<p>A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.</p>

<p>The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" /></p>

<p>The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.</p>

<p>According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.</p>

<p>Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.</p>

<p>"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" /></p>

<p>The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.</p>

<p>Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" /></p>

<p>Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.</p>

<p>Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.</p>

<p>They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.</p>


Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

<p>Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.</p>

<p>In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.</p>

<p>The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.</p>

<p>The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments</p>

<p>The site currently comprises three commercial properties.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" /></p>

<p>The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.</p>

<p>The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" /></p>

<p>A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.</p>

<p>Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.</p>

<p>Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.</p>


First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.</p>

<p>The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]</p>

<p>The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.</p>

<p>Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]</p>

<p>The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.</p>

<p>Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.</p>

<p>With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]</p>


Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

<p>A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.</p>

<p>Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]</p>

<p>The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.</p>

<p>Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.</p>

<p>Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.</p>

<p>The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]</p>

<p>Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.</p>

<p>Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]</p>


Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.</p>

<p>Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.</p>

<p>Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.</p>

<p>Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.</p>

<p>"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.</p>

<p>"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]</p>

<p>For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.</p>

<p>Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;</p>

<p>All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.</p>

<p>Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.</p>

<p>"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]</p>

<p>The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.</p>

<p>"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]</p>

<p>Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.</p>

<p>The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]</p>

<p>Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.</p>

<p>Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]</p>


Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Land Values

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<p>Will Rogers probably didn't have Sydney's inner west in mind when he famously said "don't wait to buy land; buy land and wait", but it would have been an apt observation if this has been the case.  </p>
<p>The New South Wales Valuer General reported that total land values had risen yet again by 11.3 percent in the 2016 financial year to $1.5 trillion.</p>
<p>The value of the state's land is up by more than 57 percent in only four financial years.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/NSW4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
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<br><div>Unsurprisingly the gains were driven by residential land values which rose by 11.1 percent to $1.2 trillion.</div>
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<div><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Inner west land pressures</span></strong></div>
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<div>Caution should always be exercised when interpreting residential land value figures, which were calculated from a sample of more than 38,000 sales in the 2016 financial year. </div>
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<div>This is particularly so at the Local Government Area (LGA) level, where median values can be skewed higher by sites with development potential, particularly at this advanced stage in the cycle.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>As usual the most valuable residential land was the in the leafy LGAs of Mosman to the north ($1.84 million median) and Woollahra to the east ($1.82 million) which remain very much the domain of the wealthy, but most of the serious gains have been seen in the inner west of Sydney.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>No fewer than 16 LGAs now have a median residential land value of more than $1 million, which will result in hefty land tax levies. </div>
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<br><div>Not everywhere saw large gains in land values, with often only moderate changes in regional and coastal New South Wales, and the Blue Mountains, for example. </div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div>
<span>There were declines too in mining locations. </span><br><span><br></span><span>Broken Hill and the mining areas of the Hunter (the LGAs of Muswellbrook, Singleton, and the Upper Hunter) recorded drops in land values ranging from around 8 per cent to 15 percent.</span>
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<br><div>On the other hand, the greatest gains in the financial year were seen in Burwood, with land values up by no less than 37.5 per cent, a location which saw the sale of a number of development sites in both the centre of the suburb and along Parramatta Road. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Over the past four financial years there have been crunching gains in half a dozen or more LGAs located to the west of the Sydney Central Business District.</div>
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<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/NSW2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
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<br><div>We live in a nominal world, as the saying goes, and when looking at the greatest dollar value increase in median residential land values, top of the pile was Strathfield which has recorded an astronomical increase of $723,000 since FY2012.</div>
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<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/17/NSW3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
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I can't think of anything pithy to say about these numbers, so I'll leave the last word to Will Rogers:<br><br>"Find out where the people are going and buy the land before they get there."<br><br>Indeed.
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<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

NSW land values rise again to $1.5 trillion: Pete Wargent

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<div>Residential land values soared by more than $1 trillion dollars in Australia over the three years to June, and by more than half a trillion dollars (+15%) in the last year alone. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><span>Since 1989 the total value of land in Australia has surged by well over $4 trillion, with residential use accounting for nearly $3.5 trillion or more than 85 per cent of the increase.</span></div>
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<div><a href="/images/2015/11/24/Land.jpg" target="_blank"><span>Click to enlarge</span></a></div>
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<div><span>Since dwelling prices over the long run are ultimately a derivative of the land value which sits underneath, I always recommend capital city properties as those with the greatest potential for price growth.</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>Particularly I look at those located within easy commuting distance of the Central Business District and with a high percentage land value content, which typically means steering well clear of high rise tower blocks.</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>Since 2012, the biggest paper gains for property speculators have been seen in Sydney, with the total value of residential land in New South Wales spiralling by more than 53% in just three financial years. </span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>Victoria has also seen land values increase by 35% over the same time period, with broadly similar gains in land values across the next three most populous states in the 20 -22% range.</span></div>
<div><span> </span></div>
<div><span>Of course, population growth accounts for some of the increase in residential land values, and so too does the prosperity of the local economy, the lower cost of capital, and the relative scarcity or availability of the land in question. </span></div>
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<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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Residential land values soar: Pete Wargent

