Sydney developer Hyecorp's roots on the Lower North Shore stretch back three generations, and that deep understanding of the market continues to shape where and how it develops today.

From high-rise towers to boutique apartment projects, the family-run developer has built its reputation by focusing on a part of Sydney it knows intimately. Founded by Michael Abolakian in the early 1990s, Hyecorp is now led by his sons Stephen, Troy and Patrick.

Stephen Abolakian, joint managing director alongside Troy, has spent more than two decades in the business, overseeing development, planning, finance, marketing and sales.

Abolakian says the developer's disciplined focus on where it chooses to operate has been, and continues to be, one of Hyecorp's greatest strengths.

“We know the buyer profile exceptionally well,” Abolakian says.

“The demographics between places like Willoughby, Chatswood, St Leonards and Roseville are very similar. There are nuances between suburbs and projects, but culturally and from a buyer perspective, there’s a strong overlap.”

That buyer has historically been overwhelmingly owner-occupier driven.

Unlike many Sydney apartment developers that have traditionally relied heavily on investor demand, Hyecorp’s projects have typically attracted downsizers, upsizers, rightsizers and family owner-occupiers seeking long-term homes rather than short-term investments.

“Historically, investors have been a much smaller portion of our demand profile,” Abolakian says.

“We design for owner-occupiers. We don’t design for yield, we design for comfort, amenity, family living and long-term usability.”

That philosophy extends well beyond apartment layouts.

From landscaping and communal gardens to shared amenities and circulation spaces, Hyecorp’s developments are designed around how people actually live, something Abolakian believes has become increasingly important in Sydney’s apartment market.

“There was probably a period where having an approved project in market was enough,” he says.

“There wasn’t as much competition and if you built it, buyers would come. That’s no longer the case.”

“There’s more supply in the pipeline now, particularly with TOD precincts and low and mid-rise reforms opening up opportunities across Sydney. Buyers have more choice, so if you get the product wrong, they’ll simply go elsewhere.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=311393]

The shift has forced developers to become more sophisticated in how they approach apartment design, particularly as owner-occupier expectations continue to rise.

For Hyecorp, that means thinking beyond who the buyer is today and designing for who they may become in five or 10 years' time.

“People buying now often aren’t moving in for several years,” Abolakian says.

“You might have a young couple buying today, but by the time they move in they may have children, older children, or changing lifestyle needs. You’ve got to think about how families evolve.”

That thinking also shapes Hyecorp’s approach to amenity, which positions wellness at the forefront.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362634]

While resort-style facilities have become increasingly common marketing tools across Sydney apartment developments, Abolakian says the challenge is ensuring amenities are genuinely usable and appropriate for the scale of the project.

“If amenities are done right, they can materially improve the living experience,” he says, adding however that if you&nbsp;overdo it or get it wrong, you can end up with facilities nobody uses that simply create ongoing strata costs.”

That balance is something Hyecorp is aiming to strike with projects like Roseville Avenue, one of the group's upcoming Lower North Shore developments, which Abolakian describes as bringing a resort-style living experience into a metropolitan setting.

“It’s about creating something that feels special without being excessive,” he says.

“Good gardens, quality apartments, thoughtful amenity. Creating that resort feeling in a metro location.”

<img alt="Hyecorp" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="13c4c0f3-b1b7-44cf-9344-0b3d1d07797a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-02%20at%2012.14.57%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=9OLWjyj2bYkDV35F78WJnyMSPfc2bJ2z" />

The focus on owner-occupier product comes as Sydney’s apartment market continues to navigate a difficult development environment.&nbsp;For Hyecorp, maintaining an in-house operating model across construction, sales, marketing and development management has become increasingly important in navigating that environment.

“We’ve always believed in keeping a lot of the process in-house,” Abolakian says.

“It creates efficiencies, but it also creates quality control. You can make faster decisions and ensure the end product stays aligned with the original vision.”

Despite the challenges, Abolakian believes demand for quality owner-occupier apartments across Sydney remains strong beneath the surface, particularly across established Lower North Shore suburbs where downsizers continue to seek new housing options close to existing communities.

“There are definitely people waiting,” he says.

“Once some of the broader uncertainty settles, whether that’s the global environment or some of the local economic noise, I think the right projects will perform very strongly.”

Hyecorp currently has three residential developments on the market across Sydney’s Lower North Shore.&nbsp;Audrey, St Leonards, positioned opposite Newlands Park, is nearing completion and preparing to welcome its first residents, with the project now almost sold out.

Hyecorp has also recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celine-chatswood-37-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Celine Chatswood</a>, an architectural tower, while continuing to deliver&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet Roseville</a>, a more boutique scale of development with just 34 apartments.

Joel Robinson

Why Hyecorp continues to back Sydney's Lower North Shore apartment market

South East Queensland’s apartment market is entering a new phase defined by rising prices, constrained affordability, and mounting pressure on the construction pipeline, according to RPM Group’s latest SEQ Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report.

The May 2026 report highlights a widening divide between what buyers can afford and what developers can viably deliver, with detached house prices continuing to push more buyers toward apartments across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.

RPM says Brisbane’s median house price has reached around $1.5 million, accelerating the shift toward higher-density housing as buyers are increasingly priced out of the detached market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

Median unit prices rose across all three major SEQ markets in the March quarter. Brisbane City recorded the strongest annual growth, with median unit prices climbing 21 per cent to $862,000, while the Gold Coast reached the highest overall median at $950,000, up 17 per cent year-on-year. The Sunshine Coast followed at $870,000, representing annual growth of nine per cent.

RPM noted the affordability gap between houses and units remains significant, with detached homes commanding premiums of 67 per cent in Brisbane and 68 per cent on the Gold Coast relative to apartments.

