A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Real Estate Agents

Australians have been staying at home on and off during the intermittent lockdowns&nbsp;and for homebuyers, this means a delay, sometime indefinitely, in purchasing property.

However, data in both the first Melbourne lockdown&nbsp;and beyond shows&nbsp;that online visits and enquiries of property listings have surged by over 50%.

Here at Urban, we have compiled a list of questions so prospective buyers can get a handle on what they should be asking agents during online inspections. This is useful both during lockdown and for properties available for purchase off-the-plan,&nbsp;or available across state or national borders&nbsp;when in-person inspection may not be possible.

For a more <a href="/guides/the-ultimate-off-the-plan-guide-5-property-experts-share-advice-for-buying-a-new-apartment-or-townhome" target="_blank">in-depth guide on off-the-plan</a> buying check out our expert guide.

1. What&#39;s the cost per square metre for each floorplan configuration? (make a note of this and compare to other properties you virtually view)

This is vital information to compare the value of the property to others in the area as well as the suburb/region you are looking to buy in. It is&nbsp;important&nbsp;to make sure you are buying a property that suits your needs and has room to grow, one marker of such potential is if the $/psqm is below median for the area, however it isn&#39;t the be all end all

2. When is construction slated to start/be completed?

Construction projections are important information as it will have an effect on how long you may rent or choose to settle on your current property. Ensure the builder/construction firm is reliable and has a good reputation to reduce the likelihood of delay.&nbsp;

Keep in mind that some delays may occur if a coronavirus outbreak occurs.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5806 project_image_fid=168936]

3. Which items within the display are included and which are optional upgrades?

Straightforward enough, make sure you don&#39;t get blindsided and chuck out your old washer/dryer just because the display suite has one, double check with the agent to see what is supplied by the developer as some offer white-goods packages and optional deals.

4. What customisation option do you have available?

Depending on the design firm and developer, some firms offer a higher degree of customisation, this tends to increase linearly with price as the more expensive the property is, the more customisable it generally is. Either way you should ask as many developments offer at minimum a choice in colour pallete&nbsp;and fittings&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5559 project_image_fid=88241]

5. What&#39;s the ceiling height? (compare this to your own ceilings at home)

While this many not mean as much to someone who is 150 cm tall, for prospective basketball players... and everyone else, it&#39;s worth knowing ceiling height as this can impact whether the home feels claustrophobic or spacious and airy regardless of your personal height.

6. Which aspect does the particular apartment I&#39;m considering buying face? (take note of where the sun is throughout the day in your own home)

This is important for natural light purposes, as well as potential views as some apartments will offer a better aspect than others.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22034 project_image_fid=170355]

7. Who built the display suite and will they be constructing the actual apartments/townhomes?

A vital point of note is the builder, don&#39;t misunderstand something because of an unrealistic display suite.

8. If taking a virtual tour, ask the agent to zoom in on details so you can see the build quality

If the builder doesn&#39;t put their best foot forward with the display suite, it is worth asking the agent about it and whether other properties you have looked at demonstrate better build quality or detailing.

Here at Urban, we have compiled a list of questions so prospective buyers can get a handle on what they should be asking agents during online inspections, useful both during lockdown and for those buying out of state or internationally

jordan_55689

What to ask agents when being taken through a display suite online

<html><body>After a year of COVID-19 impacts, getting back to business as usual will present challenges for some real estate agencies. According to a Melbourne Institute study, 70 per cent of workers who worked remotely during the pandemic wish to continue working from home.

The challenge for businesses is creating those beneficial moments that occur during face-to-face contact. In a hybrid work model where team members might not align on working days, those connections that are so important to collaboration and innovation will be fewer and farther between. 

Leading firms believe that holding in-person business events is key to improving the hybrid working model with moments of powerful team building.

The human brain is hardwired for physical connection and eye contact, something that cannot be replicated by using screens.

In less than a second of meeting someone, physical engagement fires up your neurons, generating the chemistry that pre-empts the beginnings of empathy and trust. A group of connected people can change how we see an issue, alter our priorities as a group, and create a capacity to collaborate around shared values.

