A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Realestate.com.au

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REA Group have announced the departure of Realestate.com.au chief executive Tracey Fellows, who will become the president of News Corp's global digital real estate based in New York.
She will start her new role early next year and will be responsible for driving strategy and growth across all of News Corp’s digital real estate interests.
Over her tenure, the REA Group share price has gone from $46 to $76, peaking at $94 in June.
Fellows, who took the helm in 2014 having previously been in senior positions at Microsoft and Australia Post, said it has been a privilege working the the team and the board at REA, which has News Corp as its majority shareholder.
“It’s one of the exciting things about the opportunity; it allows me to take on a new challenge while continuing to work alongside these incredible people - all in an industry I am so passionate about," Fellow said.
"I feel very fortunate. There could not be a more exciting time for a role like this.”
Fellows will stay on the REA Group board on behalf of News Corp.
News Corp chief executive Robert Thomson said Fellows is an inspiring leader and is able to bring out the best in teams and individuals.
“Tracey has driven the rapid expansion of the digital real estate business in Australia and Asia and we believe her leadership internationally will ensure that all of our digital property companies realize their extraordinary potential," Thomson said.
“Audiences, revenue and profits at REA Group have all expanded significantly during Tracey’s tenure as CEO. She has been an irrepressible innovator and has led the company into intelligent adjacencies, such as financial services and property data, which have broadened the revenue base and built a platform for future growth.
“We are keen to capitalize on our sterling success in digital real estate by driving even faster growth in our existing businesses, such as realtor.com®, where Ryan O’Hara and his team have successfully transformed the business, and in seeking out new investment opportunities.
"Tracey is the perfect person to deliver on both of those imperatives for our company and our investors.”
Hamish McLennan, chairman of the REA Group board of directors, said REA Group has seen exceptional transformation and growth since Tracey took the helm in 2014.
"She has the extraordinary ability to harness the power of people, technology and data and has built strong cultural and operational foundations that will drive our growth into the future.
"The Board and I are enormously grateful to Tracey for all she has done and wish her every success in her exciting new role and look forward to continuing to work with her.
It's the second major move by a real estate listing website this year.
Earlier this year Domain appointed former <a href="/news/domain-appoints-googles-jason-pellegrino-as-new-ceo">Google managing director Jason Pellegrino</a> after the shock departure of <a href="/news/melbournite-antony-catalanos-shock-departure-from-domain-as-family-demands">Anthony Catalano</a>.
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Tracey Fellows steps down as boss of REA Group

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REA Group have announced a revenue jump despite Sydney listings shrinking over the last three months.
Listings were down eight percent in Sydney and one percent in Melbourne over the three months to September.
There was a three percent decrease in listings nationally in the September quarter.
Melbourne improved in the month of October, seeing a four percent increase in listings, while Sydney continued its downward trajectory at 12 percent less listings.
REA Group's submission to the ASX says "market conditions are not expected to improve in the short term."
They referred to the BIS Oxford forecast that new apartment commencements indicates a continued decline for the remainer of this financial year.
"Listings may be weaker in the lead up to the NSW election in MArch, while the impact of the Federal election is harder to predict," REA Group advised the ASX.
The realestate.com.au app was launched on average 27.2 million times a month during the quarter.
REA Group's revenue grew 17 percent to $221.9 million in the September quarter.
REA Group chief executive Tracey Fellows said the strong results demonstrate, despite tougher market conditions, our customers and consumers are clearly seeing value in the products and experiences we are creating.
"When it is time to buy or sell, Australians recognise they only need to visit one place."
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/11/8/REA-Figures.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/8/REA-Figures.jpg" alt="">
Last month Domain noted in the last financial quarter, Sydney new listings were down 8% and auction volumes down 22%. Melbourne results were 1% and 18% in these respective fields.
 
