Leeka Group has gone down the path of bringing a heightened level of wellness to its recently unveiled Melbourne apartment development, Comme Prahran.

It isn't in the form of a suite of amenities, given the building is more boutique in nature with just 32 apartments, but with clever inclusions designed to uplift their residents lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/comme-prahran-182-194-commercial-road-prahran-vic-3181">Comme</a>, directly opposition the iconic Prahran Market on Commercial Road, has been designed by renowned architecture studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> and&nbsp;will introduce the first-of-its-kind multi-dimensional wellness offering, where physical, mental, social, environmental, and cultural well-being are embedded throughout.

“Prahran has long been a destination for culture, community and quality of life, and Comme builds on that in a deeply intentional way,” says Leeka Director, Chek Ming Cheng.&nbsp;

“This project introduces a new kind of urban sanctuary, one that adapts to individual definitions of wellness, whether that’s through nutrition, rest, movement, design or connection. Every space has been thoughtfully shaped to support the diverse rhythms of modern life."

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There will be a rooftop with a&nbsp;Zen garden designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/plume-studio">Plume Landscape Architects</a>, offering&nbsp;a sensory experience that activates all five senses, an edible herb wall to taste, calming botanicals to smell, reflexology paths to feel, lush plantings to see and the gentle sounds of water and birdsong to hear.

Inside each residence, wellness is deeply personal, and Comme embraces this individuality with a suite of customisation options designed to enhance both health and lifestyle. Residents can tailor their homes with circadian lighting automation, supported by research linking it to improved well-being, better rest, and even longevity.&nbsp;

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Other add-ons residents can opt for include real-time air monitoring and purification systems, ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment, while blackout blinds help optimise sleep quality. Additionally, the option to include integrated smart home technologies and security measures with multiple controlled access points offers ease, convenience, and peace of mind, supporting day-to-day living and contributing to overall mental well-being.

Kitchens can be fitted with healthy cooking appliances such as steam ovens and taps for instant filtered, sparkling or hot water, while ensuites can be transformed into spa-style sanctuaries complete with steam showers, heated floors, rain heads, smart toilets, and sensor night lights to support restful sleep cycles. In the penthouse residence, further options include an outdoor spa for enhanced recovery and indulgence.

“Comme isn’t just about design, it’s about how space can support your day-to-day life," Chek added.

"Whether you like a steam shower, checking your indoor air quality, simply enjoying a quiet moment in the rooftop garden, or reflecting on the artworks in the building, wellness is part of your everyday routine, not an afterthought."

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The residences will feature open-plan layouts compliant with Better Apartment Design Standards (BADS), with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise ventilation, natural light and thermal comfort. Finishes such as natural stones, timber flooring and low-VOC paints are complemented by facade design that filters dappled light and aids in thermal comfort.

Cera Stribley, Co-Founder, Domenic Cerantonio, said the first thing you notice is the light.

"Natural light floods the living spaces, casting a soft glow that instantly lifts your spirits. It's as if the outside world melts away, and you're cocooned in a peaceful oasis."

The gallery-style residential lobby will feature circadian-inspired lighting and artwork, while the ground-floor will offer retail and hospitality spaces.

The building’s mixed-use design fosters connection, with ground-floor retail and hospitality creating a vibrant, welcoming destination. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to enhance the precinct and bring it to life.

&nbsp;

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Sustainability and environmental responsibility are integral to Comme Prahran’s DNA. All homes are gas-free and designed to a 7-star energy average, with double glazing, WELS-rated plumbing, and EV charging capabilities available. A light-coloured exterior has been chosen to minimise heat absorption, supporting thermal efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial cooling.

Honouring the cultural richness of Prahran, the project reimagines an Edwardian-era landmark, integrating its historic character into a contemporary architectural form. Art experiences will activate the residential and retail lobbies, and a dedicated artwork on the external eastern facade will enrich the building’s street presence, embedding it into the creative fabric of the neighbourhood.

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Joel Robinson

Comme Prahran launches opposite Prahran Market

Apartment developer Third.i has seen "overwhelming interest" in its recently unveiled new harbourside apartment project, The Rushcutters.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rushcutters-51-57-bayswater-road-rushcutters-bay-nsw-2011">The Rushcutters</a>, which is being delivered in partnership with James Packer's NPACT, will comprise just 13 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;

Demand is predominantly coming from local downsizers.

