Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

Property News

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The average holiday rental property is rented for an average weekly rate of $1,143 for 23 weeks a year, according to a new report from a holiday rental website.
The <a href="https://www.stayz.com.au/" target="_blank">Stayz</a> report says the average traveller takes two to three domestic holidays a year for an average of five nights at a time, with 53% of holiday makers traveling with their family.
According to Stayz marketing director David Dunstan, travelers may have used caravan parks or motels in the past, but are increasingly turning to holiday homes for accommodation.
“This is reaping rewards for property managers or private owners," said Dunstan.
"The average holiday home is netting over $1,000 a week with an average occupancy rate of 23 weeks per year. That’s not a bad return on investment!” 
But according to Dunstan, fewer than half of holiday rental owners generate profits after maintenance and mortgage expenses. However, he does predict further growth for the sector. 
Travelers tend to plan well in advance, a habit rental property owners should take into consideration, commented Dunstan.
“Stayz sees enquiries for summer holidays spike in July and August so property owners and managers need to make sure their holiday rentals are listed as early as six months in advance of peak season to make sure they capitalise on that.
“Word-of-mouth recommendations and personal experience are also important to building trust and we know that once people have a good experience, they are likely to return to the same property again in the future – sometimes multiple times.” 
Dunstan said that some locations were more popular than others on the website, with a strong preference for beachside holidays.
“We have a reputation for being sun-lovers and our bookings bear that out,” he said.  
“Beach breaks are by far still the most popular holiday option for Australian travellers with floods of visitors descending on coastal towns like Surfers Paradise, Port Douglas, Terrigal, Lorne and Fremantle every year to enjoy the sun, sand and surf.” 
The Stayz website sees about 14 million visitors each year.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Average holiday home occupied for 23 weeks a year: Stayz

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A five bedroom, four bathroom house at Yowie Bay topped RP Data's list of sales this week, selling through McGrath Estate Agents for $3,425,000. 
Only one Queensland home made it on this week's 10 most expensive sales list, according to RP Data.
The Noosa Springs home sold for $2.85 million, coming in at fourth place. All the other properties on the list were from New South Wales or Victoria.
The 10 most expensive sales of this week:
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-yowie+bay-116811735" target="_blank">220c Attunga Road, Yowie Bay, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/1%20copy.jpg" alt=""> The contemporary waterfront home, set on a 3,329 square metre block, features a one bedroom retreat with a sound studio, living spaces that spill out onto an infinity pool and balconies with views over Yowie Bay and an entertaining terrace. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-albert+park-117203651" target="_blank">61 Merton Street, Albert Park, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/2.jpg" alt=""> An Albert Park terrace house was sold for $3,235,000 through Cayzer Real Estate last week. The five bedroom, two bathroom Victorian terrace has undergone a renovation, with a three room fully fitted studio, two car garage, pool and sauna at the rear. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-cabarita-117429755" target="_blank">36 Dorking Road, Cabarita, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/3.jpg" alt=""> Raine and Horne Concord sold this four bedroom, four bathroom house for $2.85 million. Set on a 1,100 square metre block, the main residence has multiple formal and informal open plan living areas with timber beech floors. The bedrooms include a master suite with 180 degree water views, a walk in robe and en suite with double shower. Behind the main house, there is an undercover entertaining terrace, a spa, sauna and steamroom, a saltwater pool and a fully fitted outdoor kitchen and bar. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-noosa+springs-115499511" target="_blank">517/61 Noosa Springs Drive, Noosa Springs, Qld</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/nossa-spring-aug-5-one.jpg" alt=""> A house in Noosa Springs sold for $2.85 million through ONE Noosa Sunshine Coast. The only Queensland property to make the top 10 list this week, the lakefront house has four bedrooms and four bathrooms, with a multiple living areas including a main living room with six metre high ceilings. The north facing home on a 1,239 square metre plot offers views over the Noosa Springs Championship Golf Course and includes a substantial outdoor entertaining area, with a pool bordered by palm trees. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.andrewblake.com.au/1P0847" target="_blank">9 Hansford Parade, Bilgola Plateau, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/5.jpg" alt=""> Sold through Andrew Blake Real Estate Avalon, this Bilgola Plateau offering secured $2.7 million for the vendors. The colonial style home has four bedrooms and four bathrooms, including a master suite with its own private deck and an outdoor shower. Sitting on a 910 square metre parcel, the home has waterfront views, with an pool that sits in a hardwood deck which spans the property's entire width. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-wheelers+hill-117311915" target="_blank">23 Winterton Drive, Wheelers Hill, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/6.jpg" alt=""> Located a half hour's drive from the Melbourne CBD, this six bedroom house was sold for $2.66 million through Harcourts Judd White. The three level Wheelers Hill home has a five bedroom garage in its basement, a games room, a gym and storage. On the ground floor, there is a guest bedroom and multiple living areas which open onto an elevated rear garden and paved entertaining area. Upstairs, there are four more bedrooms and a study or retreat. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-balwyn+north-117517559" target="_blank">51 Sutton Street, Balwyn North, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/7.jpg" alt=""> This five bedroom, four bathroom house was sold for $2.43 million through Hocking Stuart Glen Iris. The listing information states that the home is "enhanced with a sense of Feng Shui", and notes the home's location in the Balwyn High school zone. The house has both formal and casual living areas, and city views from the front balcony. There is also a garden studio with separate entry on the 820 square metre plot. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-pymble-117477487" target="_blank">70 Pymble Avenue, Pymble, NSW</a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/8.jpg" alt=""> A restored art deco home in Pymble sold for $2.3 million through Chadwick Real Estate Turramurra. The five bedroom, two bathroom double brick home includes a foyer with a cathedral window and limestone washed floors. Outside, there is a solar heated pool and outdoor entertaining area. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-wahroonga-117468291" target="_blank">123 Boundary Road, Wahroonga, NSW </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/9.jpg" alt=""> This north shore home was sold by Keith Soames Real Estate Wahroonga for $2,238,000. The full brick residence has five double bedrooms with built in robes, with a master bedroom which features an en suite with a sunken spa. The north facing home is set on a 1,486 square metre block, with the listing information noting that the property is near to Knox Grammar, Loreto, Abbotsleigh Girls, Barker College and The Bush School. Outside, there is a north/south facing tennis court and a swimming pool. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hawthorn+east-117421719" target="_blank">1a Wiseman Street, Hawthorn East, Vic </a> <img src="/images/2014/08/05/10.jpg" alt=""> A four bedroom, three bathroom house in Melbourne's Hawthorn East sold for $2,156,000 through Jellis Craig Hawthorn. Widford Mews was built in 1883 as the stables and coach house for a neighbouring mansion. Now, it exists as a four bedroom, three bathroom home, with north facing gardens on a 708 square metre block. It is within the Auburn Primary School district and close to many of Melbourne's private schools.</li>
</ol>
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Yowie Bay waterfront tops the 10 most expensive sales of the week: RP Data

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Divergent trends are apparent in the housing market of late, with investors continuing to show momentum, while credit to owner-occupiers has consolidated since the end of last year.
Andrew Hanlan, the Westpac senior economist was commenting after investment property loan growth accelerated sharply last month, at the fastest year-on-year growth since the first quarter of 2008.
<img src="/images/2014/08/01/wp-aug-1-one.gif" alt="">
The surge in investment loan lending to pre-GFC levels saw loans to investors in June jump 0.9%, according to Reserve Bank of Australia data published Thursday.
Annual investment loan growth has now hit 8.7%.
<img src="/images/2014/08/01/wp-aug-1-two.gif" alt="">
Loans to households – including owner-occupiers – rose by a more modest 0.6%, taking the annual gain to 6.4%.
"Notably, low and falling interest rates in 2013 triggered a sharp lift in new lending for housing," Andrew Hanlan noted.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Investor property loan growth back to pre-GFC levels: RBA

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I like to take a helicopter view; a wider lens often shows the truer picture.
I find myself taking this stance more often – actually saying something like, “let’s take a step back for a second and take in the broader view” – the older I get.
And the Monocle Magazine has done just that.
Monocle has just issued its eighth annual Quality of Life Survey of the top 25 cities in the world and three Australian cities have made the cut.
