Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

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Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

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Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

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Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

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The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

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North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

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McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

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A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

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Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

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Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

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More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Iwan Sunito secures approval for $1.9 billion Five Dock mixed-use precinct

Property News

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GUEST OBSERVER
The Melbourne Institute (MI) Inflationary Expectations are reported as a 30% symmetric trimmed mean utilising all responses except for the ‘don’t know’ responses. Compared to the previous old trimmed mean, this adds 2ppt to the level of the index (below).
<a href="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%2011.00.04%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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But the new series appears to express greater cyclical amplitude (charts below) which can be useful for picking turning points in the inflation cycle.
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In September, consumer expectations for the annual pace of inflation lifted to 3.5% from 3.2% and now on a moderating trend since the 4.0% print in May 2014. The trend is now 3.4%yr and has been so since April 2015. Expectations continue to remain well below the average since 1995 of 4.5% (chart below).
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Inflationary expectations remain well contained. Despite an expectation for some pass-through to consumer goods from the weaker Australian dollar, we are yet to see these have any impact on consumers’ inflationary expectations.
Justin Smirk is ‎senior economist, Westpac Group and can be contacted <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/about-westpac/westpac-group/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Inflationary expectations remain well contained: Westpac's Justin Smirk

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Property on Queensland's Sunshine Coast has had strong enquiry levels and good sales volumes, according to Herron Todd White.
Herron Todd White's October Month in Review found the the highest growth in sale volumes and values in the first half of 2015 was in the sub $500,000 housing market which is bleeding into the $600,000 to $700,000 bracket.
"Sub $550,000 housing on the coastal areas continues to be extremely popular with buyers placing a greater emphasis on the underlying land value of the property," the report noted.
"Two examples of the market movement over the two years are from Peregian where one property sold in January 2013 for $466,000 and resold in March 2015 for $515,000 and another was purchased in May 2013 for $482,000 and has recently sold for $560,000. 
 
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Sunshine Coast sales volumes stable: Herron Todd White

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The housing market between $300,000 and $400,000 in Warrnambool is hot at the moment, according to Herron Todd White.
Herron Todd White's October Month in Review found three bedroom brick veneer houses in North Warnambool built within the last decade as particularly hot, with interest driven by strong rental returns for investors.
"The drivers behind this market are the strong rental returns investors can expect to achieve and the affordability for young families who want something new without the hassle of building," HTW noted.
"Although there is somewhat of a demand for this type of property we have not seen significant increases in value due to the current supply of land within Warrnambool. This statement is true for the entire Warrnambool residential property market which has seen little increase over the past 24 to 36 months.
"Due to the current availability of residential land and demand for newly constructed dwellings, older constructed dwellings appear to be the property type being hit hardest, with a decrease in value and demand for properties built in the 1980s and mid 1990s. This current trend appears to be sustainable for the foreseeable future."
The local unit market, according to HTW, are in good demand at present with two-bedroom units priced between $225,000 and $275,000, and newly constructed three-bedroom units priced between $325,000 and $375,000.
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Warrnambool housing market heating up: Herron Todd White

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At Property Bloom we are always trying to improve our process.  We put a lot of time and effort into designing our villas, houses or units whether they be for a dual occupancy or multi unit project, we want our finished product to look better than the standard 'investor stock'.
Of course, we need to do this in a cost effective way and so I've found that spending time on key areas like front façades, kitchens and bathrooms can add a wow factor without breaking the budget.
I read this great story about <a href="https://www.houzz.com.au/ideabooks/53600916/list/12-hot-kitchen-trends-set-to-sizzle-in-2016" target="_blank">12 hot kitchen trends</a> and was pleased to see we were meeting seven of the twelve trends in the kitchens we are building right now.
Here's a photo of a kitchen in one of our recently completed developments:
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.45.50%20AM.png" alt="" width="508" height="325">
 
