<p>The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.</p>

<p>Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.</p>

<p>The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]</p>

<p>Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.</p>

<p>"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.</p>

<p>"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.</p>

<p>"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]</p>

<p>Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.</p>

<p>"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.</p>

<p>"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."</p>

<p>One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.</p>

<p>Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]</p>


Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Joel Robinson

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

<p>For all its prestige, Roseville hasn't seen many new apartment developments that genuinely cater to the suburb's owner-occupier market.</p>

<p>Most new projects on Sydney's North Shore have focused on increasing supply, but Aqualand Prestige's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/boronia-by-aqualand-roseville-2-4-larkin-street-roseville-nsw-2069">Boronia</a> is taking a different approach.</p>

<p>The 111-apartment project on Larkin Street has been designed around a buyer who already knows the area, whether they're downsizing from a nearby family home, upgrading from an older apartment, or moving into the suburb to be closer to schools and transport.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=372391]</p>

<p>Boronia is the first project from Aqualand Prestige, the boutique residential division of Aqualand, the developer behind projects including AURA in North Sydney and Blue at Lavender Bay. The project is being delivered in partnership with Phoenix Property Investors.</p>

<p>Rather than trying to maximise density, the focus has been on creating apartments that feel much closer to a house. There's a strong weighting towards larger three-bedroom residences, alongside a limited collection of four-bedroom duplex-style sky homes, a product that's rarely delivered in apartment projects on the Upper North Shore.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373694]</p>

<p>Architecture firm Woods Bagot has designed the building to sit within Roseville's established tree canopy rather than dominate it. The building steps down the site with deep balconies, generous setbacks and a material palette of masonry and natural stone that reflects the suburb's established character.</p>

<p>"The forms float among the canopies along the Larkin Street ridge to maximise the outlook across the green sea of the treetops," Woods Bagot Principal Jason Fraser said.</p>

<p>"The architecture is deliberately simple and understated, so that the detail, the craftsmanship and, above all, the landscape can be the hero."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]</p>

<p>The same approach continues inside.</p>

<p>Interiors by COX take inspiration from the surrounding bushland of Lane Cove National Park, using natural stone, timber and handcrafted finishes throughout the residences. Kitchens feature Gaggenau and Bosch appliances, while the penthouse collection includes upgraded stone finishes and bespoke detailing.</p>

<p>"We wanted the homes to feel like an urban retreat, where the boundary between inside and out simply dissolves," COX Director Brooke Lloyd said.</p>

<p>Landscape architecture by Ground iNK extends that connection outdoors, with mature tree planting, deep soil landscaping and retained established street trees helping the development blend into one of Sydney's leafiest suburbs.</p>

<p>Residents will also have access to landscaped communal gardens, a wellness centre and outdoor spaces designed more as an extension of their own homes than traditional apartment amenities.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373687]</p>

<p>The location is another reason Aqualand Prestige believes Boronia will resonate with buyers.</p>

<p>Roseville Station is around a five-minute walk away, placing Chatswood just one stop down the line, while the Sydney CBD remains within easy commuting distance. The suburb also sits within the NSW Government's Transport Oriented Development precinct, where planning changes are encouraging more housing around existing rail infrastructure.</p>

<p>Despite those planning reforms, opportunities to secure a new apartment in Roseville remain relatively limited, particularly developments aimed at owner-occupiers rather than investors.</p>

<p>Aqualand Prestige Executive Director Wayne Xiong said Boronia was designed for buyers intending to stay for the long term.</p>

<p>"These are homes built for decades of living rather than for the moment," Xiong said.</p>

<p>"Whether buyers are downsizing, raising a family or simply seeking more space, they're choosing the scale and craftsmanship of a fine house in a suburb they love, with the ease and connectivity modern life calls for."</p>

<p>Boronia's two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.79 million, three-bedrooms from $2.49 million, penthouses from $2.85 million, and four-bedroom duplex-style Sky Homes from $4.5 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152095]</p>


