Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

The latest application seeks approval for a multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

Staff Writer

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Leading Australian integrated property development group, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>, has released the signature penthouses crowning its landmark AURA by Aqualand precinct at 168 Walker Street in North Sydney, unveiling Il Magnate and La Divina as the largest and most luxurious penthouses in the suburb.

With prices anticipated to commence from $15 million, and each accompanied by a new Porsche Carrera 911 valued at over $500K, the residences mark the culmination of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>’s decade-long journey and the beginning of its final sales chapter. 
&nbsp; 
Their release follows more than $850 million in record-breaking residential sales and the building’s completion and occupation.

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The Richards Stanisich-designed 284 sqm Il Magnate and 224 sqm La Divina penthouses, collectively known as The Icons of AURA, are conceived as grand luxury homes rather than apartments, with expansive proportions, elevated materiality and curated identities that reflect their status as one-off residences.&nbsp;

Il Magnate features a grande master suite, complete with substantial walk-in dressing area and ensuite, three other bedrooms, second ensuite and another bathroom, powder room, open plan kitchen, scullery, substantial dining area and generous living room divided by a feature fireplace, and a multifunction wintergarden, which is ideal for a study and adjoining office breakout space. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the La Divina residence offers the same amenities, sans the powder room, on a slightly smaller alternate floor plan configuration.

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Each occupies half of AURA by Aqualand’s topmost 28th level, comes with four secure car spaces and pairs sweeping Sydney Harbour panoramas with large-scale living spaces, refined detailing and a level of craftsmanship and amenity rarely offered in the North Shore market.&nbsp;

Penthouse residents will also receive Etymon’s ‘Black Key’ private concierge and lifestyle management service, an invitation only offering providing the ultimate in bespoke personalisation, including a range of everyday discrete services, from dinner party management, grocery deliveries, pet feeding or plants watered, dinners, snacks and coffee deliveries, event ticket sourcing, right up to organising travel visas and international airfares. Rarely seen in Australian properties, the service provides residents the benefits of living in a world-class luxury hotel-style home, akin to The Ritz, or the Waldorf Astoria.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>’s Director, Kirsten Stanisich, said the studio set out to craft residences that feel profoundly considered, contemporary and deeply connected to their setting.

“From the outset, we approached these penthouses with the sensibility of a grand Parisian residence - generous in scale, elegant in proportion and designed to feel more like a handcrafted home than an apartment," Stanisich said.

“Their elevated position and sweeping harbour outlook informed every decision, creating a rare connection between urban sophistication and natural calm. We shaped each space with expressive materiality, sculptural forms and bespoke detailing that invite touch and interaction.&nbsp;

“The result is a pair of residences defined by volume, light and an inherent softness - refined, flexible and deeply personal. These penthouses are unlike anything else in North Sydney, offering a sanctuary of true luxury framed by some of the city’s most remarkable views.”

For Aqualand’s Head of Sales &amp; Marketing, Alex Adams, the collaboration with Porsche underscores the shared ethos behind the residences.

“Aqualand’s collaboration with Porsche underpins both brand’s sharing an obsession with craftsmanship, design excellence, and enduring value," Adams said.

“Our penthouses are created for those who appreciate the finer details and expect the extraordinary at every touchpoint. Including a Porsche simply extends that experience beyond the residence - it’s a continuation of the lifestyle our buyers already live.”&nbsp;

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Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, said the penthouses represent both the pinnacle of AURA by Aqualand and an important design benchmark for the company’s future pipeline.&nbsp;

“These stunning penthouses reflect the purest expression of Aqualand’s design ambition," Lin said.

“The unparalleled design intent makes them not only the glistening crown of AURA by Aqualand, but the crown of North Sydney itself. They’re essentially a thank you gift to a burgeoning community that deserves this level of quality and architectural consideration.&nbsp;

“We’re leveraging the unrivalled standard set here as the foundation for what comes next, including our upcoming Anderson Street, Chatswood; 15 Blue Street, North Sydney and Central Barangaroo projects. Purchasers of these penthouses will essentially be living inside the blueprint of Aqualand’s future.

“These landmark residences demonstrate how far North Sydney has evolved and the strength of demand for highly curated, bespoke luxury homes. They’re more than penthouses, they’re legacy residences.&nbsp;

“With AURA by Aqualand now a thriving new precinct with residents well and truly settled, and our in-house world-class lifestyle amenity activated, Il Magnate and La Divina represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an extraordinary piece of North Sydney’s future.”

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Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach has quietly evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most complete coastal lifestyle precincts, defined not just by proximity to the ocean, but by how residential living, local retail and everyday amenity are stitched together.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask Bokarina</a> now represents the final residential chapter in that transformation.

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Over recent years, the Bokarina Beach precinct has taken shape as a walkable, community-oriented neighbourhood, anchored by beachfront access, Lake Kawana to the west, and a growing mix of cafés, specialty retail and public open space.&nbsp;

With Zinc Bokarina already delivered next door by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG), Bask is the last opportunity to buy a brand new apartment within the precinct, effectively rounding out a fully formed coastal village.