The report suggests this price disparity is increasingly consolidating buyer demand within the apartment market, particularly among downsizers and owner-occupiers.

“Demand is real. Supply is moving. But they’re operating on different timelines and the gap between what’s being built and what buyers can afford is the defining tension in this market right now,” RPM Queensland and NSW Managing Directors Peter Neale and Clinton Trezise said in the report.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

While approvals and commencements are strengthening, RPM argues the delivery pipeline remains constrained by construction costs, labour shortages, and extended build timelines.

Apartment approvals across Queensland increased 86 per cent over the year to February 2026, reaching 12,682 approvals, the highest level recorded since 2016. Brisbane overtook the Gold Coast as the state’s most active apartment approval market, with nearly 5,000 apartments approved over the past 12 months.

Unit commencements also strengthened considerably, rising 48 per cent year-on-year to 5,453 commencements in the December 2025 quarter, the highest level since 2018.

However, RPM’s research found apartment delivery timeframes have expanded sharply compared to the previous cycle. Projects are now averaging around 30 months from approval to completion, compared to roughly 20 months a decade ago.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367515]

The number of units under construction has climbed to approximately 31,530 dwellings, nearing the previous 2016 peak, though projects are remaining in the pipeline for considerably longer.

Construction costs continue to weigh heavily on feasibility. RPM found the average apartment construction cost in Greater Brisbane reached $630,000 per dwelling in 2025, exceeding both Sydney and Melbourne. Coastal Queensland markets, including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, were even higher at an average of $817,418 per apartment due to the prevalence of larger premium product.

The report also points to increasing pressure from Olympic-related infrastructure spending ahead of Brisbane 2032, with labour competition expected to intensify over the next several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370960]

ANZ Associate Director of Property Daniel Gradwell said the underlying demand drivers across South East Queensland remain strong, supported by interstate migration, downsizers, and population growth.

“The challenge is bringing enough supply to market to meet that demand, and nothing on the horizon makes that straightforward,” Gradwell said.

RPM’s analysis found the affordability challenge is becoming more pronounced in the new apartment market itself, with only three per cent of surveyed new apartments priced below $1 million.

Instead, the market is increasingly concentrated in higher price brackets, with the most common new apartment price band across SEQ sitting between $1.5 million and $1.75 million. Around half of all new apartment stock surveyed is priced below $2 million.

The report suggests developers are not necessarily avoiding lower price points by choice, but because current construction economics make delivering affordable apartments increasingly difficult at scale.

Rental conditions also remain tight across the region. Median rents for one-bedroom apartments rose 12 per cent in Brisbane over the past year to $580 per week, while Gold Coast one-bedroom rents increased nine per cent to $630.

Despite rising rents, RPM noted bond lodgements have generally trended downward over the past five years, indicating more apartments are being absorbed by owner-occupiers rather than retained as investor-held rental stock.

Looking ahead, RPM expects projects targeting the mid-market owner-occupier segment between $1.25 million and $2 million to remain the most viable part of the market, while premium projects in highly constrained coastal or riverfront locations continue to attract demand.

“Construction costs are rewriting the feasibility rulebook across Greater Brisbane, and with little relief in sight, only projects in the right price band, right location, and with presales secured early will make it through,” the report concludes.

SEQ apartment demand outpacing affordable supply as construction timelines stretch: RPM

Camberwell Junction has long been the epicentre of amenity in Melbourne’s Boroondara region.

For nearly a century, it has drawn both locals and visitors, anchored by the Camberwell Sunday Market, which first operated in 1929 and quickly became a fixture of the suburb’s identity. Over time, the Junction evolved into one of Melbourne’s most established retail and lifestyle precincts, now comprising more than 400 stores and over 300 commercial businesses.

Despite that depth of amenity, one thing has remained notably limited: the supply of new apartments.

In a suburb defined by its heritage streetscapes and tightly held residential stock, new development opportunities have been scarce, particularly within the core of the Junction itself. That lack of supply has left a gap in the market for larger, design-led apartments suited to downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in the area.

Boutique developer Above Zero identified that gap when it secured a prime site on Burke Road, in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368543]

The site has a long planning history. Various proposals have been put forward over more than a decade, many of which were knocked back by the City of Boroondara, with initial applications dating back to 2015. Above Zero acquired the site in 2022 and returned with a revised scheme, refining both the building’s height and its ground-level interface to better align with Council expectations.

That process has culminated in approval for Camberwell House.

The Cera Stribley-designed development will deliver 57 residences on a 1,950 sqm site within the Camberwell Activity Centre, placing it directly within one of Melbourne’s most established retail and transport hubs.

It is expected to be one of the only new apartment developments to launch in the Junction in recent years, reinforcing the rarity of new supply in the precinct. Currently, there are just a handful of projects on the market in Camberwell, underscoring the significance of a development of this scale and positioning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368544]

Camberwell House has been conceived with a clear focus on larger-format apartments. The project will offer a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, alongside a limited number of penthouses, targeting owner-occupiers seeking scale rather than volume-driven product.

The building’s vertical presence will also set it apart.

Positioned on Burke Road, the development is set to become one of the taller buildings in its immediate context, allowing for elevated outlooks across Melbourne’s CBD skyline and toward the Dandenong Ranges. In a precinct characterised by lower-scale built form, that height provides a point of differentiation, particularly for buyers seeking outlook and natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368568]

Architecture has been led by Cera Stribley, with interiors by GOLDEN and landscape design by Florian Wild. The design approach centres on material consistency and restraint, with residences oriented to maximise light, ventilation and connection to outdoor spaces.