At First National Real Estate, we’re working hard to make sure that the crucial bonds that lead to knowledge sharing are re-established as quickly as possible. I’ve always strongly believed in holding business events that bring people together and our national convention, this May in Canberra, is on track for 500 First National co-operative members and their employees. The event is already oversubscribed and we’ve had to book an overflow hotel.

After spending so long away from peers during COVID, the desire to get together to share our journeys and our experiences is critical. But the way I see it, this is not just a business session or awards event, it’s about helping our people return to normality, become a better person and run a better business.

Pre-COVID, First National would run 30-50 events a year in each state, ranging from training to functions, as well as two to three national events. Having in-person meetups in different locations is critical to the success of the business.

The greatest benefit has been the sharing of ideas. We’ve got offices from Bendigo to Cairns and that shared business experience, whether staffing, sales, legalities, or HR, is 100 times better than Googling or trying to muddle through on your own. 

The building of relationships cannot be done over Zoom or via email, only done by good old-fashioned chat and advice, so events are critical to what we do.
Events can fast-track the restoration of relationships that have diminished during the pandemic. 

According to researchers at Yale University’s School of Management, during COVID-19 our professional and personal networks have shrunk by almost 16 per cent, or the equivalent of 200 people.
That has dramatic consequences for businesses. It can lead to less creativity and more groupthink. 

People with fewer connections at work have a decreased sense of belonging and are less likely to identify with the organisation, which puts them at higher risk of turnover and possibly even fraud and negligence.

Ray Eliis is the CEO of First National Real Estate</body></html>

The building of relationships cannot be done over Zoom or via email, says Ray Ellis

rellis

Rebuilding real estate connections after COVID-19: First National's Ray Ellis

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Soon we will be hearing more and more about the big sister of underquoting and this will be overquoting, and it bites.
Be warned, unlike the roar that politicians and our Real Estate Industry (REI) make about underquoting, this one will bite deep and hard into the pockets of REA’s and their offices.
Now that I have your attention, pour yourself a cup of coffee and read on. I will explain what overquoting entails. I will also explain the dangers it poses to both vendors and agents.
Overquoting
<ul>
<li>For most agents working in our industry, the term overquoting is mainly referred to as: buying the listing.</li>
<li>Buying the listing in turn refers to: informing the vendor that their property will sell for a lot more than what the market is demanding or dictating at the time.</li>
<li>The purpose of overquoting is: to obtain a listing under false pretense of a high sales price. Higher than the estimated values placed by other agents in the area.</li>
<li>The REA’s intention is: to eventually “condition” the vendor to accept less, as the buyers inspecting the property, offer what the market is truly dictating.</li>
</ul>
Underquoting serves the function to condition the buyers to believe they will buy the property for less, as low price guides are given by REA's. The agents on the other hand, hope that the auction frenzy will motivate them to pay more as they add competition to realistic buyers.
Underquoting, as a form of bait advertising, is a marketing process readily used in a heated property market.
The use of overquoting by the agent, is to win the listing and to have the chance of selling the property. The sales process which precedes winning the listing conditions the vendor to accept less than what the agents originally quote in their Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).
Overquoting is a form of deception used by agents, to convince vendors to sell through them and their office.
What will vendors do?
Now please pay very close attention as this is what I mean when I say overquoting will bite and bite hard.
Vendors will not sit back and take it on the chin, unlike buyers when they are deceived by bait advertising.
When vendors believe that their properties have dropped in value, as they compare the agent’s CMA to what is being offered, vendors will act and take action against the agent.
Real estate agents (REA) will soon find themselves in hot water and face litigation.
In the case of underquoting, the accumulated losses of individual’s time and money as a buyer, may total around $1000 on average. A loss, that may not necessarily warrant time and effort, to report the REA that is believed to be underquoting.
On the other hand, a perceived loss of $10's of thousands of dollars, to a vendor, will warrant a claim against the agent.
I have written about this in the past and have said; until losses justify time and effort spent by consumers, to lodge claims with the authorities, REA’s will do as they please.
However, be warned for what is to eventuate and is just around the corner.
Some REA’s will take it in their stride and heed this advice but some will also believe they are above the law and the authorities. It won’t surprise me to see the same REA’s that underquote lead the way to overquoting practices. Sadly most will again be members of the REI's.
The difference this time folks, it won’t be a toothless tiger on their case, it will be a vendor determined to be compensated.
 
