<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;

Joel Robinson

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

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

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The months of December and January are generally quiet months in South West Western Australia's rural property market with many taking holidays and taking stock post harvest, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that their research of Landgate records indicates 15 rural properties over 40 hectares settled in December 2016 and 13 properties over 40 hectares settled in January 2017.
Compared to last year’s 97 properties over 40 hectares in December 2015 and 82 properties over 40 hectares in January 2016 this is significantly down.
“We note that these settlements are likely to be from sales in the previous six to 12 months however are considered to give an indication of market activity.
We also note that the overall sale prices are also down with only five sales over the $1 million mark compared to 53 sales for the same two month period last year,” the report stated.
This is likely to be a result of a number of factors including severe frost events resulting in down grading of yield and quality estimates which were likely to have postponed purchasing decisions and also supply issues with a number of the larger landholdings being purchased last year and a number of above average years reversing some producers’ decisions to exit the industry.
“As we now know it has been reported that Western Australia has just had a record harvest on the back of an above average harvest and as a result market activity is likely to increase in line with an increase in liquidity throughout many regions,” the report stated.
Recent rainfall events across many wheatbelt areas have resulted in flooding but also provided some soil moisture with a number of farmers already working their land ready for seeding.
Overall confidence remains high in many districts and we are likely to see more sales activity as a result which given the supply issues in some areas could result in an increase in land values.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

WA rural property market significantly subdued: HTW

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There is currently good inquiry for larger scale irrigation properties for investment entities looking at assets in excess of $10 million in Echuca, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that this demand has been underpinned by the strong 2016 seasonal conditions and the good water resource position and reduced allocation water markets.
It will be interesting to see how the market responds coming out of the 2016/17 season with significantly improved balance sheets relative to 2015/16 despite disappointing grain prices.
Agents report that because of the reduced listings in south west Victoria through the latter part of 2016, the rural property market for 2017 commenced with less than usual stock of property put to the market and this has contributed to a slower than usual kick off for 2017.
There is no denying confidence continues at an all time high, particularly for beef and sheep producers.
Even the dairy industry is continuing to show signs of improving which should translate to the property market. Watch this space.
The limited market activity has been primarily either farmers over the fence expanding and investors seeking scale and quality.
A 23 acre land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-cropping-vic-echuca-7858450" target="_blank">208 Anderson Road</a>, Echuca (above) has been listed for sale. It last sold for $92,000 in 1993.
Similarly a mixed farming land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-mixed+farming-vic-rushworth-7883038" target="_blank">163 Poulson Road</a>, Rushworth has been listed for $205,000, having last traded for $70,000 in 1985.
<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/2017/03/06/163%20Poulson%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Keen buyer inquiry for irrigation properties in Echuca: HTW

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Toowoomba continues to offer affordable options for first time buyers with a large supply of product on the market, steady investor interest and land developments benefiting affordability, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says land development in the western suburbs, including Glenvale and satellite suburbs such as Wyreema and Cambooya, have offered affordable land or house and land packages for first time buyers.
“Some new developments in the western suburbs have introduced small lots, which may be attractive to first time buyers because of their lower price points than traditional sized lots,” the report says.
“This has been enhanced by the current low interest rates, developer land rebate offerings and $20,000 first home owner grant available until 30 June 2017.”
An oversupply in some areas has resulted in price reductions across older established properties in the sub $400,000 market, significantly reduced asking rents and increased vacancy rates up to around 4%.
“First time buyers should consider all avenues such as an existing property in an older established area,” HTW says.
“An older, possibly smaller property in need of some [care] could present an opportunity for a first time buyer to get a foot in the door of the property market at a much lower price than a brand new larger house in a newly developed area.
“Many of these properties are located in suburbs close to the CBD.
“The first time buyer could potentially build capital with future improvements.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-north+toowoomba-124983914" target="_blank">149 Jellicoe Street</a>, North Toowoomba (above) has been listed for $239,000.
Similarly 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 (below) has been listed for over $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/2017/03/15/10%20Raff%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Oversupply increasing affordability for Toowoomba first home buyers: HTW

