A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<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]

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

Property Management

<html><body>
The number of rental properties under management at McGrath's company-owned offices has increased to 7,498 as of 31 December 2016.
It franchise office have a further 23,102 properties under management. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/23/McGrath-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/23/McGrath-1.jpg" alt="">
 
 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/23/McGrath-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/23/McGrath-2.jpg" alt="">
As of 1H 2016 the company owned offices secured $9,218,000 worth of property management revenue, which increased in 1H 2017 to $10,042,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/23/McGrath-5.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/23/McGrath-5.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/23/McGrath-6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/23/McGrath-6.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/23/McGrath-7.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/23/McGrath-7.jpg" alt="">
As at 31 December 2016 the network comprised 28 Company owned offices and 68 Franchise offices with 648 agents operating within those offices.
The spread of offices is across the Eastern seaboard with a high concentration in New South Wales.
The Company entered the Victorian market in the prior year, a stated objective and strategic move to bolster the national market share. The total number of offices in Victoria currently stands at 8, and the contribution was $0.5bn in sales value for the 6 months to 31 December 2016.
Total agents has increased marginally over the period to 648.
Agents in the Franchise offices increased 7% to 405 however agents in the company owned offices decreased 8% to 243.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Number of rental properties under management by McGrath increases

<html><body>
Sydney’s residential vacancy rates remained steady at 1.7 per cent, according to data released by the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales. The May 2016 REINSW Vacancy Rate Survey saw slight movements across all Sydney areas but Sydney as a whole remained the same.  Inner Sydney was up 0.2 per cent to 1.5 per cent, Middle Sydney rose 0.1 per cent to 1.7 per cent, while Outer Sydney fell 0.1 per cent at 1.8 per cent.  “Residential vacancy rates have continued the trend of the last 4 months and we expect this rate of supply to continue," REINSW President John Cunningham said.
"We have heard much debate over the possible abolition of negative gearing in recent times, something that we do not support.
"If this was to occur we would expect to see a decline in construction and a fall in vacancy rates. 
 “This in turn would result in landlords trying to increase rents and a fall in prices for new-builds coming into the market as investors are not happy to make a loss on their investments. We believe that existing owners won’t dump their investments but will make sacrifices elsewhere in their household budgets,” Mr Cunningham said.  In the Hunter, vacancy rates fell 0.1 per cent at 2.4 per cent despite a gain of 0.3 per cent to 2.1 per cent in Newcastle. In the Illawarra, vacancy rates fell 0.3 per cent at 1.4 per cent, led by Wollongong which was down 0.5 per cent at 1.2 per cent.  Across regional areas, New England rose 0.4 per cent to 4.0 per cent, Orana rose 0.2 per cent to 3.7 per cent and Coffs Harbour was up 0.7 per cent at 2.3 per cent. Albury fell 0.1 per cent at 2.8 per cent, Central Coast dropped 0.7 per cent at 2.3 per cent and South Coast fell 0.7 per cent at 1.8 per cent.  
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Sydney residential vacancy rate remains steady in May 

