Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Property Investors

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GUEST OBSERVER
If you are looking for a home or property investment that is affordable, has great lifestyle appeal and a solid future, then look no further than 90 minutes south of Sydney to Wollongong. Our local buyer's agent has helped us pin point seven reasons why we believe this area is set to perform.
Wollongong is perhaps best known for its steel works at Port Kembla. Since the original furnace opened in 1930, Wollongong has burgeoned into a vibrant city (officially recognised in 1942) while retaining its relaxed coastal lifestyle.
Since the late 1970’s, Wollongong underwent dramatic change as its economy diversified and transitioned from predominately manufacturing to other industries such as tourism, information technology, hospitality, health services, education, construction, public administration and telecommunications.
This led to large investment in infrastructure, such as the electrification of the Sydney to Wollongong rail line in 1985. The population rapidly expanded as Sydney became within commuting distance and Greater Wollongong is now Australia’s 10th largest city with a population of almost 300,000 people. The Wollongong local government area (LGA) is forecast to grow by around 16.5% over the next 20 years while the CBD was predicted to double between the end of 2014 and mid 2017 thanks to the refurbishment of Crown Street Mall and a number of large apartment buildings due for completion during that time.
Wollongong has changed significantly over the last few decades and I believe real estate in the region is set to shine in 2016 and beyond. Here are the top reasons why:
1.  The ripple effect
The median Sydney house price has grown by around 50% since the start of the growth cycle in 2012. The growth cycle started in the inner ring suburbs and then gradually moved to the middle and outer ring suburbs. Many people are now priced out of the Sydney market and looking to buy in regional areas such as Wollongong, the Southern Highlands and Newcastle.
Wollongong has the unique benefit of being only 80km or 90 minutes via road or rail to Sydney, which allows residents to commute to Sydney. In fact, around 20,000 Wollongong residents do this, which allows them to access higher wages in Sydney while having the attractive lifestyle and lower living costs of Wollongong.
The commute time will be drastically reduced in the future as Stage 2 of the WestConnex project (opening in 2019) will have a ‘tunnel stub’ at Kogarah Golf Course near Sydney airport for the proposed ‘Southern Connector’ freeway linking the M5 in Sydney with the F6 in Wollongong. Once the exact route is announced, Wollongong prices will boom.
2.  Value for money
With a median price of $665,000, you can buy a house in Wollongong for around two-thirds of a Sydney house, which has a median price of $987,000. This is despite being a large city with all the associated amenities and enviable coastal position. However, growth has started to pick up as people realise the value and lifestyle on offer, so I don’t expect this large gap to remain for long.
The northern suburbs are the most expensive in Wollongong as there is a natural geographical boundary between the ocean and the escarpment which limits supply. They also have beautiful beaches, picturesque ocean pools, seaside restaurants and easy access to hiking trails in the Illawarra State Recreation Reserve. Properties located east of the train line are naturally more expensive than those on the western side. Houses in Fairy Meadow, Towradgi and Corrimal are relatively good value as they are priced around the Wollongong average, are relatively close to the CBD and have their own beaches and rail stations. Bellambi is also worth a look as it’s only one station past Corrimal but about $100,000 cheaper.
The Steelworks is located south of the CBD at Port Kembla, Southern suburbs with good prospects include Figtree and Unanderra which have yields for houses and apartments of around 5%. Further south, especially to the west of Lake Illawarra, many developers are offering house and land packages however some of these lack differentiation from their peers, hindering future capital growth. The $1.5 billion Shell Cove project is expected to be completed in 2019, which will include residential property from houses to high density apartments, a town square, shopping precinct, hotel and marina with 300 berths.
