<p>Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.</p>

<p>Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.</p>

<p>The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.</p>

<p>The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.</p>

<p>The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.</p>

<p><img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" /></p>

<p>Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.</p>

<p>The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.</p>

<p>The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.</p>

<p>The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.</p>

<p>Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.</p>

<p><img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" /></p>

<p>The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.</p>

<p>Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.</p>

<p>Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.</p>

<p>The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.</p>

<p><img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" /></p>

<p>Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.</p>

<p>The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.</p>

<p>Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.</p>

<p>The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.</p>

<p>The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history</p>


Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<p><a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.</p>

<p>55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.</p>

<p>The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]</p>

<p>55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.</p>

<p>Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.</p>

<p>The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]</p>

<p>At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.</p>

<p>The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.</p>

<p>A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.</p>

<p>Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.</p>

<p>Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.</p>

<p>“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.</p>

<p>55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.</p>

<p style="text-align:start">Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]</p>

<p>Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.</p>

<p>The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.</p>

<p>55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]</p>


Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

<p>UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.</p>

<p>Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.</p>

<p>The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.</p>

<p>It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.</p>

<p>Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.</p>

<p>A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.</p>

<p>The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.</p>

<p>It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.</p>

<p>Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.</p>

<p>“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.</p>

<p>“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”</p>

<p>Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.</p>

<p>“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”</p>

<p>The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.</p>

<p>Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.</p>

<p>The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.</p>


Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

<p>Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.</p>

<p>Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.</p>

<p>Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.</p>

<p>“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.</p>

<p>“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”</p>

<p>It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]</p>

<p>For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.</p>

<p>Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.</p>

<p>Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]</p>

<p>“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.</p>

<p>“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”</p>

<p>The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.</p>

<p>While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.</p>

<p>Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.</p>

<p>“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.</p>

<p>“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”</p>

<p>It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.</p>

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

<p>It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.</p>

<p>Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.</p>

<p>The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]</p>

<p>McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.</p>

<p>For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.</p>

<p>“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.</p>

<p>“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]</p>

<p>Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.</p>

<p>Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.</p>

<p>Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]</p>


From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

<p>Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]</p>

<p>Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.</p>

<p>Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.</p>

<p>At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]</p>

<p>The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.</p>

<p>Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.</p>

<p>Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]</p>

<p>Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.</p>

<p>Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.</p>

<p>Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]</p>


The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

New Developments

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<p>A $56 million project, across 7,500 square metres, in Pascoe Vale South is the brainchild of Coburg-based Better Living Group.</p>
<p>The creation, <a href="https://www.thepasco.com.au" target="_blank">The Pasco</a>, is 10 kilometres from Melbourne CBD on Cumberland Road and will offer 142 one- and two-bedroom apartments. They all come with a car space, a storage cage and lift access to the basement carpark. Street level apartments have individual street access.</p>
<p>Of the apartments, 76 are two-bedroom, two-bathrooms from $415,000, ranging from 78 to 144 square metres including the balcony or courtyard.</p>
<p>One-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments, of which there are 66, will range from 58 square metres including a balcony, and are priced from $315,000.</p>
<p>Some of the top level apartments have uninterrupted CBD views.</p>
<p>Pascoe Vale has recently been cited by Australian Property Monitors' as <a href="/news/vic/suburb-spotlight-glenroy-undergoing-gentrification">one of a number of Melbourne suburbs undergoing a gentrification process</a>. Despite this, affordable options still exist - in February <a href="/news/vic/where-can-you-still-find-affordable-housing-in-melbourne">Robert Larocca noted that one in 10 sales in this area sells for less than $400,000</a> - in line with the pricing of these apartments.</p>
<p>RP Data currently <a href="/news">puts the median apartment price for Pascoe Vale at $418,500</a>, with median asking rent at a soft $340 per week and time on the market dramatically decreasing over recent months.</p>
<p>The project, set across four buildings and three levels, has been designed by Point Architects and interior designers Colab Design Studio.</p>
<p>Two of the buildings have 36 apartments, while the other two have 35.</p>
<p>Director at Better Living Group, Dino Mazzei, said that they have been looking at the concept of community mindedness when creating The Pasco.</p>
<p>“With this in mind, we envisage The Pasco as a private community that celebrates and builds on the warmth of the suburb’s long-time residents and aims to be a positive addition to the growing neighborhood,” said Mazzei.</p>
<p>Timber floors, open plan living, and carpeted bedrooms are the basics of the design. Buyers have the option of a classic light or a dark colour palette.</p>
<p>With 2.7 metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies opening out onto both personal and communal outdoor areas, they have endeavoured to create the indoor/outdoor feel. They have included private landscaped areas covering almost 2,000 square metres.</p>
<p>At the centre of the development is a communal entertainment area with a gazebo and BBQ area.</p>
<p>The apartments also have passive solar heating, ventilation and a standard 6-star energy rating.</p>
<p>Construction is scheduled for early 2015, with completion for the end of the year.</p>
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Locally developed Melburnian apartments launching in Pascoe Vale

