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

Staff Writer

Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

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

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

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

Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

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

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

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

AVID launches final apartments at The Rathbone, Surry Hills

Record

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National housing values reached a record high over January, as 0.9 per cent gains took values higher than the previous September 2017 peak, according to property data firm CoreLogic.

CoreLogic's monthly home value index found every capital recorded dwelling value growth over the first month of 2021. Housing values are now one per cent above pre-COVID levels and 0.7 per cent higher than September 2017's record high.

Sydney and Melbourne were the weakest of the capital cities over January, posting modest 0.4 per cent gains.

Darwin continued to be the national market leader, up another 2.3 per cent to be 6.6 per cent up over the quarter. Perth and Hobart each saw a 1.6 per cent rise in dwelling values, followed by Canberra who were up 1.2 per cent and Brisbane and Adelaide both up 0.9 per cent.

<img alt="" height="713" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cl_index_january_2021.jpg" width="1200">

CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless says the largest capital city markets are seeing property in the state's regional areas vastly outperform the capital.

Home values across regional Victoria jumped 1.6 per cent over January compared to the 0.4 per cent in Melbourne, with regional New South Wales posting 1.5 per cent gains compared to 0.4 per cent in Sydney.

“Internal migration data shows more people are leaving Sydney and Melbourne for regional areas, resulting in a transition of activity from the metro regions to the outer fringe and regional markets," Lawless said.

"This demographic trend is further compounded by the demand shock of stalled overseas migration.

"As Melbourne and Sydney historically receive the vast majority of overseas migrants, these metro areas have been the hardest hit by this demand shock.”

Since the onset of COVID-19 in March last year, regional housing values have surged 6.5% higher while capital city housing values are down -0.2% over the same time frame.

“Better housing affordability, an opportunity for a lifestyle upgrade and lower density housing options are other factors that might be contributing to this trend, along with the new found popularity of remote working arrangements," Lawless added.

 
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Housing values are now one per cent above pre-COVID levels and 0.7 per cent higher than September 2017's record high.

Australian housing values reach record high: CoreLogic

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EXPERT OBSERVER
With many of Australia’s capital city housing markets posting a gain in values over the past three months, a recovery trend is looking increasingly entrenched… but how long will it take for residential property values to reach a new record high if the current rate of growth continues?
If housing values continue to rise at the same rate recorded over the past three months, national dwelling values could reach a new record high in six months time.
Based on CoreLogic’s Home Value Index, national dwelling values remained 5.7% below their peak at the end of October. With values rising by 2.9% over the past three months (averaging a rise of just under 1% per month), it would take approximately 6 months for housing values to return to their historic high.
Most of Australia’s capital cities have recorded a rise in dwelling values over the past three months, with the only exceptions being Perth and Darwin, where values have been trending lower since mid-2014. While values continue to reduce, housing affordability is continuing to improve and buying opportunities are becoming more plentiful.
The same can’t be said of Hobart and Canberra which are the two capitals where housing values are already at new record highs.
Hobart values recorded only a mild correction of 1.3% from peak to trough, with the market reaching a new record high in October 2019.
Similarly, Canberra housing values recorded a peak to trough decline of only 1.5% during the downturn, and moved through a new record high in September this year.
Across the remaining capital cities, Melbourne is on track to stage a full recovery the earliest. If the current run rate of growth continues, Melbourne’s housing market will recover in January. During the correction, Melbourne housing values fell by 11.1% from peak to trough and remained 5.8% below their peak in October.
Dwelling values across Melbourne’s Inner precinct were only 1.5% below their peak in October, and this subregion is on track set a new valuation benchmark by the end of November; the earliest of any of Melbourne’s sub-regions. Despite the earlier recovery period across the Inner precinct of Melbourne, the prestigious Inner East is recording the fastest rate of growth, with values up 8.3% over the past three months and on track for a recovery within three months.
Brisbane is showing the next fastest recovery time frame; not because values are rising rapidly, but mostly because the correction in values across Brisbane was quite shallow (down 2.9% from peak to trough). The past three months of gains (+1.1% or 0.4% per month) has put Brisbane housing values on a path to recover within the next 4 months.
Sydney’s housing market is on track to post a recovery within six months, or around April next year if the current pace of growth continues. Housing values are trending higher rapidly, up 5.0% over the past three months, however the correction was more substantial across Sydney, with housing values falling by 14.9% from peak to trough. Sydney dwelling values remained 10.4% below their 2017 peak at the end of last month.
The recovery trajectory in Adelaide is looking more drawn out, with values rising at the quarterly rate of only 0.1%. Although housing values are down only 1.2% since peaking, such a sluggish rate of appreciation is likely to see a prolonged recovery phase. Despite what looks to be a long recovery period, two of Adelaide’s sub-regions have already reached new record housing values. Both the North and South of Adelaide posted a new record high for housing values in October this year.
A recovery in the housing market should help to provide some support for Australian economic conditions, boosting household wealth which will potentially lead to improved confidence and a greater willingness from households to spend, while also supporting the residential building and development sector where dwelling approvals have tanked.
On the flipside, for non-home owners, a recovery in housing values implies the affordability dividends provided by the recent housing downturn are now a thing of the past. With housing values rising rapidly in some areas, we could see less first home buyer participation in the market as affordability pressures start to dampen activity across this important sector of the market.
TIM LAWLESS is the CoreLogic Head of Research
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tlawless-5VLUrbAk9s

