When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=358855]

Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357493]

The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357508]

Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Staff Writer

Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

Project management and construction management firm Creative Vision filed the plans for the&nbsp;multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Leading Australian integrated property development group, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>, has released the signature penthouses crowning its landmark AURA by Aqualand precinct at 168 Walker Street in North Sydney, unveiling Il Magnate and La Divina as the largest and most luxurious penthouses in the suburb.

With prices anticipated to commence from $15 million, and each accompanied by a new Porsche Carrera 911 valued at over $500K, the residences mark the culmination of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>’s decade-long journey and the beginning of its final sales chapter. 
&nbsp; 
Their release follows more than $850 million in record-breaking residential sales and the building’s completion and occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358868]

The Richards Stanisich-designed 284 sqm Il Magnate and 224 sqm La Divina penthouses, collectively known as The Icons of AURA, are conceived as grand luxury homes rather than apartments, with expansive proportions, elevated materiality and curated identities that reflect their status as one-off residences.&nbsp;

Il Magnate features a grande master suite, complete with substantial walk-in dressing area and ensuite, three other bedrooms, second ensuite and another bathroom, powder room, open plan kitchen, scullery, substantial dining area and generous living room divided by a feature fireplace, and a multifunction wintergarden, which is ideal for a study and adjoining office breakout space. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the La Divina residence offers the same amenities, sans the powder room, on a slightly smaller alternate floor plan configuration.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358863]

Each occupies half of AURA by Aqualand’s topmost 28th level, comes with four secure car spaces and pairs sweeping Sydney Harbour panoramas with large-scale living spaces, refined detailing and a level of craftsmanship and amenity rarely offered in the North Shore market.&nbsp;

Penthouse residents will also receive Etymon’s ‘Black Key’ private concierge and lifestyle management service, an invitation only offering providing the ultimate in bespoke personalisation, including a range of everyday discrete services, from dinner party management, grocery deliveries, pet feeding or plants watered, dinners, snacks and coffee deliveries, event ticket sourcing, right up to organising travel visas and international airfares. Rarely seen in Australian properties, the service provides residents the benefits of living in a world-class luxury hotel-style home, akin to The Ritz, or the Waldorf Astoria.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=358862]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>’s Director, Kirsten Stanisich, said the studio set out to craft residences that feel profoundly considered, contemporary and deeply connected to their setting.

“From the outset, we approached these penthouses with the sensibility of a grand Parisian residence - generous in scale, elegant in proportion and designed to feel more like a handcrafted home than an apartment," Stanisich said.

“Their elevated position and sweeping harbour outlook informed every decision, creating a rare connection between urban sophistication and natural calm. We shaped each space with expressive materiality, sculptural forms and bespoke detailing that invite touch and interaction.&nbsp;

“The result is a pair of residences defined by volume, light and an inherent softness - refined, flexible and deeply personal. These penthouses are unlike anything else in North Sydney, offering a sanctuary of true luxury framed by some of the city’s most remarkable views.”

For Aqualand’s Head of Sales &amp; Marketing, Alex Adams, the collaboration with Porsche underscores the shared ethos behind the residences.

“Aqualand’s collaboration with Porsche underpins both brand’s sharing an obsession with craftsmanship, design excellence, and enduring value," Adams said.

“Our penthouses are created for those who appreciate the finer details and expect the extraordinary at every touchpoint. Including a Porsche simply extends that experience beyond the residence - it’s a continuation of the lifestyle our buyers already live.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292862]

Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, said the penthouses represent both the pinnacle of AURA by Aqualand and an important design benchmark for the company’s future pipeline.&nbsp;

“These stunning penthouses reflect the purest expression of Aqualand’s design ambition," Lin said.

“The unparalleled design intent makes them not only the glistening crown of AURA by Aqualand, but the crown of North Sydney itself. They’re essentially a thank you gift to a burgeoning community that deserves this level of quality and architectural consideration.&nbsp;

“We’re leveraging the unrivalled standard set here as the foundation for what comes next, including our upcoming Anderson Street, Chatswood; 15 Blue Street, North Sydney and Central Barangaroo projects. Purchasers of these penthouses will essentially be living inside the blueprint of Aqualand’s future.

