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 weather patterns over the past four weeks have been breaking records for all the wrong reasons, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that the dry and hot conditions have been felt right across southern Queensland.
In far western Queensland, Thargomindah broke the hottest day record for February at 47 degrees whilst it was also the hottest day and number of consecutive days reaching over 40 degrees on the Border River and Darling Downs areas.
“What the present weather conditions are doing we believe is stalling some of the renewed market confidence,” the report commented.
Growers and cattle producers are very cautious on the current weather outlook especially within the less traditionally secure rainfall areas but also because of the recent extended dry seasonal conditions.
The exceptional heat has dried off pastures, reduced surface water for stock needs and impacted summer crops, especially down grading or loss of mung bean crops.
Every shire west of the Great Divide in southern Queensland is drought declared with many being so since 2013 (fourth year).
Obviously seasons have always been a major deciding factor on profitability for the majority of agriculture enterprises.
Despite dry seasonal conditions being not necessarily uncommon, the extended dry periods and less than ideal long range forecasts may be of concern for producers wanting to expand but budgeting on improvement in the season which hasn’t eventuated.
What is the likelihood of stacking together exceptional cattle prices and wet seasonal conditions anyhow?
If anything, the present dry conditions are giving over anxious purchasers a reality check and possibly softening the aggressive purchasing by some parties as observed.
One of the drivers in the property market for both cropping and grazing country is landholders looking to acquire adjoining or near neighbouring properties.
“We are seeing premiums between 10% and 25% paid where strong competition exists. We have seen this trend occur within the Inner Downs, Goondiwindi, Condamine and Taroom market areas,” the report stated.
Subject to the potential demand for a neighbouring property some landholders are trying to negotiate a deal prior to being listed on the market.
However in markets primarily driven purely by local investors it can be difficult to determine the actual premium for those seeking economies of scale although there is evidence of a disconnect in comparison to other neighbouring areas.
The overall market has been slow for the beginning of 2017, however many properties previously listed for extended periods are now either generating increased buyer interest or are under contract.
For the southern part of Queensland there has been an increase in sale rates that has continued since 2014.
For 2016 the liquidity of the market has levelled despite data-set lagging indicating the decline.
In addition the median sales price has also firmed as evident in the sales graph below.
A 481 hectare cropping land at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-cropping-qld-goondiwindi-7881290" target="_blank">Lot 46 Tenomby</a>, Goondiwindi (above) has been listed for $980,000.
Similarly the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-qld-condamine-7791554" target="_blank">Tolmah Homestead</a> at Condamine has been listed for $750,000.
<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/2017/03/06/Condamine.jpg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Weather patterns stalling South Queensland's rural market confidence: HTW

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The property market for large scale horticultural enterprises in the Sunraysia region has shifted dramatically over recent years, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that in the period from 2007 to 2014, properties would be advertised extensively and selling periods would often extend over 12 months.
In the past year or so, there have been numerous examples of owners of large properties receiving unsolicited approaches from corporate buyers (or their brokers) wishing to buy their property.
“We are regularly being asked by owners of these properties for advice on what they should do.
Additionally we are consistently receiving requests from agents for help in identifying the ownership of or suitable properties which may fit their investment strategies,” the report stated.
Corporate buyers appear most motivated to buy properties which have scope to complete further development, reinforcing their belief that the current good returns from industries such as table grapes, citrus and almonds will be maintained for some time to come.
“As we reported in the February edition there were three sales of substantial table grape enterprises in the latter half of 2016, with the buyers being two separate international investment funds and a recently listed Australian agribusiness company.
The strong demand appears to have continued into the early part of 2017, noting that we are aware of negotiations for the purchase of a number of properties,” the report stated.
There are also currently a number of companies either overtly or covertly scoping out suitable properties to develop large scale, flat plate solar farms.
It is not clear at this stage whether any of these proponents will end up buying and developing the properties for this use, however there appears to be some current momentum for this to happen.
The first of such proponents, Overland Sun Farming, recently launched its $500 million plans to build three large scale solar farms at Yatpool, Iraak and Wemen (all south of Mildura) commencing in June 2017.
It is expected that the total combined output will be 320 megawatts which is enough to power all households in Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo.
Whilst previous proposed projects have failed to materialise in the region the current operators reportedly have the funding and contractual arrangements in place to ensure these projects will be built and operational by early 2018.
Whilst traditionally sale activity in the cropping and pastoral sectors in the December to February time frame is generally low Herron Todd White notes that there has been some good sales activity.
Thurla Farms at Redcliff (above) has been <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-horticulture-vic-mildura-7693771" target="_blank">listed for sale</a>.
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Horticultural sales markets in Mildura hasten dramatically: HTW

