<p>Sydney developer Deicorp is set to officially open its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Showground Village</a> precinct in Castle Hill.</p>

<p>NSW Premier Chris Minns will attend the opening on Sunday August 31, alongside&nbsp;Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, The Hills Shire Council Mayor Dr Michelle Byrne, Landcom CEO Alex Wendler, and Deicorp Founder Fouad Deiri.</p>

<p>Located just moments from Hills Showground Metro Station, the centre spans 9,500 sqm across four levels and features 26 specialty retailers as well as a 1,400 sqm public plaza, creating a new community meeting point for shopping, dining, fitness, and everyday convenience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Showground Village forms part of the Hills Showground Station Precinct, an urban renewal initiative led by Landcom and Sydney Metro that will provide for around 2,300 new jobs over the next 20 years and around 9,000 new homes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Deicorp was recently approved for another new development next door to Showground Village.</p>

<p>The new five residential buildings in the East Showgrounds Precinct, will see another 873 dwellings delivered, as well as&nbsp;3,500 sqm of open public space in the form of landscaped courtyards, a public park and communal outdoor recreational space including a playground, barbeque area, and outdoor seating.</p>

<p>“This approval will allow us to start construction on a range of beautifully designed, conveniently located apartments and create another vibrant, walkable and well-connected community,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/deicorp" target="">Deicorp</a>&nbsp;Founder Fouad Deiri.</p>

<p>“These new homes will provide their residents with a seamless connection to jobs and services along Metro North West, and the new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/hills-showground-village-castle-hill-2-mandala-parade-castle-hill" target="">Hills Showground Village</a>&nbsp;retail precinct currently under construction."</p>

<p>Deicorp has several thousand apartments in planning and under construction across Sydney, from Zetland and Five Dock to Crows Nest and Macquarie Park.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=133881]</p>


Joel Robinson

Deicorp, NSW Premier officially open Showground Village, new retail and hospitality hub in Castle Hill

<p>ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods is progressing its plans for its Southbank arts precinct site.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The developer has filed plans, which are now with the&nbsp;Department of Transport and Planning, for a new 20-level tower at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/141-151-sturt-street-southbank-vic-3006">141–151 Sturt Street</a>, a 2,718 sqm block opposite the Habitat Filter sculpture.</p>

<p>The proposal seeks to demolish the two-level&nbsp;commercial building, including a small supermarket and medical tenancies, and create a new building with 180 apartments and a focus on an&nbsp;active public realm and arts integration.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Southbank site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="76a72db6-91ef-43ae-827d-a9cfa72893d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Site.png?VersionId=DZgtB4K6BswVh0QtCs3iLjXaLp0CbcEb" /></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>There will be a full mix of apartment configurations, including 28 studio apartments, 16 one-bedroom, 104 two-bedroom, and 32 three-bedroom units.</p>

<p>Retail, creative arts, and residential amenity functions are integrated across the lower levels. A food and drink tenancy is planned to front Dodds Street, while a retail tenancy fronting Sturt Street will be accessed via an elevated walkway. The first floor includes a substantial 734 sqm creative arts space, envisioned to support Melbourne’s growing cultural and digital industries.</p>

<p>Architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has put together the plans. In their&nbsp;Urban Design Report they highlighted the project’s ambition to embed itself within Southbank’s evolving cultural fabric.</p>

<p>A central feature of the design is a through-block link connecting Sturt and Dodds Streets, landscaped with native plantings and embedded with universal access ramps.</p>

<p>“The ramp has been thoughtfully integrated as the primary access point, ensuring universal accessibility for all users,” the report noted, with the link offering “a direct response to the urban planning scheme of creating more green spaces within our communities”.</p>

<p><img alt="Southbank podium" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4d24b1b2-d69c-4a11-a11d-ec6df432221c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium.png?VersionId=geWoJyZDmPSLODZ_.PNJ0LvpOmyyCdpo" /></p>

<p>The building’s podium form responds to the mandatory height limits along Dodds Street and maintains a fine-grain interface to adjoining developments. Above the podium, the tower is articulated with recessed balconies and a focus on views toward the CBD and surrounding arts institutions. A communal rooftop recreation deck and indoor lounge are positioned on level four, adjoining seven apartments and providing over 900 sqm of resident amenity space.</p>

<p>Vehicle access and loading will be provided via Dodds Street, with 155 resident car spaces located across two basement levels and the first three above-ground floors. Bicycle storage is more generous, with 226 spaces distributed across resident, staff and visitor needs.</p>

<p>Rothelowman describes the architecture as “humanist,” with ground-level interfaces designed to encourage social interaction and provide a dignified entry for both residents and passers-by. “All street interfaces are crafted to invite and nurture human connections,” the design report states. “The façade transitions to a human scale, providing an approachable and engaging streetscape”.</p>

