<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, Castile, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150489]

Joel Robinson

CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Investor Warning

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The Melbourne man arrested after an alleged $110 million mortgage fraud, Aizaz Hassan, was writing loans until his accreditation was stopped this week.
Hassan held his credit licence through several lenders since 2011, currently with Australian Finance Group, one of the country's largest mortgage brokerage networks.
His credentials were listed on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=118590288&amp;authType=NAME_SEARCH&amp;authToken=6a7k&amp;locale=en_US&amp;srchid=1644771001420581775102&amp;srchindex=1&amp;srchtotal=1&amp;trk=vsrp_people_res_name&amp;trkInfo=VSRPsearchId%3A1644771001420581775102%2CVSRPtargetId%3A118590288%2CVSRPcmpt%3Aprimary" target="_blank">linkedin</a>.
The allegations relate to loans between 2008 and 2011, so do not relate to his recent employment. 
 <img src="/images/2015/01/07/Picture%2021.png" alt="">
<img src="/images/2015/01/07/Picture%2022.png" alt=""> 
An AFG spokesperson advised Hassan had been suspended, according to Fairfax Media.
His position was as a finance and operations manager at Cigna Financial, which is part of the AFG network.
Hassan and another Melbourne man, Najam Shah, have been arrested and charged following an ASIC investigation into the alleged use of false documents in support of loan applications valued at about $110 million.
Shah and Hassan have been charged with one count each of common law conspiracy to defraud, according to an ASIC release.
The charges relate to the men’s roles at a Footscray company, Myra Home Loan Pty Ltd trading as Myra Financial Services (no longer trading).
It is alleged that between April 2008 and December 2011, Shah and Hassan conspired to defraud 12 lenders, banks and other financial institutions, by creating and using false documents to support loan applications submitted on behalf of Myra clients.
The false documents included bank statements, payslips, citizenship certificates and statutory declarations. These were predominantly used in support of applications for home loans for house and land packages as well as for the purchase or refinance of existing homes. 
<a href="/expert-insights/finance/arrests-follows-after-12-lenders-caught-in-alleged-110-million-myra-home-loans-fraud">At least 350 loans valued at $110 million were submitted and approved</a> on behalf of Myra clients.
The alleged conspiracy involves submission of false documents for more than 300 loan applications to numerous banks and financial institutions, including the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation, St George Bank, Bankwest, Adelaide Bank, ANZ, Bank of Queensland, Choice Home Loans, Citibank, National Australia Bank, Pepper Homeloans and Suncorp Bank.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

AFG suspends mortgage manager after $110 million Myra Home Loans fraud arrest

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A new collaboration of six of Australia’s property experts has created Your Property Team, a group who are warning that the spruikers are out in force in the current hot market.
The <a href="https://www.yourpropertyteam.com.au" target="_blank">Your Property Team</a> group includes Destiny Financial Solution’s Margaret Lomas, Australian Property Monitors’ Andrew Wilson, consumer advocate Lisa Montgomery, BMT’s Bradley Beer, Bishop Collins’ Ian Rodrigues and Block Strata’s Michael Teys.
Lomas says that the main problem facing the industry is a lack of regulation and a failure on behalf of the federal government to recognise property investing as an industry.
“I’ve been lobbying the government, both Liberal and Labor, for around eight years now, to step up to the plate and provide supervision and control to prevent the often spectacular financial losses  by hapless property investors who fall prey to spruikers,” she said. 
“I’ve seen some really sad cases of every day Australians losing all they have worked for and having nowhere to turn and no laws to back them up.”
To counter a number of questionable seminars, they’re making their own.
She selected the team, from regular guests on her show Your Money Your Call, to create a one day national workshop series under the slogan ‘Nothing to sell except their expertise’.
“We hope to go some way toward making it hard for the spruikers who offer ridiculously expensive ‘boot camps’ and workshops to get business,” Lomas said. 
“There’ll be no upgraded course costing tens of thousands of dollars on offer and definitely no property to sell at the end – just a full day of current information, from six highly skilled experts, to help you make the most of 2015.”
The cost of one adult ticket is $410, with 400 available, according to the Your Property Team website, with Sydney Property Intensive 2015 being their first event. Melbourne and Brisbane will also see the team visit, with the possibility of visiting other capitals.
Topics covered include growth drivers, the national state of the market, financing your portfolio, depreciation strategies and strata titled property.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Property experts warn that spruikers out in force in hot market