Aqualand Prestige launches Boronia to undersupplied Roseville apartment market

<p>For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.</p>

<p>At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.</p>

<p>It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.</p>

<p>The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.</p>

<p>After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.</p>

<p>In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.</p>

<p>"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.</p>

<p>"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."</p>

<p>The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.</p>

<p>Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.</p>

<p>The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]</p>

<p>The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.</p>

<p>Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.</p>

<p>"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.</p>

<p>"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."</p>

<p>On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.</p>

<p>Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]</p>


Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

<p>For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.</p>

<p>That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.</p>

<p>John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.</p>

<p>"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.</p>

<p>"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]</p>

<p>Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.</p>

<p>The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.</p>

<p>The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]</p>

<p>The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.</p>

<p>Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.</p>

<p>Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]</p>

<p>The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.</p>

<p>Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.</p>

<p>"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.</p>

<p>"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."</p>

<p>He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.</p>

<p>"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]</p>

<p>According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.</p>

<p>"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.</p>

<p>"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."</p>

<p>He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.</p>

<p>"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]</p>


Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

<p>Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.</p>

<p>While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.</p>

<p>A new Colliers report, <em>Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions</em>, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.</p>

<p>The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.</p>

<p>Construction Skills Queensland's <em>Horizon 2032</em> report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.</p>

<p>The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]</p>

<p>Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.</p>

<p>"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.</p>

<p>"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."</p>

<p>Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.</p>

<p>"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]</p>

<p>Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.</p>

<p>Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.</p>

<p>Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.</p>

<p>The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.</p>

<p>Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.</p>

<p>"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.</p>

<p>"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."</p>


Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

Rental Property

<p>It&#39;s time for investors to start thinking differently about their rental properties and marketing them to fit the growing work-from-home trend.</p>

<p>This means adapting to demand and updating your property to match the needs of the young professionals and students who may need study and workspaces to accommodate their new lifestyles.</p>

<p>Urban takes a look at the top tips for creating the ideal study zone in your inner-city investment property.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Tip 1: Find the space</strong></li>
</ul>

<p><img alt="" height="661" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_1693064941.jpg" width="1000" /></p>

<p>Whether it&rsquo;s within a bedroom, a hallway or in a dedicated study, finding the perfect space to modify into a work-from-home study zone is an important first step.</p>

<p>Urban recommends exploiting underutilised &lsquo;dead space&rsquo; &ndash; an alcove or a landing that may fit a small desk or collapsible shelving.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Tip 2: It&rsquo;s all about lighting</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Lighting can have a huge effect on the efficiency of study and work, as well as make your property look bigger and brighter.</p>

<p>It is generally agreed that natural light is best when it comes to general lighting for your home study space, as natural light has been claimed to increase productivity and performance.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If natural light is not possible in your investment property, warm lighting can deliver similar benefits.</p>

<p><img alt="" height="497" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_1482794711.jpg" width="1000" /></p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Tip 3: Set up a brand-new desk</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Standing out from the competition is important when seeking good tenants, so there&rsquo;s no denying that good marketing and some furnishings go a long way, especially in an apartment marketed towards students.</p>

<p>Setting up a brand-new desk lets prospective renters imagine desk space in the home and may even secure more competitive prices for your inner-city apartment.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Tip 4: Add some greenery</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Besides looking beautiful and creating a more welcoming&nbsp;home, research shows that there are numerous&nbsp;benefits to having plants in work zones.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plants have been proven to boost your mood, improve memory, and increase productivity.</p>

<p><img alt="" height="667" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/shutterstock_1575692173.jpg" width="1000" /></p>

<p>Apartments nearby universities, research hubs and numerous employment opportunities are the ideal location for investors to secure their next investment property.</p>

<p>Here are four investor-friendly apartments for sale now in Melbourne.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>1. Melbourne Grand, Melbourne</strong><br />
Address: 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $569,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490 project_image_fid=92412]</p>