<html><body>
With property management making up an average 56% of agency revenue, staff training and marketing spend across the best channels are key to increasing profits, according to a survey data by rental property website Rent.com.au.
Australian property management heads, principals and business development managers were primarily concerned with four key risks to their agency’s profitability: staff turnover, training, rent roll growth and the cost and direction of their advertising and marketing spend, the survey found.
Conversely, key contributors to profitability were marked as the number of secured new managements, ongoing property management fees and income picked up from the sales team.
More than half the respondents (55.2%) in Rent.com.au’s February ‘Best Practice and Finance’ survey indicated their agency set an overall revenue target for the business, while 28.9% reported they had set individual targets for both the sales and management departments. Others indicated the number of managed properties determined their department’s profitability.
Property management heads reported that staff training was primarily allocated between 0-10% annually (78.95%), while 15.79% reported 11-20% of their budget was pushed in that direction. The remaining 5.26% said training was prioritised with 21-30% of their agency’s budget. Total staff turnover in the department was, on average, 5.2% according to the survey.
A summary of the key results include:
 At present, respondents indicated they managed on average 101-200 properties (25.64%), followed by 17.95% for both 301-500 and 500+ ranges.
 38.46% of property management heads indicated they would like to manage more than 500 properties, while 101-200 and 301-500 properties came in equal second on 17.95%.
 The key methods of securing new managements were: Referrals from owners (81.58%), referrals from tenants (41.11%), networking (47.37%) and referrals from the sales team (47.37%).
 Survey respondents indicated they spend the majority of their allocated budget on subscriptions to portals (70.27%)
 41% of property management heads indicated they met with their department every day.
 67.5% said they had a rent arrears percentage under 5%.
“Our results show that property management heads have prioritised growth and staff development by meeting on a regular basis with their teams. The majority (41.03%) indicated they would meet daily with their team, which suggests a strong commitment to immediate support and resolution for potential conflicts,” Rent.com.au CEO and Founder Mark Woschnak said.
Rent arrears are well managed across a number of agencies, with the majority (67.5%) indicating their arrears were under 5%, closely followed by 24.3% with between 6-10%.
Woschnak added that good property management resulted in repeat business and satisfied clients, thus driving up profitability. 
“While the sales impact on a company’s revenue is clear for the 74.58% of respondents who work in an agency that operates across sales and property management, our results indicate that strong communication, knowledge of properties and the local area, a set fee structure and benchmarks are key ‘best practice’ tools.”
The results showed that marketing budget is annually directed to advertising options such as local subscriptions to portals, local sponsorships, Facebook and Google Adwords.
 
</body></html>

Staff training and targeted advertising spend key to profitability for property firms: Rent survey

<html><body>
A critical Victorian property management law been given the go ahead for a much-needed revamp.
The outdated legislation governing the way notices are issued under the Residential Tenancies Act will be revamped in the next few months.
The change will allow for notices of entry to be sent electronically, whereas it currently has to be given by post.
The decision has come after changed to Australia Post's mail service earlier this year which lengthened the postal delivery times.
The REIV believes electronic delivery of notices will improve communication between key stakeholders.
 “The current legislation is no longer relevant," said REIV CEO Enzo Raimondo.
"A tenant may now wait up to a week to receive a notice in the post, which is redundant and impractical."
The proposed changes will allow notices of entry to be sent via e-mail.
“Timely and effective communication between tenants, property managers and landlords will go a long way towards improving these important relationships,” he said.
“The change is a positive one for all parties, including tenants.
"An email allows for a ‘read receipt’ to ensure that the notification is received.
“The changes are long overdue and the Victorian Government’s move to amend the legislation is definitely welcomed by industry.”
 
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Property 101: Victorian property management law gets revamp

<html><body>
The median rental for properties in Sydney's rental heartland, Randwick was unchanged in September-October from the previous quarter, but the average days on the market came down. 
According to a report by <a href="https://www.rent.com.au" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a> the median rental price for a 30-day period was $580 per week, same as the previous quarter, it said.
Surrounding suburbs of Centennial Park, Queens Park, Waverley, Clovelly, Kingsford, Kensington, Coogee and South Coogee, however, commanded a higher median rental of $600 during the quarter, and also the previous one, the data showed.
The average days on the market for rental properties advertised in Randwick in the 90 days covered by the report was 17 days, four days less than the last quarter and about half of the 33 days on the market for properties in nearby suburbs.
There were 102 rental properties advertised in Randwick in the last 30 days before the report came out in mid-October - this is up six from the previous 30 days, the report to landlords noted.
The total number of rental properties in the suburb was 5,230, making up 47.8% of all properties in Randwick, according to ABS data in 2011.
The property composition in Randwick is made up of about 68 percent apartments and 32 percent as houses. 
<a href="/images/2015/12/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-12-16%20at%2011.52.40%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/12/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-12-16%20at%2011.52.40%20AM.png" alt="">
</body></html>