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Units in Brisbane are in a declining market according to the March property clock from Herron Todd White, with apartments in Canberra, Townsville and the Whitsundays at the bottom of the market.
Melbourne, the New South Wales Central Coast, Gold Coast and Newcastle are at market peak.
Apartments in Brisbane began to decline last month.
According to Herron Todd White's latest report you don’t need much coin to enjoy Brisbane, but the city does struggle to snag the sort of numbers (both in transactions and values) that Sydney and Melbourne property achieve.
"Among the major cities, Brisbane really is one that has plenty to offer the entry-level investor, but initial steps must include a realistic assessment of your finances and the ability to compromise now, in order to benefit later," HTW said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/5/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-05%20at%201.27.20%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/2017/03/5/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-05%20at%201.27.20%20pm.jpg" alt="">
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"If you’re willing to position yourself a reasonable distance from the CBD, there are a plethora of options for first time buyers and investors.
"It’s all about realising this first purchase won’t necessarily be a home on the hill in St Lucia or penthouse in New Farm.
Target something that’s had some wear and tear but still includes that key property component of location. Nearby services and facilities are major factors in price growth.
"You can renovate the improvements, but you can’t relocate the real estate.
"Locations that are worth considering for first homeowners should include those with a comparably lower median house price.
"Think about addresses such as Runcorn, Calamvale, Drewvale, Doolandella, Salisbury, Coopers Plains, Heathwood and Forest Lake. Look for housing priced at sub-$600,000 (which is the typical Brisbane median house price). Although you are competing with investors in these locations, with enough preparation, you stand a great chance of nding your first home.
"Another area to search is our western corridor through to Ipswich. This patch offers some of our region’s lowest entry-level price points, and with great access to all the facilities you’d expect of a big city. There’s also great transport options if you do need to commute into the capital’s CBD.
Check out the suburb of Camira for some of those cheaper, larger blocks. If new housing is more your bag, then Springfield and Springfield Lakes are popular suburbs for first home buyers where there is affordability and proximity to both great public infrastructure and transport. It’s also kind of nice to be living in a brand new or near new home for your first foray into residential. However 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 Spring eld Lakes from $330,000 to $380,000. There’s also the option to buy a townhouses or unit, although these historically don’t achieve the same capital growth as houses.
"If you’re an entry-level investor looking to be part of Brissie, then you’re probably considering units and townhouses at the moment – but as we’ve been warning for some time now, be careful!
"Off-the-plan investor stock that has limited appeal to owner- occupiers is at oversupply and the potential for capital gain is limited.
"Many investors are also looking at detached homes. We’ve seen a trend towards housing in areas like Sunnybank Hills, Macgregor and Coopers Plains where investors buy highset housing and rent out the lower level separately to increase the return.
"In the western corridor once more, investors like Redbank Plains, Gailes and Collingwood Park. These suburbs have very low price points for established housing and while touts can be modest, rent returns are strong.
"Overall, our advice for first time buyers is to be prepared and look for smart strategies that help you get into the market. Maybe there’s the option of gaining support from the bank of “mum and dad”. Even if they don’t have the ready cash, going guarantor on a loan can be great step up from your folks."
Property Observer found a two bedroom apartment with city views, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-brisbane+city-124760210" target="_blank">193/18 Tank Street</a> on the market for around $500,000 (below).
It last traded for $520,000 at the start of 2016.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-06%20at%2010.25.21%20AM.png" alt="">
 
A two bedroom, two bathroom inner city apartment with one car space, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-brisbane+city-124871846" target="_blank">7026/7 Parkland Boulevard</a> Brisbane City, (below) is on the market for $649,000.
It last sold for $620,000 in 2015.
<h1><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/06/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-06%20at%2010.29.10%20AM.png" alt=""></h1>
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March Brisbane apartment market in decline: HTW property clock

