy in their assets, with evidence of increasing incentives in this market.
"Vacancy rates increased across the board throughout the last year however remain lowest in the Hay and Murray Street Mall locations, followed then by regional shopping centres.
There is however an increasing trend towards tenants on short term leases, holding over and pop-up style shops," the report stated.
HTW advises that construction activity in regional and sub-regional sector will need to increase over the coming years.
"Over the next few years construction activity across the regional and sub-regional centre sector will need to increase as owners seek to grow and reposition their assets," the report advised.
Retail as an asset class is in the midst of a changing paradigm with many assets under utilised or failing to meet the expectations of consumers.
The integration of better child care, office, health and entertainment offerings needs to be considered to keep assets front of mind for the ever more discerning consumer.
"However increasing vacancies, stagnant or declining rents along with a moderating population growth have created more uncertainty for the timing of some of the mooted major centre expansions.
Recently, rising neighbourhood centre space combined with subdued demand has caused rental rates to deteriorate.
Neighbourhood centre rents declined by approximately 10% during 2016 to average around $600 per square metre.
Retail as an asset class remains on the radar for many investors (institutional, syndicates and private high net worth individuals) as it provides a relatively secure cash flow or upgradable investment options," the report stated.
This has resulted in investors accepting lower internal rates of return which is flowing into tighter yields for quality assets.
“We have noted a marked increase in eastern states based private investors who are willing to accept far lower yields for assets than local investors are prepared to accept,” the report stated.
The focus of the next WA government needs to be on investment in infrastructure which will support the shift from Perth being a mining headquarters to becoming a bona fide tourist destination.
"With that investment from government will come private development opportunities in the form of hotels and tourism based centres which will in turn drive the demand for world class retail opportunities, which will be the impetus to trigger retail expansion.
Government and industry need to work together on this solution otherwise the outlook for retail in Perth on the whole will remain bleak," the report advised.
</body></html>

Perth retail market continues to experience increasing vacancy rates: HTW

<html><body>
The NSW Central Coast's strongest performing locations - both now and for the past several years - has been the peninsula suburbs at the southern end of the region, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that included Umina Beach, Woy Woy and Ettalong with records being set and broken in very short periods of time.
"Almost daily, we talk to people and hear the surprise at the prices being paid," HTW's latest report noted.
"These areas have been around forever.
"Originally a holiday or retirement destination, this has been evolving over the years to become popular with first home buyers or those looking at a lower cost base.
"Nowadays, these areas have become a magnet for renovators, value adders with those looking to exit the Sydney market finding these areas particularly attractive due to the comparative level of affordability," the report stated.
It’s this exodus from the Sydney market that is seen to be driving the values in these locations.
"Regularly, we are seeing prices rocketing past the $700,000 mark when the same property could have been purchased for much less just a few short years ago.
A three bedroom villa at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-villa-nsw-ettalong+beach-125076934" target="_blank">3/30 Flounder Road</a>, Ettalong Beach (above) has been listed with a price guide of between $675,000 to $725,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-woy+woy-124940918" target="_blank">35 Pratley Street</a>, Woy Woy (below) has been listed with a price guide of between $670,000 to $735,000.
<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/2017/04/20/35%20Pratley%20Street.jpg" alt="">
"Knowing this, established locals are reluctant to pay the asking prices, but for every hesitant local, there is a new resident eager to step in," the report noted.
$700,000 nowadays will secure a 2-to 3-bedroom fibro dwelling close to the shops and beach or a mid 1970s style, 3-bedroom brick and tile a little further from the shops," the report advised.
Renovations are aplenty and the builders are happy.
"The peninsula has always had a love affair with backyard granny flats, mostly in the form of a converted garage and some even being council approved.
But recently, they have been popping up everywhere and granny flat builders are flat out.
These are particularly popular with investors who in many cases are effectively doubling the income received from a property.
"Whether the proliferation of granny flats is good for the area remains to be seen, but we have been saying for some time now that the increasing values have passed the point of being sustained on an ongoing basis and we still believe this to be the case," the report stated.
"The market moves on without waiting and whilst we can worry about the future of the peninsula’s values, a flow on effect is being seen in other areas further along the coastal strip and at this stage, we haven’t heard any complaints of things getting out of hand.
“In this regard, we see the older areas on the fringe of the Gosford CBD as being the big winners.
"This includes areas such as Narara, Niagara Park and Wyoming,” the report stated.
</body></html>