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“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the level of interest in The Rushcutters,” said Luke Berry, Director and Co-founder Third.i Group.

“It’s clear that buyers are seeking more than just a place to live, they’re looking for a lifestyle upgrade. The ability to amalgamate apartments into expansive, whole-floor homes is a game-changer for downsizers who want space without the maintenance of a traditional house.”

The Rubinstein Group is marketing the project alongside Hume Residential and JLL.

“It’s no surprise that if you’re downsizing from a five-bedroom house in Bellevue Hill, for example, you want to maintain that sense of space and luxury when looking for your next home, "&nbsp;Gavin Rubinstein, Founder of The Rubinstein Group, said.

“The Rushcutters is a great fit. Amalgamating apartments to create a bespoke, whole-floor home is a natural progression for buyers who aren’t willing to compromise on size and/or quality.”

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Amalgamating apartments has become a common theme among high-end buyers across Third.i's portfolio including Muse in Potts Point, and Elevate Hume Place in Crows Nest, which set a Lower North Shore apartment record with the $15.1 million sale of an amalgamation of a penthouse and sub-penthouse.

“We’re witnessing a clear shift towards more amalgamations in a number of our projects across Sydney,” said Jason Fraser, Principal at Woods Bagot.

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“The ability to combine apartments is enabling buyers to create truly unique, house-sized residences with high-end finishes, and proximity to vibrant urban precincts. The desire to amalgamate apartments to bespoke, house-sized residences is becoming a defining feature of Sydney’s evolving luxury apartment market."

Due to the City of Sydney’s no net dwelling loss policy, Thirdi is only able to offer one level for amalgamation at The Rushcutters, combining two apartments into a single, expansive residence.

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The Rushcutters a "great fit" for downsizers

Lower North Shore developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured development approval for its ultra-luxury residential project on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/34-burran-avenue-mosman-nsw-2088">dress circle Burran Avenue</a>.

The project, just&nbsp;50 metres from Balmoral Beach within Mosman’s prestigious Golden Triangle, will commence construction in early 2026,&nbsp;following the successful completion of its nearby Hampden Mosman project.

Lodged in April 2025 and approved in September 2025, the development will comprise three whole-floor residences, each designed to capture panoramic harbour views through Sydney Heads.

<img alt="34 Burran Avenue, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f4c7816-0ac8-4ef7-be0a-8ef23b693b68" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BURRAN%20EV01%20R04%20option%201%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=gVzI8pT6_K59Nhzaz0FLEvY6Kj9Kc8Fg" />

Set on an elevated 550 sqm corner site at the junction of Burran Avenue and Stanton Road, the building has been designed to sit within Balmoral’s natural slope. The façade mixes stone and metal cladding with angular forms, while oversized terraces and full-height sliding doors create a connection between interior living spaces and outdoor entertaining areas.

The delivery team from Abadeen’s Hampden Mosman project, which includes construction company Reform Projects and interiors company Mathieson, has been retained to bring the same level of execution and craftsmanship to Burran Avenue.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a> has been appointed project architect, bringing extensive experience from recent luxury residential projects in Manly, Fairlight and Freshwater.

&nbsp;

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said sites of this calibre, this close to Balmoral, are incredibly rare.

“Burran Avenue is an extraordinary site; its location, its scale and its outlook make it truly one of a kind. Receiving DA approval marks an exciting milestone for Abadeen."

"We’re proud to be moving forward with an exceptional team to deliver a project that will set a new standard for ultra-luxury living on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. Construction is planned to commence in early 2026, and interest is already strong from discerning local buyers who recognise the uniqueness of this address."

Brown anticipates prices will set new Mosman benchmarks above $20 million. Sales are expected to launch in March 2026.

Abadeen approved for Mosman's priciest apartments

Lifestyle developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a>, in partnership with Costa Property Group, has announced plans to reimagine Cunningham Pier in Geelong, one of Victoria's most recognisable heritage landmarks.

