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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

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

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

Residential Investment

<html><body>
The former Wallabies and Brumbies captain Ben Mowan has listed his Holland Park investment property in Brisbane's southeast.
Mowan paid $667,000 in 2008 for the 1930s property which <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-holland+park-122605326" target="_blank">goes to auction June 4</a> through Space Property agent Adam Nobel.
The flanker played in Brisbane for most of his career but headed to France to play for Montpellier in 2014.
The renovated three bedroom, three bathroom contemporary home has two home office spaces and an extensive covered patio beside the fully fenced terrace garden.
Mowan rented the home listing it for $650 a week in 2013.
He said that the home is a "cracking property".
“It really is a great home for a family or people who love spreading out their living over two levels,” Mowen told the local paper.
“Our favourite space is definitely the open kitchen and servery window onto the large deck.
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Ben Mowen lists Holland Park investment

<html><body>
Bloomberg has reported on the waning interest Chinese buyers have in Australian property.
<div class="inline-media__unlinked-image"><a href="/images/2016/05/30/488x-1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="inline-media__unlinked-image"><img src="/images/2016/05/30/488x-1.png" alt=""></div>
It has noted in the first four months of the year, visits by potential buyers to realestate.com.au listings in New South Wales state from China declined 25 percent over the same period last year.
Views of properties in Victoria fell 8.9 percent, Bloomberg noted.
Listings in Western Australia saw the biggest drop of 35 percent, according to the portal, which is the nation’s biggest property website.
After many months where developers have failed to secure sellouts, Lendlease sold all 391 apartments of its third and final stage of its Darling Square apartments on Saturday.
The Sydney CBD sales secured around $460 million during a a four-hour period.
The apartments were priced between $630,000 and $3.5 million through CBRE. 
Many were "seasoned property buyers" who have some equity behind them.
The absence of foreign buyers was noticeable compared to the first and second stage sellouts in 2014 and 2015, the Australian Financial Review noted.
The first stage sellout in 2014 by Lend Lease secured the off the plan sellout of all 357 Sydney apartments, with revenue estimates as high as $650 million.
About 25 percent of apartments were sold to offshore ­buyers, the proximity to UTS encouraging purchasing by Chinese families.
Set on the doorstep of Darling Harbour, Haymarket, Chinatown and Ultimo, the initial Darling Square prices ranged from $700,000 for a 50-square-metre, one-bedroom ­apartment to $3.5 million for a 130-square-metre sky home.
This is not to say the Chinese buyers aren't there.
At weekend auction a Monomeath Avenue, Canterbury offering with pool on 1021square metres attracted five registered bidders, who pushed the price well over its reserve of $4.8 million to sell at $5.11 million.  
"There was a lot of Chinese interest, in fact all but the winning bidder were Chinese," selling agent Tom Ryan from Jellis Craig told The Australian Financial Review.
"It was almost as if they were a bit reluctant to buy it - the Chinese are still in the market but they don't seem to be as explosive," he said.
 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Waning Chinese buying interest in Australian property browsing

<html><body>
An outcry in Australia against property buying by Chinese investors and tightening of lending by banks has caused them to shift focus to the US residential market, says a recent media report. 
Purchases of residential properties in the US by Chinese investors rose to US$28.6 billion last year from US$11.2 billion in 2010, said a report in The Australian based on figures from the study by the Asia Society and Rosen Consulting Group.
The report looked at how Chinese buying in Sydney and Melbourne had sparked a “public outcry” because of concerns about “speculative real ­estate investment ... that is contributing to bubble like conditions of inflated home prices and pricing out many local residents”.
The shift to the US has also been fuelled by Australian banks tightening lending criteria to Chinese. 
The report said China’s investment in overseas property would slow.
“We believe China’s economic turbulence will create a short-term speed bump for real estate investment overseas,” it stated.
The study also predicted a ­period of increased capital controls, either formally through policy announcements or informally through administrative processing — until the Chinese currency was realigned.
It said those concerns would not spill over into the local real estate market, with key executives arguing that any restrictions would likely lead to a regulation of capital inflows into Australia, and not dry up.
Cushman and Wakefield's head of capital markets for Australia and New Zealand, James Quigley, however had a contrarian view, saying a new wave of Chinese investors would be undeterred by such measures.
Quigley cited moves by large Chinese institutions, including ­insu­rance and asset man­age­ment companies, as well as high-profile developers who dominated initial investing. Their activities would be supported by lesser known, small to mid-cap companies and developers, private equity funds and wealthy individuals, he said
He also noted the number of investment approvals granted over the past three years to Chinese groups had jumped by 416 percent.
“This is a good indication that the Australian government is quite supportive of Chinese capital entering and making investments in Australia,” he said.
</body></html>

prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Chinese look to US real estate after bank loan impositions in Australia 

<html><body><div title="Page 39">
The fringe suburbs of Warrnambool in Victoria consist of North Warrnambool, Dennington and the Gateway Road subdivisions.
These locations provide an affordable housing option for low to middle income earners as well as good entry level investments, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest property clock, April 2016, a simple broad brush means to indicate where property prices are and where they are headed to.
Warrnambool was at the start of the recovery market for houses, while for units it was at the bottom of the market, according to HTW.
The majority of Warrnambool's fringe suburbs consists of recently built, brick veneer dwellings with house and land packages starting from $320,000 and established dwellings averaging approximately $370,000.
These suburbs are providing good rent returns for investors, with rents ranging from $350 to $450 per week based on the size and age of the dwelling. Agents advise that tenants are preferring these suburbs, which provide newly constructed properties with at least three-bedrooms and two-bathrooms, to those closer to the CBD with older dwellings with a single bathroom.
North Warrnambool appears to be the suburb performing best which can be attributed to the recently completed infrastructure and access routes to the CBD. Long term you would expect a higher capital growth closer to the CBD but these suburbs appear to be able to maintain good rental levels and relatively good affordability. 
Property Observer found a recently sold home in Warrnambool's fringe suburb of Dennington around the average prices mentioned by HTW.
A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-dennington-119752087" target="_blank">45 Adriana Crescent Dennington Vic 3280</a> for $345,000, according to RP Data.
 
 
</div></body></html>

Victoria's Warrnambool fringes are good entry-level investments: HTW

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
The debate on negative gearing ahead of the budget and looming elections has only added to the confusion among property investors as the ultimate aim from buying property is to make money, not to lose.
It’s an outdated way of investing to focus solely on negative gearing to build a property portfolio.
To put things in perspective, Labor recently said if elected, it would restrict negative gearing deductions to only new property. The federal government opposes this, asserting that negative gearing should remain with caps being placed on its use.
All of this debate surrounding gearing and lending as the Budget looms has only highlighted the need for diversity in any property strategy. There are a lot of opportunities out there, people just need guidance.
It is important to tailor strategies on a case-by-case basis, rather than a blanket reliance on negative gearing and depreciation because any changes in circumstance, such as sudden unemployment, can turn the property into a burden.
The consulting firm says it employs a range of tactics on behalf of buyers, with opportunities including capital growth, high yield, cash-flow positive, add value, renovations, granny flats, developments and buying new or established properties in regional or capital cities.
We find this approach gives our clients the confidence to build a strong and balanced portfolio that is adaptable to changes and opportunities in the market. Regular portfolio stress checks are also important to ensure ultimate security.
In its first year, Crave has helped clients with property deals worth more than $55 million.
We just purchased a $325,000 property on behalf of a client, a corner block spanning over 790 square metres with rental return of $340 per week. They also have the opportunity to add a granny flat.
Another client recently landed a development block for $825,000, with similar properties now selling for $1 million.
Investors are also starting to look beyond local or usual purchase areas to areas that not only better suit their own financial situation but offer affordability and growth potential.
Now is the ideal time for home owners to check whether the impacts of recent government changes could increase the equity on their existing properties.
We are seeing a lot of opportunities being unlocked, with government rezoning key areas and adding infrastructure such as roads, transport and community facilities.
Debra Beck-Mewing is founder of consulting firm Crave Property Advisory and can be contacted <a href="https://www.craveproperty.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
</body></html>