GVG has positioned Bask to strengthen that lifestyle framework. Nine ground-floor retail spaces are planned beneath the residences, extending Bokarina Boulevard’s existing activity and reinforcing the area’s everyday convenience, from casual dining and coffee to local services, within a short walk of the beach.

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The residential component comprises 135 apartments across two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, with a clear shift toward larger three- and four-bedroom layouts and penthouses. That mix reflects a maturing buyer profile in Bokarina, where demand is increasingly led by owner-occupiers and active downsizers seeking space, permanence, and connection to place rather than short-term coastal accommodation.

Design and amenity have followed the same logic. Residents will have access to a heated plunge pool, gym, private dining room with a full kitchen, landscaped communal gardens with barbecues and a firepit, and a shared herb and vegetable garden, facilities intended to support daily use rather than resort-style turnover. Pet-friendly features, including a dog wash bay, acknowledge both buyer expectations and the area’s dog-friendly beach, located around 250 metres from the site.

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“Bokarina has become one of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable beachside communities, and Bask represents the very last chance to buy new in this location,” GVG Director Sam Gardner said.&nbsp;

“Our focus has been to create spacious, functional apartments that meet the needs of locals who want to downsize without compromise, as well as those seeking a full-time coastal retreat.”

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Kawana, Bask apartments have been oriented to capture outlooks toward the water or the Glass House Mountains, reinforcing the project’s connection to its natural surroundings. With parks, beachfront paths, hospitals, retail and public transport already in place, Bask arrives at a point where the broader precinct is no longer emerging, but established.

Construction is expected to complete in Q3 this year, with apartments ready to move into this Spring.

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Bask to complete Bokarina’s Sunshine Coast lifestyle precinct as final apartments are released

Property development giant <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/avid-property-group">AVID Property Group</a> is approaching completion, and sell-out, of its Surry Hills apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rathbone-23-47-flinders-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">The Rathbone</a>.

The Flinders St project has sold well over half of its 32 apartments, which will sit above two retail spaces.

Now hitting the market are the final 14 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, which start from $1.15 million. AVID is targeting a mid-2026 completion.

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AVID General Manager New South Wales Danny Boubli said as more apartments are introduced to increase housing options in inner-city areas, homebuyers are searching for a &nbsp;sense of belonging in addition to location, convenience and value.&nbsp;

“There are very few opportunities for new developments in Surry Hills, and since acquiring the site, we’ve even seen one early purchaser merge two apartments plans together, reflecting the demand for a spacious, premium offering in a prime location,” Boubli said.&nbsp;

“Demand has been strong since we launched to market – we don’t see these final apartments staying on the market for long.”&nbsp;

Architectural firm Studio SC has designed the building which pays homage to the former 1900s Rathbone Terraces that once sat on the 990 sqm island site.

Boubil said the team has made every effort to create "truly liveable apartments", through&nbsp;functional floor plans, security, storage, and the inclusion of quality fittings.

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&nbsp;

Sustainable design has also been implemented throughout the development, with natural light flooding each apartment, ventilation throughout, extensive landscaping and where possible, materials with a high level of recycled content and low volatile organic compound paints have been used. &nbsp;

Apartments range in size from 57 sqm for the one-bedrooms to the large-scale 165 sqm three-beds which are priced at $2,575,000.

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AVID launches final apartments at The Rathbone, Surry Hills

A wave of investment, renewal and precinct growth continues to shape the northern edge of Macquarie Park, where daily life is supported by a rare combination of university activity, corporate employment, major retail, and expansive green corridors. It’s this convergence of amenity and connectivity underpins the setting for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a>, which has now topped out and is tracking toward completion in mid-2026.

Within this pocket of the precinct, residents move easily between the area’s key anchors. Macquarie Centre, home to more than 360 retailers, fresh food offerings, dining and entertainment, sits at the heart of local convenience and functions as a major transport interchange. The Metro, T1 rail line and extensive bus network place much of Sydney within quick reach, while surrounding arterial links support direct access to neighbouring districts.

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Green space remains a defining feature of the immediate environment. Lane Cove National Park stretches along the northern boundary of the precinct, offering bushland trails, cycling routes and quiet riverfront pockets. Shrimptons Creek and the campus grounds of Macquarie University extend these recreational networks, softening the urban setting and creating a daily connection to nature that informs the project’s architectural response.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> have shaped La Vera around these contrasts. The building’s northern elevation adopts an organic, curvilinear form that mirrors the natural topography of the national park. Three sculpted forms soften the tower’s profile and encourage a stronger transition between indoor living areas, balconies and the broader landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223737]

Cox Director Felipe Miranda says the building’s outlook played a central role in the design process.

“The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park… The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies,” Felipe Miranda of Cox Architecture said.

Toward the city-facing side, the design shifts to a more urban expression. A gridded facade and extensive glazing capture CBD views, creating a dual strategy that blends ecological outlooks with metropolitan orientation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=5827]

La Vera delivers 169 residences across one- to four-bedroom layouts, reflecting the needs of young families, downsizers, first-home buyers and investors seeking long-term certainty within a high-amenity location. From the project, residents can walk to Macquarie University, Macquarie Hospital and nearby corporate offices, reach national park trails within minutes, and enjoy retail and dining without relying on a car.