Timber features for kitchens continues to trend. We've used it in our kitchen to add warmth and it was nice to see the report notes that walnut tones  will be trending next year. The timber cupboards we've used are Polytec European Walnut. 
You can also add texture by using a textured product to your cupboards. We did this by using a textured melamine to the timber areas. Which brings me to the next trend - texture.
 Most kitchen manufacturers offer a good choice of textured laminate benches or melamine cupboards and they are usually the same price as flat surfaces.  You can add texture to your splashback tile. We have used a softly lined splashback tile, although it's hard to see in the photo.
We purposely kept the main cabinetry neutral which ticks another trend box. We only wanted two main features for the kitchen which is the use of timber and stone for the benches.
Thin benches are in and it's goodbye to chunky style benches.  This is a relief as we used a thin, engineered stone bench with mitred edges. This was a choice more around cost than trend as the thicker bench tops were more expensive.  
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.46.48%20AM.png" alt="" width="553" height="340">
Engineered stone benches have become so well manufactured that it can be hard to tell the difference from natural materials.In an investment property it doesn't make sense to use real marble or granite so we are meeting the trend to use engineered materials. I love the wider choice of colours and tones you can get from the various supplies of engineered stone benches. It's important your bench works in well with your flooring, especially if you are using a mitred or waterfall edge where the bench will meet the floor.
Speaking of flooring, we've used a stone look floor tile with a polished finish. I like the floor to reflect light which can give the impression of a large, clean space. But perhaps this is not right on trend as I think more natural and matt finishes are in right now.
For our pendant lights, we've used a small white pendant with a silver foil lining inside it. This adds a little touch of glam. So we are only just half ticking the trend of using precious metals. If you really want to be on trend you should incorporate some brass, cooper or gold which may be used in the lighting, tapware, rangehood or splashback.But we didn't want to compete with the natural timber tones that were already a feature. Be careful not to have too many features as they can compete with each other giving you a cluttered or busy look.
<img src="/images/2015/10/16/Screen%20Shot%202015-10-16%20at%209.47.32%20AM.png" alt="" width="436" height="277">
I find designing the kitchens and choosing the colours one of the most enjoyable parts of property development and valuers have told me that a well designed, spacious kitchen with quality features will add value to your property. If you'd like to know just how much this kitchen cost us, then send me an email and I'll be happy to share.      
Jo Chivers is chief executive officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>.
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Is your property development ticking kitchen trends?: Jo Chivers

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Property industry salary rises are creeping up, according to the findings in the Avdiev Property Industry Remuneration Report 2015 October update.
Salary rises vary across market sectors and seniority of staff, it found.
Real estate agency senior staff and built environment consultant mid- level staff and juniors were the major recipients. 
Senior employees have been the beneficiaries of the usual full pay increases granted in the last reviews, most other levels of staff have enjoyed a 3% pay rise with the notable exception of the retirement living/aged care market sector, where only junior staff were given a 3% pay increase.
The median annual pay rise of 3% across all property, investment and construction markets and the built environment consultants has not varied since last year.
Predictions for next year continue at 3% overall, but property development higher for all levels.
Short term and long term incentives have remained unchanged for majority of senior staff and forecast to remain the same for 2016.
<a href="https://www.avdiev.com.au/" target="_blank">The authoritative 29th report</a> found 71% of responding companies were happy with their recent business performance.
“Business and consumer confidence have improved recently” said Rita Avdiev, Managing Director of The Avdiev Group, remuneration consultants. 
“This is particularly evident in NSW where the whole property and built environment consulting industry is buzzing in every market sector.”
The latest Avdiev Remuneration Report October Update, the product of a formal Australia wide survey of property, investment, construction employers and built environment related consulting companies, finds that business conditions have improved for 52% of respondents and remained stable for 41%.
Only 7% reported a drop in company performance from 12 months ago. 
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Property industry salaries rising: Avdiev

