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.

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"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.

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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

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GUEST OBSERVER
Robust demand for terraces and townhouses across Frasers Property Australias Sydney communities backs up calls made by NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes for more medium density housing in established suburbs to meet surging population growth. 
Forecasts released yesterday by the NSW Department of Planning &amp; Environment show Sydneys population is expected to jump by over 2.1 million in the next 20 years. 
Sydney requires 726,000 new dwellings by 2036 and the Minister identified medium density and terrace housing in established parts of the city as the key to meeting this demand. 
Demand for the traditional Sydney terrace design has grown, and Frasers Property has found a ready market for its entire stock of more than 200 terrace-style homes in the past year. 
Its a product type Frasers Property has a lot of experience with. Over the past decade Frasers Property has delivered 1300 terrace-style homes throughout metropolitan Sydney. 
Its clear that demand is there for terrace home product but the challenge is land availability and zoning. Projections of sharp population growth have resulted in many of Sydneys established suburban markets particularly the middle ring being zoned with a bias to high density apartments,said Mr Edgar. 
In principle this seems a reasonable solution. However, strong terrace and townhome sales in our communities suggest that there is a big appetite for medium density product in the middle ring suburbs, and planning conditions that enable medium density housing would be welcomed by the market. 
Existing planning conditions in many middle ring suburbs exclude townhouses and terraces because of minimum lot size requirements. 
Socially and economically sustainable community design arises from a well-balanced mix of medium and high density housing, and there is demand for both.
Great design cant be compromised when creating a variety of housing types that will have enduring relevance for current and future generations. 
When we launched a range of new townhome and terrace designs at Fairwater in Blacktown in 2014 we had more than 3,700 registrations of interest before we started selling. Every stage since has sold strongly.
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We are finding customers are drawn to the charm and character of the terrace style home so we re-imagined the more traditional terrace design to cater for the modern urban lifestyle, with indoor and outdoor living spaces and greater natural light.
Frasers Property recently released 29 new homes at Fairwater including a number of terraces and townhomes starting from $668,000. 
Tailors Walk in Botany is another case in point, where the re-imagined three and four level contemporary terraces are helping to maintain the character and charm of one of Sydneys most historic areas and proving extremely popular among young families and investors.
Creating a compelling terrace and townhome offering means designing to reflect the surrounding environment and recognising that variety is important, not just to buyers but also in terms of maintaining an attractive and functional streetscape. 
At The Gallery at Botanica, for instance, Frasers Property is turning the historic Lidcombe Hospital site into a superb medium density development through beautifully restoring a number of unique heritage residences from the late 19th and early 20th century into one, two, three and four bedroom residences. There also will be a limited number of newly built homes. 
The historic Lidcombe Hospital site benefits from a unique heritage environment, creating the opportunity and the need to design a variety of housing types that capitalise on the historic setting and satisfy demand for larger properties from growing and extended families.
To meet the expected population surge in Sydney, Minister Stokes also called for a design shift to bigger apartments and again, its a product in which Frasers Property has noticed a big increase in demand. 
Were receiving significant interest in the three bedroom apartments in our communities as buyers increasingly respond to the relative affordability of larger apartments while not wanting to compromise on good design.
For example, at Centrale in North Ryde, with its close promixity to the on-site train station and a plethora of amenities, the three bedroom apartments are proving very popular.
Nigel Edgar is general manager Residential NSW for Frasers Property Australia and can be contacted <a href="https://www.frasersproperty.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Terraces and townhomes depend on design

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Iris Capitol’s new Hurlstone Park residential development, Wattle Hill, launched on the weekend.  
CBRE advised 16 out of 42 apartments sold to a mix of owner occupiers and first home buyers. 
Designed by architects Squillace, it’s prices started with one bedroom plus study from $580,000.
Completion is expected March 2018. 
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Wattle Hill, Hurlstone Park sales underway

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There were no foreign buyers when Starryland launched the final stage of it's residential development, Promenade Parramatta.
More than 70 apartments sold within the first two hours of the final launch of its 700-unit project. 
Simon Hollows at CBRE said the majority of buyers were owner occupiers and first home buyers 
"The most popular apartments were three bedrooms with all three bedders sold out on the day. 
"There were no offshore buyers in this final stage, all buyers were local," he advised
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Starryland sells Promenade Parramatta to local buyers