“These landmark residences demonstrate how far North Sydney has evolved and the strength of demand for highly curated, bespoke luxury homes. They’re more than penthouses, they’re legacy residences.&nbsp;

“With AURA by Aqualand now a thriving new precinct with residents well and truly settled, and our in-house world-class lifestyle amenity activated, Il Magnate and La Divina represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an extraordinary piece of North Sydney’s future.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=30959]

Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach has quietly evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most complete coastal lifestyle precincts, defined not just by proximity to the ocean, but by how residential living, local retail and everyday amenity are stitched together.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask Bokarina</a> now represents the final residential chapter in that transformation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333360]

Over recent years, the Bokarina Beach precinct has taken shape as a walkable, community-oriented neighbourhood, anchored by beachfront access, Lake Kawana to the west, and a growing mix of cafés, specialty retail and public open space.&nbsp;

With Zinc Bokarina already delivered next door by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG), Bask is the last opportunity to buy a brand new apartment within the precinct, effectively rounding out a fully formed coastal village.

GVG has positioned Bask to strengthen that lifestyle framework. Ten ground-floor retail spaces are planned beneath the residences, extending Bokarina Boulevard’s existing activity and reinforcing the area’s everyday convenience, from casual dining and coffee to local services, within a short walk of the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333359]

The residential component comprises 135 apartments across two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, with a clear shift toward larger three- and four-bedroom layouts and penthouses. That mix reflects a maturing buyer profile in Bokarina, where demand is increasingly led by owner-occupiers and active downsizers seeking space, permanence, and connection to place rather than short-term coastal accommodation.

Design and amenity have followed the same logic. Residents will have access to a heated plunge pool, gym, private dining room with a full kitchen, landscaped communal gardens with barbecues and a firepit, and a shared herb and vegetable garden, facilities intended to support daily use rather than resort-style turnover. Pet-friendly features, including a dog wash bay, acknowledge both buyer expectations and the area’s dog-friendly beach, located around 250 metres from the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333366]

“Bokarina has become one of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable beachside communities, and Bask represents the very last chance to buy new in this location,” GVG Director Sam Gardner said.&nbsp;

“Our focus has been to create spacious, functional apartments that meet the needs of locals who want to downsize without compromise, as well as those seeking a full-time coastal retreat.”

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Kawana, Bask apartments have been oriented to capture outlooks toward the water or the Glass House Mountains, reinforcing the project’s connection to its natural surroundings. With parks, beachfront paths, hospitals, retail and public transport already in place, Bask arrives at a point where the broader precinct is no longer emerging, but established.

Construction is expected to complete in Q3 this year, with apartments ready to move into this Spring.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141609]

Bask to complete Bokarina’s Sunshine Coast lifestyle precinct as final apartments are released

Property development giant <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/avid-property-group">AVID Property Group</a> is approaching completion, and sell-out, of its Surry Hills apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rathbone-23-47-flinders-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">The Rathbone</a>.

The Flinders St project has sold well over half of its 32 apartments, which will sit above two retail spaces.

Now hitting the market are the final 14 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, which start from $1.15 million. AVID is targeting a mid-2026 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51208]

AVID General Manager New South Wales Danny Boubli said as more apartments are introduced to increase housing options in inner-city areas, homebuyers are searching for a &nbsp;sense of belonging in addition to location, convenience and value.&nbsp;

“There are very few opportunities for new developments in Surry Hills, and since acquiring the site, we’ve even seen one early purchaser merge two apartments plans together, reflecting the demand for a spacious, premium offering in a prime location,” Boubli said.&nbsp;

“Demand has been strong since we launched to market – we don’t see these final apartments staying on the market for long.”&nbsp;

Architectural firm Studio SC has designed the building which pays homage to the former 1900s Rathbone Terraces that once sat on the 990 sqm island site.