<p>Cedar Woods, while well-known for its large communities it develops outside of Australia's capital cities, they have recently developed in Melbourne's inner-ring before. They are approaching completion at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/88-leveson-north-melbourne-88-leveson-street-north-melbourne-vic-3051">88 Leveson</a>, just 15 townhouses in the heart of North Melbourne.</p>


Cedar Woods progresses with new apartment plans in Southbank arts precinct

<p>Brisbane developers Core Property Partners and Vector Property Australia has teamed up for Brisbane's newest apartment development.</p>

<p>The duo identified <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as their preferred suburb, on the fringe of the Gabba Precinct, where they've just revealed BANKSII, 72 apartments opposite Raymond Park.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5481]</p>

<p>The one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments will sit in a glass-wrapped building that will also feature a rooftop with an&nbsp;infinity-edge pool, a BBQ area and alfresco dining spaces, sun lounges, and a sauna, as well as a resident-only gym and a ground-floor cafe.</p>

<p>Rhett Williams, Director of Vector Property Australia, said the project will lift the quality of the East Brisbane community and set a new benchmark.</p>

<p>"In Brisbane’s current property landscape, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/banksii-east-brisbane-169-wellington-road-east-brisbane-qld-4169">BANKSII</a> stands out through its emphasis on lifestyle-oriented living, connectivity and sophisticated design," Williams says.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5479]</p>

<p>The 10-level building has been designed by MAS Architecture. Their designs were inspired by the native Banksia flower, with the architecture and interiors reflecting the organic symmetry of its namesake flora. MAS has interpreted this throughout the building’s curved form, façade detailing and interior palette.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The building’s flowing geometry and natural tones are complemented by large balconies and floor-to-ceiling glazing, maximising cross-breezes, daylight and views over the city, parklands and river.</p>

<p>“Having a strong narrative for a building helps us architecturally,” MAS noted. "We can choose colours that come off that species of flowers. The trunk and the trees and the flower elements all are now visible in our joinery on the inside and in our architectural finishes on the outside."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5485]</p>

<p>Apartments will feature timber floors, soft porcelain tiles, brushed bronze fittings, and stone benchtops with warm veining.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Kitchens feature premium SMEG appliances and generous storage, while bathrooms have been designed as calming retreats with curved cabinetry and twin sinks in the master ensuites.</p>

<p>The building will feature a suite of rooftop and wellness amenities. Residents will have access to an infinity-edge pool, BBQ and alfresco dining areas, sun lounges and a rooftop sauna.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A residents-only gym will be located on the podium level, while a ground-floor café and landscaped laneway will further activate the site and improve neighbourhood connectivity.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=136432 project_image_fid=5488]</p>

<p>BANKSII will rise from a prime Wellington Road site, with the building oriented to overlook the adjacent Raymond Park and take in extensive city views. It is also on the doorstep of key&nbsp;lifestyle infrastructure, including the future Kangaroo Point Green Bridge, The Gabba stadium, and the planned Brisbane Live arena.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Public transport options, including ferry, bus and rail - including the future Cross River Rail Woolloongabba station - are all nearby, supporting a car-optional lifestyle just minutes from the CBD.</p>

<p>Williams said the team spent over a year searching for the ideal site before securing this location.</p>

<p>"We were attracted to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/east-brisbane-qld-4169">East Brisbane</a> as it is a vibrant and growing community that offers a perfect balance of urban convenience and natural beauty with the parklands and river on our doorstep.”</p>

<p>The project is part of the broader Woolloongabba Games precinct, which is undergoing significant investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. This urban renewal, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to enhance long-term liveability and capital growth in the area.</p>

<p>Given the wide max of configurations, BANKSII is expected to suit everyone from first home buyers and investors to families and downsizers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136432]</p>


BANKSII sales launch in booming East Brisbane apartment market

<p>The Minns Labor Government will deliver Sydney’s first new heavy rail station in more than a decade – enabling up to 10,000 new homes by rezoning land around Woollahra and Edgecliff stations, right next to the CBD, to tackle the housing crisis and rebalance growth across the city.</p>

<p>Recent reports by the NSW Productivity Commission have warned that Sydney is losing twice as many young people as it is gaining, while also finding that Woollahra is the most feasible Local Government Area (LGA) in New South Wales to build new housing.</p>

<p>Despite this, housing approvals in Woollahra consistently lag well behind other LGAs, and the population has declined by 11 per cent over the past 50 years while Greater Sydney as a whole has grown by 74 per cent.</p>

<p>The new station that will be an eight-minute trip from Sydney CBD, will be located on the Eastern Suburbs train line in Woollahra, where a station build was started in the 1970s but never completed.</p>

