<p data-end="1587" data-start="1236">The Victorian Government has secured the passage of the Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026, introducing a suite of reforms aimed at improving consumer protection and confidence in the apartment market.</p>

<p data-end="1587" data-start="1236">Resilience Insurance, Australia’s leading Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) provider, has welcomed the move.</p>

<p>The LDI elements of the Bill passed with bipartisan support and now moves to the Legislative Council where debate and passage are expected later this month. It represents a significant milestone in the national shift toward stronger, longer-term protection for apartment buyers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The reform would deliver practical benefits across the housing system. Apartment owners will have stronger protection if major defects emerge, developers and builders will have a clearer quality framework to work within, and the State will reduce the risk of serious building failures becoming a long-term financial and social burden for households, communities and government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>LDI helps support apartment delivery while providing stronger protection for buyers and encouraging better construction outcomes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Resilience LDI provides apartment owners with 10 years of insurance-backed cover for major structural defects from completion, with direct claim access to the insurer. This means owners are not required to first pursue developers or builders through costly legal action before accessing protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Resilience Insurance has been operating in Australia since 2022 and has already insured hundreds of development projects covering many thousands of apartments across Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At approximately 1.8 per cent of build cost, it is a cost-competitive alternative to the traditional two per cent Strata Bond, bond while delivering significantly broader and longer protection.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The Victorian Lower House vote shows that reforms like this succeed when they are practical, evidence-based and supported by industry," says Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.</p>

<p>"Victoria is moving quickly on a reform that will make a real difference for apartment buyers, while supporting better building outcomes and greater confidence in apartment delivery.</p>

<p>“This is step one. We look forward to the Bill completing its passage through the Legislative Council and to working with government and industry to implement the framework effectively.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI): Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Consumer-first: Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Cost advantage: At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Market leader: Resilience Insurance is the first approved LDI provider in NSW.</li>
</ul>


The Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026 has passed the Victorian Lower House, putting Victoria on track to become the first state to legislate an industry workable LDI framework as a formal alternative to the Strata Building bond. 

Joel Robinson

10-year Latent Defects Insurance for new apartment buyers set to land in Victoria

<p>Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.</p>

<p>Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.</p>

<p>There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.</p>

<p><img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" /></p>

<p>Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.</p>

<p>"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."</p>

<p>The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a></em></p>

<p><em>Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a></em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

