<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/collingwood-vic-3066">Collingwood</a>’s northern edge continues to sharpen its reputation as one of Melbourne’s most compelling cultural precincts, where established creative institutions, leading hospitality, and independent fashion converge within a tightly held inner-city neighbourhood.

Set within this evolving pocket, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/derby-street-by-milieu-collingwood-4-derby-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Derby Street by Milieu</a> draws on a location that balances proximity to some of the inner north’s most influential destinations with the quieter, tree-lined character that defines the streets edging East Melbourne. Positioned just moments from both Smith and Gertrude Streets, the address sits on the periphery of Collingwood’s cultural core, offering immediate access without the intensity of its busiest frontages.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145576 project_image_fid=355945]

Gertrude Street, in particular, anchors the area’s identity as a destination for Melbourne’s leading food, art and fashion. Within a short walk, venues such as Marion, Cutler &amp; Co, IDES and the Builders Arms Hotel define a tightly curated dining scene with enduring citywide appeal, complemented by a strong fashion and retail presence including Havn, Le Labo and a selection of independent boutiques.

Nearby, institutions such as the Australian Print Workshop and Collingwood Yards sustain a constant rhythm of exhibitions, performances and creative output, embedding art and culture into the everyday fabric of the neighbourhood.

Smith Street, running parallel, extends this offering with a broader mix of hospitality and nightlife, maintaining its status as one of Melbourne’s most active inner-urban strips.

Beyond these high-energy streets, the immediate surrounds shift in tone. Derby Street and its neighbouring blocks are defined by low-rise heritage terraces, mature trees and a settled residential character. Fitzroy Gardens and Carlton Gardens are both within walking distance, alongside the Royal Exhibition Building and Melbourne Museum, bringing together green space and cultural landmarks within minutes of home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145576 project_image_fid=355985]

Connectivity remains a key advantage. The CBD sits within easy reach, accessible by tram along Smith Street in around 20 minutes, while also remaining close enough to walk or cycle, supported by the inner north’s established bike network.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a>’s long-standing connection to Collingwood underpins the project’s approach. With a portfolio that includes multiple nearby developments across Bedford, Peel and Napier Streets, the developer brings a sustained understanding of the area’s character and evolution. Derby Street continues this trajectory as a collaboration with award-winning Melbourne-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studio-bright">Studio Bright</a>, marking the practice’s first multi-residential project in the inner north and reflecting a shared focus on design integrity and contextual response.&nbsp;

Balancing connection to the neighbourhood with a sense of seclusion and refuge, Derby Street by Milieu embodies a level of care and craft typically reserved for single residential projects. Comprising 22 residences across six storeys, with two to four-bedroom configurations priced from $1.15 million, the project is currently under construction with completion expected in late 2027.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145576]

Joel Robinson

Derby Street by Milieu, at the top end of Collingwood

A rare new apartment development in the Blue Mountains is the latest in a string of State Significant Development Applications submitted through the New South Wales Government's Housing Delivery Authority.

A total of 270 apartments are being proposed for the 1.16-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/blue-mountains-alpine-retreat-142-150-narrow-neck-road-katoomba-nsw-2780">142–150 Narrow Neck Road in Katoomba</a>, a parcel of land adjoining the former Katoomba Golf Course. The site was acquired for $3.85 million in 2021 by private developer VDM Prime.

The apartments, comprising a mix of serviced apartments, affordable housing, and traditional build-to-sell product, will be spread across eight low-rise buildings, along with a separate building for a new restaurant, arranged around a green spine that leads to a central park.

<img alt="Katoomba" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee9a2072-f465-44f1-9076-80c9c8ecca02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-22%20at%209.20.21%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4bT0vQ7j_syl65wcrJmHGm3m5pTvwrY_" />

The Urban Design Report by Atlas Urban says the vision is to create a "contemporary mountain precinct that is responsive to its escarpment landscape, heritage character, and community context."

"The development responds to the current housing supply and affordability challenges identified under the NSW Housing Delivery Authority (HDA), providing a balanced mix of standard, affordable, and short-stay accommodation," the report noted.

"By introducing a variety of dwelling types and tenures, the proposal supports intergenerational living, local workforce retention, and greater housing choice within an area constrained by topography, heritage, and environmental protections."

Of the 270 units proposed, 52 will be serviced apartments. The remainder will comprise 54 studios, 121 one-bedroom units, 39 two-bedroom apartments, and four three- to four-bedroom residences.

<img alt="Katoomba" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f704508d-1bdf-4170-955d-0256652402a7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-22%20at%209.56.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TzarHMO4gTOsblCqsbJQkvMqWj9nu2Au" />

The Design Report, by VDM Prime and appointed architect Antoniades Architects, noted that the design seeks to "provide a built form outcome that is highly considered, respectful and contextually fitting, whilst contributing positively to an evolving precinct."

"The site offers three frontages and the opportunity to provide a meaningful interface with the public domain environment. the design has a sympathetic response to streetscape and the green open space that surrounds the site."