EDWIN ALMEIDA is licensee in charge of <a href="https://www.just-think.com.au/" target="_blank">Just Think Real Estate</a>.<a href="https://www.just-thin.com.au/"> </a>
He is also the creator of <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/JustThinkProperty" target="_blank">Oz Real Estate.TV</a> and a presenter for <a href="https://propertyinvestingvault.com/" target="_blank">propertyinvestingvault.com</a>.
</body></html>

ealmedia-arK4DBYLjS

Overquoting set to bite: Edwin Almeida

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The REB Top 100 Agents 2020 list has been released, with Alexander Phillips of PPD Real Estate taking out the list’s top- spot with over half-a-billion dollars in residential listings sold. 

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The list revealed the average sale price for a top-ten agent saw a slight decrease to $2.2 million, from $2.4 million in 2019. 

In 2018, the average sale price for the top 10 was $2.5 million, and in 2017 it was $2.0 million.

The average sale price for the top 100 in 2020 was much lower collectively, at $1.4 million.

The average commission for the top 10 in 2020 remained consistent with 2019 at 1.67 per cent.

In comparison, the average commission for the top 100 sat at 1.77 per cent in 2020.

A typical top 100 agent on this year’s list has 16 years’ experience, which is largely in line with rankings from previous years. 

Furthermore, the profile of a top 10 agent in this year’s ranking was someone with an average of 20 years’ experience. 

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This, again, is largely consistent with the results of previous years, with the average years of experience being 20.7 in 2019, 21 in 2018, 22 in 2017 and 18 in 2016 for the top 10. 

Alexander Phillips, secured 215 listings, of which he sold 186.

This equated to a total of $522,477,791 in total sales, at an average price of $2,809,020, and an average of 23 days on the market. 

Michael Clarke, of Clarke and Humel Property, came in second place, with a total value of $435,077,833 in sales.

He secured 195 listings, and sold 183, at an average sales price sat at $2,377,474, with an average of 23 days on market. 

Ric Serrao, from Raine &amp; Horne, secured third place on the list, with $293,779,250 in total sale.

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He secured 181 listings, and sold 116 of them with an average price of $2,532,580, after spending an average of 39 days on the market. 

James Tostevin – who ranked fourth – was the top-ten’s most experienced agent with a total of 35 years in the industry. 

Meanwhile, Helen Yan - who ranked ninth – was the least experienced with just 10 years in the industry. 

The top-ten ranked REB agents in 2020 were:

1.     Alexander Phillips from PPD Real Estate

2.     Michael Clarke from Clarke and Humel Property

3.     Ric Serrao from Raine &amp; Horne

4.     James Tostevin from Marshall White

5.     Richard Shaloub from MGrath Estate agents

6.     Peter Chauncy from MGrath Estate agents

7.     David Highland from Highland Property Agents 

8.     Mathew Steinwede from MGrath Estate agents

9.     Helen Yan from Ray White

10.  David Walker from Ray White

More on the rankings can be found <a href="https://www.realestatebusiness.com.au/top-100-agents-2020" target="_blank">here.</a>
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Alexander Phillips tops REB Top 100 Agents for 2020