The project is delivered by Urban Property Group, a 4.5-star iCIRT-rated developer-builder with more than three decades of experience. The company has become a leader in adopting 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), first introduced on its Parq Bexley development and now embedded into its pipeline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=223727]

La Vera is the first development in Macquarie Park approved to offer this 10-year LDI policy, adding another layer of protection for purchasers and reinforcing the transparency of the construction process.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias says this assurance has become increasingly important for buyers navigating the off-the-plan market.

“Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been… Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share,” Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said.

Urban Property Group's in-house construction team is forecasting a mid-2026 completion, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/home789">HOME789</a> appointed as the project marketer.

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La Vera delivers a nature-connected address within Macquarie Park’s core

Property Investments

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Property investors have been pampered with an assortment of developments throughout Sydney over the last three years. Developments that have seen in the most part vacancy rates as low as 1.2%. 
Adding to the investors fortune are almost no-vacancy periods. High capital growth and low vacancy is an investors dream but how long will and can the party last? 
As I drive around Sydney in general and meet with clients in coffee shops, I have been noticing the emergence of the For Lease signboard. In some apartment buildings there are two, even three signboards adorning their front landscape. A sight not witnessed for some time.
As many investors have been feasting on the high property yields, many may drop their guard with respect to the upcoming oversupply and less demand for rental property. Current reports are now emerging with vacancy rate figures on the rise.
With the rise in vacancy periods comes the upsurge of the For Lease signboard - a symbol that should bring terror to the property investor. I am of the opinion that these signboards will grow in numbers, as they pop up like mushrooms in the front yards of older buildings. Tenants will migrate from the older apartment blocks to those newly built. 
There are other reports floating around that we have 90,000 off-the-plan purchases yet to be completed over the following 12 months. Again, I’m of the opinion the numbers quoted by the mainstream are conservative figures. It will be no surprise to finally calculate 130,000 plus apartments being built in the capital cities along the east coast of Australia. 
But wait! There is a hell of a lot more in planning and proposal stages. When I say a lot, I don’t just mean tens of thousands; let us just say that the Parramatta Rd corridor will see close to 100,000, if not more. 
What will set the trend for 2016 will be how quickly the tens of thousands of apartments will be occupied as they are completed in the following there to four months and what rental-incomes or returns are achieved. But not taking into account the rental guarantees promised by agents and developers.  
What I foresee will take place in the near future:
<ul>
<li>We will witness a migration of tenants from older unit blocks, to newly completed unit blocks. </li>
<li>Rents will be reduced to those promised to investors. However, although tenants will pay much less, the agents and developers will make up the difference. Happy-days for the renters. </li>
<li>Rental expectations will be adjusted even lower in the older apartment blocks to counter-act the mass exodus of tenants vacating the older dwellings.</li>
<li>Unit blocks that are 3 years and older will begin to creep down in value in some parts of Sydney and in others it will be a sudden drop.  </li>
</ul>
Why is this all important? 
If you are an investor and you believe you may be in an area where there is a high level of construction, then it’s time you begin to lock your tenants into a long term tenancy period. Perhaps even drop the rent a little to gain long term peace of mind. 
A vacancy-plan strategy will need to be put in place with your property management team - a plan that monitors both rental demand and vacancy periods in the area. 
Furthermore, right now is not the time to be looking at increasing rents in most parts of Sydney. There are only a few areas in Sydney that are coping with rental increases. With a smorgasbord of rental property available and more to come, tenants will move to newer and cheaper accommodation. 
What's the net result?
The net result for many that moved into the property investment game in the last 18 months will be very painful. Needless to say, a large number of investors that have borrowed equity against established dwellings to grow their property-portfolio will also find the near future somewhat turbulent. 
 
EDWIN ALMEIDA is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"> </a>
He is also the creator of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JustThinkProperty" target="_blank">Oz Real Estate.TV</a> and a presenter for <a href="https://propertyinvestingvault.com/" target="_blank">propertyinvestingvault.com</a>.
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ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

The rise of the For Lease signboard: Edwin Almeida

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New research has revealed more than 1 in 2 Aussies think property is the most secure and profitable long-term investment, compared with shares, gold, cash and fixed interest.
So much so, that 41 per cent would invest it within their superannuation if they met the criteria. But will it continue to perform better than shares post-pandemic?
The findings come from a survey of an independent, nationally representative panel of 1006 Australians commissioned by online finance information platform Money.com.au. 
Forty-two (42) per cent of Aussies said property is the best avenue for long-term return on investment, followed by a third (32 per cent) who believe shares will provide the best returns. An equal nine per cent think gold and cash are the best investments, and eight per cent think fixed interest such as government or corporate bonds is the best avenue for investing money long term.
The extent to which Aussies feel property will continue to perform strongly is in the high proportion: (41 per cent) that said they would consider investing in direct property – such as a residential apartment – in a self-managed super fund (SMSF).
When asked what types of property respondents would be most interested in investing in their SMSF, the majority of respondents (66 per cent) said residential houses, 39 per cent said residential apartments, and 34 per cent said commercial property.
In Australia, direct property accounts for 15 per cent of SMSF asset allocations.
“The survey findings indicate that Australians are still confident in investing in our property market, despite the swaying effects of the pandemic. Our property market has shown resilience over the past six months, with house prices not falling nearly as low as experts had predicted at the start of the shutdowns. This high level of confidence is also echoed in the fact that many would invest in property within a self-managed super fund to fund their retirement. However, not many people know how to establish a self-managed fund," Helen Baker, licensed financial advisor and spokesperson at Money.com.au said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Aussies vote property as most secure and profitable investment: Money.com.au