3.  Relaxed coastal lifestyle, beaches and entertainment options
Locals love the relaxed Wollongong lifestyle. Beaches and shops aren’t crowded and traffic is a breeze compared to Sydney. From cinemas to golf clubs, art galleries and museums including the interactive Science Centre and Planetarium, Wollongong has it all. The city is now a destination rather than just a cheaper alternative to Sydney and its tourism industry has flourished as a result.
4.  First-class university, hospital and excellent schools
Wollongong University was ranked in the top 10 universities in Australia in 2015 and has over 30,000 students enrolled with almost 500 degrees on offer.
Wollongong Hospital has over 500 beds and recently underwent at $106 million capital works program including the construction of the Illawarra Elective Surgical Services Centre which opened in December 2015. The state-of-the-art facility houses over 100 new beds and a larger intensive care unit (ICU). It can now offer more advanced services, especially in urology and vascular surgery, without referring patients to Sydney.
There are also many well regarded schools in Wollongong including Smiths Hill High School which ranked in the top 50 NSW schools in 2015.  Top class education and hospital facilities are good drivers of local property growth.
5.  Great family and community atmosphere
Wollongong has a fantastic community atmosphere. The area is popular with families and couples, which are the most common demographic of the city. The council also puts on regular free events for locals from community walks to live music performances and beach clean-ups, which help to create a sense of community spirit. The council also provides the free ‘Gong’ shuttle bus which loop in both directions every 10 to 20 minutes from Wollongong Station to Wollongong University via Wollongong Hospital, Burelli Street and the Innovation Campus.
Compared to regional NSW, Wollongong has a higher proportion of 18 to 49 year olds and a lower proportion of other age groups. This is a bright sign for the future because this includes parents in their child bearing years and the majority of the working population.  
6.  Heart of the Illawarra region
Wollongong is the central hub for the Illawarra region and benefits from both locals and tourists from the Royal National Park in the north to Kiama, Gerringong, Nowra and Jervis Bay in the south.
There are over 80,000 jobs in Wollongong and approximately one quarter of the people that work in the city live outside the area. As well as the university and hospital, Wollongong also has all the major stores including department stores Myer, David Jones, Target and Big W.
7.  Local attractions
You can easily spend a week hiking the trails around Wollongong and exploring the beaches, coves and ocean pools dotted along the coast.
The Sublime Point walking track winds though lush coastal rainforest and takes you deep into the Illawarra escarpment.
Wollongong's Blue Mile located along Cliff Road is the best vantage point from which to absorb the beauty of the South Pacific Ocean to the east and the magnificent of the Illawarra Escarpment to the west. The newly constructed boardwalk along the harbour and foreshore is perfect for a casual walk or jog. You can even stop for a coffee or delicious lunch at one of the many seaside dining options along the way. While you’re there, stop by the historic Belmore Basin Lighthouse for a trip back in time and stop to enjoy the view.
Alternatively, the Grand Pacific Drive between Wollongong and Sydney offers great views from the car and takes in breathtaking coastal views and passes over Sea Cliff Bridge – a beautiful road suspended out from the cliff.
There are too many attractions to list here so make sure to leave plenty of time when you visit, because when it comes time to leave you will wish you didn’t have to!
 Rich Harvey is managing director, <a href="https://www.propertybuyer.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertybuyer.com.au</a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The seven reasons Wollongong is set to shine: Rich Harvey

