<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Joel Robinson

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Investors may soon find themselves with fewer reasons to buy established property and more incentives to look towards the new apartment market.

Proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions would see new and off-the-plan apartments retain access to the tax benefits, while established properties would miss out, creating a clear advantage for buyers purchasing newly built housing.

The policy direction aligns with what many developers have been saying for several years. Australia needs more housing supply, and governments are increasingly looking for ways to encourage investment into new stock rather than existing homes.

The challenge for investors is that suitable product is becoming harder to find.

For much of the last decade, one-bedroom apartments were the cornerstone of investor demand. They offered a lower entry price, strong rental appeal, and were a common feature across most apartment developments.

Today, the development pipeline looks very different.

Across both New South Wales and South East Queensland, developers are increasingly targeting owner-occupiers and downsizers, delivering larger two, three and four-bedroom apartments in response to changing buyer preferences. While one-bedroom apartments still exist, they now form a much smaller portion of many new projects.

That shift has created a shortage of investor-friendly stock, particularly in well-located projects close to transport, employment hubs and lifestyle amenity.

At the same time, rising apartment prices have pushed many new developments beyond the reach of traditional investors. On the Gold Coast and across South East Queensland, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find new apartments priced around the $1 million mark, particularly those offering strong rental fundamentals and long-term growth prospects.

We've rounded up four new apartment developments where investors can still secure a foothold in the market for around $1 million or less.

<h2 data-end="1140" data-start="844">Flourish Soleira</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $1.07 million</h2>

Popular Palm Beach developer Sherpa is soon to officially launch its newest local apartment development, Flourish Soleira.

The one-bedroom apartments in the building were only offered to first home buyers rather than investors, and all of those have been snapped up. The two-bedroom apartments will start from $1.07 million, and the three-bedrooms, still a good investment given the popularity of Palm Beach for owner-occupiers, starting at $2,045,000.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

Flourish Soliera will comprise 153 apartments across two buildings, connected by a skybridge, the first ever delivered in the suburb.

True to Sherpa's booming Flourish brand of apartment projects, Flourish Soleira will have extensive rooftop amenity across both buildings including a&nbsp;wellness centre with gym, work from home, yoga, pilates, a&nbsp;heated pool, private dining rooms, pizza oven and barbecues, basketball court, and golf simulator.

<h2>Corallo, Palm Beach</h2>

Priced from: $841,500

Nearby Flourish Soleira is Changfa Group's beachfront-inspired Corallo development. They still have some one-bedroom apartments remaining, priced from $841,500.

The 105-apartment project on Palm Beach Avenue is otherwise dominated by larger two and three-bedroom residences, many of which are aimed at owner-occupiers and downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=808]

For investors, the appeal lies in Palm Beach's continued transformation from a laid-back beachside suburb into one of the Gold Coast's most sought-after residential markets. Residents at Corallo will be within walking distance of Palm Beach's surf beaches, the recreational amenity of Tallebudgera Creek, and the increasingly popular collection of cafes, restaurants and boutique retailers along the suburb's central dining precinct.

<h2>Corner House, Stones Corner</h2>

<h2>Priced from: $880,000</h2>

One of only two Brisbane apartment developments to make the list with prices under $1 million is DeMartini Fletcher's Corner House development in Stones Corner.

One-bedroom apartments start from $880,000 within the 88-apartment development, providing investors with exposure to one of Brisbane's most established inner-south locations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149098 project_image_fid=330594]

Stones Corner has long been supported by strong tenant demand due to its proximity to major employment and education destinations. The suburb sits less than five kilometres from Brisbane's CBD and is within easy reach of the Princess Alexandra Hospital, Greenslopes Private Hospital, Queensland Children's Hospital and several university campuses.

The project's location within a walkable urban village environment, surrounded by retail, dining and public transport infrastructure, continues to attract both professionals and healthcare workers seeking accommodation close to work.

Parkdrive Apartments, Chermside

Priced from: $749,000

The most affordable apartments across Brisbane's new and off the plan market are in Chermside where developer AusDev is selling one-bedroom apartments from $749,000, and two-beds from $929,000, at its recently launched Parkdrive development.

The development is strategically positioned in one of Brisbane's largest employment and retail precincts, placing residents within easy walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, St Vincent's Private Hospital Northside and the suburb's major bus interchange.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Already under construction and scheduled for completion in early 2028, Parkdrive benefits from Chermside's ongoing evolution into Brisbane's northern metropolitan centre. The suburb continues to attract significant public and private investment, supporting population growth and underpinning long-term rental demand.

For investors focused on yield and tenant depth, the combination of healthcare, retail and transport infrastructure within close proximity provides a strong foundation for occupancy and rental performance.

Investors to turn to new apartments after Federal Government changes spark hunt for Queensland's best $1 million apartments

A mix of Gold Coast locals, fly-in, fly-out purchasers from Sydney and Melbourne, and Brisbane-based families has driven early sales success at Broadbeach's newest apartment tower, Lumara.

