Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

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

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

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

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

Residential Development

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
The advertising of seven new positions to drive housing delivery by the Department of Planning and Environment is a good first step to help Sydney’s housing crisis.
The new positions of a Director and six Managers for Housing Delivery advertised by the NSW Government are a good beginning to tackling Sydney’s housing crisis.
The Urban Taskforce have called for a NSW Commissioner for Housing Supply to unlock large housing projects caught in the NSW planning system so we are pleased to see these new roles being advertised. Our concern though, is whether these positions will have enough authority to have an impact across all government agencies.
The Urban Taskforce has asked its members for examples of large housing projects caught up in the planning system and we have received details of around 40 projects that represent 40,000 new homes in brownfield and greenfield sites.
Many of these projects are languishing waiting for government agencies to resolve road, traffic and infrastructure issues. Delays can add significant costs to a project with some holding costs being as high as $500,000 a month. Most of these projects are on sites nominated by the state government for growth through Priority Precincts, corridors or urban activation zones.
It is good to see that the new housing delivery positions will be ‘identifying and removing blockages to the supply of housing including affordable housing’. There are many areas in the planning system that are slowing down supply including a lack of coordination between government agencies, excessive levies, confusion with council amalgamations and more precautionary approaches to re-zonings and planning proposals.
The Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey for 2017 has nominated Sydney as the second most unaffordable city in the world above Vancouver and Auckland and below Hong Kong. Clearly significant government action is required to help increase housing supply in order to address the housing affordability crisis.
The New Zealand government has set an excellent example and initiated the Auckland Housing Accord, a program to tackle the housing crisis in Auckland. Sydney could learn from the range of initiatives the Accord covers. These include a Housing Action Plan, the identification of Special Housing Areas which are identified for fast-track development and a proactive Development Programme Office.
The Urban Taskforce has identified a range of initiatives to drive quicker production of housing for Sydney and we are keen to work with the NSW Government on ways to improve housing delivery and increase housing affordability.
Chris Johnson is chief executive officer of property development industry group Urban Taskforce and can be contacted <a href="https://www.urbantaskforce.com.au/index.php?option=com_content&amp;view=article&amp;id=97&amp;Itemid=126#.Vdaart55dFI" target="_blank">here</a>.
</body></html>

cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

Housing delivery positions a good beginning for Sydney’s housing crisis: Chris Johnson

<html><body>
Parkland the length of ten football fields will be a feature of AVID Property Group's masterplanned community Harmony in Queensland's Parkdale.
The linear park, spanning more than five hectares will become a  'green spine' through the development according to Bruce Harper, general manager, AVID Property Group. He said conventional design dictates a series of local parks dispersed around the community, which are often under-utilised by residents.
"The combination of the parks into one long linear space, provided a visual and physical connecting ‘green spine’ through the development that would deliver a range of passive and active spaces, making the linear park and the development unique," he said.
“This design has also meant we’ve been able to effectively meet Sunshine Coast Council’s objective of providing a park within 400 metres of every home – at Harmony more than 90 percent of all resident will be within 250 metres from a local park.
"And this also means we’ve been able to connect our future residents to Harmony’s 60km network of pedestrian path and cycle ways.
“The design encompasses key activation areas, including recreational zones for people to kick the football or run around, to quieter areas to relax and read a book or enjoy a picnic. What our grand linear park will offer is a clear reflection of the social and recreational needs of our buyers.
Peter Egerton, technical director, urban design, RPS Regional  said Harmony was unique in its topography as the site was particularly flat, which removed a number of design limitations for the linear park.
“Most new sites for communities of this size, have hills and gullies, which dictate the design by the location of storm water, treatment and roadways,” Mr Egerton said. 
“Harmony has an abundance of open space and types of open space, which will be a huge attraction for buyers. The removal of traditional design restrictions enabled the team to put forward a design that really exceeds expectations for activation and functionality for the community. 
“The difference in our design approach came about using the linear link, or green spine, to put residents within a four to five minute walk away from a linear park that takes you somewhere – and that somewhere can be to a district sports fields, regional open space or a neighbourhood centre.” 
For more information on Harmony, visit <a href="https://www.harmonyliving.com.au%20/" target="_blank">www.harmonyliving.com.au</a> 
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Linear park a first for Queensland residential development