The report states that the buildings are broken up to establish an appropriate bulk and scale, emphasised through height and setback strategies and defined through articulation that supports the transition of precinct granularity. It also notes that a central communal open space is established through the site to enhance the social dynamic and access to amenity, including natural ventilation and light to the apartments. The east and west frontages receive solar access during the morning and afternoon, whilst maximising views to the green open space.

The site adjoins the recently completed Yarrabee Katoomba development, comprising 24 duplexes that were completed last year and sold through McGrath Projects.

The relatively new Housing Delivery Authority pathway established by the NSW Government allows developers to submit State Significant Development Applications through a fast-tracked state process, effectively reducing reliance on local council approval pathways and aiming to accelerate housing delivery across New South Wales.

First look: Nearly 300 apartments pitched on former Katoomba golf course site

In Melbourne’s established inner east, the qualities that define a traditional house, width, height, and access to open ground, are increasingly difficult to replicate in new residential developments. Larger landholdings are scarce, and with them, the ability to create apartments that extend beyond compact, internalised layouts.&nbsp;

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/kew-vic-3101">Kew</a>, where the residential fabric is shaped by generous setbacks and mature tree canopies, that tension is especially visible.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ricdanic-investments-pty-ltd">Ricdanic</a>&nbsp;is bringing forward a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings at 9–11 Wimba Avenue, Kew. Comprising six homes at No.9 and seven at No.11, the project sits on a quiet, tree-lined street just off Cotham Road.&nbsp;

Each apartment has been planned with a level of independence more commonly associated with standalone dwellings, balancing privacy with the efficiencies of apartment living.

Architect Chris Idle, who has been practising for over two decades, says projects like this don’t come along often.

“There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs,” he explains. “To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The internal planning begins with width. Living areas extend beyond five metres, allowing furniture, circulation, and glazing to sit comfortably within the same zone without compression. Ceiling heights shift from three metres through to five metres in select areas, changing the sense of scale as you move through the apartment. These proportions are paired with double-glazed windows and fully electric systems, balancing volume with performance, supported by a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.&nbsp;

From the main living space, the apartments open directly outward. Large sliding doors connect to private gardens averaging 125 square metres, with some residences also incorporating balconies of around 60 square metres. Rather than acting as secondary outdoor zones, these areas sit flush with the internal floor level, extending the usable footprint of the home and allowing for multiple modes of use, whether for quiet daily routines or larger gatherings.&nbsp;

The landscape, led by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>, reinforces this relationship. Across the site, 23 different plant species have been introduced, including a mix of native and established varieties, arranged to maintain privacy while preserving sightlines and light access. Gardens are not treated as decorative buffers but as functional extensions of the apartments, shaped to accommodate movement, seating, and informal use over time.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366265]

Architecturally, the project draws from Kew’s historic residential language. Handmade bricks by Krause define the exterior, grounding the buildings within the material palette of the suburb, while interior finishes, stone, timber flooring, and restrained detailing, continue this approach internally. Architect Chris Idle describes the intent as long-term rather than stylistic: “We wanted it to feel timeless.”&nbsp;

This emphasis on durability extends to how the buildings are accessed and secured. Entry is managed through keyless systems, with a double-gated basement incorporating number plate recognition for vehicle access. Each residence is paired with a private lock-up garage accommodating two to three cars, alongside storage, while all entry points are monitored continuously. These measures sit alongside EV readiness and fully electric infrastructure, aligning the project’s operational systems with its long-term design outlook.&nbsp;

The setting remains central to how the development is experienced. Located within walking distance of Kew Junction and close to established schools including Carey Grammar and Xavier College, the address benefits from existing infrastructure while maintaining a residential quietness that is increasingly difficult to find at this scale.&nbsp;

Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/sinjen">Sinjen</a>, with a 10-year structural guarantee, with completion targeted for mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

Inside Wimba Ave, Kew’s garden-scale residences designed for space and permanence

High-end Sydney developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured approval for one of its latest Mosman projects, one of the first developments approved by Mosman Council under the NSW Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy.

The approval represents an important step in delivering well-considered housing next to established village locations on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, in line with the intent of the Low and Mid-Rise zoning framework. 
&nbsp; 
There are currently 13 other sites lodged within Mosman Council under the policy, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-29-heydon-street-mosman-nsw-2088">Heydon Street</a> among the first to receive development consent. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Founder and Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the project reflects a considered and appropriate response to its planning context. 
&nbsp; 
“This approval demonstrates how carefully considered, design-led development can align with the objectives of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy," Brown said.

"The scheme has been designed to respond sensitively to its village setting, with a built form, scale and level of amenity appropriate to its local context. The determination reflects a balanced and considered planning outcome, with Council recognising the capacity for this site to accommodate additional housing within a well-located and established precinct.”

