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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

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

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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.
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Adelaide retail market shown no growth for several years: HTW

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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="">
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South-west Victorian farm sales increasing: HTW

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

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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.
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Perth retail market continues to experience increasing vacancy rates: HTW

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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.
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NSW Central Coast granny flats doubling investor income: HTW

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

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

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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.
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Sydney Inner West residential market continues to defy expectations: HTW

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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="">
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