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Sydney property listings down eight percent: REA Group

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REA Group Limited has announced that realestate.com.au Pty Ltd has entered into an agreement to buy Hometrack Australia Pty Ltd.
The deal, subject to approval by the ACCC, is believed to be around $130 million.
Hometrack Australia is a residential property data company and a subsidiary of Hometrack Data Systems, which is owned by the UK listed ZPG Plc (Zoopla Property Group Plc).
It was only 15 months ago ZPG bought the research analysis business. They spent £120 million ($218 million).
Hometrack provides instant valuations of properties online without the need for a valuer to asses or visit the property.
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The Hometrack Australia management team will continue to be led by CEO Brendan Darcy.
Hometrack Australia is forecast to deliver revenue between $13 million to $15 million and EBITDA between $6 million to $7 million for their financial year ended 30 September 2018. 
There would also be cost synergies realised in the REA business once the Hometrack business is fully integrated into REA’s platforms.
REA Group CEO Tracey Fellows it represented a natural extension for realestate.com.au. 
"The acquisition allows us to deliver more property data and insights to our customers and consumers.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

REA Group seeks to buy Hometrack Australia 

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Estate agent John McGrath is departing the board of the REA Group.
He has been on the board since its 1999 float. He was its chairman for four years until 2007.
McGrath was an early adopter of new technology, instrumental in seeing the digital real estate website eventually succeeding in what had been a sales industry slow to embrace change. In 2000 McGrath convinced Lachlan Murdoch to take equity, in a deal that saved the small internet start-up from a dotcom implosion. Pamela Williams' book, Killing Fairfax noted the two young men had met on the board of the Museum of Contemporary Art Young Patrons group.
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REA Group announced that McGrath will step down from the board on 16 January 2018.
Chairman Hamish McLennan acknowledged McGrath’s service to the Board.
“Mr McGrath’s lengthy contribution to the REA Group has been highly regarded by the board.
"I am particularly grateful for his invaluable industry knowledge.
"He leaves the group with a multi-billion dollar market capitalisation and we wish him the best of luck”. 
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A search for a new independent director is now being undertaken. 
McGrath has been the only board member directly connected to the Australian real estate industry since the 2012 departure of Sam White.
McGrath's final director's interest statement advised he had 146,000 shares which were trading at $74 a share.
McGrath, who began his now listed estate agency in 1988, remains an executive director at the McGrath group.
The REA Group's humble beginnings in 1995 was a garage in Doncaster, in the Eastern suburbs of Melbourne, as noted in Killing Fairfax: Packer, Murdoch and the Ultimate Revenge by Pamela Williams, published by HarperCollins in 2013.
Martin Howell and Karl Sabljak, who had been working at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) as computer systems administrators, registered the realestate.com.au URL in August 1995.
In August 1999 Andrew Barnes oversaw negotiations for Macquarie Bank to to buy a controlling stake of 51 per cent for just under $1 million.
With Andrew Barnes as chairman, and 15 million shares issued at 50¢, realestate.com.au was admitted to the Australian Stock Exchange in December 1999.  
While it opened at $1.50 a share in December, 1999, it was trading between 15¢ and 20¢ in 2000.
On November 30, 2000, News Limited announced it had invested cash of $2.25 million in realestate.com.au, plus advertising, marketing and other contra for a total investment worth $10.75 million in the deal negotiated by Lachlan Murdoch.
In 2013, Rupert Murdoch expressed his delight at having its REA investment.
"And I don’t remember Lachlan even asking me about it,” he added.
News Limited took an initial 44 per cent stake with an option to acquire a further 10 million shares over the next five years.
Macquarie Bank would remain a shareholder but News would acquire the outstanding amount of Macquarie’s loan facilities. 
The digital website company now has a $9.75 billion market capitalisation. News Limited holds 61 percent.
The Domain website at John Fairfax &amp; Sons was launched in October 1999, four years behind realestate.com.au.
In May 2001 Red Sheriff, a company which audited website traffic statistics, revealed realestate.com.au had shot past Fairfax’s domain.com.au with more visitors to its site. 
"Horrifyingly for Fairfax, domain.com.au had fallen to second place," Pam Williams wrote.
"It was a moment in time when the advertising world that had been comprehensively dominated by Fairfax showed its first cracks," she wrote.
Now listed separately, Domain's market cap is $1.9 billion.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