The announcement follows the City of Greater Geelong’s release of its Draft Geelong Waterfront Master Plan, which seeks to revitalise the waterfront with new energy, tourism, and investment. GURNER and Costa Property Group’s vision aligns with the Council’s ambitions to create a vibrant, connected, and economically powerful precinct for the community.&nbsp;

The future of Cunningham Pier will draw inspiration from Sydney Harbour’s luxury waterfront residences through to Dubai’s sculptural pier-edge towers, blending architectural excellence with &nbsp;resort-style living, hospitality, and public amenity.&nbsp;

The concept, described as “Saint Moritz on the Sea”, is envisioned to include:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Six-star hotel accommodation and services&nbsp;</li>
	<li>World-class restaurants, bars, and public spaces&nbsp;</li>
	<li>High-end residential offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Entertainment and cultural venues&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Potential cruise ship port facilities, integrating Geelong into the global travel network&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The transformative project aims to become a magnet for tourism, investment, and innovation, while &nbsp;ensuring continued public access and connection to Corio Bay’s pristine waterfront.&nbsp;

Cunningham Pier has been operated by Costa Property Group for more than 15 years, with the City of Greater Geelong expressing strong support for strategic commercial partnerships that unlock &nbsp;tourism-led economic development for the region’s fast-growing population.&nbsp;

Tim Gurner, Founder &amp; Executive Chairman, GURNER™ Group, said the project is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to put Geelong on the global map," adding that their version will be of what icons like the Opera House, Story Bridge or Empire State Building have done for other great cities.

“We’ll be working hand-in-hand with the Mayor, Council, the local community, and State Government to deliver something truly iconic that positions Geelong on the world stage. This project brings together everything we’ve built our brand on – world-class design, hospitality, &nbsp;lifestyle, and experience – all in one place. From six-star hotels and restaurants to the possibility of a &nbsp;new cruise ship terminal and luxury residences, the vision is extraordinary.”&nbsp;

City of Greater Geelong&nbsp;Mayor Stretch Kontelj said he welcomes the "bold and inspiring vision reimagining our beloved Cunnigham Pier as a global destination."

"This ambitious plan and the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre next year have the potential to take our already world-class waterfront to even greater heights.”

Sydney Harbour, Dubai pier towers, to influence Gurner's Cunningham Pier, Geelong development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> is one of Melbourne's longest standing architecture firms.

Founded in Melbourne in 1853 by Joseph Reed, the firm began as Reed &amp; Barnes and has evolved through various partnerships before adopting the Bates Smart name in the 20th century. With a continuous presence spanning more than 170 years, the practice has played a pivotal role in shaping Melbourne’s architectural identity.

In the 19th century, Bates Smart designed several of Melbourne’s enduring landmarks, including the Royal Exhibition Building (1880), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Melbourne Town Hall. The firm’s influence continued into the 20th century with notable works such as Ici House (1958), considered Melbourne’s first modern skyscraper and a milestone in post-war Australian architecture.

One of their landmark designs was&nbsp;The First Church of Christ, Scientist, at 336-340 St Kilda Road. The building, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, was designed by Bates, Peeble and Smart with construction completed in 1922. Architecturally, the building is significant as a rare example of early twentieth century classicism applied to a religious building. Historically, the building is significant as the first church of the Christian Science movement.

Melbourne developer Time &amp; Place decided to bring Bates Smart back to the area to design their next residential apartment project, Park Modern.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/park-modern-south-melbourne-1-middleton-lane-south-melbourne-vic-3205">Park Modern</a>, on one of the largest island sites on the Melbourne CBD fringe, bordered by Dorcas Street, Wells Street, and Middleton Lane, will comprise two sculptural towers. It is being positioned as a design-forward response to evolving owner-occupier preferences in the Domain precinct.

Tim Price, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>, says&nbsp;Bates Smart have got a footprint on this city, probably like no other architect.

"It’s a really nice kind of next chapter story, that they created from a design perspective so long ago," Price told Apartments.com.au.

Park Modern will be the third time Time &amp; Place has worked with Bates Smart, having successfully designed and delivered Collins House and Opera on St Kilda Road together.

The brief focused on creating a built form that would feel contextually appropriate while offering a contemporary evolution of inner-city apartment living.

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The focus for Park Modern is squarely on owner-occupiers.