<p>To enable the delivery of new homes the NSW Government will lead a rezoning of Woollahra and Edgecliff stations similar to other state led rezonings to allow additional homes to be built around the stations.</p>

<p>Affordable housing will also make up a proportion of development on the site with the final amount of affordable housing required, to be determined as part of the rezoning process.</p>

<p>The area surrounding the new station is within walking distance of major green and recreational space including Cooper, Trumper, Rushcutters Bay and Centennial Parks.</p>

<p>The Eastern Suburbs train line between Bondi Junction and Sydney CBD also has the lowest passenger usage rates during the AM peak of any line on the Sydney network, with only 43 per cent of operating capacity during the AM peak currently being utilised by passengers.</p>

<p>Sydney Water and Infrastructure NSW have confirmed there is capacity in the water and wastewater systems to accommodate the proposed 10,000 dwellings without major upgrades.</p>

<p>The rezoning is expected to take around two years and will further support the Government’s housing targets that rebalance the delivery of new homes around existing infrastructure.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Next stop Woollahra train station - delivering up to 10,000 new homes in the heart of Sydney

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="b086848">
<p>Fresh off completing its mixed-use Malvern project Malvern Collective, Kokoda Property Group has acquired a prime site on Richmond's Bridge Road.</p>

<p>They are planning a mid-rise residential development with&nbsp;integrated wellness amenities and a vibrant ground-floor retail and dining offering.</p>

<p>The site, at&nbsp;487–495 Bridge Road, spans&nbsp;1,650 sqm with 50 metres of dual frontage across Bridge Road and Palmer Street. It is currently leased to Adairs, and has a large retail building and 20 onsite car parks.</p>
</section>

<section data-element_type="section" data-id="534a164">
<p>Kokoda Property Group’s acquisition forms part of a broader phase of growth in Melbourne, building on momentum from the completion of Malvern Collective and the recent purchase of a Burnley Street site for the developer’s first commercial project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating.</p>

<p>“Melbourne is regaining momentum,"&nbsp;Stevens said.</p>

<p>"After a cautious period post-COVID, we’re seeing buyer sentiment stabilise and capital leaning back into well-located, quality projects. Victoria now benefits from deep builder capacity and competitive delivery pricing, creating a rare opportunity to bring design-led inner-city developments to market without compromising on craftsmanship.</p>

<p>“Richmond ticks all the boxes for us – connectivity, culture and everyday amenity – making Bridge Road the perfect address for an amenity-rich, multi-use development."</p>

<p><img alt="Kokoda" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9a8de51d-8092-480a-8b7e-e081816692c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-29%20at%208.54.27%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VRHpV5.6beOu2cieKHWrw3ErMPuVOAuj" /></p>

<p>Envisioned as an “urban lantern” the building will bring a distinctive new presence to Bridge Road with a sculptural retail frontage, designed to honour the street’s heritage character while contributing to its renewal.</p>

<p>Stevens said the acquisition reflects the developer’s commitment to design-led addresses in Melbourne’s inner city.</p>

<p>“Drawing on Richmond’s rich heritage and dynamic character, we’ve envisioned a contemporary building that respects the past while elevating the way people live today. With dual frontages, curated ground-floor spaces, and a focus on wellness, this project will contribute to the neighbourhood’s evolution, appealing to both downsizers and a new generation of professionals.”</p>

<p>Kokoda Property will now progress concept design ahead of a future planning process.</p>
</section>


Mark Stevens, Kokoda Property Group’s Founder and Managing Director, said that the company’s Bridge Road site acquisition signals confidence in a city that is re-accelerating

First look: Kokoda secures Richmond site for new apartment development

Mcgrath

<p>With substantial forecasted population growth, and the North West Metro, Castle Hill is becoming a sought-after suburb. Offering genuine value compared to more established apartment markets like Chatswood, St Leonards and Macquarie Park, it is attracting first home buyers, investors, downsizers and upsizers. Due to complete Spring 2024, Grand Reve has been billed as the most prestigious development ever offered in the Hills District.</p>

<p>Hear from Sydney local Gerry, who recently purchased his new home at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve as well as Josephine, who recently purchased two new properties at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve.</p>

<p>&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/b2-cVGxhNtQ?si=GiknCU48EDLJIcz6" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94147]</p>

<p>*Dasco has been rated 4.5 gold stars in the NSW Government's Rating System, iCIRT, which helps prospective buyers more easily identify building professionals who have a proven track record, supported by objective evidence of their past capability to deliver buildings you can trust. The more stars, the more confidence your construction industry professional is likely to deliver a reliable outcome.</p>

<p>&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VXyo-f3_kEQ?si=TIyi2dsofYbqGT8I" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=94147]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203070]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=203069]</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Hear from Sydney local Gerry, who recently purchased his new home at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve as well as Josephine, who recently purchased two new properties at Kassis Homes' Grand Reve.