<p>Winner of the HIA &lsquo;Victorian apartment complex of the year 2020,&rsquo;&nbsp;Central Equity&rsquo;s Melbourne Grand provides an outstanding living experience.</p>

<p>Less than a kilometre away from Monash University&rsquo;s Parkville campus, investors can secure high-income researchers as well as postgraduate students who will enjoy the apartment&rsquo;s ideal location.</p>

<p>Designed by Guildford Bell and Graham Fisher Architects, Melbourne Grand features various amenities, including resort-style facilities, residents&rsquo; lounge, 17-seat theatre and coffee bar.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>2. Port Lane, Port Melbourne</strong><br />
Address: 201 Williamstown Road, Port Melbourne VIC 3207<br />
Three-bedroom townhomes from $1,025,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=89720 project_image_fid=147505]</p>

<p>Boasting 122 three-bedroom residences, Port Lane offers a quality selection of townhomes in Port Melbourne.</p>

<p>Developed by ID_Land, the coastal community delivers an authentic and distinctive design to sit in harmony with the Port Melbourne community.</p>

<p>Architects&nbsp;Rothelowman&nbsp;and interior designers&nbsp;Hecker Guthrie have designed the home with contemporary palettes and materials.</p>

<p>Curated landscaping by Tract frame the townhomes, with a verdant entrance pergola marking each residents&rsquo; arrival.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>3. Live City, Footscray</strong><br />
Address: 124-188 Ballarat Road, Footscray VIC 3011<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $460,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=3565 project_image_fid=68184]</p>

<p>Backed by developer R&amp;F Property Australia, the new master-planned Live City project comprises 208 residences spread across 14 floors.</p>

<p>Set to deliver over 1,400 apartments across eight buildings, the project brings together a fully-integrated, mixed-use community that&rsquo;s thriving with character and history.</p>

<p>Designed by&nbsp;Elenberg Fraser, each apartment features floor-to-ceiling windows, contemporary interiors and an abundance of natural light.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>4. The Docklands Residences</strong><br />
Address: 3-43 Waterfront Way, Docklands VIC 3008<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $1,050,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=3205 project_image_fid=45291]</p>

<p>Located atop the five-star Marriott Hotel,&nbsp;Docklands&nbsp;Residences provide timeless luxury living in Melbourne&rsquo;s inner-suburbs.</p>

<p>Set atop the five-star Melbourne Marriott Hotel, homeowners of the oversized one, two and three-bedroom&nbsp;Docklands&nbsp;residences will enjoy exclusive hotel membership, access to services and amenities and true luxury living.</p>

<p>Designed by award-winning architects&nbsp;DKO, the unique mixed-use project boasts floor-to-ceilings windows, terraces and a private enclosed glass winter garden.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


It's time for investors to start thinking differently about their rental properties and marketing them to fit the growing work-from-home trend

