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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"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.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

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

Northern Beaches

Progressive Australian property developers Lindsay Bennelong are set to add a new landmark project to their burgeoning portfolio.

The group has lodged plans for a boutique development on a prime beachside site in Manly.

Just five apartments will be built across a four-level building at 61 North Steyne, four three-bedroom units and one two-bedder.&nbsp;

With close proximity to Manly’s town centre and the CBD, the area is characterised by a mix of building types which have evolved and changed over the years, with the latest residences set blend seamlessly with the coastal surrounds.

<img alt="Render of the North Steyne development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e6120c3-3b2c-4566-abe9-0dbb8ee6fa92" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-21%20at%209.46.39%20am.png?VersionId=jZOxyXcsg8efn67l62MtdCE7Ndk4Arr6" />Render of the Manly development at 61 North Steyne.&nbsp;

Designed by Platform Architects, the generously-sized apartments boast views across Manly Beach, complete with expansive outdoor areas fronting the water.&nbsp;

A feature screen has been incorporated in the design to maintain privacy to neighbours and between apartments, with the elements also creating visual interest and articulation to the building as well as providing an element of solar control. The building is also proposed to be constructed of concrete and masonry to enable heat gain to radiate in the cooler evening hours – again contributing to a comfortable temperature.

The site benefits from a portion of road reserve that was dedicated for road widening. That dedication has now been abandoned and the land to south at 60 North Steyne has incorporated the area into their landscaped front setback design.&nbsp;

“We feel that stepping down a corner site that is flanked by taller buildings would result in a less than desirable urban design outcome and as such feel a compatible building height is more appropriate," Platform Architects noted in their design submission.

Landscaping has been incorporated into the design to give all dwellings access to greenery, including large trees, shrubs and ground covers, contributing to the local flora and microclimate. Landscaping is not only limited to the ground floor level but is also incorporated at higher levels, with a green roof over the carlift and planters on the terraces and balconies. Landscaping thus plays an important role in the overall expression of the design, with the green spaces also for water absorption, re-use and filtering of the run off into the existing drainage systems.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the North Steyne development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ebe2a4c-5311-48ea-adbc-7669442c4dc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202022-11-21%20at%209.46.57%20am.png?VersionId=TubLajRLd7gWytFTIZe9t2r0tXLBcEzC" />Render of the Manly development at 61 North Steyne.&nbsp;

The proposed density on the site is desirable due to the site’s close connection with job opportunities in Manly Town Centre, along with public transport to the city and other suburbs. In addition, the location of the site is well suited to accommodate future residents with easy access to public amenities and transport within walking distance.

Lindsay Bennelong are well known in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs, having completed the sold-out Vue in Bondi Junction. The group’s other Bondi Junction project, Whitton Lane, is currently on the market. They also have plans for a small project in Maroubra.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136806]

Just five apartments will be built across a four-level building at 61 North Steyne

alisonwarters@gmail.com

First look: Lindsay Bennelong lodge plans for beachside Manly apartments

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER

Six months ago it was hard to find any suburbs across the Greater Sydney Area with rising buyer demand, but now there are many. It’s been a sharp turnaround – but an uneven one.

Overall, this is the strongest Sydney market I’ve recorded in the five years that I’ve been conducting quarterly surveys of sales activity and price trends. 

Our Winter 2019 survey pinpointed the bottom of the Sydney trough and our latest survey, now under way, provides strong evidence of the market revival, showing just how much has changed since the middle of last year. 

Locations with rising markets, as measured by sales activity, can be found in 22 municipalities across the Sydney metro area, but the revival is not evenly distributed. The greatest uplift is being felt at the upper end of the market and many suburbs have not yet experienced significant improvement.

The number of suburbs classified as declining markets has dropped a lot but there are still 12 suburbs with deteriorating demand – and another 12 that have that characteristic as well as high vacancies and weak prices, which we therefore classify as danger markets.

There danger markets are all locations where apartments predominate. Seven of them are in the Parramatta LGA, where high levels of new apartments have been built in recent years and vacancies remain in the 5% to 8% range in several cases.

The leading market in the Greater Sydney Area is the Northern Beaches LGA. It has nine suburbs with rising sales activity, plus six others with steady buyer demand. 

Quarterly sales in Newport have been 28-36-53-64, while Freshwater and Frenchs Forest are stand-outs for maintaining highly consistently sales levels throughout the post-boom correction phase and now in the recovery.