Olivia Round

Grand Reve Recent Purchaser Testimonials from Josephine & Gerry

<p>It's not often an off the plan buying opportunity comes up in Marrickville, Sydney's popular inner west suburb.</p>

<p>Following their success of Kindred apartments nearby, Astute Property Developments are soon to launch their latest development in the area which has become popular for its breweries and eclectic dining scene.</p>

<p>The new project, Mosaic, will see 43 apartments created on Illawarra Road, the heart of Marrickville. The name Mosaic pays homage to the mosaic artworks dotted around Marrickville, as well as the diverse mix of architectural styles and its buzzing music and foodie scene.</p>

<p>Astute Property, led by managing director Fady Rizk, are developing and building the eight-level project, which is coming up for sale through McGrath Projects.</p>

<p><img alt="The view from Mosaic Marrickville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="737630ed-c359-477d-963c-348dd039de66" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-23%20at%206.52.59%20am.png?VersionId=QEAX7Q3vdlSe3ez91kkt1Ft5UXCNDuTh" /></p>

<p>“We spent the last 12 months modifying the existing DA, focusing on reducing the number of apartments to increase study and living space and accommodating people who continue to work from home,“ Rizk says.</p>

<p>“This site is a rare find in Marrickville and we’re excited to transform a previously derelict building and revamp the strip that is fast establishing itself as the ‘eat street’ of Marrickville.”</p>

<p>The project includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments with prices starting from $820,000 for a one-bedroom apartment which range in size from 50 to 55 sqm internally, with a further 12 to 25 sqm of internal space.</p>

<p><img alt="The communal area at Mosaic in Marrickville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64b3ef42-10b1-44bc-8571-350df763d304" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-23%20at%206.53.42%20am.png?VersionId=pCmkzvXX.K_PiCV5nf7x9fl4Tv50JaPu" /></p>

<p>The two-bedders will start from $1,195,000, and range in size from 75 to 89 sqm internal and a further 10 to 40 sqm external.</p>

<p>The largest apartments, with three bedrooms, have 100 sqm of internal space and 15 to 20 sqm external.</p>

<p>Colin Griffin, Associate Director for McGrath Projects, says the team has created a unique premium offering for Marrickville which he believes will appeal to both investors and owner occupiers.</p>

<p>“‘Mosaic’ provides a great opportunity for investors to secure a premium product, at a desirable price point, that is in limited supply in Marrickville," Griffin says.</p>

<p>"Tenants are looking for quality properties in an area that has all the elements you want in a desirable lifestyle close to transport, schools and parks, plus – great dining options, cafes even live music and are happy pay a premium for all this at their doorstep. As a result, Investors are always looking to purchase where tenants want to be.</p>

<p>“We also expect strong interest from young families and young professionals who understand the vibe of Marrickville, looking to upgrade their home and live in an area that they already love.”</p>

<p>Benson McCormack Architects and interior design studio Axlund &amp; Goldstein Interiors have collaborated on the project, which includes 200 sqm of private residential space on level four which will feature a communal garden.</p>

<p><img alt="The new Mosaic development in Marrickville" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de989fd7-f7c3-46c0-9831-9cd300dd44f9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-08-23%20at%206.52.54%20am.png?VersionId=ZGiSsVr.eWxf.TvHCjisnKTSWggjKLMq" /></p>

<p>“The open space with communal intimate zones enables a number of groups to use the area and enjoy the city views, with a little sense of privacy,” Rizk added.</p>

<p><strong>Fast Facts</strong></p>

<p>Mosaic is expected to be completed at the end of 2023.</p>

<p>Product mix: 16 x 1 bedroom; 25 x 2 bedroom; 2 x 3 bedroom apartments.</p>

<p>4 x Ground Floor retail tenancies totalling 410m2.</p>

<p>One-bedroom apartments range in size from 50-55 sqm internal and 12-25 sqm external and are priced from $820,000 to $940,000.</p>

<p>Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 75-89 sqm internal and 10-40 sqm external and are priced from $1,195,000 to $1,495,000.</p>

<p>Three-bedroom apartments range are each approximately 100sqm internal with 15-20 sqm external and are priced at approximately $1,800,000.</p>


Astute Property, led by managing director Fady Rizk, are developing and building the eight-level project, which is coming up for sale through McGrath Projects

Marrickville set for rare new apartment development

<p>While house values have rocketed over 2021, apartment values have too quietly shown steady growth over the year to date.</p>

