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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

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The Newcastle housing market is currently balanced with rental vacancy in a period of stability, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that the trend in the Newcastle is towards a tightening rental vacancy.
It also noted a very strong demand for newly constructed houses.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%2012.43.16%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/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%2012.43.16%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Newcastle is at the peak of the housing market with new properties almost always being sold at prices exceeding their potential resale value, the firm says.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-newcastle-123754658" target="_blank">62 Wolfe Street</a>, Newcastle (above) recently sold for $975,000.
Similarly, a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-newcastle-121589098" target="_blank">336 Wharf Road</a>, Newcastle (below) recently sold for $660,000.
<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/2017/03/21/336%20Wharf%20Road.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-newcastle-406786796" target="_blank">141 Parry Street</a>, Newcastle (below) is available for rent from $530 per week.
<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/2017/03/23/141%20Parry%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A seven bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-newcastle-413297491" target="_blank">18 Church Street</a>, Newcastle (below) is available from $185 per week.
<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/2017/03/23/18%20Church%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Balanced rental housing market in Newcastle: HTW

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The first home buyers grant is providing financial help for first timers to purchase land and build in the Ballina region, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says Suffolk Park and Byron Bay seem to be outpriced for first home buyers, but first home buyers are looking to build in this area utilising land and home packages to their advantage.
It points to the new estate known as EPIQ in Lennox Head, where vacant land prices range from $250,000 to $300,000, as one such example.
HTW also says that in the Ballina and Byron Shires, there has been increased evidence of group buying.
“This is more specifically noted in the new coastal estates located at Wollongbar, Cumbalum, Lennox Head, and also using already established property in Ocean Shores,” it says.
“Potential buyers seem to work together in purchasing VL blocks over 800 square metres and then look to subdivide.
“We have also seen groups of two buying established homes that already contain one main house, and look to build another dwelling (as seen in Ocean Shores).
“Developers in the areas of Byron Bay and Ocean Shores seem to be creating products that are helping first home buyers get into the market.
“These development works include the construction of units containing one and two bedrooms at maximum.
“In this effort to minimize the overall accommodation provided, it in turn lowers the overall cost, which therefore opens it up to the first home and entry level buyers.
“This product is appealing as it is creating a new way of affordability in the coastal resort market.”
However, HTW cautions buyers against these products and says first home buyers looking to enter the market right now should try and buy an established property.
“As new estates are released, local builders have been able to increase their building costs, resulting in a higher rate per square metre in turn pushing the price up on a house and land package,” it says.
“Therefore, there seems at the moment to be better value in finding an established house to purchase at a lower price.
“The cost of building is slowly increasing due to a high demand of builders verses lack of builders in the Ballina and Byron Shires.
“First home buyers should pick a path of either buying a unit or an established home to maximize their money for value.”
Units either in Cumbalum or Ocean Shores, with medium unit price points of $350,000 to $500,000, may be attractive options.
For established homes, HTW suggests first time buyers look at Ocean Shores (a median price point of $450,000 to $550,000) or in Lennox Head ($600,000 to $700,000).
“The current low interest rates are on your side, but if you were looking specifically at long term capital growth historically this has been achieved closer to the coastal regions,” HTW says.
“The biggest mistake that valuers have seen first home buyers make in the Ballina and Byron Shires is a lack of careful planning in regards to additional costs upon entry into a property.
“For example buying land and building, first home buyers may not factor into their budget addition costs such as window furnishings, fencing, landscaping, retaining walls and other such additions that increase the initial market cost of the home from beginning to end.
“We have also seen the same costing mistakes in the established housing market, where there has been a lack of planning for renovations or improvements.”
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-ocean+shores-124453606" target="_blank">3/1 Bindaree Way</a>, Ocean Shores (above) was recently sold for $390,000.
Similarly a set of residential land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-suffolk+park-200973431" target="_blank">Lots 16-38 Seacliffs</a>, Suffolk Park (below) has a price guide of between $600,000 to $660,000.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Byron first time buyers of house and land packages beware: HTW