“It’s not always about downsizing," Price says.

"Sometimes it’s just about creating a space which is easily maintained, lock up and leave, reflecting people’s aspirations, whether they’re entertainers, big dining room spaces, big open terraces, they’re important parts of any design consideration.”

The building includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, with layouts and floor plans designed to suit a broad demographic. The architecture has been shaped to capture&nbsp;view corridors to the Botanic Gardens, Port Phillip Bay and the CBD skyline.

Each apartment has been oriented to maximise natural light and provide a clear outlook, elements often cited by owner-occupiers as key criteria.

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Rather than defaulting to a generic luxury offering, the amenity strategy at Park Modern reflects specific insights into how residents want to live. The ground floor will include co-working areas, wellness facilities, and a concierge-led lobby that blends indoor and outdoor design cues.

“Wellness has become a more thoughtful consideration, not just gyms or lap pools, but things like magnesium plunge pools, saunas, daybeds, and studio spaces for Pilates and the regular cardio workout,” says Price.

One notable inclusion is a substantial porte-cochère, a covered vehicle drop-off zone integrated into the site plan. It’s a feature rarely seen in inner-urban developments and speaks to the team’s emphasis on ease of arrival and departure for residents and guests.

A display suite for Park Modern is now open by appointment, giving prospective buyers an early look at the project.

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100 years on, Bates Smart returns to South Melbourne's Domain Precinct to design Park Modern

Port Macquarie

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During 2019, we saw a sluggish start to the year due to various factors including a softening of investor demand in the residential market and uncertainty during the election run-up, 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.
"The May election with the reinstatement of the Liberal government, three interest rate cuts between June and October and the relaxing of some lending policies saw a steady increase in activity as the weather warmed up," the valuation film said. 
This had the Mid North Coast property market heading into the festive season on somewhat of a high.
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"With interest rates set to stay at historic lows or decrease further, natural population growth and out of town investors purchasing in the area, we believe that the way we finished 2019 will be the way we start 2020, with continued steady price growth and an increasing number of sales for our area. 
"We do note that approximately 60% of purchasers are from outside of the area," the valuation firm stated. 
"We believe the best performer for the year ahead will be the established well located areas close to town, beaches and infrastructure. 
"As we have seen for a number of years, some of the older areas are getting a face lift and younger families move into these areas and revitalise them." 
The report suggests some of the fringe suburbs with large land releases might see more subdued growth as developers continue to release additional land, sales numbers plateau and prices remain stagnant.
A two bedroom apartment located within walking distance to Port Macquarie's CBD has been recently sold for $840,000.
The north facing apartment is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-port+macquarie-132872910" target="_blank">402/5-7 Clarence Street </a>(pictured below).
The home features open plan living, large kitchen, covered balcony and single lockup garage. 
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Another recent sale was a three bedroom family home located close to Port Macquarie's CBD and St Agnes School.
The home situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-132701006" target="_blank">14 Kyogle Place </a>(pictured below) was sold for $572,500. 
It comprises three bedrooms, sizeable lounge, kitchen overlooking pool area and alfresco area. 
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Port Macquarie market expected to show steady price growth in 2020: HTW residential 

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The three busiest suburbs for auction locations this week are in New South Wales where Port Macquarie tops the list with 20 homes scheduled for auction, according to CoreLogic data.
Their data shows, Lane Cove and Randwick follow with 15 and 12 scheduled auctions respectively.
Auction volumes are set to rise this week, with over 1,000 homes scheduled for auction across the combined capital cities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/14-02%20CL.JPG" alt="">
CoreLogic is currently tracking 1,359 auctions across the capital’s, with volumes up by 46.4 per cent on last week (928), however the lower year on year trend continues with volumes down 31.8 per cent when compared to the same week last year (1,992).
Melbourne is expected to see the most significant increase in volumes over the week, with 607 properties scheduled for auction, up from 350.
Across Sydney, 501 homes are set to go under the hammer this week, increasing from 32.
Canberra and Perth will see an increase in activity over the week, while the remaining cities will see fewer homes taken to auction.
This Sunday, Damien Cooley will be Auctioneering for Elders Real Estate Port Macquarie at Rydges Hotel at 11 am, with a prestige canalfront listing at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/27-ballina-cres-port-macquarie-nsw-2444" target="_blank">27 Ballina Crescent.</a>
Amid the busy auction weekend in Port Macquarie is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-129983054" target="_blank">88 O'Briens Road</a> (pictured in title).
The four bedroom three bathroom house comes with a price guide of $670,000 to $710,000
Set on 806 sqm, the listing notes the home was recently refurbished.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/2/14/Port%20Macq%202.JPG" alt="">
Another in Port Macquarie is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-130240306" target="_blank">6 Mahogany Hill</a>.
The three bedroom two bathroom house has an price guide of $599,000 to $658,000
Set on 1,018 sqm it is a 5 minute drive from the CBD.
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Auction volumes up 46% with Port Macquarie the busiest