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Former NRL champion Todd Carney has quickly found a buyer for his Wentworth Point investment apartment.
He's accepted a $500,000 offer, up from its $480,000 guide. 
It was Carney's first property purchase when he paid $395,000 back in 2007 when he was at the Canberra Raiders.
The 86 sqm, one bedroom rental apartment on the sixth floor of the Lipari building was sold by Frank Colacicco at Cobden &amp; Hayson.
The Goulburn-born play-maker is now in the English Super League with Hull Kingston Rover after being released from his Northern Pride contract in Queensland.
He sustained a calf-injury on his home debut in a defeat to Salford earlier this month. 
Carney's property portfolio includes apartments in Coogee, Waverley and Sans Souci.
This article first appeared in The Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Todd Carney sells at Wentworth Point

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SPONSORED POST
DPN has launched a range of architecturally designed investment homes, including a dual income property, to be built to a standard that rivals or surpasses owner-occupied homes. 
One of the common issues property investors have when purchasing is that they end up buying a property they don’t actually like.
In an ideal world, investors would buy properties they want to live in. However, more often than not, investors buy houses that are ageing mutton dressed as lamb. This is not through choice but what’s on the market. Perhaps the house has a hideously outdated kitchen, thin layers of paint hiding decades of mould or poorly designed living spaces. Or, as is often the case, they’re project homes, quickly knocked out without thought to form or function.
Investors see these far too often.
Yet it has clearly shown that a high quality, highly livable property will always be a better investment bet for attracting renters. There are a few simple reasons for this. If you love and enjoy the space you live in, you’ll stay there for the long term. This means rental stability. The better the quality home means a better quality renter. Renters who are happy living in a property are more likely to take care of it.
"Renters who are happy living in a property are more likely to take good care of it and stay longer."
Introducing DPN's architecturally designed investment properties
This may sound obvious, yet what has long been missing is a product that can weave together a good liveable environment with one that maximises capital returns. But this has all changed. DPN has created an innovative property that pulls off the rare trick of pleasing both the investor and the renter. It’s called the DPN Casa series. DPN Casa is a range of investment homes that are architecturally designed to a standard that rivals and even surpasses owner-occupied homes. Included in the DPN range is a Designer Series 5 bedroom home and a <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/promo/dual" target="_blank">Dual Income</a> home.
DPN Casa also has owner-occupiers interested offering a boutique alternative to a project home at an affordable price. Owner-occupiers can build DPN Casa properties on their own land.
"What makes these properties stand out is the meticulous thought that has gone into the design. Over two years of careful research and work was spent with architects to come up with a designed home that is universally attractive."
What differentiates them from other project homes on the market?
DPN’s Director of Property, Sean Blattman, explains: “Clean lines, efficient use of space and loads of natural light. Large stacking glazed doors and an excellent interface between indoors and outdoors make them very distinctive from what you find out there. The form and functions of the designs are second to none.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/30/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-30%20at%201.51.19%20PM.png" alt=""> 
<a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au/casa/dual-income" target="_blank">DPN Casa: Dual Income.  One Property.Two Rents™</a>
DPN Casa includes within its range a dual income home.
It’s a sophisticated architectural design that allows for two self-contained residences on the same block of land.  They function as two entirely separate and private dwellings and use the space superbly. These homes are often cash-flow positive by a significant amount from day one of tenancy.
The key point to remember is the painstaking time and effort that has gone into creating these designs. It has also been thought out in terms of a holistic journey for both the renter and the investor. Blattman explains:
“The finished home should complete the property investment journey for a DPN customer. It’s the culmination of a customer experience that begins from the first contact they have with DPN to arranging finance, construction of the home, having it tenanted, then looking forward to the next purchase.”
The homes all come with the usual building guarantees and warranties that are important for project homes. However, this product goes even further to ensure peace of mind. Blattman points out: “We also provide a fixed priced guarantee - that the price will not increase during construction and that everything included is ready for rental, with no surprise costs. DPN also work with builders that provide a fixed build time with liquidated damages if the home is not delivered on time. This varies from 16 - 26 weeks.”
The DPN Dual Income homes can be built in New South Wales and Queensland at this stage, although our coverage is expanding. DPN Dual Income homes are available as a house and land package or as a build on your own land subject to meeting site survey requirements.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/30/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-30%20at%201.52.29%20PM.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au" target="_blank">DPN Casa: Designer Series 5 bedroom home</a>
Visually, the home looks stunning. It has a beautiful flow, uses natural light to its absolute best effect and has an exquisite design that remains efficient in terms of its size. A clever use of space means that although the home is technically using the blueprint of a 4 bedroom house, you end up with a five bedroom home and an additional living area - for a similar price. 
A recent Domain survey found that 71% of Australian renters identify the number of bedrooms in a rental property as one of the most important factors in selecting a home. Ample storage also ranked ninth on the must-have list. The DPN Designer 5 bedroom home has all this and more.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/an-investment-property-you-ll-want-to-live-in" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.directpropertynetwork.com.au" target="_blank">DPN</a>. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