<img alt="Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="92811ce3-02e8-44fc-996e-c61ae039bd3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Heydon%20Street%20Aerial.jpg?VersionId=ZHJVuWQT64QcdrFJx963pFWFzTX7lI2I" />

The Heydon Street approval followed extensive consultation with Mosman Council, with Abadeen working closely with Council throughout the assessment process.

The approved scheme comprises 27 residences, with only four per floor, creating a low-density living environment. The building will include four half-floor penthouses designed to capture views across Middle Harbour, Sydney Harbour and the surrounding district.&nbsp;

The project is expected to appeal to downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking house-like proportions, privacy and local convenience. There will be north-facing Middle Harbour views from the second level upward. It is also just a flat 100-metre walk to Bridgepoint Shopping Centre, which will appeal to owner-occupiers and in particular downsizers.

Two-bedroom residences are expected to be priced from $1.99 million when sales launch later this year. 
&nbsp; 
Joe Tack, CEO at Abadeen, said the outcome reflects both the quality of the site and the broader need for well-located housing. 
&nbsp; 
“This is a highly considered site within a highly established local setting, offering elevated views and strong connectivity. The project has been designed to respond to that context, delivering a scale and quality of housing aligned with both the planning framework and evolving market demand.” 
&nbsp; 
“This approval is particularly significant in the context of Mosman, where new housing supply has historically been limited. While it represents the first approval of this scale in Mosman to be achieved in over 50 years, it is importantly located within a well-established residential location, in close proximity to the established commercial amenity of Spit Road and Mosman Village. It reflects strong confidence in Abadeen’s approach to design, delivery and community integration, while contributing to the delivery of much-needed housing in a highly constrained market.”

Abadeen has an established track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with recent completions including KOYO in Crows Nest and ENSO in Neutral Bay.

In Mosman, Abadeen recently completed The Hampden, with Mosman Residences on the corner of Spit Road and Clifford Street scheduled for completion later this year. Construction has also commenced at Burran Residences, comprising three full-floor ultra-premium homes positioned just 50 metres from Balmoral Beach, with residences expected to achieve prices in excess of $20 million. Two further projects are also progressing through planning within the local government area.

Abadeen secures first approval under low and mid-rise housing policy for Heydon Street, Mosman apartment development

Apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> is one of the latest entrants to the Gold Coast development market, with its debut project set to be one of the most boutique offerings on Chevron Island in recent years.

Martello has unveiled <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aere-chevron-island-18-20-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Aere Chevron Island</a>, a collection of 33 large-scale two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments across an 18-storey building on Mawarra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367517]

The developer has placed a strong emphasis on wellness, briefing architecture firm Raunik Design to embed this philosophy into the project. It is a direction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> plans to carry through its future developments along the coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a> has positioned Aere as a continuation of its human-centric development approach, with a focus extending beyond amenity to the fundamentals of layout, natural light, and spatial planning. Promax Construction has already been appointed to deliver the project, with construction expected to commence in the coming months as part of the group’s broader expansion into South East Queensland.

Rising above the low-rise fabric of Chevron Island, Aere’s design emphasises generous internal proportions and uninterrupted outlooks, with residences oriented to capture coastal, skyline, and waterway views. Interiors prioritise open-plan living, with large-format glazing and carefully considered transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367508]

The upper levels are dedicated to larger-format homes, including four-bedroom residences designed as half-floor offerings. These layouts prioritise separation between living and sleeping zones, along with increased privacy and storage, features more commonly associated with detached housing than traditional apartment product.

Aere’s private resident amenity spaces centre on wellness. A rooftop level will incorporate a heated swimming pool, sauna and spa, alongside a residents’ lounge, dining areas and barbecue spaces, while additional shared facilities throughout the building include a gym and yoga area.

The inclusion of both social and quieter retreat spaces reflects a broader shift in higher-end apartment design on the Gold Coast, where developers are increasingly responding to owner-occupier demand for buildings that support long-term living rather than short-stay use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367814]

Aere is positioned within walking distance of Chevron Island’s village centre along Thomas Drive, as well as the HOTA cultural precinct via the Green Bridge, connecting residents to parklands, galleries, and event spaces.

For <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/martello">Martello™</a>, Aere represents the first in a series of planned Gold Coast developments, with the group also exploring opportunities in other coastal precincts, including Kirra and Palm Beach.