<p>Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.</p>

<p>The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.</p>

<p>Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.</p>

<p>The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" /></p>

<p>A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.</p>

<p>Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.</p>

<p>New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.</p>

<p>GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.</p>


First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

<p>A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.</p>

<p>The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.</p>

<p>Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368853]</p>

<p>The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.</p>

<p>GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available.</p>

<p>Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]</p>

<p>The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.</p>

<p>The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]</p>

<p>For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.</p>

<p>GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.</p>

<p>"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.</p>

<p>"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]</p>


GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.</p>

<p>The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.</p>

<p>The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" /></p>

<p>A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.</p>

<p>The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.</p>

<p>"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.</p>

<p>The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.</p>

<p>Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."</p>

<p>The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.</p>

<p><img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" /></p>

<p>The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.</p>

<p>S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.</p>

<p>Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.</p>

<p>John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.</p>


First look: S&S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street

Industry News

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>Onthehouse Holdings Limited, the ASX listed online real estate content and services platform, has announced it is looking for a joint venture partner to assumed majority ownership of its consumer online division, the platform providing free access to property sale prices and estimated home values on most properties in Australia.</p>
<p>A strategic review of the company following months of internal company turmoil has resolved to keep and concentrate on its real estate solutions division that provides software tools for real estate agents, other property professionals and financial institutions through Console and Real Estate Ad Network. </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>It conclusions reached by the board have been touted as avoiding the need to raise capital and dilute the current shareholding, or obtain debt funding.</p>
<p>The board told shareholders:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p>Consumer Online (COD) and Real Estate Solutions (RES) are distinct businesses and there is no compelling inter-dependency between them;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>As a consequence they need to be managed independently with a focus on an individual strategy for each business;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Sharing of data will be by way of license agreements;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>The new COD subsidiary will have its own Board chaired by Onthehouse’s largest shareholder Michael Dempsey and will include current Board member Lisa Hickson;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>RES generates approximately $9 million in free cash per year and is able to self-fund implementation of its strategy;</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>COD consumes approximately $7 million in cash per year that is currently being funded by the cash generated by RES;</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>It said both businesses had "significant intrinsic value that is not currently recognised by the market."</p>
<p>Its COD will be developed in a non-listed JV vehicle in which OTH Holdings would maintain an interest, of between 30% and 49%.</p>
<p>The board anticipates JV partners could be one or several of the following:</p>
<ol>
<li>
<p>Like businesses that can add experience, technology or other industry assets etc. to the venture; and/or,</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Venture capital investors or other funders.</p>
</li>
</ol>
<p>"The board believes significant value can be created in this structure without the responsibility of funding the COD business.</p>
<p>"The search for appropriate JV partners has commenced and OTH is currently in discussion with a number of parties," chairman Tony Scotton told shareholders.</p>
<p>The Board expects that the separation strategy will take six months to execute. </p>
<p>The new company structure, allowing the RES business to develop its potential without the constraints of funding COD, would see the listed company having a stable, profitable core business with a significant investment in the "potential upside of the COD business."</p>
<p>Over recent times activist investors have appeared on its share register and then its board following the abrupt mid-2014 departure of its founding shareholder and chief executive Michael Fredericks. <span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Chris Meehan has been named chief executive officer having </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">been acting chief executive since February. Other recent</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> appointments include Emily Santucci as chief financial officer and Andy Antonini as chief operating officer.</span></p>
<p>Michael Dempsey who pocketed about $150 million from the sale of Ezidebit, took an 8 per cent stake in Onthehouse in December last year.</p>
<p>In 2013 it billed itself as Australia’s third largest real estate portal when it reached one million unique browsers per month. It is now more than three million.  </p>
<p>Onthehouse.com.au provides free access to 13.6 million Australian property data sets to its online and mobile visitors, including live sales and rental listings.</p>
<p>But the Consumer Online consumes about $7 million in cash annually triggering recent pre-tax impairment charges of $10.5 million, which led to a $9.1 million half-yearly loss for the company.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The $9.1 million loss for the six months to 31 December 2014 came after reporting a $587,000 profit the year before.</span></p>
<p>Disregarding the one-off costs, Onthehouse posted a $93,000 underlying profit – an 86 per cent drop on the previous year.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">Onthehouse's total revenue sits at around $13 million - t</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">he group’s Real Estate Solutions division at $10.7 million.</span></p>
<p>The group’s Consumer Online and Data Analytics saw revenue at $2.3 million.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Onthehouse.com.au seeks to sell unprofitable consumer website after strategic review

<html><body>
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>Eight tips for professional estate agent service emerged from<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> the 2015 Consumer Perceptions of Real Estate Agents survey.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>1. Be professional </p>
<p>The number one behaviour highlighted by vendors as essential was professional behaviour demonstrated by being proactive, pre-empting their needs and delivering as promised. </p>
<p>2. Regular feedback </p>
<p>Vendors stressed the value of agents who were proactive about delivering a transparent sales process and who used data-based insights to support their processes. </p>
<p>3. Be friendly and approachable </p>
<p>Vendors appreciated agents being easy to talk to and with whom they felt safe to ask questions at any time. </p>
<p>4. Know your market </p>
<p>Vendors felt confident they were in good hands when agents demonstrated their market expertise, showed them the data they had used to determine price estimates and took the time to explain market behaviour to anxious vendors. </p>
<p>5. Provide advice and help </p>
<p>Vendors highly valued advice on presenting their homes in the best possible light especially when it was supported by recommending and helping coordinate tradesmen. </p>
<p>6. Be on their side </p>
<p>Vendors felt championed by agents who negotiated hard on their behalf and offered to assist them with the purchase of their next home. </p>
<p>7. Be thoughtful </p>
<p>Vendors were impressed by agents who demonstrated thoughtfulness – either by ensuring multiple agents were located around the home during opens, to offering bottles of waters to buyers on hot days through to thank you gifts at the conclusion of the sale. </p>
<p>8. Don’t dump them at the end </p>
<p>Many vendors flagged they felt dumped by their agents as soon as the sale was signed, while those whose agents who stayed in touch were more likely to be delighted and recommend their agents to friends. </p>
<p> </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The 2015 Consumer Perceptions of Real Estate Agents survey was commissioned by</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> CoreLogic RP Data. It seeks</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> seeks to understand the quality of real estate agent performance and service in Australia and how it matches - or misses - the expectations vendors have when selling their homes.</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Eight ways for estate agents to be more professional