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<p>Brisbane CBD's new tallest tower, 81-level Meriton Serviced Apartments Brisbane, includes the highest apartment in Brisbane.</p>
<p>The development, at 43 Herschel Street, includes a penthouse collection where the apartments are offered with three-bedrooms, each with own bathroom, and bases the design on a previously successful launch in Sydney.</p>
<p>Meriton Serviced Apartments' national manager Matthew Thomas, said that <a href="https://www.meritonapartments.com.au/brisbane/herschel-street" target="_blank">these top-floor penthouses</a> include imported marble, custom-made carpeting and prestige leather sofas and dining chairs.</p>
<p>They include views of the city skyline and the Brisbane River to the mountains.</p>
<p>The complex also includes a heated indoor swimming pool and spa, private gym and a sauna.</p>
<p>There is a daily housekeeping service to all the apartments, and also a bi-weekly full housekeeping service.</p>
<p>It appears if you were to book for tonight, a 122 square metre penthouse will set you back around $895 per night, with a sleeping capacity of six people. Booking further in advance may net you the penthouse for under $600 a night.</p>
<p>Each room comes with either one king zip bed, or two single beds. One of the bathrooms has a shower and a bath, where the others have showers.</p>
<p>A TV with some Foxtel channels and a Blu-ray player is included, as well as iPod/iPhone docks in each bedroom, individually controlled heating/air-conditioning, an espresso machine with coffee pods and an internal laundry.</p>
<p>“The penthouses are the perfect special occasion, once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Matthew Thomas.</p>
<p>Local restaurants provide meal delivery straight to the apartment.</p>
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A sneak peek inside Brisbane's highest apartment

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<p>Local buyers and foreign buyers appear to be head-to-head in Melbourne’s development market, according to a JLL study, however they believe that locals are at a distinct advantage.</p>
<p>The study looked at buyer profiles of major development sites across Melbourne’s CBD, City Fringe, Docklands and St Kilda Road over the past 12 months. It found that 49% of the 39 properties sold from February 2013 to April 2014 were domestic buyer purchases.</p>
<p>When looking at the dollar value of $1 billion in transactions over the past 12 months, 51% came from domestic buyers, said JLL director, sales and investments, James Kaufman.</p>
<p>“Of the 39 major site sales JLL recorded, CBUS' purchase of 447 Collins Street for $91 million was the only land sale where the developer intended to undertake a commercial development,” he said.</p>
<p>“Generally foreign developers have a strong preference for sites that are offered for sale with the benefit of planning permits. Sites with permits make the assessment process significantly less complicated and remove uncertainty.”</p>
<p>He said that domestic developers have a “much deeper understanding” of the town planning process, providing them the advantage when bidding without a planning permit.</p>
<p>“This is evidenced with the sale of 181 Fitzroy Street, St Kilda (pictured above) and 85 Spring Street, Melbourne. During both campaigns, the marketing attracted interest from foreign buyers, however the planning risk put the local developers in the best position to secure the sites,” he said.</p>
<p>This was purchased by Grocon, with planning approval lodged for a 38-level, $300 million 370-apartment development at 85 Spring Street.</p>
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​Melbourne development sites give locals the advantage

