Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Real Estate News

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As is the case with a range of sectors, Facebook has removed the posting of a range of major real estate portals, trade media and real estate member organisations.

The Facebook pages of Realestate, Domain, Allhomes and Urban, have all been obstructed as real estate portals have been affected by Facebook’s decision to ban Australian news content from its platform.

REIA is currently assessing the situation and the impact on the industry as a whole as Facebook has been an important channel to connect with Australian’s looking to buy and rent property.

The move follows the debate on proposed legislation from the Australian government that seeks to push internet platforms — with a particular focus on advertising giants Facebook and Google — to pay news publishers directly for access to share their content.

REIA President, Adrian Kelly said he is confident real estate marketing will continue to reach its customers.

“From a real estate sales perspective, buyers will go where the properties are being advertised which could ultimately be to Facebook’s detriment," Mr Kelly said

“Covid has proven that estate agents are very quick to adapt to new technologies and that will be the case in the current environment."

“As with COVID-19, for agencies and our customers, the show must go on,” Mr Kelly added.
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Facebook has removed the posting of a range of major real estate portals, trade media and real estate member organisations as of this week

jordan_55689

Australian real estate slapped by Facebook takedowns

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EXPERT OBSERVER
There’s been a striking absence of balance in newspaper coverage of real estate in recent times. That mythical beast that some analysts call “the Australian property market” has been having either a rampant boom or a catastrophic collapse, with little middle ground.
Residential property appears to exist in a no-win situation. When prices were falling in some of our major markets earlier in the year, it was described as a national crisis. It was the biggest downturn on record and consumers were refusing to spend because their property values were “plummeting”.
And now that prices are rising again, that’s a catastrophe as well - because affordability is evaporating and no one will be able to buy.  APRA will be forced to act to squash rampant price escalation.
We have far too many economists, journalists and other poorly-credentialled commentators stressing over the resurgence in the so-called national property market. Consumers would benefit if everyone took a cold shower and had a wee lie down.
Part of the problem is the obsession with the two biggest cities and the tendency towards generalisation. Far too often, outcomes in Melbourne and Sydney are converted into a national scenario which plainly does not exist. Another part of the issue is sensationalism.
Here’s the Financial Review on 3 December: “Economists warn that Australia’s banking regulators will be pressured into introducing a new round of macroprudential tightening measures if the strong and swift surge in house prices continues into the new year.”
The Sydney Morning Herald on 2 December wrote: “Clearly, such increases in prices cannot be sustained. Sydney is growing at an annualised rate of almost 40% and Melbourne at almost 30% which – if continued – would see the median price hit $1.3 million and $1 million respectively by this time next year.”
A 5 December article on domain.com.au quoted economists from NAB, St George and AMP Capital fretting over the “sharp upturn” in prices and the return to “boom-time behaviour”. The lack of quality analysis was reflected in AMP’s Shane Oliver comment that prices may go ballistic because “it has that feel about it”, while NAB’s Alan Oster was quoted as saying: “We’re not sure if it will keep going. But we didn’t expect it to be this quick.”
Another SMH headline shouted: “RBA and Government walk tightrope on soaring house prices”.
All this and a lot more was based on one month’s price data from a single research source. Mainstream media has gone overboard in the coverage of this breath-taking event – and most have compounded their over-reaction by attributing everything to the recent interest rate reductions. 
An economics writer at The Australian wrote on 2 December that “the Reserve Bank’s controversial interest rate cuts have electrified the national housing market”. On the same day, an article in the Fairfax network had this headline: “Sydney and Melbourne house values surge on lower interest rates”. 
And a “business columnist” wrote in The Age: “Residential property prices are on a headline-grabbing tear as monthly growth rates hit a 21-year record ... The floodgates have started to open as cheap money has unleased pent-up demand and spurred buyers to bid up prices”.
This is kindergarten analysis. What about the host of other major factors which have influenced our many and varied real estate markets – like the Federal Election result, the APRA changes, the tax cuts, the assistance package for first-home buyers, the rise in consumer sentiment, the general shortage of supply - and, in some markets, big population growth and major infrastructure spending.
One research source claims big rises in Melbourne and Sydney in November (but less prolific rises for the bulk of the nation) and journalists have run amok.
I would pose this question: When did journalists stop questioning things? And when was it okay for writers to not have expertise on the subject about which they are writing?
A well-informed commentator would know this: if you source the latest price data on any of our capital cities from four different big-name entities, you get four different results. And often the figures from one source contradict those from another.
There are several major cities where, in annual terms, prices have risen according to some sources, but have fallen according to others. 
Misinformation abounds in real estate coverage and the losers are real estate consumers. It’s time for everyone to lift their game in 2020. But I won’t be holding my breath.
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Too much generalisation in Australian real estate: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