Full-height glazing and generous terraces form a key part of that strategy, allowing apartments to extend beyond their internal footprint and engage with the surrounding environment.

Beyond the private residences, a significant component of the project is its amenity offering.

Above Zero has positioned Camberwell House as a “complete living environment”, incorporating a full floor dedicated to resident facilities. At the centre of that is a wellness zone, including a 12.5-metre lap pool, spa, sauna and treatment spaces, alongside a gym and recovery-focused amenities.

This level of amenity is more commonly associated with inner-city developments, rather than established middle-ring suburbs like Camberwell.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368588]

Additional shared spaces include a private library lounge, dining and entertaining areas, and an indoor golf simulator. A self-contained guest suite has also been incorporated, allowing residents to accommodate visiting family or friends without impacting their primary living space.

The inclusion of these facilities reflects a broader shift in buyer expectations.

As more downsizers look to transition from larger family homes into apartments, there is increasing demand for developments that offer not just a residence, but a lifestyle. That includes access to wellness, social and entertaining spaces within the building itself, reducing the reliance on external amenity while still maintaining proximity to established precincts.

Camberwell House is positioned to benefit from both.

Its location places it within immediate walking distance of Camberwell Junction’s retail and dining offering, as well as public transport connections, including tram and train services. That combination of internal amenity and external convenience is central to its appeal.

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Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is handling sales for the project and says Camberwell House offers a rare entry point into one of Melbourne’s most tightly held markets.

“Buyers are recognising that Camberwell House offers something they simply haven’t seen before in Boroondara,”&nbsp;Bowtell&nbsp;says.

“It combines a level of resident amenity and service typically associated with Melbourne’s premium inner-city developments, while being positioned right in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

“The response to the concierge offering has been particularly strong. Buyers appreciate not only the convenience, but also the sense of security and peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated presence in the building every day.

“When you combine that with the wellness facilities, the exceptional arrival experience, and panoramic views across both the CBD skyline and the Dandenong Ranges, it creates a lifestyle proposition that is genuinely unique within the local market.”
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4896]

Above Zero launches Camberwell House in undersupplied Camberwell Junction precinct

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150489]

CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Office Market

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GUEST OBSERVER
The CBD office markets of Australia are in the midst of an unusual dynamic.
Sydney and Melbourne are in full rental growth and vacancy decline mode, while the other CBDs have low or negative rental growth, and vacancy rates in the double digits.
This is the first time since records began that the office markets have diverged to such an extent, and is reflective of the wider demographic and trends being felt in each state. That is, strong migration growth and employment growth in Sydney and Melbourne, and slowing population growth in the other states. 
Sydney 
The Sydney CBD office market is transitioning and opportunistic landlords have aggressively increased rents and reduced incentives as available office space diminishes. Almost 150,000 sqm of space will be withdrawn from the market by the end of 2017, as a result of the Sydney Metro project, as well as residential conversions. Over the short term tenant demand will outweigh net supply, maintaining downward pressure on vacancy rates until 2019. 
<img src="/images/2016/08/22/Colliersofficemarket.jpg" alt="">
Adelaide 
Despite the weakness in the Adelaide leasing market, there are signs that there is a pick-up in demand over the next 12 months. Enquiry has begun to improve and we are heading into a period of several large lease expiries which may be the catalyst for tenants to move. Access Economics are also forecasting an improvement in white collar employment during the first half of 2017. Most of which is likely to be through growth in small to medium enterprise. 
Perth 
The rise in vacancy in the Perth CBD – from 16.6 per cent in June 2015 to 21.8 per cent in June 2016 – combined with soft demand, continued to put pressure on landlords to reduce rents and offer higher incentives. Despite these efforts by landlords, net absorption remains subdued. This is a reflection of depressed business confidence and white collar labour market conditions. However, greater affordability has underpinned growth in demand from CBD and suburban tenants aspiring to migrate to a CBD address. This is expected to have a positive impact on net absorption going forward. 
Canberra 
Investor appetite in the Canberra CBD has improved, with a greater mix of investors generated by a high proportion of new entrants to the market. Recent lease deals indicate a slight shift of bargaining power toward landlords as tenant choice has decreased in some areas and sub markets. An increase in leasing activity and net absorption has placed downward pressure on vacancy and we expect vacancy levels to fall from 13.0 per cent currently to 11.0 per cent by July 2017. 
Melbourne 
Unusually for Melbourne, there were no new developments completed in the rst half of 2016, which resulted in the vacancy rate tightening by 80 basis points to 7.0 per cent during this period. Tenants looking for quality assets will have limited options over the next three years, given that the new wave of CBD core supply is only expected to come through in 2019/2020. Nearly all new supply being completed over the 2nd half of 2016 is spoken for by pre-committed tenants. 
Brisbane 
It is expected that Brisbane will continue to be a tenant’s market for the foreseeable future given the volume of vacant and sublease space available. The State Government has been increasingly active taking advantage of the favourable leasing conditions. Leasing enquiry has remained soft in the CBD market however, despite the soft leasing conditions, institutional investors have been active over the last 12 months, fiercely competing for prime stock when it has been brought to market. 
This article by Anneke Thompson appeared as part of Colliers International's CBD Office Research &amp; Forecast Report H2 2016. She is the national director of Research and can be contacted <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Divergence in Australia’s CBD office markets unprecedented: Colliers