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Just 17% of the REB Top 100 Agents in 2020 were women.
Helen Yan from Ray White, who came in at ninth place, was the highest ranking female agent and the only one to crack the top ten.
Ms Yan was, however, the least experienced agent to make the top-ten, achieving the impressive feat after only 10 years in the industry (compared to a top-ten average of around 20 years experience, and a high of 35).
Six of the women who made the list were appearing for the first time in 2020, including Vivien Yap who ranked at an impressive 29th.
Maria Cassarino from Stone Real Estate, saw the biggest improvement on the list since last year, having moved up 14 places to number 83.
The female estate agents who made made the list were:
Helen Yan (9th)
Catherine Dixon (24th)
Betty Ockerland (28th)
Vivien Yap (29th)
Tracy Dixon (43rd)
Annika Bongiorno (47th)
Michelle Stephens (55th)
Kate Strickland (60th)
Jill Henry (62nd)
Georgi Bates (65th)
Romana Altman (66th)
Anna Younan (68th)
Maria Cassarino (83rd)
Marnie Seinor (86th)
Michell Skoglund (88th)
Kate Smith (89th)
Cindy Kennedy (90th)
Arabella Hooper (100th).
More on the rankings can be found <a href="https://www.realestatebusiness.com.au/top-100-agents-2020" target="_blank">here.</a>
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REB Top 100 Agents 2020 comprises less than 20% women

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Total Real Estate Training, the organisers of The Australasian Real Estate Conference (AREC) and real estate coach Tom Panos kicked off a series of four free webinars, drawing a massive crowd from anxious estate agents around the country.
John McGrath, founder of AREC said, “COVID has forced us all to innovate and our online event today was a great example of leveraging technology to enhance customer experience. And when the people can’t get to AREC we have to bring AREC to the people. Feedback was incredible with over 4,500 people glued to their screens for the first of four Legends of Real Estate sessions."
The one hour session featured three outstanding agents who gave personal insights and strategies on how to achieve results today, but importantly post Covid.
Today’s session shared simple tips around inner strength, longevity and building relationships that make ‘clients for life’. The speakers were: Phil Harris - Harris Real Estate, SA; Tracey Dixon - McGrath Estate Agents, Hunters Hill, NSW; and Cathy Baker – Belle Property,Central Coast, NSW.
The big conference to inspire estate agents held annually during winter's quiet listing period, had been postponed due to the rules regarding gatherings.
The US best seller Ryan Holiday was set to open the Australia Real Estate Conference (AREC) giving insights to the near anticipated 3000 attendees from his book topic, Ego Is The Enemy.
The big drawcard was set to be entrepreneur Elle 'The Body' MacPherson who was scheduled to fly in from her Florida base to close the two day June event.
Nichola Byrne, General Manager of Total Real Estate Training, said that initially they anticipated registrations of 3,000.
“Currently there are many learning events being offered, however in these challenging timeswe felt it appropriate to give back to the industry, and as a goodwill gesture we wanted to offer these webinars free of charge,” she said.
Last year's conference was impacted with McGrath and AREC founder John McGrath confirming the low listings, pre-election market shakedown resulted in fewer agents at his longtime income producing trading conference, AREC19.
The two-day conference returned for the eighth year to the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre last June.
AREC has been a source of revenue for the estate agency.
It was opened last year by sales entrepreneur and bestselling author Todd Duncan, who has written 17 books including New York Times bestsellers Time Traps: Proven Strategies for Swamped Sales People and High Trust Selling: Make More Money in Less Time with Less Stress.
McGrath has told trade websites the current market shakedown.
“Chaos creates opportunity if you will,” he advised last year. 
Mr McGrath said that the greatest risk to the industry was resistance.
“Change will be a major theme and how to embrace it.
"Whilst we will have our traditional hand-picked group of real estate superstars, we have also a larger-than-ever group of agents working traditional suburban markets producing phenomenal results.
“No longer do you have to work in Toorak or Double Bay to write $2 million in fees and our speakers will demonstrate that.”
Click here to access <a href="https://tompanos.ontraport.com/c/s/5jN/sgxZP/6/s7y/xwy/6iqk8x/zonDyg5tFJ/P/P/sL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">AREC 2020 - Legends of Real Estate</a> (part 2/4):
<ul>
<li><a href="https://tompanos.ontraport.com/c/s/5jN/sgxZP/s/s72/xwy/6iqk8x/6IaLPyv72z/P/P/sL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Peter Chauncy</a> - McGrath Estate Agents, NSW</li>
<li><a href="https://tompanos.ontraport.com/c/s/5jN/sgxZP/v/s78/xwy/6iqk8x/CZZaQvO0c/P/P/sL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Josh Tesolin</a> - Australian Real Estate, NSW</li>
<li>
<a href="https://tompanos.ontraport.com/c/s/5jN/sgxZP/z/s77/xwy/6iqk8x/vl6XBTTyPC/P/P/sL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lisa Novak</a> - Novak Properties, NSW  </li>
</ul>
The speakers for <a href="https://tompanos.ontraport.com/c/s/5jN/sgxZP/U/s7q/xwy/6iqk8x/YjvcrRMMk/P/P/sL" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">AREC 2020 (part 3/4)</a> will go LIVE at 10:00am AEST today:
<ul>
<li>Tanja Neven-Jones - O'Brien Real Estate, VIC</li>
<li>Simon Caulfield - Place, QLD</li>
<li>Matt Lancashire - Ray White, QLD</li>
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AREC webinar draws 4,500 estate agent crowd