The Inner West LGA is also performing well, with six growth suburbs and nine others with consistent buyer demand. Quarterly sales in Annandale have been 17-32-36-45-64, while Leichardt has been 59-68-77-105, patterns that will likely drive prices higher.

The Sydney City LGA has growth suburbs, but also shows the importance of not generalizing when discussing real estate in a major city. The central city LGA has five suburbs with growing sales activity, 11 with steady markets, three where demand continues to decline and one suburb which we classify as a danger market. All that diversity exists in one municipality. 

Blacktown is the strongest of the outer-ring markets, with five growth suburbs and 11 with steady sales activity. Schofields continues to stand out with rising sales activity – quarterly sales over the past two years have been 64-82-99-105-120-150-196-162.

Other LGAs with three or four growth suburbs include the Hills Shire, Ku-ring-gai, North Sydney and Sutherland municipalities.

This new survey also shows the recovery in the Canterbury-Bankstown area. Six months ago, 12 suburbs in this LGA were rated as declining markets, with sales levels dropping markedly. But now most of these suburbs have been re-classified as plateau markets, as sales levels start to improve. And four suburbs of the Canterbury-Bankstown LGA have shown sufficient revival to be classified as rising markets.

Across Greater Sydney, prices are reacting to the uplift in demand that is generally occurring in many locations, but most suburbs still have median prices below the levels of 12 months ago. This applies to 92% of suburbs for houses and 85% of suburbs for apartments.

But many suburbs have shown increases in the latest quarter. Examples include Mona Vale (median house price down 8% annually but up 2.3% in the latest quarter); Collaroy (down 15% in annual terms but up 9.5% quarter-to-quarter); Bronte (down 9% year-on-year but up 2.6% in the latest quarter); and Killara (down 15% annually but up 3% quarter-to-quarter). 

This is a pattern I expect to see becoming increasingly prevalent as the uplift being led by the more expensive areas spreads more widely across the metro area.

Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a> twitter.com/hotspotting

PICTURE SOURCE: <a class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/34120957@N04" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Alex Proimos</a>
</body></html>

terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Northern Beaches rising buyer demand drives Greater Sydney to strongest Sydney market: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

<html><body>
Plans to slash travel times for drivers and public transport commuters in Sydney’s north have taken a major step forward with the Beaches Link Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) released today. 

Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the mega-project will include twin tunnels under Middle Harbour with three lanes in each direction, allowing commuters to avoid peak hour congestion on the Spit Bridge, Military Road and the Roseville Bridge. 

“Beaches Link will transform the way people move to and from the Northern Beaches, bypassing 19 sets of traffic lights through The Spit, Mosman and Neutral Bay and help save up to 56 minutes between Dee Why and Sydney airport,” Ms Berejiklian said.

Residents in Neutral Bay, Mosman and Cremorne are set to benefit from the new tunnels, with less congestion and noise and traffic volumes expected to reduce by around a third along Spit Road.

<img alt="" height="1495" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/beaches_link_render_2.jpg" width="2000">

Ms Berejiklian says the Western Harbour Tunnel and Beaches Link program is expected to support around 15,000 full-time jobs.

Minister for Transport and Roads Andrew Constance said the project will integrate with new and existing public transport connections.

“There will be the opportunity for new express bus services to key centres including St Leonards, Macquarie Park, North Sydney and Sydney CBD, and direct access to North Sydney to interchange with the new Sydney Metro,” Mr Constance said.

“We’re also planning more than five kilometres of new cycle and pedestrian pathways, including links to the Northern Beaches Hospital precinct.

“This is the next stage of the consultation process, giving the community another opportunity to have its say.

<img alt="" height="1323" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/beaches_link_render_3.jpg" width="2000">

“Transport for NSW has adapted its community engagement in line with current health advice regarding COVID-19, and will be providing enhanced online engagement with virtual information sessions throughout January and February.

“We’ll also work closely with locals in Balgowlah, where we’ll be returning an area equivalent to around 90 per cent of the current open space to the community. Further consultation will be held with the community on open space in Balgowlah later in 2021.”

The tunnel will be up to 108 metres in depth (approximately 33 storeys) and include new connections on the Gore Hill Freeway at Artarmon, Warringah Freeway at Cammeray and direct access onto Burnt Bridge Creek Deviation at Balgowlah and Wakehurst Parkway at Seaforth.