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Vacancy in Sydney’s fringe office market in Sydney has fallen to its lowest in more than a decade, driven by acquisitions for rail projects and an overall supply squeeze, according to latest research from property firm Savills.
The western suburb of Parramatta recorded the lowest fringe market vacancy at 4.5 percent, its lowest in 25 years including zero vacancy in A Grade, and is just ahead of Melbourne’s Southbank at 4.6 percent. 
The falling vacancy is driving growth in net effective rents, and with the NSW government’s announcement of registered projects totalling $390 million in Parramatta last week and Winten Property Group’s acquisition of a development site at 1 Denison St, North Sydney, developers are taking notice, says Savills.
According to Savills senior analyst Research &amp; Consultancy Houssam Yakzan, average prime net face rents have increased by around 8 percent in North Shore markets and 7 per ent in Parramatta, with corresponding falls in incentives.  
The combined North Shore vacancy, including North Sydney, Crows Nest/St Leonards, Chatswood and Macquarie Park-North Ryde stands at 7.2 percent, the lowest since the 5.3 percent figure recorded in 2001. 
Of the individual North Shore markets, North Sydney and North Ryde/Macquarie Park recorded their lowest vacancies since 2012, Chatswood since 2007 and Crows Nest/St Leonards since 2001.
Yakzan said in the 12 months to June Savills had identified 73,781 square metres of leasing activity in the North Shore market, up 49 percent on the 12 months prior, while 43,977 square metres of leasing was recorded in the Parramatta market, which was down 32 percent due to the limited availability of space.
<a href="/images/2016/08/19/North%20shore%20absorbtion.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a> 
North Shore's net absorption
<img src="/images/2016/08/19/North%20shore%20absorbtion.jpg" alt="" width="312" height="197">
<a href="/images/2016/08/19/Parramatta%20absorbtion.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge</a> Parramatta's net absorption
<img src="/images/2016/08/19/Parramatta%20absorbtion.jpg" alt="" width="294" height="187">
 
Savills director of office leasing, Simon Van Grootel, said while there was no doubt the Sydney non-CBD office markets had picked up over the last 12 to 18 months, withdrawals for the compulsory metro rail acquisitions, residential and hotel conversion, and the lack of new supply, were key contributors to the lower vacancy rates.
He said more than 42,500 square metres of stock had been withdrawn from the North Shore market alone in the 12 months to June and further withdrawals were already slated for 2017.
"Vacancy rates have fallen across the board, indeed Parramatta has a zero vacancy in A Grade, and that is very pleasing, indicating perhaps the strongest market we have seen post-GFC.
"That has seen rental growth and incentives decline and those factors along with continued withdrawals and continued falls in vacancy are going to drive new construction but in the current market, that is likely to require pre-commitment,’’ Van Grootel said.
The state figure of $390 million in registered office projects for Parramatta would not dent vacancy rates in the short to medium term, he added.
Senior analyst Yakzan said of 220,000 square metres of new commercial development in the Parramatta market, 155,000 square metres was subject to pre-commitment and the remainder was already leased. 
Parramatta is the fifth largest suburban office market in Australia with 682,469 square metres of stock while the combined North Shore market totals 2,288,399 square metres including North Sydney (792,482sqm), Crows Nest/ St Leonards (333,631sqm), Chatswood (278,919sqm) and North Ryde/ Macquarie Park (883,367sqm).
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Sydney fringe office market records lowest vacancy in a decade: Savills

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Sydney offers the most attractive office investment yields at 5.62 percent among international gateway cities even as the world sees a fall in yields, says new research from Savills and Deakin University.
The World Office Yield Spectrum, which compares 54 cities across Asia, Europe, the United States and Australia, confirms that office property is the asset class of choice as investors scour global cities for the most attractive yields in the most secure markets.
Apart from Sydney, LA West and San Francisco are the only other gateway cities offering yields above 4.5 per cent. 
The report found yields had firmed by an average 32 basis points across the 11 gateway cities since December 2014 with both Munich and Tokyo’s yield falling 55 basis points, Hong Kong 40 basis points and Sydney a whopping 100 basis points. Singapore, at 4 per cent, saw yields soften 15 basis points in response to slower economic conditions.
Of the 54 cities, London’s West End, at 2.82 per cent, was the only other city to record a sub 3 per cent yield with Hong Kong, while Ho Chi Minh City (9.36 per cent) and Hanoi (9.00 per cent) offered the highest yield, however those yields reflected a perception of greater investment risk.
Report editor, Savills’ national head of Research in Australia, Tony Crabb, said 10-year bond yields had fallen by an average of 50 basis points around the world in the past six months, averaging around 1 per cent with negative rates in Japan and Germany.
“Property yields have continued to firm but bond yields are falling faster and, in that context, investors are viewing risk premiums of between 2 and 3 per cent in most office investment markets as fair value,’’ Crabb said.
The uncertain economic environment in most markets globally means office risk premiums would offer better value and hence drive greater demand and even firmer office yields, he added.
<a href="/images/2016/08/17/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-17%20at%2010.50.20%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/17/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-17%20at%2010.50.20%20PM.png" alt="">
“Much of what happens in 2017 and beyond will depend on the course the US Federal Reserve takes with regards to interest rates. Chairman Yellen has made it perfectly clear that movements will be ‘data dependent’, so we wait.”
“The movements in US interest rates will determine how currencies behave, how trade flows and how capital moves around the world,’’ Crabb said.
He said the outlook for office yields was likely to be one of further compression, particularly in gateway cities like Sydney where strengthening fundamentals were beginning to drive rental growth.
“Firming yields in many instances could be viewed as counter-intuitive as soft leasing markets have resulted in very high incentives and correspondingly low net rents, and so any growth in net effective rents, and thus returns, is certainly going to drive even greater demand for office property and ultimately firmer yields,” he said.
In Australia, large capital from overseas had encouraged many investors to dispose of property, rebalance portfolios and change their exposure which had led to a record 12 months turnover of nearly $33.4 billion in commercial property sales, said Crabb.
However, market fundamentals show the two-tone nature of the Australian economy with some indicators deteriorating in Perth and Brisbane, in contrast to improvements in Melbourne and Sydney. 
“Commercial property investment yields have firmed across the board but we still do not believe it has fully run its course. In some markets, fundamentals are improving rapidly and that improvement will lead to further tightening in yields as investment capital starts to price in expectations of future NOI growth. This part of the yield cycle is just beginning.’’
 
