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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McGrath Limited has told shareholders that subdued 2019 market conditions have continued to hit its financial profitability.
Trading conditions in March 2019 are currently below expectations, it noted.
The announcement came at 5pm Friday, after the market close when shares were trading at near record lows of 26 cents.
Listed at $2.10 in late 2015, the company share low was 25.5 cents earlier this month, a 52 week low. This morning trading saw shares open at 25 cents. They have dropped to 24 cents in this morning's session.
McGrath's weekend results saw 33 sales and 22 unsold, a total of 55 offerings.
The same weekend last year, albeit without the NSW election distraction, had 167 offerings.
In 2017 it was 140 offerings.
The ASX-listed real estate agency McGrath revealed a further dip in earnings as the company struggles with the housing market downturn. 
“We are disappointed that the real estate sector is facing continued headwinds, exacerbated by the elections, the tighter lending environment and weakening economic conditions affecting our sales business, however our Property Management business continues to perform well,” CEO Geoff Lucas said.
McGrath noted its strong balance sheet position at 28 February 2019, featuring no debt and $14.3m million in cash.
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“The significant reduction in transaction volumes in the real estate sector has continued, however we are seeing signs that sellers are now more prepared to meet the market and interest rates continue to be at historic lows”, he added.
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<a href="/news/mcgrath-estate-agents-reports-a-weak-start-to-2019-sales">McGrath stated last month</a> that the continuing subdued property market had impacted the company’s performance, noting that trading conditions since balance date were below expectations, with generally lower listing volumes and average sale prices.
"The subdued market conditions have continued in the second half with recent market data indicating national dwelling values are continuing to fall and transaction volumes remain more than 20% below the prior year in both Sydney and Melbourne markets. 
"The company also foreshadowed in February 2019 that underlying EBITDA for the second half of FY19 was expected to be impacted by ongoing difficult trading conditions, with external factors including NSW and Federal elections, potentially further impacting performance of the property market and McGrath."
Based on the unaudited management accounts year to date, the company has generated an underlying EBITDA loss for the eight months ended 28 February 2019 of $4.5 million, including the seasonally lower January and February months.
It had been reported the company had suffered a loss of $2 million in earnings before interest tax depreciation amortisation (EBITDA) over January and February.
"Market conditions remain difficult to forecast and if current trends continue, further losses in the final quarter are expected," Lucas noted.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

McGrath Estate Agents' dip in earnings worsens

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McGrath Estate Agents has recruited the Brisbane agent Roxanne Liu as it continues to bolster its Brisbane inner city team.
Kon Stathopoulos, head of sales for McGrath’s company owned offices, said she will join the existing team of 20 agents in the Paddington office.
He suggested it was "one of the most exciting property markets in the country".
“This is in line with our plan to restock our agent pool.”
Liu embarked on her real estate career in 2006, and within the first year proved to be the rising star at LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills.
From 2008 to 2015, Roxanne’s sales performance saw her join its Multi-Million Dollar Chapter.
In 2016, she achieved its highest accolade, Gold Medalist and 2nd Highest Achiever in Sales for LJ Hooker internationally.
Liu said that after 10 years working six days a week, she decided to take a gap year, reassess her career path and also focus on her teenage daughter.
She moved to Paddington to be closer to her daughter’s high school.
"For the past five years we have immersed ourselves in the lifestyle that Paddington offers and love its inner city sophistication," adding she was seeing an emerging trend of local Chinese families relocating to inner city areas of Brisbane.
"Inner city prestige property is very attractive to my Chinese clients and I see this as a great opportunity for vendors wishing to sell their home," she said.
"Naturally I will market to those on the south side of Brisbane who wish to relocate."
Liu will focus on servicing core suburbs of Paddington, Red Hill, and Kelvin Grove.
In the five years before her hiatus period, Roxanne Liu sold between $30 to $45 million in residential sales per year.
Charles Higgins, at McGrath Brisbane had worked previously with Roxanne Liu, at LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills. 
The McGrath Report 2019 labelled Brisbane: "as one of the world’s great cities. Liveability, affordability, scale and future economic prospects all suggest that Brisbanke is a market in which you can confidentally invest. The value gap between the East Coast capitals is compelling..."