The Wakehurst Parkway will be widened from one lane to two in each direction between Seaforth and Frenchs Forest.

<h2>Sydney properties selling now:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21618]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7619]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758]
</body></html>

The mega-project will include twin tunnels under Middle Harbour with three lanes in each direction.


urban.com.au

Northern Beaches set to boom with Beaches Link announcement

<html><body>
Risk appetite and investment strategy will play a large role in deciding where to invest, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation.
<div class="page" title="Page 27">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The HTW report suggest the entry level price point of $700,000 and products on offer appeal primarily to first home buyers and investors.
"An investor should be mindful of vacancy rates, competing stock levels and planned infrastructure upgrades, making sure to utilise the most recent market evidence to justify any decisions," the valuation firm said. 
Value levels have performed better than forecast during the COVID-19 period, with CoreLogic reporting a 0.4 per cent decline in dwelling values across Sydney in May. 
Median data suggests the Northern Beaches is still currently well above 2019 levels for both unit and dwellings. Sqmresearch.com has current median listing prices of dwellings at $2 million, well above the May 2019 low of $1.69 million.
Given that $700,000 is well below the median dwelling value of $1.8 million (CoreLogic as at March 2020) it would take something fairly unusual and a property in Wheeler Heights just so happens to have sold recently, the report noted. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-wheeler+heights-106266168" target="_blank">65A Penrith Avenue, Wheeler Heights </a>(pictured above) is a lower level duplex built circa 1970’s that has been renovated internally and features one bedroom, one bathroom, open plan living room and entertaining deck and courtyard.
This compact semi-detached dwelling sold in February 2020 for $700,000 and was last leased for $450 per week in 2019.
</div>
<div class="column">
A budget of $700,000 provides a plethora of opportunities in the unit market with a number of suburbs including Mona Vale, Dee Why, Avalon, Manly, Collaroy, Newport and Brookvale having a range of unit types available for under $700,000 (some as low as $450,000). 
"One-bedroom units are available from as low as $500,000 in Dee Why, so $700,000 would allow the opportunity for a modern or renovated one-bedroom unit. 
"Alternatively, older style two-bedroom units are available from circa $650,000," the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/28/dee%20why.jpg" alt="">
A recent example is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-dee+why-133312094" target="_blank"> 8/14 Lismore Avenue, Dee Why</a> (pictured above).
The renovated circa 1970’s two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit sold for $665,000 on 28 May.
<div class="page" title="Page 27">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Dee Why would offer a higher yield potential (circa four per cent) although historically offers lower capital growth prospects in comparison to other nearby suburbs. 
Alternatively, an older style unit in a busier position in Balgowlah or Manly is available for a similar value level, the report noted. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

What a lazy $700,000 can buy on Sydney's Northern Beaches: HTW residential 

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The Northern Beaches area is heavily owner- occupier driven and most renovations occur for this purpose, whether that be for first-home buyers looking to add value or families looking to upsize but remain in their existing homes, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
<div class="page" title="Page 4">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
The report notes Freshwater is one of the most active suburbs for home renovations at the moment.
"The suburb has one of the highest number of outstanding development applications in the Northern Beaches Council with around 30, particularly high considering the size of the suburb," the valuation firm said. 
Entry level into the Freshwater market for housing is typically $1.5 million to $2 million, depending on the position in the suburb, land characteristics and accommodation size.Generally speaking, construction works typically return their cost and often a profit.
"It is prudent to analyse sales in the local area of finished, renovated homes if creating equity is a major factor in your decision to renovate. 
"The sales will assist in determining what the market is willing to pay for certain products, help set a construction budget and provide design ideas and concepts that the local market is receptive to," the valuation firm said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/10/freshwater%20after%20.jpg" alt="">
A recent example of this is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-freshwater-133208874" target="_blank">70 Soldiers Avenue, Freshwater</a> (pictured above) which sold for $2.725 million on 9 April 2020.
This circa 1960s, four-bedroom, three- bathroom property recently underwent a full renovation and is a good benchmark for owners looking to renovate their existing homes in the suburb.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Freshwater - the most active suburbs for home renovations in the Northern Beaches: HTW residential 