An investment property you’ll want to live in

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Australia received the second-largest share worldwide of capital spent on international real estate by property investors from the People’s Republic of China in 2016, according to figures from Juwai.com.
Chinese spent AU$133.7 billion (US$101.4 billion) on international real estate in 2016, a new report from Juwai.com found.
The report predicts Chinese international property acquisition will be lower in 2017 at around AU$104.5 billion (US$80 billion) but will still rank among the top three years on record.
Sue Jong, Chief of Operations for Juwai.com said this is the first time in history that Chinese buyers acquired more than AU$130 billion of international real estate.
“The 2016 total represents a 25.4 percent increase over 2015 and an 845 percent increase over five years," she said.
"Our forecast suggests 2017 will also be one of the top three years on record.
“In Australia, we see that investment flows have decreased markedly from their peak, while remaining strong by historic standards.
"Capital controls, bank lending standards and foreign buyer taxes have combined to wind back the clock to 2015. 
 “Current trends suggest that Chinese property investment this year will be on par with the levels of 2015, or about AU$105 billion.
"That would make 2017 one of the top two or three years in history. While levels are lower than in 2016, they will still be extremely high by any standard.
“We believe we estimate conservatively.
"When we forecast that Chinese investors will acquire more than AU$2 trillion (US$1.5 trillion) of overseas assets in coming decade or so as they close the underinvestment gap. Up to half this new investment could go to property.
According to the report, the top five countries for Chinese investment by dollar value in 2016 are:
1. United States
2. Australia 3. Hong Kong
4. Canada
5. United Kingdom
Vanessa Rader, Head of Research at Ray White Commercial, said the statistics also show markets such as Canada, which have similar investment drivers to Australia, and the impact government imposed taxes has had.
"This gives us a great insight to what 2017 results may look like for Australia," she said.
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Australia reaps second-largest share worldwide of Chinese property investment dollars in 2016

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SPONSORED POST
As a professional writer, Bianca is no stranger to the occasional plot change.
With a long history in the performing arts; from dancing at the Atlanta Olympic Games Closing Ceremony with the Bangarra Dance Company (at just thirteen years of age); studying at one of Australia’s most prestigious acting schools, The Actors Centre Australia; to penning and producing her own comedic television pilot, Coulda Gone Pro – she didn’t exactly have property investing at the forefront of her mind.
However, after extensive travels pursuing her creative ventures that saw her setting up shop in Dublin, LA and London, Bianca felt it was time to settle down.
Now back in Sydney working as a Senior Copywriter for an international beauty company, while freelancing for Fairfax Media as a health and wellness writer, Bianca contemplated options to set herself up for the future. She was always aware of the traditional ideal of ‘security’: buying a home to live in. However, with a creative spirit and a love of travel, this didn’t seem like the right option. In addition, once Bianca crunched the numbers, they spoke for themselves. 
The dream of owning your own home used to mean living in it too. Not for Bianca, she is one of a new breed of investor, the 'rentvestor'. She has the freedom to live where she likes while her property investment pays a weekly income and continues to appreciate.
Bianca shares, “I didn’t want to commit to paying off a mortgage that left me with no money to enjoy life, when I could rent a great apartment within my budget, and still have my finances working for me. 
I was aware of property investing, and had been contemplating my options for some time. Although I had seen friends and family invest, and was now in a financial position to do so myself, I was still apprehensive. 
Being a first-time investor, there was a fear of the unknown because it was all new to me, so I kept putting it off as I didn’t want to lose all my money.” 
As the plot of Bianca’s story progressed, she took the plunge and consulted with DPN’s David Khalil. “David did the initial consultation. He was extremely thorough and tremendously patient, taking the time to clarify every detail and answer a myriad of questions.
“Ultimately, what spurred me on was that property investment could help me reach financial freedom.”
What finally encouraged Bianca to go ahead and invest, was that she saw David Khalil using the strategy personally – to great financial reward. Bianca points out: “The proof is in the pudding. The fact that Dave actually follows the strategies himself, gave me a lot of confidence. He wasn’t just telling me what to do; he had invested his own money, and followed the exact same strategies with impressive success.” 
Ultimately, what spurred her on was how she could see that property investment could one day help her reach financial freedom.  
DPN presented Bianca with a property investment solution 
David alerted Bianca to a house and land package in Currans Hill South-Western Sydney, a suburb of Manooka Valley, which had just become available. It is an area that DPN had identified as having excellent capital growth. In addition, the home was the DPN Casa Second Dual Income – two houses on the same block. The property not only boasts a family-friendly four-bedroom home, but also a chic two-bedroom house. Bianca says she “jumped on it right away” when it was presented to her. DPN assisted in getting a mortgage and recommended property managers.
A Dual Income property that pays two rents
The dual income property allows Bianca to enjoy the passive income from the second home, as well as the remarkable capital growth. The purchase price was $659,961 in Sept 2014, and is now valued at $840,000 in June 2017. That’s a sizeable increase of $180,039 in three years. On top of that, Bianca receives $890 per week in rental income. That works out at a 7 percent rental yield, significantly higher than the average for the suburb. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-28%20at%2012.07.40%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-28%20at%2012.07.40%20PM.png" alt="">
"That's a 7 percent rental yield, significantly higher than the average for the suburb." 
So, she is enjoying a positive rental yield with the extra bite of the cherry in strong capital growth. “I’m very happy with my investment. I purchased before the area skyrocketed, and got a lot of bang for my buck.” 
Both Bianca’s brother and sister have also invested with DPN; with her brother so inspired by her success, that he invested in a Brisbane property.
Today, Bianca is a Senior Creative for a leading advertising agency, while occasionally getting back to her performance roots with presenting appearances on Seven’s ‘The Morning Show’, and Nine’s ‘Today’. Renting by the beach, Bianca enjoys seaside life while watching her investments grow.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/writing-her-own-story" target="_blank">here</a>. 
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
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CASE STUDY: How to invest in property while renting