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McGrath adds Roxanne Liu to its Paddington, Brisbane sales team 

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McGrath Limited today announced its FY19 first half results, with its revenue down 18 percent to $42.5 million.
The ASX listed company noted that trading to the end of January 2019 had been in line with the guidance provided last October.
However, trading over the first two weeks of February 2019 has been below those expectations, with generally lower listing volumes and lower average sale prices than expected.
The company post a statutory net loss after tax (NLAT) of $9.6 million.
McGrath company owned offices
1,367 sales $1.9 billion in 1H F19 
1,712 sales $2.6 billion in 1H FY18 
2,544 sales $3.5 billion in 1H FY17.
McGrath franchise offices
3,495 sales $3.1 billion in 1H FY19.
4,324 sales $3.9 billion in 1H FY18
4,222 sales $3.8 billion in 1H FY17. 
Total McGrath offices combined
4862 sales $5 billion 1H FY19
6036 sales $6.5 billion 1H FY18
6776 sales $7.3 billion 1H FY17
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As at 31 December 2018 the network comprised 27 company owned offices and 68 franchise offices with 552 agents operating within those offices. 
The total number of offices has remained consistent with June 2018 with 2 openings and 2 closures with 1 transfer from franchise services to company owned sales.
Total agents marginally decreased to 552 from June 18 (558) with reductions in the project marketing and franchise businesses offset by gains in the residential company owned sales segment. 
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Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/2/18/McGrath2.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge</a>.
<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/2019/2/18/McGrath2.jpg" alt="">
"While March is a seasonally higher listings month, the upcoming elections, together with the late timing of Easter and general market uncertainty reduces the current visibility into the third and fourth quarters.
"Should the balance of the second half continue to be impacted, the Company will update the market in accordance with its continuous disclosure obligations," the board advised shareholders adding ongoing difficult trading conditions were expected given external factors such as the NSW and Federal elections, potentially further impacting performance of the property market and McGrath.
The estate agency advised the continuing subdued property market conditions had impacted McGrath’s performance in the first six months of the 2019 financial year, resulting in an underlying EBITDA loss for the first half of $2.5 million.
This result comprises the previously reported first quarter loss of $1.9 million and a reduced second quarter loss of $600,000, although in line with guidance provided to the market last October.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/2/18/McGrath3.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge</a>.
<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/2019/2/18/McGrath3.jpg" alt="">
“Market conditions are expected to remain soft during 2019, however there have been some signs of optimism with buyers, especially owner-occupiers who are increasingly more active as prices return to more affordable levels in many areas," Geoff Lucas, CEO of McGrath, said.
“Economic factors are contributing to a significant reduction in transaction volumes," McGrath reported citing industry-wide settled sales for the real estate sector down nationally by 13.2%, and across the eastern Seaboard with Sydney down 20.3%, Melbourne down 22.3% and Brisbane down 11.3% on the 12 months to January 2019.
"Prices continue to weaken with national dwelling values to January 2019 down 5.6%, with Sydney down 9.7%, Melbourne down 8.3% and Brisbane in line with last year.”
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It noted a deterioration of higher value property prices in the market, and McGrath’s exposure to this segment, had adversely impacted its NSW result where there was a falling market sale share held by McGrath.
Its strongest growth in market. share was in Queensland.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/2/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
In February 2018 McGrath reported revenue for the six months to December 31, 2017 was $51.6 million, which was down 23 percent on the same period a year earlier.
McGrath reported a strong balance sheet at 31 December 2018 with no debt and $36.7 million in net assets with $16.5 million in cash.
The company noted that an additional $38 million in rent roll assets is not reflected on the balance sheet.
Its board remains focused on conserving cash for business reinvestment and will not pay an interim FY19 dividend.
McGrath’s dividend policy will be reinstated as soon as it is deemed prudent.
It reported its 27 company owned offices with 180 agents secured 1,367 property sales with a $1.9 billion value, over the six months to December 31, 2018.