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>When it comes to achieving an expected or better price for a property, a new survey shows there is no difference between the sexes. </p>
<p>But price is not everything, the 2015 Consumer Perceptions of Real Estate survey found.</p>
<p>Kylie Davis, head of Real Estate Solutions at CoreLogic RP Data, commissioned the survey that shows 24% and 22% of male and female agents respectively sold the vendors property above the expected price.</p>
<p>And 49% of male agents were found to sell around the expected price compared to 52% of female agents.</p>
<p>Both sexes were evenly represented at 21-22% in selling below expectations. </p>
<p>But the survey revealed a difference in the satisfaction levels vendors experienced when dealing with a female agent compared to a male agent: female agents were more likely to deliver a consistent experience for vendors. </p>
<p>"This does not mean female agents were better at various elements of the sale process simply because they were women. </p>
<p>It does however correlate the finding that the better the skill levels of the agent, the more satisfied vendors are likely to feel. </p>
<p>Female agents outperformed their male counterparts in the skills of handling open for inspections (41% women agents rated as excellent compared to 33% men), providing regular feedback (45% of female agents rated as excellent compared to 31% of male agents), following up of potential buyers and leads (43% of female agents rated as excellent compared to just 29% of male agents) and negotiation skills (38% of female agents rated as excellent compared to 28% of male agents). </p>
<p>Female agents were more likely to be identified as excellent at managing the sales process – 42% for female agents compared to 28% for male agents.</p>
</div>
<div class="column">
<p>Female agents were more likely to deliver an excellent quality presentation (33%) compared to 22% of the male agents. </p>
<p>Preparation levels of vendors who used female agents were also higher with 66% feeling very well prepared before going through the sales process, compared to 56% of vendors with a male agent. </p>
<p>The take out of this insight is not to assume an agent will be better at various skills of selling simply because of their sex, but for vendors to be clear about the type of selling experience they expect, and to select an agent who demonstrates these skills. </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>Regardless of market conditions the majority of vendors – 66% – rated their overall experience when selling their home as either excellent (31%) or good (35%), according to recent research, though some 20% claimed the experience was average and 14% below expectations. </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>Some 68% of respondents said they would recommend their agent to friends or family, according to market research company, Roy Morgan which has been polling Australians about the trustworthiness of different professions since 1975. </p>
<p>Real estate agents have always polled poorly - in its 2015 Image of Professions only 9% of those surveyed rated them as “very high” or “high” ethics and honesty. Only advertising people and car salesmen score worse.</p>
<div class="page" title="Page 3">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>"The 2015 Consumer Perceptions of Real Estate survey wanted to test this stereotype by going directly to people who had experience of agents and their performance," the report advised.</p>
<p>"Popular mythology stereotypes real estate agents as being untrustworthy smooth-talkers who put their own needs above those of their clients," said Kylie Davis, head of Real Estate Solutions at CoreLogic RP Data,<a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/file-download?id=39427689-a225-410e-bb81-dccc8b09592c" target="_blank"> who commissioned the report</a>.</p>
<p>"At CoreLogic, we wanted to understand whether this perception had any bearing on reality, or was it an urban myth? </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 5">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<div class="page" title="Page 5">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>"The 2015 Consumer Perceptions of Real Estate Agents is a new report that seeks to understand the quality of real estate agent performance and service in Australia and how it matches - or misses - the expectations vendors have when selling their homes.</p>
</div>
<div class="column">
<p>"It is our passionate belief that it is only through transparency that we can ensure the ongoing success of the industry by demonstrating how professional services are meeting – and exceeding - consumer expectations if we are to change the reputation of the industry once and for all," she said.Some 36% of respondents claimed they expected to stay in touch with their agent or use him or her again and an additional 26% saying they would consider it. </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>The survey identified that real estate agents are managing price expectations well with 23% of those surveyed selling above the expected price and 50% selling for the expected price. One in four sold below the expected price. </p>
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>Some 38% of respondents said they interviewed just one agent before making their decision on which agent to use. Some 55% chose to interview two or three agents before making their decision. Only 8% interviewed more than three agents. </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p>The survey showed very few real estate agents demonstrated their market knowledge using technology. Only 17% used an iPad or video to share market information, and 12% received market information in an email. </p>
<p><a href="/images/2015/06/01/sexes.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p><img src="/images/2015/06/01/sexes.jpg" alt=""> </p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Some differences between the sexes? CoreLogic RP Data estate agent satisfaction survey results