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The Agency has partnered with real estate coach Claudio Encina, who will reportedly be providing a tailored and on-call coaching service to company's east coast team. “I have known Claudio Encina for close to 40 years, both professionally and personally, he is an outstanding coach who genuinely cares about the welfare and success of the agents he is coaching. He individualises his service to every agent, there is nothing cookie cutter about Claudio’s approach,” Matt Lahood, The Agency’s CEO explains.
“No one can downplay the challenges everyone has experienced through this pandemic and we all need a support network. I will be back working closely with our agents providing guidance and mentorship and I am thrilled I will have Claudio Encina by my side working so closely with our agents also.” Claudio Encina has been coaching agents for more than ten years, and has been in the industy for 25 years.
“My first step with The Agency is to work closely with the agents on creating a strong position in the post-Covid market. At first it was about pivoting and quickly adapting to the necessary changes Covid required, but now we need to shift the needle on their businesses,” Claudio Encina says. “This includes the 12-week sprint to spring and strategic planning around the five critical drivers within an agent’s business.” 
According to Claudio Encina, agents can sure up their business’s future with a pro-active project management approach addressing the five critical drivers.
He describes these critical drivers as: lead generation; nurture (client ecosystems); conversion; vendor expectations and buyer management.  “I am honoured to work with The Agency and alongside Matt Lahood who I have known for 40 years. It is a prestigious brand with an impressive stable of agents. I am looking forward to providing support and proactively helping the agents grow and flourish professionally and personally,” Claudio Encina concluded.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The Agency partners with real estate coach Claudio Encinas

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The Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria has issued a public warning under section 223 of the Australian Consumer Law (Victoria) (ACL(Vic)) and section 228 of the Australian Consumer Law and Fair Trading Act 2012, regarding the conduct of Craig Alan McIntosh in the supply of real estate services.
<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/2017/08/31/Craig%20Alan%20McINTOSH%20%20July%202017.jpg" alt="">
The department has issued an image of Craig McIntosh (pictured above) given its concerns he has not and has never been a licensed estate agent.
On 17 March 2015, Consumer Affairs Victoria obtained injunctions against Mr McIntosh under the ACL (Vic), barring him from acting as an estate agent until he was licensed to do so.
While Mr McIntosh is eligible to be employed an agent’s representative, Business Licencing Authority (BLA) records currently show he is not employed by any real estate agency.
On 16 February 2017, Mr McIntosh ceased employment as an agent’s representative with a licensed estate agent operating under various trading names, including:
<ul>
<li>McIntosh Lincoln</li>
<li>McIntosh Lincoln City Residential, and</li>
<li>McIntosh Lincoln Property Concierge.</li>
</ul>
The estate agency was located at Level 11/180 Russell Street, Melbourne.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has been informed that since 16 February 2017, Mr McIntosh has held himself out to be able to:
<ul>
<li>engage in providing real estate services, and</li>
<li>receive funds on behalf of people selling or purchasing real estate.</li>
</ul>
The CAV is concerned that Mr McIntosh is continuing to:
<ul>
<li>undertake the business of an estate agent while not being licensed as an estate agent </li>
<li>hold himself out to be an agent’s representative while not under the supervision of a licensed estate agent, and</li>
<li>request payments for the purchase of real estate into a bank account that is not an authorised trust account and to which he has sole access.</li>
</ul>
The CAV is also concerned that any money provided to Mr McIntosh since 16 February 2017 may not be considered trust money under the Estate Agents Act 1980, and will therefore not be protected under the Victorian Property Fund.
"Until further notice, consumers are warned to not engage Mr McIntosh's services as an estate agent or provide him with any money for the purchase of real estate," the department has warned.
Any consumer who has been approached by Mr McIntosh since 16 February 2017 in relation to the purchase or selling of real estate, or has provided or been asked to provide any form of payment to him in relation to any real estate transaction, can contact us on 1300 55 81 81. 
In 2015 Sunnymac Pty Ltd, trading as McIntosh City Residential, and its director Craig Alan McIntosh, were first restrained from carrying on business as a real estate agent until licensed to do so, by order of the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court.
The court accepted that Sunnymac (ACN 1199 107 08) and Mr McIntosh, then 48, of Southbank, contravened the Estate Agents Act 1980 by acting as an estate agent without a licence. 
The court granted an injunction restraining Sunnymac and Mr McIntosh from acting as an estate agent in any way, including in any statements or advertising. 
Consumers are strongly encouraged to deal only with licensed estate agents when buying or selling property.
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CAV public warning on Craig McIntosh over real estate transactions