John McGrath exits REA Group board after 18 year stint

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More than one-third of Australians have no interest in getting to know their neighbours, according to a recent study by realestate.com.au.
The same survey said that 15 per cent said they go out of their way to avoid speaking to a neighbour, while one in five revealed they’d previously had a dispute with someone living in their street.
Realestate.com.au executive general manager of Residential, Andrew Rechtman, said the findings showed that for the most part Ramsay Street really is more fiction than fact.
“The results are somewhat surprising when you consider Australians are known for their relaxed and friendly nature, but it seems that doesn’t always extend to our neighbours. We need to take a leaf out of Ramsay Street,” he said.
“We know that when people are searching for a home one of the first questions they ask is – what are the neighbours like and what will my neighbourhood be like? Good neighbours can make or break a street, which is why understanding and getting insights on a potential neighbourhood can often give a buyer the confidence to make an offer on a house.” 
Survey key findings:
•More than a third of Australians don’t have any interest in getting to know their neighbours (37 per cent);
•15 per cent of Australians go out of their way to avoid speaking to neighbours;
•One in 10 admits to spying on a neighbour (10 per cent);
•One in five Australians has had a dispute with a neighbour (20 per cent);
•More than one in 10 uses their neighbour’s bin without asking them (11 per cent).
“Stronger neighbourhood relationships foster a deeper sense of community and a greater support network. We know that more connected neighbours can lead to safer communities, as residents are more inclined to look out for one another,” Rechtman said.
There was not a major difference in responses between capital city dwellers and those living in regional/rural areas. Responses were also similar between age groups, the survey revealed.
“The common perception is that older Australians have stronger relationships with their neighbours than younger people, but it seems that isn’t the case. Baby Boomers are avoiding their neighbours just as much as Gen Y,” Rechtman said. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Australians not so neighbourly: realestate.com.au study  

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Recent moves by the REA Group and Domain into the broking space will likely not be a smooth journey for the property search websites, according to senior executives of two mortgage fintechs.
Realestate.com.au recently acquired an 80% controlling stake in mortgage broking franchise Smartline and announced a partnership with lending major NAB. Meanwhile, the Fairfax-owned Domain Group said it is set to launch Domain Loan Finder, in partnership with mortgage platform Lendi.
Founder and CEO of online brokerage uno., Vince Turner told The Adviser said while the moves by Domain and REA’s realestate.com.au site were “logical”, the companies could face “challenges” in the mortgage business.
“These guys have a lot of eyeballs, a big audience, and their traditional line of business in terms of advertising [such as website advertising via cost per click] is now going into the nominal value territory. They are not on the way out yet, but they will be soon,” said Turner.
“So, from Domain or REA’s point of view, they have to think what their transactions are that they can monetise … So, you can see why they want to get into transactional mortgages, that’s the logical part.”
But he said it was a challenge from both a cultural and customer perspective.
“You could argue that it’s pretty hard to get out of bed in the morning and be a media company [publishing company Fairfax owns Domain] and a financial services company.”
Online brokerage HashChing CEO Mandeep Sodhi said the new moves from Domain and realestate.com.au could upset the market as these have been traditionally seen as helpful, independent websites for consumers to research their home or investment property. 
Sodhi said their partnerships with mortgage broking platforms could restrict choice in the market.
“Pushing borrowers to one group of brokers – who may not have access to all the banks and lenders – means they could unwittingly miss out on home loan products that better suit their needs.”
Sochi added that brokers could be negatively affected, as the two sites had historically been “strong sources for generating leads for aggregators to date” and brokers who are not members of the partnered mortgage broking platforms would now have to look for new lead sources.
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REA and Domain's move into broking space won't be easy, say fintechs