The 68 franchise offices with 372 agents saw 3,495 property sales with a $3.1 billion value over the six months to December 31, 2018.
It compares with <a href="/news/mcgrath-estate-agents-get-850-000-additional-commission-windfall-to-stop-defections">the prior similar period </a>when company owned sales generating $2.6 billion in sales value from 1,712 sales for 1H FY18 and $3.5 billion and 2,544 sales in 1H FY17.
Its franchise services offices exchanged 4,324 sales during 1H FY18 with a sales value of $3.9 billion compared to 4,222 sales with a sales value of $3.8 billion in 1H FY17. 
With no trade this morning, the shares sit at 26 cents, a record low, with the company capitalised at $43 million.
It was in late 2015 when McGrath Holding Co Ltd (MEA ASX) filed a prospectus to sell a 53.7 per cent stake, or 72.1 million shares, for $2.10 each, giving it an envisaged market <a href="/news/real-estate-services-company-mcgrath-float-hits-asx-bourse-at-1-94-and-rising">capitalisation of $281 million</a>.
Some two decades in the making, the real estate services company commenced trading at $1.94, slightly below the public offering price at $2.10.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

McGrath Estate Agents reports a weak start to 2019 sales

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McGrath Estate Agents has announced high performing agent and area specialist Jamie Benjamin has joined its company owned sales team at McGrath Castle Hill.
The office services the Sydney’s Hills District, specialising in the key suburbs of North Rocks, Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Northmead and Winston Hills.
McGrath has also recruited Tamara Wikaruk who returns to the company after three years elsewhere, and will also focus on key suburbs within the area.
Kon Stathopoulous, head of sales for McGrath’s company owned offices, said it was "always heartening" to welcome back an agent to our company.
“Both Jamie and Tamara will join our existing McGrath Castle Hill team, joining David and Thomas Choy, Maree McCrorie, Elise Lau and Peter and Daniel Pokorny and the remainder of the existing team," he said. 
“This entire region continues to offer enormous potential for growth with a vibant professional community, business and infrastructure. It’s ‘Garden Shire’ appeals to families wishing to raise their children, often in a semi-rural environment and just 30 minutes to the CBD.
“In the last 12 months we have focused heavily on the north-west region, particularly the Hills District and the growth corridors around Rouse Hill that is part of the NSW North West Corridor. In the next few months, the north west will have its first heavy train line with the 52km Metro Northwest connecting Cherrybrook, Castle Hill, Bella Vista, Kellyville and Rouse Hill directly to the CBD.”
This is reinforced in the McGrath Report 2019 that with the rise of Western Sydney, everything is about to change and it means big things for the Western Sydney property market. 
“Billions of dollars in government investment, hundreds of thousands of new jobs and Sydney’s second international airport are set to transform this region and electrify one of our most affordable housing markets,” says John McGrath.
Benjamin (pictured above), a longtime Hills resident, started his real estate career in 2002, and has an impressive track record for outstanding sales success in his local market with extensive knowledge, negotiation and marketing skills.
He comes to McGrath from Harcourts where he achieved numerous accolades since 2010, including No 1 Sales Agent NSW (non business owner) – 2013 to 2018. He was also named in the national Top 5 for Harcourts Australia (2015 to 2018), clocking in No 2 &amp; No 3 in 2015 and 2016.
In discussing the current property market, Benjamin said that sales volumes in the area were down about 20-25% but on the flipside, he believed it provided a great opportunity to upgrade.
“Buyers are primarly locals and most come from a 5-10 km radius, where proximity to the school catchment zone is one of their highest priorities. There are excellent choices for education within the area for primary and secondary schooling, both public and private," Benjamin said. 
“My clients are a combination of first home buyers, families, upgraders and downsizers who are going through the life process.”
Wikaruk agrees and said she is seeing good buyer interest. 
“In the last three weeks of December and prior to returning to McGrath, I sold four properties ranging from $1.08 million to $1.35 million in Castle Hill and Baulkham Hills. To me this shows that people still want to transact... and they will for the right property.