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<p>New 20-level AQUA development is to be the new gateway to Bondi Junction, located on the corner of Oxford Street and Hollywood Avenue, just 500 metres from Bondi Junction train station.<br><br>The 129 apartments in <a href="https://www.aquabondijunction.com.au" target="_blank">AQUA</a> on offer are aiming themselves towards owner occupiers and investors, with Leighton Properties, in a joint venture with Qualitas, bringing the properties to market. The apartments are one-,two- and three-bedrooms, the majority with car spots, and all with access to the 146 bicycle spaces.</p>
<p><em>Property Observer</em> previously noted that <a href="/news/nsw/two-20-storey-apartment-towers-aqua-to-be-launched-in-bondi-junction">the apartments were soon to be launched</a>.</p>
<p>Architect Kannfinch, with DC8 Studio, are behind the design - looking to maximise the apartments' aspect to ensure all are north-westerly or north-easterly. The majority face north-west. There are two towers with a central corridor connecting them.</p>
<p>The development will include two rooftop gardens and lobbies on each level. It also has a podium with a retail and outdoor space mix.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/08/aqua-may-8-one.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Kannfinch senior associate, Mark Sheargold, said that the north-west facade of the north tower has city views, while the south tower has ocean views, both taken advantage of from floor-to-ceiling glass windows and balconies.</p>
<p>“In perspective, no entire elevation can be viewed at once which is intriguing to viewers and strengthens the gesture that you are looking at a sculpture form in-the-round,” he said.<br>The interiors have been designed by renowned Koichi Takada Architects.</p>
<p>Koichi Takada said that he incorporates a Japanese sensibility into the architecture.</p>
<p>“Our inspiration comes from the location of AQUA, which is an interchange between a connected, convenient and bustling shopping and transportation hub and some of Sydney’s best beaches – an escape to nature, water and waves,” he said.</p>
<p>“We’ve created two distinct schemes; one called ‘Breeze’ and the other ‘Drift’, and used new materials to experiment with playful shapes. The finishes are a balance of polished modern materials coupled with the warmth of textured, natural timber.”</p>
<p>Peter Chittenden, managing director at Colliers International, said that the development is on the most prominent site at Bondi Junction, and is one of the last high-rise opportunities for the foreseeable future.</p>
<p>“Residents need never use their car to get to work, do the shopping or meet friends for a drink, reducing the stress of urban life and easing pressure on the environment,” Chittenden said.</p>
</body></html>

Bondi Junction's AQUA launched to be area's new gateway

<html><body>
<p>Developers are putting little effort into building more sustainable residential properties due to a lack of consumer demand, industry leaders have said.</p>
<p>People buying houses in new residential developments typically planned to live in the property for only up to five years, which limited the payback period for environmentally friendly features, CSR managing director Rob Sindel said.</p>
<p>“They say ‘I’ll worry about the environmental stuff when I can afford it’,” he said at a Green Building Council of Australia breakfast meeting last week.</p>
<p>Consumers were more interested in features such as granite bench tops, high-end appliances and automatic garage doors than in energy or water saving measures. Marketing companies that sold newly developed residences promoted lifestyle benefits rather than sustainability, Sindel said.</p>
<p>Developers of multi-unit residences also faced challenges to building more sustainable dwellings, Leighton Properties managing director Mark Gray said.</p>
<p>Like buyers of freestanding homes, people who bought into multi-unit developments were attracted to the precinct’s amenities and community.</p>
<p>Gray said there were opportunities for precinct-based initiatives, where measures were installed to improve the sustainability of the entire multi-residential development, but these could be hampered by service authorities.</p>
<p>“Service authorities are sources of great frustration for developers as they [the service authorities] don’t like change whatsoever. They don’t like individual precincts, they want control over everything,” he said.</p>
<p>Gray said to overcome the barriers to increased adoption of sustainable principles in residential construction, there was a need for further awareness and education in the community to boost demand.</p>
<p>“Unless we get people a lot younger and educate people at a much earlier age, we won’t get the outcomes that we all desire,” Gray said.</p>
<p>Dexus Property Group executive general manager, property services and chief operating officer Tanya Cox said the frequency of changes to public policy surrounding green building initiatives was a challenge to all sustainable development.</p>
<p>“Property is a long-term investment and long term investment businesses need policy stability,” she said.</p>
<p>She added that the politics of the climate change debate had made it more difficult for green building to gain traction.</p>
<p>“The conversation has changed from reducing excesses and pollution – we know that pollution is bad for the environment. Whether climate change is man-made has made the conversation much more difficult for us,” Cox said.</p>
<p>In addition to their roles as business leaders, Sindel, Gray and Cox are board members of the Green Building Council of Australia. </p>
</body></html>

zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Lack of consumer demand for sustainable residential property