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Property search platforms realestate.com.au and domain.com.au are poised to enter the broking space.
Domain Loan Finder is set to launch in early July, teaming up with Lendi, it announced today.
Lendi managing director, David Hyman, said he was looking forward to bringing an integrated home loan experience to the property buying process.
“With more and more consumers turning to online channels as part of their home loan research, there’s a huge opportunity to enhance that journey with contextual and relevant engagement as they progress through the property buying journey.”
Domain Loan Finder will operate as a joint venture with Lendi’s parent entity, Auscred Pty Ltd, with Domain holding a 60% stake.
The amount invested in the JV remains confidential.
Lendi started in 2013 as an online and phone-based broking business backed by major institutional investors and venture capital.
Realestate.com.au recently acquired an 80% controlling stake in mortgage broking franchise Smartline. 
And earlier this year Realestate.com.au and lending major NAB announced they were building a realestate.com.au-branded mortgage broking business for launch later this year as the online platform looks to cash in on the 5.9 million unique visitors a month to its website.
Tracy Fellows, CEO of owner REA Group, said the partnership was a vote of confidence in broking. 
“We’re excited to be partnering with NAB to build a new mortgage broking solution. The way people want to look for and buy property is changing. We want to make it easier for Australians to access the help and experience of a mortgage broker through the digital channels they’re already using to find their new home.”
The REA Group said consumers would have access to a “broad panel of lenders, including NAB home loans and a realestate.com.au branded white label product.” 
Smartline will keep its branding and continue to operate under its current management, who retain a 19.7% share in the business for at least the next three years, the MPA said.
“We’re delivering on our promise to simplify property search and financing by offering genuine choice when it comes to finding the right home loan,” REA Group’s executive director of Financial Services Andrew Russell said.
It was not clear whether Smartline brokers will get access to leads from realestate.com.au. 
REA Group said “we will be working with Smartline to explore how both businesses can leverage each other’s scale and capability for the longer term.”
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Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au launching home loan broking services