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The New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has barred brokers from showing homes, as part of a sweeping ban on activities that risk spreading the coronavirus.
At a press conference Friday, Cuomo announced an executive order mandating all employees of non-essential businesses to stay home from work.
The <a href="https://esd.ny.gov/guidance-executive-order-2026" target="_blank">list of essential jobs</a> includes food delivery, doormen and some construction.
It does not include real estate brokers.
The order requires non-essential businesses reduce its in-person workforce by 75 percent by Saturday and by 100 percent by Sunday.
The Real Deal website reported when Cuomo discussed the 90-day ban on evictions, he said, “I don’t know who you think you’re going to rent an apartment to now, anyway, if you kick someone out. 
"By my mandate, you couldn’t even have your real estate agent out showing the apartment.”
Across the other side of America, parts of California’s real estate industry are grinding to a halt because of Gov. Gavin Newsom’s “stay at home” order.
An auspicious beginning of 2020 for L.A.’s top residential brokerages that included record-setting sales has ground to a halt.
The 15,000 L.A.-based realtors represented in the local Multiple Listing Service (MLS) had been hoping for the best but preparing for the worst.
But the governor’s office <a href="https://covid19.ca.gov/stay-home-except-for-essential-needs/" target="_blank">amended his emergency order</a> to designate housing construction as an “essential business” because of the state’s ongoing housing shortage.
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New York stops estate agents showing homes to buyers and renters

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Australian estate agents will set out this week to ascertain if they can continue to transact their property sale listings and leasing managements given the social distancing shutdown regulations.
In the absence of any official industry edict as at Monday morning, some estate agents will seek to adapt how they can continue to transact their property listings and managements.
Many agents are hoping it is business as usual.
On Sunday both the NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrew announced they will enforce a comprehensive shutdown of “non-essential services.”
But neither Premier indicated that the real estate industry was restricted from trading.
The later official advisory on stage one of the measures from the Federal Government advised the following facilities will be restricted from opening from midday 23 March 2020:
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<li>Pubs, registered and licenced clubs (excluding bottle shops attached to these venues), hotels (excluding accommodation)</li>
<li>Gyms and indoor sporting venues </li>
<li>Cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs</li>
<li>Restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery</li>
<li>Religious gatherings, places of worship or funerals.</li>
</ul>
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The Urban Taskforce CEO, Tom Forrest, has called on State and Commonwealth Governments to be clear with their messages.
“The announcement must be clear and targeted”, Mr Forrest said.
Mr Forrest said that the messaging to date has too often been clumsy and ambiguous.
“If there is to be a close-down of business in NSW, what does this mean for construction workers? What does it mean for those working out-doors or indoors? What does it mean for delivery drivers or manufacturers?
Mr Forrest called on the NSW Government to be clear about if businesses should continue to operate remotely or shut down altogether.
“Urban Taskforce members support measures to prevent the spread of COVID 19. But support for the property, construction and development industry is critical to the economy and the hundreds of thousands of jobs involved,” Mr Forrest said.
The real estate industry appears spared from the extreme of the first stage of the shutdown if it enforces social distancing that doesn't put the participants at risk.
One of the ways agents can adapt to these measures is using available technology.
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Whether open for inspections for multiple unknown parties can continue is highly questionable. 
Limiting auctions to registered bidders practising social distancing appears wise.
Requesting that visitors to open inspections come in small private groups and keep hands in their pockets while doing so are among measures being taken by some agents.
Last week some auction slated for inroom or indoor were moved outdoors to stay within the government's 100 person limit on indoor non-essential social gatherings
All non-essential indoor gatherings of less than 100 people must have no more than one person per 4sqm. 
"All Australians should expect their local businesses to be following this rule," the latest official update advises.
There are around 115,000 sale listings on the market, according to CoreLogic. SQM calculate 68,079 vacant residential properties.
 