How long until housing values reach a new record high? Tim Lawless

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The Newtown residential house price record has been smashed with only the inner west suburb's second sale over $5 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-newtown-131115386" target="_blank">Australia Street warehouse conversion</a> had been on the market for around two and a half years, having initially sought $7.5 million back in April 2018.
Property Observer understands the mystery buyer, who engaged their solicitor to handle the purchase, will be gutting the home.
Set behind its original facade, the Roman redesigned warehouse spans two levels with almost 900 sqm of internal and external living space.
<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/2020/9/14/Newtown%203.jpg" alt="">
It was originally built as a baker in the early 20th century.
The focal point of the home is the central courtyard and swimming pool, which opens from the six metre gourmet kitchen, dining and living space.
<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/2020/9/14/Newtown%202.jpg" alt="">
There are six bedrooms upstairs, including a king-size master suite with walk in wardrobe and ensuite, as well as a second living area and a library.
The Agency's Brad Gillespie secured the sale on behalf of longtime owners Bob Miller and his wife Gay, who paid $650,000 for the home on 510 sqm in 1994. 
It topples the previous record, set by The Agency's Ben Collier last year.
He sold the former Masonic Hall on Station Street for artist Tom Arthur and wife Sandra for $5.05 million.
It was bought WiseTech Global exec Brett Shearer.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Newtown record smashed with $5.8 million sale

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Lender loans.com.au has introduced a record low discounted variable rate of 1.99%, available for one year before it reverts to 2.57%.
The move comes less than one month after Tasmanian customer owned bank, Bank of Us introduced fixed rates of 1.99%.
With loans.com.au’s new lowest variable rate of 1.99% only available for one year, Canstar has compared the interest paid over the 30 year life of the loan between the new offer and the current lowest variable rate of 2.19%.
The analysis reveals that taking out the introductory offer of 1.99% would see borrowers with lower monthly repayments for 12 months though it will cost $25,517 more in interest over the life of the loan (assuming the rate differential stays the same). 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/7/23/Canstar%20July%2023.JPG" alt="">
Canstar's finance expert, Steve Mickenbecker said,“just last month we saw fixed rates crack the 2% barrier, with variable rates now following suit, albeit with an introductory rate that moves higher after 12 months.”
“The four minute mile of home loans, a rate below 2%, was broken last month and with the barrier broken we are now seeing fast followers.
“We saw how quickly the competition moved below 3% once that record fell, so a rate below 2% could soon become the qualifying rate to be competitive.
“A rate below 2% could make a big difference to homeowners’ hip pockets each month, but borrowers have to be prepared for a higher monthly repayment when the 12 month introductory period expires, even though the ongoing rate is competitive.
“Switching from the average variable rate of 3.44% to a rate of 1.99% on an average $400,000 loan could put $307 per month or over $3,600 back into borrowers wallets in just the first year,” he concluded.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

A second record low 1.99% home loan has arrived

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REIV President Leah Calnan says the Victorian Property Market achieved record-breaking growth prior to the outbreak of Coronavirus.
During the March Quarter metropolitan, houses soared to a new record height, eclipsing $890,000 for the first time, a 3.7 % growth on the previous December 2019 quarter.
Metropolitan Units followed this strong trend reaching over $640,000.
Records were smashed in the Outter Melbourne region with both Houses and units reaching new high values.
While Inner and Middle Melbourne, the price of units grew to new heights and even outperformed the growth of houses in those regions.
Growth continued evenly across regional Victoria with gains in both units and houses. Greater Bendigo has fared very well featuring five suburbs in the list of top 20 suburbs for quarterly growth for regional Victoria.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/4/24/Melb%201.JPG" alt="">
REIV President Leah Calnan said the March Quarterly Medians shows that the Victorian property juggernaut was in peak form before the outbreak of Covid-19
“2020 has been an amazing year for real estate; property values have reached new heights across the state during January, February and March.” Ms Calnan said.
“Investors in the Victorian property will be thrilled with these figures, units and houses have soared in value; our market is in red hot form.”
“Our local market is strong and resilient; buyers from across the globe are have shown great interest in Victoria.”
“Everybody wants to get in on the action; we were regularly getting over 1000 homes sold at auction over a weekend, competition for houses in Victoria remains strong.”
“In chaotic times such as we are battling now, it is a much welcome relief to be able to see some good news, Victorian real estate is in great condition.”
“Our industry is strong, and we will survive Coronavirus, the desire for Victorian real estate is high when this over we look forward to more fantastic results,” she concluded.
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Victorian property market was in peak form pre-coronavirus: REIV