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In Toowoomba, 2016 saw a slowing level of sales activity and some value stabilisation following the boom period from 2014 into mid 2015, according to a recent update from HTW.
The valuation firm says 2017 looms as an interesting year for the market.
It is currently a hub for major infrastructure projects including the Toowoomba Second Range Crossing road construction, potential expansion of stage two of the Acland Coal Project and the imminent completion of QIC’s Grand Central Shopping Centre extension.
In terms of the residential housing market, HTW expects that values may remain relatively stable throughout 2017 despite these projects.
“The rental market is in a balanced situation with vacancy rates of around 3% keeping investors interested in the region, albeit at a lower level than in 2013 to 2015,” HTW says.
Key development areas include the suburbs of Glenvale, Cotswold Hills, Torrington, Kleinton, Highfields and Westbrook with a mix of owner occupier and investor orientated estates under development or planned.
“Smaller lots than the traditional 600 square metre to 1,000 square metre parcels are being developed with limited sales evidence to date available to provide an indication of market acceptance for these smaller lots,” the report says.
“There is a concentration of small lots, units and duplex buildings in Glenvale which could result in an oversupply of product in the short to medium term.”
Further west of Toowoomba, the towns of Chinchilla, Miles and Roma which all went through a significant growth phase during the coal seam gas infrastructure boom between 2011 and 2014 have suffered from the withdrawal of workers.
“The flow on effect has resulted in the oversupply of units, duplexes and four-bedroom houses and limited associated rental demand," HTW says.
“Increased mortgagee in possession sales activity has been noted with value regressions in excess of 50% over the past three to four years in some instances.
“On a positive note, values in these towns are returning to more sustainable levels that are reflective of their rural based economies.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-north+toowoomba-124373914" target="_blank">10 Raff Street</a>, North Toowoomba (above) has been listed for over $319,000.
Similarly a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-toowoomba+city-124847182" target="_blank">2/19 Abbey Street</a>, Toowoomba City (below) has been listed for $319,000.
<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/2017/02/27/2_19%20Abbey%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Threat of estate housing oversupply around Toowoomba: HTW

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The residential property market in the south-west of WA has weakened with reduced demand and values, however the market is quite mixed with some particularly sought after properties holding their values, according to a recent update from HTW.
The valuation firm says the volume of sales generally remains reasonable with adequate stock movement in most localities.
However, the top end of the market continues to be soft with an overall weak demand, the firms says.
“The exception is that there does seem to be reasonable demand for well-located properties that present to a high standard,” the report says.
The rural residential market is also continuing to slow with the majority of sales being below $1 million.
This market is experiencing extended selling periods and rents have fallen but are starting to stabilise while building activity has weakened.
“The slowdown in the state resource sector, continued weakness in the Perth property market and general uncertainty of the WA economy has promoted a downturn throughout the south-west WA real estate market,” HTW says.
“The extent of the downturn ranges from mild to moderate depending on the location and property type.
“As always is it difficult to predict future market conditions however we expect the year ahead could be more of the same or that the market may bottom out and stabilise.”
There are no significant drivers to suggest values will increase and there is limited demand from international buyers to spur the market in the region, the firm says.
It suggests the WA state government’s decision to increase the first home owner’s grant from $10,000 to $15,000 for 2017 could have a positive impact on the market.
“This is viewed as maybe having a stabilising effect but unfortunately the increase is unlikely to be high enough to overcome the negative factors influencing property values, for example the state’s high unemployment.
“We would recommend caution as some market segments are in decline and it remains unclear if the market has bottomed out.”
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-wa-bunbury-124819870" target="_blank">1/16 Wellington Street</a>, Bubury (above) has been listed from $350,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-carey+park-124389150" target="_blank">95 Wisbey Street</a>, Carey Park (below) has been listed for over $265,000.
<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/2017/02/27/95%20Wisbey%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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South-west WA property market conditions remain soft: HTW