Firstly, Monocle is well worth a read. The July/August issue is their 75th. Go to <a href="https://www.monocle.com/" target="_blank">www.monocle.com</a> to find out more. Their app is also worth downloading – fantastic podcasts about urban issues, among other things.
Ranking
According to Monocle the best cities in the world fall in this order:
<ol>
<li>Copenhagen</li>
<li>Tokyo</li>
<li>Melbourne</li>
<li>Stockholm</li>
<li>Helsinki</li>
<li>Vienna</li>
<li>Zurich</li>
<li>Munich</li>
<li>Kyoto</li>
<li>Fukuoka</li>
<li>Sydney</li>
<li>Auckland</li>
<li>Hong Kong</li>
<li>Berlin</li>
<li>Vancouver</li>
<li>Singapore</li>
<li>Madrid</li>
<li>Paris</li>
<li>Amsterdam</li>
<li>Hamburg</li>
<li>Barcelona</li>
<li>Lisbon</li>
<li>Portland, Oregon</li>
<li>Oslo</li>
<li>Brisbane</li>
</ol>
The Monocle survey seeks to measure the quality of cities in terms of the intangibles that light up their communities, as well as the infrastructure that supports them.
Important criteria include safety/crime; climate, medical care, public transport, tolerance, urban design, architecture, government policy, business conditions, and access to nature.
What they think about us
Melbourne
This year it is ranked third; last year second.  Melbourne has proved, says Monocle, that coffee and cricket aren’t the only things it does well.  Public transport upgrades, low crime, plus a compelling new weekend paper help to explain why the city has retained its top three ranking.
Melbourne’s cultural credentials are second to none – and the success of ‘Melbourne Now” – the largest exhibition in the history of the National Gallery of Victoria, has cemented the city as an art capital.
And it is home to a number of brands that have made Melbourne their first port of call in Australia.  As Monocle concludes: "Sydney may have the Harbour Bridge, but it still doesn’t have a Muji."
Sydney  
This year it ranked 11th; last year ninth.  Let’s face it, for many, Sydney is Australia.  It is the world’s most popular destination for international students.  Monocle calls it Australia’s face to the world – pretty, and architecturally outstanding, with breakthroughs like the North Bondi Surf Life Saving Club and One Central Park.
Downfall – public transport servicing Sydney’s suburbs.  Upside around the harbour – the $2 billion in planned infrastructure spending and ambitious vertical garden strategy that has already yielded 96,000 square metres of greenery.  
Brisbane 
This year it ranked 25th; last year, not ranked.  Here’s what Monocle has to say about the Sunshine City:
This year, Australia’s third-largest city steps out from behind the shadows of Melbourne and Sydney and into the spotlight, playing host to the G20 Leaders Summit.
Delegates will find a sun-drenched destination with a flourishing start-up scene; fine subtropical climate; and leafy parks which boast 906 council-operated barbeques.
The good stuff:  low cost of living compared to other Australian cities; a spacious inner city, which leads to an ease of doing business; an encouraging business environment; interesting cafes and thriving restaurants.
Downfall – Brisbane’s violent binge-drinking culture and the strict policing that comes with it.
What would Monocle fix?
<ul>
<li>
Melbourne: the state premier’s promise of a rail link to the airport should come sooner rather than later.
</li>
<li>
Sydney: pick up the pace on the long-awaited second airport.
</li>
<li>
Brisbane: create a livelier city centre similar to Melbourne, as it is pretty unexciting outside of business hours.
</li>
</ul>
Tolerance – around half of those Brisbane residents recently surveyed admitted to being anti-Muslim; while a quarter had anti-Aboriginal concerns.  Yet, the city is hugely multicultural, with a third Brisbane residents having been born overseas.
Public transport – an efficient network, but expensive.
IsBrisbane a libertarian paradise or stickler for rules?  Bit of a stickler, reports Monocle.
So what do others think?
Auspoll in Australia has also developed a subjective measure of city liveability for its MY City survey conducted for the Property Council of Australia last year.
A sample of residents from 11 different cities are surveyed on 17 attributes about liveability in their cities and their responses are combined into an overall liveability score.
My City Liveability Index
The latest My City study results are charted below.