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National Australia Bank is set to raise interest rates for property investors who are paying off principal, as well as interest. 
The rate rise will come into effect on April 4 and be announced to mortgage brokers today, sources told the Street Talk column in The Australian Financial Review.
NAB will lift rates by 0.15 of a percentage point for property investors who are paying off principal, as well as interest. 
The move comes as NAB introduces a new mortgage pricing structure with NAB having its home loan products in four distinct categories. 
Loans will be grouped by both borrower type (owner-occupier or investor) and loan structure (interest-only or principal and interest).
The AFR says it will mark the most differential pricing strategy among the Big Four in the home loan market, contrasting with the "two-tier" mortgage market, which typically now sees investors charged higher rates than owner-occupiers.
Last year NAB lifted rates on interest-only loans, rather than targeting all housing investors which meant there was a minority of property investors at NAB spared the industry-wide crackdown on landlord borrowers. 
Street Talk noted, the hike is still smaller than NAB's 0.29 percentage point rate rise for all of its interest-only customers of last July, a move that was aimed property investors who favour interest-only loans for the higher tax deductions.
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NAB set to raise home loan rates

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GUEST OBSERVER
Consider this: ‘Investor A’ and ‘Investor B’ both purchased separate properties for $400,000 each. Fast forward to fifteen (15) years’ time and ‘Investor A’s’ property is worth $600,000 while ‘Investor B’s’ property is worth $800,000. 
Which property will make a greater contribution to the investor’s retirement?
The answer to this question is very logical however, the initial decision making process for a lot of investors is far from logical.
Decision making is a refined skill. Really good decision making starts by first exploring what ALL of your options are. Often, it won’t be obvious to people what all those options are – one can’t know what they don’t know – so seeking the advice of a genuine specialist will expose us to more options. There can be very few more important financial decisions than picking the right property to invest in.
Property investors ought to first start their decision making process by acknowledging that [as at 2015] there are 9.6 million properties. That’s a lot of choices.
<a href="/images/2016/03/3/A_PropertyChoices.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/3/A_PropertyChoices.jpg" alt="">
Historically speaking, Australia has built on average 160,000 new dwellings each year. Over the last few years, this figure has increased to around 200,000 new dwellings per year. For the purpose of the exercise, let’s say that 180,000 new dwellings are added to the existing pool of 9.6 million dwellings each year. 
Now, it is true that there are bigger tax deductions (depreciation benefits) to claim on brand new property. But, depreciation deductions can also be significant on established properties, too.
At the end of the day though, taxation benefits should not be any investor’s primary reason for investing. While we all want to take advantage of every benefit available, the primary reason for investing is to accumulate a big enough net asset base so that, in the future, we have sufficient passive income without relying on work.
Common sense suggests that ‘Investor B’ referred to earlier is better placed than ‘Investor A’.
Investors need to avoid being ‘lured’ in to the features-and-benefits that property promoters refer to when trying to sell new property.
The sale price of a brand new property typically includes a 40% loading for taxes associated with the initial construction. When compared to the price of a comparable established property, the owner of a new property is behind the eight-ball from Day 1.
Remember, all brand new properties become subject to wear-and-tear anyway. And, unlike machinery, properties don’t have a ‘used by date’ – as properties change hands they are often renovated. A property within my own portfolio is 104 years old and I have incurred less outgoings for repairs and maintenance than many other properties which are decades newer.
An astute property investment decision starts by reviewing the supply-and-demand investment fundamentals of the markets of Australia’s 550 local government jurisdictions – 100% of your options – not by limiting your potential to 2% of your choices (new properties).
 
Simon Pressley is Managing Director of Propertyology, a REIA Hall Of Fame Inductee, property market analyst, accredited property investment adviser, and Buyer’s Agent. <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/more-than-a-buyers-agent/" target="_blank">Propertyology works exclusively with property investors</a> to purchase properties in strategically chosen locations all over Australia.
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spressley-sBoeMhannA