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<p>Residential land sales have increased by 45.9 per cent from their record low in the March 2019 quarter, according to the February 2020 edition of the HIA-CoreLogic Residential Land Report.</p>
<p>HIA Economist, Angela Lillicrap said, "the first half of 2019 was particularly rough for the residential building industry, with falling house prices, uncertainty surrounding the election and the credit squeeze all weighing on confidence."</p>
<p>“Leading indicators in the final months of 2019 show that the housing market has improved and the increased demand for residential land is further proof of this."</p>
<p>“A shortage of land is one of the factors that has driven home prices to increase over the past decade. With demand for land picking up, it is important that an adequate supply is maintained each year to avoid undue pressure on housing affordability,” concluded Ms Lillicrap.</p>
<p>According to Eliza Owen, CoreLogic’s Head of Residential Research, “Demand for land and dwellings has rebounded strongly from June last year, which is also reflected in a 6.7% rebound in national dwelling values over the past 7 months."</p>
<p>"The strength of the rebound comes from a halved cash rate between June and October last year, the re-election of the Coalition Government providing certainty around negative gearing and capital gains concessions, and ongoing demand for owner-occupier dwellings as the millennial cohort moves through the first home buyer age bracket of 25-34."</p>
<p>"Prices for land and housing are likely to rise further over 2020, though this may be slightly mitigated by higher listing levels coming to market, as sellers take advantage of price increases,” she concluded.</p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Demand for residential land is on the rise: HIA

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<p>Victoria is a great place to invest with land prices having soared since 2014, according to a recent analysis BY REIV</p>
<p>Their findings claimed that land values over the past 5 years has confirmed that Victorian property continues to go from strength to strength.</p>
<p>Over the same period, the median property size has dropped slightly, meaning that Victorians are now paying more for less.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/11/14/Melbourne%20PPSQM%201.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>REIV President Leah Calnan said while sales volumes have declined, continued strong demand in Melbourne has resulted in consistent price growth.</p>
<p>“Melbourne’s outer growth Southeastern and Western suburbs are some of the fastest-growing parts of Australia.” Ms Calnan said.</p>
<p>“17 suburbs across Melbourne have had their land value more than double since 2014.”</p>
<p>“In signs of an improving market, we are again seeing increasing demand from interstate and international purchasers"</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/11/14/Melbourne%20PPSQM%202.JPG" alt=""></p>
<p>“Regional Victoria and outer Melbourne experienced a larger drop in median land sizes than those in the city but values continue to increase.”</p>
<p>“People are drawn to water, 4 of the 17 highest growth suburbs are in Mornington Penisula.”</p>
<p>“Location is always important, Middle Melbourne suburbs near the city like Essendon West and Glenroy recorded 125% Growth.”</p>
<p>“In the West, Brooklyn provides great value with a median price of $1,892 per metre squared; competing with neighbouring Footscray or Maidstone," she concluded.</p>
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Melbourne land values soar over 5 years: REIV

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<div>EXPERT OBSERVER</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne's median lot value increased by another 41 per cent year-on-year to a record $359,000, according to HIA figures. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>That's up from just above $200,000 five years ago.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZCsu9VpbuE/W1rx_-Uc-VI/AAAAAAAArPY/YZBBVJ_sGiQOaw6zqM6yq0yrXO97uQsEACLcBGAs/s1600/HIA1.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZCsu9VpbuE/W1rx_-Uc-VI/AAAAAAAArPY/YZBBVJ_sGiQOaw6zqM6yq0yrXO97uQsEACLcBGAs/s640/HIA1.jpg" width="640" height="352" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="1050"></a></div>
<div> </div>
<p><span>In Sydney the median lot value sits just below its peak at $469,500.</span><br><br></p>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l_7zcmy45gY/W1ryAXV4WBI/AAAAAAAArPc/Z_Iyx7t366A-1PSwHuammLsDttc3tFs6ACLcBGAs/s1600/HIA2.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l_7zcmy45gY/W1ryAXV4WBI/AAAAAAAArPc/Z_Iyx7t366A-1PSwHuammLsDttc3tFs6ACLcBGAs/s640/HIA2.jpg" width="640" height="370" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="1046"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<div>Lot sizes have been shrinking over time too.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Indeed, on a price per square metre Sydney's land price was more than 8 per cent higher than a year earlier. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>A 700sqm block in Kellyville sold for $1,200,000 this week, some 36 kilometres from the CBD and located close to the M7 motorway.<br><br>
</div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB3ffLyZCQk/W1rzBrapBaI/AAAAAAAArPs/Io4s_-lFocwwt4z-H7mLAevdkTfQcwP7gCLcBGAs/s1600/HIA3.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB3ffLyZCQk/W1rzBrapBaI/AAAAAAAArPs/Io4s_-lFocwwt4z-H7mLAevdkTfQcwP7gCLcBGAs/s640/HIA3.jpg" width="640" height="380" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1043"></a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sales volumes have declined significantly, which combined with rising prices suggests limited availability on the market. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Overall, it's been another strong decade for land prices.</div>
<div>
<br><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</em>
</div>
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Melbourne's house and land values continue to rise: Pete Wargent