<a href="https://matusikmissive.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PCA-liveability-index.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-7511" src="https://matusikmissive.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/PCA-liveability-index.jpg" alt="PCA liveability index"></a>
Adelaide has consistently been rated the most liveable city, closely followed by Canberra.
Both Hobart and Newcastle ranked higher in 2012 than 2011 (third and fourth place), while Perth and Melbourne fell slightly in the rankings.  Sydney and Darwin were ranked as the least liveable cities.
Brisbane falls somewhere in the middle of the pack.
The most important of the 17 attributes that make up the liveability index were:
<ul>
<li>safety – a safe place for people and their property</li>
<li>cost of living – affordable for a good standard of living</li>
<li>health – good health care services</li>
<li>employment – good employment and economic opportunities</li>
<li>quality of the environment – clean city, well maintained and unpolluted 
</li>
</ul>
What do we think?
Well firstly, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  What looks crappy to some is fantastic to others.
I have just been to several of the cities that the My City survey suggests are Australia’s most liveable and well, let me say….. I don’t get it.
But we agree with the My City results in that safety; cost of living; health; employment and quality of the environment are the most important aspects behind an area’s liveability.  And I dare say, a property market’s overall performance.
Too much commentary, and we are very guilty of this too, is about economic things; new infrastructure and the hard elements like transport systems.  It is very often the soft stuff that matters the most.
Also, it interesting to see how others have pigeon-holed us.
When it comes to Monocle and Brisbane, we don’t disagree – and particularly in view of the need to attract residents to the plethora of inner city apartment towers slated for Brisbane.
While there is a trend both in Australia and overseas to accept less private dwelling space in order live in a better location or place, the higher the density, the better the local amenity needs to be.
Or, as I often say – “density needs to be offset”.
The concept of trading “space for place” is incumbent upon an area being attractive and with a high degree of amenity and lifestyle offerings.
It is what Brisbane needs more of, and it’s a concept upon which our decision-makers and planners should focus.
Visit Michael's <a href="https://www.matusik.com.au/" target="_blank">website</a>, read <a href="https://www.matusikmissive.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">his blog</a>, follow him on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ThinkMatusik?fref=ts" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.twitter.com/michaelmatusik" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Twitter</a>, or connect via <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmatusik" rel="nofollow">LinkedIn</a>.
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michaelmatusik-49YzLvdmNv

Australia has three of the world's "most liveable" cities: What does this really say about us?

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It’s commonly said that property buyers, particularly those in Gen Y, are not keen to compromise on their lifestyle.
However, if you wanted to get your foot into the property market what would you be willing to sacrifice?
The recently released realestate.com.au Housing Affordability Sentiment Index (HASI) conducted by independent research company Research Ink, asked broadly what home buyers would be willing to sacrifice in order to afford a property.
They found that 65% would be willing to sacrifice a pool, consistent with previous years.
Meanwhile, 44% would not be willing to buy/build further than 10 kilometres from their selected ideal locality. Fascinatingly, investors were more likely to consider purchasing 50 kilometres or farther from their ideal investment location.
One in two of Gen Y respondents were willing to increase their debt level to achieve their desired standard of living.
Over a quarter of current/previous property owners surveyed received financial assistance for their first property, with the majority of the help coming from their parents.
{module What features of your ideal home would you be willing to sacrifice?}
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

What would you be willing to sacrifice to afford your next home?

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For those who think houses will always outperform units, this week’s top 10 most expensive sales might offer some food for thought.
It was a three bedroom unit that took out the top sale in the country this week, clearing the second most expensive home, a four bedroom house, by almost $4 million.
These are the 10 biggest sales of the week, from RP Data.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/2/3_loftus_road_darling_point_nsw_2027/16165997">2/3 Loftus Road, Darling Point, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/1.jpg" alt=""> This three bedroom unit sold for $6.4 million through 1st City Hasemer and Caldwell.Eyes and LJ Hooker Double Bay. The full floor, 326 square metre, residence in The Bower was designed by JPRA and Collins Vanguard.