<p>And as house prices continue to escalate and become affordable for many, apartments are becoming a much more attractive, and necessary, proposition, with further growth forecast when international borders open and investors come back in to the market.</p>

<p>Urban recently caught up with John McGrath, who founded McGrath back in 1988, to discuss how the apartment market went in 2021, and how it is shaping up for the next few years.</p>

<p><strong>JC: How have you viewed the performance of the apartment market (established and or off the pl​an) in 2021, and what are the strongest positive and negative factors that will influence outcomes in 2022 and 2023?</strong></p>

<p><strong>JM</strong>: There’s no doubt that apartments, other than luxury, have missed much of the price surge that established houses have enjoyed. &nbsp;In many locations we’ve seen houses prices escalate by 35-40% and&nbsp;in those same areas we’ve seen a more modest 5-10% rise in apartment values.</p>

<p>There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, apartments have a larger investment buyer profile &amp; the strongest demand has been from owner occupiers. Also a large percentage of apartments that are not bought by investors sell to first home buyers who generally don’t have the same buying power or discretionary spending that is appearing higher up the price chain.</p>

<p>And finally, in many of the big cities apartments have been hit hard by the closure of international borders &amp; less inflow of migrants &amp; students which have increased vacancy &amp; reduced rental returns momentarily. But I think if anything this makes apartment buying represent better growth in many parts of the country as houses become less affordable and&nbsp;overseas borders open up in 2022.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=94147 project_image_fid=152849]</p>

<p><strong>JC: What trend (short term or long term) has prompted your greatest enthusiasm for the apartment market, and what is the issue of most concern to you and or your clients?</strong></p>

<p><strong>JM</strong>: In general apartment living has replaced the traditional quarter acre aspiration for many Australians due primarily to housing affordability for younger buyers and&nbsp;also an ongoing desire to live in urban, inner city and&nbsp;beachside locations. And whilst COVID has driven many buyers to more remote lifestyle areas there’s no doubt that convenient, secure, low maintenance strata living will continue to be in great demand as we move through the immediate impacts of the pandemic. &nbsp;</p>

<p>And as COVID has changed the way many of us live, many developers have also pivoted &amp; are now designing and&nbsp;buil​ding apartments that cater to the needs of this changing environment. And finally I believe the ideal combination of many empty nesters moving forward will be a great inner city living space along with a getaway within two hours so apartment living will reinvent itself and&nbsp;deliver the population what it wants post-COVID.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=9040 project_image_fid=28461]</p>

<p><strong>JC:&nbsp;Has urbanisation stalled or what will it look like over the decade ahead?</strong></p>

<p><strong>JM</strong>: As more employers and&nbsp;employees discovered that they no longer need to travel to a central location to effectively conduct their work I believe we will find a reduction of 25-35% of the workforces commuting daily to the CBD and&nbsp;commercial centres.</p>

<p>So this will have an impact on many jobs, employees and&nbsp;employers. Ans as many opt for home-based work this will undoubtedly have some impact on the shape of home and&nbsp;work environments &amp; locations.</p>

<p>Proximity to these commercial hubs for a percentage of the population will become less of a priority and&nbsp;lifestyle benefits such as proximity to family, beaches and&nbsp;parks will move up the checklist. But many people still want to be located within a reasonable commute of the many lifestyle benefits located in and around the CBD so I have no doubt that demand for these will continue to be in high demand.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=24444 project_image_fid=81414]</p>

<p><strong>JC: How important do you view the push for sustainability practices in the apartment market/new housing estates, and what initiative has seized your interest or focus?&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>JM</strong>: With more &amp; more demand for environmental sustainability from all generations there’s no doubt that buildings that are both gentler on the environment and&nbsp;more self-sufficient will become increasingly popular, especially for the younger generations.</p>

<p>As yet we’ve seen some movement in this direction but I expect this to rapidly escalate moving forward due to increasing education and&nbsp;agitation towards a cleaner greener environment. I think we will see this manifest in more environmentally friendly building materials as well as buildings that are less taxing on the planet once built.</p>

<p>Even though much of the demand has been driven from Generation X &amp; Y we are also seeing older generations paying more attention of late which will increase the pressure on developers to build bu​ildings that fall in line with not only council expectations but more importantly the expectations of the community and&nbsp;residents.</p>


"Apartment buying represents better growth in many parts of the country as houses become less affordable and overseas borders open up in 2022."

