Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Merger

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The online digital home loan platform Lendi and Aussie Home Loans have announced they have entered into an agreement to merge.

It has been mooted for a month.

The financial press had advised Aussie has 200 outlets and a $70 billion loan book that makes $50 million a year profit while Lendi is a loss maker, recently advising a $37 million loss with an $8 billion book.

Aussie has around 1000 brokers, and Lendi has around 200.

They intend for the proposed merger to "create a market leader in the Australian home loan market."

Lendi shareholders will hold the majority shareholding of 55 percent in the merged business, while Aussie’s current owner, CBA, will hold a 45 percent shareholding.

It will continue to provide funding for the Aussie Select branded home loan product.

The CBA chief executive officer, Matt Comyn said the combined business will have a stronger platform to offer "enhanced digital capabilities for Aussie brokers and a superior experience for customers."

Lendi CEO and co-founder David Hyman suggested it was an "exceptional opportunity" to drive the growth and digitisation of the two companies, both of which had "led disruptive change" in the Australian home loan market. 

Aussie CEO James Symond suggested the merger was another important step in the almost 29-year evolution of Aussie as Australia’s leading retail mortgage broker.

"We are currently posting record lending volumes through our network of over 970 brokers and over 210 stores and, by underpinning Lendi’s technology across our national broker network, we will further accelerate this growth and momentum.”

Completion of the transaction is subject to ACCC approval and other customary conditions.

It is expected to occur by mid calendar year 2021.
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The Commonwealth Bank has announced the merger of its Aussie Home Loans business with online platform Lendi

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Aussie Home Loans merges with Lendi

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Melbourne-based La Trobe Financial, one of the largest non-bank lenders in the country, has struck a deal with Blackstone, a New York-based private equity company.
Blackstone has taken an 80% stake in the privately-owned firm for an undisclosed sum. 
Chief executive Greg O'Neill will retain 20% ownership and continue in his role at the 65 year old lending institution.
O'Neill said the opportunity for La Trobe to partner with Blackstone was the perfect fit for staff, customers and the business.
"The specialist credit space is experiencing a defining period of change and growth around the world right now and it is critical that we continue to build on our strong capital position, expand our networks and draw on global best practice," he said.
Australian Broker noted La Trobe Financial manages investment mandates in excess of A$13 billion, including a retail Credit Fund of almost $2 billion and over $1 billion of public RMBS bonds issued.
Currently La Trobe has over 200 staff with offices in Melbourne, Sydney, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
The AFR says Australia's $1.7 trillion mortgage market has become a hotspot for global private equity titans with more buyout funds tipped to follow Blackstone and KKR's recent forays into the shadow banking sector. 
The La Trobe deal follows the $675 million takeover of listed non-bank lender Pepper by KKR earlier this month.  
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Blackstone takes on La Trobe Financial in mortgage market buyout

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<div>Ferguson Property Agents in Cammeray is merging with Ray White Lower North Shore.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Justin Ferguson and his wife Sally have been operating in Cammeray for 20 years and will rebrand their office to Ray White Ferguson (Cammeray) in February.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>After starting his career as a stock and station agent more than 30 years ago, Ferguson founded his own agency in 1998 and was widely known as “the Cammeray specialist" for his unrivaled local knowledge.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Ferguson said the time was right to now “alter our strategy to remain relevant and grow our market share”.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Our journey from First National to a boutique agency was driven by our vision to service the market and gain dominant market share. We can now use the platform we created to build a stronger business with the Ray White group,” Mr Ferguson said. 
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Our main objective is to provide certainty as well as career opportunities for our staff by creating a sustainable business underpinned by a powerful household name.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Ray White Lower North Shore directors Richard Harding and Geoff Smith said the decision to merge was simple.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“We are a family owned business, and so is Justin Ferguson and so are the Whites. Justin is a local icon and Dan White has been instrumental in this alliance as it will be of benefit to us all,” the pair said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“We aim to be the vendor’s choice in every market and there is no doubt that this will create a stronger footprint for in the Cammeray community.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“We see a lot of growth potential in this area and we are excited to work with Justin and Sally Ferguson and their daughter Sophie."</div>
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Ferguson Property Agents in Cammeray to join Ray White

