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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

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

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

<html><body>
Around three quarters of all residential sales in Bathurst are between $300,000 and $500,000, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm noted a correlation between the sale price and the average income in the area.
It advised the majority of home owners are able to service mortgages at these prices.
The size to which dwellings can be built is determined by this limitation in relation to the cost of construction.
In this bracket properties range from slightly dated 60 year old three bedroom, one bathroom dwellings to modern brick veneer four bedroom dwellings with an en suite.
At $500,000 such a dwelling could comprise over 200 square metres of living area alone.
An example would be a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bathurst-123592886" target="_blank">6 McLean Street</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $519,000.
HTW noted a new limitation is then reached in that there is a point when a dwelling can be too large for practical purposes.
"That corresponds with why the majority of properties at $600,000 or more comprise small acreage," the report said.
At the moment anything under $300,000 is being snapped up as soon as it is available. The reason that there are not as many sales in this price bracket is because fewer become available. Although new dwellings continue to comprise a large percentage of sales, this is influenced by the lack of listings that are currently becoming available in established areas.
"This would also skew the areas of higher activity, but not necessarily the level of change in value," the HTW report said.
"This is further influenced by the personal circumstances of purchasers determining the time frame available to allow location to be as important a determinant as the need for accommodation."
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Property supply lacking as demands increase in Bathurst: HTW

<html><body>
The lower end of Western Australia's south west property market has experienced reduced sales volume and a weakening of values, according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White (HTW).
First home buyers and investors generally make up the buyer profile for the lower end of the market.
"The market is driven relatively equally by both (of these buyer demographics)," the HTW report stated.
"First home buyers have been stimulated by government rebates, low interest rates and property values in general being the lowest they have been for numerous years.
"These positive indicators have resulted in first home buyers returning to the market."
Competition for the lower market segment is brought by investors who are looking to capitalise on historically stronger rental market that has seen an increase in yields.
Higher yields and low interest rates create a good market for investors and this has strengthened property values.
The report said entry points into the lower end of the market range from $250,000 to $400,000 and for this amount you can purchase either a basic established residence or build a project home in one of the outlying new developments.
These established homes are in general located within closer proximity to the beach than the new developments. Established homes generally offer better capital growth potential, while the new housing market offers better yields, HTW suggested.
The middle segment of the market is also weakening as there are fewer vendors from the lower market looking to trade up. There is still good demand for well presented and well located properties within this $500,000 to $1 million price range.
"As the market is currently soft in the south west it presents opportunity to upgrade the residence as value for money is very good," said HTW.
The buyer profile usually consists of second and third time home owners or investors from Perth looking for a holiday home.
"Unfortunately, the upper end of the market is considerably slower than the lower and middle market segments," the report suggested. 
"Properties in and above $1 million are selling if they are priced correctly, however extended selling periods of six to 12 months are still common.
"This is a reflection of the limited number of prospective purchasers in this price bracket."
Sale numbers in the prestige market over recent months have reduced, especially with job losses in the mining sector. This has put pressure on the prestige property market as high income earners are taking considerable reductions in wages as they relocate.
HTW noted the south west is considered to be a premium holiday destination given its pristine beaches, surf and world renowned wine region.
Prestigious properties scattered throughout the south west, such as Naturaliste, Eagle Bay, Metricup and Yallingup are still recording sale prices regularly in excess of $1 million.
"There is still demand from the wealthy to invest and holiday in the region," stated the report.
"Overall, it is likely the property market in the south west for the remainder of 2016 will be slow.
"The swings of the Perth market during the last several years have been missed in the regions but we would recommend caution as the slow down in the state resource sector, continued weakness in Perth and general economic uncertainty could promote more of a widespread downturn throughout the market."
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Bottom end of south west WA market on the move: HTW