<html><body>
Two Melbourne men, Najam Shah, 55 of Glen Waverley, Victoria and Aizaz Hassan, 34, of Truganina, Victoria have been arrested and charged following an ASIC investigation into the alleged use of false documents in support of loan applications valued at about $110 million.
Shah and Hassan have been charged with one count each of common law conspiracy to defraud, according to an ASIC release.
The charges relate to the men’s roles at a Footscray company, Myra Home Loan Pty Ltd trading as Myra Financial Services (no longer trading).
It is alleged that between April 2008 and December 2011, Shah and Hassan conspired to defraud 12 lenders, banks and other financial institutions, by creating and using false documents to support loan applications submitted on behalf of Myra clients.
The false documents included bank statements, payslips, citizenship certificates and statutory declarations. These were predominantly used in support of applications for home loans for house and land packages as well as for the purchase or refinance of existing homes. 
At least 350 loans valued at $110 million were submitted and approved on behalf of Myra clients.
The alleged conspiracy involves submission of false documents for more than 300 loan applications to numerous banks and financial institutions, including the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Westpac Banking Corporation, St George Bank, Bankwest, Adelaide Bank, ANZ, Bank of Queensland, Choice Home Loans, Citibank, National Australia Bank, Pepper Homeloans and Suncorp Bank.
Property Observer gleans the company was established in 2006 out of Whitehall Street premises.
The offence carries a maximum penalty of 15 years imprisonment.
Shah appeared at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court and Hassan before a bail justice on 2 January 2015.
Shah and Hassan were bailed on conditions including that they report to police twice a week, surrender valid passports or any other valid travel documents and not apply for any other, not attend any points of international departure and not leave Australia.
Both men are to reappear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 17 April 2015.
Manija Zayee, Shah’s partner and former Myra director, has also been charged on summons in connection with this matter with one charge of obtaining a financial advantage by deception. Zayee is to appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 27 January 2015.
It is alleged that Zayee submitted false documents in support of a loan application for a home loan, in her own name, in September 2009.
The matters are being prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.
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Arrests follows after 12 lenders caught in alleged $110 million Myra Home Loans fraud

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Police have warned would-be renters in the Lake Macquarie area of scammers copying genuine rental advertisements.
After finding rental listings on legitimate sites, the scammers reportedly copy the information and post it to a community and classifieds site.
Interested renters make contact, but are then told they must pay rent up-front before getting access to the property. The scammers cease contact as soon as the money is handed over.
According to NSW Police, there are a few common warning signs for this type of fraud.
They include landlords who mention money transfer services like Western Union or MoneyGram or claims the landlord is uncontactable or lives overseas. Scammers may also claim the renters aren't allowed to visit the property before delivering the money, or put the renter under a lot of pressure to pay the money.
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Scam alert: Lake Macquarie renters warned

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In the lead up to Asbestos Awareness Day on 28 November, it is a crucial time to consider your investment property and homes, as well as the safety of those who live in them.
One in three Aussie homes contains asbestos, including those constructed of brick, weatherboard, fibro and clad.
All property owners, particularly those who own a home built or renovated prior to 1987, should be aware of the dangers that asbestos can pose.
In Canberra, an Asbestos Buy Back Scheme is currently underway as a result of the <a href="/news/real-estate-agents-could-face-1-1-million-fine-for-not-disclosing-mr-fluffy-asbestos">Mr Fluffy asbestos insulation scandal</a>. The scheme involves the government purchasing affected properties and demolishing them.
Around 40 home owners have agreed to take part in scheme, according to the Asbestos Response Taskforce.
Home owners have until the end of June next year to decide whether or not this is what they want to do.
For those unable to choose this option, renovating or rebuilding can be an option. But owners must take care, explains Peter Dunphy, chair of the Asbestos Education Committee.
“There is no safe level of exposure to asbestos fibres,” said Dunphy.
“With at least one in three Australian homes containing asbestos, many home owners, renovators, tradies and handymen are putting their health and the health of families at risk when doing home renovations, maintenance and demolition if they release dangerous asbestos dust and fibres that can be inhaled and lead to asbestos-related diseases including mesothelioma.”
So where can asbestos be in your home?
Click to open in new window:
<a href="/images/2014/11/18/asbesto%20onv%2018%20one.png" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/11/18/asbesto%20onv%2018%20one.png" alt=""></a>
Source: Asbestos Awareness
Here is a useful <a href="https://asbestosawareness.com.au/dangers-of-asbestos-nsw/safety-facts-nsw/" target="_blank">20 point checklist for you to look at to safety check your home</a>.
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Infographic: Where might you find asbestos in your property?