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Prince Hotels, a subsidiary of Seibu Holdings will acquire 100 percent of Staywell Hospitality Group in what has been described as Australia’s largest hotel merger and acquisition so far this year. 
The transaction value is approximately $50 million. The deal sees Prince Hotels adding 30 hotels, 12 in Australia, to its portfolio. 
Prince Hotels owns and operates 49 hotels – 42 of them in Japan.
Michael Simpson and Vasso Zographou from Savills Hotels led the transaction team, supported by Sheriden Bacon and Tom Shadbolt.
Vasso Zographou, Director of Hotels for Savills Australia said the opportunity to acquire Staywell which has hotel operations spanning seven countries attracted Prince Hotels Inc. The current phase of Staywell’s evolution had reached a stage where further capital will assist in funding future expansion and growth.
Michael Simpson, Managing Director of Hotels for Savills Australia said the transaction is a great example of Australian entrepreneurialism creating a highly attractive global management platform.
“The acquisition of the platform enables Prince Hotels Inc. to fast track its global growth through immediate presence in a range of international markets” he said.  
The Staywell Hospitality Group operates hotels under the Park Regis and Leisure Inn brands. It also operates a number of properties internationally in Singapore, Indonesia, India, Dubai and Birmingham.
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Largest hotel M&A in 2017

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Two real estate agencies in North Sydney are merging to form one office under the Richardson &amp; Wrench brand.
From today, 1 December, Richardson &amp; Wrench North Sydney will merge with First National North Sydney, making it the largest office of its type in North Sydney.
As well as residential and commercial sales, management and leasing, the merged R&amp;W North Sydney office will have its own project marketing division to be known as R&amp;W Ben Boyd Project Marketing and Developments and R&amp;W Hotels and Leisure, specialising in sales of hotels, motels, caravan parks and boarding house accommodation.
The office will operate under the leadership of principal Mark Smith and managing director Tim O’Halloran.
Mark Smith, who has been principal of First National North Sydney since 2003, said the merger had been instigated by the NSW Government’s demolition of the R&amp;W North Sydney office to make way for construction of the Victoria Cross station on the new Sydney Metro train line.
The business started in 1953 when Peter Hill first opened his office on Pacific Highway, the current location of the Northpoint Tower. 
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Richardson & Wrench North Sydney merges with First National

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Hospitality veterans Bruce Solomon and Matt Moran are merging their Solotel and MorSol businesses under the Solotel brand, bringing under one umbrella some of Australia’s leading bars and restaurants, according to a media report.
The two businesses will merge under the Solotel title at the start of the new financial year, said a report in hoteling industry news website www.theshout.com.au, though it didn't mention financial details of the deal.
Currently, Solotel has a portfolio of 20 hospitality venues in Sydney and Brisbane, including the Opera Bar and The Sheaf hotel; while MorSol operates some of the best restaurants in Australia, including the two-hatted ARIA Sydney, ARIA Brisbane, CHISWICK Woollahra and CHISWICK at the Gallery.
Following the merger, Matt Moran will continue to manage the ARIA and CHISWICK restaurants – the flagship restaurants of the business. 
After the deal, Solotel's staff will number around 1500. 
Moran said the merger would open up new opportunities for the staff.
“It’s going to give lots of opportunities to lots of people. If a young chef starts in a pub one day he might have [the] ambition to be in a fine dining restaurant and vice versa – I might have a sous chef in ARIA who might want to run his own pub,” he said.
Solomon and Moran's business partnership goes back to 2000 when Solomon turned the Paddington Inn into a gastropub, with a focus on the food offering. 
Both Solomon and Moran believe that by merging the businesses, they are creating one of the most dynamic hospitality groups in the country, the report added.
The Paddington Inn will be relaunched in August, opening as a new restaurant and front bar, followed by the renovation of The Edinburgh Castle Hotel in Sydney’s CBD later this year.
Solotel have also won the bid for The Australian Hotel in the new Central Park residential and entertainment precinct on the CBD’s fringe. Both The Australian Hotel and Solotel’s three-level prestige venue in Sydney's Barangaroo will open in 2018. The Barangaroo venue will feature a bar on the ground floor, a restaurant on the first floor and a rooftop bar.
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Solotel and MorSol to merge under Solotel brand