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The most viewed properties on realestate.com.au in 2016 were dream homes near the beach or million dollar mansions with water views.
Size and price seemed to be a key factor when it came to property voyeurism.
A Mermaid Beach Queensland offering headed the top 10 most viewed properties on realestate.com.au from 1 January to 30 November 2016.
1. Mermaid Beach, QLD
The most viewed home on realestate.com.au this year was a Mermaid Beach property designed by architect Bayden Goddard.
The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/122480410" target="_blank">large home</a> has six bedrooms, six bathrooms, along with luxury features such as a steam room, a garage for 11 cars, a double height glass atrium and a teppanyaki pavillion.
he 2833 square metre beachfront sold for $25 million in October.
It has been viewed more than 445,061 times. 
Tidemark was the Mermaid Beach home of the Billabong executive Scott Perrin.
It sold to the Caulfield Rich Lister Manny Stul, the owner of the company behind the Shopkins toy craze, and wife, Jaqui.
He was the first Australian to be named Ernst &amp; Young World Entrepreneur of the Year.
Stul is the executive chairman of Melbourne-based Moose Enterprises.
Selling agent Michael Kollosche said the sale was the culmination of five months marketing.
A Chinese buyer had agreed in June to pay $27.8 million but the deal faltered on foreign investment issues.
The Perrin price is not a record residential sale for the Gold Coast.
In 2008 BreakFree founder Tony Smith sold an uncompleted mansion in Hedges Avenue to later-failed internet whiz Daniel Tzvetkoff for $27 million.
2. Rose Bay, NSW
Designed by Peter Janks and David Walker, this <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://realestate.com.au/121975122" target="_blank">five-bedroom home</a> offers views of Sydney Harbour along with a large pool, home cinema, sauna, garage for eight cars and a gym.
<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/2016/12/22/House-2.jpg" alt="">
The trophy home remains on the market. The 19 Bayview Hill Road offering is the harbour side mansion of billionaire Brett Blundy who bought the home in 2013 for $33 million and settled in February this year before relisting it in the same month.
Currently on the market with Pillinger Double Bay and co-agency McGrath's Hamish Robertson, the home had initially hit the market in February with hopes of $45 million.
3. Adelaide, SA
A 1890s Victorian Gothic home in Adelaide that retains heritage features was the third most viewed. It is for sale at $4.75 million.
St Corantyn, an old time, but now restored Adelaide CBD trophy home, overlooks Victoria Park. It has been the home to some noteworthy South Australians, including the late 1920s Lord Mayor, Sir John Boynthon.
The 1890s East Terrace house, once known as Eothen, was listed by Discount City Carpets managing director Martin Williams and his wife Gill.
They paid $802,888 for the property in 1993 and are selling after some two decades of renovations.
It has six bedrooms, four bathrooms, a grand hall, billiard room with bar, home office, gym, outdoor kitchen and a spa. All thoroughly modern that when it was built by architect George Klewitz Soward for his sister and her husband.
Listing agent Steve Meins of Ouwens Casserly Adelaide suggested city land can be around $3000 per sqm, which places the 1727 sqm land value alone at around $5.2 million.
It comes with the ornate plaster roses, leadlight bay windows, hand-carved timber detailing and high ceilings at 263 East Terrace.
<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/2016/12/22/House-3.jpg" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-adelaide-122554626" target="_blank">property</a> has been modernised and now includes contemporary features such as an outdoor kitchen.
4.  Warrandyte, VIC
A Warrandyte <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/122831914" target="_blank">trophy home</a> sold for $3.35 million through Barry Plant in August. Its location enjoys convenient access to well-regarded local schools, bus transport, Warrandyte eateries, The Pines Shopping Centre, the Eastern Freeway and Yarra River bike paths.
<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/2016/12/22/House-4.jpg" alt="">
The five-bedroom, six-bathroom home with a floating staircase, open plan living and a large pool also has floor-to-ceiling windows which make the most of the picturesque views.
5. Sovereign Islands, QLD
Coming in at number five, was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-sovereign+islands-122269482" target="_blank">Sovereign Islands home</a>, Villa Blue Waters that was a finalist on Foxtel's Australia's best home series.
<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/2016/12/22/House-5.jpg" alt="">
The six-bedroom home comes with nine bathrooms along with a garage for at least eight cars, a home cinema with candy bar, a custom-made glass elevator, granite cocktail bar and a teppanyaki cabana.
This 1950 square metre property is still on the market having been listed in 2015. 
It's the glamourous Paradise Point property last bought for $3.45 million in 2013 from Christian Ainsworth.
Villa Blue Waters had previously traded in 2010 for $7.2 million when sold by Gary McPherson.
With a 1950 sqm waterfront holding, the estate boasts a 64 metre straight line private marina frontage and a 70 metre super yacht marina berth, the largest in Queensland.
The are nine bathrooms and five kingsize bedrooms.
The property features a Versace Italian mosaic hydrotherapy room, a Turkish plunge spa and a waterfront gymnasium.
There's a floating helipad for those celebrity landings that presumably rattles the Swarovski crystal chandeliers. 
6. Hamilton, QLD
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hamilton-122160486" target="_blank">Ruhamah</a> is a charming Queenslander at Hamilton in Brisbane with modern touches that is now for sale through Sotheby's International for the first time in over 25 years.
<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/2016/12/22/House-6.jpg" alt="">
The six-bedroom home sits on a 4258 square metre block and includes two formal dining rooms, a billiards room, chandeliers, pressed-metal ceilings, a kitchen and butler’s pantry, tennis court, pool and underground parking for seven cars.
7. Henley Beach, SA
This <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/121933550" target="_blank">charming home</a> looks like a classic Adelaide sandstone on the outside but includes a modern extension out the back with a contemporary pool and entertaining area.
<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/2016/12/22/House-7.jpg" alt="">
There is a large cellar with a glass roof that can be viewed from above in the large open-plan kitchen and living area at the back of the property at 490 Seaview Road.
The four-bedroom Henley Beach home sold for $1.45 million in September through Toop &amp; Toop.
8. Ascot, QLD
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-ascot-122627518" target="_blank">designer home</a> in Ascot sat 8th on the list. Perched high on Bartley's Hill, 10 Morgan Street was designed for the current owners by Brisbane architect James Forbes. It is listed through Matt Lancashire at Ray White New Farm.
<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/2016/12/22/House-8.jpg" alt="">
Set over three levels, this five-bedroom home sits on a 912 square metre block.
9. Ascot, QLD
Another in Ascot, a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/27-sutherland-ave-ascot-qld-4007" target="_blank">six-bedroom home</a> sold in March for $8.6 million.
<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/2016/12/22/House-9.jpg" alt="">
The Hamptons-style home has an outdoor kitchen and entertaining area next to the large pool and spa.
10 Brighton, VIC
Rounding out the top 10 list was a recently built chateau-style <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-122729070" target="_blank">home</a> in the bayside Melbourne suburb of Brighton. It came with the limestone, chandeliers and manicured garden areas, but has struggled to find a buyer.
<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/2016/12/22/House-10.jpg" alt="">
The luxury five-bedroom home sits on an 1182sqm block at 10 Glyndon Avenue.
It was the 10th most viewed property on realestate.com.au in 2016 with more than 280,980 views. It remains listed through Sotheby's International.
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Realestate.com.au's most viewed home listings of 2016 revealed

