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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

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

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

Rental Property

<html><body>
Sydney’s Parramatta finished third on the list of most searched suburbs in 2015 compiled by rent.com.au, with median rents within the last 30 days at $460 per week, a rise of 2.2 percent over the last quarter.
The price range was relatively tight though, with $200 for a one-bedroom dwelling at the low end and $600 for a 5+ bedroom dwelling at the top end, the data from <a href="https://rent.com.au/" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a> showed.
However, Parramatta’s median rental growth fared better than surrounding suburbs — Rydalmere, Oatlands, Granville, Holroyd, Mays Hill, Westmead, Harris Park, North Parramatta and Merrylands, which was flat at $430 per week for the comparable 30-day period as well as over 90 days, the data showed.
Parramatta also fared better than surrounding suburbs for average days on market, which was 32 compared to 37 for bordering suburbs. The number was also down by eight days from the last quarter.
There were a total of 120 rental properties advertised in Parramatta within the last 30 days, up 13 from the previous 30 days.
Though the median rent for the last 30 days rose 2.2 percent, the graph for the six months till January is absent of clear peaks or troughs, both for apartments and houses.
There are a total of 4,372 rental properties in Parramatta, making up 61.6% of all properties in Parramatta (ABS, Census Data, 2011).
Nearly 80 percent of all dwellings in the suburbs are apartments, with the rest houses, the data showed.
Property Observer found these two recent examples, one a unit and the other a townhouse, on rent.com.au
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%2010.51.04%20AM.png" alt="" width="834" height="569">
1. A two-bedroom unit with a garage at 1/16-20 Lansdowne Street (above) is available for $460 per week.
 2. A two-bedroom full brick townhouse on 9/485 Church Street (below) has been advertised for $420 per week.
<img src="/images/2016/02/18/Screen%20Shot%202016-02-18%20at%2010.51.22%20AM.png" alt="" width="683" height="463">
The ASX-listed Rent.com.au Ltd achieved a record 615,405 unique visitors to its website in January, followed by more than 610,000 unique visitors in February.
Landlords are able to list their property for free in a limited time offer on <a href="https://www.rent.com.au/" target="_blank">rent.com.au</a>. 
 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Rental range relatively tight in Parramatta: rent.com.au insight

<html><body>
Property Connect, a rental property technology company, is raising $2.5 million through a public listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) as as part of a reverse takeover by Conquest Agri (ASX:CQA).
The company will issue 50 million shares at A$0.05 per share, giving it a market cap of A$12.28 million upon listing, expected March 7 under the proposed ASX code PCH.
Property Connect has developed a program called LiveOffer, through which potential tenants can make an offer on a rental property, thus creating a fair market value for rental properties.
LiveOffer™ provides the renter with the ability to adjust the rent paid, move in date and lease term to create an overall scenario for the property manager.
“We provide a win-win situation, instantly matching the ideal renter for the property and securing the optimum outcome for the property manager,” said Property Connect founder, former Sydney property developer Tim Manson.
Manson has relocated to California seeking to launch the LiveOffer™ technology into the US multi-family apartment market.
“Feedback from those who have trialled the technology has been excellent and we have a host of clients eagerly anticipating the new version.”
Version 2.0 of LiveOffer™ is expected in Q2 CY2016.
Property Connect will charge a set-up fee and monthly fee for each community placed on the LiveOffer™ system by the property manager, in addition to a 1-3% transaction fee per lease passed through the platform.
The product also provides an opportunity for tenants to upgrade to premium apartments that become available.
The company has signed agreements with 10 US property management groups, with more than 100,000 combined listings per annum, for use of the LiveOffer™ platform.
Funds from the capital raising will be used for system development, hiring and working capital. 
GTT Ventures Pty Ltd is sole lead manager for the equity raising.
</body></html>

prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Rental tech firm Property Connect set to list on ASX