NSW Central Coast granny flats doubling investor income: HTW

<html><body>
The office property market in April has none at the peak of market, implying the top of the commercial property clock by valuation firm Herron Todd White is empty.
But several regions/cities are approaching the peak of the market, namely Coffs Harbour (above), Gold Coast, NSW Far North Coast and Newcastle, which joined Melbourne at the position.
Apart from that, there wasn’t much movement in the rest of the property clock, according to HTW’s latest update. Sydney remains a rising market, while Perth is approaching the bottom.
While the top of market is empty, there are quite a few places at the bottom of market position, including three capital cities — Adelaide, Darwin and Hobart.  The new entrant to the list of 9 is Wide Bay.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/21/HTWCommercialApril17.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/21/HTWCommercialApril17.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/26/HTWOfficeVer2-3-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/26/HTWOfficeVer2-3-2.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

No region at peak of office market, but several approaching the top: HTW April clock 

<html><body>
The strongest locations on the NSW mid north coast for residential markets are generally the larger regional towns including Port Macquarie, Wauchope, Forster and Tuncurry, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that pockets within the Port Macquarie region include established coastal areas as well as coastal villages immediately south such as Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills.
These areas are a mixture of older homes that have been either renovated or not and new homes either constructed or under construction (especially in the southern villages).
All of these areas are within close proximity of the beaches and local services.
HTW states investors can expect three bedroom homes to cost half a million dollars.
“Entry points for houses within these areas range from $500,000 for a standard 3-bedroom home to $750,000 for something that may have ocean or golf course views or is above average.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-125197590" target="_blank">18 Newmarket Grove</a>, Port Macquarie (above) has been listed for $498,500.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-forster-125126470" target="_blank">5 Carawa Street</a>, Forster (below) has been listed for $510,000.
<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/2017/04/20/5%20Carawa%20Street.jpg" alt="">
This is well above prices in 2014 when the entry point would have been in the low $400,000 range.
Land sales within the new residential subdivisions on the outer fringes of Port Macquarie at Sovereign Hills and surrounding areas are being sold quickly with demand outstripping construction at present.
With the current fast paced rate of sale and no further large scale residential developments for release in the immediate future, land and house prices are expected to continue to increase.
This domino effect will also fuel demand and most likely increase land prices in other subdivisions in other regional towns as people look to these areas for more reasonable pricing,” the report advised.
HTW notes that unit sales are increasing, perhaps to allow investors or first home owners an opportunity to enter the market.
“The most keenly sought after properties are family friendly dwellings, either houses or large villas, either renovated or un-renovated in areas throughout the mid north coast.
However as house property prices increase we have noticed an increase in unit sales, allowing the investor or first home owner the opportunity of entering the market at the lower end,” the report stated.
HTW says that lack of stocks and low interest rates are the primary drivers of the market.
“Strong demand, lack of available stock for sale and low interest rates appear to be the major drivers of the local real estate market and are causing rising housing prices throughout most of the mid north coast,” the report stated.
Is it sustainable asks HTW.
“That is the key question at present.
As banks increase interest rates for investment property loans we may see a slight slowing in this sector.
However it is likely that owner-occupiers will take up any slack in demand, thus keeping the market moving.
Barring any major downturn in the overall economy, the continuing rising demand and increasing prices should allow the mid north coast market to remain strong over the coming months,” the report stated.
</body></html>

North Coast residential market driven by low interest rates and lack of stock: HTW

<html><body>
The Inner West has continued to defy expectations with the market going from strength to strength across all suburbs, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that auction results continue to hover between 85% and 90% with the continued lack of stock now being the main driver.
"The strongest growth has been for houses in the $2 million to $4 million price bracket and although growth has slowed for units, the $1 million to $1.5 million price bracket has been the strongest.
The suburb of Rozelle has seen some of the strongest growth across the inner west with a 2016 median house price of $1.577 million, up 13.5% from 2015 (source: PriceFinder)," the report advised.
Rozelle has always been a highly sought after suburb and demand is driven by proximity to the CBD, excellent bus services and the café culture.
"Rozelle comprises a mixture of property styles, with period style homes traditionally in the highest demand.
As with many period style homes in the inner western suburbs, high quality renovations and well-designed extensions tend to achieve premium prices.
An example of this is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-rozelle-124483558" target="_blank">202 Evans Street</a>, Rozelle (above) which sold on 10 February 2017 for $3 million.
This circa 1900s property is situated on a 251 square metre allotment and has been renovated and extended, comprising 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom accommodation with a single lock-up garage," the report stated.
The main demand for this price point in Rozelle is from the owner-occupier market rather than the investor, as owner-occupiers see greater opportunity with dated or dilapidated properties in need of renovation.
“Although we expect houses in Rozelle to see continued growth, we predict it to be more subdued than the previous three years,” the report stated.
</body></html>