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GUEST OBSERVER
When a couple of gloomy reports are produced on the housing market, it is always good to get a calm, reasoned view from the Reserve Bank. Reserve Bank Deputy Governor Philip Lowe believes we are at the point “where supply is kicking in” in the Sydney housing market.
In other words, demand for homes has been strong, exceeding supply, and resulting in strong growth of home prices. But now Lowe believes that more homes are being built to meet the strong demand and that should lead to more modest growth in home prices.
The Reserve Bank Deputy Governor does warn that “people need to be careful” when it comes to the housing market – and that is always useful advice. But the Deputy Governor has clearly distanced the RBA from some of the housing market ‘gloom and doom’ stories.
The Reserve Bank Deputy Governor dismissed assertions that business and consumer confidence were weak (“that is just not right”). And with exquisite timing, consumer confidence lifted 5.1 per cent in the latest week while business confidence also improved. But we shouldn’t be under any illusions – consumers like a stronger Aussie dollar and the dollar soared last week. We can wrap it up in different ways, but the dollar no doubt had a lot to do with boosting sentiment levels.
The latest business survey was solid. Business sentiment rose and operating conditions are well above “normal” – in fact the smoothed measure of business conditions hit 5-year highs. In addition, the employment component of the survey hit a 4-year high and there were more signs of inflationary pressures.
The one area of concern is that businesses still aren’t keen to borrow. Almost 80 per cent of firms indicated that no borrowing was required in September. This may mean that businesses are living within their means. But with interest rates at record lows, the absence of borrowing is surprising.  
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What do the figures show?
National Australia Bank Business Survey:
The NAB business conditions index eased slightly from +9.2 points to 9.1 points in September but the rolling annual average hit a 5-year high. The business confidence index rose from +0.8 points to 5.1 points. The survey was conducted from September 24 to 30. 
NAB noted: “There remains, however, a notable divergence in business conditions across industries. Services industries continue to outperform, while the mining industry trails well behind. It is promising though that mining and manufacturing were the only industries to report negative conditions – just the second time only two industries have been negative since mid-2011.”
“Not all industries saw a lift in confidence, however, with the improvement largely concentrated in transport/utilities (up 14) and personal services (up 12). Both these industries are enjoying the highest confidence levels (at +13 and +16 points respectively); while unsurprisingly mining firms were least confident (at -14).
Components. The index of trading conditions fell from +19.1 to +15.4; employment rose from minus 0.8 points to a 51-month high of +4.5 points; profitability eased from +10.4 points to +7.6 points; forward orders fell from +4.6 points to +2.8 points.
Inflationary indicators were higher in September. The monthly reading of labour costs rose at a 0.6 per cent quarterly rate in September, up from 0.5% in August. Purchase costs rose at a 1.0% quarterly rate in September, after a 0.8% rise in August. Final product prices were up 0.2% in September. And retail prices were up by 1.2%t in September after a 0.7% rise in August.
Capacity utilisation rose from 81.2 to a 44-month high of 81.3%, matching the result in June. Capacity use is above the long-term average of 81.0%.
The proportion of firms reporting that they did not require credit rose from 52% in August to a record high of 79% in September.
Consumer sentiment
The weekly ANZ/Roy Morgan consumer confidence rating rose by 5.1% to a 15-week high of 115.6 in the week to October 11. Confidence is up 1.6% over the year and above the average of 111.4 since 2014.
All of the five components of the index rose in the latest week:
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<li>The estimate of family finances compared with a year ago was up from +4 to +9;</li>
<li>The estimate of family finances over the next year was up from +22 to +30;</li>
<li>Economic conditions over the next 12 months was up from -4 to -1;</li>
<li>Economic conditions over the next 5 years was up from +2 to +13;</li>
<li>The measure of whether it was a good time to buy a major household item was up from +26 points to +27 points.</li>
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Speech by Reserve Bank Deputy Governor
Reserve Bank Deputy Governor, Philip Lowe, delivered a speech “Fundamentals and Flexibility” 
“I would like to focus on a different set of fundamentals: that is, the fundamentals of the Australian economy. My central message is that these fundamentals are strong and that they provide us with the basis to be optimistic about the future.” 
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In terms of economic fundamentals, Lowe highlighted five factors: the institutional framework; “our people”; mineral resources; agricultural assets; and “our links with Asia and our expertise in delivering high-quality services.” 
“Together, this combination of fundamentals should provide us with confidence that we can continue to experience advances in our living standards. It is a combination of fundamentals that few other countries enjoy.”
Philip Lowe highlighted a number of areas that affect flexibility such as exchange rates; and the financial system.
Philip Lowe highlighted four factors outside central bank control that improve flexibility of the economy: the competitive environment in which firms operate; incentives to innovate and to start new businesses; operation of the labour market; and the nature of our education system.
What is the importance of the economic data?
The monthly National Australia Bank business survey is valuable in providing a timely reading about the health of Corporate Australia. Key indicators of business conditions such as orders, employment, profitability and capacity use are covered together with a gauge on confidence levels.
The ANZ/Roy Morgan weekly survey of consumer confidence closely tracks the monthly Westpac/Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index but the former measure is a timelier assessment of consumer attitudes and is now closely tracked by the Reserve Bank.
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
The Reserve Bank Deputy Governor has admitted that interest rates are less effective than they used to be. So the Reserve Bank won’t be rushing to change interest rate settings. The good news is that the Reserve Bank Deputy Governor remains very positive on the outlook and that is backed by the latest economic data. In short, there are simply no reasons to be touching rates.
The environment remains positive for businesses selling consumer goods and services. The outlook for family finances – the part of the consumer sentiment survey that the Reserve Bank tracks closely – hit a 20-month high in the latest week.
No one should get too complacent on inflation. The NAB business survey notes “Consumer price pressures building” with retail prices lifting at the fastest quarterly rate for over three years.
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Craig James is the chief economist at <a href="https://www.comsec.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">CommSec</a>.
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RBA says Sydney supply kicking in: CommSec's Craig James