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Sydney first home buyers should consider looking at suburbs further from the CBD, with good transport links, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says Hurstville and Sutherland are hubs on the eastern suburbs/Illawarra railway line which may be attractive options.
“First home buyers should be cautious of areas where a large number of units have been constructed and are about to commence as this could lead to an oversupply and put downward pressure on both prices and rents,” the report says.
“Botany/Mascot and Waterloo/ Zetland/Green Square in the inner-south, and Miranda in the Sutherland Shire are potential areas of concern.”
“Just remember if you’re a first home buyer stretching yourself too thin by purchasing something you can just barely afford, is risky – interest rates will start to rise at some stage so it is important to have a buffer built-in to your ability to finance your loan.”
Options are limited for first time buyers throughout greater Sydney and surging prices for the past few years has made it difficult to get into the market.
CoreLogic reports the median house price is currently sitting at $850,000, with a 20% deposit this translates to $170,000.
“The two biggest issues young buyers and first home buyers need to address are price and location. Firstly work out what is affordable and sort a mortgage that is serviceable,” HTW says.
It says the main areas for affordable housing and entry level investment with long term growth prospects are located on the outskirts of Sydney –
• Outer western Sydney, suburbs such as Penrith; Kingswood; Jordan Springs; Ropes Crossing with a median price for a 3-bedroom house at $570,000; $530,000; $625,000 and $595,000 respectfully. (domain)
• South west of Sydney, suburbs such as Leppington, Gregory Hills and Oran Park requiring $660,000 to $700,000 for the same 3-bedroom product.
“New estates within the south west growth precinct present solid long term growth opportunities thanks to the substantial infrastructure spending including Badgerys Creek Airport, investment in surrounding employment areas and updates to transport links.
“As recent times has shown us if you want growth then follow the infrastructure.
“We note land in Austral within a recently released subdivision starts from circa $360,000 and 3-bedroom house and land packages from $615,000, well below the Sydney wide median figure of $850,000.
“In addition to the lower entry point, this region presents a good option for both investors and owner-occupiers thanks to depreciation benefits, government incentives of buying a new property and most importantly capital growth prospects.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-penrith-124757482" target="_blank">44 Allard Street</a>, Penrith (above) has been listed for $640,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-ropes+crossing-124590474" target="_blank">16 Maiden Street</a>, Ropes Crossing (below) has been listed for $629,000.
<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/2017/03/09/16%20Maiden%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Go west to find affordable Sydney locations

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Apartments are the main options for first home buyers within the inner west, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says many new apartment buildings are being constructed within the suburbs of West Melbourne, Parkville and Travancore, while further west in the suburbs of Sunshine and Sunshine West there are affordable townhouse options.
According to CoreLogic, the median unit sale price in January 2017 for West Melbourne was $497,000, Parkville $497,000, Travancore $480,000, Sunshine $351,000 and Sunshine West $351,000 (source: RP Data).
“Developers particularly within the Sunshine area are building affordable townhouses for the first home buyer,” HTW says.
“Furthermore, within the inner suburbs apartments are being tailored and marketed to first home buyers by developers.
“Due to the magnitude of development currently occurring within the inner suburbs, first home buyers should be cautious when buying apartments.
“Once a volume of new stock comes to the market it could pose a risk to the apartment market.”
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-sunshine+west-124730726" target="_blank">2/3 Gum Street</a>, Sunshine West (above) has been listed for between $360,000 to $390,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-sunshine-124919230" target="_blank">8/39 Fraser Street</a>, Sunshine (below) has been listed in excess of $340,000.
<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/2017/03/10/8_39%20Fraser%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-west+melbourne-123487762" target="_blank">503/55 Jeffcott Street</a>, West Melbourne (below) has been listed for between $438,000 to $475,000.
<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/2017/03/10/503_55%20Jeffcott%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a one bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-west+melbourne-123861814" target="_blank">703/9 Dryburgh Street</a>, West Melbourne (below) has been listed for $478,600.
<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/2017/03/10/703_9%20Dryburgh%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Victoria's Sunshine West a rising market for first home buyers: HTW