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Nineteen electrical retailers and wholesalers have recalled thousands of electrical cables that failed to meet electrical safety standards.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said on Wednesday it estimates 40,000 households and businesses could be affected by the recall of the cables, which were supplied in all states and territories except the Northern Territory.
The Infinity cables, sourced from a company called Infinity Cable Co, were sold by 18 Masters Home Improvement stores and one independent wholesaler between 2010-2013 in NSW, between 2011-13 in the ACT, 2012-13 in Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia, and in 2013 in Tasmania.
ACCC chairman Rod Sims said the recall is being co-ordinated by a taskforce of consumer agencies, building regulators and electrical safety regulators.
“Testing has found that the cables will degrade prematurely and if the cables are disturbed, the insulation could break and expose live conductors, resulting in possible electric shock or fires,” Sims said in a statement.
Households and businesses that had electrical work carried out during the relevant periods of time are urged to contact the responsible builder, electrical contractor or appliance installer to see if the cabling was used.
Further information is on the <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/national-infinity-electrical-cable-safety-recall">ACCC website</a>.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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40,000 households and businesses affected by electrical cable recall

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The Real Estate Buyers Agents Association of Australia (REBAA) is warning prospective buyers to double check that the buyer’s agent they are choosing is independent and licensed, especially when they’re considering property interstate.
REBAA president Jacque Parker said that more must be done to protect consumers from unprofessional operators.
“Often an agency can be licensed in one state but not the other and still act for purchasers of property interstate,” warned Parker.
“Every state and territory in Australia has different licensing requirements so you need to make sure that the agency you’re dealing with holds a real estate qualification for the state that you’ll be buying property in.”
If the buyer’s agency is licensed, it means that a minimum of one agent within the agency is qualified.
“Currently there is no barrier to anyone setting up and practising as a buyers’ agent in an interstate location,” she said.
She also warned about double checking the independence of your buyer’s agent, suggesting that some are working for a vendor or a developer at the same time and receiving a commission from both sides of the fence.
The question she says buyers should be asking: Are you licensed in that state and are you an exclusive buyers’ agent? Exclusive agents are those who only receive payment from the buyer.
If the answer is no, Parker says that it’s time to ask whether they’re really working in your best interest.
REBAA supplied these minimum buyer’s agents training requirements across the country:
<ul>
<li>South Australia</li>
</ul>
Certificate IV in Property Services (real estate) to obtain registration and work as a buyers agent representative (or sales representative) for a fully licensed agent.
Full licence (Registered Land Agent) if you wish to open your own agency (buying or selling) - Complete Diploma of Property Services (Agency Management).
<ul>
<li>New South Wales</li>
</ul>
Need to have either full real estate licence (or dedicated buyers’ agent licence)
You can’t act on behalf of another person as a buyers’ agent without the right qualifications.
<ul>
<li>Queensland</li>
</ul>
A full real estate licence.
<ul>
<li>Victoria</li>
</ul>
Complete Certificate IV for those wanting to run a licensed buyers’ agency, which according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria takes about eight weeks to complete.
Must complete 12 months practical experience within three years of applying for a licence.
Note: You can check with <a href="https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/businesses/licensed-businesses/estateagents/public-register" target="_blank">Consumer Affairs Victoria online public register of licensed agents</a>.
<ul>
<li>Tasmania</li>
</ul>
Requires a full real estate agent licence to transact in property whether buying or selling.
Diploma of Property Services (agency management).
<ul>
<li>Western Australia</li>
</ul>
Be at least 18 years old.
Be a person of good character and repute and a fit and property person to hold a licence.
Have access to sufficient assets and financial resources enabling them to comply with all the requirements of the Act.
Understand fully the duties and obligations imposed upon agents by the Act.
<ul>
<li>Northern Territory</li>
</ul>
A full real estate licence.
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Investor warning: Is your buyer's agent properly licensed?