The move north comes as sustained population growth and infrastructure investment continue to reshape South East Queensland, with developers increasingly targeting boutique, design-led projects in established lifestyle pockets. Aere’s relatively small scale and emphasis on spatial quality position it within this emerging segment of the market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143932]

Martello™ enters Gold Coast market with wellness-led Chevron Island development Aere

Real Estate Agency

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Auditors have indicated concerns about the ongoing viability of The Agency.
Its concerns - which revealed a payment plan with the ATO - was contained within its audited annual financial report which was posted to shareholders today.
The group incurred a net loss after tax of $7.83 million during the year ending June 30 2019, which was reported last month in then unaudited accounts.
"These events or conditions, along with other matters indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the group's ability to continue as a going concern," independent auditor Mark Delaurentis at Bentleys said.
The auditors suggested for The Agency to continue as a going concern was dependent on:
- The successful completion of the non-renounceable entitlement offer
- The fully executed Amendment Deed Loan with Macquarie Bank being completed
- The company continuing to meet its current payment plans in place with the ATO or the renegotiation of payment plans with the ATO
- Raising additional finance through its leverage on its rent roll assets
- Continued support from creditors and suppliers
- Profitable operations
Since the June 30 sign off there has been progress in the ticking off of some of the issues including The Agency securing an <a href="/news/the-agency-secures-further-six-months-funding-from-macquarie-bank">ongoing financial commitment from Macquarie</a> for the next six months.
Funds from the entitlement offer also happened last month, with the shareholders agreeing to <a href="/news/the-agency-shareholders-asked-to-issue-shares-to-pay-50-000-pr-fees">pay fees owed to its consultants as share scrip</a>, including its external PR firm.
Last week there were rumours The Agency were in talks with rival agents in was The Agency <a href="/news/the-agency-rebuts-rumours-of-imminent-merger-with-mcgrath">described as approaches for a merger.</a>
The annual results posted last month <a href="/news/the-agency-reports-bigger-loss-and-announces-2-8-million-cost-cutting">had been unaudited</a>. The Bentley's audit was dated September 30, for the financial year ending June 30.
The directors told shareholders today they consider The Agency remains "a going concern."
There was no early morning trading in the company which has an $8.36 million market capitalisation.
The Agency was launched in January 2017 with the aim of disrupting the real estate industry. 
 
 
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Uncertainty cast over The Agency viability 

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The McGrath estate agency was trading on Friday at a record low 19.5 cents, and again this morning at that price.
The ASX listed agency was at 29 cents in early June. It floated at $2.10 in late 2015.
The latest sharemarket decline came just days after the group celebrated its 2019 awards night.
On the night, its founder John McGrath noted outstanding results from not just the award winners but throughout the group.
<div class="stream-item stream-item-in-post stream-item-inline-post alignright">
<div class="adplugg-tag" data-adplugg-zone="mrec_b_in_article" data-adplugg-regid="2" data-adplugg-processed="true">“We have principals and offices growing at lightning speed in what has been a tough market," he said.</div>
</div>
“We have the most elite sales force on the planet, in my opinion."
"Any other company in the world would like to have these people on their roster but we have all five of them," he said when the top sellers countdown reached the group's top five.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/29/McGrath%20Awards%20Night%202019%20-%20John%20McGrath.JPG" alt="">
For the third consecutive time, the top agent was foundation franchisee and principal of McGrath Terrigal, Mat Steinwede, beating some 700 agents in the company’s 97 NSW, ACT, Queensland and Victorian offices.
The next best seller was the Crows Nest Sydney agent Peter Chauncy.
The next three were Betty Ockerlander at McGrath Epping; Keiran Bresnahan at Hurstville and Alex Jordan at the Paddington, Queensland office, which was awarded the prize of the group's fastest growing office.
Only five of the top 20 were women and only two of the top 10, with Tracey Dixon at Hunters Hill and Ockerlander.
In 2016 the top 10 were: 
1. Mat Steinwede – McGrath Terrigal 2. Betty Ockerlander – McGrath Epping 3. Peter Chauncy – McGrath Crows Nest 4. Michael Coombs – McGrath Mosman 5. Nigel Mukhi – McGrath Neutral Bay 6. Brent Courtney – McGrath Lane Cove 7. Tracey Dixon – McGrath Hunters Hill 8. Dennis Vertzayias – McGrath Edgecliff 9. David Howe – McGrath Northbridge 10. Jaimie Woodcock – McGrath Terrigal.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/29/McGrath%20Awards%20Night%202019.JPG" alt="">
In June Kon Stathopoulos, the head of sales, departed McGrath Estate Agents having been with the group since 2014 when he came from a non-real estate background.
Earlier this month McGrath's biggest institutional backer, Perpetual further reduced its shareholding of the ASX listed agency.
It share sales took its shareholding down to 6.4 percent, less than half its initial exposure.
It had been initially sitting on 14 percent when accumulating the shares after its 2015 float.
It was in the 2015 float at $2.10 that Perpetual emerged as a surprise major backer of the McGrath Estate Agents’ initial public offering.
McGrath began public life as a company worth $282 million, which has dipped, along with property prices and fewer star agents, to $32 million.
At $2.10 per share, it equated to 8.8 times forecast earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation for fiscal 2016.
McGrath shares slumped to $1.72 on its second day of trade in late 2015.
The biggest shareholder remains John McGrath, followed by Aqualand and Tony Denny.
With the company now capitalised at $32 million, McGrath's personal stake is worth around $8 million given his near quarter holding.
The float allowed him to pocket $37 million, some of which he quickly spent buying a few further shares in the agency.
Last March the Central Coast-based property developer, Tony Denny amassed a 5 percent shareholding as a "passive long-term investment" paying around 40¢. Denny <a href="/news/for-3-million-central-coast-entrepreneur-tony-denny-buys-5-percent-stake-in-mcgrath">spent $3 million on 7.2 million shares</a> in March last year which took his holding to five percent. 
Aqualand took its stake in <a href="/news/mcgrath-secure-10-7-million-strategic-investment-from-aqualand">June last year</a>.
They paid 42.5 cents a share for their 25,189,880 shares which totalled $10.7 million.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