Boubil said the team has made every effort to create "truly liveable apartments", through&nbsp;functional floor plans, security, storage, and the inclusion of quality fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51207]

&nbsp;

Sustainable design has also been implemented throughout the development, with natural light flooding each apartment, ventilation throughout, extensive landscaping and where possible, materials with a high level of recycled content and low volatile organic compound paints have been used. &nbsp;

Apartments range in size from 57 sqm for the one-bedrooms to the large-scale 165 sqm three-beds which are priced at $2,575,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5947]

AVID launches final apartments at The Rathbone, Surry Hills

Ray White

Sydney's Eastern Suburbs is the most expensive pocket of real estate in the whole of the country.

Whether it's harbourside Point Piper, where four of Australia's most expensive house sales have occurred in recent years, or beachside at Bondi or Bronte, demand for prestige houses is always bubbling away.

In 2022 there were 72 sales settle over the $10 million mark, 32 of those over $15 million, just in the Woollahra LGA alone.

Ray White Projects Managing Partner Eddie Mansour believes prestige turnover could be higher however, if there were more high-end new apartment developments being launched.

"You've got a consistently high turnover of prestige house sales every year in Sydney's most affluent areas," Mansour says.

"With limited prestige developments launching, there's very few places for these sellers to go.

"They could be walking away with over $10 plus million in cash, and want to buy a bolthole in Sydney and another home in a Hinterland or Coastal location, which will ultimately end up as a potential retirement dwelling.

"But there's not enough high-end apartment stock to service these buyers, which makes them hold onto their homes longer."

Mansour says these buyers aren't affected by interest rate movements. If something comes to the market, they can buy it within a day without the same bank approvals the majority of Sydney buyers need.

Last year the Ray White Projects team snappily sold out the second stage of the luxury 1788 Double Bay apartment development, Encore by SJD Property (pictured main and below). In the first stage that has been settled only one of the 26 buyers need a bank valuation, the rest settled in cash.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/N4kZ70X8XvJVa-YXuc-e86ry1-RKnovAEwvHhkr0w5UvepuLCiPVUXzW7kHYgemlXi2uQNuGCGcvWX3H8nq46mNA9rSDrOeNmhaAUWTrMNS4KHO-vJ_JyTSzEWjAf7RVjPQcrJh87BylGhSZNZ2gdBVvMrzh8DdHjHYetwoAnyANh4icFTlzv2mW-S1Scw" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />

<img alt="Encore 1788" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c16b813a-480d-4aad-a77d-e1988718f01b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-01-23%20at%203.52.53%20pm.png?VersionId=DYBMaUrEXWC6_ECG8KiyZ8M.75i3MUyZ" /> 
The Encore 1788 development by SJD Property

Prices for the one-bed apartments started from $2 million.

Mansour says the project acted as a good opportunity for those downsizing locally to secure a bolthole.&nbsp;

"At any given time the building, at best, is about 50 percent occupied. It's predominantly used as the owners' Sydney residence."

Mansour noted a trend during the sales process at 1788, a trend which has become more and more prominent in Sydney's east.

"There were a number of buyers in the project amalgamating apartments, buying two apartments to create one of the largest apartments in the block," Mansour said, adding that amalgamations are something the Woollahra Council are starting to limit.

"They want to try and keep entry level units in new apartment developments affordable for a wider range of buyers, rather than those that have just sold their prestige home and can put together two or three smaller apartments in the building."

Amalgamations were prevalent at the new luxury Bondi Beach development Aqualine on Hall Street, albeit located in the Waverley LGA.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LEzA1Ai56jJxEFV6qG7lzg-TXXh263gKJsX4Ps3rEayx16FEcPjB5WPrp6GTQ1z-9oNQMpv7j2nwvPbvjy2TRx3zc6dJQPMAVK4K_BX8uddr9VUyez-EAO9MU1ldqWFEbMUWctml4ozM5Q_bXzX7tvH0wiIzi6KJwRqbbfF2zzwdYyDGRndggs11GjhoVg" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />

<img alt="Aqualine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="137a6c00-6cd3-425e-adfa-4fa929f59344" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202022-12-20%20at%2011.23.36%20am.png?VersionId=zBtHwXN6UzmLGWLgH1QKeJI2JibUxSQ." /> 
The Aqualine, Bondi Beach project designed by Koichi Takada

The latest development on Sydney's beaches by prominent architect Koichi Takada, the plans for Aqualine were for 17 apartments, but a number of amalgamations has taken the total number of apartments down to 12.