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The first home buyer market is more sensitive to general economic factors such as interest rate movement and fiscal policy, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at what things traditionally matter to property markets and provided some take on how current crisis is playing into decision making. 
The report suggests that Localised factors such as supply levels also play a part, with affordability being a key market driver. 
Brookvale is a popular sublrb for first home buyers, having one of the lowest median unit prices of $745,000 as at December 2019, in comparison to the Northern Beaches median of $875,000 (source: CoreLogic).
<div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
"The area has seen strong development over the course of the past decade, resulting in a healthy level of stock that has consequently placed downward pressure on values," the valuation firm said. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/4/20/northern%20beaches%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge: 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/4/20/northern%20beaches%20.jpg" alt="">
Northern Beaches building approvals dropped drastically in 2018/2019 and are tracking at similar levels for the 2019/2020 financial year.
"There is a clear correlation between volume levels and building approvals and we would anticipate these factors to impact the first home buyer unit market," the valuation firm said. 
<div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
"For the upgrader market, we’ve seen strong demand from buyers outside of the Peninsular really driving this level of the market," the valuation firm continued. 
Realestate. com.au reported that 2019 was the first time more outside buyers were searching for properties on the Northern Beaches than those within.
The inner-west and eastern suburbs were key regions, with factors such as infrastructure upgrades including the B-line providing faster commuting options to the CBD, increase in flexible working arrangements allowing individuals to work from home more frequently, and the affordability of the area in relation to other Sydney regions proving key factors in this shift.
At the prestige end, Palm Beach is synonymous with prestige and a large number of these properties are owned by high net worth individuals from outside of the Northern Beaches, however there is also a strong local prestige market along the coastline, the report noted. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/4/20/Collaroy%20Plateau.jpg" alt="">
</div>
<div class="column">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-collaroy-133077790" target="_blank">67 Edgecliffe Boulevard, Collaroy Plateau</a> (pictured above) is currently on the market through Knight Frank with a reported initial guide of $10 million, roughly $5 million above the suburb record.
According to the HTW report, this brand new luxury asset is sure to appeal to both local and international markets due to the ultra-modern finishes, unique position and unbeatable views.
<div class="page" title="Page 7">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
"Whilst we have not seen any recent change in market sentiment and values to date, the outlook for the prestige sector remains rather uncertain.
"If the current global economic turmoil continues, we consider this will likely have a negative impact on demand and value levels," the valuation firm concluded. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Northern Beaches prestige sector remains uncertain in the time of COVID-19 pandemic: HTW residential 

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 5">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Sydney’s infrastructure boom is rolling on with the North Connex tunnel opening later this year, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm asked their valuers to give an educated outlook on the residential market in their service areas.
"This tunnel will take five thousand trucks per day off Pennant Hills Road and reduce travel times between the M1 and M2. We believe the big winners will be the more affordable suburbs in the upper North Shore of Mount Colah, Berowra and Mt Ku Ring Gai," the valuation firm stated. 
These suburbs will have a greatly reduced travel time to the CBD and the M2 motorway.
"Keep an eye on the median house prices in these areas over the next few years," the valuation firm said. 
The report suggests the Northern Beaches market as a whole is expected to stabilise, barring any significant political or financial legislative changes.
"If 2019 taught us anything, it was how these two factors heavily contribute to underlying market conditions and overall market sentiment, particularly in the entry and middle sectors," the valuation firm said. 
How the Reserve Bank manages the Australian macro-economic issues will likely have the largest impact on the performance of the housing market, with housing stock levels anticipated to remain fairly low.
"We are anticipating blue-chip suburbs along the eastern side of Pittwater Road to outperform their western counterparts. Special areas of interest include Ingleside, Avalon, Warriewood Valley and Frenchs Forest," the valuation firm said. 
</div>
<div class="column">
The Ingleside Precinct Plan went back to the drawing board in 2019 and it will be interesting to see the revised plans that the council and New South Wales state government re-submit. 
Still a medium to long term prospect, but the progression of this area is something to keep an eye on in 2020, especially with the Mona Vale Road upgrades currently underway.
A five bedroom house in Ingleside is currently on the market with a price guide of $2.35 million.
The two storey brick veneer house is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-ingleside-131398374" target="_blank">240 Powderworks Road</a> (pictured below).
Nestled over 3,072sqm, the house comprises five bedrooms, three bathrooms, country style kitchen, and double lock up garage. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/2/10/ingleside%202.jpg" alt="">
The report suggests there are many commonalities between Avalon and Byron Bay. 
The suburb has a unique vibe and has become really popular for young families, particularly from the eastern suburbs and lower suburbs of the Northern Beaches. 
Families are seeing value without compromising on lifestyle. 
The suburb had one of the highest auction clearance rates and we anticipate the suburb to continue to perform in 2020.
An Avalon Beach beach house was sold for $1.8 million in December, 2019.
The four bedroom, two bathroom holiday house is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-avalon+beach-132589574" target="_blank">81 Riverview Road</a> (pictured below).
The weatherboard cottage features open plan with polished timber floors, expansive balcony and open fireplace. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/2/10/avalon%20beach.jpg" alt="">
The final land releases in Warriewood Valley, located off Warriewood Road, are currently on the market. 
The land sizes range mostly between 325 and 450 square metres and are around $3000 to $3500 per square metre.
 2020 is likely to be the last year where a large scale land subdivision occurs for quite some time.
Lastly, a key infrastructure milestone was completed in December 2019 with the excavation of the 1.3 kilometre long Warringah Road underpass finished. 
"The underpass will eventually provide more capacity for the thousands of daily motorists, ease current heavy traffic congestion and help reduce travel times. 
"We also expect to see a continuation of investment at both a private and public level around the $1 billion Northern Beaches Hospital." 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Northern Beaches market expected to stabilise in 2020: HTW residential 