McGrath Estate Agents trading at all time low of 19.5 cents

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A director of LJ Hooker Coochiemudlo Island has pleaded guilty in the Brisbane Magistrates Court after the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) brought charges for breaching the Agents Financial Administration Act 2014.
Clifford Ralph Prentis, director of Wayjac Pty Ltd, trading as LJ Hooker Coochiemudlo Island, based in the southern region of Moreton Bay near Brisbane, was fined $2,000 for failing to lodge an audit report within the time limit.
The company was fined $10,000.
No conviction was recorded.
The court heard Prentis carried on business as a real estate agent and operated two trust accounts during the audit period of 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2017.
Under the Act, Prentis was required to have had the trust accounts audited, and the audit reports lodged with the OFT, by 30 April 2018.
The OFT had not received the audit reports.
In sentencing, Magistrate Tina Previtera noted the early guilty pleas and also took into consideration Prentis’ health.
She also noted the agency had previously entered into an undertaking with the OFT to submit audit reports on time, but had failed to do so.
Fair Trading Acting Executive Director Craig Turner said the case served as a reminder to real estate agents of their obligations when it came to the operation of trust accounts.
“Agents who fail to comply with their trust account obligations will incur penalties,” Turner said.
“Agents are able to get assistance from legal or financial professionals or the OFT if they have questions regarding trust accounts.”
Trust account obligations, including a guide for real estate salespeople, are available on <a href="http://www.qld.gov.au/fairtrading" target="_blank">the OFT website</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

LJ Hooker Coochiemudlo Island fails to meet audit obligations: Office of Fair Trading

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Raine &amp; Horne has lost the $1 billion sales agent Dib Chidiac, with the Sydney agent going independent.
He began his career with Raine &amp; Horne Concord and over 10 years rose through the ranks to become the national network’s No 1 agent for four consecutive years (2015-2018).
He says starting his own independent agency in 2019 was "a natural next step."
<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/2019/2/6/Dib%20Chidiac.jpg" alt="">
With $1 billion in local sales over 10 years, Dib Chidiac (pictured above) is known within the City of Canada Bay community as a market leader.
In 2018, he was recognised as one of Australia’s top performing agents with a No 28 ranking in the Real Estate Business (REB) Top 100 Agents.
He has averaged 100 home sales annually from apartments to prestige waterfront estates throughout the City of Canada Bay and the broader Inner West.
Several generations of the Chidiac family live locally and Dib is proud to carry on this tradition with his wife, Stephanie.
His suburb records include Cabarita at $6.05 million and Mortlake at $3.150 million.
His auction sales records include the highest residential price achieved under the hammer for the 2137/2138 postcode when $5.413 million was paid in Cabarita.
Dib’s personal career sales total $1 billion.
His auctioneer is Clarence White, a three time winner of the REINSW Award for Excellence in Auctioneering (2014, 2017, 2018).
White spent four years calling auctions for McGrath Estate Agents and a further two years for Bresic Whitney before establishing his own independent business in 2018. 
Paul Pettenon is the proprietor of Raine &amp; Horne Concord, having owned Raine &amp; Horne Concord since 1995 when it was a "small four man suburban office to now having 17 full time staff."
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Dib Chidiac quits Raine & Horne Concord to go independent 