Why investors like old property not new: Simon Pressley

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GUEST OBSERVER
The many questions around whether negative gearing should be removed.
Let's look at some of the questions and the facts. 
1. Currently there are around 30% of the population who rent or around 7.2 million people who are either currently tenants or looking for accommodation. 
2. The government provides only around 4% of public housing for tenants.
3. The private sector provides around 96% of the properties for tenants through investment properties.
4. The ATO figures shows $13 billion in tax deductions claimed by property investors in FY2013.
5. That represents $4.3 billion lost in revenue to government at an average tax rate of 30 percent.
6. If private investors pulled out of property market and the burden of public housing fell more heavily on government, would it cost the government more than the $4 billion it currently gives up in tax. Where would the government get the funds to build these properties to replace the private investors when they are already in such debt 
7. The State governments collect millions of dollars in Stamp Duty and Land Tax due to the active trading and investing in all types of properties. Will the removal of negative gearing have a domino effect on the States economy?
8. Currently the real estate industry has replaced the slowing down in the mining industry. Do we risk killing off another industry and currently is helping the economy in light of the current government debt levels.
9. What happens to industries such as the blue collar industry carpenters, plumbers, electricians etc plus real estate agents and banks etc. if the private investors pulled out of the property market. 
10. Negative gearing applies to all other investments such as shares, businesses, companies and other investments. Is it legislatively possible to remove negative gearing from only one industry, the property investors and not from other investment like shares and business.
11. Negative gearing is simply a fancy term attributed to making losses. If one makes a loss it can be offset against other income.
12. This is the same argument put forward by Labor when they introduced the Mining tax on a booming mining industry. Some accused the Labor Govern= ment of having a "Tax it till it disappears" mentality. But what happens to economic growth if we tax our most productive industry.
13. Is Labor repeating the same mistake with the property industry. Tax it till it disappears.
14. Most property investors are not rich. Over 70% earn income at around $80,000pa or less.
15. Australia's population is aging and should we be encouraging people to become self funded by taking risks in investing in real estate and therefore not rely on an old age pension. The governments debt levels are unsustainable.
16. The great Hawke/Keating Labor government replaced negative gearing after 18 months when rents went through the roof and the waiting list for public housing doubled as private investors left the property market and created a huge shortage of rental properties.
17. Negative gearing means someone is paying out more than they are earning. In other words losing money. Why would anyone do that? It's in the hope that they can make up the losses and more, due to capital gain of the investment. This occurs not just in property but applies to those who invest in shares as well as in businesses and many forms of investments where there is prospect of capital growth.
18. So why would someone take such risks because there are no guarantees that the property market will increase greater than the losses suffered. Many property investors have lost hundreds of thousands dollars.
19. It's an extremely risky strategy and the risk applies across the board to other investments also.
20. It's made more risky if they cannot claim the losses like every other industry can. How can this be fair when one has to pay tax on capital gains but not the losses from negative gearing. It feels like the government wants it both ways.
21. Labor's call to reduce capital gains tax concession from 50% to 25%. But what if someone has made a capital loss. One cannot claim capital losses against other income. This has increased the risk to investing in real estate. Will the returns from real estate now be so low that it no longer becomes an attractive investment to put one's money into and what does the reduction is demand do to prices?
22. Is there sufficient incentive to attract investors back into property to help meet the demand for property and in order to keep both rents and prices down.
23. Our economy is not healthy. We have head winds coming out of Europe and USA. The global market is unstable. Is this a risk to our only industry that is keeping our economy going. Is this the right time to do this?
24. Are property investors discriminated against when one considers they pay stamp duty on purchase and pay land tax for owning it.
25. Share investors do not pay a "share tax" simply for holding the shares or stamp duty on purchase of shares. Share investors still are permitted to negative gear their portfolio.
These are the questions being asked by both sides of those for and those against getting rid of negative gearing. 
 Ed Chan is founder and non executive chairman, Chan &amp; Naylor Accountants and can be contacted <a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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Property 101: Ed Chan's 25 facts you need to know about negative gearing