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A Port Macquarie shopping centre, anchored by a Bunnings Warehouse, has bought by MPG Funds Management Limited for $44.65 million in an off-market transaction.
The centre is currently under construction with an expected completion date of Q1 2019.
The new Bunnings store will be over 18,000 square metre and be supported by an additional 2,400 square metres of large format retail.
James Wilson, national director of Colliers International’s NSW retail investment services business, said the sale represented a blended yield of 5.64%.
“Bunnings Warehouses are always highly sought after from a wide variety of investors,” said Wilson. 
“During the off market process Colliers International received strong interest from funds, syndicators and private investors.”
“Metropolitan and regionally located retail investments have continued to set benchmark levels due to NSW having a distinct lack of supply, with less than $100 million worth of freestanding investments publicly marketed YTD 2018.
“This scarcity of stock is in stark contrast to Queensland and Victoria. 
“Recent campaigns have resulted in unprecedented levels of domestic and offshore interest, with enquiry levels almost doubling since 2014.
“This reflects the growing depth of retail appetite for rare freestanding investment opportunities, including the highly prized Bunnings covenant.”
Brett Gorman, director of MPG, said the opportunity provided a great opportunity for its investors.
“MPG Funds Management is pleased to grow our long-standing relationship with Bunnings in a rapidly growing region of NSW,” he said.
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Brand new Bunnings-anchored site sells for $44.65 million off-market

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Port Macquarie in New South Wales was the busiest individual suburb for auctions across the nation last weekend, with 25 residential homes set to go under the hammer.
A Port Macquaire four bedroom house, near Ascot Park, was listed for sale with a price guide of $790,000 - $840,000 (pictured below), but it was passed in price withheld by McGrath Estate Agents.
The block last sold in 2015 at $245,000.
There were approved building plans in 2016 costing $262,000.
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-127617098" target="_blank">Situated at 42 Black Caviar Parade</a>, it features multiple living spaces, tiered theatre and swimming pool.
It comes with four double bedrooms, gourmet stone kitchen, and full study or possible fifth bedroom.
It is five minutes from schools and shops, and ten minutes to CBD and beaches.
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No sale on Black Caviar Parade, Port Macquarie 

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The northern NSW coastal city Port Macquarie is the busiest location for auctions for the upcoming weekend according to CoreLogic.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/buy/in-port+macquarie,+nsw+2444/auction-times-1" target="_blank">Port Macquarie</a> beats Manly (NSW), Wahroonga (NSW), Paddington (Qld) and Surfers Paradise (Qld).
According to CoreLogic auction activity across the combined capital cities is set to be quite subdued this week due to the NRL and AFL grand finals being held and the public holiday long weekend.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/09/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-09-28%20at%2010.32.39%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/09/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-09-28%20at%2010.32.39%20AM.png" alt="">
"There are 805 auctions currently being tracked by CoreLogic, down from the 2,759 held last week and only slightly lower than final results recorded over the equivalent week last year (872)," CoreLogic said.
"The most notable decrease in activity will be in Melbourne, where only 86 auctions are scheduled this week, while Sydney is set to host the highest volume of auctions this week, with 515 homes scheduled to go under the hammer, albeit volumes are well down on last week.
"Brisbane is expected to be the second busiest capital city this week, with volumes remaining relatively steady week-on-week, while the remaining capital cities are all expected to see a lower volume of auctions."
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In Port Macquarie, a three bedroom house one block from the beach at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-126337178" target="_blank">16 Arncliffe Avenue</a> (above) is set for Saturday auction.
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Port Macquarie leads grand final weekend auction listings

