Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Mcgrath

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Agent Stefon Bertram has joined Belle Property Mosman as a partner in the business alongside long-serving principal Tim Foote. 
Bertram, who has been in real estate for more than a decade, built a name for himself at his previous agency, McGrath Ryde, ranking in the Top 100 agents in Australia for the past four years.
He currently ranked 17th in the country and ranked as one of McGrath’s top five agents, nation-wide.  
Belle Property Mosman, Tim Foote said Stefon was the first key partner in the Mosman-based business.
He took ownership of Belle Property Mosman in 2007.
"Our partnership with Stefon is our next stepping stone,” said Foote. 
Belle Property CEO, Peter Hanscomb said he is thrilled to welcome Stefon.
Bertram thanked his clients in an email from McGrath for their support since his start in the area in 2007.
"Over the years I have helped over 1000 locals with their property goals either buying or selling.
"I trust all my clients are in excellent hands assisted by my former business partners Michael Dowling and James Jin."
"When the opportunity came up to become a key partner at Belle Property Mosman lead by one of the most trusted names in real estate across the past 20 years being ‘Tim Foote’ this made a difficult decision feel right."
Bertram finished his time at McGrath in their Top 5 Agents Australia-wide. 
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Stefon Bertram joins Belle Property Mosman

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McGrath salaried staff have been asked to take a 30 percent pay cut for the next three months.
The request comes as its CEO Geoff Lucas and board have taken a 40 percent cut.
Estate agents are not salaried staff, rather contractors.
Lucas told his team this morning that over the last seven days, McGrath achieved an auction clearance rate of 31 percent, as many clients transferred scheduled auctions to private treaty.
"Notwithstanding this, our teams this week sold 190 homes valued at over $185 million," he advised.
"This is a remarkable performance given the uncertainty engulfing the world at the moment," he noted.
Its property management teams have been "enormously active" in serving more than 32,000 landlords and 45,000 tenants.
McGrath Limited formally provided its shareholders with an update in relation to the company’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic 
To mitigate the potential financial impact of COVID-19 on the business, and to ensure the company emerges from this crisis with the greatest strength, the Board and Management have implemented a range of cost saving measures, including:
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Temporary closure of certain company offices to reduce operating expenses. Agents have been redeployed to neighbouring offices, however noting our teams are respecting remote working conditions as required.
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Immediate cessation of all discretionary expenditure and non-essential spend.
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Minimisation of capital expenditure.
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Hiring freeze.
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40% reduction in remuneration of the CEO and the Board of Directors for May, June and July 2020.
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30% reduction in all salaries above $70,000 p.a. for those staff employed by McGrath Limited for May, June and July 2020.
 
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30 percent paycut for McGrath Agency salaried staff for three months

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McGrath Estate Agency have posted a revenue rise of 15 per cent over the first half of the 2020 financial year.
Chief executive Geoff Lucas said that, subject to economic conditions, they expect the turnaround of the business to continue throughout the year.
"[This] will manifest in the FY2020 results", Lucas said.
<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/2020/2/24/McGrath%20revenue.jpg" alt="">
McGrath's number of properties sold jumped from 4,862 in the first half 2019 to 5,768 in the first half 2020, up 19 per cent.
Lucas noted this was achieved "in a period where market listings have been consistently below the prior year." The average rise was four per cent across markets.
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Lucas still cited the "challenging property environment".
"As the market conditions improved in Q2 of FY20, we were well placed to capitalise on these positive tailwinds", Lucas said.
“We have seen a strong start to activity in January 2020 with an increased number of vendors who have gone to market early and benefitted from strong demand and continued rising values during the last quarter of CY2019.
"We believe this will have a positive impact on vendor sentiment for the second half."
McGrath noted that an uplift in market sentiment and strong clearance rates, notwithstanding the market’s lower listing numbers has contributed to the business performing significantly better in the first half of FY20. 
Over 32 of McGrath staff who had previously left the company have returned over the last 18 months.
McGrath shares opened trading at ¢30 on Monday. They rose to ¢34 in morning trading.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

McGrath revenue up 15 per cent, with "business turnaround expected to continue"

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McGrath Estate Agents have announced the opening of two new franchise offices in Mollymook and Ulladulla, led by sales agent Andrea Tucker.
The group has assigned two new franchise offices in the towns, partnering with previous independents Andrea Tucker and Rodney Tucker.
 “We are excited to further cement our position on the South Coast of NSW. Mollymook and Ulladulla both have deep connections to our core markets of Canberra and Sydney," said Christoper Mourd, the head of franchise at McGrath Estate Agents.
"It has long been considered a favoured region for holiday makers and sea changers, even more so since the opening of Bannisters Pavillion,” he added.
“After seven years of running a successful brand, I wanted to expand my business and cast a wider net,” said Andrea Tucker.
McGrath Mollymook and Ulladulla will service the area from Lake Canjola in the North, Yadboro in the West to Dolphin Point in the East down to Bawley Point in the South.
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McGrath's Mollymook and Ulladulla franchises to be lead by Andrea Tucker