Ray White Projects have all but sold out the project, with just the $26 million penthouse remaining. That's expected to launch in the next few months, and will be the largest apartment across a single level in Bondi Beach, sprawling some 450 plus sqm.

Mansour says there's been a lot of interest for the project both locally and offshore for the four-bedroom apartment complete with multiple living/entertaining areas and two balconies.

There are less and less approvals coming through councils for high-end apartment developments, Mansour notes, across both Sydney's East and North Shore.

"There were five or six developments we were expected to work on at the back end of this year, however with delays, they're all now pushed out to the start of 2023," Mansour says

Ray White Projects Managing Partner Eddie Mansour believes prestige turnover could be higher however, if there were more high-end new apartment developments being launched

Why demand will always outstrip supply in Sydney's luxury off the plan apartment market: Five minutes with Ray White Projects Managing Partner Eddie Mansour

The Gold Coast apartment market has been one of, if not the most hotly&nbsp;contested markets across Australia in the off th​e plan apartment space.

Sell-outs are occurring at rapid pace, even before projects hit the open market.

Urban sat down with Andr​ew Bell, the managing director at Ray Wh​ite Surfers Paradise, to discuss the market in 2021, and what he seems for the immediate future.

JC: How have you viewed the performance of the GC apartment market (established and or off th​e plan) in 2021, and what are the strongest positive and negative factors that will influence outcomes in 2022 and 2023?

AB: The Gold Coast apartment market has been outstanding throughout 2021. &nbsp;

A unprecedented demand by owner occupiers was timely met by many property owners of apartments who either could not get returns on their investments due to closed borders and lockdowns, who chose to sell their AirBNB or rental properties rather than hold the properties, or were under some financial pressure back home which also caused them to sell their properties.

This resulted in a decline of investment held ownership of many Gold Coast properties and the significant rise in new owner occupiers or people simply buying apartments for personal use on a regular basis in a year. &nbsp;

In years gone by whenever there was an economic downturn in Australia, many investors would put their properties on the market to sell and this caused an oversupply of apartments for sale causing prices to fall proportionally more than other markets in Australia. &nbsp;

With a higher degree of owner occupiers now in apartments, we are now on level pegging&nbsp;with other markets in Australia and it will contribute to the old boom and bust scenario on the Gold Coast. &nbsp;

The unit markets are also the beneficiary of significant downsizing of people out of their houses whether here locally on the Gold Coast or indeed migrator&#39;s from interstate who chose to move into large apartments for the next phase of their life. &nbsp;This has seen significant growth and price increase for one&nbsp;per floor apartments or large 3 bedroom apartments. &nbsp;With an undersupply of such apartments on the Coast, there has been a significant amount of new development work to cater for this market. 
&nbsp; 
With the Gold Coast market now the number one go-to market for migrator&#39;s, many are opting for apartment lifestyle so the influence over 2022/23 will be the continuous development of new apartment buildings to meet this demand. &nbsp;New architecture, new buildings and new technical capabilities in newer buildings has also seen a flurry of new generation buildings which are simply stunning and will add to the appeal of the Coast. &nbsp;With international borders opening and the ease of return of expats and significant spike of enquiries from overseas investors, a strong platform has been established to meet those demands.

JC: What trend (short term or long term) has prompted your greatest enthusiasm for the GC apartment market, and what is the issue of most concern to you and or your clients? 
&nbsp; 
AB: What has prompted our greatest enthusiasm is the incredible volume of people looki​ng to buy apa​rtments and now an increasing supply of new brilliantly designed buildings to meet that demand. &nbsp;It was certainly frustrating over the past year to simply not have sufficient properties to offer the buyer demand but now it&#39;s so satisfying to be able to help people with a greater degree of choice with the building that they chose to be in. &nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The only issue of concern for me, is that there is a reality that some of the proposed buildings may ultimately not ever get built. &nbsp;Building costs have risen sharply and as a result some buildings where perhaps developers have paid too much for the land or where they are poorly funded developments, may find that they can&#39;t proceed to construction and that would prove frustrating for buyers who had made commitments to o​ff the plan sales. &nbsp;

It would be important for all buyers to make sure they are buying in buildings where developers have a proven track record and where clear undertakings can be provided that the buildings have either started construction or are starting construction shortly.