max.kwok_55688

Investor tips for creating the ideal study zone in your inner-city apartment

<html><body>
<div>Within the Consumer Price Index figures, the ABS produces some very useful quality-adjusted figures on rental price inflation. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The data series shows how rents can rise very fast when investors are spooked out of the market, such as between 1985 and 1987 (changes to tax legislation) and 2008 (global financial crisis).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>When investor activity is high, on the other hand, the growth in rents is likely to be weaker, and this is also the case when low interest rates make buying a home comparatively more attractive than renting. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In this context, nationally annual rental price growth is at its lowest level in more than 22 years, at 0.6 per cent.</div>
<p><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TapbS0WJLJA/WIiHzukMDfI/AAAAAAAAhak/ndXk6_mJwuYkNIMYlgamcTe_ZXRg6mH3QCLcB/s1600/A5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TapbS0WJLJA/WIiHzukMDfI/AAAAAAAAhak/ndXk6_mJwuYkNIMYlgamcTe_ZXRg6mH3QCLcB/s640/A5.jpg" width="640" height="340"></a><br><br>In Perth, annual rental growth has turned negative to the tune of -7.2 per cent.<br><br></p>
<div><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEibKl7v3wA/WIiHzuEUPiI/AAAAAAAAhag/SXTXMTsRc6glPmclKzhWpDZgTpWppJaLgCLcB/s1600/A3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uEibKl7v3wA/WIiHzuEUPiI/AAAAAAAAhag/SXTXMTsRc6glPmclKzhWpDZgTpWppJaLgCLcB/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="352"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<div>Darwin is by some margin the weakest rental market, with rents declining by -8.2 per cent in 2016.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the other side of the ledger, Hobart is the tightest capital city rental market, with quality-adjusted rents increasing by 3.5 per cent in 2016. </div>
<p> </p>
<div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxoHSu6V94w/WIiHzDbkYtI/AAAAAAAAhac/dxkvE9U8dU8nCp-g_SVnqVl0DqN1_KvIgCLcB/s1600/A4.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxoHSu6V94w/WIiHzDbkYtI/AAAAAAAAhac/dxkvE9U8dU8nCp-g_SVnqVl0DqN1_KvIgCLcB/s640/A4.jpg" width="640" height="358"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<div>A look at the long-run figures shows that despite the supply response real rents in both Sydney and Melbourne continued to rise to all-time highs. </div>
<p> </p>
<div><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bBihfkI2e8/WIiH0l1XAdI/AAAAAAAAhao/x9GcxFT-oyogKdHKJnWFu4ENGUXxTHbPQCLcB/s1600/A6.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4bBihfkI2e8/WIiH0l1XAdI/AAAAAAAAhao/x9GcxFT-oyogKdHKJnWFu4ENGUXxTHbPQCLcB/s640/A6.jpg" width="640" height="340"></a></div>
<p> In real terms, at the city level Brisbane rents are certain to move lower in 2017 due to the inner city apartments overbuild. </p>
<p>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</p>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Where capital city rents are falling further in 2017: Pete Wargent

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<p>As expected SQM Research's figures showed vacancy rates declining in August in every capital city, and rents jumping in the big cities. </p>
<p>Hobart's vacancy rate fell to just 0.5 percent, while both Sydney (1.7 percent) and Melbourne tightened (1.9 percent) despite talk of an oversupply.</p>
<p>Asking rents for units were up by +4.5 percent in Melbourne and +4.0 percent over the year to August, suggesting that "landlords are in control of the market" according to SQM. </p>
<p>Vacancy rates also declined in August in Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, and Canberra. </p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/09/23/SQM1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<div id="x_post-body-4621751620857808479" class="x_post-body x_entry-content">
<div class="x_separator"><img src="/images/2016/09/23/SQM1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Smoothing the data on a 4mMA basis shows that Canberra's market has also tightened substantially, with asking rents soaring by +12 percent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The smoothed figures show that Darwin is on the mend, but Perth still has a 5 percent vacancy rate to chew through before rents can rise again. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/09/23/SQM2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> <img src="/images/2016/09/23/SQM2.jpg" alt="">
</div>
<br>According to Louis Christopher of SQM Research:<br><br><div><em>"Sydney is likely to remain a landlords' market, as the city's growing population creates demand for new stock".</em></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Only in one sub-region of Sydney has SQM recorded an increase in advertised vacancies. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p><span><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.</em><br></span></p>
<p><em>His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.</em></p>
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Vacancy rates drop everywhere, big city rents jump