<html><body>
A waterfront residential development site on 11 hectares set in Sydney’s prestigious Eastern Suburbs has been listed for sale and is expected to sell for more than $280 million. 
Located off Anzac Parade in Little Bay, Little Bay Cove features more than 11 hectares of land including civil works complete along with masterplan development consent which allows for immediate commencement. All remediation, site works, roads, park landscaping and infrastructure have been completed. The site is fully serviced with all required amenities, including water, electricity and gas, according to a media release.
The sale, through an expressions of interest campaign launching February 28, is being managed by Knight Frank’s Tim Holtsbaum and Eugene Evgenikos along with JLL’s Ben Hunter and Sam Brewer.
Holtsbaum said the site is one of the last Eastern Suburbs coastal subdivisions available for development.
“We’ve seen some large residential site sale transactions occur nearby in the South Sydney market but nothing of this prestige, with the coastal lifestyle and beach views,” said Holtsbaum.
“We expect Little Bay Cove to generate significant interest from both local and offshore developers due to its unique characteristics. It is located just 20 minutes’ drive from the Sydney CBD, near all transport and amenity, and is nestled along Sydney’s iconic beaches, stretching from Bondi, Bronte, Coogee and out to Little Bay.”
Fronting Little Bay Beach, the site neighbours four of Sydney’s premium golf courses, including The New South Wales Golf Club, St Michaels Golf Club and the Coast Golf Club. Express bus and future light rail services provide convenient transport to the CBD.
</body></html>

prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Residential site with approval in Sydney's Little Bay on sale with $280 million hopes 

<html><body>
 <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/2017/02/21/700_greaton_logo.jpg" alt="" width="495" height="70">
SPONSORED POST
Greaton’s $260 million Oxford Central project located in the heart of Epping is fast gaining a reputation as the ultimate address in one of Sydney’s fastest growing and desirable suburbs.
Over three quarters of the landmark project has sold following its launch late last year.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%2010.03.45%20AM.png" alt="">
Oxford Central’s site was earmarked due to its strategic location in the epicentre of the state government’s plans to invest millions in re-developing Epping Town Centre and major transport infrastructure in the suburb. Epping Town Centre and train station are approximately 150 metres from Oxford Central’s front door.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%2010.03.37%20AM.png" alt="">
Cameron Porter, National Sales Manager for Greaton comments, “Oxford Central is a unique development that represents the epitome of luxurious living in a beautiful leafy suburb. Greaton will deliver a high-end lifestyle destination that captures the essence of suburban living combined with city conveniences.
“International award winning architectural practice, Marchese Partners has created beautiful residences on the inside as well as a stunning façade to ensure this project becomes a landmark structure on Epping’s skyline.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%2010.03.29%20AM.png" alt="">
Situated at 30 - 42 Oxford Street, the iconic project will comprise 252 luxurious apartments spread across two 17 storey towers, 292 car spaces and 625 sq m of retail on the ground level. A two storey heritage building located on the site will also be retained and is part of the retail precinct.  
The uninterrupted views across Sydney’s CBD, Chatswood and North Sydney are drawing buyer attention. Significant employment hubs including Macquarie Park, Chatswood, North Sydney and North Ryde are within a 10 kilometre commute from Epping. There are also direct train, bus and M2 motorway links to these hubs.
Stage two is now selling. Prices for apartments start at $595,000 for a one bed with an average internal size of 50 to 53 sq m, two beds start at $900,000 featuring an internal average size of 70 to 84 sq m and three beds are priced from $1.3 million with an internal space averaging between 99 to 120 sq m.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%2010.03.24%20AM.png" alt="">
The luxurious apartment interiors will enjoy Caesarstone benchtops with timber accents on the cupboards, two distinctive spring and autumn colour palettes to choose from supported by elegant timber floors, Miele appliances in the kitchen, Parisi fittings throughout, imported tiles wrapped around the floor and walls in the bathroom, floor to ceiling glass sliding doors and expansive balconies.
An open air café area and public plaza will feature alongside the Heritage building which fronts Oxford Central and will be accessible to the public. Residents will also enjoy large areas of communal open space on the ground level which include recreational and BBQ facilities.
A state of the art display suite is located on site at 30 Oxford St Epping. It is open seven days from 1pm until 4pm. Viewing outside these times is available by appointment only. 
For further information visit: <a href="https://www.oxfordcentral.com.au/" target="_blank">www.oxfordcentral.com.au</a> or phone 1800 917 997.
Greaton expects to start construction early in April 2017. 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Oxford Central – The ultimate address in the heart of Epping