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The Australian Shareholders’ Association has weighed in on the battle for the $2.5 billion Investa Office Fund, ahead of a vote on Friday on a merger proposal by Dexus Property Group, reported The Australian.
The association has criticised the issue of misleading documents by the owner of IOF’s manager in the lead-up to the meeting.
The Takeovers Panel on Friday ruled the documents sent out by the manager opposing the merger, which is favoured by IOF’s independent directors, were unclear, misleading and incomplete and ordered them to be reissued, as well as the removal of an alternative proxy form, said the report.
“It is disturbing that retail unitholders have been sent inadequate information, including a misleading proxy form, and just two days before proxies close will receive more information for them to consider," Diana D’Ambra, chairman of ASA, was quoted as saying by the newspaper.
“We urge IOF retail unitholders to ensure they express their views by voting.”
Fresh disclosures by Investa managing director and chief executive, Jonathan Callaghan, noted a declaration of unacceptable circumstances and orders made by the panel.
The consequences of a loss of IOF’s management, including losing close to $20 million of fees annually, if the Dexus proposal goes ahead, have now been disclosed.
The Dexus proposal still faces a hurdle.
The panel has not prevented Morgan Stanley Real Estate from voting its 8.9 per cent stake in IOF, most likely against the merger.
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<div>On Monday morning, DEXUS Funds Management responded to the Takeovers Panel declaration of unacceptable circumstances in relation to the affairs of Investa Office Fund.</div>
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The Panel's declaration is in response to an application to the Panel made by DEXUS RE on March 21, 2016.
"The Panel‟s declaration of unacceptable circumstances in relation to the matters described vindicates the action taken by DEXUS.
"We note the Panel decided not to interfere with the voting rights attached to IOF units with regard to the Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing entities.
"DEXUS RE encourages all IOF Unitholders to express their opinion on the DEXUS Proposal at the forthcoming meeting of IOF Unitholders at 10.00am, Friday 15 April, 2016." 
Meanwhile, the chances of a consortium including Mirvac, Blackstone and China Investment Corporation (CIC) making a bid for Investa Office Fund appears to be all but dead in the water, according to the Australian Financial Review.
That would leaves Dexus Property Group best placed to win the $3.5 billion portfolio at a shareholder vote on Friday. 
But the AFR reported, citing sources, that DEXUS is in talks with some of the consortium to sell some assets. 
In a similar move, when it bought Commonwealth Property Fund back in 2014, Dexus did a deal in which it sold rival bidder GPT GROUP a $1.2 billion "consolation prize" of several assets to effectively take GPT out of the race. The properties were acquired at valuation. 
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Dexus responds to Takeovers Panel declaration