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<p>My housing supply dashboard showed how dwelling completions have been tracking well ahead of population growth in Western Australia. </p>
<p>And now SQM Research has reported that vacancy rates in Perth rose again to 5 per cent in June, in turn suggesting that Perth's property downturn still has a way to run.</p>
<p>Indeed, vacancy rates edged higher in most cities in June, Adelaide and Darwin excepted.</p>
<div id="post-body-1509958214451859734" class="post-body entry-content">
<div> <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/20/B1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/07/20/B1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<br><div>The below chart smooths vacancy rates on a 6mMA basis. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>While not a true reflection of 'trend', since it doesn't account for the higher vacancy rates typically experienced over the Christmas period, it does show that Perth and Darwin have experienced consistently elevated vacancies since the peak of the resources construction boom. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/20/b2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<br><div class="separator"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/07/20/b2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<br><div>Asking rents for houses in Perth have declined by 6 per cent over the past year, while in Darwin the equivalent figure is as high as 11 per cent. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Record apartment completions have taken some heat out of asking rents in Sydney and Melbourne -with Melbourne vacancy rates bouncing off 7-year lows - though apartment rents remain higher year-on-year in both of the most populous capital cities by 3 per cent and 6 per cent respectively.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The average asking rent for a 3-bedroom house in Sydney is now $725/week, and for units the figure is $522/week.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Vacancy rates remain tight in Canberra at 1.2 per cent, and extremely tight in Hobart at 0.7 per cent, leading to soaring rents for houses in the Tasmanian capital.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank"><span class="s2">AllenWargent</span></a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><span class="s2">blogger</span></a>.</span></p>
<p class="p2"><span class="s3"><em>His latest book is </em><a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank"><span class="s2"><em>Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</em></span></a><em>.</em></span></p>
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Perth, Darwin rents still falling