<html><body>
<p align="left">Dow Jones has launched Mansion Global, mansionglobal.com, a standalone, global luxury real estate website.</p>
<p align="left">It brings together high-end property listings from brokerages and developers around the world, designed to empower international buyers to make intelligent purchase decisions and to engage the luxury real estate enthusiast.</p>
<p align="left">The site will feature original content as well as news and information from News Corp publications and web sites around the world, including articles from <em>The Wall Street Journal</em>,<em> Barron’s, The Times of London, The Sunday Times, The Australian</em> and realtor.com. Today it even carries a link to an Australian Fincial Review article.</p>
<p align="left">The site will launch with English, Spanish and Chinese-language editions. </p>
<p>Launch sponsors for Mansion Global include Sotheby’s International Realty, Extell Development Company and Sub-Zero and Wolf.</p>
<p>“News Corp’s shared passion and dedication to real estate makes them an ideal partner for the Sotheby’s International Realty brand,” said Wendy Purvey, Chief Marketing Officer, Sotheby’s International Realty Affiliates LLC. </p>
<p>The concept for <a href="https://mansionglobal.com" target="_blank">Mansion Global</a> was first incubated at News Corp, led by chief executive Robert Thomson who retains a small apartment in Sydney.</p>
<p>Mansion Global is a Dow Jones product and is independent from <em>The Wall Street Journal</em> and its Mansion real estate section.</p>
<p>Australians listings on the site come from Sothebys, Christies International and Coldwell Banker.</p>
</body></html>

Mansion Global launched by News Corp

<html><body>
<p>The public believe real estate agents are less trustworthy than politicians, insurance brokers and lawyers, according to the latest Roy Morgan Image of Professions survey.</p>
<p>Real estate agents have been deemed the third-most dishonest professionals in the country, with only 9% of Australians aged 14 and over judging them the most trustworthy profession. Only car salesmen (at 4%) and advertising people (at 5%) are considered less trustworthy.</p>
<p>Real estate agents' honesty was also at the same level last year. Since 1987, agents' reputation has remained at a similar level, between 7% and 12%.</p>
<p>Real Estate Institute of Australia chief executive Amanda Lynch told <a href="https://www.rebonline.com.au/breaking-news/8986-agents-judged-less-honest-than-politicians-and-lawyers" target="_blank"><em>Real Estate Business</em></a> agents' poor reputation is not based in reality.</p>
<p>"The only way to address this perception is to maintain high-quality training and standards, and continue to fight against the proliferation of three-day quickie qualifications which are offered by outliers in the industry," she told the publication.</p>
<p>Roy Morgan's telephone survey was conducted in the evenings between 8 April and 10 April, with 598 respondents aged 14 and over.</p>
<p>The most trustworthy professionals nationally were nurses, with 92% of respondents considering them the most trustworthy professionals.</p>
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Real estate agents among the least trusted professionals in the country: Roy Morgan