<html><body>
Within the greater Hobart region, the most favoured price point among buyers at present is within the $300,000 to $400,000 range.
The majority of these sales come from the middle Hobart suburbs, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that home buyers at this price point in these mid suburbs include up-graders and downsizers along with some investors.
The majority of recent sales and listings within this price bracket came from Howrah, Kingston, Lutana and Moonah, all of which are within a 15 kilometre radius of Hobart’s centre.
"Within this price range in Howrah you would typically be able to purchase a smaller sized, approximately 125 square metres of living area, modern home or a larger (from 175 square metres) older style home," the report said.
"In Kingston, to the south west of Hobart and the most rapidly growing area within the greater Hobart region, you can expect to pick up an older style home offering 140 to 180 square metres of living area for between $350,000 and $400,000.
"For those who prefer unit living, in Kingston for between $300,000 and $350,000, a two to three bedroom unit with a living area of around 100 to 130 square metres can be purchased within one of the newer subdivisions."
The $300,000 to $400,000 range is mostly favoured throughout Moonah and Lutana due to the attractive rental return for investors.
Typically an older style, three or four bedroom home in original condition can be purchased at around $350,000 and could be expected to achieve a gross yield between 4.5% to 6%.
One example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-moonah-123751390" target="_blank">4 Clifford Street</a> (pictured above) that has been for sale for $335,000.
In the north of the state the most favoured price point among buyers appears to be within the $250,000 to $350,000 price range. South Launceston, West Launceston, Newstead and Invermay have recorded multiple sales within the past few months in this price range.
An older style, renovated home offering between 100 and 150 square metres of living area in west or south Launceston can be picked up within this $250,000 to $350,000 bracket. For the same price range in Newstead you can get an older style home in original condition with a living area ranging between 120 and 180 square metres. All of these suburbs are within two to four kilometres of Launceston’s centre.
The north and north-west of the state have a similar demographic of purchasers within their respective favoured buyer price points. Second home buyers appear to be in the majority and are either upsizing or downsizing.
North-west Tasmania is seeing a favoured price point within the $200,000 to $300,000 range. Devonport, East Devonport, Sheffield and Port Sorell have had a relatively stronger presence for both sales and listings.
Recently in Devonport and East Devonport purchases of modern or renovated homes that offer 125 to 200 square metres of living area have been made within this price bracket.
Both the north and north-west of the state paint a similar picture for investors as that of the south with gross yields of between 5% to 6% being achieved.
Throughout Tasmania the slowest price point appears to be within the $100,000 to $170,000 range.
The majority of properties within this range in the south can be found in Clarendon Vale, Bridgewater, and Gagebrook all of which are within approximately 30 kilometres or a 30 minute commute to the Hobart CBD, the report said.
These properties are mostly single level, brick veneer, three bedroom, one bathroom houses ranging from 90 to 120 square metres of living area and were previously state housing.
Buyers within this range are often investors looking for a strong rental return with rents ranging between $200 and $300 per week. Many of these homes require repairs prior to being made available for rent.
"Due to required repairs these homes generally have extended selling periods and do not appear to be in strong demand," HTW advised.
"Rocherlea and Waverley are suburbs in the north where similar types of properties are available for purchase but demand is likewise limited.
"While these suburbs offer low barriers of entry and good gross yields for investors their potential for future capital growth should also be considered,\."
</body></html>

Attractive rental returns draw Tasmanian investors to Moonah and Lutana: HTW 

<html><body>
The residential property market in the Illawarra has gone from strength to strength since 2013 with no particular price point or location being left out, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm said that all purchaser types have been affected, from first home buyers, investors focused on returns to prestige buyers. Demand from buyers has shifted south from Sydney into the Illawarra and even the Shoalhaven has come out of a long market slump.
PriceFinder reports that the most active price ranges for house sales in the Illawarra during the 2016 financial year vary for the different Local Government Authorities. The highest volume of house sales in the Wollongong LGA was 420 sales in the $600,000 to $700,000 range. One example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-wollongong-122458686" target="_blank">96 Rowland Avenue</a> (pictured above) that was recently sold for $620,000.
The most house sales in the Shellharbour LGA was between $400,000 and $500,000 with 292 sales.
Kiama’s LGA has the highest range with 68 sales in the $700,000 to $800,000 range while the Shoalhaven LGA has the lowest with 756 house sales between $300,000 and $400,000.
Affordability and availability is the key to the most favoured price points. When a property is deemed affordable it has the broadest market including first home buyers and mum and dad investors. The more common types of property will also become available to the market more often, leading to higher volumes.
The least amount of activity in the Illawarra is, not surprisingly, the prestige market. While this market has been relatively strong over the past three years, there is still a limited amount of activity, mainly due to a limited amount of supply of this property type to the market.
Prestige properties in the Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama LGAs tend to be in the $2 million plus price bracket while this drops to $1.5 million in the Shoalhaven LGA and is limited to beach front or large acreage style properties.
</body></html>