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Remember the TV show Deal or No Deal?  
It’s a show where the player has a suitcase that contains an amount of money. They choose cases to eliminate them in the hope to end up with the highest amount which is $200k at the end. Along the way contestants can choose to take the bank deal offered or take a risk and continue to play. They may end up with $200k or with a much smaller sum.
I used to love the show and I’m always yelling ‘take the deal!’ as I vigorously rub the tips of my fingers together (this may sound weird if you haven’t seen the show).  My pleads directed at the TV get louder as the odds get slimmer.  I realised from playing this game even though I’m a property developer, I don’t like to take too much of a risk if it means losing money.
This threw me a bit as I always thought of myself as a risk taker.  Then I worked out that I do like risk, but only calculated risk.
Calculated risk is defined as:  “A risk associated with a certain course of action which has been given full consideration prior to making the decision to pursue that action. This is usually done when the potential gain is greater than any potential harm that might occur.” investorwords.com
The bit I like in this definition is ‘...when the potential gain is greater than any potential harm...’ ah, so that’s why I like risk, it’s what I do everyday; assess the potential gains in a property deal.  Also my job as property development project manager is to ‘give full consideration’ to a development and inform our clients before they ‘pursue action’.
In a way, the show was a bit like property developing.  If you hit the jackpot, there is good money to be made.  Making the decision on what case to chose could be somewhat like choosing a development site. 
If you chose the wrong site, you can uncover a $50,000 problem and eliminate a lot of your profit.  If you chose the right site, you may create $200,000. 
Property developing is about spotting potential and taking calculated risks. That’s why I love it.
Jo Chivers is chief executive officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a><a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">.</a>
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Spotting property development potential and taking calculated risks: Jo Chivers

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Real estate investment management firm Qualitas will become an equity investor in Manhattan Terraces, an $80 million dollar medium-density development by Urban Construct, in Brisbane's West End.
Manhattan Terraces will feature 80 terraces will have their own titles, high-end fixtures and private rooftop retreats. 
The deal will see Qualitas invest $15 million as an equity partner, with the investment being allocated to its $200 million Opportunity Fund. 
Tim Johansen, managing director of Real Estate Finance at Qualitas said 78 of 80 terraces are already sold. 
“We expected the development to be popular with locals looking to downsize and young families who want more than an apartment, but still want to be close to the city," he said.
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Qualitas invests in Brisbane West End terrace development

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A three-tower residential development with key workers such as police, nurses, fire brigade personnel in mind is coming up in Sydney’s Campbelltown.
The 101-apartment project, The Gardens, is being touted as Australia’s largest multi-storey prefabricated timber construction project and also the “largest affordable housing project without any government funding”, according to a media release. 
Building contractor Strongbuild is using Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) instead of traditional concrete and steel for construction. The prefabricated building technologies is expected to reduce the construction time by around off four months and result in cost savings, the release said.
Strongbuild managing director Adam Strong said  CLT has similar characteristics to concrete and steel yet 30 percent lighter. It also offers better thermal performance and requires less energy to heat and cool. 
“CLT is engineered and processed in a factory to be precise, making it fast and efficient to construct,” said Adam.
Construction of the first tower is over and work on the second commenced this week. 
The project includes three residential towers that are being developed by Tier 1 affordable housing provider BlueCHP Limited. The first tower will be sold to private investors or owner-occupiers, while the other two will be earmarked for Key Workers – police, nurses, fire brigade personnel - in Campbelltown. 
Rents will be capped for Key Workers at 30 percent of their wage. 
The regional city’s population is forecast to grow more than 36 percent from its current 158, 394 people in the next two decades.
Warren McGregor, CEO of the national association for off-site construction industry, prefabAUS, says saving four months would mean the client will be operational earlier. 
“It’s a huge advantage having a building project delivered faster, particularly for affordable housing clients like BlueCHP and for projects such as hospitals and schools.”
Housing affordability will be one of the topics discussed at the upcoming national prefabAUS Conference, Delivering Next Generation Buildings, on October 10 to 12 at the University of Sydney. 
Speakers will include Adam Strong, author Paolo Lavisci who has written a book on the design of timber structures, and Harvard alumnus Marc Norman.
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Prefab timber housing project in Sydney's Campbelltown targets key workers

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The development of the 2500 home project YarraBend combined with the new Chandler Highway bridge, will drive a boom in property prices according to developer Glenvill.
YarraBend has already sold over half of its first release of house and land packages with advertised prices for three to five bedroom homes starting at $1.48 million.
Len Warson, Glenvill chief executive offcer said access to the suburbs North of the Yarra has always been difficult due to the bottleneck at the Chandler Highway Bridge, however with its widening to six lanes, accessibility immediately increases and the entire area is given a boost.
“YarraBend will be new a new Northern gateway opening up a huge parcel of river front land to the public that was previously industrial and inaccessible. This can only have a positive effect on real estate prices in the area,” he said. 
YarraBend will feature architecturally designed free hold homes, townhouses and apartments, a wellness center with indoor pool and sauna, gymnasium, indoor and outdoor gym equipment, playgrounds, parks, green rooftops, as well as outdoor seating and BBQs scattered throughout.
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Danni Addison, UDIA Victorian chief executive officer said YarraBend would be one of the most environmentally sustainable developments in Australia.</div>
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<div class="page" title="Page 1">For more information, <a href="https://yarrabend.com.au/#jOIQ4h4kKjzjRPPy.97" target="_blank">click here</a>.</div>
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Victoria's YarraBend development to drive local property prices

