Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

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Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

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Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

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ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

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Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

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Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

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Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

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The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

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Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

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Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

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Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

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The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Industrial

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We can anticipate the year ahead to remain stable for the Coffs Harbour industrial and commercial property market in 2020, according to the February 2020 report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The property valuation firm found the commercial market demonstrates firm yields across a broad spectrum of price ranges.
Based on the current low interest rate climate, these conditions should continue throughout 2020.
Whilst there will be limited impact throughout 2020, HTW would anticipate the market will become aware of the beneficial economic impact the construction development phase will bring to the local property market.
HTW valuers said, "industrial property should benefit and the demand for services will increase."
"We would expect that retailing will remain difficult with a continuation of the current market, featuring high vacancy rates and sensitivity with rental levels."
"The Woolgoolga commercial market is expanding with a number of new developments proceeding and this market should continue to strengthen throughout the year," they concluded.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Coffs Harbour industrial market to remain stable in 2020: HTW Industrial

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Brisbane’s industrial property investment market experienced strong growth throughout 2019, with firm yields reflecting the limited availability of quality stock and solid purchaser demand, according to the February report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
They found, whilst demand for quality industrial assets remains extremely strong, particularly for well-located properties with long-term leases and strong lease covenants, secondary properties continue to see long lease up periods and are generally less attractive in the current market. 2019 saw a shift in the Brisbane industrial market with institutional purchasers beginning to focus on areas such as the TradeCoast and along the Logan corridor.
Throughout the latter parts of 2018 and 2019, demand for industrial development sites throughout Brisbane increased substantially with increases in value evident across a number of industrial precincts.
Whilst there are still difficulties in obtaining development finance from financial institutions, this does not seem to have restricted demand in recent times.
Since the federal election in 2019 there has been a slight increase in sales volumes.
The valuers said, "we expect to see this sales activity continue to strengthen throughout 2020 due to the low interest rate environment and lack of supply within the wider Brisbane area."
"Rents continue to stay steady with no dramatic increases, particularly for net effective rentals,as incentives continue to rise. The most active segment of the market will continue to be transport and logistics with tenants gravitating towards modern properties with good access to motorways."
"The total number and value of sales fell in 2016. This was primarily due to a shortfall in supply of quality industrial assets, however sales picked up again in 2017."
"We saw a similar fall in sales in 2018 which carried over to a slower start in 2019. Since the federal election in 2019 there has been an increase in sales volumes."
"It is expected that stronger sales activity will continue throughout 2020 due to the low interest rate environment, however we do note that investors are holding on to well leased, quality assets due to the lower risk profile these properties offer."
"Investment yields for high quality assets continue to trend closer towards 6.00% with an example of a major transaction being 39 Graystone Street, Tingalpa, a well sought after location within the TradeCoast. The property had a 4.57 year lease term and transacted at $17.6 million with an analysied yield of 6.34%."
"2020 will continue to see a high demand for prime industrial properties with money coming from mum and dad investors through to major industrial institutional trusts," they concluded.
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Brisbane industrial market will continue to see strong demand in 2020: HTW Industrial

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Looking at 2020, the general consensus is that the Melbourne industrial market will remain strong, boosted by strong population growth and unprecedented levels of infrastructure investment, according to the February report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The property valuation firm also noted, the global share market is expected to remain volatile with the potential for a US-China trade war, wage growth is expected to remain stagnant, there is a risk of recession and there is uncertainty regarding Britain’s exit from the European Union.
This has led to an even greater appetite for real estate investments, with industrial leading the way when it comes to investing in commercial property. The industrial sector is considered to have the strongest pull for investors, predominantly due to the rise of e-commerce.
In the case of high value industrial assets, yields remain firm due to bidding wars, particularly as there is the guaranteed cash flow of a strong WALE.
HTW reporters said, "we have seen increased interest in industrial assets from onshore and overseas real estate investment trusts and private equity firms. Some of these started out with zero industrial assets and now have these assets making up a substantial portion of their portfolio."
Knight Frank is predicting double digit growth in 2020 on the back of the continued low interest rate environment, which further advances yield compression. Vacancy rates in Melbourne also remain at five year lows.
They said, "Melbourne industrial yields are currently sitting at 5.73%, having significantly tightened through increased investor interest and capital growth is set to rise from 6% to 6.4% in 2020."
According to Savill’s 2020 outlook report, rental rates have been increasing, currently standing at $80 to $90 per square metre. Given the sustained demand at present, this rental growth is expected to continue albeit at a diminishing rate.
Lease incentives have dropped due to the consistently steady demand for industrial space.
Some smaller strata units are selling at rates around $3,000 per square metre, which is new territory for the industrial market.
HTW valuers stated, "buyers and tenants no longer seek just a warehouse to store goods; there are many considerations that factor into their decisions. These include purchasing or leasing premises close to their prime customer bases and employees with appropriate skill sets, whilst being in a prime location in order to limit transport costs and avoid the impact of slow transit times."
"Industrial properties for first time investors are becoming harder to find, however there are still reasonably priced strata developments in which mum and dad investors can purchase a unit and benefit from a strong yield and steady income."
"Industrial properties to avoid include contaminated sites as well as secondary locations, away from major infrastructure and transport routes."
"Investing in properties with long term tenants in declining industries (for example, the printing and newspaper industries) should only be pursued with the knowledge that there is a likely chance of vacancy at the end of the lease, which leads to vacancy costs and associated refit costs to attract new long term tenants," they concluded.
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Melbourne industrial market to see unprecedented infrastructure investment in 2020: HTW Industrial 