Illawarra property market strength continues to shine: HTW

<html><body>
Over 2016, the residential property market in Newcastle and the Hunter has exhibited mixed performance throughout the different areas of Newcastle, Hunter, the Upper Hunter and Port Stephens, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that these locations are in substantially different stages of the property cycle, which could be described as two speed.
Upsizers are the dominant force in the marker, this being the 30 to 40 year age group with not enough room in the current home to accommodate new additions to the family.
The report said Singleton is still experiencing declining prices with little to no positive change expected in the near future.
"There are very little to no investors prepared to lose money, nor could they easily obtain finance if they wanted to," the report said.
Agents have commented that purchasing in the area is limited to a needs only basis with their vendors accepting losses.
Purchasers are upsizing at a discounted price point due to the oversupply of property within the market. The price point for a typical four bedroom, two bathroom home ranges between $400,000 and $500,000. An example would be a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-singleton-123245166" target="_blank">19 Benjamin Circuit</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $459,700. It came on for sale in August at $480,000.
Suburbs surrounding Maitland, including Chisholm, Thornton, Gillieston Heights and Clifftleigh, are experiencing a substantial increase of new residential housing development. This market is seeing a combination of investors competing with first home buyers who can still obtain their grants for newly built residences.
On average a typical newly built four bedroom, two bathroom property would be within a price point of between $500,000 and $600,000.
Herron Todd White notes that Port Stephens leans more towards a specific investor profile.
"Port Stephens, with higher rates of investors and holiday accommodation, is also experiencing high demand for land for new residential development. Agents have stated that purchasers are looking for properties that can be knocked down due to the limited amount of new land available."
The price point which is most favoured within the Newcastle patch is the 30 to 40 age group of second home buyers and upsizers. This demographic is purchasing their next home within the price point of approximately $500,000 to $700,000 which will purchase the extra bedroom and second bathroom within the desirable 20 minutes of the Newcastle CBD.
Specifically it is the well performing suburbs of Hamilton, Mayfield, Lambton, Adamstown and Charlestown where capital growth for 2016 is between 5.3% and 10.5%.
There is a combination of factors as to why this price point and demographic is the most active, which also goes hand in hand with why the Newcastle property market is at peak levels. Investors are continuing to experience difficulty entering the market due to lending restrictions, even though there is confidence in property growth.
First home buyers are having very little success securing a property as the lower end of the market is also in high demand from the same 30 to 40 years age group of buyers who have the skills and experience to extend and renovate.
</body></html>

Mixed price performances in Hunter, with Singleton still in decline: HTW

<html><body>
This year has been a strong period for the ACT property market with most Canberra suburbs recording a median price growth, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that active sections of the market include standard housing at the entry level price points in some Canberra fringe and outer suburban locations.
Generally purchasers are looking for large blocks within established suburbs that provide access to good education and employment services.
Entry level price point for this style of housing ranges between $450,000 and $550,000. Most homes within this section of the market provide three and four bedroom accommodation, generally built circa 1975 and in many cases are ready for some renovation and upgrading. An example would be a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-queanbeyan-122913366" target="_blank">34 Brereton Street</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $549,000.
Inner suburban locations in Canberra’s north and south set a higher price point at generally $1 million plus. This section of the market is also relatively buoyant with families looking to move up the property ladder with their second or third purchases.
Again block size, location and proximity to schools and other services are the main drivers. This section of the market ranges from $1 million to around $2.5 million. Market activity for property in the $3 million plus price point is slower, although transactions have still been recorded at the higher levels throughout 2016.
Herron Todd White noted that property prices in medium density areas is impacted by strong supplies.
"Price points in the medium density market range from $250,000 to $300,00 for a one bedroom unit recently constructed in a fringe Town Centre location, to $400,000 to $500,000 for a centrally located unit in Canberra’s inner north or inner south," said the report. "Both investors and owner occupiers are active, however strong supply within the medium density market has had an impact on activity."
With similar results expected for next year, this year’s hottest suburbs include entry level areas on the fringe of the ACT right through to prestige suburbs in Canberra’s inner south.
Domain senior economist Andrew Wilson says that pinpointing the strongest suburbs is trickier in Canberra than it is in other cities.
The nation’s capital is home to a compressed market, with a higher entry point in affordable suburbs and a lower entry point in prestige suburbs, when compared to Sydney and Melbourne, Dr Wilson says.
“When the market rises, it rises as a whole. Most suburbs will record price growth in 2016.”
</body></html>

Property market in Canberra strong with suburbs recording median price growth: HTW