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Cairns remains a rising market, following a year of continued growth and consolidation as a result of its steadily improving economy and the market being positioned in the rising market phase of the property cycle throughout the year, say Herron Todd White in their latest property clock.
Valuation firm Herron Todd White’s property clock is a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are as at March 2016 and what direction prices are moving in.
<a href="/images/2016/03/2/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-02%20at%2010.20.25%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/2/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-02%20at%2010.20.25%20AM.png" alt="">
Cairns is typically counter-cyclical to the national market, according to HTW. Whenever the national economy slows and the Australian dollar falls, the Cairns tourism industry becomes more competitive, the local economy improves and the real estate market revitalises.
There is good demand for most residential property types and although sales growth has eased, prices continue to rise. 
HTW expects 2016 sales volumes to see a slow but steady increase and flow through to price rises being maintained typically at around the 5% mark. 
There will be on-going demand for rental property which, given the relatively slow rate of new housing development and tighter lending conditions to investors, will keep the supply of rental property moderately tight and maintain a slight upward pressure on rents. 
Cairns remains in a positive position at present compared to the downward adjustments taking place in the major capitals. 
The median price of units in the city was $370,000 at the end of 2015, according to RP Data. There was no comparable data for houses.
As an example of recently sold units around the median, a two-bedroom dwelling at <a href="https://realestateview.com.au/real-estate/161-163-esplanade-cairns-city-qld/property-details-sold-residential-9716215" target="_blank">161-163 Esplanade</a> sold for $388,000, according to www.realestateview.com.au.
HTW noted with new construction and development remaining quiet in Cairns, gentrification is not an especially strong force in the overall development landscape.
The inner suburbs of Cairns North and Parramatta Park have traditionally been the popular gentrification areas of Cairns, with some extension into suburbs such as Edge Hill, Manunda and Westcourt.
It noted the slowdown in new unit development in Cairns.
There was something like 980 new units built on greenfield or recycled sites in Cairns North over the period from 2000 to 2008.
"However there’s been absolutely nothing since."
Parramatta Park has experienced significant gentrification over the years typically based on renovation and modernisation of its older style Queenslander dwellings. This also reflects the character precincts in place in much of Parramatta Park as opposed to the more blank canvas development approach that has taken place in Cairns North.
"By way of example, renovated Queenslanders in Parramatta Park currently command a market range typically of $450,000 to $600,000, compared to a typical market range of $350,000 to $450,000 for unrenovated dwellings." 
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Counter-cyclical Cairns in a positive position in 2016: HTW property clock 

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Queensland’s Toowoomba, Australia’s second largest inland city, has been identified by McGrath Estate Agents chief executive John McGrath as an important growth area.
“Toowoomba is an area that has all the hallmarks for growth," McGrath said, indicating his confidence in the South East Queensland property market.  
"We believe its strong focus and investment on infrastructure, retail, and lifestyle precincts will have an impact on both interstate migration and employment opportunities.  The relatively new airport is having a positive effect on the accessibility of the region, both domestically and into Asian markets. 
“With a median house price of $350,000, the affordability of housing will not only be attractive to treechangers and downsizers but also to the investor market, as major construction is currently underway on several multi-million dollar projects."
The median house price was $364,000 towards the end of 2015, according to RP Data, while for units it was $256,000.
Major projects include the $1.6 billion Toowoomba Second Range Crossing and the $500 million Grand Central Shopping Centre.   
The transformation of Toowoomba Parkland’s Railway Precinct into an urban village and parkland is also ready to begin, with the Toowoomba Regional Council expecting up to 3,300 jobs during construction and a further 1,800 jobs in retail and service industries.
Toby Sandell, principal of McGrath Toowoomba, echoed the same confidence.
“We have seen fewer investors due to the tightening of lending criteria by the banks, however on the flipside, there are more and more first home buyers and upgraders, taking advantage of affordable buying and lower interest rates. There is good demand for quality properties in the right areas.”
Sandell said that younger families have been targeting South Toowoomba and Centenary Heights due to proximity to the shops and schools, with homes selling in the $350,000 to $500,000 range. 
At the higher end, East Toowoomba and Rangeville fetch $500,000 to $800,000.
The dwelling composition of the city was made up of about 81% houses and 12.5% for apartments, while the semi-detached or terraced townhouses made up the rest, RP Data showed.
The population of Toowoomba was 99,482, according to the last ABS Census. 
The city also remains a hotspot for residential property investors, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's recent report.
Unit construction is on at a rapid pace, adds HTW.
Last year, Property Observer had also reported on Toowoomba topping Queensland's property market recovery.
Author and blogger Pete Wargent has also spoke about Toowoomba's success story.
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McGrath earmarks Toowoomba for growth