The luxury apartment has an en suite for each bedroom, a family room that extends to a wrap around terrace and 21 metre frontage to the harbour. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4_roslyn_street_brighton_vic_3186/10020852">4 Roslyn Street, Brighton, VIC</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/brighton-july-29-one.jpg" alt=""> This four bedroom house in the Melbourne bayside suburb of Brighton sold for $2.475 at auction through Nick Johnstone Real Estate Brighton. The contemporary two storey home has three bathrooms and a powder room and three living spaces. Outside, there is a solar heated pool and spa. The vendors purchased the house for $1.58 million just last year.
</li>
<li>
 <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/23_beaufort_street_croydon_park_nsw_2133/2031134" style="line-height: 1.3em;">23 Beaufort Street, Croydon Park, NSW, 2133</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/3.jpg" alt=""> 
In Croydon, a five bedroom house was sold for $2.19 million by Elders Inner West Enfield. The full brick home has a formal living and dining area with a curved glass wall, a casual meals and family room and a lift servicing all three levels of the house. It sits on a 614 square metre corner plot.
The vendors purchased the home for $1,275,000 less than a year ago. 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/28_sevenoaks_street_balwyn_vic_3103/9568809">28 Sevenoaks Street, Balwyn, VIC</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/29/4.jpg" alt="">
Another five-bedroom house, Balwyn offering secured $2.16 million for the vendor through Bekdon Richardson and Hawthorn. In a prime school district, the house sits on a 797 square metre block. The house has multiple living spaces, including a formal living and dining room and open plan family areas, with a sandstone wrap around terrace and a glass enclosed pool and spa with its own private bathroom. The house was purchased by the vendors in April 2006 for $1.73 million.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/18_tutus_street_balgowlah_heights_nsw_2093/1231539">18 Tutus Street, Balgowlah Heights, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/5.jpg" alt="">
Sold on July 23 by Richardson &amp; Wrench Seaforth, this three bedroom house secured for $2.1 million. Adjoining a bush reserve, the house is set on a 701 square metre “gently undulating” plot with a North Easterly aspect. The house is a few minutes’ walk from Forty Baskets Beach. The house has been held by the same vendors for 23 years – they purchased it for just $262,500 in 1991.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/38a_crescent_road_mona_vale_nsw_2103/4381359">38A Crescent Road, Mona Vale, NSW, 2103</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/6.jpg" alt="">
This five-bedroom house was sold at auction on July 24 by L J Hooker Avalon for $2,095,000. Overlooking Pittwater, the house has interconnected living spaces around a central outdoor terrace and a pool. Despite making the top 10 list, the vendors made a loss on the sale – they bought 38A Crescent Road for $2.2 million in 2007.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/1_francis_street_naremburn_nsw_2065/4728487">1 Francis Street, Naremburn, NSW, 2065</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/29/7.jpg" alt="">
McGrath Real Estate Agents sold this four bedroom, three bathroom house for $2,053,000. A few minutes away from St Leonards Railway Station, the single level home sits on a 727 square metre block. It has floorboards through the living areas which transition to a north-east facing deck. The vendors purchased the house five years ago, for $1.73 million.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/116_fifth_avenue_windsor_qld_4030/8251326">116 Fifth Avenue, Windsor, QLD</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/29/8.jpg" alt="">
The only Queensland home to make the top 10 list this week, this house secured $2,005,000 when auctioned by Ray White Alderly. The four bedroom Queenslander has high cathedral ceilings and polished floorboards throughout. The property also features a salt water pool and three 3,000 litre water tanks on its 1,045 square metre plot. It was bought by the sellers for $1.14 million in November 2005.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/1/3_drummoyne_avenue_drummoyne_nsw_2047/2124490">1/3 Drummoyne Avenue, Drummoyne, NSW</a>
<img src="/images/2014/07/29/9.jpg" alt="">
The second unit on this week’s list, this three bedroom Drummoyne offering sold for $2 million through Patterson Rizzo Biviano. The renovated townhouse has panoramic water views from its large entertaining terrace. The complex comes waterfront gardens, a pool and pontoon. The vendors purchased the townhouse for $1,515,000 in 2007.
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/17_castle_street_randwick_nsw_2031/5744260">17 Castle Street, Randwick, NSW</a>
 <img src="/images/2014/07/29/10.jpg" alt="">
This two storey four bedroom house sold through Phillips Pantzer Donnelley for $2 million. Close to Centennial and Queens Park, the modern home has a northerly aspect, a swimming pool and secure parking. All the bedrooms are on a single level, freeing up the other floor for living spaces. The home also has a saltwater plunge pool.