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Launceston has an oversupply of industrial properties relative to demand, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that Launceston has a steady rental vacancy trend along with a stable rental rate trend.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.44.01%20am.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/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.44.01%20am.jpg" alt="">
However Launceston’s industrial sales is declining despite the market rising, the firm says.
Launceston’s economic situation is flat with significant value difference between quality properties with national tenants and comparable properties with local tenants.
A 855 square metre industrial warehouse at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-tas-launceston-502323710" target="_blank">6/16 - 18 Goodman Court</a>, Launceston (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 1733 square metre industrial warehouse at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-tas-launceston-502301290" target="_blank">2/7 - 9 Wilmot Street</a>, Launceston (below) has been listed for $850,000.
<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/2017/03/21/27-9%20Wilmot%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Oversupply of industrial properties in Launceston: HTW

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The NSW mid north coast has a balanced industrial market, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that there is a steady rental vacancy trend along with a stable rental rate trend.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%202.43.42%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/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%202.43.42%20pm.jpg" alt="">
There is a steady volume of property sales with the region's market starting to recover.
The local economic situation is currently flat with a small value difference between quality properties with national tenants and comparable properties with local tenants, HTW says.
A 54 hectare industrial warehouse, the Lansdowne Estate, at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-nsw-kundle+kundle-502326190" target="_blank">21/586 Lansdowne Road</a>, Kundle Kundle, (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 3895 square metre industrial complex at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-nsw-coffs+harbour-502294878" target="_blank">22-24 Marcia Street and 15 June Street</a>, Coffs Harbour (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/2017/03/21/22-24%20Marcia%20St%20%2015%20June%20St.jpg" alt="">
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Balanced industrial market in NSW's mid north coast: HTW

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The most popular property options available within the Melbourne CBD and inner city for first home buyers are apartments, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
But the valuation firm says the expected oversupply of city apartments and lack of capital growth can mean "they are not a wise long term investment."
“Apartments can appeal to disenchanted first home buyers who can’t afford an inner city dwelling but want the inner city lifestyle,” the report says.
“Inner city apartments can be desirable to young home owners as location means minimal travelling to work or social events and they often have common facilities such as gymnasiums, pools and saunas which are an incentive for lifestyle.”
The First Home Owners Grant of $10,000 offered by the Victorian government make off the plan apartment purchases appealing to first home buyers, HTW suggests.
“In the Melbourne CBD, $500,000 can get you a two bedroom, one bathroom apartment with a basement car space which would appear to be an affordable purchase point for most first home buyers,” it says.
A one bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-124950238" target="_blank">1805/27 Little Collins Street</a>, Melbourne (above) has been listed for between $390,000 to $410,000.
Similarly a two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-124673078" target="_blank">2006/280 Spencer Street</a>, Melbourne (below) has been listed for $550,000.
<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/2017/03/10/2006_280%20Spencer%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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HTW warns first home buyers inner Melbourne apartments are not a wise investment

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There was a relatively large number of cane farm sales in 2016 at central Queensland due to improved market sentiment caused by higher sugar prices, according to a Herron Todd White’s recent report.
The property valuation firm says that values remained generally firm.
Prospects for value growth through 2017 appeared likely up until milling reliability prevented the 2016-17 crop from being fully harvested.
It has been reported that approximately $20 million of crop has been left to stand over after one of the longest crushing seasons in history.
Growers who had hoped to expand in 2017 will now be reconsidering because of lower returns from the 2016–17 crop and expected lower yields from the 2017–18 crop due to follow on effects from the most recent crushing season.
Milling reliability is a now a major concern to cane farmers and will be a critical issue to farm values in the years ahead.
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