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The Victorian, New South Wales and West Australian state governments have issued letters to property spruikers in their states outlining their obligations under consumer law.
Victoria’s consumer affairs minister, Heidi Victoria, spoke to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2014-07-08/state-governments-warn-spruikers-to-stick-to-the/5581698?section=business" target="_blank">the ABC</a> about the high pressure, persuasive techniques used by property spruikers at seminars and events.
“The sort of things that we’re concerned about is, for example, a high pressure sales environment – so when people come along just for information, but then feel obliged to either spend money on an education program, or that type of thing,” said Victoria.
“We want to make sure they’re not feeling pressured into signing anything on the night, that they are given plenty of time. But also to understand that those operating in the space must give a 10 day cooling off period.”
In February, the ABC reported that West Australia, New South Wales and Victoria’s governments were monitoring 15 property spruikers. However, Victoria said though some property spruikers had received letters outlining their legal obligations, Consumer Affairs Victoria was not currently investigating any particular property spruikers.
“This is just more a general ‘get to know you’ sort of letter, and say, ‘these are your rights and obligations’,” Victoria said.
“We’re very much about educating people who are operating in any business. The type of letter that has gone out to them just outlines their responsibilities, and also their obligations, and of course if they don’t abide by their obligations, and if they’re not working correctly under Australian consumer law, then we can take it much further.”
Of people investing in property through a self-managed super fund, Victoria said consumers must know their rights.
“A lot of people have to understand that when they’re doing this sort of investment, that they need legal and financial advice,” she said.
“It’s not something that can be taken lightly. As I said, it really is something that many people put their life savings into, and the last thing they want is for that to go belly up. So they do need to know their rights, their obligations as consumers and make sure they are investing in something that’s going to be safe, and something that has that long term projection.”
To see the letter sent by West Australia’s Commissioner for Consumer Protection, see next page
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
West Australia’s notice to the state’s property spruikers warns them of penalties associated with misleading consumers, which include fines of up to $1.1 million.
In a letter sent to property spruikers by West Australia’s Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll, she states:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-one.jpg" alt="">
In particular:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-two.jpg" alt="">
 
She adds:
<img src="/images/2014/07/10/cut-out-july-10-three.jpg" alt="">
Driscoll notes that misleading claims “can result in penalties of up to $1.1 million for a corporation or $220,000 for an individual”.
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Property spruikers receive warning letters from states

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Real estate would be a delight for investors, were it not for the real estate “industry”.
There are times when the industry appears to exist only to mislead consumers into taking action not in their best interests.
Consumers’ best interests are subverted by industry vested interests.
There are myriad examples. Here’s one. There’s a company that makes it money marketing property in specific locations. But the principal markets himself as a mentor. Someone who guides investors on how to buy the best properties in the best locations.
A recent promo advised consumers on the best places to buy for high yields. By the purest of coincidences, the “top three picks” in Australia to buy for positive cash-flow were all places where the company is marketing product.
They included the company’s specialty area, the Pilbara region of Western Australia. South Hedland and Karratha were recommended as the best places in the nation to buy.
Here’s the pitch from the “mentor”:
“I’m a big believer in investing for cash flow and I’m always keeping an eye on which locations around the country are performing well in this area. Knowing how to locate these is vital if you want to find positive cash flow properties in Australia.
“I have some great strategies for how to locate high yield investment properties, but for now I want to share with you my top three property picks.
“There are plenty of towns where investors are achieving higher yields than those that I suggest. However, I have greater confidence in the long term outlook for the ones I’ve featured in my blog.”
He then suggests areas in which his company is a major marketer of off the plan apartments and other properties.
Here’s the reality for Port Hedland/South Hedland and Karratha. Both markets are in decline but remain outrageously overpriced.
The median house price for <a href="/news">Port Hedland</a> was $1.2 million, but has dropped 17% in 12 months and is now down to $970,000 - still way too high for investors to consider.
Rents have declined a lot so, despite the price drop, yields are typically 8%. In the boom times they were commonly 12%. Vacancies have been around 6% since late in 2012 and this market is still falling, with discounting of about 11%, according to Australian Property Monitors.
<blockquote>
Here’s the reality for Port Hedland/South Hedland and Karratha. Both markets are in decline but remain outrageously overpriced.
</blockquote>
Nearby South Hedland is also in rapid decline, with the median house price down 6% and the median unit price down 14% in the past year. The marketing company says yields from 9% to 12% are typical, but APM says the median yields is 7.8% for houses and 7.5% for units. It takes six months to sell on average, with discounting around 12%.
It’s even uglier in <a href="/news">Karratha</a>, with price decline steeper, yields lower, discounting higher and time on market longer.
In the Karratha suburb of <a href="/news">Nickol</a>, the median house price has dropped 17% in 12 months. That includes 5% in the most recent quarter, so the market is still falling. The last time there was any price growth was 2010, with the market sagging an average 12% per year for the past three years.
Discounting is around 13% and it takes five months to sell the average Nickol property. In nearby <a href="/news">Pegs Creek</a>, it takes seven months to sell.
Typical yields are claimed by the marketing company to be 8-10%, but APM indicates 6-7%, amid 6% vacancies.
Keep in mind that the mentor says these are not just good places to buy, but the best places to buy in Australia. Mentors like this you don’t need.
To provide a further feel for how this organisation pitches to consumers, here’s what is claimed to be a testimonial from a “seminar attendee” …
“I spent an evening at (name of presenter)’s seminar and all I have to say is: this guy delivers. It was a supersonic combo of strategic investment insights and wealth-building how-to’s from people who walk the talk. Incredible speakers, killer content and amazing connections, all brought together in one jam-packed evening. They clearly have a talent for creating a valuable, education, high-energy experience.”
The chances of a genuine customer writing such a tribute are zero. A “supersonic combo”? Who talks like that?
You will note they claimed it came from a “seminar attendee”, which was probably a team member or possibly the seminar presenter himself. Technically, it’s not untrue.
You can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Port Hedland and Karratha "the best places to buy"? Don't get roped into that one