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When we look at the industrial market in Newcastle, there are five key precincts to consider in 2020, according to the February 2020 report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The property valuation firm found, the Beresfield precinct continues to grow with 16 hectares of land sold at the end of 2019.
There have been a number of strata and stand alone buildings constructed in this area in the past 12 months and there are a number of buildings in the planning or initial construction phase.
In the Cardiff precinct, the extension of Munibung Road with the expected link to Lake Road at the western end has seen a number of new developments at that locality, with a number of developments recently completed.
Meanwhile in the Steel River precinct in Mayfield West, there have been sales of development land, however the market for established properties has slowed.
HTW valuers said, "we also note the completion and sale of the Myspace development which is targeted at the smaller end of the market, having units with areas less than 100 square metres."
"Thornton is very stable with no significant new developments, however we note that there have been some recent sales in that area."
"Finally, the Tomago precinct, which is more suited to heavy industrial, is starting to show some signs of activity after a relatively stagnant period."
"Overall, the key issue facing the local market is the demand for quality industrial properties outstripping supply. Moreover, decreases in lending rates have the potential to lead to an increase in investor activity, however there have been very few sales to investors recently."
"We are seeing more owner-occupier sales in recent months indicating that the reduction in the cash rate is having the effect of stimulating the market," they concluded.
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Newcastle industrial market sees supply picking up in 2020: HTW Industrial

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The industrial sector has been the best performing real estate asset class in the region over the past two years and we expect this performance to continue throughout 2020, according to the February 2020 report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
The property valuation firm found that the main risk in this sector will be one of overheating.
Most of the activity in the industrial market is being driven by the Port of Port Kembla with logistics a rapidly developing sector particularly in new vehicle transportation.
The very tight supply and escalating values and rents of industrial property throughout Sydney (notably south-western Sydney) is also impacting on the local market given its proximity to Australia’s largest city.
HTW valuers said, "given recent performance, current momentum, interest rate cuts and a strong performing local economy, we expect to see continued downward pressure on investment yields, although the challenge for investors in 2020 will be the availability of assets to purchase."
"Outside of small to medium sized strata warehouses, owner-occupiers may also struggle to find suitable premises and industrial land supply is limited at present."
"For better quality properties where demand exceeds supply, we expect there to be upward pressure being placed on rents and it will be interesting to see where market rents set for tenants who exercise options in 2020, and of course for tenants entering into new lease agreements," they concluded.
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Wollongong industrial property to remain its strongest market in 2020: HTW Industrial

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There have been minimal major shifts in Australia's industrial property markets in the past month, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's (HTW) latest industrial property clock.
In particular markets at or near their peak such as including Melbourne and the Gold Coast held steady.
There was also no movement in the approaching peak of market category as Brisbane, Geelong and Illawarra joined Sydney and the Sunshine Coast among others.
Darwin and Perth remain the only capital city industrial markets that are not experiencing price growth.
They remain at the bottom of the market alongside Rockhampton and Townsville.
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/2/12/HTW%20Industrial%20Clock%20FEB%202020.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/2/12/HTW%20Industrial%20Clock%20FEB%202020.JPG" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/2/12/HTW%20Industrial%20Clock%20FEB%202020.JPG" alt=""></a>
Hobart and Echuca held steady as the only cities in the rising market position while numerous area's including Canberra, Adelaide, Mackay and Mildura remained in the start of recovery slot.
They were joined this month by Cairns and Hervey Bay.
The Central Coast remained in the starting to decline position on the HTW Industrial Property Clock this month, accompanied by newcomer Ipswich..
Newcastle and Orange remain as declining markets, while Gladstone, Toowoomba and South West WA held steady in their approaching bottom of market slot.
In their latest report, HTW valuers said, "market commentators are suggesting that core markets on the eastern seaboard are expected to remain tightly held"
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Sydney's industrial market the most exciting to watch in 2020: HTW Industrial Clock 