The sellers made a loss on this house. It was bought for $2.15 million in 2009.
</li>
</ol>
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Darling Point unit takes top place in the 10 most expensive sales of the week: RP Data 

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Developers need to challenge resistance to their planning proposals and encourage community collaboration with projects to address the housing shortage in Australia, the head of a major land development company has said.
Planning processes had moved from being administrative, objective and evidence-based to a situation where agreements were brokered between stakeholders, Investa Land chief executive Cameron Holt told delegates at the 2014 HIA Building Better Cities Summit in Sydney last week.
“The development industry and housing industry needs to push back to objective and evidence-based research,” Holt said.
He cited ANZ and Australian Bureau of Statistics data that suggested there was a looming shortage of around 350,000 dwellings a year in Australia.
In some regions the community accepted there was a need for more housing but in other areas there was strong opposition to extra development, which led to missed opportunities to ease the supply shortage.
Holt said housing developers had a tendency to give in to stakeholder pressure and make concessions with their projects because of the need to quickly deploy capital.
“The cost of capital is burning a hole in their pockets,” he said.
Rather than a combative or deal-brokering approach, greater collaboration between developers, local councils and the community was needed to deliver better development outcomes, he said.
“We can work together and work collaboratively to address the common goal of addressing the housing shortage in Australia.”
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zfielding-GvX3Uq9KTa

Development company chief calls for greater community collaboration to meet housing shortfall

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A short drive out of the city are a number of apartment blocks, just a few years old, that Property Observer recently visited.
The apartment blocks are investor dominated, rumours say by mainly offshore buyers and were built to attract high-paying investor clients – some around the $800,000 to $1 million plus mark.
Despite these price tags, however, the buildings are crumbling.<a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/%20" target="_blank"> Just Think Real Estate</a>’s Edwin Almeida was shocked with the state the properties were in when he received a management from an offshore landlord.
Waterproofing issues, render coming away, broken lights and potentially compromised electrical work were just some of the issues he noticed in his first visit to the apartment block.
“Most of these property investors have never attended the property nor seen it, other than on glossy brochures and via the internet photos,” said Almeida.
“Sydney has made headlines as being the gateway into making the booming property market, a sure way to double your money and be in a safe political haven at that.”
When Property Observer visited, the issues were numerous and hugely visible. Readers are asked to remember that this apartment block is about four years old, and that achievable market rent on individual two-bedroom apartments was initially around $690 to $720 per week, despite some agencies asking for much less than this. Now, they're sitting around $620 plus per week.
Almeida explains that it was initially bought by an investor for $550,000 off the plan five years ago. Similar apartments in the area are now selling for $840,000 off the plan. Initially, the apartment was appraised at $720,000, however offers are not even being made at $680,000 due to the strata report detailing the issues in the apartment block. Almeida expects this will see the re-sale value drop to $650,000, which will affect comparables for new apartments in the area.
The one we visited originally cost $550,000 off the plan but this was five years ago. Like apartments are now selling for $840,000 off the plan.
In the bathroom of one apartment in the complex, the ceiling had previously collapsed (see photos below).
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-one.jpg" alt="">
It's worth noting that while the tenant complained about this, the previous property manager did not fix the problem until the tenant stopped paying rent and the management was passed on.
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-two.jpg" alt="">
Now in the bathroom, with the ceiling fixed for sale, the floor is starting to show signs of damage (see below).
This is a sign of compromised waterproofing, where the water pushes through from the shower towards the door - and brings sediment along with it. The metal rim that has been moved here, when you try to move it yourself, is solid - and quite incredible that leaking could have caused it to move away from the tiles.
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-three.jpg" alt="">
Internally, cracks can also be seen appearing.
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-four.jpg" alt="">
Outside the building, the issues were also obvious. Cracks and marks in the render had begun to appear - signs of movement and water leakage from the walls inside - and in some cases the render was coming right off the wall.
Heading to the basement car park, somewhere investors are urged to look at whenever considering buying an apartment block, the dampness is overwhelming. There are puddles, and there hasn't been rain for a couple of days. In fact, it's clear that it has been wet for a long time - the cement is coming away to the touch (see below) and the dipping is causing signs of rust.