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Increasing values, strong rentals and limited stock in NSW’s Mid North Coast is causing problems for first time buyers as they compete with the generally more affluent investor market, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017.  
The valuation firm says the new rapidly developing outlying subdivisions to the west of Port Macquarie (Inneslake, Brierley Hill and Thrumster areas) and to the south (Bonny Hills and Lake Cathie) have seen high demand for residential blocks over the past year.
“Purchasers appear to be a combination of investors and new home buyers, predominantly in the $450,000 to $600,000 segment,” the report states.
“First home buyers are targeting the lower end of this segment and accessing the first home owner grants (for new homes).
“While this can be more expensive than some of the established areas closer to town, access to the first home owner grant is proving the difference.”
The firm notes that a shortage of available land is becoming a problem, with often only house and land packages available for purchase.
“First home buyers often have to opt for higher value land and building packages, which may cause some mortgage stress in the future if interest rates rise.
“In the larger towns, first home buyers have often opted for residential units and villas in the lower value range ($300,000 to $400,000) with not only the price but the low maintenance proving attractive.
“However these are also very popular with mum and dad investors who are finding that these investments are often neutrally geared and relatively low risk.
“This has seen significant increases in values for these lower end products.”
HTW cautions that the only product it advises first home owners in the region to avoid would be serviced apartments.
“As the option of rent-vesting is gaining popularity, we would advise first home owners to stay away from properties that can’t be lived in permanently,” the report says.
“While the appeal of low purchase prices may be tempting, the high ongoing running cost, low returns and limited prospects for capital growth see this segment as a no go for first home owners looking to get onto the property ladder.”
A two bedroom house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lake+cathie-124684366" target="_blank"> 6 Southern Ocean Street</a>, Lake Cathie (above) has been listed for $479,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bonny+hills-124839222" target="_blank">8 Rodley Street</a>, Bonny Hills (below) has been listed for $655,000.
<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/2017/03/09/8%20Rodley%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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First home owner grants making a difference in NSW Mid North Coast: HTW

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The NSW mid north coast region centred around the regional hub of Port Macquarie is still experiencing increasing values but at slower sale rates mainly due to a lack of available stock on the market, according to HTW's February 2017 update.
The valuation firm says in Port Macquarie, the rapidly developing and outlying subdivisions, both to the west and along the coastal strip to the south (Bonny Hills and Lake Cathie) are continuing to see rapid expansion with the high demand for residential land.
The other coastal towns and villages all along the mid north coast are also experiencing strong demand for land and modern dwellings and this is expected to remain strong and continue to grow in the coming months.
However there is a significant amount of vacant land and recently completed dwellings available for sale within these rapidly developing smaller towns and HTW consider that this expanding market may not be sustainable over the long term and anticipate that the growth may slow later in 2017.
“This current construction boom in some of these smaller towns may result in an oversupply of dwellings and land if demand were to lessen,” the report says.
During 2017, HTW expect that Port Macquarie will continue to remain one of the fastest growing regional centres in NSW for property investment.
New housing development continues to be based around the continuing growth of the Charles Sturt University campus, with an increase in the number of house and granny flats being built especially within the adjoining areas to cater for student accommodation.
The construction of the new Pacific Highway between Port Macquarie and Kempsey continues and is expected to be completed in late 2017.
“Last year demand from construction workers boosted the rental market in Port Macquarie, however we have noticed that rental demand and rates have plateaued and this is expected to continue for the next few months, although the continuing influx of university students will assist the rental market to remain strong,” the report says.
“The higher value, prestige properties and rural residential property markets in the region remain slow but steady, with slow demand combining to produce slowly increasing values.
“We have been quite optimistic for the region over the past two years and our optimism continues for the coming year.”
At the median price of $517,000 for houses a house such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-124560190" target="_blank">20 Merinda Drive</a>, Port Macquarie (above) is available for $535,000.
Similarly at $340,000 a unit such as the one at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-port+macquarie-119127067" target="_blank">22/48 Pacific Drive</a>, Port Macquarie (below) is available for $340,000.
<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/2017/02/14/22_48%20Pacific%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
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Port Macquarie market remains strong on back of Pacific Highway construction: HTW