<html><body>
Eight detached homes have sold in Sydney's northwestern suburb of Castle Hill to a local developer for around $40 million.
The site, named 'Premier', on Middleton Avenue, Fishburn Crescent and Sexton Avenue, is sized 7,545sqm and has a residential zoning allowing a potential development height of up to 40 metres and high density residential development of up to 250 units.
CBRE's Richard Gell said the site’s position in Sydney’s bourgeoning north-west was a key selling factor.
“The Castle Hill residential apartment market continues to perform well, so we expected to see significant interest in Premier," he said.
"Strong sales prices and sale rates have recently been achieved for off the plan apartment sales due to low supply levels.
“Castle Hill’s proximity to the Norwest Business Park, Castle Towers shopping centre, reputable schools and transport hubs makes for a strong residential market and as a result – a secure investment opportunity for the purchaser.”
Development of the nearby Showground Station precinct is slated for completion late 2018 and feature the Showground train station, residential apartments, shops, cafes and office buildings.
Property Observer found a house sold in 2015, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-castle+hill-119168139" target="_blank">90 Fisher Crescent, Castle Hill</a> (below) for $1,280,000. The four bedroom home is on 936sqm.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-16%20at%2010.54.03%20AM.png" alt="">
The three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/real-estate/7-sexton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw/property-details-sold-residential-9251638/" target="_blank">7 Sexton Avenue, Castle Hill</a> sold in 2015 for $2.3 million (below). It is in the Showground/Carrington Road Activation Precinct.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/02/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-16%20at%2010.59.36%20AM.png" alt="">
</body></html>

Eight Castle Hill residents sell mega site

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
The Fairway Residences development on Sydney's Strathfield Golf Course is 75 percent sold out, with town homes slated for completion late 2017.
The development, 88 Centenary Drive, Strathfield, features 50three and four bedroom town homes priced from $1.6 million.
Phil Leahy from Metro property Development said a lot of uptake in the three bedroom plus study designs has been from families and young professional couples. 
“There’s also the added bonus of being within close reach of transport links, shopping centres, parks and schools,” he said.
Metro has sold 37 homes, with 13 homes still on the market.
The remaining homes are priced from $1,650,000 to $2,099,000.
The sales office has been relocated to 1 Cave Road, Strathfield, and is open from 1pm to 5pm Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. For more visit <a href="https://www.fairwayresidences.com.au/" target="_blank">www.fairwayresidences.com.au</a>.
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

Fairway Residences in Sydney's Strathfield 75 percent sold

<html><body>
Construction is slated to begin July on Ferro Property Group's $27 million London Residences in Brisbane.
The residential development, 10 Bailey Street, West End, will feature 27 three and four bedroom residences, three 2-story manors, two terrace residences and 22  three bedroom residences.
Marco Ferro, developer, said the boutique market for larger, custom-designed three and four bedroom apartments in Brisbane was largely untapped and very strong.
“We purchased the site at 12 Bailey Street about 12 months ago and since then have been focused on perfecting the design both internally to ensure each Residence is completely unique and special for owners, and externally, to ensure London Residences complements the West End character and location," he said.
“We know the boutique owner-occupier market have very specific needs – and to meet these we have created a mix of oversized residences  - unique 2-story Manors that feature three bedrooms plus sitting rooms, The Terraces which are over 200sqm and home to 4 bedrooms plus study as well as the range of 3-bedroom Residences.
"Completely new to the market is the storage plans – we have dedicated half a floor to storage for owners, each ranging from 6-14sqm and attached to the Title, as well as car parking for 2 to up to 4 cars per residence. This is a flagship development, with owner needs pre-empted and delivered.” 
</body></html>

$27 million Brisbane development London Residences begins July

<html><body>
A 7,149 square metre site in Leichhardt, in Sydney’s Inner West, with approval for 139 units is for sale.
The residential development site at 141 Allen St, Leichhardt is listed through Colliers International agent Guillaume Volz. Offers close March 15.
The site received development consent in October last year for a staged development application comprising construction of six residential flat buildings between four and six storeys above basement level comprising 139 units. 
<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/2017/02/03/Feb3Leichhardt2.jpg" alt="">
“Whilst the market and government have responded to Sydney’s undersupply in mass development areas, such as Olympic Park and the Parramatta Road corridor, core suburbs such as Leichhardt continue to be ignored, despite the inherent attraction and desire from  buyers for apartments in these neighbourhoods,” said Volz.
“Our research indicates that Leichhardt is historically one of Sydney most undersupplied suburbs, with only 22 apartments completions in projects comprising 10 or more dwellings, from 2009 – 2014. 
“Recent rezoning of industrial sites has seen a moderate raise in supply, and since 2014 a further 470 apartments have been built or are under construction.
"There are only another 154 apartments with development approval, 139 of which are located in the subject development.”
The vendor’s representative, Irving Washington, said the property had grown in value due to the DA process and given the group’s interest elsewhere, the owners have now decided to sell.
</body></html>