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Across the combined capital cities, there is currently 5.3 months of housing supply available for sale.
If no more properties were advertised for sale it would take 5.3 months for current advertised supply to be purchased.
For this time of year, this is the highest months of supply figure any time since 2012.
To put the figure into context, at the same time last year there was a much lower 3.9 months of supply.
The lift in months of supply is a function of a lift in the amount of stock available for sale and the ongoing fall in transaction volumes.
The months of supply metric measures the volume of stock advertised for sale against the run rate of settled sales.
The result, expressed in months, provides an indication about how long it would take the market to absorb all the residential properties that are advertised for sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%201.JPG" alt="">
Currently, there is 4.1 months of housing stock available for sale in Sydney.
Although this still may seem like quite a low supply of stock for sale, in comparison to the previous seven years, the months of supply figure is now the highest it has been at this time of year any time over that period.
Months of supply is elevated due to much lower transaction volumes and an elevated volume of stock for sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%202.JPG" alt="">
In Melbourne there is currently 5.9 months of housing supply for sale.
Although that figure has reduced slightly over recent weeks, it is still currently higher than over the same period during any of the previous seven years.
Much like Sydney, a much slower rate of sale and much higher stock for sale has led to the heightened supply.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%203.JPG" alt="">
There is currently 5.9 months of housing supply for sale in Brisbane, which is the highest for this time of year since 2012.
The elevated volume of stock for sale coupled with falling transaction volumes are the factors driving the heightened supply.
Although stock is elevated relative to recent years it has been fairly steady at 5.9 months over recent weeks
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%204.JPG" alt="">
Months of supply in Adelaide is trending higher, transaction volumes are steady if not slightly higher than a year ago however, the volumes of stock for sale is much higher.
There is currently 3.8 months of supply on the market and although that figure is lower than most other capital cities it is slightly higher than at the same time last year (3.7 months).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%205.JPG" alt="">
The ongoing weak housing conditions in Perth whereby values and transaction volumes continue to fall and stock for sale mounts has led to further increases in months of supply.
At 7.7 months of supply, supply is the highest it has been at this time of year, any year since 2012.
7.7 months of supply is also one of the highest amongst all capital cities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%206.JPG" alt="">
A major contributor to the surge in dwelling values in Hobart over recent years has been the lack of stock for sale.
More recently, the volume of stock for sale has risen however, it remains quite low reflected by the fact there is just 2.8 months of supply on the market currently.
Although that figure is low, it is higher than at the same time last year (2.0 months) and 2017 (2.7 months) but it remains much lower than previous years.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%207.JPG" alt="">
The months of supply for sale in Darwin is higher than any other capital city at 9.0 months.
Darwin has a high supply of stock for sale and low rate of sale resulting in the high months of supply.
Despite the high figure, it is actually lower than it was at the same time of year for each of the past three years.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%208.JPG" alt=""> 
Canberra currently has 3.6 months of housing supply advertised for sale.
Although that is a comparatively low figure, months of supply in Canberra hasn’t been as high as it is currently since 2013.
Like most other capital cities, months of supply is elevated due to a heightened volume of stock for sale with sales actually higher than they were 12 months ago.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/5/16/MoS%209.JPG" alt="">
The months of supply figure highlights why the housing market is generally falling.
Credit conditions are tight which means fewer buyers and generally leads to a slower rate of sales.
Although vendors have responded by bringing fewer new properties to the market, total stock for sale remains elevated leading to a heightened months of supply figure.
CAMERON KUSHER is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic
Kusher regularly posts on the <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/taxonomy/corelogic-people/cameron-kusher" target="_blank">CoreLogic website</a>.
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Australian housing supply reaches seven year high: Cameron Kusher