The Event, now in its third decade, will be held Sunday the 23rd of January at RACV Royal Pines, Beno​wa.

Andrew Bell is predicting the biggest auction on record due to the market conditions on the Gold Coast when the Event is held in January 2022

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Gold Coast now "level pegging" with other Australian property markets: Five minutes with Ray White Surfers Paradise Managing Director Andrew Bell

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Andrew McCulloch, the Ray White NSW CEO, is putting his Bowral home to weekend auction.

It has been popular with Sydney buyers seeking a treechange. 

The auction guide is $2 million to $2.2 million.

“During the first open we welcomed 14 groups through the home,” Ray White Bowral agent Gene Fairbanks said. 

<img alt="" height="1361" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ray_white_bowral_2.jpg" width="2000">

"The beautifully done renovations, greenery and comfortable living it represented, ticks all the boxes for Sydney buyers,” he said of the home at 7 Alfreda Street, Bowral.

It is a 10 minute walk from the town.

Its outdoor living facilities on its 4500 sqm holding comes complete with brick pizza oven and built-in BBQ area.

Several cameras guard the main entrance gates.

<img alt="" height="476" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ray_white_bowral_3.jpg" width="700">

There have been 4,468 page views on the realestate.com.au website which has 98 Bowral properties for sale.

The median property prices over the last year sits at $1,100,000.

Based on five years of sales, Bowral has seen a compound growth rate of 8 percent for houses and 3.2 percent for units.

Houses in Bowral rent out for $590 PW with an annual rental yield of 2.8 percent while its units rent for $400 PW with a rental yield of 3 percent.

Between December 12 and December 31, Ray White NSW has 545 properties scheduled to go under the hammer, with 245 of these this Saturday.   
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Andrew McCulloch, the Ray White NSW CEO, is putting his Bowral home to weekend auction

jchancellor

Tree change Bowral offering from Ray White NSW chief Andrew McCulloch

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Ray White Waterloo business owners Eric Wei and Edwin Wang have just expanded and launched their second location in Eastwood in north-west Sydney, teaming up with local powerhouse Wen Huang as the third principal.
The team are set to take the Eastwood region to the next level, just like he has done with their Waterloo office over the past 18 months.
The team also have further expansion plans on the horizon, with the third office in Norwest set to open later this year.
“Opening our second and third office locations was inspired by the rapid growth in the area and our own local knowledge of the region,” Mr Wang said.
“Eastwood is full of opportunity, with lots of development already underway, so we are really keen to bring our real estate services to the local community.”
Some 18 months ago, the team of property and finance professionals joined forces to make their real estate dream a reality, in Sydney’s diverse inner-city suburb of Waterloo. 
Mr Wei and Mr Wang, both with finance experience in Shanghai and Sydney, shared a common goal of opening a Ray White office. 
“We always knew  Ray White was going to be the best fit for us, once we finally opened our own office in Waterloo,” Mr Wang said.
“We wanted to pair our knowledge of the asian buyer and vendor market, with the strongest local brand in real estate, and the corporate team have been incredibly helpful in guiding us through running a business.”
Since they opened their first office, the team built up their sales and property management business. 
The pair have worked together on and off for many years, mainly in off the plan project sales for big names in the Sydney development sector. They also have particularly strong experience and interest in the Eastwood region and its surroundings. 
“The Ryde and Macquarie areas have gone through the roof with real estate and development in the past couple of years, and the Eastwood region is performing just as well,” Mr Wei said.
Eastwood is 17km north-west of the Sydney CBD and is known for its cultural diversity and attraction of the Chinese community, with about 800 apartments due for completion over the next couple of months.
“There is a really interesting mix of house and commercial activity in the Eastwood area, with lots of shopping and services at everyone’s doorstep,” Mr Wang said.
“I have lived just nearby in Rhodes for the past six years, and Eastwood has always been the go to place for grocery shopping, and beautiful homely restaurants and eateries.” 
Alongside Eric Wei, Edwin Wang and Wen Huang, a team of 11 experienced property management and sales professionals will be joining them.
“We believe our own cultural background and resources put us in a great position to service the area well.”
“We already have a good feel for the area, and are looking forward to thriving under such a strong family name in the business” Mr Wang said.
Over the next 12 months, the main goal for the team is to increase market share, build a strong rent roll of over 200 properties and establish their new office as the go-to for all real estate requirements in Eastwood and its surrounds. 
Ray White New South Wales CEO Andrew McCulloch welcomed the expanded team to the network.
“The team at our new Eastwood office are a natural fit to take the real estate market in this region even further,” Mr McCulloch said.
“We’re delighted to have seen their incredible progress with their first office in Waterloo, and  look forward to supporting them as they continue to grow now in the Eastwood region as well.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Ray White NSW welcomes Eastwood expansion