<html><body>
<p>Rayjon Group has been given full council approval for a $200 million apartment project in the Gold Coast suburb of Benowa yesterday, readying themselves to start building.</p>
<p>The 357 apartment, six-building development site is called Vantage Royal Pines, or more familiarly as Vantage, and sits on a 2.4 hectare site, near Ross Street and Ashmore Road junction.</p>
<p>Along with Coles, Rayjon has been contributing 3,500 square metres of land to assist the state government with upgrading this section of the roads. Coles received a DA for a supermarket on the parcel of land adjoining this site. Coles has been a presence previously in Rayjon developments.</p>
<p>According to <em>The Gold Coast Bulletin</em>, the development saw 600 objections, which saw some discussion around traffic and the extra burden.</p>
<p>The apartments will include two- and three-bedroom properties, an extensive central green space and a recreation hub for residents – including pool, gym, media rooms and barbecue facilities.</p>
<p>Vantage Royal Pines will include a range of two and three-bedroom apartments as well as an extensive central green space and recreation hub for residents including pool, gym, community/media rooms and barbecue facilities.</p>
<p>Golf course and hinterland views will be available from some of the apartments.</p>
<p>However, this site is just part of the land parcel that the development company owns, having bought in 2006, explains managing director of Rayjon Group, John Hembrow.</p>
<p> “We are delighted with the approval and as a company we are in a position to push ahead with Vantage immediately,” Hembrow said.</p>
<p>“We intend to undertake site works and commence marketing this year to create what we believe will be a wonderful asset for the area.”</p>
<p>The development will be staged and constructed in relation to market demand, he explained.</p>
<p>The Royal Pines precinct is also seeing RACV transforming the Royal Pines Resort Hotel and Spa, and the Royal Pines Golf Course is undergoing an extensive upgrade, as well as Metricon Stadium.</p>
<p>Much of this is being driven by the 2018 Commonwealth Games.</p>
<p>Currently, <a href="/news">Benowa</a>'s median unit price is $490,000 with a median advertised weekly rent at $470. Days on market have been steadily falling.</p>
</body></html>