<html><body>
ASX-listed Rent.com.au Ltd, a portal dedicated to listing rental properties, achieved a record 615,405 unique visitors to its website in January. 
The latest figures were up 12% on the previous high hit in October 2015 and rose 27% from December numbers, the company said in a regulatory announcement.
The January traffic result was in line with the company’s expectations, said its managing director Mark Woschnak, and reflected Rent’s increasing focus on customer experience and product development. 
“These strong indicators demonstrate that the site is delivering renters, agents and landlords with the products and services they want,” Woschnak said.
Landlords are able to list their property for free in a limited time offer on <a href="https://www.rent.com.au" target="_blank">rent.com.au,</a> Australia's number one rental website.
Other highlights include:
Portal up at number 7 on AC Nielsen national property sites ranking
48% increase in page views
49% increase in time on site
The company, founded in 2007 by Woschnak, aims to continue to shift the private landlord market to online and launch products aimed at making the rental process easier, it said.
“We are achieving good monthly growth toward our objectives by continuing to increase the number of agents and landlords registered with us, and therefore increasing overall property listings,” Woschnak said.
The company is also growing its field sales team to cash in on the momentum.
 “Notwithstanding the strong January traffic results there is a significant upside in the size of the renter audience that is still available to us.” 
He signalled the next phase of growth would involve actively pursuing other key objectives, including enhancing and developing the range of content, user experience and products that renters need.
"This has been reflected by the almost 50% monthly gain in key engagement metrics of pages viewed and time on site.
"This increased level of user experience has also resulted in an approximate 50% gain in the number of enquiries delivered to agents and landlords, and is now more than 3.5 times the level of property enquiry that we had prior to listing,” Woschnak said.
</body></html>

Rent.com.au achieves record 615,000 unique visitors in January

<html><body>
When looking for a new house to lease, most renters will spend several weeks, if not months, searching for properties online and inspecting them in person.
This time spent researching makes renters very discerning as to what makes a desirable property and there are certain features they will actively seek out.
In addition to these sought-after features, Shane Goldfarb, who recent helped establish the new McGrath agency after years at Hodges St Kilda, says there are some simple tips landlords should be aware of in order to increase the desirability of their rental property, not to mention the quality of tenants and potentially the rent price. His ten tips landlords should know in order to make your rental property more appealing.
 1.      TENANT FRIENDLY, NOT INVESTOR FRIENDLY
It’s important as a landlord to remember that your target audience is renters. While an investor might be interested in certain features, your aim is to appeal to tenants, who typically want somewhere that is comfortable, low-maintenance and good value for money.
 2.      PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Investing in professional photography rather than taking your own photos of your property will instantly increase its desirability. When renters are researching dozens of properties online, properties with clear, professional photos will always catch the eye first and give renters the impression that the property, like the photos, is of a high quality. Also, these photos can be reused, creating greater return on the small investment required.
 3.      PRESENTATION
It may seem like stating the obvious, but presentation matters. Simple measures come inspection time, such as ensuring the house has been freshly cleaned, including carpets steam cleaned if necessary, will help to ensure your property is leased quickly. 
 4.      QUALITY FITTINGS AND FIXTURES 
A discerning renter, the type you should most want to attract, will be more likely to apply for property that has high quality fittings and fixtures such as stainless steel in the kitchen and bathrooms.
 5.      FRESHLY PAINTED
It should never be underestimated what a fresh coat of pain can do for a property, particularly one that is maybe on the old and tired side. Stick to neutral, timeless colours like whites and creams to ensure they will be compatible to all tenants tastes and not require regular repainting over the years.
 6.      AIR CONDITIONING
For many tenants central air conditioning is considered a crucial feature and can be the deciding factor between two very similar properties. 
Whilst installing air conditioning might seem like a significant investment at the time, a quality unit should last many years, making the initial outlay worthwhile when compared with years of consistent rental income.
 7.      DISHWASHER
Similar to central air conditioning, a dishwasher is increasingly considered a must-have amenity. Likewise with central air conditioning, the initial investment will be offset by the premium prices that can be charged for having this feature.
 8.      OUTDOOR AREA
Simple improvements to the outdoor area, whether it be a backyard or courtyard, can make a world of difference. A functional outdoor area acts as an additional room and entertaining space.  If previous tenants have consistently failed to maintain the garden or lawn, it could be worth neatly paving the space to ensure it stays presentable and functional.
 9.      QUALITY COMMUNAL AREAS
When leasing a property that has shared facilities, ensure that the owners corporation are on top of cleaning, gardening and maintenance of communal areas. These areas are extensions of your property and a tenant may choose an alternate property or choose to move if the owners corporation do not keep the areas clean and well maintained.
 10.  ENGAGING A GOOD AGENT
The advice and professionalism of a quality property manager can be invaluable. If you are time poor or unsure what to look for in a tenant or how the leasing process works, do your research and engage in a reputable property manager. They will ensure you have reliable tenants that maintain your property and increase your chances of consistent rental income. 
 