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The Victorian Government has based its roadmap to reopening and the precise nature of ongoing restrictions upon Melbourne University's Dynamic Policy Model.
While Ray White supports this scientific work, it quite explicitly does not provide any advice pertaining to the inclusion or exclusion of specific activities and certainly not of private property inspections.
Ray White Group Managing Director Dan White said the Victorian government's decision to restrict private inspections must be explained, and identify how it has balanced the danger posed by that activity, accounting for the ability to mitigate risk when performing it with the social and economic impact of restricting it.
The leading group supports that private property inspections can be conducted in a highly controlled setting - in a pre-scheduled activity where only a small group of people interact with each other, while still being able to properly observe social distancing and enact effective transmission mitigation (ie sanitisation of surfaces and the use of personal protective equipment).
This is a safe setting - it does not entail any significant risk of transmission - and it does not constitute the sort of free movement that the cited modeling quantifies the effects of.
Given this, the Victorian model should further consider the huge economic and social impact of ongoing restrictions of property inspections.
Mr White said the group’s customers are demanding to know where does the government’s modelling show that private inspections are dangerous to the community? “And if so, what elements of our protocols are unsafe?”
“And additionally, did they rank the importance of the reasons for allowable people movement from 28 September? If they did, how could they think that visits to bottle shops, hardware shops and personal trainers are more important than the private inspections needed to facilitate the sale and lease of real estate?”
“Shelter is one of the most basic human needs and real estate is an essential service. It also has major financial implications for thousands of Victorian families.”
We have heard of so many of our customers experiencing hardship because of this decision.
Yet another distressed seller was 46-year-old Berwick mum Natalie Brennan. When her husband Gerard had his second stroke earlier this year, she knew they’d need to sell their home.
Mr Brenann, 49, lost his job as a forklift driver for a major pharmaceutical company in July.
The family of four just listed their house for sale last week with experienced agent Anne Haynes of Ray White Berwick.
“We are struggling financially with our mortgage repayments so we need to sell. I’ve had to take all the photos myself and our agent fixed them up and uploaded them online but it’s simply not fair that they won’t allow anyone to have a private inspection,” Ms Brennan said.
“We are a family of four with our children Alana, 14, and Aidan, 12 both doing home schooling. I work part-time at a pharmaceutical warehouse from 2:30pm to 10pm seven days a week. We have a lot of bills with my husband’s medical expenses and I am the only one working.
“But Dan Andrews’ rules don’t make any sense. We cannot even get a signboard put up out the front of our house.
“We are in a very difficult financial position and to ease the tension and stress as we need to sell. My message to Dan Andrews is ‘you are being totally unfair’.
“If I can go to Coles with 250 people then why can’t I have a few people through my house at one on one private inspections?
“We would leave the house and our agent could have inspections with staggered times and all the sanitiser under the sun. It could be done safely.”
Another distressed commercial landlord is retiree Colin Wise, aged in his mid-70s. He and his wife own a investment property in Glen Waverley. Since a tenancy with ANZ Bank ended in May, Mr Wise has been unable to lease the property again due to Stage 4 restrictions.
Mr Wise’s son, Daniel, said the prime asset would ordinarily be tenanted by now given it’s opposite The Glen Shopping Centre on one of the most prominent corner positions.
“This is a family asset and my retired father relies on the property for income. The Andrews Government with their restrictions have curtailed our ability to lease this asset out,” Mr Daniel Wise said.
“We actually had an offer agreed in principle on the doorstep of the first round of restrictions but the uncertainty within the government meant that deal fell over.
“The property is highly sought-after but we’re unable to take people through, even privately, so these restrictions are preventing the income for a retired couple.
“We’re not alone. Our story is just one of many thousands across the state, and people are genuinely struggling out there. It feels like we’ve been completely forgotten and now being completely ignored.
“We must take positive steps to create avenues for commerce to commence. We simply can’t leave Victoria and Melbourne in a state of lockdown. We live with risk in all we do and we have to allow people to get on with their lives.
“All we ask is for a balanced approach and an even playing field. I know for a fact contact tracing is in place when all private inspections are booked and masks and hand sanitizers are compulsory. How can that be any more of a risk than a stranger delivering you UberEats to your door?
“We need an empirically based common sense approach to bring business back in an orderly way as quickly as possible, otherwise thousands of others like my father, will continue to suffer through no fault of their own.”
Dan White is the Ray White Group Managing Director
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Why are private inspections deemed so dangerous? Dan White