“The last six months as an agent, it has been critical to help vendors understand the shift in the market, and ensure they feel armed with the relevant information. It is equally important for clients to understand my primary focus is to help them through the sales process and get them the best possible result.”
Wikaruk who grew up in the area has hit the ground running in her two weeks with four new listings in Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Cherrybrook and Northmead.
“I’m really excited about returning to McGrath. I’ve seen what else is out there, having worked for a couple of other agencies and nothing compares. Their diligence in marketing, compliance and support is outstanding and they are committed to providing the best tools possible to help their agents excel - and the ultimate winner will be my vendors and buyers.”
Jamie is an active member of the local community and sponsors several local school initiatives including the North Rocks Caroles by Candlelight, and the Christ The King Primary School Spring Fair and also their Sporting Teams.
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McGrath signals potential for growth in Hills District

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McGrath Estate Agents secured nine agents to join its McGrath Paddington, as it seeks to bolster its existing company-owned offices in Brisbane.
The new recruits are led by Daniel Goodwin (pictured right), until recently principal of LJ Hooker Paddington, will transition his entire sales team across to McGrath with more than 45 listings. Daniel has more 15 years experience in the Brisbane property market, and his combined team has over 60 years.
His agents will service key Brisbane suburbs that include Paddington, New Farm, Ashgrove, The Gap, Bardon and Teneriffe.
Daniel’s recent team sale include: 91 Moray Street, New Farm for $11 million; 4 Moore St, Milton for $1.415 million; 15 Evelyn St, Paddington for $1.310 million; and 35-41 Simpsons Road, Bardon for $3.1 million.
MrGrath boss Geoff Lucas said the move was in line with "our overall strategy to increase market share in our key markets with the recruitment of exceptional agents who have the desire to be part of a well-resourced and well capitalised company."
"Their wealth of knowledge and experience will augment our existing sales teams of 16 agents in Paddington, and 12 agents in New Farm where we have seen some strong sales results in the past few months.”
Such results by McGrath include 4602/71 Eagle Street, Brisbane for $4 million (Drew Davies – New Farm); 264 Ken Street, New Farm for above $3 million (Henry Hodge –New Farm); 32 Burdenkin Drive, Sinnamon Park for $2.5 million (Reuben Packer-Hill – Paddington); and 10 Charlane Avenue, Indooroopilly for $1.975,000 (Alex Jordan – Paddington).
McGrath Founder John McGrath (pictured middle) has long been an advocate of South East Queensland, and reinforced his enthusiasm for the Sunshine State in the recently released McGrath Report 2019.
“Liveability, affordability, scale and future economic prospects all suggest that Brisbane is a market which you can confidently invest,” said McGrath. 
“Brisbane is one of the world’s great cities and in my opinion the best market in Australia for short to medium term growth. I’ve been bullish on the area for some time, and whilst there has been some growth I believe there is a lot more to come over the next few years.”
Daniel Goodwin said that joining McGrath was a carefully considered decision and one endorsed by his team.
“We felt this was the right time to join McGrath, a company that has the respect of our agents as being the market leader in property marketing, customer service and industry training.
"With margins constantly under pressure, I believe the high level training and leadership by their entire management team, including John himself, is very important if agents are to adapt to a constantly changing and challenging market. Equally as a public company, the accountability and transparency is very appealing,” Goowin explained.
Kon Stathopoulos (pictured left), Head of Sales for McGrath’s company owned offices, said he was thrilled high performing agents wanted to step away from being traditional business owners with a desire to be part of a synergistic brand.”
Goodwin believes that the inner city unit market represents tremendous value compared to its interstate counter parts. 
“There are brand new 1 bedroom units available in the early $400,000 range and 2 bedrooms in $500,000 bracket in areas like Newstead and Fortitude Valley.
“These developments offer outstanding lifestyle features suited to Queensland’s enviable climate and have luxurious pools, rooftop entertainment areas, and private cinemas rooms.
“We are also finding a trend of upgrading from outer suburbs to places like The Gap, Ashgrove and Bardon within the 10km ring of the Brisbane CBD with many family purchasers seeking the catchments of a number of high quality and well regarded public and private schools whilst maintaining easy access and transport links to the CBD for working professionals.