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Kay &amp; Burton has announced seven new equity partners into its new corporate structure.
Founded in 1938, Kay &amp; Burton is Melbourne based specialising in prestige property, what they suggest is "an increasingly dynamic market." 
In recent times the business has seen major investments including the development of Kay &amp; Burton Projects as a player in high end off-the-plan new developments. 
Property management businesses have been launched in Armadale and Brighton to meet the needs of an expanding client base.
The firm also implemented “cloud based” technology throughout the organisation to enhance the customer experience, plus a host of cutting-edge digital marketing products that more effectively and efficiently promote properties to active and passive buyers. 
“To maximise the impact of these investments, a corporate structure with a unique equity offering for partners to buy into the entire Kay &amp; Burton Group as opposed to a piece of only one office or division," Kay &amp; Burton's non-executive chairman Rob Edgley said. 
In contrast to a franchise model, Kay &amp; Burton operates as one firm working.  
“We are very excited to announce this diverse group of talented and high-performing business professionals as our new equity partners. 
"We are certain that they will be instrumental in taking Kay &amp; Burton to even greater heights,” Kay &amp; Burton's non-executive chairman Rob Edgley said.
Managing director Michael Gibson <a href="/news/kay-burton-managing-director-michael-gibson-sells-down-shares">sold down his shares</a> for there to be new equity partners.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/1/Strip%20ad%20keep%20up%20in%202019.jpg" alt=""></a>
Kay and Burton’s new equity partners comprise:  
Gary Ormrod
Gary joined Kay &amp; Burton as a property manager in late 1997 and moved into the sales division in 2001. Gary’s client service skills were initially developed in senior positions at National Australia Bank and Crown Casino.  Over the last twenty years, he has honed these skills to be one of Kay &amp; Burton’s most consistent performers, winning the award for 2018 Top Salesperson by transaction volume.
Tom Staughton
Tom has enjoyed a long career at Kay &amp; Burton since graduating from Swinburne University.  Starting in property management, then moving into sales where he has spent the past fifteen years. Through a combination of hard work, attention to detail and a dynamic approach to marketing properties in his care, Tom was recognised by Kay &amp; Burton as a Rising Star in 2013.
Andrew Sahhar
Andrew has experienced success in selling property in Melbourne's most prestigious suburbs, since joining Kay and Burton South Yarra in 2007. He previously graduated with Bachelor of Applied Science (Construction Management) gaining skills in negotiating, project and risk management as a team member working in international construction companies. 
Rebecca Edwards
Rebecca has been a member of the Hawthorn office since September 2011 and has built an reputation during her 12 years in the real estate industry.  As a lifelong Kew resident, she has an understanding of the market place and demographics across the Boroondara and Yarra environs.  Rebecca was recognised by Kay &amp; Burton as a Rising Star in 2016 and won the 2016 and 2017 Top Salesperson by transaction volume award.  
Grant Samuel
Grant joined Kay &amp; Burton’s South Yarra office in July 2014 and has extensive experience at a director’s level in sales and corporate marketing roles. Grant was awarded the company’s Rising Star Award in 2016 followed by the 2018 Top Salesperson of the Year.
Lou Opie
Currently the COO, Lou joined Kay &amp; Burton in February 2016 with a wealth of experience gained from her 23 years as a chartered accountant in the financial services sector in Australia, London and the Middle East.  Lou’s skills and experience in investment banking and funds management span across finance, operations, risk &amp; compliance, IT, marketing and HR.
Carolyn Purnell-Webb
Carolyn joined Kay &amp; Burton in September 2016 to lead the property management division after running her own property management consultancy and training business for 16 years.  Under her guidance, the property management division has become one of the fastest growing divisions at Kay &amp; Burton.  Carolyn has been recognised by the company and received the Outstanding Leadership award in both 2017 and 2018.  She has an MBA from Griffith University and will complete a law degree in 2019.
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Kay & Burton announces seven new equity partners in its new corporate structure

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One of McGrath's top selling Sydney agents, Michael Coombs is tipped to join LJ Hooker's Avnu, a little-known, newly launched, technology-based full-service agency.
Avnu allows agents and customers to manage their sales and properties in real time through digital online software.
Avnu is based in Neutral Bay, on the lower north shore, not far from the Mosman McGrath office which Coombs departed mid-week.
Coombs has privately acknowledge the current "proptech" revolution in the residential market paved the way for how homes would be sold in the future.
Coombs <a href="/news/michael-coombs-departs-mcgrath">departed McGrath</a> earlier this week.
LJ Hooker picked the lower north shore - where is has operated since the 1950s - to launch the Avnu brand.
With little fanfare, its chairman and local resident L. Janusz Hooker launch the app mid-year.
“It’s your normal LJ Hooker, but it’s a place where technology is driving the process for both agents and consumers," said the grandson of the company’s founder, Sir Leslie Joseph Hooker.
With fewer than 20 sales since its office launch, Coombs could be expected to turbo-charge the office which has the banding: a new avenue in real estate.
One of Avnu's recently listings was an East Killara mid-century design trophy home.
The Harold R. McCauley-designed modernist house was offered through with $1.8 million hopes through LJ Hooker Avnu agent Vanessa Coles, who was previously with Belle Property.
Avnu, run by former Google, Twitter and LinkedIn execs, aims to reshape the homebuyer experience by smoothing the process where there's an estimated 200 steps involved in buying a property, between appraisal and settlement.
It’s a separate entity to the LJ Hooker franchise model and will have its own agents and shop front despite its cloud-based technology approach.
Jason Chuck, the chief executive of LJ Hooker Avnu, was a former local founder and managing director of eHarmony and Houzz, and before that head of marketing for Google.
Ajeya Vempati, former Google Engineering lead, consultant for LinkedIn and Twitter, came on as LJ Hooker Avnu's chief technology officer.
Head of product at LJ Hooker Avnu is James Piskorz.
Christine Mikhael, the former general manager of sales and training at McGrath LNS, has been the director of sales and performance since March. At age 23, Mikhael became the youngest woman in Australia to establish and solely own a real estate agency.
Mr Chuck said the LJ Hooker Avnu platform is the first of its kind and offers the "next frontier of customer service in what is a very fragmented industry".
"If someone was to start a real estate agency today, this is the model they would use. It's a clean slate for what is effectively an industry start-up for the next century," Mr Chuck told Nine Entertainment.
Its customers pay the usual industry-based fees for marketing and agent costs.
Avnu's company registration was preceded by <a href="/news/settl-lj-hookers-diy-hybrid-property-sales-platform-to-take-on-disruptors">Settl</a>, a thwarted part of LJ Hooker’s $100 million digital transformation. 
LJ Hooker Avnu's early recruits include Adrian Bridges who was ranked in Australia's REB Top 100 agents and recorded more than $120 million in sales last year.
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What is LJ Hooker's Avnu? the much hyped new avenue in real estate