<html><body>
Glen Waverley has experienced a considerable slowdown in comparison to this same time 12 months ago, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that this was expected as rapid growth rates were not sustainable and the change in foreign investment rules reduced the number of competing buyers in the market.
"Although those properties located within prestigious school zones are still achieving high market sale prices due to modest competition between local and overseas buyers, it is those secondary properties located outside the school zones which tend to be the slowest," the report noted.
Within Wantirna South, the most favoured price point tends to be between $750,000 and $950,000. For this, buyers can expect to purchase a partially renovated or updated three to four bedroom, two bathroom house on a 600 to 800 square metre block of land. There's also three bedroom house and land package at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-wantirna+south-123796566?listingType=buy" target="_blank">Lot 334 Harcrest Boulevard </a>(pictured above) that is for sale for $758,930.
This particular price point tends to be favoured by more established families and investors, both groups with a heavy Asian influence. Many buyers are attracted to the area because of the high performing schools and proximity to local amenities.
The report noted that outer east suburbs such as Healesville, Upwey and Tecoma tend to be favoured by young families and first time buyers due to the more prominent sale prices of between $500,000 and $550,000.
Herron Todd White noted that these kinds of properties, although large, tend to be in need of renovations due to their old original condition.
"These properties, although generally quite large, tend to be in their original condition and in need of updating," the report said. "Interestingly however, weatherboard properties tend to fetch a premium in comparison to their brick veneer counterparts, with purchasers favouring this style."
Herron Todd White observed that properties in Croydon that are up to five years old are preferred by buyers.
"With the increasing number of subdivisions occurring or which have occurred within recent years, properties in Croydon which are either new or up to five years old tend to be preferred by purchasers. Similar to other suburbs, families are the predominant purchasers, however retirees looking for a home which requires minimal maintenance and upkeep are also favouring these new units.
"Furthermore the suburb is considered as more leafy than its neighbours which again suits both sets of purchasers."
The price point in Croydon most favoured tends to be between $650,000 and $720,000 and for this buyers can expect to secure a three bedroom, two bathroom townhouse with approximately 150 square metres of living.
In contrast the $1 million to $1.2 million range is perhaps the slowest. The number of properties in Croydon which sit within this price range is limited and those which do come onto the market can take some time to sell, the report said.
HTW suggested buyers of such properties tend to be local residents looking to upgrade to a larger home, however, similar to the outer eastern suburbs, at this price point weatherboards are favoured and tend to sell much faster.
The $1 million plus price seems to be the key pulling factor preventing more sales from proceeding. Purchasers at this price range also have neighbouring suburbs such as Ringwood and Ringwood East to consider, both of which are closer to the Melbourne CBD and benefit from their proximity to newly refurbished local amenities.
Relatively affordable homes (roughly $400,000) in the newer estates in Melbourne's south east are in hot demand.
"This demand typically comes from first home buyers, investors and downsizers," the report said.
"For this price, a new or recently built three or four bedroom home can be purchased depending on the quality of finish.
"Many agents are reporting that their biggest problem at the moment is finding new listings.
"Once they have the listing, the house practically sells itself. According to one agent in Officer, an existing home recently sold within three hours of it being listed on the market."
HTW noted there are still rural lifestyle properties located in parts of Officer that haven’t been overtaken by new estates and some of these sales fetch over $1 million.
However these properties are not in high demand and take far longer to sell.
Buyers in this market commonly represent older couples and families looking for a location further from the city.
Herron Todd White advised that properties the lifestyle market was slow by contrast: "Representing not necessarily a dead market, but a market not as active as that mentioned earlier. It can be assumed that this is a result of the higher price point and a product that’s not in as much demand as those in the estates."
</body></html>

Glen Waverley in considerable slowdown: HTW

<html><body>
Investors in Morwell can pick up a miner’s cottage in the vicinity of $130,000 and rent for around $210 per week reflecting an 8 percent yield, according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market report.
Miners cottages are very common throughout Morwell, Moe and parts of Traralgon. These are generic 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom, timber weatherboard dwellings which seem to be popular with investors.
There is such <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-morwell-123584550">an offering at $129,000</a> currently.
The property advisory firm says that Gippsland has the option of the brick veneer, described as an iconic family home and generally structurally sound, but built in the good old days with hardwood frames and flooring.
Entry level at the median price of around $270,000 for the regional city of Sale would likely see a 3-bedroom brick veneer in original or dated condition.
A renovated California Bungalow in a central location will likely fetch around $500,000.
Classic styles for the Gippsland region include 1970s to 1980s brick veneer or in older areas of towns, circa 1930s California Bungalows.
</body></html>