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The northern suburbs of Melbourne are providing a number of options for typical first time buyers, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says options within the inner north are normally confined to apartment complexes and multi-unit developments where the median unit price (December 2016) is $505,000 and $638,000 across Brunswick and Brunswick West respectively.
For a more expansive property, the median house price for two bedroom dwellings within these same areas increases significantly to $870,000 and $935,000.
HTW suggests that more affordable locations lie further north where the median house price drops considerably with three bedroom houses in Epping and Craigieburn in the region of $453,000 and $390,000.
“Developments within the outer northern suburbs of Melbourne are attempting to create affordable product targeting first time buyers,” the firms says.
“This product typically comprises smaller lot sizes in secondary areas. Affordability is a real issue facing first time buyers.
“The First Home Owners Grant currently applies to new builds only which is something first home buyers should be taking advantage of along with the stamp duty reductions available.
“With the high number of new properties being created through the development of land tracts throughout the north of Melbourne, first home buyers should look towards underlying property fundamentals such as location and amenity as value drivers.”
Access to public transport and proximity to schools are likely to be drivers of long-term growth in these areas, the report says.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-brunswick-124910886" target="_blank">1318/182 Edward Street</a>, Brunswick (above) has been listed for $599,000.
Similarly a two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-brunswick+west-124874810" target="_blank">7/138 Melville Road</a>, Brunswick West (below) has been listed for between $520,000 to $570,000.
<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/2017/03/10/7_138%20Melville%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Epping and Craigieburn good first home buyer targets in Melbourne's north: HTW

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Ballarat is attracting large volumes of buyers across all brackets due to its relative affordability and easy commute into Melbourne CBD, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says inner suburbs such as Golden Point, Redan and Ballarat East provide low price points with period housing and are ripe for gentrification.
“These areas provide a good investment opportunity with good capital growth expected due to the high demand for good quality period style housing and proximity to the city centre,” the report  says.
“Young families are being drawn to the appeal of new houses in affordable locations such as Lucas, Delacombe and Winter Valley.”
HTW says that vacant land in these areas is in plentiful supply and building a new house provides an affordable option with lifestyle for young families.
But it warns that the capital growth in these areas is likely to be slow with a continuing supply of vacant land coming to the market.
“In terms of affordability for investors, Wendouree and Sebastopol provide high rental returns and a stable source of income.
“These areas are unlikely to experience large capital growth, however pockets of Wendouree are currently showing strong growth around Ballarat Grammar and Stockland Wendouree.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-ballarat+north-124977438" target="_blank">5 Rumler Court,</a> Ballarat North (above) has been listed for between $370,000 to $390,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-ballarat+north-124977334" target="_blank">22/326 Walker Street</a>, Ballarat North (below) has been listed for between $199,000 to $209,000.
<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/2017/03/15/22_326%20Walker%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Ballarat buys attractive for Melbourne commuters: HTW

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Brisbane’s western corridor through to Ipswich offers some of the region’s lowest entry-level price points, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says access to facilities and transport options to the CBD make the area an enticing proposition for first home buyer.
“Check out the suburb of Camira for some of those cheaper, larger blocks,” the report says.
“Springfield and Springfield Lakes are popular suburbs for first home buyers where there is affordability and proximity to both great public infrastructure and transport.”
A brand new or near new home is often the preferred option for many buyers’ first foray into residential, but HTW suggests that first timers should consider other options too.
“If you do choose second hand, it’s possible to get a three-bed, two-bath, one-car car dwelling on a small allotment at Springfield Lakes from $330,000 to $380,000,” it says.
“There’s also the option to buy a townhouses or unit, although these historically don’t achieve the same capital growth as houses.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-springfield+lakes-124702170" target="_blank">8 Prospero Circuit</a>, Springfield Lakes (above) has been listed for $389,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-springfield+lakes-124843694" target="_blank">27 Conventina Crescent</a>, Springfield Lakes (below) has been listed for $469,950.
<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/2017/03/15/27%20Coventina%20Crescent.jpg" alt="">
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Springfield Lakes an affordable option for first home buyers

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In the Clarence Valley there are opportunities for first home buyers to purchase a property that is ripe for renovation, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says there is a range of townhouses available below $400,000 in Yamba and in Maclean, where less than 30% of recent recorded sales were over $400,000.
“Residential development in Townsend is creating an appealing product marketed to first home buyers,” it says.
“This locality has both vacant land and house and land packages available for less than $500,000.”
HTW suggests these areas for home buyers:
• Townsend – Suited to first home buyers that are interested in a brand new product. Townsend creates a perfect environment for vacant land as well as land and housing packages - that are available for less than $500,000.
• Maclean – Suited to first home buyers in the market for perhaps an older product, holding the potential/opportunity for renovation
• Yamba – Suited to first home buyers that are in the market specifically for townhouses/ units. This area provides the most opportunity/widest range of different units for sale.
“Often a premium is paid for brand new product and this may not always be recouped at the time of the next sale if the market has not continued to benefit from capital gains,” HTW says.
“However, there are no overwhelming dangers for these buyers given current market conditions.
“The biggest mistakes that you see first time buyers making in this area is that it is possible that they may overcommit or forget the illiquid nature of property as an asset.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-maclean-124709222" target="_blank">57 Woodford Street</a>, Maclean (above) has been listed for $315,000.
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-townsend-124631734" target="_blank">32 Jubilee Street</a>, Townsend (below) has been listed for $227,500.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/03/09/32%20Jubilee%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Townsend, Yamba and Maclean affordable options for first time buyers: HTW