Gold Coast Council approves $200 million apartment development

<html><body>
<p>Celebrity chef Matt Moran has spent close to $1 million to buy an off the plan Brisbane apartment in Sunland’s Abian tower.</p>
<p>Matt Moran secured a two-bedroom, two-bathroom low rise apartment in the 40-level tower which overlooks the city’s botanic gardens.</p>
<p>Moran controls two restaurants in the city, hence his decision to buy into the <span>curvilinear, pewter glass tower</span>.</p>
<p>Moran told The Weekend Australian the fourth floor apartment could be an investment property in the future, but he is visiting Brisbane most weeks.</p>
<p>It’s close to the restaurants, Aria Brisbane and Riverbar and Kitchen on Brisbane’s Eagle Street Pier.</p>
<p>It was late 2009 when the 2067 square metre French Quarter development site was bought from Devine for $24.88 million, with an anticipated 2013-2014 construction completion date. It was in 2006 when the l<span style="line-height: 1.3em;">isted property group Devine Limited completed its aggregated site in the Brisbane CBD for $22.7 million.</span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>The amalgamation of the 2,067 square metre site on the corner of Alice and Albert Streets involved securing the 23 units in the Carrington apartment complex and contracting to buy an adjoining vacant site at 140 Alice Street. </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>Some 110 apartments of the 147 in delayed landmark Abian tower quickly only sold earlier this year at a $1.6 million average with its penthouses and a two-level 1200 square metre sky villa still available for purchase at $16 million.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.sunlandgroup.com.au/property/abian-botanic-gardens/" target="_blank">Construction of Abian</a>, which is adjacent to Quay West on Alice Street, is due to start mid-year, with a reported 2017 completion.</p>
<p>The Sunland apartments will feature hand-applied gold leaf on the ceilings of its public spaces, 24-hour concierge, plunge pools, treatment rooms as well as Turkish baths.</p>
<p>RP Data recently reported the values of Brisbane’s premium unit market had increased 4.5% over the 12 months to the end of February, the strongest growth of any unit market segment in Brisbane</p>
<p>“There’s huge pent-up demand, particularly for luxury apartments," RP Data's Cameron Kusher suggested.</p>
<p>"Brisbane is much like Sydney and Melbourne 10 years ago, where we started to see a lot of  higher-end apartments; that trend is catching on in Brisbane.”</p>
<p>Over the last decade, the Brisbane residential apartment market had been catering for the investor market, according to Sunland managing director Sahba Abedian whose tower was pitched as the owner occupier.</p>
<p>At least 110 apartment blocks are planned for Brisbane, according to research house Urbis.</p>
<p>RP Data's Cameron Kusher noted this week t<span>he rising prominence of unit approvals in Brisbane is a relatively new phenomenon with unit approvals over-taking those of houses in Brisbane from June 2013.</span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The Gold Coast-based Sahba Abedian is moving to Brisbane where he will also oversee </span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">plans for three or four buildings on the former ABC site at Toowong.</span></p>
<p>Investors have emerged with a great presence in recent f<span style="line-height: 1.3em;">igures compiled by AFG for Queensland over April. </span></p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">The mortgage broker recorded that loans to investors accounted for almost two out five (38%) of home loan arranged over the month, up from 32% in February.</span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 2">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>AFG </span><span>MORTGAGES </span><span>SOLD</span><span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> QLD</span></p>
</div>
</div>
<table style="width: 460px;">
<colgroup>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>MONTH </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>TOTAL NUMBER </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>TOTAL AMOUNT </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>AVERAGE SIZE </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>FIRST TIME BUYERS </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>PROPERTY INVESTORS </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Feb 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image144800" alt="page2image144800" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image145280" alt="page2image145280" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,697 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image146520" alt="page2image146520" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>605m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image147920" alt="page2image147920" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image148240" alt="page2image148240" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$356k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image149320" alt="page2image149320" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image149640" alt="page2image149640" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.4% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image150720" alt="page2image150720" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><img src="file:///page2image151304" alt="page2image151304" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Mar 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image153912" alt="page2image153912" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,615 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>564m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image156200" alt="page2image156200" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$349k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image157264" alt="page2image157264" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image158328" alt="page2image158328" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Apr 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image161032" alt="page2image161032" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,721 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image162280" alt="page2image162280" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>587m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image164152" alt="page2image164152" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$341k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image165080" alt="page2image165080" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image165552" alt="page2image165552" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>3.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image166480" alt="page2image166480" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image166952" alt="page2image166952" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>36.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image167880" alt="page2image167880" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>May 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,803 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>629m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$348k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>32.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>June 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image174192" alt="page2image174192" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,545 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>531m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image176480" alt="page2image176480" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$344k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image177544" alt="page2image177544" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image178608" alt="page2image178608" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>July 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image180632" alt="page2image180632" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,799 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>614m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$341k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Aug 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image187712" alt="page2image187712" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,755 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>618m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image190000" alt="page2image190000" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$352k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image191064" alt="page2image191064" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.0% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image192128" alt="page2image192128" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.8% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Sept 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image194472" alt="page2image194472" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,756 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>627m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image196760" alt="page2image196760" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$357k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image197824" alt="page2image197824" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image198888" alt="page2image198888" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>35.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Oct 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image201592" alt="page2image201592" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,972 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image202520" alt="page2image202520" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>701m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image204712" alt="page2image204712" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$355k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image206112" alt="page2image206112" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image207512" alt="page2image207512" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>36.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Nov 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,906 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>686m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$360k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.6% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Dec 13 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image214752" alt="page2image214752" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,555 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>556m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image217040" alt="page2image217040" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$358k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image218104" alt="page2image218104" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.2% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image219168" alt="page2image219168" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>34.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Jan 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image221192" alt="page2image221192" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,349 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>473m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$350k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>33.5% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Feb 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image227952" alt="page2image227952" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,710 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>611m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$357k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>6.9% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>32.3% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Mar 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image234576" alt="page2image234576" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<img src="file:///page2image235072" alt="page2image235072" width="0.480000" height="0.480000"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,891 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>704m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$372k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>5.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>37.1% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>Apr 14 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
<img src="file:///page2image243184" alt="page2image243184" width="0.480000" height="0.480000">
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>1,733 </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>631m </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>$364k </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>4.7% </span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
<p><span>38.2%</span></p>
</div>
</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</div>
<p>But NSW remained the most investor-dominated market with almost one in two home loans arranged by AFG brokers over April for investment purposes.<span style="line-height: 1.3em;"> </span></p>
<p>Investors accounted for a third or more of home loans arranged in Victoria, South Australian and WA over April.</p>
<p><span style="line-height: 1.3em;">"Investor activity does seem to be gathering pace in Queensland,” said AFG general manager Mark Hewitt noted. </span></p>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Chef Matt Moran buys in owner occupier Abian, Brisbane apartment block