Negative gearing strategies outdated: Debra Beck-Mewing

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
If you’re looking to invest in property, it’s important to understand what gearing is and how you can use it to maximise the returns on your investment.
Gearing is where you borrow funds to invest in property, shares or other types of investments. It allows you to increase the amount you have to invest and offers a range of potential tax benefits.
What is negative gearing?
Negative gearing occurs when the expenses on your investment are higher than the income you receive. As your investment is making a loss, you may be able to offset your expenses against other income such as salary or wages, potentially reducing your tax.
For example, if your mortgage repayments and the costs of managing your investment property are more than the rent you receive from tenants, your property could be negatively geared.
In addition to taxation benefits, negative gearing offers an opportunity to make a long-term profit through capital gains—where the value of your property increases greater than the costs.
What is positive gearing?
Positive gearing is when the rent from your investment property is higher than costs such as loan repayments, interest, property maintenance and rates. It tends to happen at times when rental rates are high and interest rates are low.
Understanding the risks
Negative gearing can be more risky than positive gearing and is only recommended when capital gains are expected in the long-term. If the value of your property falls or interest rates increase, you may need to pay additional costs that aren’t covered by potential tax deductions.
Gearing is complicated and it’s best to talk to a financial planner and accountant for professional advice before making any long-term commitment.
Tax deductions on your investment property
There is a range of potential tax benefits available on your investment property.
Expenses you may be able to claim include:
<ul>
<li>Advertising for tenants</li>
<li>Insurance</li>
<li>Some legal expenses</li>
<li>Body corporate fees and charges</li>
<li>Property agent fees and commissions, as well as travel costs to inspect the property</li>
<li>Land tax</li>
<li>Capital works and decline in value of depreciating assets</li>
<li>Repairs and maintenance</li>
<li>Cleaning, pest control, gardening and lawn mowing</li>
<li>Council and water rates.</li>
</ul>
Some costs can be claimed immediately and others can be claimed as depreciation over a number of years. You’ll need to keep records of all expenses, plus legal records of property ownership for at least five years.
Visit the <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/" target="_blank">Australian Tax Office (ATO)</a> for the latest information on what you can claim, or talk to your accountant for tax advice that’s specific to your situation.
For more information, <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

Property 101: Negative gearing and tax

<html><body>
Australians' love affair with property investment could be tested by the continuing slowdown in home prices, and that investors may be second-guessing the validity of negatively geared investments, according to Bank of America Merrill Lynch.
According to the bank, this may be the last property price boom Australians will see for many years, according to a recent article in the Australian Financial Review.
March data shows that median capital city prices rose just 0.2 percent, with annual growth decelerating to 6.6 percent year-on-year. These figures are down from a July 2015 peak of 11.6 percent year-on-year and 11.9 percent in April 2014.
"A period of weaker price growth or outright modest declines is likely to become entrenched over coming years," Merrill Lynch said in a note to clients. 
"We'd expect that such a period could severely test Australians' long love affair with property investment."
Record low interest rates, while initially prompting new entrants into the property market, has left few marginal buyers following the extended period of these conditions.
While diminishing house price growth has not overly knocked household spending or confidence, the bank sees significant oversupply exacerbating the apartment sector in the next 12-18 months, particularly in Brisbane and Melbourne's central districts.
"This will likely be of concern to new investors in this market," the note reads.
"Yet this development is not expected to materially [affect] price performance of detached housing but may [hurt] sentiment towards the property market overall."
Though the bank expects these pockets of apartment price weakness to lead the further deceleration of price growth and building approvals, it doesn't expect this to spill over into the detached housing market, although prices will continue to decelerate over the course of the year.
That said, the over-supply issue could take years to resolve, particularly as falling Australian immigration numbers slow population growth.
Those with negatively geared investment properties may find they need to hold onto these properties for longer to realise adequate capital growth.
"In addition, over this period, they are likely to face regulatory risks from both sides of politics," said the bank, referring to taxation statistics suggesting that, among the 2 million landlords in 2013-2014, one in six individuals were eligible to pay tax, a potential target for government tax policy.
However, thanks to the low interest rate environment, the average rental loss per landlord has declined from $11,000 in 2010-11 to $8,700 in 2013-14.
RBA governor Glenn Stevens recently said that a moderation in house prices was helpful.
The last time the RBA cut rates was in February and May of 2015, and Merrill Lynch argues the property market was one of the only beneficiaries, as price growth leapt in the following months.
Merrill Lynch thinks it unlikely the RBA will cut rates soon, unless a material rise in unemployment jolts the Australian economy.
"It is our view that only a material rise in the unemployment rate should force the RBA's hand - not a, likely transitory, deceleration of inflation or as an attempt to manage the exchange rate," the note reads.
But it's the promise of a slowing growth asset that weighs on the bank's thinking.
"If dwelling and in particular apartment price appreciation is difficult to come by over coming years, new investors may increasingly question the validity of their negatively geared investment," the bank says.
As such, Merrill Lynch remains wary, citing high indebtedness combined with extraordinary monetary policy globally as the reason appetite for property may be diminishing.
"With household income growth soft, the reduced ability to borrow, or at least no further extension of it, will weigh on prices," the bank says.
"This most recent boom in dwelling prices is likely the last one we will experience for some time."
</body></html>