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Brisbane has plenty to offer entry-level investors within a reasonable distance from the CBD, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says suburbs such as St Lucia or New Farm may be out of reach for first home buyers but addresses such as Runcorn, Calamvale, Drewvale, Doolandella, Salisbury, Coopers Plains, Heathwood and Forest Lake are much more obtainable.
However, the firm warns that while first time buyers are competing with investors in these locations, they still stand a great chance of finding their first home in these areas.
HTW says that older detached homes below $600,000 (which is the typical Brisbane median house price) are worth considering.
“Target something that’s had some wear and tear but still includes that key property component of location,” the report suggests.
“Nearby services and facilities are major factors in price growth.
“You can renovate the improvements, but you can’t relocate the real estate.” 
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-runcorn-124806998" target="_blank">1 Adamson Way</a>, Runcorn (above) has been listed for over $600,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-drewvale-124849746" target="_blank">11 Linaria Circuit</a>, Drewvale (below) has been listed for over $699,000.
<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/2017/03/15/11%20Linaria%20Circuit.jpg" alt="">
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Runcorn, Calamvale and Drewvale top first home buyer targets: HTW 

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The relative affordability of housing in Mildura is one of the region’s main attractions for first home buyers, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says despite it being much cheaper to buy a home in Mildura than in any of the mainland capital cities, first home buyers still face the challenge of saving a decent deposit.
HTW says first home buyers must decide whether they are prepared to buy an older home and then complete some upgrading or set their sights higher and buy a new home.
“Traditionally, first home buyers would start with a basic, older house and then trade their way into a newer home,” the report says.
“In the past 10 years we have seen an increasing number of first home buyers electing to stretch themselves into a new home.
“This trend reflects greater aspirations and has been assisted by low interest rates.”
In reaction to this demand, developers have reduced the average size of lots in new subdivisions in order to keep price options below $100,000.
Despite this, HTW says that the cost of buying a new home is still going to be around $350,000 - beyond the reach of many first home buyers.
“For buyers looking at cheaper options, we would suggest looking at either an older house in an inner city location or a 1980s brick veneer on a good sized lot,” the firm says.
“These types of dwelling can be purchased for around $250,000 and can be upgraded once funds allow.
“They are also going to be in more central locations than some of the current subdivisions.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mildura-124171498" target="_blank">685 Walnut Avenue</a>, Mildura (above) has been listed for between $340,000 to $370,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mildura-123377662" target="_blank">3 Mayan Court</a>, Mildura (below) has been listed for between $359,000 to $385,000.
<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/2017/03/10/3%20Mayan%20Court.jpg" alt="">
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Mildura developers cutting lot sizes to meet first home buyer demand: HTW

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Within the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne, typical options for first time buyers under $500,000 would tend to be restricted to apartments and single storey units constructed in the 1960s and 1970s, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
However, the valuation firm says options exist further east in suburbs such as Wandin North and Seville.
HTW says a common strategy is to purchase a small two bedroom unit and rent one of the bedrooms to cover the mortgage costs.
Developments within the suburbs of Croydon, Ringwood, Wantirna and Ferntree Gully, where the average resale price of one bedroom apartments is between $310,000 and $375,000, are also affordable option for first time buyers, the report says.
“It would be wise for first time home buyers to do their sums before purchasing an apartment due to the fact that body corporate fees can often be a significant additional monthly outlay in addition to the mortgage payments.
“Older units within the outer eastern suburbs are also a good option as the body corporate fees tend to be lower and the accommodation tends to be larger than the newer apartments with a better scope to renovate or change the property.
“Low rise apartments within Ringwood are a property type that first home buyers should consider.”
Eastland shopping centre, transport links and ongoing development are key drawcards for the area, HTW says.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-wandin+north-124560762" target="_blank">1-5 Wanda Avenue</a>, Wandin North (above) was recently sold for $680,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-wandin+north-124314650" target="_blank">15 Sirocco Court</a>, Wandin North (below) was sold for $600,000.
<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/2017/03/10/15%20Sirocco%20Court.jpg" alt="">
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