<html><body>
<p>Over the next 40 years, Australians aged over 65 will make up over 25% of the population, according to the Treasury’s 2010 Intergenerational Report.</p>
<p>With baby boomers set to drive demand for retirement housing, specialist property developer Halcyon has launched two new Queensland developments aimed at the over 50s market.</p>
<p>Halcyon engaged Brisbane based design firm DC8Studio to help tailor Halcyon Glades at Caboolture and Vision by Halcyon at Hope Island to the needs of the retirees.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/Riccardo%20Rizzali%20DC8Studio.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>According to DC8Studio director Riccardo Rizzalli (pictured above), Halcyon’s target market are retirees who are looking to maintain an active lifestyle.</p>
<p> “The people who come to live in Halcyon communities are forward thinking in their approach to retirement living,” he said.</p>
<p>“That is to say, they are very active people, who are looking forward to a happy and healthy life post working.</p>
<p>“There is a term that is used often, that these baby boomers aren't retiring they are ‘retreading’.</p>
<p>“This is really a beginning of a new journey for home owners and this was strongly reflected in our design brief.”</p>
<p>A report released in April by housing company Lifestyle Communities showed that although half of those surveyed were reliant on the sale of their family home to sustain their current lifestyle, there was a lack of suitable stock to facilitate post-retirement downsizing.</p>
<p>Halcyon joint managing director Bevan Geissmann said that maintaining a high quality of life post retirement was an important focus for the company.</p>
<p>“The downsizing process involves freeing up capital for retirees to spend on recreational pursuits or general living expenses,” said Geissmann.</p>
<p>“But today’s baby boomers have high expectations of their retirement lifestyle, so location and design of the home are both vitally important.</p>
<p>“As a developer of over 50s communities our focus weighs heavily on these aspects.</p>
<p>“It’s why we invest a lot of time into researching market trends, finding the right sites, developing masterplans and creating homes that respond to the needs of modern seniors.”</p>
<p>Glades at Caboolture (pictured below) is the company’s most affordable development to date. The 178 home community will include a variety of recreational facilities, including a swimming pool and gymnasium, a cinema, library, bowling green, tennis court and recreation centre. Prices range from $335,000 to $467,500.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/Halcyon%20Galdes%20street%20scape.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>At the opposite end of the price spectrum, Vision by Halcyon (pictured below) is being marketed as a luxury development, with 88 homes, a 52 berth marina and a lifestyle and aquatic precinct. Homes at Vision are priced from $559,000 with the most expensive property available at $1.25 million.</p>
<p><img src="/images/2014/05/06/halcyon-may-6-breakout.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><em>More on Halcyon:<br></em></p>
<p><em><a href="/expert-insights/building/gold-coasts-60-million-vision-by-halcyon-targeting-over-50-downsizers">Gold Coast's $60 million Vision by Halcyon targeting over-50 downsizers</a></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Halcyon launches two new developments for over 50s market