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Commercial property investment yields have firmed across the board: Savills/Deakin University research

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When it comes to office investment yields, Sydney is the standout leader. The harbour city leads a list of 11 gateway cities across the world tracked by real estate firm Savills and Deakin University.
Even as global yields slip, Sydney offers an investment yield at 5.62 percent, according to the World Office Yield Spectrum, with LA West and San Francisco the only other gateway cities offering yields above 4.5 per cent. 
The research, which compares 54 cities across Asia, Europe, the United States and Australia, is confirmation that office property is the asset of choice for investors looking for the most attractive yields in secure markets.
The report found yields had firmed by an average 32 basis points across the 11 gateway cities since December 2014 with both Munich and Tokyo’s yield falling 55 basis points, Hong Kong 40 basis points and Sydney a whopping 100 basis points. Singapore, at 4 per cent, saw yields soften 15 basis points in response to slower economic conditions.
Of the 54 cities, London’s West End, at 2.82 per cent, was the only other city to record a sub 3 per cent yield with Hong Kong, while Ho Chi Minh City (9.36 per cent) and Hanoi (9.00 per cent) offered the highest yield, however those yields reflected a perception of greater investment risk.
Report editor, Savills’ national head of Research in Australia, Tony Crabb, said 10-year bond yields had fallen by an average of 50 basis points around the world in the past six months, averaging around 1 per cent with negative rates in Japan and Germany.
“Property yields have continued to firm but bond yields are falling faster and, in that context, investors are viewing risk premiums of between 2 and 3 per cent in most office investment markets as fair value,’’ Crabb said.
The uncertain economic environment in most markets globally means office risk premiums would offer better value and hence drive greater demand and even firmer office yields, he added.
<a href="/images/2016/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-17%20at%2010.50.20%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-08-17%20at%2010.50.20%20PM.png" alt="">
“Much of what happens in 2017 and beyond will depend on the course the US Federal Reserve takes with regards to interest rates. Chairman Yellen has made it perfectly clear that movements will be ‘data dependent’, so we wait.”
“The movements in US interest rates will determine how currencies behave, how trade flows and how capital moves around the world,’’ Crabb said.
He said the outlook for office yields was likely to be one of further compression, particularly in cities like Sydney where strengthening fundamentals were beginning to drive rental growth.
“Firming yields in many instances could be viewed as counter-intuitive as soft leasing markets have resulted in very high incentives and correspondingly low net rents, and so any growth in net effective rents, and thus returns, is certainly going to drive even greater demand for office property and ultimately firmer yields,” he said.
In Australia, large capital from overseas had encouraged many investors to dispose of property, rebalance portfolios and change their exposure which had led to a record 12 months turnover of nearly $33.4 billion in commercial property sales, said Crabb.
However, market fundamentals show the two-tone nature of the Australian economy with some indicators deteriorating in Perth and Brisbane, in contrast to improvements in Melbourne and Sydney. 
“Commercial property investment yields have firmed across the board but we still do not believe it has fully run its course. In some markets, fundamentals are improving rapidly and that improvement will lead to further tightening in yields as investment capital starts to price in expectations of future NOI growth. This part of the yield cycle is just beginning.’’
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Sydney leads world on office yields: Savills/Deakin Uni research

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DEXUS Property Group (DEXUS) has posted a strong 2016 financial result.
Dexus are Australia's largest office landlord with 1.8 million sqm of office space under management.
They have grown their third party funds from $5.6 billion in FY12 to $11.2 billion.
“Four years ago we reset our strategy to focus our business on Australian office property and third party funds management," said DEXUS CEO Darren Steinberg.
"Over the past four years, we have improved our efficiency reducing our Management Expense Ratio from 67 basis points to 35 basis points.
"At the same time, we have continued to maintain a strong balance sheet, and with recent divestments this further strengthens our position.
“We have fostered a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, invested in our people to build their capabilities and enhanced our customers’ experience, delivering new products and services.
“We have expanded our development pipeline and identified trading opportunities, positioning the portfolio for future growth.
Darren said DEXUS are expecting to deliver a solid result in FY17 despite recent divestments.
"We expect underlying FFO per security to grow by 3.0-3.5 percent and distribution per security by 2.5-3.5 percent.”
DEXUS FY17 Highlights
Funds from Operations1 (FFO) of $610.8 million, up 12 percent on FY15
Adjusted Funds from Operations2 (AFFO) of $413.9 million, up 12 percent on FY15
Statutory net profit of $1,259.8 million, up 104 percent on FY15, driven primarily by revaluations
FFO per security of 63.1 cents and distribution per security of 43.51 cents, both up 6 percent on FY15
Return on Equity3 of 19.3 percent and an average of 12.2 percent over the past four years
Group Management Expense Ratio4 of 35bps, down 6bps from 41bps at FY15
Net tangible assets (NTA) per security of $7.53 at 30 June 2016, up 13 percent or 85 cents from 30 June 2015
Gearing5 of 30.7 percent8 
 
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Dexus Property Group post strong 2016 financial result