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SPONSORED POST
Sam Khalil's property investment outlook investigates and dissects recent market changes that Australian property investors should be aware of.
In part one, Sam Khalil gave his thoughts on <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sam-khalil-s-property-investment-outlook-part-one">Australian property investment in 2017</a>.  He looked at performance in the capital cities and identified regions that will continue to grow despite changing market forces. 
In part two, Sam investigates and dissects recent market changes that property investors should be aware of.
Stricter lending rules
There are far tighter lending guidelines than ever before. This has all been generated by ASIC, worried about high levels of risk in a red hot market.  It has trickled down to all the major lenders. CBA and Bankwest are refusing to refinance investors. While AMP will no longer offer new investor loans through their mortgage channel. Other lenders such as MyState have imposed a 12 basis point margin on all variable and fixed rates, for both investment and residential loans. Meanwhile APRA is bringing in a 10 percent speed limit for investors. There could be more restrictions on the horizon with APRA worried about the level of risk in the market.
Overall lenders are charging more for investment loans and then again for interest only. This will make people revaluate their lenders and question if they will purchase at all.
Foreigners locked out of the market
There has been a distinct clamping down on foreign investment over the last year. Westpac is not writing loans for non-residents, ANZ is no longer lending to non-residents and the CBA is following suit. Other banks have similar tight restrictions. The sum effect has been that foreign investors are walking away in droves, many unable to get funding. This in turn will have a flow on effect to the construction industry, impacting on the number of new builds. There’s also speculation that foreign investors will favour apartments over houses even more than they currently do because they need a lesser deposit.
Development slowing down
Developers have seen significant tightening in lending for projects. This has slowed down supply, which may be a stabilising measure to avoid any large property bubble bursting.  Banks have especially tightened down on lending to residential property developers with an oversupply of apartments and high-rise towers an especial concern. This has led to many developers to put projects on hold and others look to for alternate funding.
Shortage of land
There’s a desperate demand for new land supply in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/macarthur-the-sleeping-giant-of-sydney" target="_blank">Sydney’s fringe</a> as well as Wollongong and Newcastle. Developers are finding it extremely difficult to process land through local councils and then register the land. We must hope that the NSW government can fast track services to bring land to the market sooner so pricing doesn’t continue to increase dramatically due to lack of supply. This is the primary issue affecting housing affordability: land supply and how quickly it arrives to the market. Remember there’s always a lag between development and construction and the frantic nature of the market itself.
Apartment oversupply
There’s a real concern about apartment oversupply in the major capital cities, especially in Melbourne. The Commonwealth Bank estimates 140,000 new apartments will be built in the city from 2016 to 2018. This oversupply will ultimately lead to a drop in prices. Some experts are anticipating drastic drops of up to 20 percent in some suburbs by 2019.  So projected growth for apartments in many major cities has hit its peak and is estimated to correct or be sideways for next 5-8 years, with owners losing money and not getting capital growth. So there’s a clear message here: be very wary of apartment purchasing for the next few years. Research the area and project meticulously.
The global market
Well, it’s almost impossible not to talk about the political upheavals last year. From Brexit through to Trump it was a year of surprises. Trump’s avowal to increase spending around infrastructure and his distancing from the Asia trade pacts will certainly have an effect on Australia. His promise to pour money into defence and infrastructure will act as a fiscal stimulus. It’ll also mean lots of capital fleeing Australia and going into the USA. Potentially Australia will have to lift interest rates to compete and keep capital here. This in turn will effect market sentiment. Properties and projects that are vulnerable will be exposed awfully quickly.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-investment-outlook-part-two-winter-2017" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
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Sam Khalil’s property investment outlook - part two