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-nine.jpg" alt="">
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Almeida said that there are hidden liaisons between the real estate agencies and the developers that are a recipe for these ‘million dollar ghettos’.
To explain this, he draws a diagram before taking Property Observer to the apartment block.
In the centre, he draws a circle, which he calls the “developer”. He then draws a line out from this circle to the selling agent, to whom a commission is paid. Another line is drawn to the property management team, who offer the development with a 12 to 18 month rental guarantee – often insuring the investor will stay with them. He then draws a third line out to the strata management team.
Then he circles these three. They’re all from the one real estate agency, and this, says Almeida, is the ‘dangerous liaison’ making it possible.
“All such parties more than likely are a part of the same office,” he explains.
“Coupled with this, is the office relationship with the developers themselves. These are relationships that have created an underlying weakness in what I believe to be the catalyst that will inevitably crack the dam, and usher in the property bubble burst,” he says.
The selling
In his opinion is that the resales and valuations when the property purchases are funded by the local banks will see those who bought the new properties outright lose huge amounts of money.
He warns that for investors who do not visit the property post-purchase, who, in fact, buy sight unseen, are at danger in these situations.
He also warns that Home Owners Warranty Insurance is not in place when the complex is four levels and higher, and that he has still heard selling agents incorrectly tell buyers that their apartment will have their insurance for seven years.
The property management
After purchase, he says that the same agency then rents the apartments out. He warns that in some situations the properties are overcrowded and the tenants are not correctly screened – something he seems regularly when he takes over the management.
“Periodic inspections are next to non-existent,” he explains, saying that tenants have confirmed to him that the property manager has not seen the apartment since they moved in.
Bad management, and a lack of notice of any defects in the units – which would normally be fixed by the developer within 30 days if the investor claims – affect the maintenance of the property. The investor, after this time, will then have to bear the cost.
The strata management
Often, again, the strata management team is also part of the same real estate agency.
Checks for defects in common areas within timeframes required are not undertaken so cannot be claimed to the developer. This is then a bill footed by the Owners Corporation, again the investors.
But why do some agencies allow this to happen? It comes back to the developer.
The developer
Almeida notes that the developer gives high sales commissions to real estate agents to sell at high prices. These commissions could be in the range of 8% to 10% when sold off the plan.
When rectification works notices are not provided to the developer by the aforementioned professionals on behalf of the investor in the timeframes required, then they can make a good case that the damage is wear and tear.
A developer may also be able to liquidate their Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) company.
Where is this happening in Sydney?
The locations identified are largely where there is a high concentration of highrise development. From the balcony of the apartment visited by Property Observer, there were others being built visible through cranes on the skyline.
<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/2014/07/28/cracks-july-28-twelve.jpg" alt="">
Areas identified by Almeida as having these sorts of properties include:
<ul>
<li>Mascot 
</li>
<li>Hurstville 
</li>
<li>Chatswood 
</li>
<li>Strathfield 
</li>
<li>Zetland 
</li>
<li>Homebush 
</li>
<li>Parramatta</li>
</ul>
Source: Just Think Real Estate
Not every development in these areas is going to fit the profile, and there may be good investment opportunities. However, Almeida specifically warns about apartment blocks where the vast majority are offshore investors.
How can you avoid buying into one of these apartment blocks?
Five top tips to help you avoid these situations:
<ol>
<li>Do a background search of development/building company before purchasing 
</li>
<li>Find out what Strata Management company takes care of the developments previously built by developer/builder 
</li>
<li>Walk through other developments that the developer/builder has constructed and check for wear and tear as well as construction integrity 
</li>
<li>Avoid buildings that are 4 stories and above as they do not have HOWI (in NSW) 
</li>
<li>Avoid where and when possible, developments that are primarily rendered; they may be colourful and look good at first, but maintenance is costly.</li>
</ol>
{qtube vid:=XXZBkThEdkQ}
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What are Sydney’s “million dollar ghettos” and where are they?

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A new report from OnTheHouse has released new predictions data presenting the top 10 suburbs nationwide with opportunities for residential buyers.