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GUEST OBSERVER
Office metro markets, like CBD markets, are driven by factors which differ from state to state and region to region, so any discussion of a ‘national’ metro market only serves to mask the various drivers of each of these markets. 
There’s no question that long-overdue Infrastructure investment along the eastern seaboard will be the primary driver of growth in metro markets in the coming decade.
According to Colliers Metro Office Research and Forecast Report- first half 2016, over 33 buildings in Sydney’s metro markets will be compulsorily acquired for the Metro Rail, putting downward pressure on vacancies and upward pressure on rents. In fact, many metro markets are now at a tipping point, with the first real opportunity since the GFC to experience significant growth.
But where will the positive effects be most strongly felt?
NSW is where the strength is
At the moment, the NSW state economy is the strongest in the nation, with robust employment growth and a healthy surplus. It is also the hub for infrastructure development, with projects like the Sydney Metro, WestConnex and the Parramatta Light Rail set to come online in the next 10 years.
The most recent state budget revealed a total spend of $68.6 billion over the next four years alone, a very positive scenario for those metro markets in line to receive infrastructure upgrades.
This is because efficient transport links allow for greater connectivity across all metro markets, and in turn, increase the attractiveness of metro accommodation to a broader tenant base.
In further good news, the stock withdrawal story we are seeing in the Sydney CBD market holds true in a number of other NSW metro markets. Colliers reports that between January 2015 and January 2016, metro office stock decreased Australia-wide from 7.34 million sqm to 7.29 million sqm as a result of withdrawal for residential conversion or infrastructure development.
As the same time, we have not seen the same influx of offshore money into these markets as we have in the major CBD office markets. With offshore investors continuing to favour CBDs, investors in metro markets are still predominately domestic. The proportion of domestic investors, compared with international investors is continuing to grow with Colliers reporting that domestic investors made up 55 percent of the acquisitions in 2013, 60 percent in 2014 and 65 percent in 2015.
Centuria’s ASX-listed Metropolitan REIT invests purely in metropolitan office and industrial assets across Sydney, Brisbane, Canberra and Adelaide. These assets have been valued at $396.7 million. Decreasing vacancies and increasing values have seen this fund trading well amongst both institutional and retail investors, highlighting the investor appetite for metro investment.   
Sydney’s north shore metro markets set to shine
In our view, some of the strongest metro markets are to be found on Sydney’s north shore, where the positive combination of residential conversion with acquisitions made for Metro stations will translate into improved vacancy and rental levels in the next few years.  
For example, fifteen commercial properties will be demolished along the north shore, in to make way for the Sydney Metro. At the same time, all new development is focused on residential accommodation, and with no new commercial development slated we expect a further tightening of supply and upward pressure on commercial rents.
As a result of the positive fundamentals, Centuria recently completed the purchase of part of the Zenith office tower in Chatswood, an area which we see as a major beneficiary of the Sydney Metro. Stage 1 from the northwest to Chatswood is scheduled for completion in 2019, and the second stage from Chatswood to the southwest via the CBD will put Chatswood right at the heart of Sydney’s transport network.
The most recent PCA figures show vacancy rates have dropped back to 6.6 percent in Chatswood which is the lowest vacancy rate for many years. We also expect demand to increase further due to the strong transport links already in place in Chatswood and the absence of any significant increase in supply. 
Looking forward, we are confident that Chatswood status as a major commercial and residential hub will be cemented by the benefits of the major infrastructure spend by the NSW State Government. 
Positive fundamentals in the CBD fringe, particularly in the south
Vacancies continue to fall in the city fringe as a result of leasing growth on the back of demand from tenants displaced by withdrawals for infrastructure and residential projects in both the CBD and locally.
The Southern CBD and fringe areas are undergoing a renaissance on the back of proximity to the rapidly growing residential area of South Sydney as well as demand from tenants displaced by the metro line. This area is particularly popular with advertising and media companies, resulting in over 10,000 sqm of demand in the six months to January 2016, according to Colliers. 
In late 2015, in conjunction with Mirvac, we acquired commercial property within the Australian Technology Park south of Sydney. The site is 14 hectares, three kilometres south of the Sydney CBD on the site of a $1 billion development for CBA, which we believe will have wide-ranging positive impacts on the broader Central to Eveleigh corridor.
So what’s the bottom line?  Our house view is that tenant demand for metro locations will continue to strengthen as CBD vacancy rates fall. Withdrawal of A and B grade stock for residential conversion and/or infrastructure development will leave many tenants in this market seeking cost effective solutions in those suburbs with good (and improving) transport links.
This means markets such as Chatswood, and the southern fringe of the CBD are likely to benefit. We have already taken advantage of a number of opportunities with compelling value, such as our purchase, in conjunction with global investment manager BlackRock, of The Zenith in Chatswood.
Ultimately, we remain convinced that the fundamentals of these metro markets in NSW make them ideally suited to providing stable, high yields and potential for capital growth that our investors have come to expect.
 Jason Huljich is chief executive officer, Unlisted Property Funds for <a href="https://centuria.com.au" target="_blank">Centuria</a>.
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NSW office metro markets set to shine