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McGrath Limited have announced that prestige agent Rose Farina has joined McGrath, as the company acquired her rent roll and business (currently operating as Ray White Northbridge), located in Sydney’s Northbridge region of the Lower North Shore.
CEO Geoff Lucas (pictured middle) said attracting highly respected agents is a strong indicator of continued influence of the McGrath brand.
“Northbridge is an important component of the Lower North Shore market."
He said the acquisition was an "excellent example of prime residential and aspirational family precincts that are part of a continued focus for McGrath and its prominence in this desirable region of Sydney.”
It would supplement the new McGrath offices in Mosman, Willoughby and Castle Cove as well as the company’s well established Crows Nest operation.
Ms Farina (pictured right) has over 25 years experience in the real estate industry, beginning her career as an interior designer. She first honed her negotiating skills with well respected agent Deborah Kerr.
Rose has worked in the local area for 10 years, and together with agents Denise Woo and Jeff Woo, will continue their customer centric approach to selling homes under McGrath.
Outstanding sales in the past twelve months include a record $12.6 million achieved for a 4 bedroom waterfront at 11 Minimbah Road, Northbridge; and more recently the 5 bedroom home at 13 Marana Road that sold after one week for $3,070,000; and an off market $4,535,000 for 3 Weetalibah Road, Northbridge.
McGrath’s presence in the Northbridge area is serviced by existing McGrath agents Alon Beran and Harriet Halmarick and the addition of Rose, Jeff and Denise will reinforce the company’s commitment to the area.
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McGrath Northbridge will be located at 2/155 Sailors Bay Rd, Northbridge.
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Ray White Northbridge's Rose Farina joins McGrath as agency boosts rent roll

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McGrath Byron Bay sales agent Braden Walters has been appointed principal at Belle Property's Byron Bay and Lennox Head office.
He had spent nearly six years as an agent at McGrath.
Walters has over 18 years experience in the real estate industry.
He was selected as a finalist for the best residential agent by the REINSW in 2019.
Walters has already secured three sales in his new gig, the biggest a five bedroom Lennox Head home that sold for $1.34 million.
He has eight properties for sale across the district.
 
 
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Braden Walters quits McGrath Byron Bay for Belle

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Estate agent Adrian Bo's career with McGrath, which began in 1994, has ended amid a disputed sexual harassment claim.
It was 30 years ago that he joined the real estate industry after briefly working at the Rivkin stockbroking firm on graduating from school.
He started in residential leasing.
He was part of the original foundation McGrath team, which made it harder for the agent to be told to go.
The chief of the luckless McGrath agency, Geoff Lucas announced on Tuesday evening that Bo’s contract had been terminated.
Lucas has since warned staff not to speak to the media on the matter in a leaked internal memo.
“If you are approached by any external party seeking comment or information with respect to the investigation, you are directed to provide no comment.
“If any employee provides comment in such circumstances it may result in disciplinary action.”
The memo also advised staff that any conversations about the investigation, the recommendations or findings are “unhelpful and hinder our ability to move forward as an organisation”.
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<div id="adspot-1x1_300x250-pos-2" class="ad">At the centre of the latest allegation was a disputed claim Bo recently asked a junior colleague “how many c–ks he had sucked?”</div>
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<div class="ad">The Daily Telegraph which broke the story last month had his departure as front page news today.</div>
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Bo took annual leave while the investigation by an HR consultant and an external lawyer was conducted.
Company founder John McGrath stepped into the role of head of sales as Bo and McGrath had briefly shared the role since Kon Stathopoulos departed in June.
The result of inquiry prompted the publicly listed board to terminate Bo’s contract late on Tuesday, effective immediately.
“The company takes its responsibilities of promoting inclusion and workplace safety seriously and will not tolerate breaches of its code of conduct by its contractors or staff members. I am personally committed to ensuring we have an environment that treats all workplace participants fairly and with respect,” Mr Lucas said in a brief 6pm statement.
In the internal email to McGrath staff, Lucas said: “I understand this process has been stressful for a number of people, and it has taken some time to arrive at this conclusion.
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">“However it has been important to protect the rights of all parties involved and critical that we followed an independent process complying with our code of conduct and the law.</div>
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<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">“Behaviours such as bullying, harassment and unlawful discrimination are not acceptable at any time. I also want to take this opportunity to reassure you that we have robust HR processes in place to ensure you are provided with best and most supportive environment in which to undertake your work and career development."</div>
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<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">Bo sold thousands of apartments and homes during his McGrath career, with his celebrity clients having included Jennifer Hawkins and Jake Wall, Lisa Ho, Mike Willesee and Allyson Langdon, Brett Lee, David Warner and Candice Falzon and Richard Roxburgh and Silvia Colloca.</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">He created a database of all property owners he came across (excluding active buyers) which stood at 12,000 people in 2012, typically doing 10 sales a month from Bondi to Maroubra.</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">He was earning around $2 million a year in gross commissions at the time, which was well above the $60,000 average.</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">Bo has sold over $3.7 billion in gross volume of real estate and for 20 consecutive years has maintained a minimum of 100 transactions most recently generating $2.5 million to $3 million in gross commission income per annum.</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">In the past year Bo secured 110 sales totalling $145 million. 
</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">Bo promoted himself as having "invaluable experience in residential and commercial sales, project marketing and property management."</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">But he once said "I see myself as a glorified telemarketer."</div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1"> </div>
<div class="fe-co-email-widget" data-febuild-id="fe-co-email-widget_1">He added the best agents were "storytellers" - "not fictitious but real life situations."</div>
</div>
Bo had been hand-picked and personally trained by John McGrath to become recognised as "one of Australasia’s top agents, auctioneers, real estate trainers and public speakers."
He had completed his MBA in 2013, with reputed hopes to run the McGrath empire at one point, only to see Geoff Lucas return to the struggling listed agency in February last year.
Bo had become co-head of sales when Kon Stathopoulos departed in June.
Stathopoulos became head of company sales in 2016 when McGrath Limited lost its longtime head of sales, Matt Lahood to The Agency.
The Lahood defection was among many that rocked the group with John McGrath, the founder and then executive director, noting he had <a href="/news/john-mcgrath-attacks-unsavoury-defecting-agents-and-pins-hope-on-new-real-estate-app">"zero respect for any of them."</a>
The McGrath agency recently left its long-time head office in Edgecliff in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
It has headed to inner-city Pyrmont, although it will take a presence in Double Bay to quell concerns that it could lose clients and disaffected agents.
The agency had already reduced the Edgecliff office size it required on New South Head Road last year in the wake of a high level of departures. 
The latest departure from the group was in its NSW Northern Rivers agency with <a href="/news/braden-walters-quits-mcgrath-byron-bay-for-belle">Braden Walters now at Belle Byron Bay/Lennox Head</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Adrian Bo departs McGrath after 25 years