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A freestanding commercial investment with development upside has sold for $8,500,000 under the hammer at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=S0FkYXRBL0pXU1R3ak9mT011UE1ZUkJvb2ZNQnUxdERqcHp0UUpKT1cvUVFxbmdxZFhzTGJQSEpGTHVVWW95QnJVNmoyc0RySkhYc1cxd053aG1UOWZhcXFwcUpzaFBKam9MK0grZlBvd2ljZi9COW5LaGZ1K3RVSWw2TmQxdndNWDYyUTU0cGgrREh5cURWRU1JTVlMdmlXdmhNeG90QjNzd01mc09iNjJSY0VYVm5KaGVhZVhiVWgwenBaTXNY&amp;rh=ff0065c7450d709ea5552ae9a04bacc4ff82fe1a" target="_blank">2-4 Palmer Street</a> in Parramatta.   The property, that came with a 685sqm building area and 600sqm land area, was sold at auction on a 2.9 per cent yield.   The asset was marketed and sold by Ray White agents Samuel Hadgelias and Jeff Moxham, in conjunction with Anthony Khoury and Jon Race of Khoury Partners. “Freehold commercial opportunities with upside are a rare commodity in the Parramatta CBD and that’s why this asset attracted seven registered bidders,” Mr Moxham said.
“The sale being in excess of the reserve price is further evidence the commercial market remains strong despite the negative speculation regarding Australian property markets in the wake of rising cases of COVID-19,” Mr Hadgelias said.    “The low yield is consistent with other freehold buildings that have traded nearby and evidences the continued strong demand for 'value add' assets with future development potential,” Mr Khoury said.
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Parramatta commercial investment sells for $8.5 million at auction

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Andrew Bell’s Ray White Surfers Paradise Group scored another win at this year’s annual Ray White Queensland awards.
The awards, which saw 1,200 Ray White members online, was held over Zoom this year presented by chairman Brian White, Emily Sim, Tim Snell and Dan White.
For the 28th year in a row, Bell’s group was named the top selling office in Queensland.
There had been a strong challenge from the New Farm office.
The Surfers Paradise CEO said he was “surprised” to receive the award after a challenging year that shook the real estate industry.
“I have never been more surprised by this award than I was this year. I was quite shocked because we had the most challenging year for our office on many fronts. But what the award reminds me of is how blessed we are to have the amazing team and the culture that we have created in our business," Bell said. 
Bell’s office also won the community contribution award for their muscular dystrophy fundraiser, a cause that he’s supported for over 25 years.
The Surfers Paradise office was the most successful Queensland office by way of revenue in the residential division, recognising the group as the best property management business of the year.
“There was immense love shown last night from our team. The team felt rewarded for digging deep and doing what we do best every single day”, Bell said.
Ray White Queensland conducted 41 per cent (up from 33 per cent the year before) of all the auctions held in Queensland - including conducting over 66 per cent of all auctions in the Brisbane city area. 
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Andrew Bell's Ray White Surfers Paradise Group top selling office in Queensland for 28th year in a row