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With the federal election now over and an interest rate drop of 25 basis points in August, the property market in Port Macquarie is again showning signs of gaining momentum, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says real estate agents report that they are scratching the bottom of the barrel for listings.
Demand within the Port Macquarie township mainly between the market range of $350,000 to $450,000 for three bedroom older houses, two to three bedroom villas and new dwellings within the outer suburbs close to the university have been "hot, hot, hot" with sales being achieved either prior to advertising or within days afterwards.
One example of a property within the most active price range is the three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-123509162" target="_blank">31 Marian Drive</a> (pictured above) that is for sale for $369,000.
HTW advised that property prices have started to become inflated as buyers compete for properties.
"This has spurred sales of vacant land within the outer suburbs of Port Macquarie and in the small surrounding villages with many new subdivisions close to being sold out prior to being registered," the report stated.
Subdivisions at Crestwood, closer to Port Macquarie, are seeing higher priced and higher quality dwellings being built on these lots, fuelling the outer subdivisions such as Sovereign Hills and Lake Innes where a more reasonably priced lot and dwelling can be achieved.
HTW noted an increase in construction of dual occupancy style dwellings.
"These generally comprise a three bedroom, two bathroom dwelling with an attached two bedroom, one bathroom for the owner’s parents or as a separate rental.
"We suspect that this momentum may continue for some months, especially with the Christmas holiday season still to come."
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Dual occupancy properties on the rise in Port Macquarie as price inflation emerges: HTW

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If you're looking to park the 'lazy half-million' in NSW Mid North Coast, it won't go as far as the previous years, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White in their July 2016 residential market report on dwellings in the sub $500,000 range.
Port Macquarie particularly has limited stock available in this price range compared to last year and generally only includes properties such as villas or units, three-bedroom dwellings and smaller older style four-bedroom dwellings, says the report.
Combined with the limited stock and another drop in interest rates in early May the market has remained buoyant with more buyers than sellers. There are now limited areas of Port Macquarie where these sub $500,000 properties can be found for purchase. Areas include Flynns Beach, Clifton and the outer western fringes of the township. Dwellings in this price bracket are becoming rare within other areas of Port Macquarie and are therefore being sold very quickly whenever they come on the market. Rents have eased slightly, however current high demand is evident around the CBD, hospital and Charles Stuart University areas.
"We note that there are several student accommodation style developments currently under construction within these areas and once complete, will provide good supply and therefore rental growth may slow," say HTW.
HTW considers the following areas as solid investment:
• Good quality older villas or lower end villa complexes, consisting of two villas sold as in one line, have been popular with investors producing an almost positively geared return.
• Three- or four-bedroom older homes on the eastern side of Port Macquarie or near the CBD, around the $450,000 to $550,000 mark, are also producing good returns in most instances and have excellent potential for future capital growth.
• New house and land packages in the outer and western regions of Port Macquarie and nearby towns and villages can be purchased between $450,000 and $550,000. While theses dwellings are not located within the main stream capital growth area, tax depreciation is making up the shortfall for the prudent buyer.
Port Macquarie on the mid north coast still has the highest rates for capital growth and rental returns. The smaller regional and coastal towns and villages have also showed signs of slowing with properties remaining on the market longer and purchase prices not being achieved. However, rental returns for the above areas remain firm with limited vacancies.
Property Observer found a four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-120104681" target="_blank">4 Clifton Drive, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444</a> (above) recently sold for $390,000.
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NSW'S Port Macquarie offers best capital growth in sub $500,000 property range: HTW

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At Port Macquarie, NSW, some $2.3 million is being sought for Grantham, a historic 1892 built home.
It is on the market for only the fourth time, listed by the contractor David Bawden and his health worker wife Gaylene.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-port+macquarie-122751930" target="_blank">Grantham</a> was built in 1892.
They are only the third owners in the property’s history having lived in the home for 30 years. 
The couple extended and restored it in 1992 and it now has five bedrooms, two bathrooms, home theatre, lounge room with fireplace and a dining room. 
Llocated on a hill, two kilometres from Port Macquarie CBD, Mark Carter of Ray White has the listing.
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