“In the higher end space, interstate influence is certainly being felt in suburbs like New Farm and Paddington with value again being a prime driver of these opportunities.
"Equivalent high end property in Melbourne or Sydney could be up to double the price of that in Brisbane, and with new and planned infrastructure such as Brisbane airport’s new runway expansion, new Queens Wharf Casino under construction and Howard Smith Wharves development, cashed up buyers are recognising the value, lifestyle and connectivity that Brisbane now affords,” Goodwin said.
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McGrath announces major recruitment of agents in Brisbane

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The Agency have pushed back their voluntary suspension on the ASX possibly by another day.
The ASX-listed minnow initially advised on Tuesday, when they requested the voluntary suspension, that the acquisition of the ex-McGrath led Top Level Real Estate would be completed by 10 am today.
Their latest 10.04am update asked for the delay to Friday, unless they announce the finalisation earlier.
It has been suggested that insiders said all that all conditions precedent to the transaction occurring had been met and it would proceed.
The Agency went into a trading halt last Friday when the shares were trading at ¢14.
It's been delay after delay from The Agency, who initially took a 2017 option to acquire Top Level.
The Agency unveiled their business in January 2017.
The Agency recently lost <a href="/news/the-agency-inner-west-loses-mark-bowis-to-cobden-hayson-balmain">inner west Sydney sales specialist Mark Bowis</a> to Cobden &amp; Hayson.
It also lost Tahnee Barnes, the high profile intern, who <a href="/news/tahnee-barnes-the-million-dollar-intern-quits-the-agency">returned to recruitment</a>.
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The Agency continue delay of Top Level acquisition

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The former McGrath agent, Michael Coombs has confirmed to Nine Entertainment that he will join LJ Hooker's Avnu, a little-known, newly launched, technology-based full-service agency operating on the lower North Shore of Sydney.
The move was <a href="/news/what-is-lj-hookers-avnu-the-much-hyped-new-avenue-in-real-estate">foreshadowed last month</a> on Property Observer.
Avnu markets itself as allowing agents and their clients to manage their sales and properties in real time through enhanced digital online software.
Avnu is based in Neutral Bay, on the lower north shore, not far from the Mosman McGrath office which Coombs departed late last year.
Coombs anticipates the current "proptech" revolution in the residential market paved the way for how homes would be sold in the future.
Coombs <a href="/news/michael-coombs-departs-mcgrath">departed McGrath</a> late last year, after two years of speculation on his future amid a fractured franchise operating within the besieged McGrath Group.
LJ Hooker picked the lower north shore - where is has operated since the 1950s - to launch the Avnu brand with its rather odd name.
With fewer than 20 sales since its office launch, Coombs could be expected to possibly turbo-charge the office which has the branding: a new avenue in real estate.
Coombs joined the agency with $100 million in unsold listings.
Avnu took over the gap left by the LJ Hooker flop, <a href="/news/settl-lj-hookers-diy-hybrid-property-sales-platform-to-take-on-disruptors">Settl</a>, a thwarted part of LJ Hooker’s envisaged $100 million digital transformation.
Avnu, run by former Google, Twitter and LinkedIn execs, aims to reshape the homebuyer experience by smoothing the process where there's an estimated 200 steps involved in buying a property, between appraisal and settlement.
It’s a separate entity to the LJ Hooker franchise model and will have its own agents.
There will be a shop front despite its cloud-based technology approach.
With little fanfare, its chairman and local resident L. Janusz Hooker launch the app mid-last year.
“It’s your normal LJ Hooker, but it’s a place where technology is driving the process for both agents and consumers," said the grandson of the company’s founder, Sir Leslie Joseph Hooker.
Jason Chuck, the chief executive of LJ Hooker Avnu, was a former local founder and managing director of eHarmony and Houzz, and before that head of marketing for Google.
Christine Mikhael, the former general manager of sales and training at McGrath LNS, has been the director of sales and performance since March.
Mr Chuck said the LJ Hooker Avnu platform is the first of its kind and offers the "next frontier of customer service in what is a very fragmented industry".