Merrill Lynch says property slowdown will hurt negatively geared investments

<html><body>
When buying investment property, capital growth prospects should be prioritised over rental returns, says property expert John McGrath in a recent blog post on Switzer, citing a recent Corelogic RP Data report showing rental growth was slower than capital growth over the past decade.
The report shows that across the combined capital cities, rents have increased by 50.7 percent (or 4.2 percent per annum) over the past decade compared to an increase in capital values of 72 percent (or 5.6 percent per annum), he says. 
Looking at different property types, house rents increased by 50.3 percent while apartment rents rose by 53.7 percent. Drilling down to the cities, the two capitals with the greatest rental increases were Sydney (no surprise) at 59.4 percent and Perth at 54.6 percent. 
"Rental returns are important because they help you with your loan repayments. That’s their primary purpose at the beginning of your tenure of an investment property," he says. 
In most cases, especially in the high value markets of Sydney and Melbourne, the odds are the rent on a newly acquired investment property will not cover repayments or other costs in their entirety so an investor will have negatively gearing. 
Regardless, the rent will still take care of a sizeable chunk of the outlays, thereby reducing the cost of holding the investment property while time does its thing to deliver capital gains. 
However, over time, if one chooses to pay the principal and interest on the investment loan; and rental returns gradually increase year to year, one will eventually get to a point where rental returns do in fact cover the whole mortgage.  And throughout all this, tax benefits such as depreciation, will also have a positive impact. After a bit more time, the rent will start to cover other expenses like strata fees and council rates too. This would take an investor into positive cash flow territory and that’s an excellent place to be – it’s the dream scenario for retirees. 
But that requires good long-term strategy, adds McGrath.
"Many people say interest-only loans are the way to go with investments because they keep your repayments to a minimum. This is entirely true and a good strategy to adopt if your cash flow is tight. But if you want to get to a point where the rent is covering everything, you’ll generally need to start paying some Principal at some point.
"It’s helpful to think about where you want to be in retirement and work backwards from there. But don’t do it alone – sit down with your accountant or financial advisor. You might want to keep your loan at interest-only to keep outlays as low as possible, wait for capital growth; then sell in 10 years for a profit. Another scenario might involve paying the principal and interest to reduce the loan down to positive cash flow as soon as possible, with the intention of creating a strong, debt-free, income-producing asset for life.  
"Your strategy will depend on your goals and the timeframe you have to achieve them. But if there’s one piece of advice I hope you take when buying an investment it’s this – capital growth first, rental return second. Always."
</body></html>

When buying investment property – capital growth first, rental return second: John McGrath