Randwick rentals constant at $580 per week: Rent.com.au report

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Handling your own tenants is much like cutting your own hair – it’s difficult and the end result would be much better off handled by a real professional.
Property managers play a larger role than some might think and often it’s the behind the scenes work that people underestimate. If an owner’s pool of tenants makes managing the kids in Cheaper by the Dozen seem like a breeze, it illustrates the complexities of the details that real estate agents deal with every day.
Renters can become disgruntled when ongoing issues are not dealt with properly and wonder why they can’t just contact their landlord directly. Sometimes, owners managing their own tenancies can be busy with other commitments and are unable to handle issues with the deft hand of a professional or in a timely manner. Often issues escalate into problems if not dealt with quickly; making it crucial the person responsible for managing the property is available full time.
Crucially, property managers are well versed in the legal rights of both the tenant and the owner. This means that both the owner and the tenant are safeguarded in all of their dealings. An agent is more experienced in picking out the ideal tenant that can make consistent payments, meaning less headaches and more time to seek out other investments.
Particularly, locally based agents are more likely to have the time to be devoted to not only the property, but also to the tenant. Local property managers provide a swift response to the inevitable problems that will arise. This is especially important when the owner is interstate or internationally based.
Additionally, your property is not always your only property. Often property owners juggle many places, which makes managing them all role that only a full-time job can handle.
Happy renters mean longer, ongoing relationships and most importantly, renewed leases.  Having a capable real estate agent looking after your investments and tenants effectively manages your properties, keeps your tenants happy, manages any issues before they escalate and most importantly – doesn’t have to bother you with the detail unless crucial.
If you handle your own tenants and they are tangled in a mess of mismanagement, hacking away at the issues can sometimes make the issue worse. Ensuring you have a property manager that has the dexterity and skill to properly handle any upcoming issues protects you and your tenant in the long-term.
Shane Goldfarb is director of <a href="https://www.hodges.com.au/st-kilda-real-estate" target="_blank">Hodges Real Estate St Kilda</a>.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Why do we need property managers? Shane Goldfarb 

<html><body>
Building a secondary dwelling, either on a principal place of residence or out the back of a rental property, for tenants to live in has long been an accepted way of increasing rental yield on applicable homes.
With double the income from one block, the $80,000 to $120,000 outlay to build a granny flat has been undertaken in many areas, in particularly Western Sydney.
However, the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania’s solicitor, Peter Foster, is warning Tasmanian tenants about some of the difficulties.
The main issue remains around the subject of electricity or power connection. Even if the landlords live in the main house, or it is holding tenants itself, it’s advised to have separate meters.
Not only will this make life easier in terms of bills, however not keeping this separate may actually be unlawful under the Act, explains Foster in the latest TUTas advisory email.
“Some owners will insert clauses into leases that seem like a fair compromise. For example, that each household pays half of the power bill. But is going halves just when only two tenants live in the flat while the owner, her husband and three children reside in the adjacent house? It would be reasonable to assume the owner and her family will be consuming more electricity,” writes Foster.
He suggests that there may also be some arrangements where there’s a “per head pay share” where each tenant pays for a divided portion of the bill per person. However, lifestyle imbalances can affect the bills and still have some paying more than they should.
When assessing ‘fairness’, clearly there are many difficulties. The Act is even clearer. Foster explains that the landlord is only able to charge for rent, damage and usage costs of a water bill under the agreement, but that all other charges cannot be collected by the landlord or agent. This would include electricity bills.
The solution may be to have a meter installed at the granny flat. While ne notes that owners have no legal obligation to install the meter it certainly seems the most recommended option.
How have you tackled this issue with your tenants?
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Landlords warned against sharing utilities between main house and granny flat