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<p>The Melbourne land market has performed strongly over the past four years in response to a sustained undersupply, according to BIS Oxford Economics.</p>
<p>Surging population growth supported by improving economic conditions have combined with low interest rates to see underlying demand for dwellings steadily rise.</p>
<p>Initially, land prices were also largely affordable relative to the existing outer Melbourne housing stock, enabling pent-up demand to be released into the market.</p>
<p>Through this period, the numbers of new estates being marketed increased dramatically, with outer Melbourne lot production rising to a record 21,400 lots in 2014/15 and averaging 21,050 lots per annum over 2014/15 to 2016/17. Corresponding land price growth has also seen new house affordability deteriorate.</p>
<p>The significant rise in new land and house activity has been exceeded by new apartment construction, with this sector forecast to enter a modest oversupply from 2017/18, with potential knock-on effects to the new house and land market.</p>
<p>Likely falls in apartment prices may encourage the purchase of apartments instead of houses, while more competitive apartment rents may delay some first home buyers purchasing a new house.</p>
<p>While lot production is likely to hold up over 2017/18, it is expected to fall away over the following two years. Land prices are also expected to flatten out, or even decline as developers offer incentives to purchasers. The downturn is forecast to be brief and moderate, with a rising undersupply forecast to quickly re-emerge and drive the next upturn by the end of the decade. </p>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Melbourne land performs strongly over past four years: BIS

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<p>The total land value for the Illawarra region has increased over the 12 month period to 1 July 2016 by 10.4 percent from approximately $68.49 billion to $75.59 billion, according to the latest report from the Valuer-General.</p>
<p>The <em>Report on NSW Land Values</em><em> </em><em>at 1 July 2016</em> found that there was an overall increase in land values of 10.7 percent for residential properties. This is slightly more than for Wollongong residential land values which generally increased between 7 percent and 10 percent. The highest increases in the region were recorded in the Wollondilly, Wingecarribee and Shoalhaven areas.</p>
<p>Residential land values in Milton increased by 46 percent due to the area's popularity as a weekend tourist destination and its affordability relative to nearby beachside localities. Similarly,the value of residential land in Hilltop and rural residential land east of Wilton increased by around 40 percent.</p>
<p>Overall, commercial land values in the Illawarra region increased by 8.2 percent. However, commercial land values increased by 36 percent in Tahmoor, and by 58 percent in Appin.</p>
<p>Industrial land values showed an overall increase of 5.8 percent. Land values in the major industrial areas of Wollongong generally showed increases of between 4 percent and 11 percent, while properties in the smaller centres of Bomaderry, Huskisson and Sussex Inlet showed increases of approximately 10 percent.</p>
<p>Rural land values varied across the Illawarra region, but showed an overall increase of 14 percent. Rural land values in the Shoalhaven, Wollondilly and Wingecarribee LGAs were influenced by a growth in residential development and demand for rural small holdings. These areas experienced overall increases of between 11 percent and 21 percent.</p>
<p>Land values in the Tahmoor/Thirlmere locality showed even stronger increases of between 30 percent and 40 percent.</p>
<p>For more information including interactive online land value summaries for all LGAs and 14 regions covering the state go to <a href="https://www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank">www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au</a></p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/24/nsw-5.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Property Observer found a 10 acre lot, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-milton-201460146" target="_blank">107 Spring Valley Way, Milton</a>, (above) on the market for $695,000. It is fully fenced with tar road access, a dam and underground power.</p>
<p>A parcel of land sized 100 acres, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-milton-201699910" target="_blank">669B Woodburn Road Milton</a>, (below) has 40 acres of cleared land, 4 large dams, a shed and sealed driveway and is on the market for $895,000.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/3/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-03%20at%209.18.24%20AM.png" alt=""></p>
<h3 class="address"> </h3>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Milton residential land values jump 46 percent: Valuer-General