Sydney Inner West residential market continues to defy expectations: HTW

<html><body>
New South Wales continues to remain at the peak of market, with the Central Coast, Coffs Harbour and Newcastle at the top of valuation firm Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest National Property Clock for houses in April.
NSW continues to dominate even in ‘approaching the peak market’ position with Sydney and NSW North Coast the new entrants, highlighting just how hot the property market is in the state.
The bottom is made up by Darwin, Gladstone and Mackay, while approaching the bottom are Perth, Alice Springs, Gippsland and Rockhampton. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/20/April21HTWHouses.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/20/April21HTWHouses.png" alt="">
NSW Central Coast 
By far, the strongest performing location in the region both now and for the past several years has to be peninsula suburbs at the southern end of the region. This includes Umina Beach, Woy Woy and Ettalong with records being set and broken in very short periods of time. 
“Almost daily, we talk to people and hear the surprise at the prices being paid,” says the HTW update.
These areas have become a magnet for renovators, value adders with those looking to exit the Sydney market finding these areas particularly attractive due to the comparative level of affordability, says HTW.
“It’s this exodus from the Sydney market that is seen to be driving the values in these locations.”
Prices have rocketed past the $700,000 mark when the same property could have been purchased for much less just a few short years ago. 
Newcastle 
The Newcastle market is the strongest it has been in quite a while. 
Recently there has been plenty of media attention repeating the mantra that Newcastle is an up-and-coming Sydney, with less population, less gridlock and lower property prices. 
Agents are fielding plenty of enquiries from out of town buyers and they can definitely compete favourably with the locals at auctions; when you sell your property at Sydney prices, its gives you plenty of dollars to spend at Newcastle prices. 
Take for example Mayfield East; houses in this suburb have smashed through the $500,000 barrier and powered up to join neighbouring suburbs in the $600,000 to $700,000 range, say HTW.
Property Observer found a three-bedroom house (pictured below) in the suburb that recently changed hands for $670,000.
The address is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-mayfield+east-125159346" target="_blank">34 Kitchener Parade, Mayfield East, NSW 2304</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/04/20/Newcastle1.jpg" alt=""> 
Coffs Harbour 
The Coffs Coast is known for its lifestyle benefits with demand traditionally being driven by population growth from retirees and more significantly families moving from the southern regions looking for a more affordable and relaxed lifestyle.
The appeal of the area is a reflection of the climate, attractive nature of the locality including its many beaches and diversity of housing product close to the coast with good regional facilities.
These features make the area a popular tourist destination with various larger scale resort developments located in the northern section of the town. 
“Due to the geographical features of the area, supply is generally in the coastal localities and it is no surprise this is where we see the strongest levels of demand,” say HTW. 
The northern beach localities of Sapphire Beach, Moonee Beach, Emerald Beach, Safety Beach and Woolgoolga have all been strong performers in recent times which is a reflection of the increasing demand brought about due to these lifestyle factors, good level of services available, easy access to the main centre of Coffs Harbour, continuing low interest rates and decreasing supply of product. 
This has resulted in significant increases in values over the past 12 months and it is becoming increasingly more difficult to find quality property within the affordable sub $500,000 market. As a result, the secondary or cheaper beach side locations of Sandy Beach and Corindi Beach have now also increased in popularity and value accordingly. 
Centrally, the sought after beach side suburbs within Coffs Harbour of Diggers Beach, The Jetty and Sawtell are the best performers in terms of strong capital growth. There is a mix of residential properties available appealing to a wide variety of purchasers looking for lower end units in the $275,000 to $350,000 range to the high end prestige properties in excess of $1 million. 
To illustrate the point, Property Observer found a two-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-sawtell-124705458" target="_blank">28 Eleventh Avenue, </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-sawtell-124705458" target="_blank">Sawtell, NSW 2452</a> (pictured below) that recently sold for $624,000.
<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/CoffsHarbour1.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Htw

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Htw