<html><body>
Everyone wants Christmas to go smoothly – but unit and apartment owners and residents may face a bit of a surprise if they don’t watch their mounting bills.
Archers Body Corporate Management’s partner Grant Mifsud has warned about the price of power over summer as some apartments see bills increase by up to a third.
Bodies corporate would be wise to assess the electricity habits of the building to reduce wastage, according to Mifsud, who said that on a number of levels the body corporate and the residents need to be active to reduce these costs.
“Because all schemes are unique, at the highest level we encourage all our new clients to undertake a full scale energy audit to identify areas to save which might include changing lighting, pumps and timing mechanisms,” he said.
“At a scheme level, bodies corporate should be reviewing the tariff allocation listed on electricity bills to ensure it’s the most effective for the type of scheme and electricity habits. This step alone can save bodies corporate up to 13%.”
He also said bodies corporate should tell the residents how to reduce their individual costs.
Here are four tips for apartment residents and bodies corporate to consider:
<ol>
<li>Adjust timers on common area lighting - as the days get longer, lights can switch on later at night and off earlier in the morning. 
</li>
<li>Review the body corporate’s tariff allocation as detailed on each bill to ensure it is the most efficient tariff for your scheme’s needs. 
</li>
<li>Consider a bulk energy purchase agreement – this is especially effective for large schemes or schemes that have commercial elements with high energy consumption. 
</li>
<li>Talk to an expert consultancy about conducting a full scale energy audit to identify cost saving initiatives to meet your building’s specific needs. Source: Archers Body Corporate Management
</li>
</ol>
 
</body></html>

Four tips for new unit owners over the Christmas season

<html><body>
Every year body corporates have to deal with property damage as a result of schoolies, and mitigating these damages is proving to be difficult.
This year Strata Match has received a flood of calls from apartment owners on what restrictions they can place on schoolies to prevent damages. Whatever preventatives they use, Strata Match warns that it must be lawful and applies to all tenants under the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997.
The Act states if a lot may be used for residential purposes, the by-laws cannot limit and confine the type of residential use.
This means that different by-laws cannot be made for schoolies if they aren’t imposed on other residents. For example imposing a minimum stay to prevent schoolies from actually renting a unit is unlawful.
Strata Match says the Act also prevents the body corporate from taking action, such as locking balcony doors. However, they do have control over things such as time restraints on the use of amenities, and whether or not glass, music or alcohol is allowed.
Although, if these changes are made they cannot be subject to schoolies week nor can they be exclusive to schoolies goers.
As stated by Fair Trading, all guests should be treated the same way. Any rule or condition that you impose should apply to all guests and should be compulsory for the whole year. This is the same with the bond price. 
 
</body></html>

owisniewski-RiYLqnXfKH

Schoolies making it harder for body corporates to protect themselves

<html><body>
A Western Australian property manager, Van Dung Nguyen, formerly of Girrawheen, Perth, has been banned from holding a real estate and business agents’ licence, as well as a triennial certificate, for five years. He was also fined $3,000.
Nguyen failed to deposit rental income into a trust account, receiving $13,660 from a tenant for rent, water rates, strata levies and management fees between January 2012 and October 2012, which he then used to pay personal expenses and unrelated business expenses.
He operated Golden Investments Pty Ltd, which is now deregistered. The owner of the Girrawheen properties was left out of pocket.
Nguyen filed for bankruptcy in September 2013 and now lives in Queensland.
The fine was decided at the Western Australian State Administrative Tribunal on 20 November 2014.
Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll said that income from rental properties needed to be kept separate to the operational account.
“The law requires that rent and other payments from tenants must be placed in a separate trust account so that the transactions are transparent and the funds cannot be mixed with the day to day financial operations of the agency,” Driscoll said.
“This allows for easy auditing and gives both the tenant and property owner confidence to know that their funds are being used appropriately.”
She noted that real estate agents who take money from the trust accounts, even on a borrowing basis, to pay operation expenses are breaking the law.
</body></html>

Property Management

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Property Management

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News