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Apartment living to reinvent itself post COVID: Five minutes with John McGrath

<html><body>
<p>The ASX-listed real estate agency McGrath have announced they have returned to net profitability, with new chief executive Eddie Law citing a relatively strong residential real estate market over the past four months.</p>
<p>"It appears consumers are re-assessing their home needs and aspirations in a post-COVID world," Law, who was speaking at his first AGM having taken the top job in August, said.</p>
<p>"Both transaction volumes and average selling prices across our network have exceed the prior year in each of the first four months of FY21."</p>
<p>McGrath's FY20 saw an underlying EBITDA of $3.7 million, a $10.1 million turnaround from FY19 which has seen them return to net profitability.</p>
<p>"We ended 30 June with a strong balance sheet with zero debt and a $17.3 million cash balance, an increase of $7 million from 30 June 2019," Law added.</p>
<p>McGrath are forecasting underlying EBITDA to be in a range of $6 million to $6.5 million for the first half of FY21.</p>
<p>Law however was cautious amid the optimism of the general improved outlook, saying there is still undercertainty in the first half of 2021.</p>
<p>"With the scheduled end of the JobKeeper and deferred mortgage programs still yet to be determined, along with other macro factors impacting consumer confidence, there is still material uncertainty as to whether the momentum evidenced in the first half of FY21 will be maintained in the second half results."</p>
<p>McGrath shares were up over eight per cent on the positive news to 46c a share.</p>
<div class="_2xMD5"> </div>
<p> </p>
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

McGrath return to net profitability, reinstate dividend

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<p>McGrath Limited today announced the appointment of an additional non-executive director, Shane Smollen.</p>

<p>Mr Smollen’s appointment follows McGrath posting a significant turnaround with Underlying EBITDA of $3.7 million for the year to 30 June 2020, compared with a loss of $6.4 million in the previous year.</p>

<p>A leading property professional since 1983, Mr Smollen owned one of the country’s leading real estate networks before selling it to McGrath in 2015. Mr. Smollen, who currently holds 7.94% of McGrath’s issued capital, has been advising McGrath’s sales management team over recent months with a focus on productivity and revenue growth.</p>

<p>Chair of McGrath, Mr. Peter Lewis, said “Shane brings to the board an excellent real estate track record with expertise in all aspects of the sector, combined with integrity and insights that will accelerate our profit turnaround and restore shareholder value."</p>

<p>Mr Smollen said “I am delighted to join the board of McGrath, a company that I know well. I believe the group is well placed to take advantage of an expected consolidation of the real estate agency sector.</p>

<p>McGrath has performed significantly better than the market during the year, notwithstanding the ongoing impacts of COVID.</p>

<h2><strong>Recently listed properties:</strong></h2>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=24323]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=22699]</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=26730]</p>
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McGrath appoints Shane Smollen as non-executive director

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<p><span>McGrath Estate Agents have announced the opening of a new office in Cooma NSW. </span></p>
<p><span>This will be the third new regional office in the past two months, following opening in Albury/Wondonga and Mansfield in Victoria.</span></p>
<p><span>Founder John McGrath believes that affordability provides a huge incentive for regional migration as families reassess their lifestyle options.</span></p>
<p><span>Mr McGrath said, </span><span>“COVID </span><span>has definitely accelerated the ability to work remotely and areas within a two hour radius of large towns and cities I believe will be very much sought after, particularly as a commute has never been easier with new infrastructure that connects the modern worker more readily and easily</span><span>.”</span></p>
<p><span>The Snowy Monaro </span><span>Shire’s </span><span>roots are rich in history dating back to the </span><span>1800’s</span><span>, however </span><span>Cooma’s </span><span>name and reputation has been highlighted as it is at the centre of </span><span>Australia’s </span><span>largest engineering project, the Snowy Mountains Hydro Electricity Scheme. The Shire itself is the main gateway to the Snowy Mountains, Kosciuszko National Park and within close proximity to Canberra and Queanbeyan, and just 1.5 hours to the south coast beaches.</span></p>
<p><span>Christopher Mourd, Head of Franchise Network for McGrath Estate Agents said, </span><span>“</span><span>We see real growth and opportunity in these key regional areas as they have outperformed their capital city counterparts through COVID.</span><span>” </span><span>(source: CoreLogic July 2020)</span></p>
<p><span>He adds, </span><span>“</span><span>The Snowy Mountains of NSW are a key lifestyle market for our ACT and NSW client base, who are increasingly attracted by its relaxed way of life, affordable housing, and sense of community. Cooma is central to this market, serviced by a local airport, excellent infrastructure and connectivity, the Goulburn Bombala Rail line as well as good health and educational facilities.</span></p>
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<p><span>“The </span><span>region traditionally is a mixed grazing area, however it has benefitted greatly from the Snowy Hydro Scheme, and the ski resorts within an hour of Cooma. However, 2020 has seen the full approval of the </span><span>nation’s </span><span>largest renewable energy project, Snowy 2.0 which is expected to create more than 2,000 jobs during the construction peak with thousands of jobs generated indirectly. With its added employment opportunities, we believe it offers excellent opportunity for growth in the next few years as a major regional hub for treechangers and young </span><span>families.” </span><span><br></span></p>
<p><span>McGrath Cooma will service the area from Michelago in the north to Delgate in the south; and Bemboka in the east to Thredbo in the west. Key suburbs will include Cooma, Bredbo, Berridale, Jindabyne and Thredbo.</span></p>
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<p><span>McGrath Cooma will be led by Principal Shannon Fergusson previously operating his own agency Fergusson Real Estate and Property with his wife, Rachel since 2010. Shannon has been in the industry for more than 20 years, and living in Cooma since 2005. </span></p>
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<p><span>The average median house price for Cooma is $320,000 with Shannon Fergusson achieving recent sales results </span>in the last six months including:</p>
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<p><span>44 Kiah Avenue Cooma </span><span>– </span><span>A street record for a four-bedroom home sold for $615,000</span></p>
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<p><span>6 Stratos Place Cooma </span><span>– </span><span>A street record for a four-bedroom home sold for $597,000</span></p>
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<p><span>9 Tulong Avenue Cooma </span><span>– </span><span>A street record for a five-bedroom home sold for $499,000</span></p>
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McGrath pushes further into regional lifestyle areas with a new office in Cooma, NSW