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<div>There's been a fair amount of talk about negatively geared landlords, and whether they might need to sell property during the rental market disruption.<br><br>You should never judge a 20-30 year investment on what's happening right now, but it's nevertheless worth taking a look at the current state of play.<br><br>With the Airbnb sector effectively shuttered at the present time some areas have seen a 5 to 10 per cent jump in rental listings as landlords seek tenants, especially in areas that are generally popular with students, holidaymakers, or short-stay lets.<br><br>With the borders also effectively closed to New Zealanders, tourists from China and India, and international students, there's likely to be a scramble for tenants over the coming months.<br><br>On the flip side, of course, Aussies aren't heading overseas either, so the net effect is less pronounced.<br><br><div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NHMwiB8le_s/Xqi_KI_OKqI/AAAAAAAA1co/f9bzKMhEbmYEpvVXqz0_K20qZL-txRQgACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/STDs.jpg" width="640" height="374" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="1370"></div>
<br>The New South Wales State Government looks set to do its part with the apartment overhang by buying up unsold new apartments from developers. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The compensating good news for landlords is that some of the available mortgage rates have plunged over recent months.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjevvfP3Yqo/Xqfy-Yv2d1I/AAAAAAAA1bk/7w7WuVZNbwIz8t-1h7xSFw_7uqsyT_JOACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="576" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="510"></div>
<p>The latest figures aren't available yet, but when they are they'll probably show that interest cost serviceability is back to where it was about 35 years ago.</p>
<p><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U63M-j09Ntk/Xqi7novQO8I/AAAAAAAA1cc/OkXV1ekccmcdanXhcxsw06e9sh5RH5xYgCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/RBA.jpg" width="640" height="366" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1405"></p>
<p>Some of the 'rack rate' variable mortgage rates are still unreasonably high for investors, but for those taking a  moment to shop around rates may now be very low indeed. </p>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-utLoCT8JsAI/Xqfy-UAUzRI/AAAAAAAA1bg/QL_0FM-tVpoEsEb-2ahfFuCDG8rnX3L7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="569" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="505"></div>
<div> </div>
<div>New owner-occupiers can secure mortgages from close to 2 per cent in some cases, while rates tend to be higher for investors. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>A lot of the statistics quoted on the number of negatively geared landlords are years out of date (the figure was 1.3 million in 2016-17, but interest rates have nosedived since then, so the figure would be lower today). </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ax0fxiMRIWA/XqgICpdCNzI/AAAAAAAA1cE/jhwZkE_NPqUru7XOFDfo_7zNp-ZzSB_oQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="372" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1378"></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Even assuming flat rents, a stylised model suggests that net rental losses will now be the lowest in years.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mSLzexWYa9Y/XqgIrBCLKfI/AAAAAAAA1cM/WdaAxSWcgVQrt_-KYTWnJrygMWw8HTcLACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="378" data-original-height="804" data-original-width="1360"></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>Most investors own one rental property, and the <em>average</em> net rental losses will probably be about $1,000 to $1,500. </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fJOA94Z--0E/XqgI_sP-EAI/AAAAAAAA1cU/kvvfz_yAISsSMN9qI1wJB8a8PjjCAQ7egCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="356" data-original-height="795" data-original-width="1427"></div>
<p>The detailed Australian Taxation Office statistics <em>do</em> show that many of those investors aged between 30 and 60 choose to hold an investment property with a reportable net rental loss of between $5,000 and $10,000 per annum, partly to reduce their income tax payable. </p>
<div>Generally this cohort tends to be the white collar set, earning solid incomes in relatively speaking more secure positions.<br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Depreciation report (MCG)</span></strong>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Moreover, the net rental loss reported to the ATO is not the same thing as the investor's cashflow.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In fact it's possible to be negatively geared from a taxation perspective but still to have a positive cashflow, due to on-paper depreciation benefits and capital allowances. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>MCG's <em><strong>1000 Assets 2020</strong></em> report showed that there was a big increase in investors buying new property over a period of four years through the construction boom.<br><br>These investors tend to receive very significant depreciation benefits, but I expect there will many investors in this cohort facing negative equity as brand new property tends to...well, depreciate.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LXKGk0-vSl8/Xqfy-bjRErI/AAAAAAAA1bc/uvep4GJkIOIKIe7UcB23jW7SJe_NezhnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="498" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="620"></div>
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div class="separator">MCG's study also found that investors have become more aware of depreciation benefits, and as a result they're claiming deductions sooner than they used to. </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bZw0gTkdc-I/Xqfy_Vt2PaI/AAAAAAAA1bo/-iZcH1CbheglY3FVRKQlrNlsWbwzZgdxACNcBGAsYHQ/s640/A4.jpg" width="640" height="402" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="1265"></div>
<div><em> </em></div>
<div><em>Source: MCG Quantity Surveyors</em></div>
<div><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em> </em></span></div>
<div>Some property investors will choose to sell, of course.<br><br>But the number of forced sellers will be lower than otherwise would've been the case due to record low mortgage rates, while borrowers have also been extended the option to switch to interest-only loans or take a 6-month repayment holiday. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>A couple of years ago many reports suggested that the interest-only reset would lead to a spike in mortgage arrears, but owners adapted and arrears barely moved. <br><div> </div>
<div>
<strong>PETE WARGENT</strong><em> is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</em>
</div>
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Will investors hold or sell in this troubled time? Pete Wargent