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
The CoreLogic RP Data Home Value Index of capital city home prices rose by 0.5 percent in February after a 0.9 percent lift in January. Home prices were up by 7.6 per cent over the year to February.
Dwelling prices rose in six of the eight capital cities in February.
The Performance of Manufacturing index rose by 2 points to 53.5 in February – a near six year high. A reading above 50.0 indicates that the sector is expanding. Production, new orders and exports lifted in February
The economic data continues to surprise on a positive note. The manufacturing sector is now expanding at the fast pace in almost six years. And when it comes to home prices it is a case of modest strength – but more encouragingly price growth is more spread out and not just Sydney and Melbourne centric.
Dwelling prices rose in six of the eight capital cities. But the lift in home prices in Hobart, Adelaide and Brisbane was the icing on the cake. In fact home prices in Hobart have now lifted by 8.5 per cent in the past three months. It seems investors and home buyers are shifting away from the traditional growth markets of Sydney and
Melbourne and looking for more attractively-priced property in other cities.
It is still early days but the perfect outcome would be if the majority of regional areas recorded a lift in dwelling values. The “Rest of State” price index lifted by 0.6 per cent in February, although annual growth is still subdued at 2.2 per cent. This highlights the issues facing policymakers in attempting to manage a very diverse housing market. What we would expect to see is the lift in capital city house prices continues to filter out across the regional towns over the next 12-24 months.
The consolidation in home prices is unlikely to see home building dry up. There is a record pipeline of dwelling approvals that suggest a lot of building work will take place over the next two years - supportive of a lift in activity levels over the medium term.
The rebalancing effect across the economy continues to take place. Manufacturing activity has now expanded for eight consecutive months – marking the longest streak in ten years. More importantly the sub-indices like, production, new orders and exports, are showing a credible lift. No doubt the weaker Australian dollar will continue to support the sector. In addition low resource prices – particularly for oil - are keeping down input costs and also providing a boost to the sector.
<a href="/images/2016/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-01%20at%2011.50.38%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/03/Screen%20Shot%202016-03-01%20at%2011.50.38%20AM.png" alt="" width="814" height="591">
The latest data should ensure that the Reserve Bank continues to remain on the interest rate sidelines. If a rate cut was to take place it would be as a result of a downturn in the global economy rather than domestic economic conditions.
What do the figures show?
Home prices
The CoreLogic RP Data Hedonic Australian Home Value index of capital city home prices rose by 0.5 percent in February after a 0.9 per cent lift in January. Home prices were up by 7.6 per cent over the year to February.
House prices rose by 0.6 percent in February while apartment prices fell by 0.1 percent. House prices were up 7.8 percent on a year ago and apartments were up by 6.2 percent.
The average Australian capital city house price (median price based on settled sales over quarter) was $572,000 and the average unit price was $480,000.
Dwelling prices rose in six of the eight capital cities in February: Hobart (up 2.9 percent), Adelaide (up 1.9 percent, Brisbane (up 0.8 percent), Sydney (up 0.5 percent), Darwin (up 0.4 percent) and Melbourne (up 0.3 percent). Prices fell most in Perth (down 1.1 percent), followed by Canberra (down 0.2 percent).
Home prices were higher than a year ago in six of the eight capital cities. Prices rose most in Melbourne (up 11.1 percent), followed by Sydney (up 9.5 percent), Hobart (up 6.2 percent), Brisbane (up 5.5 percent), Canberra (up 4.5 percent) and Adelaide (up 2.8 percent). Prices fell in Perth (down 3.1 percent), and Darwin (down 2.9 percent).
Total returns on capital city dwellings in the year to February rose by 11.5 per cent with houses up 11.6 percent on a year earlier and units up 10.9 per cent.
 Performance of Manufacturing
The Performance of Manufacturing index rose by 2 points to 53.5 in February – its highest level since July 2010.
AIG notes “February was the eighth consecutive month in which the Australian PMI has been above 50 points (net expansion). This is the longest continuous run of expansion since 2006.”
Across the sub-indices; production (60.1 points), new orders (52.4 points), stocks (52.5 points), deliveries (53.5 points) exports (53.7 points) and sales (53.0 points) were positive in February. Employment (47.4 points), remained in contraction.
What is the importance of the economic data?
The CoreLogic RP Data Hedonic Australian Home Value Index is based on Australia’s biggest property database. Unlike the ABS Index, which excludes terraces, semi-detached homes and apartments, the CoreLogic-RP Data Hedonic Index includes all properties. Home prices are an important driver of wealth and spending.
The Australian Industry Group and PricewaterhouseCoopers compile the  Performance of Manufacturing Index (PMI) each month. The Australian PMI is the Australian equivalent of the US ISM manufacturing gauge. The PMI is one of the timeliest economic indicators released in Australia. The PMI is useful not just in showing how the manufacturing sector is performing but in providing some sense about where it is heading. The key ‘forward looking’ components are orders and employment.
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
Sydney and Melbourne drove the gains in home prices in 2015. But the two largest cities are likely to come back to the pack over 2016. Overall, we expect returns on home prices across Australia to lift by around 7 per cent in 2016. CommSec expects no change to rates over 2016.
Savanth Sebastian is an economist for <a href="https://www.commsec.com.au/" target="_blank">CommSec</a>
</body></html>