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Leasing activity in the Brisbane CBD office market grew nearly 30 percent in the 12 months to June 2016, and the CBD now comprises around 2.27 million square metres of lettable space, according to Savills research.
Two new prime grade office buildings (180 Brisbane and 480 Queen St) were added to the stock recently.
Of the total lettable space, Premium Grade accounts for around 11 percent of office space. A Grade quality offers 41 percent of space and is now the largest category, while B Grade accounts for 36 percent. C and D Grades offer the balance 13 percent.
Savills' CBD Office Market Briefing for the second quarter of 2016 has identified 117,437 square metres of leasing activity (&gt; 500 sq m) in the Brisbane CBD in the 12 months to June 2016, up 27 per cent from a year earlier but down on the five year average (123,357 square metres). The majority of these leases (nearly 60 per cent of space leased) were in the Uptown precinct.
The Brisbane CBD office leasing market looks to have turned a corner with 2016 showing encouraging signs of improved tenant demand. Competitive rents and incentive packages on offer are continuing to attract smaller businesses from the Fringe and Suburban precincts of metropolitan Brisbane.
The Queensland State Government has been quite active in the take up of space in the CBD, which is boosting overall business confidence. With 1 William Street nearing completion some government agencies have started to review their space requirements and taking up addtional space around the CBD.
Overall leasing activity in the Brisbane CBD is trending upwards with direct leases almost double that recorded 12 months ago. Of the 117,437 square metres of leased space, 86 per cent were direct leases, followed by sublease deals accounting for 7 per cent for the year ending June 2016.
Renewals accounted for 6,150 square metres or 5 percent of reported leases for the year.
The competitive rental environment continues to see increased demand for A Grade stock, while secondary stock also continues to attract tenants with a number undergoing refurbishments improving the overall amenity the building. 127 Creek Street is one such example of a B Grade building that has undergone a major refurbishment which included transforming full floors into small suites to accommodate demand from smaller businesses moving to the CBD.
<a href="/images/2016/08/05/BrisbaneCBD.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2016/08/05/BrisbaneCBD.png" alt="">
While Deloitte’s predict soft employment growth over 2016, tenant demand from businesses relocating to the CBD will likely contribute to absorption levels.
Latest figures on total absorption will not be available until the Property Council release their Office Market Report in August however Savills Prime Full Floor availability report suggests approximately 32,000 square metres of prime office space has been filled since the start of 2016.
Demand for office space continues to come from varied sources such as child care, health, education and incubator businesses as well as an expanding State Government.
Of the 118,937 square metres leased in Brisbane CBD (&gt;500 sq m) in the last 12 months, the ‘Government &amp; Community’ sector was the dominant sector, leasing 26 percent of the stock, or 31,170 square metres.
<a href="/images/2016/08/05/BrisbaneCBDchart.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/08/05/BrisbaneCBDchart.png" alt="">
Compared to 12 months ago, the tenant profile of reported leases has changed. The ‘Government &amp; Community’ sector, which has typically held a large share of the market, businesses involved in the ‘Education &amp; Training’, and ‘Healthcare’ sectors are increasing their take up of space in the CBD, while the ‘IT &amp; Communications’ sector is also beginning to show increased activity.
The largest number of transactions however was in the ‘Property &amp; Business services’ sector which recorded 21 transactions.
Of the 31,170 square metres of space leased to the ‘Govt &amp; Community’ sector, 55 per cent was taken by the Queensland State Government.
‘IT &amp; Communication’ recorded 14,242 square metres of leased space for the 12 months ending June. At 12 per cent of total reported leases, this is the highest level of activity in over ten years. Historically, this sector has accounted for less than five per cent of office leasing activity in the Brisbane CBD. SMS Management &amp; Technology are one such firm who secured 1,230 square metres in 259 Queen Street, while Red Hat renewed their space over four levels in 193 North Quay.
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Brisbane CBD office leasing market turns corner, tenant demand improves: Savills

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The Adelaide office market has about 1.6 million square metre of lettable space.
The CBD precinct, bound by North, West, South and East Terrace, accommodates nearly 1.4 million square metres of office space and is the sixth largest CBD office market in Australia, according to Savills' CBD Office Market Briefing for the second quarter of 2016.
Outside of the CBD, lettable office space is classified as Fringe and is predominantly B and C grade office accommodation. 
In the 12 months to June 2016, Savills identified approximately 90,000 square metres of leasing activity in the central Adelaide office market, including Adelaide CBD and Fringe areas. Although this an increase on activity levels 12 months prior, it is close to the five year average of approximately 87,000 square metres.
The majority of these leases (approximately 60 percent of the volume identified leased) were in the Adelaide Core precinct. Around 60 percent of the deals reported in the 12 months to June 2016 period were new tenants, while approximately 37 percent were renewals, with the balance sub-lease and pre-commitment deals. Of the 90,000 square metres identified leased in central Adelaide in the 12 months to June 2016, the ‘Government and Community’ dominated activity by volume of space leased. However, the ‘Property and Business Services’ sector had the greatest number of transactions.
A selection of recent leasing transactions is displayed in the tables below.
<a href="/images/2016/07/22/Adelaide-CBD%20office%20lease.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/22/Adelaide-CBD%20office%20lease.png" alt="">
Savills’ Adelaide Lease Expiry Report analyses a database of lettable floor space in the CBD and fringe office markets. As at the June 2016 report, it is estimated that an average of 105,000 square metres of leased space in the CBD will come up for renewal each year for the next three years.
Around 40 percent of this space is leased by the ‘Government &amp; Community’ sector and Industry’ sector, one of Adelaide’s largest occupiers, however, more than 50 percent of space due for expiry over the next three years is a combination of the ‘Property &amp; Business services’, ‘Mining &amp; Utilities &amp; Industry’ and ‘Finance and Insurance’ sectors.
<a href="/images/2016/07/22/Adelaide-CBD%20office%20graphic.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/22/Adelaide-CBD%20office%20graphic.png" alt="">
In the short-term there is likely to be ongoing demand from tenants seeking to rationalise existing space, as well as from those seeking expand or upgrade into new space. A number of firms have sought to rationalise space requirements through relocation strategies, including the consolidation of separate tenancies to increase business continuity and lower costs. Others firms have upgraded and taken on expansion space.
The largest example of this includes the Department of Water and Natural Resources who has consolidated staff from two sites, including Chesser House at 91-97 King William Street and 1 Richmond Road, Keswick, into one tenancy at 81-95 Waymouth Street. The building had previously been occupied by the Australian Taxation Office before they relocated to their new premises in 2013. An internal upgrade was completed recently. The State Government will occupy the top five floors, with the balance, some 6,000 square metres, seeking prospective tenants.
Bupa has taken one floor in the new 50 Flinders Street development to consolidate offices.
The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (Government) has committed to lease two floors at 1 King William Street in a rationalisation strategy, reducing space requirements by about 500 square metres in the move. UniSuper has also leased a part-floor in 1 King William Street, understood to be slightly larger than their premises in 80 King William Street.
In a more recent deal, Hudson has relocated from 75 Hindmarsh Square to 101 Pirie Street, similarly rationalising about 500 square metres in the move.
Morgan Stanley has also relocated, moving from 115 Grenfell Street to 2 King William Street recently, although only reduced space requirements by about 100 square metres.
As at June 2016, net face rents in Adelaide CBD typically range from $395 to $460 per square metre per annum for Premium Grade, $330 to $410 per square metre per annum for A Grade and $265 to $335 per square metre per annum for B Grade. In Adelaide’s Fringe, as at June 2016, net face rents typically range from $330 to $355 per square metre per annum for A Grade and $270 to $300 per square metre for B Grade. Since Q2 2015 incentives have been stable and net effective rental levels are showing signs of growth, albeit at low levels.
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Adelaide CBD is the sixth largest CBD office market in Australia: Savills