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The level of confidence is always the key to the rural property market in South West Victoria, according to Herron Todd White's latest report.
The property valuation firm says that in general terms the farming sector in south west Victoria apart from dairying commences the new year in positive terms coming off the back of a good last half of 2016.
"We predict continued strong investment in agriculture through 2017, with influencing factors including the following:
<ul>
<li>no indication of an easing of the record market prices for beef and prime lamb.</li>
<li>there is abundant feed in the paddocks and reserves of hay have been replenished.</li>
<li>interest rates to borrow from banks remain cheap.</li>
<li>limited stock of good property being put to the open market for sale.</li>
<li>for large scale grazing holdings domestic purchasers beating off foreign purchasers.</li>
<li>Government policy is favourable to the rural industry." the report listed.</li>
</ul>
The values for rural property are predicted to peak in late 2017.
With specific reference to the dairying sector, there is a small glimmer of hope in the wider dairying industry which should show the start of recovery with current levels unlikely to change through 2017.
The rural market has been stable over the previous few years in Gippsland, however there have been some recent sales in the Bass area.
This indicates that there may be an increased interest in the rural small holding market for properties in the ten hectare to 80 hectare range.
Western Gippsland has seen increased interest in rural small holding lots with the completion of the
Pakenham racecourse appearing to increase demand for horse blocks or grazing properties.
The forecast closure of metropolitan racecourses may also increase demand for these lots.
Overall the rural market in western and southern Gippsland region is seen as stable with the potential for price growth over the next 12 months.
Strong seasonal conditions undoubtedly drove demand through the tail end of 2016 in Echuca.
This is likely to drive demand into 2017 particularly in the cropping sector which achieved significantly above average yields across most district (notwithstanding below average pricing).
One of the quiet performers has also been most classes of water which continues to recover in price notwithstanding a falling allocation market.
This has seen general security water surge to $1,275 per megalitre (including allocation) according to some local agents.
Meanwhile Victorian Goulburn water seems to be hovering around the $2,600 to $2,750 per megalitre mark.
There is a $1.2 million asking price on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-vic-bass-7876186" target="_blank">an 118 acre Bass farm</a> through Elders Leongatha.
The farm, Janista is capable of carrying 60 to 70 breeding cows and calves or could make a fattening or horse property. The private three acre lake is complemented by an additional 4 mega litre pumping license from the Bass River.
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South west Victoria rural property market determined by confidence level: HTW

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There remains a significant portion of Western Australians that have stable employment and are in position for some bargain hunting, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says reduced values through 2015 and 2016 have led to many instances of negative equity, which is likely to be exacerbated as interest rates climb in the second half of the year.
For owners in areas affected by the post-resource boom increase in unemployment rate, 2017 is likely to see a significant increase in mortgagee in possession activity.
But other areas look set to benefit from present conditions.
“We are likely to see some micro bursts of activity in certain areas as these buyers scramble for quality products,” HTW says.
“Areas on the watch list include Willetton, Bull Creek and Rossmoyne in the south and Carine, Duncraig and Karrinyup in the north.
“We also expect an increase in speculative developer and investor activity, reflecting the lack of a premium currently being paid for these sites.
“We expect an increase in activity in Cloverdale, Cannington, St James, and Queens Park in the south-east and Morley and Balga in the north.
“Sellers of established properties in areas such as Clarkson in the north, Baldivis in the south and Seville Grove in the south-east are likely to struggle to attract first home buyers.”
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-perth-124385418" target="_blank">30A Windsor Street</a>, Perth (above) was sold for $552,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-wa-perth-124070950" target="_blank">46/34 East Parade</a>, Perth (below) was sold for $559,000.
<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/2017/02/23/46_34%20East%20Parade.jpg" alt="">
 
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-bicton-124155690" target="_blank">37 Bristol Avenue</a>, Bicton (above) has been listed for $1,149,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-north+fremantle-123544254" target="_blank">10/30 Kwong Alley</a>, North Fremantle (below) has been listed for $775,000.
<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/2017/02/23/10_30%20Kwong%20Alley.jpg" alt="">
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Good conditions for Perth property bargain hunters: HTW

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Bundaberg’s residential market for both houses and units has remained flat with a slight reduction in values over the past 12 months with overall confidence being subdued, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says sales data indicates a contraction in the number of sales making it a buyer’s market at present. The rental vacancy rate has reduced from 6.3% to 4.5%.
“The Bundaberg economy has had a $10 million injection with the Bundaberg Sports and Community Centre and the Rubyanna Wastewater Treatment Plant being built,” the firm says.
“The Knauf Plasterboard manufacturing plant at the port is still under construction.
“As these developments progress, confidence in the market should lift throughout 2017.
“This year with confidence improving, we believe that we are in for some positive movements.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bundaberg+south-124529446" target="_blank">2 Wyper Street</a>, Bundaberg (above) has been listed for sale for $249,000.
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Bundaberg a buyers' market: HTW

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There is a balanced market of units in Hobart, according to Herron Todd White’s latest report.
The property valuation firm says that Hobart has a steady rental vacancy trend with a fair demand for new units.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.22.08%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%2010.22.08%20am.jpg" alt="">
This is supported by a steady trend of units being constructed as well as volume of units being sold.
Hobart’s unit market is rising with new properties almost never sold at prices that exceed their potential resale value.
A unit the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-tas-hobart-122158326" target="_blank">4/166 Bathurst Street</a>, Hobart (above) was sold for $416,000. This is $19,000 below the median price of Hobart units.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-tas-hobart-121867742" target="_blank">7/37-39 Campbell Street</a>, Hobart (below) was sold for $420,000.
<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/2017/02/15/7_37-39%20Campbell%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Balanced unit market in Hobart as demands increase: HTW