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One of regional New South Wales’ most stately historic manors has sold for $2.15 million.
<a href="http://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=jRYOrR8N39QzG/Nyy8oj1LLoitAzgxBr7RUZbICQ9GnmXJi34Z7r2YdPK/H5V+ifO1VLKjZA45tsQTIf/pNXfKDhK+4yRRVaKl9RfjnywceksNafShs6MpQJuwp4dMtr&amp;rh=ff004855efa71633f9527e59d94cbd8afeee785a" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Hurstville</a>, an 1861 country house in Goulburn, was offered through Ray White Goulburn agent Justin Gay, who had held the previous regional record of $1.15 million six years ago with a $1.15 million under 4000 square metres.
The buyers were from farming land at Stubbo, just over a four hour drive north of Goulburn, and purchased the property to be closer to family.
“Farming and earth moving is their history,” Gay said.
“Many years ago the gentleman used to stay around the corner in a big boarding house-like accommodation, and fell in love with Hurstville. He was at the auction of the property when it was derelict and sold previously, and had kept his eyes on it over the years.” 
Sydney-based sellers Peter Caucino and Yvonne Aris extensively renovated Hurstville after purchasing it in 2004 from the Anglican Church, when it was six rundown flats.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/3/12/PRINT_img_5306-img_5308-r1.jpg" alt="">
The five-bedroom house, on a 2567 square metre parcel of land, contains formal living rooms, two studies, a wine cellar, garden room and vast entertaining terrace.
The interiors feature chandeliers, fireplaces, bay windows, soaring 3.6 metre ceilings, French doors, marble benchtops and stone floors.
The Victorian Italianate house was designed for Anne Hurst, the widow of the wealthy Methodist Minister, The Reverend Benjamin Hurst, who died in 1857.
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Historic Goulburn manor Hurstville sold for $2.15 million

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The residential house price record at Palm Beach, the popular weekender spot for Sydney's well-heeled, is set to be broken.
There's a guide of $23 million to $25 million for Palm Haven, the vast Barrenjoey Road estate of Phillip Esplin, the late lawyer and founder of Esplins Solicitors.
It's been in the Esplin name since the late 1980s when they spent $900,000 on one block before spending a further $1.3 million next door to create the sprawling 2,075 sqm waterfront property.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/3/11/Esplin2.jpg" alt="">
They commissioned architect Phillip Cox to design the double brick and timber home in 1990. It went on to win the HIA Award for Design and Building Excellence.
Set on the exclusive Illuka laneway, the Australian style home features a number of formal and casual living and dining areas which open to deep verandahs.
It has one of the few tennis courts in the 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/2019/3/11/Esplin3.jpg" alt="">
LJ Hooker Palm Beach agent David Edwards has the listing.
The Palm Beach record stands at $24 million when Gretel Packer secured the family bungalow which was handed to her as part of the breakup of her father, the late media tycoon Kerry Packer's, vast fortune.
The biggest transacted home sale come in 2012 when Kalua, the luxury $22 million property nearby which was bought by car dealer Laurie Sutton in 2012 for the trophy home, Kalua.
Kalua also has a tennis court.
 
 
 
 
 
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Palm Haven at Palm Beach listed with record hopes

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Crest, a luxury Dover Heights new build looking across Sydney Harbour, has been listed with suburb record hopes.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-dover+heights-130653750" target="_blank">modern Raleigh Street home</a> has a guide of $13 million to $14 million. 
The former 1970s home last traded for $4.5 million in 2015 when sold by Giuliano "Jules" Di Bartolomeo, the former chief executive officer of blind and shade manufacturing company Kresta Holdings.
The home on 575 sqm was knocked down and Crest was built, an opulent three level mansion with smart home automation.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/3/6/Raleigh2.jpg" alt="">
Designed to offer views from every angle, Crest's living spaces are wrapped in balconies and alfresco terraces, one opening to an infinity pool with views across the whole of the city and the harbour.
The home's top level is dedicated to four ensuited bedrooms, including a master bedroom with marble adorned ensuite.
The marble kitchen takes centre stage in the entry level living spaces. It features Gaggenau inclusions and gas appliciances plated with gold.
The kitchen, living and dining areas are met with frameless floor to ceiling glass.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/3/6/Raleigh3.jpg" alt="">
The Agency's Matthew Lahood is marketing the home in conjunction with Domain Group's Nick Dellis.
It's set to smash the Dover Heights record set two years ago when 7's <a href="/news/larry-emdur-secures-dover-heights-record-price">Morning Show host Larry Emdur</a> sold his clifftop family home to celebrity accountant Anthony Bell for $11.5 million.
Cresit the second home in a week that's been listed with suburb record hopes.
The Cliff House, the <a href="/news/dover-heights-the-cliff-house-set-for-suburb-record">luxury Dover Heights clifftop home</a>, has been listed with a guide of $11 million to $12 million.
 
 
 
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