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Investors splashed nearly $18 billion on Australian office property in the 12 months to June -- up almost 35 percent on the five-year average -- with foreign investors taking the lion’s share in CBDs, according to Savills Australia’s latest research.
Office sales in Australia have seen year-on-year growth since 2012 and the trend is likely to continue because of Australia’s safe haven status and high yields, says Savills. 
Sydney had the most transactions by value at $4.6 billion, or 47 percent of CBD office sales nationally, while Melbourne led on the number of deals at 28. 
The $17.9 billion total, comprising $9.8 billion worth of CBD office transactions and $8.1 billion worth of non-CBD transactions, was up $4.6 billion on the $13.3 billion, five year average, with the sale of 253 properties, also up on the five year average of 234.
<a href="/images/2016/07/29/CBD%20sales%20bar%20graph.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/29/CBD%20sales%20bar%20graph.png" alt="">
Savills national head of Research, Tony Crabb said “there is no reason to believe we won’t see the upward trend continue given the current global economic and political status quo”. 
He added that off-shore investors further stamped their footprint in the Australian office market with $8.6 billion of the total sales (48 percent) and 68 percent of CBD purchases - $6.6 billion – from 44 transactions. 
Foreign investors also figured prominently in non-CBD sales purchasing 25 percent of the stock sold for $1.9 billion.
<a href="/images/2016/07/29/CBD%20sales%20pie.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/29/CBD%20sales%20pie.jpg" alt="">
Crabb said market yields averaged 6.15 percent for CBD premium grade buildings, 6.9 percent for CBD A grade buildings, and 8.3 percent for CBD B grade office buildings while yields averaged 7.28 percent for CBD fringe A grade buildings and 8.3 percent for CBD fringe B grade buildings.
Savills director, Cross Border &amp; Capital Transactions, Ben Azar, said Australia would continue to see massive foreign investment. 
“In an extremely low interest rate environment with global capital starved for yield, Australia is seen as a transparent secure market with some of the highest yields in the world. Sydney and Melbourne, especially, are seen as global gateway cities offering very good lease terms and strong covenants.
“As long as Australia’s economic and political environment remains stable, any turbulence in the US, UK and Europe will mean more offshore capital will be attracted to Australia because of its safe haven status, transparent market practices and growth potential,’’ Azar said.
Further yield compression expected
He said with interest rates forecast to stay lower for longer and with a huge amount of capital chasing very few opportunities, he expected further yield compression and for bond-like property yields to remain very tight. 
“As long as interest rates and bond yields are low or dropping, the scope for further yield compression is real. The thirst for yield will drive money into property and simple demand and supply laws will mean yields must compress,’’ Azar said. 
He said while Sydney and Melbourne remained investor favourites, the cities like Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth are also gaining importance as investors chase yield.
Azar said rapidly improving leasing fundamentals, especially in Sydney, meant the income side was set for vast improvement allowing scope for more aggressive pricing from vendors and potentially driving further investment demand.
 
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Australian office sales hit $18 billion in year to June; offshore buyers take 68 percent of CBD sales: Savills 

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Brookfield Multiplex has completed Walker Corporation’s $300 million Tower Two at the landmark Collins Square development at 727 Collins Street in Melbourne’s CBD.
The building features a 38 storey office tower and is the the second building Brookfield Multiplex has constructed in the development, the first being the $205 million 25 level Tower One in 2013.
Collins Square is a $2.5 billion development consisting of five inter-connected commercial office towers for a combined total of 185,000 sqm of net lettable area. It is due to be completed mid-2018.
Some 39,500 cubic metres of concrete was poured during construction, as well as 3,800 tonnes of reinforcement and 518 tonnes of post-tensioned concrete. The curtain wall design façade was constructed using 38,000 square metres of low-e glass.
The development has received a 5 Star Green Star Design and is targeting an As Built v3 Rating as well as a NABERS Energy 5 Star rating.
Brookfield Multiplex is also currently constructing Tower Four of the Collins Square development, a $180 million 21-level mixed-use tower comprising large open floor plates, and is scheduled for completion in August, 2016. 
 
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