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The listing volumes of homes for sale remained subdued, which restricted the potential for any big lift in earnings at the publicly listed McGrath estate agency.
And its chief executive Geoff Lucas cautioned that the recent major capital city price jump was likely not sustainable on an annualised basis.
While the three months to October saw property prices in the Sydney and Melbourne metropolitan markets increase by 5 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively, Lucas advised he did "not expect this rate of growth to continue.”
He told shareholders the business was recovering.
“While recent above reserve prices, increased auction clearance rates and buyer engagement levels have all improved sentiment, all of which might improve listing levels, we do not see evidence yet of any sustainable improvement,” he said.
McGrath has been busy buying rent rolls.
The company’s rent roll is conservatively valued at $49.4 million, and its Oxygen trailing commission at $2.6 million, while the company has only recognised $11.1m on its balance sheet.
The Australian reported funds managers at the meeting pointed to the value in the company’s rent rolls and the potential for it to grow in future.
Lucas told shareholders at yesterday's annual general meeting that October new listings in Sydney and Melbourne were respectively 6.6 per cent and 15.8 per cent lower than prior year numbers.
<div id="endOfArticle" class="_3PsH9">
"It is volumes however that are contributing to most of the challenges in the industry and whilst we have seen some recent improvements, new listings for the industry are still down on the prior year," Mr Lucas said.
"While recent above reserve prices, increased auction clearance rates and buyer engagement levels have all improved sentiment, all of which might improve listing levels, we do not see evidence yet of any sustainable improvement."
The company said it expected to post earnings before interest tax depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of between $1 to $1.5 million in the first half of the year, a lift from a $10.1 million EBITDA loss for the whole of 2019.
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Lucas would not be drawn into offering any forecast statutory net profit, which has been in the red over the past two years. 
<div id="endOfArticle" class="_3PsH9">
The company was confident however it could maintain an upward momentum but cautioned the recovery would not be swift.
"We’re pleased to advise that there are some promising signs starting to come through in the market," chief executive Geoff Lucas said.
The Chinese developer Aqualand lifted its investment in the ASX listed McGrath estate agency from 15 per cent to 18.5 per cent last month.
The increase in its stake followed Aqualand’s acquisition of an <a href="/news/mcgrath-secure-10-7-million-strategic-investment-from-aqualand">initial 15 per cent in McGrath last year</a>. 
Aqualand will remain McGrath’s second largest shareholder, behind John McGrath's own 22 percent stake.
</div>
The annual general meeting came amid sex harassment allegations that came to light last week in the Daily Telegraph.
Shareholders fear it could impede the company's road to recovery, as it involves its head of sales, Adrian Bo who denies any misdoing.
Mr Lucas said investigations were still ongoing.
John McGrath has been drafted in as the temporary head of the McGrath sales team in the leave of absence being taken Adrian Bo.
The role of company sales team leader was shared by Mr Bo and Mr McGrath following <a href="/news/kon-stathopoulos-departs-mcgrath-estate-agents">the departure in June of Kon Stathopoulos</a>.
The company's share price closed at 30¢ on Thursday, up 1¢ from Wednesday.
Its debut IPO price in 2016 was $2.10, and it <a href="/news/mcgrath-estate-agents-trading-at-all-time-low-of-19-5-cents">traded at an all time low in June</a>.
</div>
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Cautious McGrath see emerging prospect of recovery in earnings