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
Six months ago it was hard to find any suburbs across the Greater Sydney Area with rising buyer demand, but now there are many. It’s been a sharp turnaround – but an uneven one.
Overall, this is the strongest Sydney market I’ve recorded in the five years that I’ve been conducting quarterly surveys of sales activity and price trends. 
Our Winter 2019 survey pinpointed the bottom of the Sydney trough and our latest survey, now under way, provides strong evidence of the market revival, showing just how much has changed since the middle of last year. 
Locations with rising markets, as measured by sales activity, can be found in 22 municipalities across the Sydney metro area, but the revival is not evenly distributed. The greatest uplift is being felt at the upper end of the market and many suburbs have not yet experienced significant improvement.
The number of suburbs classified as declining markets has dropped a lot but there are still 12 suburbs with deteriorating demand – and another 12 that have that characteristic as well as high vacancies and weak prices, which we therefore classify as danger markets.
There danger markets are all locations where apartments predominate. Seven of them are in the Parramatta LGA, where high levels of new apartments have been built in recent years and vacancies remain in the 5% to 8% range in several cases.
The leading market in the Greater Sydney Area is the Northern Beaches LGA. It has nine suburbs with rising sales activity, plus six others with steady buyer demand. 
Quarterly sales in Newport have been 28-36-53-64, while Freshwater and Frenchs Forest are stand-outs for maintaining highly consistently sales levels throughout the post-boom correction phase and now in the recovery.
The Inner West LGA is also performing well, with six growth suburbs and nine others with consistent buyer demand. Quarterly sales in Annandale have been 17-32-36-45-64, while Leichardt has been 59-68-77-105, patterns that will likely drive prices higher.
The Sydney City LGA has growth suburbs, but also shows the importance of not generalizing when discussing real estate in a major city. The central city LGA has five suburbs with growing sales activity, 11 with steady markets, three where demand continues to decline and one suburb which we classify as a danger market. All that diversity exists in one municipality. 
Blacktown is the strongest of the outer-ring markets, with five growth suburbs and 11 with steady sales activity. Schofields continues to stand out with rising sales activity – quarterly sales over the past two years have been 64-82-99-105-120-150-196-162.
Other LGAs with three or four growth suburbs include the Hills Shire, Ku-ring-gai, North Sydney and Sutherland municipalities.
This new survey also shows the recovery in the Canterbury-Bankstown area. Six months ago, 12 suburbs in this LGA were rated as declining markets, with sales levels dropping markedly. But now most of these suburbs have been re-classified as plateau markets, as sales levels start to improve. And four suburbs of the Canterbury-Bankstown LGA have shown sufficient revival to be classified as rising markets.
Across Greater Sydney, prices are reacting to the uplift in demand that is generally occurring in many locations, but most suburbs still have median prices below the levels of 12 months ago. This applies to 92% of suburbs for houses and 85% of suburbs for apartments.
But many suburbs have shown increases in the latest quarter. Examples include Mona Vale (median house price down 8% annually but up 2.3% in the latest quarter); Collaroy (down 15% in annual terms but up 9.5% quarter-to-quarter); Bronte (down 9% year-on-year but up 2.6% in the latest quarter); and Killara (down 15% annually but up 3% quarter-to-quarter). 
This is a pattern I expect to see becoming increasingly prevalent as the uplift being led by the more expensive areas spreads more widely across the metro area.
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">ryder@hotspotting.com.au </a>twitter.com/hotspotting
PICTURE SOURCE: <a class="external text" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/34120957@N04" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Alex Proimos</a>
</body></html>