"If someone was to start a real estate agency today, this is the model they would use. It's a clean slate for what is effectively an industry start-up for the next century," Mr Chuck told Nine Entertainment.
Its customers pay the usual industry-based fees for marketing and agent costs.
LJ Hooker Avnu's early recruits include Adrian Bridges.
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"I believe Avnu is a company that is going to pioneer the way real estate is done in over the next few years and I wanted to be apart of it," Coombs told Nine Entertainment.
While he anticipates the agency will be helpful to millennials, Coombs stresses he can still service clients who prefer a traditional method.
Coombs also advised the sales commission at Avnu will be at the standard market rate.
LJ Hooker says the LJ Hooker Avnu company is owned by private shareholders while Coombs will owns shares in its flagship office.
Coombs had previously held equity in the McGrath Mosman franchise but sold it back to the principals around 20 months ago.
He was among the few McGrath agents not to take shares when the McGrath Group floated in late 2015 on the ASX.
When he left school he did landscaping for a while.
The median Mosman sale in the last six months of 2018 was $1.58 million with Ray White indicating today its office secured an office median sale price $2.15 million higher than the market after a $25 million sale.
The three McGrath LNS offices had 350 sales in 2018 with 10 above $10 million.
The McGrath business acquired Laing &amp; Simmons Milsons Point last year, taking total properties under management to 2,600 properties, the largest rent roll on the lower north shore.
The Dean Mackie-led franchise lost its McGrath operations late last year when McGrath Estate Agents provided the stockmarket with an update regarding the April 2019 renewal of its Sydney Lower North Shore franchise office arrangement.
McGrath formally announced it had withdrawn its offer to extend the franchise agreement beyond April.
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“We have a clear plan to rejuvenate our presence in the region," McGrath chief, Geoff Lucas said.
The shareholders were told by Lucas the LNS profitability had "fallen below expectations in recent years.”
The Mackie-led team, who have had the LNS operation since 2005 and have privately disputed the portrayal by Lucas, quickly formalised plans to instead open a Di Jones office this year.
The former Lower North Shore McGrath franchisees Dean Mackie and Piers van Hamburg will do so without David Howe who is retiring from real estate, with a shift into restaurants mooted.
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Michael Coombs confirmed as LJ Hooker Avnu recruit

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The Agency's long anticipated acquisition of Top Level Real Estate, the agency set up by defecting McGrath agents at Bondi Beach, might finally be nearing a conclusion.
Today's trading halt announcement gives away no further details, but there will be a further announcement before Tuesday.
Shareholders had been expecting an update on the arrangement that would see the Western Australia based real estate agency incorporate the eastern suburbs agency.
Shares were trading a ¢1.4 before the halt at 11.30 this morning.
There had been a pause in trading 10 minutes earlier.
It seemed back in September that the finalisation of the mooted arrangement was imminent as <a href="/news/the-agency-secure-mcgrath-rebels-top-level-with-8-4-million-share-placement">The Agency announced a successful capital raise</a> having sought $10 million.
However in December they <a href="/news/mcgrath-rebels-acquisition-by-the-agency-pushed-back-into-2019">pushed back the acquisition until 2019</a>.
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The Agency in trading halt as Top Level acquisition may be nearing

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The former Lower North Shore McGrath franchisee Dean Mackie seems set to open a Di Jones office next year.
Mackie has been recruited by Di Jones chief executive Rob Ward.
Now with a network of five offices, Ward has long signalled plans to expand the group to 10 offices by 2021.
The Mackie-led franchise lost its McGrath operations last Friday when McGrath Estate Agents provided the stockmarket with an update regarding the April 2019 renewal of its Sydney Lower North Shore franchise office arrangement.
McGrath announced it had withdrawn its offer to extend the franchise agreement beyond April.
Mackie, who had headed the LNS operation since 2005, was in the news mid year when a Kirribilli waterfront property attracted a premium price.
A one-bedroom apartment on the market for the first time in more than 50 years sold for $125,000 above reserve at $1,875,000.
The 65-square-metre apartment sold to the final bidder to jump in, Dean Mackie, who bought the home shortly after inspecting it for the first time. 