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McGrath Northern Rivers Group Gold Coast Group have announced that local real estate agent Josh Willatt will join its Palm Beach operation.
He will become joint franchise partner at McGrath Palm Beach along with existing McGrath agents Andy Hogarth and Billy Jaz.
This will be in conjunction with Ian Mills.
David Mills, at McGrath’s Northern Rivers operation expressed excitement for the incoming partners of the business.
"I've worked with Andy, Ian and Billy since McGrath was first opened on the Gold Coast and I'm thrilled for them to continue their career growth as principals.
"They are already senior agents with superior local knowledge and natural leaders within our business, and I look forward to continuing to work with them as they grow their footprint on the Southern Gold Coast,” Mr Mills said.
Andy Hogarth, a McGrath agent of 10 years will assume the role of principal for the McGrath Palm Beach.
He is confident about the local market saying “buyer confidence is back. From the first Saturday following the federal election the conversations with buyers has completely changed. We are now back to receiving multiple offers on properties and buyer engagement has lifted substantially.”
Andy has transacted some good sales over last 18 months, including that of 10 Flores Avenue, Palm Beach selling for $1,105,000 at auction with eight registered bidders. He also negotiated the sale of 59 Tahiti Avenue, Palm Beach for $1,021,000 prior to its auction, as well as several off-market sales that tipped the $1 million barrier.
“The finality of both the election and royal commission are two factors that have positively influenced the marketplace. In addition, the trend of interstate buyers is growing quickly and is supported by all-time low interest rates,” said Billy Jaz, a McGrath agent for over seven years.
Billy sold 266 Nineteenth Avenue, Elanora to a retired Sydney buyer for $1,120,000 which is the top end of the Elanora market in August of this year.
Andy and Billy will be joined by Josh Willatt, who was the top performing agent at Ray White Robina for the past five years. His sales include achieving a street record sale price at 2 Rudd Street, Burleigh Heads for $1,650,000; and most recently 20 Pinnancle Court, Robina for $1,095,000.
“Buyer confidence is at an all-time high across majority of price sectors on the Gold Coast. Downsizers are having the biggest impact on the current market as they gain more confidence that they can again achieve higher prices more aligned to that of 2017-2018," said Mr Willatt.
Mr Willatt also reported that first home buyers are coming back to the marketplace, with the historically low interest rates.
"The increased interest from buyers has seen my average days on market decrease from 51 days pre-election to less than 19 days over the past quarter."
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Josh Willatt joins McGrath Gold Coast Palm Beach partnership  

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The Chinese developer Aqualand has lifted its investment in the ASX listed McGrath estate agency from 15 per cent to 18.5 per cent.
The increase in its stake follows Aqualand’s acquisition of an <a href="/news/mcgrath-secure-10-7-million-strategic-investment-from-aqualand">initial 15 per cent in McGrath last year</a>. 
Aqualand will remain McGrath’s second largest shareholder, behind John McGrath's own 22 percent stake.
The acquisition of shares by Aqualand follows a strategic relationship being struck with McGrath last year to explore opportunities for both groups to work more closely together on future prestige project marketing opportunities.
McGrath CEO Geoff Lucas said Aqualand further committed to McGrath "with the belief that our transformation plan is gaining traction, while also looking to take advantage of any strategic opportunities.”
“AL Capital and the Aqualand Group have great confidence in McGrath," Wayne Mo, CEO of Aqualand Group’s investment arm AL Capital said.
There have not been any apartment projects being marketed by McGrath. McGrath shares closed yesterday at $0.215.
Aqualand bought its initial shares when the shares were trading at around $0.425 per share.
Recently Aqualand Australia finally sold its last apartment in Upper North Shore project The Heysen, Turramurra which had two apartments remaining for sale last November. 
Last month Aqualand <a href="/news/oxford-properties-sells-barangaroo-central-to-aqualand">secured the development stake</a> of Barangaroo Central from Oxford Properties.
 
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