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<p>Geoff Lucas has departed the McGrath agency which has seen a 30 percent increase in transaction volumes over the past year.</p>
<p>McGrath Limited advised that its chief executive officer, Geoff Lucas, had "chosen to resign" following the presentation of the FY2020 financial results.</p>
<p>It advised McGrath has secured to a financial 2020 net profit of $700,000, versus a net loss of $9.7 million in the prior year.</p>
<p>For the year revenue climbed 11 per cent to $91 million. No dividends were declared in financial 2020.</p>
<p>Chair Peter Lewis said the board had accepted Lucas’ resignation after "what has been a difficult two and a half years for the company.”</p>
<p>Edward Law has been appointed to the role after a 14-year career at ANZ, with his last position at the bank being Global Head of Institutional Property.</p>
<p>An expert in structured commercial real estate debt funding, Mr Law most recently has been an executive director of Newground Capital Partners and investment director of MaxCap Group.</p>
<p>It was February 2018 when the then fformer McGrath chief operating officer Geoff Lucas emerged to take the top job at real estate company.</p>
<p>He was previously at McGrath for a decade until just after the 2016 float after its former chief executive Cameron Judson left.</p>
<p>Lucas, who was overlooked for the chief executive role in 2016 in favour of Judson, then briefly joined artisan NSW bread maker and cafe group Sonoma as its chief operating officer.<br><br>The agency has no debt and $17.3 million cash. <br>It said it expects property prices to decline over coming months with government stimulus packages, mortgage deferrals, and record low interest rates cushioning the falls.</p>
<p>It also tipped continued softness in the rental market.</p>
<p>The group declined to provide specific financial guidance for financial 2021.</p>
<p>McGrath shares sit at 19 cents.</p>
<p>The agency reported the impacts of COVID became evident at the onset of the pandemic in mid-March where transaction volumes were lower for a six-week period due to restrictions around open houses and on-site auctions.<br>"However, since then we have seen a rebound in sales volumes as these restrictions were eased and eventually lifted," it advised.</p>
<p>"Notwithstanding the impact of COVID, we are pleased to advise that the extensive work we have undertaken over the past year has manifested in our financial results with the company showing a turnaround in excess of $10 million in our underlying operating results and also returning to net profitability.</p>
<p>"Whilst there had been some impact on listing volumes since the onset of COVID, home values have remained quite resilient through this time.</p>
<p>"In our Property Management (PM) business, we have seen some decline in rental values.</p>
<p>"The lower demand due to the weaker labour market has impacted rents."</p>
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Geoff Lucas departs McGrath estate agency