For more from Shane Goldfarb, <a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/4490-shane-goldfarb" target="_blank">click</a><a href="https://www.mcgrath.com.au/agent/4490-shane-goldfarb" target="_blank"> here</a>.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property 101: 10 tips to make your rental property more appealing

<html><body>
Vendors considering selling their rental property have been advised to consider how a tenant views the whole process - little more than inconvenience followed by a possible eviction, according to vendor advocacy website vendormarketing.com.au.
According to the guide, vendors need to be honest and upfront with tenants throughout the whole process. If the rental property is going to sell to an owner-occupier (being someone who will live in the place themselves), they need to understand this and have the opportunity to get prepared.
"You should explain the period of time they will have after the sale to move, and tell them that you will provide a reference attesting their cooperation. However, if it is a normal rental property chances are quite high that another investor will buy it. In this case it is in their interest to present the property well and it is likely they could stay. Promise to keep them informed during the sale process. This helps to reduce their anxiety," the guide said.
"Set some parameters around inspections. This includes when the real estate agent can bring buyers through and the extent of the campaign. Inspections should mostly be open house to minimise inconvenience, and the times agreed in advance. Other inspections should be strictly by prior agreement with at least 24 hours notice.
"You must state that no one will go through except as agreed and always accompanied by the real estate agent. The marketing campaign should have a reasonable time limit for instance, 4 weeks, after which you would come back to the tenants if necessary.
"Of course sometimes a tenant is uncooperative or irredeemably messy, or has horrible furniture and you have to make a judgement call whether to sell with them in possession. If it is unavoidable you simply have to do the best you can. Remember that a really difficult tenant can make it almost impossible to sell at a good price, and tenancy laws do very little to help. Fortunately this is rare. Most of the problems are caused by the tenant being taken for granted. Don’t forget to ask them if they would like to buy. You just never know."
For more information, <a href="https://www.vendormarketing.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Property 101: Selling rental property – how to keep the tenant on side?

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The Sydney rental property market remained steady over October with vacancy rates staying at 1.9% for the second month in a row, according to REINSW.
The October 2015 REINSW Vacancy Rate Survey found inner Sydney rose 0.1% to 2.1%, outer Sydney dropped 0.1% to 1.6% and middle Sydney held at 1.9%.
REINSW President Malcolm Gunning said for a second month in a row vacancy rates have remained at 1.9%.
"Job growth continues to be the key driver of interest in the Sydney market and the figures indicate demand is being met,” he said.
According to REINSW, Hunter region vacancy rates fell from 3.3% to 2.7%, the Illawarra the overall vacancy rate rose 0.4% to 2.6%.
New England increased 0.6% to 4.3%, Albury up 0.5% to 2.8% and Northern Rivers increased 0.1% to 1.2%. The Mid-North Coast fell 0.1% to 1.4% and Coffs Harbour fell from 2.8% to 1.9%. 
<a href="/images/2015/11/24/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-24%20at%209.52.02%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/11/24/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-24%20at%209.52.02%20AM.png" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Sydney rental property market steady: REINSW

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
An increasing number of landlords are requesting agents take over the management of their rental properties after experiences with tenants who default on rent or who damage their property.
Our member agents are reporting many instances where they are inheriting properties with requests from the owners to evict tenants or to chase up unpaid rent.
Privately managed properties are targeted by bad tenants because they know the landlord does not have access to the checks and balances available to a professional property manager.
Good agents pay for access to the national defaulting tenant databases whereby they can check to see if there is any negative activity recorded against an applicant’s name anywhere in Australia.
It is not unusual for an immaculately presented applicant who looks to be a perfect tenant to owe thousands of dollars in rent or to have damaged a property in another state.
Many of these people are serial defaulters and once they are in a property it is difficult to move them without loss and aggravation.
Another advantage of professional management is that it provides a firm, friendly barrier between owner and tenant. 
It must be said that the grater majority of tenants are wonderful people who look after their rental property and pay their rent on time every time however there do exist a percentage of bad tenants and landlords are well advised to seek professional management to minimise the risks.
 