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Proposed changes to negative gearing would drive up rental prices and hurt Australian renters, REIV president Geoff White said on Wednesday, joining the industry debate over the impact of the move if implemented.
Commenting on an announcement by the Federal ALP in recent days, White said a policy proposal by the Federal Opposition to limit negative gearing to newly constructed houses had not been fully considered.
He said it would be a “double hit” as fewer investment properties became available – driving up rental prices – and a crisis of affordable rental properties would quickly become apparent. Further to this, the government would need to fill the void by providing state-subsidised and built housing.
“The proposal lacks insight, in that it will not only affect the property sector but renters nationally,” said White.
“Already we are seeing a relatively low vacancy rate – that is, the level of available rental housing – at around two per cent in some areas of Melbourne, particularly areas further from the CBD, where families are looking for a rental property they can afford.
“If investors withdrew from the established home market in this vital property belt, it would cause a significant shortage in rental supply and impact heavily on the government of the day.
“More importantly, it will ‘hit’ those who most need help in the housing market.”
He added that Melbourne has experienced a significant population boom in recent years, and available housing is critical to fuel the state’s economy.
“With more than 100,000 new residents moving to the state in the past 12 months – and interstate migration at its highest in 40 years – an ongoing, high level of available housing is essential to meet this demand.”
He added that with about half a million rental properties statewide, much is at stake in tinkering with negative gearing. 
“A small percentage shift in the number of available rental properties in the state would, quite clearly, impact and undermine the lives of tens of thousands of Victorians,” he said.
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Negative gearing changes will hit those who need help: REIV

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The far north Queensland suburb of Woree on the outskirts of Cairns is the highest yielding suburb for units in Australia to November 2015, according to Property Value.
Four other Cairns suburbs, Bungalow, Manundah, Westcourt and Manoora feature on the top ten list below.
Top 10 highest yielding suburbs for units in Australia
Woree, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 8.5% 
Property Observer went looking for recent unit rentals in Woree and came up with these:
1. A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://realestateview.com.au/rental-properties/112-windarra-street-woree-qld/property-details-rent-residential-9958935" target="_blank">3/112 Windarra Street</a> (below) is up for rent at $210 per week. 
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-19%20at%208.17.30%20AM.png" alt="" width="817" height="470">
2. A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-woree-417795458" target="_blank">4/35 Sondrio Close</a> (below) has been listed for $180 pw.
<img src="/images/2016/02/19/woree1.jpg" alt="">
Bungalow, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 8.5% 
Manunda, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 8.4%
Westcourt, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 8.1% 
Risdon Park, Port Pirie City and Dists, SA
AVM Rental Yield: 8.0% 
Elizabeth Downs, Playford, SA
AVM Rental Yield: 7.9% 
Edge Hill, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 7.9% 
Elizabeth Grove, Playford, SA
AVM Rental Yield: 7.8% 
Davoren Park, Playford, SA
AVM Rental Yield: 7.8%
Manoora, Cairns, QLD
AVM Rental Yield: 7.8% 
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Woree, the Queensland location that tops the 10 highest yielding suburbs for units

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Canberra’s commercial property sector is expected to attract an increasing level of offshore attention from investors in 2016.
<div>According to Knight Frank’s Associate Director, Institutional Sales, Canberra, Nic Purdue, there are numerous signs that point to a stronger market and more diversified attention on the capital city this year.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Recent positive economic signs in Canberra are expected to help underlying market fundamentals," he said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"This includes a far more stable vacancy rate, stable incentives and forecast rental growth – all signs that the Canberra commercial market has reached the lowest end of its cycle.” </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Nic said that investors from Asia are looking increasingly towards the Canberra market due to its secure, long-term government tenants. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The current wave of Asian capital is looking to diversify away from Australia’s core markets and into higher-yielding regions, such as Canberra.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“With some volatility in global markets, Canberra is increasingly being considered as a safe haven within the context of the wider Australian market place.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"Australia remains attractive for offshore investors who are drawn by the low Australian dollar, cost-effective borrowing and government stability and should the global volatility continue there will be a case for the RBA to keep rates on hold, adding to the attractiveness of Canberra as a market."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“We are already receiving increased interest from Asian countries including Korea, Singapore and Malaysia.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"In December 2015 Korea’s FG Asset Management purchased the Louisa Lawson Building for approx. $225 million and we anticipate that this significant transaction will lead to more interest from these groups in 2016.” </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mr Purdue said that Canberra hasn’t yet seen the influx of Chinese investors in the commercial market, although the residential market has seen plenty of interest. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Canberra’s commercial sector hasn’t yet seen the levels of demand from Chinese investors that other capital cities have seen, but that could also change.” </div>
<div> </div>
<div>According to Nic, hotel buyers from Asia are seriously considering Canberra at the moment and actively seeking opportunities.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“In addition to interest in the commercial office sector, we have recently received several enquiries for hotels in Canberra on behalf of Asian hotel groups," he said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"We expect this interest to continue.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A final factor that may have a positive impact on the flow of Asian investment into Canberra, according to Nic, is the potential upcoming announcement by Singapore Airlines that they may look at initiating direct flights between Canberra and Asia. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>“As reported in the media over the past week, if Singapore Airlines does create a direct flight route between Canberra and Asia, this will continue to build the case as an investment destination for Asian investors,” he concluded.</div>
</div>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Asian investors size up Canberra office market