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<p>Key workers – such as teachers, nurses, ambulance and fire officers and the police – perform essential services.</p>
<p>Across the Sydney some 156,000 workers are employed in these occupations, equating to some six per cent of the workforce.</p>
<p>However, high property prices and high rents are placing barriers to their home ownership which were not experienced by previous generations. </p>
<p>There is now a serious mismatch between where key workers live and work, according to an important report prepared by Sydney University researchers for the Teachers Mutual Bank, Firefighters Mutual Bank, Police Bank and My Credit Union.</p>
<p>The report found that in the decade to 2016, key areas in Sydney lost up to 20 percent of teachers, nurses, policy and emergency service workers to outer and regional areas, while areas including the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and the Hunter Valley had net gains.</p>
<p>In 2006 more than 20 local government areas were affordable to a police senior constable. By 2016, that number had declined to four. </p>
<p>The majority of key workers now reside in outer ring suburbs, which the report advised was unlike other world cities, such as London, New York, or San Francisco.</p>
<p>The problem begins with the shortage of affordable rental homes near employment as this undermines the capacity to save for a deposit.</p>
<p>An enrolled nurse with five years experience on $57,000, requiring a one bedroom rental property, would be able to afford a median property in only 9 per cent of middle ring suburbs and in no inner ring suburbs. </p>
<p>As a consequence, many key workers are commuting long distances to get to work, or are living in unaffordable rental accommodation. </p>
<p>There's no doubting Sydney needs its Macquarie Street policy makers to improve key worker access to home ownership given the lack of affordable and appropriate homes.</p>
<p>But the report also identified one way to help restore housing options that requires innovative consideration of the plight of challenged home buyers bu the banking and superannuation sectors.</p>
<p>A key suggestion was the implementation of shared equity models that have long been used in the United Kingdom to help low and moderate income earners enter home ownership. </p>
<p>According to the UK Council of Mortgage Lenders, there are around 200,000 shared ownership homes in the UK where eligible households can purchase a minimum of 25 per cent of a property (and up to 75 per cent) and pay a rent of 3 per cent on the remaining share.</p>
<p>Over time the household can purchase the remaining equity in the property from the affordable housing provider partner (who owns the balance), or repay it when the house is sold. </p>
<p>We need mortgage lenders to embrace shared ownership.</p>
<p>It needs superannuation funds to joint venture with banks in this product. </p>
<p>This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.</p>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Banks need to embrace shared ownership concept as way forward for home affordability

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<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">A Sunshine Beach, Noosa district holiday rental has reportedly secured $80,000 a week this Christmas, making it the most expensive known rental in the country.</p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">Evgeny Skigin has leased <a href="https://domicnoosa.com" target="_blank">the uber-luxurious home, Domic</a>, which was built in 2019 into sand dunes on Seaview Terrace in Sunshine Beach.</p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">Its reported build cost was $21 million, taking three years to construct on the block of land that cost $5.4 million in 2013.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/Screen%20Shot%202020-12-03%20at%2011.23.46%20am.png" alt=""></p>
<p>Niche Luxury Accommodation managing director Sue Willis told The Courier Mail the $12,570 a night listing had three bookings over the summer period, totalling 10 nights.</p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">It’s understood one is a Sydney financier while another is a property developer from Melbourne.</p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">The three-level, concrete domed building with 1400 sqm of living space is camouflaged under a green canopy, on almost 1ha of land on the edge of Noosa National Park with landscaping by <span>James Birrell Design Lab.</span></p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb"><span>There is a 25 metre pool, day spa, gymnasium, plus cinema room and a conference room.</span></p>
<p class="Text__Typography-zot5yv-0 iBYKpG StyledP-cebixd-0 hUfumb">The 71 Seaview Terrace home was designed by Brisbane architect Noel Robinson for Skigin, whose industrial hemp business is one of the leading providers of the usable fibre in the world.</p>
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$24 million Noosa home, Domic secures $80,000 a week Christmas rental