Mackie addressed the 2009 AREC when he present the winning strategies he had implemented in growing his property management business from zero to 1000 properties in two years.
The McGrath franchise decision puts the future of one of the McGrath group's top performers, Michael Coombs in play with whispers that he's heading to LJ Hooker Avnu.
McGrath is currently considering the "optimum" structure for the continuation of the McGrath presence in the key markets of Mosman, Neutral Bay, Chatswood and Northbridge.
Their decision was couched as providing the opportunity of strengthening the profitability for the publicly listed estate agency.
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“We have a clear plan to rejuvenate our presence in the region," McGrath chief, Geoff Lucas said.
The shareholders were told by Lucas the LNS profitability had "fallen below expectations in recent years.”
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There has been no formal announcement by the Di Jones group which has been dealing with the loss of its own top seller in the eastern suburbs, <a href="/news/jane-schumann-quits-di-jones-for-r-h-double-bay">Jane Schumann this week to Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay.</a>
Mackie will step into an agency where its longtime Woollahra village-style origins had a women's influence.
Newspaper reports in the late 1990s suggested Di Jones was the doyenne of the female brigade in Sydney, at a time when ABS figures showed the percentage of female sales staff in real estate sat at around 40 per cent, way down on the US industry where eight in 10 are women.
The Di Jones office, with its French country style, avoided the hard edges often found in rival estate agencies.
She had her female staff dress to create an air of sober authority.
"I don't think the sexy look works very well," Jones explained.
"Everyone in our office dresses very business-like. I normally wear a suit because I think you need to look business-like to be taken seriously.
"I wouldn't like to think the girls in my office used their sexuality to sell a property but I'm sure some women do. But no, that's not our image at all." 
Its website traffic indicated almost twice as many women as men visiting <a href="http://www.dijones.com.au/"></a>with almost 80,000 total visits per month. 
The office has since been incorporated into the upper North Shore business of the former LJ Hooker Wahroonga agent Rob Ward in 2016.
Ward had founded LJ Hooker Wahroonga in 2003.
The landmark Woollahra office relocated from Queen Street this week to shop top premises on Paddington's Five Ways, with administrative staff now relocated to Wahroonga.
It now sits amid its team on the North Shore, the Northern Suburbs and in the NSW Southern Highlands, along with the lower North Shore seemingly from early next year.
 
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Dean Mackie set to take Di Jones office option after losing McGrath franchise

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The status of leading Mosman agent Michael Coombs has become slightly clearer just days after McGrath Estate Agents ended its the franchise agreement on the Lower North Shore.
The Coombs profile, along with four team members, came down from the McGrath group website this morning.
Coombs has quit the LNS franchise, but yet to announce what his 2019 plans involve. 
Property Observer wrote earlier this week the franchise decision by head office meant the future of one of the McGrath group's top performers was in play.
Coombs had previously held equity in the Mosman franchise but sold it back to the principals around 18 months ago.
It allowed him the freedom to quit the McGrath office just days after McGrath head office gave their advisory that they'd be ending their agreement with the franchise principals who are listed as Dean Mackie, Piers van Hamburg and David Howe. 
Coombs has always rated highly with his sales tally among the McGrath agents, although his sales tally hasn't been public since he pulled out of the REB Top 100 ratings two years ago. 
Coombs ranked 26 in 2016 with $276 million in property sales.
In 2015 with 13 year's experience, and three support staff his sales tally was $180 million. There was a $4 million average sale.
Coombs sold 41 properties in 2014 for a $140 million total.
McGrath is currently considering the "optimum" structure for the continuation of the McGrath presence in the key markets of Mosman, Neutral Bay, Chatswood and Northbridge.
The cost cutting decision was couched has providing the opportunity of strengthening the profitability for the publicly listed estate agency.
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McGrath opened its first office in Sydney’s Lower North Shore in 1996.
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“We have a clear plan to rejuvenate our presence in the region," McGrath chief, Geoff Lucas told shareholders last Friday.
The shareholders were told by Lucas the LNS profitability had "fallen below expectations in recent years.”
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