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Purplebricks shares fell almost 13 percent on Thursday after the company reported its interim results in London overnight.
The Australian operating loss of A$10.2 million in the first half includes one-off costs in connection with the recent restructuring and re-positioning of the business. Some further one-off restructuring costs are also expected in the second half of the year, although it is now expected that second half losses will be below those reported in the first half.
Purplebricks said it had “experienced some challenges in Australia" that had "stunted growth."
Its investment in Australia to date was put at £28 million, almost $A50 million.
It was September 2016 when it officially launched in Queensland and Victoria. In January 2017 it launched in NSW, followed in March and April in Perth and Adelaide respectively.
It reported its Australian operations had experienced "a tough period driven by external and internal factors which stunted growth."
Despite this its revenue growth was 40 percent.
In October there was a 38 percent growth in new instructions compared with September in Australia.
"While reporting strong growth in Australia, the underlying performance was held back by market conditions and some operational issues, which we have taken steps to correct with changes to the team, customer proposition and business model," it told shareholders.
Overall first-half losses have more than doubled at the international online estate agent.
The UK operations of the company are profitable, but globally losses continue to mount, more than doubling from a year ago.
It noted that its international business now makes up 31% of Group revenue,
Purplebricks made a pre-tax loss of £27.3m in the six months to 31 October, up from £11.4m in the equivalent period last year. The company is listed on the AIM junior stock market.
The company said they anticipate profitability <a href="/news/purplebricks-australia-sees-profitability-within-next-year">within the next year.</a>
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/12/14/Purple5.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/12/14/Purple5.jpg" alt="">
The real estate agency said international group revenue was up 75% to £70.1 million, compared to £40.1 million reported a year previously.
UK revenue increased 39% to £48.3 million, with UK ancillary revenue up 25% in the six months to 31 October.
The tough conditions in the UK market are already claiming casualties, with Purplebricks rivals Emoov and Tepilo going into administration earlier this month.
Michael Bruce, Group CEO, commented Purplebricks would "emerge stronger from the ongoing industry shakeout." 
“Purplebricks has led industry change and through our strategy of relentless innovation will continue to do so.”
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/12/14/Purple6.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/12/14/Purple6.jpg" alt="">
The company reported it makes an average of £1,209 in revenue for each instruction it receives from a UK home seller.
A spokesman said that against this figure are admin costs of 18.5 per cent of revenue, and marketing costs of 28 per cent. So for an average £1,209 coming in from a UK instruction at least £562 of costs would be incurred on average.
The online real estate agent was founded back in 2012. It debuted on the junior AIM market of the London Stock Exchange back in December of 2017.
The firm turned its first ever profit in December 2016, with earnings of £300,000 in the six months to October end.
Since then, Purplebricks has gone on to expand its operations to the U.S and Australia.
Shares in the company are currently trading -10.67% as of 13:06 PM (GMT).
The fall in Purplebricks’ share price has been of the order of 60 percent this year.
Purplebricks changed its business model in Australia its first overseas market, when raising fees and making half the figure payable only on completion of a sale which was a departure from its UK model, where vendors pay whether or not a house sells.
Shareholders were told the underlying Australian results "testify to the challenges in the first few months of the period but are too early to show the benefits of the recent changes in the customer offering and reward for LPEs."
"One such change has been the removal of the salaried position of Local Sales Assistants.
"Combined with other changes the number of monthly instructions required to reach breakeven has been substantially reduced."
Bruce said a similar change in the UK was “not on the agenda”.
Earlier this year Purplebricks said they were unhappy with the <a href="/news/purplebricks-lashes-out-at-negative-australia-media-reporting-as-unhappy-agents-keep-departing">negative reporting in the Australian media</a> leading to agents leaving. 
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Purplebricks Australian operations admit "some challenges" stunted its growth