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National Australia Bank (NAB) and realestate.com.au have announced a five year partnership aimed at combining the property search with securing finance.
“By partnering with NAB, we are building a truly innovative solution that will marry property search and property finance,” said Tracey Fellows, CEO of REA Group, which operates realestate.com.au.
“We will be assisting home buyers throughout their entire property journey, whether it be buying, renting, investing or selling.”
Anthony Cahill, COO at NAB, said that the partnership would combine online property searching and home lending in a manner unseen both nationally and globally.
“We’re combining our respective expertise to deliver more to Australian property buyers and create a game-changing experience,” he said.
With the partnership just announced, details on the exact products to be offered have yet to be announced.
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Realestate.com.au website partners with NAB to offer home loans

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Realestate.com.au have launched Energy Scores, which will for the first time give properties in Australia their own energy efficiency rating.
The tool will give property seekers an indication of how energy efficient their next home could be.
It allows homeowners to better understand energy usage, associated costs and where they could potentially reduce their energy expenditure.
There is also the option for Australians to ‘claim’ their own home, either as an owner or renter, and input more information about their own energy usage to refine the score.
Refined Energy Scores provide users with a more detailed breakdown and analysis of their own energy usage habits.
<img src="/images/2016/11/22/Screen%20Shot%202016-11-22%20at%2011.25.46%20AM.png" alt="">
As energy costs continue to rise across Australia, 76 percent of realestate.com.au users surveyed recently say they are concerned about the cost of electricity, while 79% state that they are actively trying to conserve energy as much as they can1.
To create Energy Scores, realestate.com.au partnered with Tendril, a global expert in data analytics and home energy modelling.
REA Group chief digital officer Henry Ruiz said they know the important of energy efficiency in the home.
"We know that being energy efficient is essential to running any household, and yet it's something we don't often think about other than when we're paying our bills," he said.
"We’re working towards providing a rich view of every property on realestate.com.au.
"Energy Scores may offer deeper insights into the energy efficiency of a property, helping Australians make more educated decisions on their next purchase or rental, or even improve the home they already live in.”
Hunter Albright, Tendril senior vice president of new markets said the company are excited to work with realestate.com.au on this global first.
"We think this approach will provide an engaging experience while educating people on how their homes use energy and the steps they can take to be more efficient," he said.
“Realestate.com.au Energy Scores will enable consumers to better understand energy usage, potential running costs and how to implement potential energy savings.”
To sign up for Energy Scores <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property" target="_blank">click here.</a>
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