<html><body>
<p>Stockland’s residential deposits are running at the highest levels in five years with the developer saying it is well placed to achieve full year lot settlements at the upper end of its 5,000-6,000 expectations.</p>
<p>There was "strong momentum" going into FY16, its chief executive Mark Steinert said, adding Stockland was on track to achieve 7.0 – 7.5% earnings per share (EPS) growth in FY15, tightening previous guidance, on presenting its quarter three stock market update.</p>
<p>There were 1,427 net deposits for the quarter, the strongest year to date result in over five years, with third quarter results impacted by moderation in Queensland though confidence re-emerging following the Queensland election.</p>
<p>Stockland reported Victorian market conditions remain robust while reduced net deposits were achieved in NSW due to limited Sydney releases and settlements delayed pending the delivery of trunk infrastructure.</p>
<p>The successful summer sales campaign drove WA volumes, where market conditions continue to moderate.</p>
<p>“We continue to be disciplined in implementing our strategy to grow returns and this has seen us achieve another positive quarter across all areas of our business,” Steinert said.</p>
<p>Expanded customer reach and continuing positive market conditions sees Stockland on track to settle at the upper end of its 5,000 to 6,000 lots through the cycle target range in FY15 with strong momentum going into FY16.</p>
<p>“Our focus on creating thriving communities that enhance the wellbeing of our customers continues to drive high satisfaction," <span>Steinert said.</span></p>
<p>"A recent survey of residents in our masterplanned communities revealed that our customers have a personal wellbeing score well above the Australian average.”</p>
<p>Stockland has acquired around 4,000 new lots during the quarter, including residential lots and apartment sites.</p>
<p>The Group’s other core businesses also continued to perform well, with Retirement Living and Logistics and Business Parks making good progress implementing their growth strategies.</p>
<p>The Retirement Living business is on track to deliver an increase in sales in FY15, with the $160 million Cardinal Freeman redevelopment in Ashfield, Sydney, underway with the first stage of 28 apartments, due for completion in April 2016, already 65% reserved.</p>
<p>Construction of stage two has now commenced.</p>
<p>Stockland has reported strong retail sales during the third quarter, with comparable specialty sales showing the strongest growth since 2009.</p>
</body></html>

Queensland election boosts confidence (and the bottom line): Stockland

<html><body>
<p>The Victorian agent James Tostevin has taken the crown of Australia’s top selling agent.</p>
<p>Tostevin, of Marshall White &amp; Co, took out the win in industry websitE<em> Real Estate Business</em>’ Top 100 Agents rankings for the third consecutive year.</p>
<p>The annual rankings, now in their fourth year, is judged after agents submit their own entry, so excludes many leading agents who decline to participate.</p>
<p>The coastal eastern suburbs Sydney-based agent Alexander Phillips from Phillips Pantzer Donnelley and Marcus Chiminello, also of Marshall White's prestige eastern suburbs Melbourne office, secured the next two rankings.</p>
<p>Together the three accounted for nearly $1 billion in residential real estate sales.</p>
<p>To earn a spot in the top 100, agents are judged on the number of sales they made last year, the total value of properties sold and their efficiency.</p>
<p>In the last year, 8,610 properties were sold by the top 100 agents with revenue totalling nearly $6 billion, Tom Sullivan, publisher of <em>Real Estate Business</em>, said.</p>
<p><strong><em>Real Estate Business</em>’ Top 10 Agents</strong></p>
<p>1. James Tostevin, Marshall White</p>
<p>2. Alexander Phillips, Phillips Pantzer Donnelley</p>
<p>3. Marcus Chiminello, Marshall White</p>
<p>4. Ric Serrao, Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay/Bondi Beach</p>
<p>5. Simon Harrison, Belle Property Lane Cove/Hunters Hill</p>
<p>6. Glen Coutinho, RT Edgar</p>
<p>7. Michael Clarke, Clarke &amp; Humel Property</p>
<p>8. Jason Boon, Richardson &amp; Wrench Elizabeth Bay/Potts Point</p>
<p>9. Adrian Bo, McGrath Estate Agents</p>
<p>Equal 10. Ben Collier, McGrath Estate Agents</p>
<p>Equal 10. Peter Chauncy, McGrath Estate Agents</p>
</body></html>