The 26-level project, a joint venture between builder-developer 5Point Projects and Bourke Projects, comprises just 37 luxury residences and is attracting a buyer profile that is looking for exclusivity, above the most amenity-rich suburb on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=364156]

Jamie Bourke, Director of Bourke Projects, says every buyer secured so far intends to use Lumara as a lock-up-and-leave residence, combining holiday use with the ability to work remotely when required.

“The size of the apartments, both half- and full-floor options, and the different zones within the floorplans, lends itself perfectly to dedicated home office setups and multi-generational family holidays,” Bourke says.

That flexibility has become a key drawcard for affluent buyers seeking a second residence on the Gold Coast without sacrificing the ability to conduct business away from their primary home base.

The absence of holiday letting within the building has also resonated strongly with purchasers.

“This type of buyer doesn't need to generate holiday rental income,” Bourke says. “They're paying for exclusivity, privacy and certainty around who their neighbours are.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366491]

The strong demand comes amid broader shifts in the high-end apartment market following the Federal Budget announcements in May.

“We were already seeing strong enquiry from high-net-worth buyers, but that has only accelerated since the policy changes,” Bourke says.

“A lot of those buyers are looking to place more capital into premium lifestyle assets rather than investment-grade stock that has been targeted by the Federal Government.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150454 project_image_fid=366486]

Designed by Cottee Parker, Lumara adopts a slender, sculpted form with an emphasis on natural materials suited to its beachfront setting. The architectural approach draws on coastal influences, with a palette of stone, timber and concrete selected for durability and the ability to weather over time.

Apartments are limited to three and four-bedroom configurations, with a maximum of two residences per floor through the mid-levels and a selection of full-floor and dual-level homes in the upper levels. All apartments are oriented to the north to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and views across the ocean, city skyline and hinterland.

A two-level amenity offering is positioned high within the building on levels 20 and 21, conceived as a sky wellness retreat. Facilities include a magnesium pool, spa, sauna and steam rooms, alongside more social spaces such as a private dining room, resident lounge, workspaces and outdoor barbecue areas integrated with landscaped greenery.

The uppermost levels are reserved for larger-format residences, including several full-floor homes and a dual-level penthouse with its own private wellness features and recreational spaces.

&nbsp;

To give buyers confidence, 5Point and Bourke commenced construction ahead of the apartments launching to the market, a sure-fire way to prove they mean business, and the building will be delivered. They are targeting a 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150454]

Locals, interstate holiday makers, drive early sales at Lumara, Broadbeach's newest luxury apartment tower

Often when it comes to purchasing property, the biggest barrier to entry is the deposit. Buyers of established homes typically aim for a 20 per cent deposit to avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance, while most property transactions require around a 10 per cent deposit when contracts are exchanged.

The off-the-plan market works differently, with buyers typically paying a deposit during construction and settling the balance upon completion. As completion approaches at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fabbrica-fitzroy-369-gore-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Fabbrica Fitzroy</a>, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pace-development-group">Pace</a> is making it easier for buyers to secure a residence through a deposit-matching incentive. Purchasers need only contribute a five per cent deposit*, with Pace matching the remaining five per cent.

The offer comes as Pace unveils a completed display apartment and townhouse, now available for inspection by appointment ahead of the project's Spring completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371009]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/winwood-mckenzie-architecture">Winwood Mckenzie</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a>, Fabbrica draws on Fitzroy’s industrial and manufacturing history, incorporating references to the former Argyle Shirt Factory and Life Savers Confectionery Company that once occupied the site.

The development comprises 85 residences, spanning low-maintenance apartments through to larger-format townhouses with private street access and double lock-up garages, a relatively uncommon offering in Fitzroy’s higher-density apartment market.

Pace says the project has been designed to appeal to buyers seeking inner-city convenience without sacrificing space, flexibility, or amenity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371016]

Inside the residences, Winwood Mckenzie has focused on adaptable layouts and integrated detailing, with features including custom joinery, and concealed storage solutions. The material palette leans into warm, tactile finishes intended to complement the building’s industrial architectural language.

Fabbrica’s rooftop amenity is a key part of the project offering. Spanning around 800 sqm, the communal rooftop includes a private dining room, communal kitchen, lounge spaces, work-from-home zones, and outdoor dining areas overlooking the Melbourne CBD skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371017]

Landscape architecture studio Acre has introduced a layered rooftop garden designed to soften the urban setting while creating a more communal environment for residents.

The Fitzroy location also positions residents within walking distance of Brunswick Street, Smith Street, parks, cafés, galleries, and public transport, while remaining only minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. The project has an enviable Walk Score of 96.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139552 project_image_fid=371025]

Pace, which is also delivering the project as builder, has developed more than 100 projects across Melbourne over the past three decades. The vertically integrated approach has become increasingly common among developers seeking greater control over construction delivery amid broader market pressures affecting the apartment sector.

The strikingly contemporary Gore Street development is now around 70 per cent complete, with purchasers expected to move into their new homes in Spring 2026. A limited number of residences remain available under the current deposit match offer.

*Conditions apply in relation to the deposit match offer.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139552]

Pace offers five per cent deposit match at Fabbrica Fitzroy ahead of Spring completion

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

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

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>
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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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