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Australia's apartment market is self-correcting with fewer projects in the pipeline, according to Andrew Schwartz, the co-founder and managing director of real estate investment firm, Qualitas.
But it won't crash, Schwartz suggests.
He suggested the Australian market had certain qualities that allowed it to self-correct including high levels of migration, a demographic shift towards apartment living and low and stable levels of rental vacancy.
Another key distinction of the local market is the mix of foreign and local buyers.  “Although there has been a lot of concern expressed about the volume of sales to foreign buyers, the Australian banks – again, using very prudent lending standards - have insisted that a maximum of 30% (and often much lower) of total sales could be made to foreign purchasers.   “In addition, we know from our own experience that approximately one-third of all foreign buyers settle using their own cash resources.
"So, even assuming all the remaining foreign purchasers fail to settle - which seems a very harsh assumption - the banks will still have very comfortable levels of security,” Mr Schwartz said.  “Given the high level of pre-sales required upfront, the dominance of local buyers, and the banks’ conservative lending standards, we think it’s highly unlikely that there would be a rush of bank liquidation sales for apartments.  “There could be a short period where there is some market excess, but overall, we continue to see the absorption rates being strong, as evidenced by continuing sales across well-designed projects.  “The demographics also continue to weigh in favour of residential apartments – including an ageing population seeking to downsize, an influx of offshore students, and continued high levels of immigration,” Mr Schwartz said.
The boutique lender, which was founded in 2008, has financed or invested in $3.5 billion worth of real estate projects, mostly apartment projects.
He anticipated any potential apartment over supply would be short-lived. 
"By 2020, prices will have risen, especially in Sydney and Melbourne, to support a new round of much-needed development projects," he said.
"However, we do see some warnings on the horizon for the short term. This includes increased supply concentrated into specific precincts across Australia, fully priced site values, rising construction costs, lower levels of available construction finance, and curbs on loans to foreign purchasers and additional taxes for this group," he said.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Australian apartment market won't crash: Qualitas

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Matt McCann, the former CEO of Australian product comparison websites iSelect and Compare the Market, has joined the online real estate business LocalAgentFinder, reports The Australian Financial Review.
LocalAgentFinder, a privately owned company, is preparing for an initial public offering in the first half of 2017.
It is expected to seek about another $20 million to $30 million in equity.
The company told shareholders that McCann's experience in corporate finance and in operating high-growth companies made him an ideal choice to lead the company's next phase of growth.
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LocalAgentFinder apppoints Matt McCann