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After a reasonably subdued start to 2016, market activity improved in the Esperance region towards the middle of the year and then tapered off for a very quiet close, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says sales over a variety of value ranges were noted, particularly above $1 million which saw sales for the first time in a couple of years.
Values over all price ranges and property types in the broader Esperance townsite have remained reasonably consistent, however, selling periods have lengthened compared to previous years.
Vacant land sales remained stable with supply slowly diminishing.
Values have remained consistent with the preceding year and shown some minor improvement in the localities now seeing a shortage in supply.
HTW predicts much of the same for 2017.
“A number of properties over all price ranges and property types are available for sale however demand is also relatively stable within all markets and sales are occurring, albeit at a slower pace with a reasonable consistency in values,” the report says.
“As with all areas, accurately priced property is attracting sound demand and typical selling periods are still less than six months.”
However, HTW says the market prediction for the smaller centres in the broader Esperance region are more difficult to gauge.
Hopetoun, 200 kilometres west of Esperance, has seen a substantial decline in values over the past five years with a combination of excessive oversupply of land, very low sales volumes and uncertainty of employment in the region all contributing factors.
“The land is slowly beginning to be absorbed and improved residential values at present appear to have stabilised within a typical range of between $220,000 and $320,000,” the firm says.
“Sales volumes are still very low and there is a large amount of property available on the market.
“It is likely if sales volumes do not improve there may still be some downward correction to come as vendors who have had property listed for an extended period become more anxious to quit this market.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-esperance-123499678" target="_blank">43 Crossland Street</a>, Esperance (above) has been listed for $399,000.
Similarly a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-esperance-124370858" target="_blank">40 Hamersley Street</a>, Esperance (below) has been listed for $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/2017/02/23/40%20Hamersley%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Esperance prestige market active again: HTW

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The small mining town of Norseman, 200 kilometres north of Esperance, has had an interesting 2016 and will likely have an interesting 2017, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
Norseman Gold Mine, the main employer in the town, went into a care and maintenance program in June 2014 with most staff laid off and the town largely emptied.
This is on the back of massively declining values since 2012 due largely to uncertainty over the future of the mine.
Since July 2014, however, the volume of property sales in Norseman has been particularly strong, especially noting the overall size of the market, the valuation firm says.
Values are very low with a four bedroom home in a generally good condition likely to sell for less than $50,000 and typical sales for older homes in varying conditions ranging between $20,000 and $40,000.
“It has been suggested Norseman provided the most affordable housing in the country and this could well be correct and be a reason that sales volumes are improving,” HTW says.
“As to whether any capital growth may occur, it is unlikely until the local economy can stabilise with either the current mine re-opening or new publicised mining ventures in the region gaining some momentum.”
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-norseman-124629174" target="_blank">22 Prinsep Street</a>, Norseman (above) has been listed for $199,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-norseman-124629342" target="_blank">26 Roberts Street</a>, Norseman (below) has been listed for $135,000.
<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/2017/02/23/26%20Roberts%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Property values are very low in Norseman: HTW

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There appears to be a lot of trepidation and a lack of consumer confidence in the Perth market, according to HTW’s February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says the softening conditions experienced throughout 2016 are likely to continue throughout 2017.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia, total listings on market currently sit at 14,444 properties, a slight decrease from the same time last year.
Listings on market peaked in March 2016 at 15,200 and have hovered in the low 14,000s since.
Traditionally, a balanced market is considered to be in the order of 12,000 listings, HTW says.
“The median sale price has tracked a very similar course, beginning 2017 at $520,000, being a slight decrease from the $533,000 reported at the same time last year,” the report says.
The rental market begins the year with a 6.6% vacancy rate, up a full percent on the same time last year.
HTW isn’t sure if Perth will hit the bottom of the cycle in 2017 but if it does, it expects it to be late in the year.
“We consider that the worst is over, with small fluctuations likely to occur throughout the year.
“Our prediction would be a median sale price at the end of the year in the order of $510,000.
“Is there good buying in the market place today? Absolutely, but research and local knowledge are the keys.”
The downturn in the Perth market has made it look like an attractive proposition in comparison to the country's other capital cities, HTW says.
“It would also not be an unlikely scenario that the current flurry of activity in Melbourne and Sydney leads to an increased focus on the comparative affordability of Perth,” the report says.  
“It has become extremely attractive in terms of value for money, with the added attraction of its proximity to Asia.
“We expect an oversupply of established housing stock sub $1 million, particularly in the outer suburbs, a significant increase in apartment and off the plan villa transactions sub $500,000 and scattered upgrade and speculative investor activity as the market attempts to pick the bottom of the cycle.”
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-perth-124758606" target="_blank">93/22 St George Terrace</a>, Perth (above) has been listed for between $695,000 to $745,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-perth-124577070" target="_blank">46/250 Beaufort Street</a>, Perth (below) has been listed from $399,000.
<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/2017/02/22/46_250%20Beaufort%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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