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The last two remaining lots at Wynnum’s Port View Estate have sold for $2.2 million through Ray White Industrial Milton. 
The estate was sold to a developer looking to build a corporate unit development at 11 and 21 Industry Place.   The final two deals completed the balance of the estate as Ray White Industrial Milton successfully sold and settled all 11 available lots for $11,200,000.   “There’s been incredibly strong interest in this estate ever since we started marketing the 11 opportunities,” said Ray White Industrial Milton agent Stephen Ferguson.   “Land opportunities are now extremely hard to come by in the TradeCoast and there are only a few sites left available.
“Industry Place in Brisbane’s coastal suburb has seen strong sales action with owner-occupiers attracted to the seaside location that offers direct access to the CBD.”   
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Wyunnum's Port View Estate sold for $11.2 million

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Ray White Rural SA have secured a record price despite the COVID-19 and its restrictions.
Daniel Schell, joint principal of Ray White Rural SA together with his father and business partner Geoff Schell, have just signed a huge property sale to finalise the estate of Keith Honan for in excess of $9 million. 
The pair then conducted an extensive online clearing sale. 
The rural property which comprised 16,5813ha (4097 acres) sold over five lots to four different buyers in South Australia.
It was signed up as an auction sale just prior to the COVID restrictions and then changed to an EOI. 
“We had a huge response to the property during the six week marketing campaign with more than 80 inquiries, 30 inspections and 20+ EOIs received which resulted in record sale prices,” Mr Schell said.
<div>Not long after the Schells ran their first online clearing sale for the Honan Estate with fantastic success across 179 lots. Some  480 bidders registered for the online auction, some from as far away as Spain who bid on  these dusty ‘vintage’ bikes which ended up selling to a local buyer for $85.</div>
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 “We had more than 300 people online during the virtual auction, anyone could tune in to listen or participate in the auction by placing bids right up until the last second. There were reserves on only three main lots but these had been well exceeded prior to the live auction starting," Mr Schell said.
“The online auction was an overwhelming success providing far greater access to buyers to be involved in the sale. We opened bidding up over three days and without having to travel to the property if they were happy not to inspect the items,” Mr Schell said.
“We even had a person bidding from Spain on Lot 120 which was two vintage bicycles. A number of the key items were sold to interstate buyers. The wooden cart sold for $13,500.
“We think the success of the clearing sale has also strongly contributed to there being no other clearing sales over the past four months and therefore no competition.
“We can see the future for clearing sales as a combination of both on-site and online. Many people still like to attend a sale to see and touch the items and listen to an engine start.  
“But holding an online sale reached a wider audience and provided the buyers an opportunity to review and place bids over a couple of days. 
“We stayed in the office until the wee hours of the morning sending invoices to all successful purchasers with payment instructions.”
Collection day was two days after the action and everyone picked up and paid for their lots.
The Schells worked closely with a local business, Farm Clearing Sales, to provide an alternative option to conduct a clearing sale during the COVID19 restrictions.
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Mid-north SA clearing sale attracts widespread interest

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Two houses in one 654 sqm corner block in Strathfield South has changed hands via a mortgagee sale.
Ray White estate agents Peter Tsekenis and Elia Economou held the listing.
It sold for $1.8 million on July 7, 2020. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-strathfield+south-133706610" target="_blank">2 William Street </a>site has two brick homes in a cul-de-sac with an access gate between the two, one in neat original condition, the other thoroughly renovated. 
Both offer three bedrooms, two bathrooms, open-plan living and a large entertainment deck. 
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