Leichhardt site for 139 units offered for sale

<html><body>
The apartment developer Gurner has taken the unusual step to announce it has repaid $130 million in construction loans to banks after his two recent apartment projects were well settled in the week leading up to Christmas.
The projects included Ikebana (pictured above) in West Melbourne, that comprises 241 apartments and ground floor retail with a total construction debt of $90 million financed through NAB.
There was also 107 Cambridge Street in Collingwood consisting of 91 apartments plus ground floor retail, with debt totalling just over $40 million with ANZ. 
The projects saw strong settlements from both local and foreign purchasers, and all apartments leased prior to settlement, going against the market chatter about settlement issues and oversupply.
Both projects commenced settlement the week before Christmas – traditionally a difficult time of year for the property market.
By Christmas Eve, 107 Cambridge Street was fully settled, while Ikebana had reached over 90 percent settlement totalling over 215 apartments.
Founder and director Tim Gurner, pictured below, said while 107 Cambridge had zero foreign sales, 45 percent of the apartments at Ikebana were sold to FIRB purchasers. 
<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/2017/02/03/TimGurner.jpg" alt="">
He said the risk of settlement defaults was low due to the quality of the agents and buyers in the project and the increasing percentage of FIRB buyers who settled with cash or other means of financing in lieu of the Australian banks’ support. 
“The specific agents that we use are the best in the business and have been selling internationally for over 15 years, so they know their clients inside and out.  It is the smaller, new agents without a solid reputation that appear to be having issues,” Gurner said.
“Unfortunately the minority of small, dodgy agents have cast a shadow over the industry and scared the banks, however, the majority of the big international agencies we use have been around for 15 to 20 years and know much more about the Chinese market, the economy and the buyers than the banks or us.
“Absolutely there has been a move towards overseas and private institutions filling the funding gap the Australian banks have left behind. There really was no other choice when 80% of the finance market disappears overnight,” he said. 
Major banks had tightened lending to foreigners and investors in 2016 to curb the rapid growth in property values.
“I was initially wary of the rumours around settlement issues and the constant negative press, so we did spend more time and resources focusing on our buyers and the settlement and valuation process to ensure we could mitigate as much risk as possible,” he said.
“Interestingly, we have found a substantial number of purchasers at Ikebana settling with cash – over 35 percent - which is much more than any other project we’ve sold to date. Previously we saw cash settlements in the realm of five to ten percent.” 
He said the market had become more competitive and difficult due to changing regulations and planning policies which would test developers. 
“Considering the success of Ikebana and 107 Cambridge Street which were our first true settlement tests after the changes in foreign lending were announced, I’m confident if developers work hard with purchasers and find alternative funding options, buyers will get through this period unscathed.” 
Gurner said his company had several new projects which are expected to launch and find success in 2017. 
He had a piece of advice for developers. “It is however critical that developers take heed of the change in finance conditions as it is very real,” he said. 
“The main difference for us now is the time it is taking people to get finance approved, valuations completed and then settlement locked in… the days of swiftly preparing projects for settlement are well and truly behind us.” 
</body></html>

Ikebana, Melbourne developer Gurner repays $130 million in construction loans after foreign sales successes

<html><body>
Nearly 40 percent in value of residential development sites were purchased by Chinese developers and investors in 2016 according to a report by Knight Frank.
The figure is up 12 percent in comparison with 2015 and up by 36 percent from 2012.
The report, The Rise of Chinese Developers in Australia – Market Insight: January 2017 found Chinese developers and investors purchased $2.4 billion worth of Australian residential development sites in 2016, some 9.4 percent percent stronger than 2016.
Michelle Ciesielski, Knight Frank's head of residential research, Australia said despite overall total sales falling during 2016, and sales to Chinese developers and investors still being 11.2 percent lower than the market peak recorded in 2014, their influence has grown.
"Chinese developers and investors purchased AUD2.4 billion worth of residential development sites last year. Of these, the average residential development site had an area of 21,045 square metres – increasing more than 18 times from 2012 – and averaged a potential 502 dwellings per development site," she said.  
“While the Australian residential market collectively strengthened throughout 2012 and in 2013, growth in sales turnover encouraged prices to rise for local developers and investors alike.   
“At this time, the Australian dollar became very favourable against other currencies for investment into Australia. The Chinese renminbi was no exception.  
“Opportunistic developers, many for the first time, considered Australia to build their next development after becoming a household name in homeland China. It was considered, and still is to some extent, worth the risk to build a first-time signature development (even if profitability resulted to just be break-even) to be accepted as a reputable developer by the local Australian market.  
 “In the past three years, Chinese developers and investors accounted for over 25 percent of disclosed total sales each year – with 2016 recording a share of sales as high as 38 percent.  
“Long-term strategies must now be devised to allow for the Chinese government tightening the ease of outbound capital flow, and local lenders limiting funding to control their liquidity and satisfy APRA requirements.
"But one thing is clear – Chinese developers are determined to succeed in Australia, and for many generations to come."
</body></html>

Residential Development

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Residential Development

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News