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There is no one correct strategy for successful property investment.
There are many diverse ways to grow your wealth with residential real estate. The best strategy depends on the individual. 
But the various methods have one thing in common. They work only if the individual investor implements the plan with intelligence and diligence.
I’ve been involved in a series of seminars in recent weeks, as a speaker and as an organiser. I’ve witnessed discussion of numerous investment strategies. They all work, so long as the individual investor is accesses good information, taps into quality advice and makes good locational choices. 
I’ve presented at a number of seminars organised by Melbourne-based Performance Property Advisory. This business has a very clear approach to property investment on behalf of its clients, based on a singular focus on the one capital city that presents the best buying opportunities and potential for capital growth. Three years ago it was Sydney and more recently Brisbane was the focus.
The approach is very much quality homes in inner-city suburbs. From what I can tell, it works well for Performance Property’s client base. It’s a good strategy but there are others equally valid.
One of the approaches used by Brisbane-based PPI Advice is creating equity by buying houses where the land and zoning allow additional dwellings on the property. They’re focused primarily on inner and middle-ring suburbs of Brisbane, when the housing and amenities are of a high standard.
I’ve seen examples where investors have had considerable success with this kind of value-adding exercise. Done well, equity of $400,000 or $500,000 can be generated on one property.
On Saturday I spoke at a Melbourne seminar organised by Louise Lucas and the Property Education Company. Other speakers included clients of the business who have built substantial portfolios of well-performing properties by buying in affordable suburbs of capital cities and in good regional centres.
Some of the properties featured were what I sometimes refer to as “ugly real estate” – the kind of houses that make you think “I’m not sure I’d want to live in something like that”, located in downmarket suburbs with a certain kind of reputation.
But I know from three decades of research that ugly real estate grows strongly in value if it has certain qualities. If it’s solid, affordable and well-located in terms of public transport, schools and shops, it’ll appreciate in value. It doesn’t need to be pretty to achieve good capital growth.
Many downmarket suburbs have excellent capital growth rates. That’s why I often urge investors not to be real estate snobs. The key question is not “Would I be happy to live there?” but “Who would be happy to live there?”
People may aspire to live in the prime suburbs but most can’t afford it. They buy where they can afford the prices. If it’s solid and located near desirable amenities and jobs nodes, they’ll overlook a lot. 
That’s why the greatest demand goes to the cheaper areas. 
That’s why 234 people bought in Toorak (median $3.1 million) in the past year, but 801 in Frankston ($388,000) and 1,187 in Point Cook ($470,000). Houses sell twice as fast in Frankston as in Toorak and the rental yields are double.
Which is the right way to do it? It depends on the individual, where their preferences lie and how much they can afford to pay.
They’re all the right way – if the individual investor goes about it the right way. The right way includes undertaking genuine research and being prepared to pay for good information and quality advice.
 