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SPONSORED POST
The Australian property market is shifting and changing thanks to a multitude of forces. DPN's Managing Director, Sam Khalil shares his thoughts on the current market and reveals property investment opportunities in the Wollongong, Newcastle and Brisbane areas.
The last five years have seen a phenomenal surge in the demand for property. It’s been a perfect storm of consistently low interest rates; an endless, thirsty demand for stock and foreign investment at record high levels. This in turn pushed up construction and new builds and kept up supply.
However, like all good things it had to come to an end. This is not to say the market is in trouble by any means. More that it’s no longer like 2012 or 2013 where property investment was like shooting fish in a barrel. Almost anyone with a little knowledge and a lot of luck could do well in the prosperous conditions.
But things have changed in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-outlook-for-summer-2016" target="_blank">the last 12 months</a> and so 2017 and beyond will still present golden opportunities, but only for the canny and well researched investor.
How property investment is changing in the capital cities
2016 saw Melbourne and Sydney continue to rise significantly compared to other Australian cities. Despite gloom and doom predictions - remember there were lots of experts claiming Melbourne would slump in 2016 and that Sydney would stagnate - both cities outperformed expectations. In fact, dwelling prices rose 15.5 percent in Sydney whilst Melbourne had a rise of 13.7 percent for the year.
Perth had experienced seven quarters of negative growth and is in major recovery mode after its boom and bust. However, it may well have reached the bottom and signs are that it’s slowly starting to ascend. In the last 3 months there has been a small increase in property prices for the first time in a long time. It’s still a long way back, but investors who can’t afford the big capital cities may start looking in this direction.
Brisbane started a gentle ascent and should continue to find value in housing and land appreciation, whilst inner city apartments may experience price correction as I detail in part two.
So how will 2017/2018 play out? I’m confident we’ll see rises in Sydney and Melbourne as demand and sentiment still remain positive. Brisbane investment property will continue to follow closely behind. The lending measures that may impact the market and sentiment are the move in interest rates from lenders separate to the Reserve Bank.
Look to the regions
Land in <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/macarthur-the-sleeping-giant-of-sydney" target="_blank">South Western Sydney</a>, Wollongong and Newcastle remains very tight with strong local and investment demand helping sustain and increase prices of land.  These areas will only continue to grow in 2017. It’s not just investors but we’re seeing many Sydney “refugees” – that is younger owner-occupiers - who are moving to these areas in search of houses they can afford. Because all three areas are within coo-ee of Sydney and they all have their own strong infrastructure and local economy they are highly desirable and will continue to rise.
It’s worth noting that Brisbane is also showing signs of upward movement in land values in the metro area. And not just Brisbane itself, but even further out there’s some very strong opportunities as we recently noted in the case of <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/why-springfield-brisbane-is-a-hot-investment" target="_blank">Springfield</a>.
Overall forecast
So what does all this tell us? Sam Khalil’s outlook is positive, there are a myriad of opportunities in the market. Which, as we know, are really <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/how-to-guides/what-is-a-property-market" target="_blank">many different markets</a>.
The caveat being that one has to be more selective as market forces could change due to macro economic factors and policy changes by the regulators as well as the oversupply of apartments. This apartment oversupply poses the greatest risk for investors. It’s a cautionary reminder of not buying through emotion. Or buying the wrong product at the wrong time.
There are some excellent prospects for property investment in the right areas that may not fit investors’ usual comfort zones. 2017/2018 will definitely be about hunting in different fields, certainly not in the usual areas that investors have been doing.
So there won’t be any quick rewards from backing the same winners of the past five years. The investors that will do well in the next 12 months will be those who put in the solid research and are prepared to look in other areas off their normal radar. As always: if you put in the work, the research and don’t automatically follow the herd, you can reap great rewards.
In part two, Sam Khalil investigates and dissects recent market changes that <a href="/expert-insights/investing/sam-khalil-s-property-investment-outlook-part-two">property investors should be aware of</a>.  He covers lending policy, slowing development and challenges with land and apartment supply.
You can read the original article <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/sam-khalil%E2%80%99s-property-investment-outlook-part-one-winter-2017" target="_blank">here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
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Sam Khalil’s property investment outlook - part one