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The Wanda Ridong Development Jewel on the Gold Coast has named Chinese international property website Juwai.com, as its China marketing partner for the billion-dollar, beach front development. 
Lucas Wilson, Jewel director of sales and marketing said China has more than 100 cities with populations above 1 million and it takes an online platform like Juwai.com to take this investment opportunity to the next level.
“The Gold Coast is undergoing a true transformation into an international gateway city, with easy connections to China, and world-class tourism, retail and service offerings," he said.
“As the sixth largest city in Australia, it is also one of the most bio-diverse, and is gaining momentum faster than cities right across the nation,” he said.
Gavin Norris, Head of Australia for Juwai.com, said last year we saw more than 500 percent growth in Chinese buying inquiries to the Gold Coast. 
"Forty-five percent of those buyers were motivated by investment and one fifth by lifestyle,” he said. 
Jewel can be found on Juwai.com <a href="https://www.juwai.com/25644194.htm" target="_blank">here</a>. 
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Juwai.com named market partner for $1 billion Gold Coast Jewel project

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Richie Willemsen of Wilmac Developments is selling a newly completed Main Beach, Gold Coast apartment on the second floor of Alta, a boutique development of six high-end residences. It has been listed at $2.4 million.
Set within walking distance of the beach, the river, the light rail and the shops and restaurants of Tedder Avenue, the property comes with three en suite bedrooms.
There's also a study and access to a communal pool and gym at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-main+beach-122305866"> the Woodroffe Avenue project</a>.
Michael Vettoretto of Platinum Residences and Darren Curtis of Christie’s International are co-agents on the listing which is a FIRB approved development, completed September 2015.
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New Main Beach apartment offering

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Even more apartments are planned for Parramatta, but the battle between developers has now morphed into which project has the best sky-high cocktail bar.
A 54 storey residential-hotel high-rise at Parramatta will be sold off the plan next month.
As Sydney's second CBD sees dramatic changes to its skyline, Coronation Property had Woods Bagot design the 8 Phillip Street tower to include a rooftop bar, subject to final approvals.
The five star hotel with rooftop bar will sit above 35 levels of apartments that sit above the existing heritage St Andrew's Church and St Andrew's Hall.
"We are deeply committed to delivering world-class architecture and creating a home that all the local community loves," said Coronation Property managing director Joe Nahas.
"Wood Bagot’s design for ‘8 Phillip St’ will set the benchmark for mixed-use apartment projects not only in Parramatta, but internationally."
"Australia is very fortunate to have some of the world’s best architectural creatives who understand our local culture and bring international expertise to the project.”
There's already another Sky Bar bar planned for Parramatta atop V by Crown (pictured above), the nearby $309 million mixed residential-hotel development which is nearing completion.
The sky bar will open next February.
Designed by Sydney-based Allen Jack + Cottier and Koichi Takada Architects, the V by Crown bar will offer views of the Blue Mountains, Sydney CBD and back to the Sydney harbour.
The internal bar area with direct lift access spreads across 275 sqm of internal space and a 90 sqm outdoor terrace, Crown Group director of sales, Roy Marcellus said.
“There is a huge demand for bars like this in Parramatta; offering luxury style in a relaxed atmosphere," he said.
Developed by Iwan Sunito and Paul Sathio, the 590 luxury apartment block has studios for sale from $550,000, one bedrooms from $729,000, two bedrooms from $920,000, and a three bedroom apartment for sale at $1.2 million.
On the planning horizon, the veteran Lang Walker is developing Aspire tower, a 90-storey block which will need development approval by the aviation authority due to its height.
Bates Smart has been selected to design the $700 million tower which will be Sydney's tallest if completed to plan.
The Parramatta River is also changing face, as the $550 million development, The Promenade is launching its third and final stage of apartments.
Construction has already commenced with completion expected in early 2018. 
A CommBank Property Insights report calculated 1500 unit completions in Parramatta in 2017.
Parramatta and its surrounding suburbs are expected to accommodate 60-70 percent of Sydney’s growth over the next 25 years.
When he was the Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Paul Garrard said the development taking place in Parramatta totals $12 billion worth of projects in the pipeline.
"It’s very exciting to see large projects such as this nearing completion and offering new housing to Parramatta’s ever increasing workforce and population.”   
Parramatta’s population is forecast to grow 24 per cent by 2036, from a total of 190,495 to 236,864.  
Estate agent John McGrath recently described Parramatta's property market as on 'serious turbocharge'.
He indicated one of the reasons was the activation of the river which had "for many years been a forgotten waterway."
It's not just the skyline thats been changed but also the street scape, Neil Perry being the latest chef to head out west and join the likes of Jamie Oliver in opening up eateries.
(The architect impression is level 26 at V by Crown)
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