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<p>The real estate group, McGrath Estate Agents, has reaffirmed its commitment to the Illawarra region announcing the opening of a new office in Thirroul.</p>
<p>It is under the auspices of its longtime franchise partner, the McCarthy/Sutherland Shire &amp; Illawarra Group led by Patrick McCarthy.</p>
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<p>John McGrath said McCarthy and his team had established their south coast market presence over eighteen months ago.</p>
<p>"So opening in Thirroul will be a value-add to their community of buyers and sellers alike.</p>
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<p>“Thirroul itself offers low density beachside living that is increasingly appealing to both Sydneysiders wanting an escape as well as those who are attracted to his wonderful lifestyle, amenity, and its proximity to Sydney and the regional cities of Wollongong and Canberra,” Mr McGrath added.</p>
<p>Last December Jeremy Hodder, joined the group and will now be partnering with Vanessa Denison-Pender, former director of One Agency Thirroul, to open the new office.</p>
<p>Vanessa has been in the industry for 17 years and has been a principal in the area for eight years. </p>
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<p>Mr Hodder believes that the affordability of the area is particularly attractive and in reach of first home buyers and empty nesters as well as the WFH commuter.</p>
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<p>McGrath Thirroul speciality suburbs include Thirroul, Austinmer, Wombarra, East Corrimal, Coledale, Towradgi, and Bulli.</p>
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<p>“The out of area migration from Sydney is becoming increasingly popular," Vanessa said.</p>
<p>Thirroul is only 80kms from the south of Sydney and many more people are becoming comfortable with this commute to put themselves in a better financial position.</p>
<p>“Since the onset of COVID-19, we have experienced a large number of enquiries from Sydney not only for relocation opportunities but also for investment options, this includes weekenders and beach holiday homes”.</p>
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<p>With an average median house price for Thirroul is $1,225,000; Vanessa Denison-Pinder has achieved some sales results in the last six months including: </p>
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<p>11 The Grove Austinmer – A street record for a 4 bedroom home sold for $2,925,000</p>
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<p>21 The Grove Austinmer – A 3 bedroom home sold for $1,600,000</p>
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<p>28 The Waves Thirroul – A street record for a 5 bedroom home sold for $1,465,000</p>
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<p>686 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Coldale – A Beachfront 4 bedroom home sold for $2,410,000</p>
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<p>Recent sales by Jeremy in the last six months include: </p>
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<p>10a Toxteth Avenue, Austinmer – Brand new 3 Bedroom home sold for $2,350,000</p>
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<p>3 The Breakers, Thirroul – A 4 bedroom home sold for $2,325,000</p>
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<p>347-349 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Clifton – Set a new suburb record for Clifton sold for $3,375,000</p>
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McGrath expands Illawarra footprint with an office in Thirroul

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<p>A four-bedroom, five-bathroom house in Hunters Hill sold for $5.6 million through McGrath estate agents Tracey Dixon and Nicholas Cowdrill on July 3, 2020. </p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-hunters+hill-133731718" target="_blank">39 Barons Crescent property</a> is set in a blue ribbon address and showcases a glamorous façade. </p>
<p>The luxury residence features flexible living and gathering spaces, an entertainers' terrace with barbecue area, a gas heated swimming pool and sauna, a lush landscaped garden, a home theatre room, study, and cellar.</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/2020/7/3/21_Hunters%20Hill%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The Chef's kitchen showcases a marble bar, butler's pantry and cooler room. </p>
<p>The four deluxe bedrooms each have access to a designated bathroom. </p>
<p>The property was last sold for $1.3 million in 2011. </p>
<p>According to Realestate.com.au, 56 other four-bedroom houses in Hunters Hill have recently been sold. A four-bedroom, three-bathroom home on Ryde Road sold for $3.1 million on June 12, 2020. </p>
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Luxury Hunters Hill trophy home sold for $5.6 million

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<p>Leading residential real estate group, McGrath Estate Agents, today announced the opening of a new office in Mansfield Victoria.</p>
<p>McGrath Mansfield will be led Kate McDougall and Allana Neely who were formerly at The Agency Victoria.</p>
<p>McGrath Mansfield will service a large area from Swanpool in the North, to Eildon in the South, Merton in the West to Mount Buller in the East. Key suburbs will include Mansfield, Jamieson, Barjarg, Piries, Merrijig, Tolmie and Ancona.</p>
<p>McGrath moved into Albury/Wodonga earlier this year.</p>
<p>Founder John McGrath has reinforced his view that regional areas in close proximity to large towns and cities will be particularly desirable as people reassess their lifestyle options.</p>
<p>“I believe the ability to work remotely and commute as needed is now a more acceptable part our everyday life and will no doubt impact property choices for many outside the traditional FIFO worker," McGrath said.</p>
<p>"We have long earmarked the growth of regional areas that are attractive for their lifestyle and affordability and anticipate a further migration trend post COVID-19.”</p>
<p>Mansfield Shire, situated in North East Victoria, is in close proximity to Melbourne and other regional centres (Shepparton, Wangaratta and Benalla) and easily accessed – 2.5 hours and 1 hour respectively.</p>
<p>It is equally close to the Albury airport with a two-hour drive that offers accessibility for both the modern commuter or tourist, attracted to its nearby lakes, national parks and ski fields.</p>
<p>Christopher Mourd, head of franchise network for McGrath Estate Agents said the opening was part of the overall strategy to service our clients effectively as they often make a migrational shift around future lifestyle and property choices.</p>
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