Gippsland offers 8 percent Morwell investor weatherboards: HTW

<html><body>
There are currently bargains across all price points at Emerald in Queensland, according to Herron Todd White.
They are from the basic neat home built in the 1980s around $140,000 through to executive homes built in the 1990s selling at around $250,000 up to acreage selling in the range of $400,000 to $550,000.
The acreage had held firm the longest but in the past 12 months we have seen it come back significantly in line with the fall in single dwelling properties in town, the valuation firm advised this month.
"The market is currently in a position where you can get much more with a lot less money than you could four years ago.
"If you’re a first home buyer or have a deposit and ready to go, now is the cheapest time to buy in the past 11 years," it suggested.
Emerald has gone through four major building and construction booms over the past fifty years.
There was a major construction phase in the 1960s to 1970s of railway homes, housing commission and blue collar workers’ accommodation.
"These are now selling near the bottom of the market in the $120,000 to $160,000 range," according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market report. 
The property advisory firm says that then there was the opening up of many coal mines in the Bowen Basin region in the late 1970s when mining companies built many homes in town from 1978 to 1994 of very similar design and style. 
These are now selling mostly in the $160,000 to $220,000 range.
"We then saw a large expansion of the town by private developers and our own council in the 1990s with many owner-occupier and custom built homes of the highest quality the town had ever seen.
"These were your large executive style homes along with a great expansion in the rural residential market.
"This created some prestige estates which still hold a premium today. 
"Then we saw the last boom from 2004 to 2012 which was the largest the town had experienced with many single dwellings and unit complexes being constructed.
"Some of these large, modern homes under ten years of age with pool, shed and located in good estates are holding at the top of the market in a range of $450,000 to $550,000, back from the peak of $700,000." 
</body></html>

Queensland's Emerald offers residential bargains: HTW

<html><body>
Any local will tell you that Gladstone has always been a boom and bust town, according to Herron Todd White.
Investment in the town soars when a new project begins as demonstrated over the past 50 years, the valuation firm advised.
"This is always followed by a bust during which the town re-gathers itself and gets back to normal.
"Presently we are in the fourth year of Gladstone’s latest downward cycle.
"Established housing has declined as much as 50% and units as much as 80% from values achieved in the peak of the market."
It advised in its September report the vacancy rate peaked in the first quarter of 2016 at just over 10% and has been steadily falling since.
"It may indicate we have seen the worst of this bust.
"Only time will tell," HTW advised.
The traditional property types in Gladstone have all been established on the back of major booms in the industrial sector, according to Herron Todd White's latest monthly market indicator.
The property advisory firm says that prior to the 1960s Gladstone remained a relatively small port city serving the local cattle industry.
In 1963 Queensland Alumina Refinery (QAL) was announced, beginning over a decade long boom during which Gladstone’s population doubled.
The first, second and third stages of the refinery were built along with the first stage of the Gladstone Power Station.
Most of Gladstone’s central suburbs including South and West Gladstone and Barney Point were well established.
Homes in these suburbs are popular in today’s market given their close proximity to the CBD and the varying views available from the low and high set style homes. These suburbs also offer good opportunities to renovate older style homes in central locations.
The entry level price point for homes in West Gladstone and South Gladstone is around $200,000 in the current market.
The early 1980s saw the next wave of industrial development with the commencement of the Boyne Aluminium Smelter. Much of the established parts of Boyne Island and adjoining Tannum Sands were developed during this time. Construction ranged between on ground and high set homes.
Price points for this style of housing in Boyne Island and Tannum Sands ranges between $300,000 and $350,000 in the current market. Gladstone suburbs such as Kin Kora, Sun Valley and parts of Clinton and New Auckland were also established during this time. Kin Kora and Sun Valley comprise mostly high set homes and are popular well established suburbs in today’s market. Prices in these suburbs range typically between $250,000 and $350,000.
In the 1990s the coal industry boomed giving Gladstone another boom in property prices and demand. New housing estates in Clinton, New Auckland, Glen Eden and Telina were developed comprising mostly 3-bedroom on ground brick houses. New Auckland and Clinton were further established in the early 2000s when Rio Tinto announced the Yarwun Alumina Refinery was to proceed.
The most recent construction boom (2010 to 2012) commenced when construction started on three LNG plants being built on Curtis Island off the coast of Gladstone.
This boom saw fringe suburbs including Glen Eden, New Auckland and Kirkwood being extensively developed with modern housing.
It noted a transformation also occurred in Gladstone City with multiple high rise apartment buildings going up in the CBD and extensive townhouse developments taking place in the suburbs. Over 1,000 units have been built in the past five years alone.
</body></html>

Htw

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Htw