<html><body>
The housing market on Sydney's Northern Beaches is heavily owner-occupier driven given its entry costs and lower than average yields.
They sits at 2.9% for houses according to SQM Research.
The desired yield ultimately comes down to investment strategy, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at yields across the country and dissected where to find the best returns in residential markets. 
The report notes higher yielding properties typically offer lower capital growth prospects.
"If you are not predicting market conditions to improve over the short to medium term, it may be a good opportunity to capitalise on a high yielding property, generate cash flow and achieve a higher annual rate of return over the short to medium term," the valuation firm said. 
"A severe lack of short-term accommodation options has resulted in Airbnb becoming a popular and lucrative investment model on the Northern Beaches, particularly when you consider how popular a destination the area is for weekend getaways, weddings and events." 
According to the HTW report, a popular investment product due to its entry level price point, prime location and strong rental marketability is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-manly-130920610" target="_blank"> </a>22 Central Avenue, Manly (pictured below).
The complex offers a mixture of studio and one bedroom apartments and gives a great indication of just how much short-term leasing can boost your yield to maximise cash generation. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-manly-130920610" target="_blank">809/22 Central Avenue</a>, Manly sold in August 2019 for $870,000 (pictured below).
The property would lease on an annual basis for $600 per week, equating to a gross yield of 3.58%.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/10/14/manly%202.jpg" alt="">
A near identical unit is currently on Airbnb for $150 per night.
This annualises to a potential fully let gross yield of 6.2%.
"Obviously not entirely realistic, but if we were to annualise the current bookings in the fourth quarter of 2019, the gross yield equates to 4.75%," the valuation firm said.
"Factoring in subsequent bookings through this period, a 5% gross yield is not out of the question and a tidy increase on the traditionally leased 3.58% yield."
</body></html>

Owner-occupier driven Northern Beaches market sees 2.9% yields for houses: HTW residential 

<html><body>
There would be no great surprise to most that the sub-$500,000 market is still thin in the Northern Beaches, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes there is currently a greater amount of stock, a wider variety and located in a number of additional suburbs than there has been for several years.
A Narrabeen sale in June for $450,000 with a 4.7% yield, a Balgowlah sale in April for $425,000 with a 4.8% yield, an Avalon sale in May for $450,000 with a 4.4% yield and a Dee Why sale in May for $450,000 with a five% yield, are all areas in which older style one-bedroom units have sold in 2019.
The report notes that the only suburb where a two-bedroom unit is available in this price range is Dee Why, with a unit at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-dee+why-130777654" target="_blank"> 2/7 Ilikai Place</a> (pictured above) scraping in at $500,000 even, enjoying a 4.7% yield.
"The product types and price bracket obviously appeal primarily to first home buyers and investors.
"Interestingly, four of the five examples have been subsequently listed for rent immediately after the sale, which is a good indication of the target market," the valuation firm said. 
Yields between 4-5% are fairly consistent across the board, with rents ranging between $380 and $465 per week for the above mentioned properties.
"By looking at buying the ugly duckling in a desired location, there is opportunity to create value and it is much easier to renovate than relocate your unit.
"Whilst there should be no expectation of any significant capital growth over the next 12-month period, there are some early market indicators that the worst may be behind us," the valuation firm said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/15/beacon%20hill.jpg" alt="">
The cheapest house sale of 2019 currently goes to 2 Ellis Road, Beacon Hill (pictured above), the HTW report noted
The sale represents the absolute bottom end of the market, selling at auction for $850,000 in February, well below the Beacon Hill median house price of $1,421,000, according to CoreLogic.
"As you can imagine, the price discount comes at a cost to the location and the quality of the existing improvements," the valuation firm commented. 
The property comprises the original circa 1960s timber weatherboard dwelling, situated on 538 square metres of land and adversely located on the corner of a busy intersection to Warringah Road.
</body></html>

Northern Beaches

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Northern Beaches

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News