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Robert Ward has taken the helm as chief executive officer of the newly-merged Di Jones Real Estate and LJ Hooker Wahroonga, effective 2 April.
Mr Ward has worked at LJ Hooker Wahroonga between January 2003 and March 2016.
Following his appointment he said LJ Hooker is a great brand, but the direction and change I wanted to take the business in, was not aligned with the LJ Hooker strategy. 
"LJ Hooker is a cottage industry," he said. 
"By obtaining a brand that is independently owned, we eliminate the middle layer of the franchise owner allowing us to implement growth strategies far greater than possible within a franchise network."
Q&amp;A With Robert Ward – CEO Di Jones Real Estate 
Age: 33 Years Old
How did you get started in Real Estate?
I started my real estate career in 2001 and got my certificate whilst at Richardson and Wrench – Turramurra. After a very positive start to my career, I purchased the asset PRD Nationwide Wahroonga in 2003 – I was only 21 at the time and the Youngest Franchise Owner in Australia (REI Magazine). The franchise changed to LJ Hooker in 2005 – 2015.
During that time I was awarded ‘Best Young Talent in LJ Hooker internationally 2007; 2011 Franchise Owner of the Year. 2013-15 Top 3 in the network and the LH Hooker Office - Top 5 in the Network
I grew up with 3 sisters. My mum was a university lecturer and my father was in I.T. Unlike my sister’s, I didn’t do very well in school at all. My mum used to cry every time she found out I skipped school because she was worried about where I was headed. However I found myself in real estate and in doing so, found my passion, which in turn created success.
Why do you think you experienced such rapid success?
I think it was just probably a combination of confidence and naiveté.
As a young leader – how do you motivate people?
Lead from front and set a good example. Trust the direction that your staff chose to head in. Understand the Why! It doesn’t matter whether they are 25, 40 or 60 years old, everyone works for a different reason. Not everybody is motivated entirely by money. It is important to understand why people work and when you do this, you can effectively lead them to achieving whatever it is that motivates them.
Aside from an expanded footprint, how will your appointment as CEO benefit DI Jones and what can we expect to see from the brand?
What we bring to the table is an understanding of technology and todays customer. We empower the consumer, our agents and our clients and their listed properties through better technology – it enables us to provide a better service and maximize reach whilst keeping our sales team happy. I always say I in business I have two types of clients - the sales team/our agents who need support, tools and information; and external clients. We look after them by providing unparalleled service to them which in turn keeps them happy leaving us with exceptional staff and client retention.
Why did you decide to move on from LJ Hooker?
LJ Hooker is a great brand, but the direction and change I wanted to take the business in, was not aligned with the LJ Hooker strategy. LJ Hooker is a cottage industry. By obtaining a brand that is independently owned, we eliminate the middle layer of the franchise owner allowing us to implement growth strategies far greater than possible within a franchise network.
Why did you approach Di Jones?
It was quite simply the values, history, reputation and the people. We wanted a sexy brand, which is attractive to both potential clients and employees whilst standing for the right values. Di Jones came with 25 years of sexy and is extremely well known with a great reputation and values.
LJ Hooker is a very well respected brand globally and is losing one of its top performing offices in the network, how do the staff feel about the merger and what feedback have you had so far from existing clients and colleagues?
Our clients and staff in the office have been 110 percent on board since announcement. Everybody worries about whether their clients and staff will stick with them or will they be fearful when they are subjected to change, as people are naturally anxious about change. However we have such a great culture and team, that there has been no doubt at all about this merger from our staff and clients and they support the direction the business is headed in. People generally rely on experiences from the past, and if that is positive, they generally trust the plans for the future. In fact many of our clients have asked why it took us so long. Brand is about the people not the colours.
Are there aggressive growth plans in place outside of Sydney – if so what are they?
Growth strategies are about creating efficiencies, migration patterns, demographics, key areas where clients exist and offering a centralized service via a company owned model. It is a fairly targeted approach and one that will result in providing a better service to the existing and potential client base.
What is the feeling about Di Jones on the North Shore? Are they familiar with the brand – how do you see the transition from both a client and employee point of view?
The merger announcement has been extremely well received. The Di Jones client demographic is very similar in our key areas. It has actually been very interesting and informative educating our market of the changes. Many of our clients have asked in the past if we could help them with their properties in other suburbs, however now the requests are far more pronounced. We have been receiving an influx of requests on a weekly basis and this merger has been extremely well received.
The traditional franchise real estate model has created a stereotype that you can only operate in your suburb, which in turn can lead to pigeonholing. The second you drop the suburb, you open up your opportunities to a wider market. We have far greater reach as a whole, but also in the eyes of our existing and potential clients.
Personal Life
Rob is married and has three sons.
 
Di Jones Real Estate announced the merger with LJ Hooker Wahroonga February 2016.
 