<html><body>
<p>Charter Hall’s latest Brisbane development is 100 Skyring, a $175 million A-Grade 12-storey office building in Newstead. It’s three months ahead of schedule, with announcements that the first tenants will be moving in from November.</p>
<p>Located in the Gasworks precinct, the building is set to be the national headquarters for the Bank of Queensland, the anchor tenant who is leasing 54% of the building.</p>
<p>The 2,200 square metre campus-style building with floor plates is in the fastest growing office precinct in Brisbane.</p>
<p>It is 1.7 kilometres from the CBD, and contains 23,759 square metres of office and retail space. The area already has companies such as Leighton Contractors, Bechtel, Virgin Airlines, Macquarie Bank, AECOM, Australian Agricultural Company and Energex in residence.</p>
<p>Charter Hall regional asset manager Belinda Kalinin said that it’s now three months ahead of construction schedule due to careful planning.</p>
<p>“This month, Hutchinson Builders has installed the final level of facade, allowing interior work to ramp up,” explained Kalinin.</p>
<p>Interested tenants include companies looking for flexible floor plate office spaces near to Brisbane CBD.   </p>
<p>“100 Skyring<em>,</em> jointly owned by Charter Hall’s Core Plus Office Fund and a global institutional partner, is the latest major Brisbane office property investment by Charter Hall, which already owns Brisbane Square, 175 Eagle Street and 275 George Street,” she said.</p>
<p>BOQ is moving the headquarters to the development to transform the way staff work, creating a more flexible and collaborative environment, according to chief executive Stuart Grimshaw.</p>
<p>“We are also looking forward to being part of the growing Newstead community – it is exciting to see the calibre of companies and retailers choosing to base themselves there and there is a real sense of momentum building about the precinct."</p>
</body></html>

Brisbane’s 100 Skyring, new BOQ headquarters, to see first tenants

<html><body>
<p>Property developer Fridcorp was last night the host of a glitzy party at the launch of their newly completed 16 storey tower, Avenue.</p>
<p>Avenue, situated on the corner of Chapel Street and Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, is a $120 million section of the <a href="/news/south-yarras-forrest-hill-precinct-the-vision-behind-the-rejuvenating-transformation">Forest Hill rejuvenation</a> plan.</p>
<p>The result is an impressive rippled rose colour glass design by architect Elenberg Fraser, peering over a key stretch of the Yarra River.</p>
<p>“Avenue is about great things coming together. It's where three of the most recognised design teams in attainable luxury collaborate; Fridcorp, the developer, Elenberg Fraser, the architect and Hecker Guthrie, the interior designer,” said Fridcorp director Paul Fridman.</p>
<p>“We are extremely proud of Avenue, with its uninterrupted City and Yarra views across 16 levels with every apartment meticulously designed for modern day living,” said Fridman.</p>
<p>The completion party was a suitably stylish affair, with white-feathered models greeting attendees.</p>
<p>But the centre of attention for this party was <em>My Kitchen </em>Rules judge, celebrity chef Manu Fiedel, who was at hand in the kitchen catering for the event.  Lydia Schiavello of <em>The Real Housewives of Melbourne</em> was also in attendance.</p>
<p>The development of Avenue was often controversial. Initial plans for a 25 storey tower atop the former Lamborghini dealership site were bitterly contested by parents at the nearby Melbourne High School, and billionaire Lindsey Fox.</p>
<p>In 2011, <a href="https://newsstore.fairfax.com.au/apps/viewDocument.ac;jsessionid=7FD264BAB550BD8A90CA3103EC19909F?sy=afr&amp;pb=all_ffx&amp;dt=selectRange&amp;dr=1month&amp;so=relevance&amp;sf=text&amp;sf=headline&amp;rc=10&amp;rm=200&amp;sp=brs&amp;cls=279&amp;clsPage=1&amp;docID=SAG110828204T13BUR9B">Fairfax reported</a> that Fridcorp had doubled the density of the project, rebranding it as Avenue.</p>
<p>Although the party celebrated the completion of Avenue, Fridcorp is still active in South Yarra with construction continuing at the nearby mixed-use development, <a href="https://www.fridcorp.com.au/projects/lilli-apartments" target="_blank">lilli</a>, home to Fiedel’s new restaurant <a href="https://www.legrandcirque.com.au/" target="_blank">Le Grande Cirque</a>.</p>
</body></html>

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