Geoff Baldwin is chairman of the  Certified Practicing Real Estate Agents and can be contacted <a href="https://www.cprea.com.au/" target="_blank">here</a>. 
</body></html>

Bad tenants target self-managed rentals: Geoff Baldwin

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The number of residential property listings are 1.8% lower than this time last year despite the level of fresh listings up 11.7% in the same time period, according to CoreLogic RP Data's Property Pulse market update for the week ending July 26. 
The market update found total stock across Melbourne, Hobart, Canberra and Sydney has fallen more than 8% when compared to the same time last year, making market conditions more favourable for vendors. Perth and Darwin housing supply is nearly 22% higher making for tough selling conditions.
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The report noted a fall in total listings numbers has stabilised since mid-March.
 
<a href="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%201.19.46%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%201.19.46%20PM.png" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Rental stock falls in Sydney, Melbourne: CoreLogic RP Data

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The number of rental property vacancies across New South Wales fell 0.2% to 1.9% in July, according to the REINSW.
The July 2015 REINSW Vacancy Rate Survey found falls in Inner Sydney saw of 0.5 per cent to 2.1%, Middle Sydney fell 0.2% to 1.7% and Outer Sydney fell 0.1% to 1.6%.
REINSW President Malcolm Gunning said despite the 0.2% decline month on month a strong stream of property on the market starting to feed the migration into Sydney.
“Supply is still strong,” Gunning said. 
“Vacancy rates remain close to 2.0 per cent which shows that supply is starting to meet demand.
“Outer Sydney has hit levels last seen in December 2014.
Illawarra vacancy rates dropped 0.5% to 1.7%, Wollongong down 1.0% to 1.4%. Vacancies rose in the Hunter region 0.2 per cent to 3.7%, New England climbed 1.2% to 4.6% and Orana increased to 4.0%. 
<a href="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%201.58.36%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%201.58.36%20PM.png" alt="" width="746" height="232">
 
<a href="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%202.00.59%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/08/18/Screen%20Shot%202015-08-18%20at%202.00.59%20PM.png" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

mick.cee-iDmgDDAmu8

NSW rental property vacancies slide: REINSW

<html><body>
Education and training providers are snapping up office space in Melbourne with a 44% increase in education leasing deals for 2014 when compared to the previous year - a total of 36,000sqm.
According to research from CBRE in the last 18 months educator leasing deals in the Melbourne CBD has doubled from 5% (20,000sqm) to around 10% (45,000sqm).  
CBRE research analyst Anne Flaherty said in contrast to many industries, tenants in the education sector are most likely to lease secondary grade space and are therefore, playing an important role in the absorption.
"In 2014, vacancy in the secondary market reached its highest level in a decade, forcing landlords to increase incentives in a bid to entice tenants.  This is reflected in annual absorption figures, which totalled only 15,000sqm for secondary space, compared with 52,000sqm for prime," Ms Flaherty said.
“University enrolments are rising on average 4% per year, with domestic university enrolments exceeding one million for the first time in 2014 and the number of international students commencing study was up 10% over the previous year. 
CBRE regional director of office services, Andrew Tracey, said in the first two months of the year alone, he has seen 4,146sqm in new enquiry, with a large portion of this interest in quality buildings that are willing and able to accommodate education providers.
Key Melbourne education lease deals
<ul>
<li>CQU has signed a 12-year lease on 8,000sqm at 120 Spencer Street, a 22-level A-grade office building located opposite the Southern Cross Train Station. </li>
<li>Monash College recently took up 6,570sqm at 271 Collins Street, committing to a 10 year term on the property. </li>
<li>Red Hill Education has also secured space within the building, which is currently listed for sale with CBRE, signing a five-year lease on a 1,600sqm suite on the 8th level. CBRE Senior Negotiator, Office Services, Milly Stockdale negotiated the deal. </li>
<li>Study Group committed to 6,700sqm in Church Lane earlier in the year, signing a 9.5 year lease on the Credit Suisse AG-owned property. </li>
</ul>
Several pockets across Sydney have also witnessed a surge in leasing activity, with Parramatta, Blacktown and Bankstown in the west emerging as some of the city’s largest education hubs, according to the report.
 
</body></html>

Rental Property

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Rental Property

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News