 
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Robert Ward takes helm following Di Jones LJ Hooker Wahroonga merger

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Technology investment company Disruptive Investment Group Limited has decided to increase its stake in off-the-plan property marketplace iBuyNew.com.au to 100% for $5.9 million. 
DVI owns a 50% stake in Find Solutions Australia Pty Ltd (FSA), the owner of iBuyNew, with an option to acquire the remaining 50% in 2019.
DVI's Board recently announced that DVI has entered into a binding term sheet (Term Sheet) to accelerate the exercise of this option to acquire the remaining stake. 
The FSA stake of $5.9 million (comprising both cash and DVI stock) implies an enterprise value of $11.8 million for <a href="https://www.ibuynew.com.au/" target="_blank">iBuyNew</a> (IBN). Additionally, the vendors of FSA have warranted that IBN has at least $2 million in deferred cash income comprising expected commissions to be paid on settlement of various contracted property purchases.
The deal is expected to be completed before July this year subject to approval from shareholders.
iBuyNew connects prospective buyers of property in Australia with more than 2,700 new and Off The Plan (OTP) properties.
Founder and CEO Mark Mendel will continue to lead the business and has agreed to accept nearly 75% of the purchase price ($4.4m) in DVI scrip. The cash of $1.5 million will be paid in three tranches.
He will also join the DVI board as an executive director subject to shareholder approval. 
“We are very pleased to have entered into this binding Term Sheet. iBuyNew is a technology business disrupting a huge industry in a remarkable way, and Mark Mendel has proven to be a strong and capable operator. Revenue is increasing rapidly, the business is delivering earnings, and we have a huge market to conquer,” said Dr Adir Shiffman, non-executive director and chairman. 
DVI will issue 245.75 million shares at 1.8c per share which will be subject to escrow restrictions for 24 months post completion.
Andrew Jensen, currently a non-executive director of DVI, will become an executive director of DVI.
 Mark Mendel is founder and chief executive officer of iBuyNew, recently wrote there’s nothing worse than paying a substantial amount of money for a property that will drain your pockets rather than line them.
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Disruptive Investment Group to increase stake to 100% in property marketplace iBuyNew.com.au

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Capital Corporation and Bluestone Property Group have merged to create a developer with a current pipeline of more than $2 billion worth of projects.
The new entity, <a href="https://capitalbluestone.com.au/" target="_blank">Capital Bluestone</a>, will have Capital Corporation founder and managing director Steve Grant as executive chairman, while Bluestone founder and managing director Ben Fairfax will continue in that role. 
Capital Corporation’s 25-year track record covers residential, commercial, industrial and retail property development. They concentrate on joint ventures around long term projects especially with a speciality in asset-strong entities including religious organisations and league clubs.
Its achievements include Sydney’s 172-hectare Norwest Business Park.
Capital has delivered a $700 million portfolio of 45 buildings, and accommodated the workspace needs of more than 1,000 businesses since 1990.
Since 2010, Capital has delivered a further $570 million in development partnerships, and as a combined group Capital Bluestone has delivered over $2.5 billion in total project completions.
“Formally joining together was a natural evolution of our relationship,” said Grant.
Bluestone Property Group, founded by Ben Fairfax in 2009, is aiming to complete work at its $750-million Sutherland shire project Woolooware Bay Town Centre in 2016.
The project will have more than 600 apartments, a shopping, dining and entertainment precinct and a rejuvenated new club for joint venture partner the Cronulla Sutherland Leagues Club.
All 460 available apartments have sold out in Woolooware Bay since launching in January 2014  – 97 percent to locals.
Other major projects includes a $143-million project called Veridian, a joint venture with Kogarah RSL Club, which will deliver the club with a new 2,000 square metre floor. Above the club, two 11-storey buildings will include 220 apartments in a mix of mainly one and two-bedroom types.
Also in the works is Esplanade, which will redevelop the existing Sydney Ice Arena on Norwest Lake into an integrated vertical waterfront community comprising residential towers, offices, cafes and bars.
“It’s something totally different for this part of Sydney. You say Norwest and people think business. It’s time to turn this into an absolute destination for high-end dining, business and apartment living,” said Grant.
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