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<p>Rental and accomodation scams have spiked over the COVID-19 hit 2020, with a 76 per cent increase representing over $300,000 scammed so far this year.</p>
<p>According to Scamwatch, there have been 560 reports of rental scams in 2020, which itself is an increase of 56 per cent.</p>
<p>They suggest that many are using tactics related to COVID-19.</p>
<p>These scams target people seeking new rental accommodation by offering fake rental properties to convince people into handing over money or personal information.</p>
<p>“Scammers are offering reduced rents due to COVID-19 and using the government restrictions to trick people into transferring money without inspecting the property,” ACCC deputy commissioner Delia Rickard said.</p>
<p>The ACCC say that the scammer will post advertisements on real estate or classified websites or target people who have posted on social media that they are looking for a room.</p>
<p>After the victim responds, the scammer will request an upfront deposit to secure the property or phish for personal information through a ‘tenant application form’, promising to provide the keys after the payment or information is provided.</p>
<p>The scammer may come up with excuses for further payments and the victim often only realises they have been scammed when the keys don’t arrive and the scammer cuts off contact.</p>
<p>Some scammers will even impersonate real estate agents and organise fake inspections, victims will then arrive to discover the property doesn’t exist or is currently occupied.</p>
<p>“The loss of personal information through rental scams is becoming more common, with scammers requesting copies of identity documents such as passports, bank statements or payslips,” Ms Rickard said.</p>
<p>“Once a scammer has your personal information you are at risk of being targeted by further scams or identity theft.”</p>
<p>“Many people are also experiencing financial difficulties due to the pandemic and the financial impact of falling victim to a scam can be devastating,” Ms Rickard said.</p>
<p>People aged 25-34 reported the most rental scams so far in 2020, and the most reports came from NSW, VIC and the ACT.</p>
<p>“Try to view a property in person before paying any bond or rent money to landlords or real estate agents,” Ms Rickard said.  </p>
<p>“In areas of Victoria under COVID-19 level 4 restrictions this is not possible, but you can help protect yourself by doing an online search to confirm the property exists and, if dealing with an agent, checking that the agent you are dealing with is licensed.”</p>
<p>“Scammers often rely on email communications to avoid identification, do an independent search for a phone number and speak to the property manager over the phone or arrange a meeting in person,” Ms Rickard said.  </p>
<p>“Before making any payments ensure you are dealing with the licensed agent, if a scammer has your details they may impersonate a real estate agent and attempt to ‘follow-up’ requesting money after an inspection.”</p>
<p> </p>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Rental and accomodation scams prey $300,000 from Aussies

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<p><strong>EXPERT OBSERVATION</strong></p>
<p>The latest consumer price index (CPI) data released shows that Australia is in deflation, and over the quarter, national rents fell by -1.3 per cent, which was both the largest and first quarterly decline on record.</p>
<p>Nationally, the cost of renting is now back at levels last recorded in March 2017.</p>
<p>Despite falling rents throughout the quarter, the volume of rental searches on realestate.com.au is actually up 38.5 per cent.</p>
<p>Not only are people searching more, the volume of high-intent activity on the rental section of realestate.com.au is also up by 74.5 per cent over the same period.</p>
<p>The results are a clear indicator of how COVID-19 has changed the property market dynamic.</p>
<p>Rental rates are coming under pressure from multiple sources. We have virtually no migration, there is new stimulus encouraging purchasing from first home buyers who otherwise may have been renters, and then there's the fact that unemployment is rising, and younger people are most affected.</p>
<p>With a moratorium on rental evictions in place until September, the next quarter is unlikely to see rental CPI fall as severely. Thereafter it is likely rental rates will fall further and will take quite some time to recover to previous highs.</p>
<p>The high demand on realestate.com.au is likely due to the possibility of finding cheaper and or better rentals, as evidenced by the CPI data.</p>
<p><strong>Cameron Kusher</strong><em> is director of economic research at the REA Group</em></p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Falling rental rates unlikely to bounce back soon: Cameron Kusher 

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<p>The ATO has issued a guide to explain how to treat rental income and expenses, including how to treat more than 230 residential rental property items.</p>
<div class="page" title="Page 5">
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<p><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/uploadedFiles/Content/IND/downloads/Rental-properties-2020.pdf" target="_blank">Rental properties 2020</a> will help owners of rental property in Australia to determine:</p>
<p><span>* which rental income is assessable for tax purposes<br></span></p>
<p><span>* which expenses are allowable deductions</span></p>
<p>*which records you need to keep</p>
<p>* what you need to know when you sell your rental property.</p>
<p><span>The guide explains </span><span>how to apportion your expenses if only part of them </span>are tax deductible.</p>
<p>It advises tax payers can no longer claim tax deductions for the cost of holding vacant land.</p>
<p>It also advised the situation if your rental property income and deductions have been affected by COVID-19 or recent natural disasters.</p>
<p> </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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