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A vacant possession industrial premises located at Thomastown, Victoria has been sold at auction.
The 568 sqm building at 82 Lipton Drive attracted over 30 enquiries. 
There were 19 bids taken between two bidders.
 The property was purchased for $820,000 by an owner occupier, $70,000 above reserve. 
This result equates to a building rate of $1,443.66/sqm and a land rate of $950.17/sqm for the 863sqm site.
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Situated off Mahoneys Road, this location provides easy access to major roads and arterials including being under 3km from Hume Highway, 2.5km from the M80 Ring Road and its associated linkages to the Tullamarine Freeway, Hume Freeway and West Gate Freeway.
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It was sold by Craig McKellar and Oliver Price of CVA.
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Thomastown industrial building sold for $820,000

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Three of the 20 available lots in Brisbane's Waratah Industry Park at Acacia Ridge were sold off the plan.
The deals were negotiated by Knight Frank agents Lachlan Hateley and David Knox and Raine and Horne agents Nick Comino and Joseph Grasso.
More than $2.5 million in land has already been sold off the plan in a subdivision providing the last remaining small industrial lots in Brisbane’s core south precinct to the market.
The three smaller lots, two of which were sized at 2,500 sqm and one of which was around 3,000 sqm, sold for prices ranging between $325 and $350 per square metre, with the combined value of the sale totalling more than $2.5 million.
One lot was purchased by an owner-occupier, with developers behind the other two purchases.
The estate has been developed by Warapar Resources Pty Ltd with delivery of the project managed by Mossport Project Management.
The remaining lots range in size from around 2,100 sqm up to around 47,370 sqm, but most are 5000 sqm or smaller.
The total sales value of these remaining lots is more than $30 million.
Mr Hateley said it was expected there would be strong demand for the remaining land in the subdivision - located in the heart of Acacia Ridge at Loam Street, Competition Street and Research Street - now the titles had been released to the market.
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Three industrial lots in Brisbane's south sold OTP

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The Canberra industrial market has continued to witness stabilisation and level growth, according to the latest report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
Local commercial agents are reporting increased activity on the back of a stable residential market, improved consumer confidence and a less restrictive lending environment.
HTW focused on the ACT Government’s Four Year Indicative Industrial Land Release Program, which is based on the current level of demand for industrial land.
The program is intended to achieve a number of objectives, but in essence it is to increase the ACT Government’s responsiveness to market changes by developing an inventory of land stock, where serviced industrial sites are available for immediate release.
Land will be available across new estates in Symonston (2020-2021), Fyshwick and Majura Valley (Pialigo, 2021-2022) as well as Hume. 
The program aims to release 110,000 square metres over the next four years.
The report authors said, "owner-occupiers and private investors are active while there is also increased demand for higher valued assets as demonstrated by the February 2019 (settled) sale of 2 Paspaley Street, Hume through Burgess Rawson for $10.3 million including GST (ten year lease until 2027 plus options to 2042); reflecting rates of $2,537 per square metre of lettable area and $810 per square metre of improved land area."
"Typical analysed market yields are between six and seven per cent and lower for sub $1.5 million properties in industrial precincts."
"Queanbeyan continues to provide a desirable alternative for industrial owner-occupiers with municipal rates continuing to increase in the ACT, discouraging activity," they concluded.
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Canberra industrial market continues seeing stable growth: HTW

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A 3 hectare industrial site in Lane Cove, 13 kilometres north-west of Sydney’s CBD has hit the market. 
Situated on the shores of the Lane Cove River, the property at 170 Epping Road has been a functioning corn mill for 125 years.
Cushman &amp; Wakefield’s Paul Fernandes and Orlando Maciel have been appointed to sell 170 Epping Road via an expressions of interest campaign closing November 7.
The corn milling operations commenced in 1894 under the Chicago Starch Mills banner.
Over the course of 125 years, it have been operated by Starch Australasia, Clifford Love &amp; Co, Goodman Fielder and currently, Ingredion, an ingredient provider who continues to operate the site to this day.
The site comprises of about 30,000 square metres which includes seven industrial warehouses offering 4,500 square metres of storage, distribution and undercover loading.
Located opposite the Northern entrance to the Lane Cove Tunnel and the beginning of the M2 motorway, the property is just 1.3 kilometres from the Metro Line rail stop at North Ryde.
Surrounded by parkland, the property also features about 350 metres of uninterrupted frontage to the Lane Cove River, with Magdala park directly opposite.
Subject to the necessary approvals, the site holds the potential for a change in permissible use or rezoning.
This would follow the former Shell/McDonalds site at 150 Epping Road, which was redeveloped into a residential complex and completed in late 2016.
Ingredion will maintain its business in Australia following the sale at a new office and laboratory in Sydney.
Cushman &amp; Wakefield’s Paul Fernandes said: “170 Epping Road presents a rare opportunity for investors or developers to secure over 29,000 square metres fronting the Lane Cover River, with primary access to Sydney’s main arterial thoroughfares.
“We have already seen major residential developments in nearby locations that reaffirm, subject to planning approval, the potential to transform the large 170 Epping Road property into a business or mixed- use precinct in a unique location. This could add significant value to the site,” Fernandes added. 
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