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Melbourne real estate agency LongView is launching this month a number of innovative tools for investors to distinguish it from other agencys.
LongView will enable investors, be it property investors or mum and dad owners, to better capitalise on their property investment.
<a href="https://longview.com.au" target="_blank">LongView</a> will offer a guaranteed rent service that gives investors financial security.
"This is not a gimmick or a 'magic pudding' – our data scientists analysed thousands of property years of vacancy statistics to make sure we understand the risks," the website advises.
"And our service team have created innovative approaches to minimising vacancy and rental arrears."
It currently services over 1,800 properties across 146 suburbs over Melbourne.
Their website offered an indication that LongView offers Guaranteed Rent contracts on about 90% of all investment properties.
The agency is chaired by former politician Evan Thornley, who co-founded, chaired and acted as the CEO of LookSmart, a pioneer of internet search advertising and Australia's first NASDAQ-listed high-tech company.
Thornley says he views property investment as a long game.
"Investors have been demanding change for a long time and we have spent four years of intensive research developing every aspect of LongView Real Estate,” Thornley said.
“We’ve been talking to property investors and listening to their concerns and hearing their needs.”
“While Guaranteed Rent is a fantastic concept that we are very proud of, we absolutely focus on getting the basic services to clients right as well.
"That means being accessible till 10pm at night, have clear contact details in every email and regularly asking and measuring our client satisfaction.
LongView’s Guaranteed Rent offers a safe and viable option for investors who are thinking of selling. 
“LongView’s focus is on servicing investors’ needs, and helping them understand all the options to maximise value from their property investments - not constantly pressuring to sell - that’s our point of difference,” Thornley said.
Thornley says that investors need an agency that will deliver the basics every day for decades and give them unbiased advice on all their options when the big decisions come for each property.
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“We have developed a model that works, using data to help support our insights.
"We offer a unique Guaranteed Rent for their property – something no other agency will do."
LongView will offer their customers a binding legal contract for Guarantee Rent on any investment property - at full market value, giving landlords and investors piece of mind knowing their cash flow is secure.
Whether the property is tenanted or vacant or whether the tenant is on time with paying rent or not, LongView is taking the risk out of property investing.
“Property investors make their money over decades through capital growth and rising income.
"We offer an alternative to traditional real estate agencies that aren’t focussed on investors and push for a one-month romance to pressure you to sell.
"We seek to deliver the best basic services every day for decades and unique options and services for the big property decisions.” Thornley added.
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Thornley is part of the executive team that includes former KPMG senior partner and board director Antony Cohen.
 
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Melbourne real estate agency LongView launches investor rental guarantee

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As Philip Webb approaches 46 years as the face of his real estate agency in Melbourne’s East, he is making moves to ensure the continued success of the business.
He has appointed general manager and his eldest son Anthony Webb with the role after a five-year planning process. 
Whilst taking a step back from leadership duties, Philip will still play a hands-on role with business strategy and development.
“This is an opportunity for reinvention. As we gear up for 2019 we can position ourselves to make aggressive moves towards real and positive growth,” Philip said.
“Anthony is exactly what we need to forge ahead, leading the company into new markets, ensuring our continued success and creating opportunities for staff.”
This year marked Anthony's 20th year in the business.
Anthony got his start in property management, before heading overseas working in sales and investment with several prominent companies in the UK and Ireland. 
He won the REIV’s Novice Auctioneer’s Competition in 2004 and joining the Advisory Board for the Real Estate Results Network in 2017.
“I am honoured to be stepping up in a greater leadership capacity. My goal for the future of PhilipWebb is to continue to provide exceptional service and outstanding results, regardless of the real estate environment,” the new CEO said.
 
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Philip Webb announces Anthony Webb as new CEO

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Nick Cole, the youngest son of agent Lucy Cole (pictured left), founder of the prestige property agency that bears her name, is launching his own boutique agency Cole Residential.
Cole Residential will focus on a broader market segment, ensuring the Cole name has the entire Gold Coast real estate market covered.
Since joining the family business nine years ago, Nick has quickly become one the top selling agents within the agency and across Australia. 
He has been named Salesperson of the Year by Leading Agents of Australia, and has broken several Gold Coast sales records.
Mr Cole says that while awards and records are wonderful accolades, the true testimony of his work is in his client’s satisfaction. Whether the property is a luxury home, a multi-million dollar development or a simple modest dwelling, Mr Cole’s approach is always firmly focused on the client experience.
His absolute dedication to client service is one of the many things Mr Cole says he learned from his mother. 
“My mother is an incredible salesperson and has built one of the most successful agencies on the Gold Coast,” Mr Cole says. 
“Working alongside her has been an incredible experience. 
Mr Cole says that in launching Cole Residential, he intends to combine these old school values with a contemporary approach that embraces technology and innovation, to give his clients the best of both worlds.
Lucy Cole says she is thrilled to see Nick start his own enterprise, as she herself did so many years ago. 
A former TSS and Bond University graduate, Mr Cole has lived and worked all over the world, but says the Gold Coast is a special place, particularly for real estate.Cole Residential will open in Spring 2018 at Capri on Via Roma, Isle of Capri.
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