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
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Don't be a real estate snob: Terry Ryder

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First home buyers and investors are breathing life into the Perth residential property market, in particular the sub $450,000 price bracket, according to Herron Todd White.
Herron Todd White's October Month in Review said modern units and villas in established areas appear to be attracting the highest level of interest, but at a price attractive when in comparison to sale history.
"Overall, sales transactions are down some 18% on the same time last year while stock on market is some 40% higher, with control having well and truly shifted to buyers, as opposed to sellers," HTW noted.
"We wouldn’t say that any sector is running hot at this point in time, however we note that new or near new properties which are well presented and accurately priced are transacting in shorter time periods than traditional renovator properties. The heat has also well and truly dissipated from the development market, which appears to have peaked early this year, with some suburbs indicating a 10% price adjustment from peak levels, including in Balga, Rivervale and East Cannington.
"The market is largely being driven by first home buyers and investors - hence affordability is the key. While modest compared to 2014 levels, sales of modern 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwellings on lot sizes ranging from 300 to 450 square metres in establishing suburbs are dominating the market. Examples include Piara Waters ($450,000 to $525,000), Lakelands ($320,000 to $370,000) and Aveley ($400,000 to $450,000)."
 
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Price adjustments in Perth's Balga, Rivervale: Herron Todd White

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Sydney held 1,141 auctions for the week ending 11 October with a preliminary clearance rate of 72.8%, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
This time last year 918 auctions were held with a clearance rate of 71.9%.
The Northern Beaches had preliminary clearance rate of 88% and the Eastern Suburbs 85.5%.
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Sydney's Northern Beaches nets clearance rate of 88%: CoreLogic RP Data

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Builder Phil Emanuele and wife Nicky have been breaking residential records in the South Coogee area for a decade of so, and now they hope 14a Mermaid Avenue, Maroubra will likewise set a new record.
They reckon the home sets a high benchmark for design and living, so their pricing through Clint Ballard at Ballard Property is $6.5 million plus. 
Set on its 450 sqm block, there is around 800 sqm internal space at the house with innovative rock coat render that doesn’t require painting. Even the external timber is called Parklex from Spain, a treated veneer that never needs any maintenance. Plenty of copper external features too. 
The couple won the Asia Pacific Property award for their last design at 8 Bloomfield Street, South Coogee which was briefly owned by Paul Roos, the former Swans Coach.
Just this week Maroubra benefited from China’s Golden Week with an oceanfront home on Mermaid Avenue fetching $10.5 million, selling to buyers from Shanghai. The oceanfront property was sold accountant Anthony George to buyers had flown into Sydney during the eight-day Chinese holiday period.
The oceanfront home on Mermaid Avenue did have initial hopes of $15 million earlier this year.
The oceanfront property, covering 6156 square metres, was sold accountant Anthony George to buyers had flown into Sydney during the eight-day Chinese holiday period
The seven bedrom home came with four-car garage, tennis court and pool on Mermaid Avenue.
It last traded in 1999 for $3.02 million when sold by lawyer John Gerathy.
The sale tops the suburb’s previous high of $8 million sit in 2007 for the oceanfront house on Waterside Street owned by Leslie Mosca, director of plastics and resin manufacturer Hpfox when sold by the Yu family.
This article fist appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.
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