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SPONSORED POST
You can always find reasons why you shouldn’t invest in property. Property investment can seem like a big step and it’s easy to be fearful.  You’ll also hear lots of stories either from others or in the media, which may put you off.
So let’s break down some of the common myths floating about that can scare potential investors.
67 percent of investors using negative gearing have incomes of $80,000 or less.
1. You need a big deposit to invest in property
Not true. Property investment is no longer exclusively the domain of the wealthy. Smart investors who buy wisely, in high yielding areas with good capital growth, can have positively geared properties that cost them very little out of pocket. The Australian Tax Office figures found that 67 per cent of investors using negative gearing have incomes of $80,000 or less. This is not to say that all these investors are successful, but they have certainly been able to break into the market. 
Now, let’s look at the claim you need a giant deposit. Again, this isn’t correct. You can still get into the property market without a deposit by either leveraging off an existing home or getting a guarantor loan through relatives. Using super via an SMSF is another option.
Many property investors don’t own their own homes and so they rent in the suburb they want to live while having a portfolio somewhere else.
2. The market is skewed against first home buyers
There’s been a spate of media stories about how first time buyers are finding it increasingly difficult to break into the big property markets of Sydney and Melbourne. Property investors are blamed for this. However the reality is that there’s a myriad of factors. Basically Sydney and Melbourne are highly desirable places to live. Consequently population has skyrocketed; more global companies have shifted here and both cities are now firmly on the radar of international investors. The good news is that the demand to live in both cities is very unlikely to go down.
The other good news is that first home buyers are now becoming first time investors or “rentvestors”. The line between ‘first time buyers’ and ‘investors’ is very much blurred. The reality is many property investors don’t own their own homes and so they rent in the suburb they want to live while having a portfolio somewhere else.  This is the new reality for the majority of people in most capital cities of Australia as prices gallop to stratospheric levels.
3. Foreign investors make it harder to break in
This is a common complaint from locals especially in Sydney and Melbourne. Surely all the Asian investors buying up so much land and units in the cities is shutting out local investors? Actually, it’s not.
The Federal Government launched the Murray Inquiry in 2014 to look at this very issue. The inquiry found that: “foreign investment is regarded by industry experts as vital to increasing this supply. Rather than causing price pressures, the evidence suggests that foreign investments may actually help keep prices lower by increasing supply.”
It’s also worth noting that foreign investors are often playing in a different pool to local investors. They are restricted from buying established homes and can only buy newly developed properties.  This is why foreign investors are great for the construction industry, as they need more housing stock to be built.  So foreign investors help keep up a demand for supply and the market buoyant.
Your property investment, like the DPN Seconda, needs to be in a growing area with excellent infrastructure and a demand for rentals.
4. It’s best to buy in your local area
This is similar to the myth that says you should buy an investment home you’d like to live in yourself.  The reality is you may never see or visit your investment property. The property you invest in may be thousands of miles away, in another state. Investment can’t be an emotional decision where you buy a house in an area you like that you may want to live in. The investment needs to be based on cold hard facts and data. It needs to be a property with good capital growth in a growing area with excellent infrastructure and a demand for rentals. If it turns out that you have a property you do want to live in at some point, that’s a big bonus. However, as much as we get emotionally invested in properties, that can’t be part of the strategy.
Doing a renovation is no longer a guarantee that it will add exceptional value to the property.
5. Buy, renovate and sell for a quick profit
This idea of buying a rundown property, renovating and then selling quickly afterwards is out of date. Firstly, while the market may rise in the time you’ve bought and then sold, will it really have risen enough to cover all your costs? Plus, you’ll be hit with stamp duty and other property taxes, which will take the sugar out of any profits. We’re seeing now that the land is viewed far more favourably than the house that’s built on it. So that is why rundown, derelict houses on prime inner city land are often just left as they are and sold for a high price. Doing a renovation is no longer a guarantee that it will add exceptional value to the property. Finally, you’re missing out on the long-term capital growth. Good property investors think in the long term.
In conclusion, it’s dangerous to believe popular myths about property investment. No one ever made a fortune by listening to Chinese whispers. Any decision or strategy you make should be informed and backed by data and solid research.
To read the original article, <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au/learn/market-updates/5-myths-about-property-investment-busted" target="_blank">click here</a>.
For more information from <a href="https://www.dpn.com.au" target="_blank">DPN</a>.
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5 myths about property investment, busted!

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The Real Estate Institute of Australia in partnership with the Institute of Public Accountants (IPA) has launched a new training course for real estate agents providing advice regarding property as an investment.
REIA President Malcolm Gunning said the RG146 Advice in Real Estate Course designed by IPA and provided through Mentor Education will allow property investment advisers, mortgage brokers, accountants, real estate agents and property developers to discuss the general drivers and considerations associated with a property investment decisions.
“Offering this course to agents is part of a broader strategy to professionalise the industry and to provide clients the level of advice they desire from agents providing a comprehensive service.
“Upon completion of the course, agents will have satisfactorily fulfilled ASIC’s RG146 requirements and will be able to offer general advice on financial products and services.
This will also allow them to provide factual advice on what the products are and what they do,” Mr Gunning said.
Agents undertaking the course will gain a nationally recognised competency to provide factual advice on financial products and services.
Factual advice is defined by ASIC as “objectively ascertainable information whose truth or accuracy cannot be reasonably questioned”.
This compares to general advice which ASIC defines as “advice prepared without taking into account the client's objectives, financial situations or needs.
“ASIC have indicated that successful completion of the RG 146 course would allow agents to conduct seminars, presentations, office and sales meetings and to discuss in general terms other such as Self Managed Superannuation Funds.
However, an agent would need to need to be authorised by an Australian Financial Services licensee to provide this advice or alternatively obtain an AFS licence themselves,” Mr Gunning said.
REIA commenced discussions with IPA regarding the establishment of a tailored course for Real Estate professionals in regard to property advice following a Supreme Court of NSW decision in October 2015 against Park Trent Properties Group Pty Ltd regarding advice real estate agents give particularly as it relates to SMSFs.
An outline of the course together with enrolment details can be found at <a href="https://www.publicaccountants.org.au/reia" target="_blank">https://www.publicaccountants.org.au/reia</a>.
Members of REI’s that are part of REIA will receive a 10 per cent discount.
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