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The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has issued a draft determination proposing to deny authorisation to Property Media Group Pty Ltd (PMG).
PMG is seeking to collectively bargain and boycott suppliers of online and print real estate advertising, including realestate.com.au and domain.com.au.
PMG made the application for authorisation on behalf of itself and 170 real estate agents ranging from individual agents to representatives of large franchise groups.
“While the ACCC considers that collective bargaining and boycott action can be in the public interest in certain circumstances, we are not satisfied that the conduct proposed by PMG would result in significant public benefits,” ACCC Commissioner Roger Featherston said.
“The ACCC is particularly concerned by the potential size and scope of collective bargaining groups and boycott activities, combined with uncertainty about how PMG will ultimately conduct negotiations and implement any boycotts.”
PMG has sought authorisation for the conduct because it sees realestate.com.au and domain.com.au as having significant market power, charging excessive prices and essentially forcing real estate agents on to premium contracts.
However the ACCC considers that while realestate.com.au and domain.com.au have some market power, there is evidence of competition, both between each other and from other small and mid-tier players. The ACCC also received information which shows that real estate agents can and do enter into a diversity of contracts and listing types, including within the same region.
The ACCC is now seeking submissions from Property Media Group and interested parties in relation to its draft determination, before making a final decision, expected in October 2016.
Background
PMG seeks authorisation for proposed Australia-wide collective bargaining and boycott arrangements, which will commence within regions of Victoria. In particular, PMG seeks authorisation on behalf of a large number of real estate agents and franchisors of real estate groups to collectively negotiate terms, conditions and fees with any suppliers of online or print residential real estate advertising in Australia.
It also seeks authorisation for agents to boycott realestae.com.au or domain.com.au in certain circumstances.  A collective boycott involves two or more competitors agreeing not to acquire goods or services from a target supplier. In this case, PMG has indicated that a boycott may include agents agreeing not to acquire premium property listings, or participating agents in a region agreeing not to enter into contracts with a real estate platform. However, PMG would have broad discretion to select what kind of boycott activities for real estate agents to engage in, including the possibility of a national boycott of a real estate advertising platform by all of the participating real estate agents. 
The ACCC is now seeking submissions from Property Media Group and interested parties in relation to its draft determination, before making a final decision, expected in October 2016.
Further information, including a copy of the draft decision, is available from the ACCC’s Public Register: <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://registers.accc.gov.au/content/index.phtml/itemId/1195336/fromItemId/278039" target="_blank">Property Media Group Pty Ltd - Authorisation - A91537 &amp; A91538</a>
Authorisation provides immunity from court action for conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under the competition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act (2010).
About the authorisation process:
<ul>
<li>Generally, the ACCC can grant authorisation if it is satisfied that the public benefit from the conduct outweighs any public detriment, including any lessening of competition.</li>
<li>The ACCC is required to publish a draft decision (‘determination’) in relation to an application. This is usually 3–4 months after receiving an application.</li>
<li>The ACCC will conduct public consultation with interested parties both before and after a draft determination.</li>
<li>The ACCC will generally release its final decision (‘determination’) 5–6 months after receiving an application.</li>
</ul>
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ACCC denies PMG collective bargaining boycott on property website ads 

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Real estate firm Laing+Simmons Parramatta has raised some $3000 for medical research in the first month of its campaign as part of its 21st birthday celebrations. 
From every property sold from July to the end of the year, $300 will be donated to the Westmead Medical Research Foundation.
Ray Fayad, group principal said with five months to go he expects this amount will increase dramatically as sales are boosted by the recent interest rate cut combined with the seasonal spring increase in property market activity.
“Buyer demand for western Sydney property remains strong and our vendors are taking their properties to market with confidence, while also helping us to do our bit for an important cause,” he said.
“They make a real difference to people in need of care and their families, and we’re delighted to be able to support their work as our way of acknowledging our 21 year association with the area.”
The money raised will go towards critical care and research. 
 
For more information, click <a href="https://www.wmrf.org.au%20" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>
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