Regional towns to get boost, as Hobart leads higher home prices: Savanth Sebastian

<html><body>
New growth stars will emerge in 2016. You’re most likely to find them in Brisbane, Melbourne, regional New South Wales and regional Queensland, although others such as Adelaide and Hobart may put their hands up.
Here are five areas I think are worth watching as we get into the New Year. These are all places that should produce price growth in 2016, on the back of serious momentum with rising sales activity in their markets.
1 Oxenford and the northern growth corridor, QLD: 
The Gold Coast is now the clear national leader among the Local Government Areas of Australia. It has the most growth suburbs, by a wide margin. 
These rising suburbs are found right across Gold Coast city, but the growth corridor stretching north from the Gold Coast towards Brisbane is the standout area, with growth suburbs either side of the Pacific Motorway.
Oxenford stands out, with sales rates lifting from 80-90 per quarter last year to 130-135 in the past two quarters. Other growth suburbs in this precinct include Coomera, Upper Coomera, Pimpama and Ormeau. 
2 Lalor and Whittlesea, VIC:
The focus of Melbourne’s up-cycle has switched increasingly from the middle market to the outer suburbs, where affordability and good infrastructure are key drivers.
The Whittlesea LGA in the northern suburbs is leading the way, headed by the suburb of Lalor (median house price $400,000), where sales rates have increased from around 70 per quarter last year to above 100 more recently. 
Other growth suburbs in this precinct include Epping, Mill Park, Doreen, Mernda and Thomastown. 
3 Beenleigh and Logan City, QLD:
Logan City, which borders the Gold Coast to the south and Brisbane City to the north, has led the revival of Greater Brisbane markets in 2015. 
It has more growth suburbs than any other precinct in the Brisbane metropolitan area, headed by Beenleigh, the administration centre for the LGA, where house sales have increased steadily over the past 12 months or so.
Another standout suburb in Logan City is affordable Eagleby, where sales in the past four quarters have increased from 59 to 65 to 95 to 102.
4 Forster-Tuncurry, NSW:
The Great Lakes LGA in the Mid North Coast region of New South Wales is a standout performer is this latest survey for The Price Predictor Index.
Residential sales in Forster, about 300km north of Sydney, have risen from 106 to 114 to 139 to 152 to 155 in consecutive quarters, while neighbour Tuncurry has recorded a similar pattern.
5 Point Cook and Wyndham City, VIC:
Another example of the emergence of the affordable outer ring suburbs of the Melbourne metropolitan area is Wyndham City in the south-west heading towards Geelong.
A number of suburbs have strong growth trajectories, headed by the developing suburb of Point Cook, where quarterly sales in the past 18 months have been 289, 313, 350, 396, 395 and 420.
Wyndham Vale is another standout market in this precinct, with quarterly sales levels lifting from 85-90 about 18 months ago to around 140 in the September 2015 Quarter.
 
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
</body></html>

Residential Investment

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Residential Investment

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News