 
 
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Real estate industry in testing social distancing shutdown amid coronavirus fears

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A former Cleveland real estate agent has been reprimanded and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) following proceedings initiated by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).
Pamela Dawn Neilson faced disciplinary action after she failed to notify the OFT that she had become bankrupt, gave false information to the OFT when applying to renew her real estate agent licence, and had continued to sell properties while unlicensed.
In addition to a $10,000 fine, Ms Neilson was also suspended from holding a certificate under the Property Occupations Act 2014 (the Act) for four months.
The Tribunal heard Ms Neilson had held a real estate agent licence since 2005 but failed to inform the OFT when she became bankrupt in October 2015, as is required under the Act.
Ms Neilson’s bankruptcy made her immediately unsuitable to hold a real estate licence however between October 2015 and January 2017 she continued to work in a real estate salesperson capacity, selling 21 properties.
The Tribunal also heard that on 29 September 2016 Ms Neilson lodged a licence renewal application, which included a signed declaration that she was not currently bankrupt. Ms Neilson eventually advised the OFT of her bankruptcy on 16 December 2016.
On 20 December 2019 the Tribunal released its decision in this matter. It found Ms Neilson had conducted herself in a way that was unprofessional but in determining penalty noted she had subsequently self-reported her conduct, had cooperated with the OFT’s investigation and had accepted the disciplinary grounds.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said real estate agents needed to remember the importance of acting in accordance with their licensing requirements.
“Agents must be honest about their circumstances and aware of their obligations,” Mr Bauer said.
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Former bankrupt Queensland estate cops $10,000 fine

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A Gordon Park real estate agent has been banned from working in the real estate industry for life and ordered to pay more than $80,000 in fines, compensation and costs after the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) took disciplinary action against him in the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT).
Martin David Moala Jones was co-jointly fined $15,000 with his company, Diligent Property Management Pty Ltd, and ordered to pay $18,087 in compensation and $47,767 in costs.
Mr Jones and his company were permanently disqualified from the industry and Mr Jones has been permanently banned from being an executive officer of any corporation licensed under the Property Occupations Act 2014.
The tribunal heard that Diligent Property Management’s corporation licence expired in May 2016 and Mr Jones had failed to renew it but had continued to operate the business until June 2017.
In November 2016, the OFT received a complaint from a property owner who believed he had not received all the rent money he was entitled to from Diligent Property Management.
The OFT investigation established a number of failures to comply with the law including that Mr Jones had not kept proper records, had not been properly appointed by his clients, and had mismanaged trust money.
Mr Jones’s failures led to a loss of his clients’ money. The OFT was forced to appoint a receiver over the trust property which found the trust account was overdrawn by more than $18,000.
Clients were compensated for their loss by the Agents Financial Administration claim fund, which is administered by the OFT.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer welcomed the tribunal’s decision to permanently disqualify Mr Jones from holding a real estate agent licence or certificate.
“There is no place in the real estate industry for people who do not comply with the law,” Mr Bauer said.
“People trust real estate agents with their most valuable asset, their property, and the OFT will continue to take agents to task if they are found to be doing the wrong thing.”
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