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The lower dollar continues to work away on Arrivals and Departure trends, with a further +1.8 per cent seasonally adjusted increase in the number of short term arrivals in November, and a -2.8 per cent decrease in the equivalent number of departures.  
The monthly ratio of short term departures this continues to decline, which will act as a twin boost for the domestic economy.
<img class="aligncenter img-responsive" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b73svb4ZFPU/VpUnsI93FyI/AAAAAAAAak0/7_yWcorhIAA/s640/A2.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="320">
The labour market is not presently strong enough to warrant the exceedingly high level of net permanent and long term immigration seen in 2013 of above 400,000.
The rolling annual figure is now seemingly getting set to stabilise – in November the rolling annual total ticked down slightly from 278,200 to 277,600, with the decline being felt most keenly in the resources states and the regions, as opposed to the largest capital cities.
 
<img class="aligncenter img-responsive" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-O7WpgUtq3xE/VpUnsHJlouI/AAAAAAAAaks/zY07p-aR25M/s640/A1.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="322">
 
The most recent <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.sg/2015/12/students-to-drive-population" target="_blank">forecasts</a> from the Department of Immigration &amp; Border Protection (DIBP) show that the population growth rebound for the remainder of this decade will be driven by international students rather than by immigrants on 457 or permanent resident visas.
<h4>RECORD CHINESE TOURISM</h4>
The annual number of short term arrivals into Australia surged to a new record high of 7.36 million in November.
There have been significant increases in the number of visitors from India (+19 per cent) and the United States (+9 per cent) over the past year, Americans doubtless encouraged by favourable shifts in the exchange rate.
There can no doubting the key trend here, however, which has been the vast +17 per cent increase in the number of visitors from China, Hong Kong and Taiwan to 1.36 million.
The pace and scale of the increase over the past decade has been breathtaking, as documented regularly on this blog.
 
<img class="aligncenter img-responsive" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7I2RT3jAbrU/VpUns-kh5eI/AAAAAAAAak4/zg5drP4jalk/s640/A4.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="328">
For the first time China alone accounted for more than 1 million visitors in the year to November, and make no mistake, Chinese tourists spend up big when they come to Australia.
<h4>STUDENTS</h4>
A record 3.38 million persons came to Australia for a holiday over the year, while for the first time this year more than 2 million cited there reason for journey as “visiting friends and relatives”, reflective of Australia’s status as a country built on immigration.
 
<img class="aligncenter img-responsive" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1Fex7hVrZI/VpUnsNsACqI/AAAAAAAAakw/40K-WQd6p_0/s640/A3.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="326">
 
The other key trend to watch this year is the explosion in the number of international students, not least because following a streamlining of the acceptance rules so many are expected to go on to become permanent residents on other visas.
This data series confirmed that the rolling annual number of education arrivals jumped by an unprecedented +71,200 or +18 per cent to 464,600 in the year to November.
 
<img class="aligncenter img-responsive" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSAHnIJp5Ec/VpUns7Fo29I/AAAAAAAAak8/Bhsg-ejlFSg/s640/A5.jpg" alt="" width="640" height="312">
 
Most students are projected to be accepted into the large capital cities.
Pete Wargent is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and blogger.
 
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