James Tostevin secures third win as Australia's top selling agent

<html><body>
<p>James Packer's Crown Resorts has been ordered to endeavour to resolve its trademark dispute with the burgeoning apartment developer, Iwan Sunito's Crown Group.</p>
<p>The Federal Court Justice John Griffiths ordered the parties to attend a mediation session held by a private mediator.</p>
<p>Crown Resorts is trying to stop Iwan Sunito's company from trading under the name Crown Group Holdings, claiming the apartment developer is cashing in on the $10 billion casino operator's brand.</p>
<p>Sunito's Crown Group filed a counter claim. Both seek wealthy Asian investors.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2015/02/11/corwn-logogs-feb-11-two.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><em>Crown Resorts logo (left), Crown Group logo (upper right) with logo for Crown Apartments (lower right)</em></p>
<p>The property developer has $3.5 billion of residential developments in its Australian project pipeline.</p>
<p>Spokesmen from Crown Resorts and Crown Group both declined to comment on the court case when contacted by Fairfax Media.</p>
</body></html>

Crown Resorts and Crown Group told to mediate name dispute

<html><body>
<p>Developer Villawood Properties has established new Queensland offices in Southport ahead of its launch of two new Gold Coast residential communities.</p>
<p>Founded in Victoria in 1989, Villawood has developed more than 60 award-winning residential masterplanned communities along the eastern seaboard.  </p>
<p>"This year, it is expanding its Queensland operations to diversify its land bank and take advantage of key growth corridors," Villawood Properties co-executive director Tony Johnson said.</p>
<p>The new Southport office is 110 square metres on level six of 64 Marine Parade.  It previously occupied an office at 11-13 Station Street, Nerang.</p>
<p>The relocation comes as Villawood Properties has appointed Christopher Ciuffetelli to the role of assistant development manager in Queensland.  </p>
<p>He joins Michael Williams, Villawood Properties state manager – development.</p>
<p>Villawood Properties co-executive director Tony Johnson said the new Queensland communities were part of its "aggressive three-year growth strategy" and combined represent a total land value of $50 million.</p>
</body></html>

Villawood setup for Gold Coast projects

<html><body>
<p>Nadia Karkar has tendered her resignation as the Kay &amp; Burton chief executive officer, effective 30 April 2015.</p>
<p>Michael Gibson and Ross Savas will now serve as joint managing directors as the CEO role will not be replaced.</p>
<p>In early 2014, Nadia Karkar took he job having been a corporate lawyer in New York and Hong Kong. She had also been an associate director at Hastings Funds Mangement having a MBA from the University of Chicago, Booth School of Business, and a Melbourne University Bachelor of Commerce and Laws (Hons). </p>
<p>“We are thankful for Nadia’s strategic guidance and leadership over the past 14 months," said Ross Savas. </p>
<p>“We wish Nadia the very best in the next phase of her career.</p>
<p>"The company has undergone a successful transformation both from an operational and branding point of view and, no doubt, Nadia has set Kay &amp; Burton on an innovative course for changing times.”</p>
<p>“I am proud that we were able to successfully implement such a large number of strategic initiatives in such a short space of time," said Karkar.</p>
<p>"I have done what I set out to do and it is now time for me to pass the torch along to those who, without doubt, will make it shine even brighter.</p>
<p>“I am proud that we were able to successfully implement such a large number of strategic initiatives in such a short space of time.  I have done what I set out to do and it is now time for me to pass the torch along to those who, without doubt, will make it shine even brighter.”</p>
<div><img src="https://kayburton.com.au/app/webroot/files/Our%20People/South%20Yarra/Nadia%20Karkar.jpg" alt="Nadia  Karkar"></div>
<div class="col-sm-7 people-text-col text-">
<h1> <span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 1.3em; color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif;"> </span>
</h1>
</div>
<p> </p>
</body></html>

Industry News

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Industry News

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News