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<p>The total land value for the Western region has increased strongly over the period to 1 July 2016 by 16.4 percent from $2.09 billion to $2.43 billion, according to the latest report from the Valuer-General.</p>
<p>The <em>Report on NSW Land Values</em><em> </em><em>at 1 July 2016</em> found that industrial (15.6 percent) and rural (24.5 percent) land values saw the largest increases, while residential and commercial land values remained generally steady. Good seasonal conditions and high livestock and commodity prices have been the main drivers for land value increases.</p>
<p>Overall residential land values were steady at -1.5 percent. Central Darling (15.2 percent) showed a strong increase in land values while the LGA of Wentworth (7.8 percent) showed a moderate increase. Broken Hill LGA (-11.6 percent) showed a strong decrease due to a downturn in the local mining industry.</p>
<p>Commercial land values remained steady across the region, with the exception of Central Darling which showed a significant increase. The increases in Central Darling (155 percent) are generally small in dollar terms for example, increases in land values from around $900 to $2200.</p>
<p>Industrial land values showed strong increases of 15.6 percent across the region, with the exception of Wentworth LGA (4.8 percent), which showed a slight increase, Bourke LGA which remained steady and Cobar LGA (-10 percent) which showed a moderate decrease.</p>
<p><span style="font-size: 12.16px;">Rural land values for the Western region increased by 24.5 percent. The exceptions were Balranald (2.0 percent) and Wentworth (4.8 percent) LGAs, which only increased slightly and Broken Hill, which remained steady.</span></p>
<p>For more information including interactive online land value summaries for all LGAs and 14 regions covering the state go to <a href="https://www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank">www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/25/nse-12.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/nse-12.jpg" alt=""></p>
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Mixed story for Western land values despite strong growth: NSW Valuer-General

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<p>The total land value for the Northern Tablelands region has increased over the 12 month period to 1 July 2016 by 9.5 percent from $7.42 billion to $8.13 billion, according to the latest report from the Valuer-General.</p>
<p>The Report on NSW Land Values at 1 July 2016 found that rural properties showed the highest overall increase of approximately 11.4 percent. Good seasonal conditions together with strong commodity prices for beef and lamb have been the main drivers for strong increases in rural land values in the region. Inverell LGA showed the strongest increase (20.3 percent), while the lowest growth was experienced in the Walcha LGA (7.9 percent).</p>
<p>An Inverell farm currently for sale is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-mixed+farming-nsw-inverell-7869918" target="_blank">Seven Oaks</a> (above), 280 acres along the banks of the gushing Frazers Creek, at $599,000 through Ruralco.</p>
<p>Residential land values increased by 6.2% overall. The highest increases were in the LGAs of Uralla (12.1 percent), Inverell (7.7 percent) and Armidale (7.2 percent), whilst Walcha (-4.9 percent) and Glen Innes (-2.1 percent) showed a decrease in value.</p>
<p>Commercial land values across the region generally remained steady. The strongest increase occurred in the LGA of Uralla (16.8%). However, commercial land values decreased in the LGAs of Walcha (-5.3) and Glen Innes (-2.4%) reflecting lower demand for commercial property in these areas.</p>
<p>Industrial land values for the region have generally remained steady. The strongest increase was experienced in Uralla (9 percent), with the largest decrease in Walcha (-5 percent).</p>
<p>For more information including interactive online land value summaries for all LGAs and 14 regions covering the state go to <a href="https://www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/24/nsw-9.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/24/nsw-9.jpg" alt=""></p>
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Beef and lamb prices nourishing Northern Tablelands rural prices: NSW Valuer-General

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<p>The total land value for the South East region increased only slightly over the 12 month period to 1 July 2016 by 2.6 percent from approximately $26 billion to $26.67 billion, according to the latest report from the NSW Valuer-General.</p>
<p>The Report on NSW Land Values at 1 July 2016 found that there was an overall increase in land values of 2.7 percent for residential properties. The largest increases in residential land values were seen in the former council areas of Palerang, 5.1 percent, and Snowy River, 6.1 percent.</p>
<p>Overall, commercial land values increased slightly by 2.4 percent. However, commercial land values in the Goulburn Mulwaree Council area showed moderate increases of 7.4 percent, with investors and owner occupiers competing for the limited number of properties on the market.</p>
<p>Industrial land values generally remained steady across the region. Exceptions to this trend were seen in Yass Valley Council and the former council area of Palerang, where values increased by approximately 10 percent, as well as in Upper Lachlan Shire Council, where the total industrial land value fell by 6.2 percent.</p>
<p>Rural land values showed an overall slight increase of 2.6 percent, influenced by strong stock and commodity prices and good seasonal conditions.</p>
<p>For more information including interactive online land value summaries for all LGAs and 14 regions covering the state go to <a href="https://www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au" target="_blank">www.valuergeneral.nsw.gov.au</a>.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/01/nsw-11.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/01/nsw-11.jpg" alt=""></p>
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