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Rent to buy schemes, also known as vendor financing, have received some bad press over the past year – and it seems that their run isn’t up.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has promoted tweets, warning that property buyers should be wary of “high risk” property investments, including rent to buy.
<img src="data:image/png;base64,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" alt="">
Warning <a href="https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing-and-accommodation/buying-and-selling-property/buying-property/high-risk-property-investments" target="_blank">against property spruikers in the same link</a>, rent to buy schemes are targeted. It notes that this variation of vendor sales targets lower income earners, or “prospective property buyers unable to obtain mainstream finance”.
It warns that buyers have limited legal rights if the arrangement goes wrong.
Under a rent-to-buy scheme, the buyer enters into a rental agreement with the vendor where they are charged high rent (well above market rate). At the end of the rental period they may buy the property but ownership of the property does not pass to the buyer until they exercise the ‘option to purchase’ after the rental period has expired.
Those who clicked on their promoted tweets would have seen the following:
The risks for buyers
<ul>
<li>Rent-to-buy contracts are high-risk schemes for buyers because the title of the property is not transferred to them until they have purchased the property outright. 
</li>
<li>You will likely be paying significantly above market rate rent and will not have any equity in the property until the full purchase price is paid. 
</li>
<li>The rental period may last several years and, if your circumstances change, you may be unable to complete the payments. Therefore, if you pay almost the full purchase price but do not complete the payments, you won’t get your money back and will not have any claim over the property. 
</li>
<li>Even if you complete the rental payments, you may still not obtain a home loan and lose not only the property, but also all of money you have spent. 
</li>
<li>Be aware that if you use your first home buyers grant to buy a property, you will lose the right to apply it to any future property transactions. 
</li>
<li>Some rent-to-buy contracts may indicate that you will lose all payments made and have no claim over the property, if you fail to make even a single payment on time. 
</li>
<li>In addition to rent payments and an option fee (for the option of purchasing), some contracts generally require you to pay for repairs and maintenance, council rates, insurance and other outgoings. 
</li>
<li>Potential buyers should be aware that these costs may be substantial, particularly with an older or run down property. 
</li>
<li>If the vendor has a mortgage over the property and fails to keep up their own repayments, their lender may have the right to repossess the property.</li>
</ul>
Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria
Vendors must be aware that they must:
<ul>
<li>Abide by the rent-to-buy contract and be unable to sell the property to the another buyer (perhaps offering a higher price) while the contract is in force, even if you need to liquidate your assets due to a change in circumstances. 
</li>
<li>Be effectively locked into a long-term settlement period where the purchase price is fixed and you will lose any right to future capital growth if the property’s value increases over that time. 
</li>
<li>Remain legally responsible for the property until the buyer makes the final payment and the property title is transferred.</li>
</ul>
Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria
They also warn that if you are using the rent to cover the mortgage then you will be left vulnerable if the buyer fails to pay, and the renters may choose not to buy the property mid-way through the rent to buy process.
As an example of what can happen, on one instance in 2011, <a href="/expert-insights/investing/tenants-sell-landlords-pool-in-rent-to-buy-swindle">tenants sold a vendor’s pool in a rent to buy swindle</a>.
Western Australia’s Consumer Protection has been particularly bullish against rent to buy schemes. For one company, the Supreme Court ruled that one operator was illegally functioning as the owners were not licensed estate agents and also misled those who signed up – this was <a href="/news/wa-rent-to-buy-scheme-ruled-deceptive-and-illegal-with-other-similar-schemes-facing-investigation">in the case of No Loan Home Pty Ltd in June 2012</a>.
In another publicised situation, a WA rent to buy property scheme saw <a href="/news/wa-consumer-protection-targets-rent-to-buy-property-scheme-that-took-david-beckham-jersey-in-lieu-of-deposit">vendors taking a signed David Beckham jersey and a Franklin Mint Edition Monopoly Board in lieu of a deposit</a>.
Property Observer followed what caused a young brother-and-sister duo to be led <a href="/expert-insights/investing/from-seminar-to-success-story-to-getting-fined-in-the-supreme-court-of-western-australia-how-it-happened">from a rent to buy seminar to being fined in the Supreme Court of Western Australia for their property dealings</a>.
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