Unsurprisingly, New South Wales dominated the top 10 list, while Victoria didn't scrape in a single mention.
Based on rental and capital returns, outer city regions were found to provide the best investment opportunities, explained OnTheHouse consulting analyst John Edwards.
“Buying in a regional area might not be for everyone but with strong predicted growth and high rental yields, it’s certainly an option to consider. With more expensive areas, such as Sydney, outer city regions can be much more affordable – pair that with strong growth and it could be a good fit for investors wanting to get good rental returns and capital growth over time," he said.
To come up with the list they looked at five year capital growth predictions, industry surroundings, confidence ratings and employment opportunities.
“Investors should be looking for locations that have good employment opportunities, education options, are well connected to transport and have planned developments in the area that will attract the population. The latest Best Rent Report highlights 58 areas around Australia that meet this criteria, each offering returns of better than 10% per annum," he said.
He also urged investors to look at data in conjunction with local knowledge.
“Our research draws on industry and environmental surroundings and employment opportunities, which will influence property prices. These areas are the suburbs we think will perform well. However, it’s crucial that buyers do their own personal research and build on this statistical information.”
Turn over page for the top 10 list.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<a href="/images/2014/07/28/suburbs-chart-july-28-one.gif" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2014/07/28/suburbs-chart-july-28-one.gif" alt=""></a>
Source: Onthehouse.com.au. Click to open in new window.
In total, 58 suburbs made the <a href="https://www.residex.com.au/best-rent-report" target="_blank">Best Rent Report</a>.
Queensland’s Wynnum was one of those which also made the list as one that was flying under the radar but with growth fundamentals.
Wynnum was named one of Australia’s best more quiet achievers, with capital growth in the past 12 months of 3.13%, and forecasts that over the next five years this will look more like 7.56% per annum.
Harcourts Green Living in Wynnum principal David Green said that demand has been coming in from interstate investors and families who want to rent.
“Wynnum is a strong growth market for investors looking to expand their property portfolio, located just 16 kilometres to the Brisbane CBD, 20 minutes to the domestic and international airport and less than an hour to the surf beaches of the Gold Coast,” he said.
“Our property managers who have worked in the Bayside for decades are experiencing a high demand for rental properties from young families moving to the area, as well as investors from Sydney and Melbourne.”
The area is well-serviced by a train line running through its centre, including Wynnum Station, Wynnum North Station and Wynnum Central Station.
Within the boundaries on the area include parks, a police station, a school, a golf club, shops and the area’s own RSL club.
It appears property pundits and individual investors have been discussing the area for years – with forums including threads about buying in the suburb for many years. Peter Koulizos has previously suggested Wynnum for growth, and Australian Property Investor magazine tipped the area last year.
According to SQM Research, the vacancy rate for the area is 1.8%.
Wynnum West previously had a mention in RP Data's Buy vs Rent report in December 2012 as <a href="/expert-insights/investing/brisbane-cbd-among-494-suburbs-where-you-could-be-better-off-buying-then-renting-but-very-few-inner-city-options-rp-data">one of the few places in Brisbane where it was, in fact, better to buy</a> when looking at overall financial outcomes.
{module Would you invest in Wynnum?}
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Are these really Australia’s 10 best rental suburbs?

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In just 10 days, a six storey $22 million apartment building has been built in Perth, bringing cost savings of up to 12% and 50% less building waste through Perth’s first modular housing project.
Bringing 77 homes to the market, Housing Minister Bill Marmion said that it was also 30% more energy efficient, and expressed the potential for it to reduce the cost of housing.
“The one-and two-bedroom apartments - each weighing 22 tonnes and measuring 16 metres by 4.5 metres - are factory fabricated, meaning the apartment complex can go up in just 10 days,” Marmion said.
“The whole project will take 12 months to complete, from sod-turning to market.  Already there has been keen buyer interest in these apartments and I firmly believe this project gives us a glimpse into the future of quality, affordable housing.”
Per day, 15 apartments can be constructed. These apartments are from 50 to 77 square metres, with purchase prices from $335,000.
This is now the Stella Village project near Cockburn Central station as part of the Affordable Housing Strategy 2010-2020: Opening Doors to Affordable Housing project.
It appears this may be rolled out for higher density and urban infill projects.
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