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 Market

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Half-a-million dollars offers plenty of property options to owner occupiers or investors in Queensland’s Cairns because the sum is well above the median prices, say valuation firm Herron Todd White in their July residential market report.
A $500,000 property investment in Cairns will secure a well located modern executive style suburban dwelling or alternatively an above average quality apartment in the Cairns CBD, located on the mid to upper levels of a near new high rise unit development. 
“Indeed the purchaser or investor at this price level would find a large range of sectors, styles and locations available to choose from. However, it remains impossible to spend $500,000 on a new apartment due to the absence of new unit construction at that level,” says the HTW report. 
The $500,000 mark in the Cairns market is relative to the current (April 2016) median price levels of approximately $385,000 for houses and $220,000 for apartments. Over the past twelve months, 75% of houses and 95% of apartments sold in Cairns transacted for $500,000 or under. 
The Cairns market sits at the rising market stage of the cycle but is currently experiencing a pause due to factors such as tighter investment lending criteria and the uncertainty over negative gearing. This is indicated by sales volumes progressively softening over the past six to nine months while prices have reverted to minimal to no growth. 
“Nevertheless our prognosis is for the market to return to slow growth as the region’s tourism-based economy continues to improve,” says the report.
Property Observer looked up a recent sale on www.realestate.com.au that fits the bill. A three-bedroom, two-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-cairns-122643390" target="_blank">5 McCrae Street, Cairns, Qld 4870</a> sold for $397,000.
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Property options abound in Cairns in sub-$500,000 category: HTW

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If you are looking to park your lazy half-a-million dollars in NSW’s Bathurst/Orange, the $500,000 still makes a large percentage of the residential market, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White’s July residential market report.
The majority of new four-bedroom homes continue to be sold for less than this amount, although the proportion between $450,000 and $500,000 is increasing. This may be a reflection of the limited growth in incomes in the region, as they are reported to be across the Australian economy. This affects borrowing capacity which in turn determines what money is available in the market. This has more weight in the local market given that the region is not as sought after by wealthy migrants or overseas investors, except in the field of agriculture. The upside of this is a relatively stable market that has seen some increases over the past 12 months. 
“Investor activity has increased with investors chasing yields not available in Sydney, particularly as they may be able to purchase two properties for $500,000 instead of one,” the HTW report says.
If house prices are looked at in terms of years of average income, then $500,000 is a significant point above which mortgage stress is likely to be felt keenly by people on average incomes. If we consider that the median sale price for the region is between $300,000 and $400,000 then we can say that the region does not have an affordability problem. Having said that, it is unlikely to be enough for a few acres on the fringe of town. Such properties continue to enjoy strong popularity and are considered to be aspirational properties for a large percentage of the market. Such properties also benefit disproportionately from Sydney tree changers. 
Land values for well located central properties have increased more than the average if recent sales of such properties for redevelopment are used as a guide. 
“Our advice would be to find the area that has the most builders’ signs, indicating a renovation or redevelopment, and see what is available for under $500,000 in that area. Investigating Council approvals may be a more targeted approach,” conclude HTW.
Property Observer found a recent sale in the sub-$500,000 range at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-bathurst-122746290" target="_blank">49 Barker Circuit, Bathurst, NSW 2795</a>. This four-bedroom, two bathroom house sold for $431,000.
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In NSW’s Bathurst/Orange, $500,000 gets you a four-bedroom home: HTW

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Almost two thirds of Australians think now is a good time to be buying residential property and believe the housing market is vulnerable to a significant correction according to the quarterly housing market sentiment survey by CoreLogic and TEG rewards.
The survey found Melbourne stands out as the region where respondents are most optimistic about selling conditions.
Some 60 percent of respondents think now is a good time to sell in Melbourne, 73 percent think the market is ripe for selling in Victoria and 53 percent think the time is right to sell in Sydney. 
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CoreLogic research head Tim Lawless said with such a large proportion of survey respondents thinking that now is a good time to buy a dwelling, it was surprising to see almost two thirds (65 percent) also indicated they thought dwelling values could suffer a significant correction.
"While the results suggest that survey respondents are concerned there could be a substantial fall in Australian home values, the proportion is lower from a year ago when 75 percent of respondents thought the market was vulnerable to a significant correction in values," he said.
"Sydney-based respondents, where affordability constraints are the most pressing of any capital city, were the most pessimistic about whether now is a good time to buy a property, however slightly more than half the respondents still felt it was a good time to buy. 
"Conversely, the regions where dwelling values have peaked and shown a downturn are where respondents are most confident about buying conditions. 80 percent or more of respondents in the Northern Territory, Regional Western Australia and Perth indicated they thought it was a good time to buy.
"Melbourne stands out as the region where respondents are most optimistic about selling conditions, with almost three quarters of respondents indicating they thought it was a good time to sell. Based on CoreLogic data, Melbourne is continuing to show the fastest average selling time, at 34 days and one of the lowest average rates of vendor discounting."
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Aussies believe now is the time to sell a property with Melbourne the most optimistic: CoreLogic

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The residential market in Melbourne and inner eastern suburbs has remained steady over the 2015/16 financial year, however, recent restrictions on money leaving China and foreign investors borrowing in Australia has created some uncertainty, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's July 2016 residential market report.
CBD, City Fringe and Inner to Middle Eastern suburbs
With some banks stopping lending to foreign borrowers, the apartment market has begun to flatten and there are concerns about oversupply with an excess of 10,000 apartments to be completed within the city of Melbourne in 2016/17, it says.
The report explores what a first home buyer or investor can buy for half-a-million dollars.
"$500,000 will not buy you a lot of housing within the CBD or the inner east, however, there are some options. $500,000 in the Melbourne CBD can get you a two-bedroom one-bathroom apartment with a car space," says HTW.
A little further out in the city fringe, you can comfortably get a one-bedroom one-bathroom apartment with a car space for under $500,000. Further out, for under $600,000 you can get a good sized two to three-bedroom unit in Box Hill or Blackburn in Melbourne’s middle east.
"We have been unable to find a single sale of a detached dwelling in the Inner to middle east under $500,000. It is unlikely that these types of properties will still be available at this price point in the short to medium term."
A rental return between 4 percent and 5 percent is likely for CBD and between 3% and 4 percent in the inner to middle eastern suburbs.
As an example of a recent sale in the sub-$500,000 range, a one-bedroom apartment (picture below) at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-120871301" target="_blank">1710/83 Queens Road Melbourne</a> sold for $475,000. 
<img src="/images/HTW-Melb.png" alt=""> 
 
 
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Inner city Melbourne doesn't offer much in $500,000 property range: HTW

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What can you get for $500,000 in Sydney when the median dwelling price is at $782,000 (CoreLogic, May 2016) with a 13.1 percent positive increase in year on year values?
According to property valuation firm Herron Todd White’s residential market report for July, if you have an open mind and are willing to compromise on at least one of the factors of floor space, distance to CBD or age of improvements, there are options throughout the greater metropolitan area. 
North Sydney 
In the northern suburbs of Sydney, $500,000 doesn’t buy you much at all. With that threshold limit, compared with the CoreLogic unit median price of $662,000, you have the options of a semi-modern one-bedroom unit with one car space in Waitara, a 1970s one-bedroom unit with one car space in Lane Cove, or if there is some stretch available, a smaller semi modern studio in St Leonards without a car space. Further up towards the beaches you can still only just get a 1-bedroom unit but the closer you get to the city, the more likely you’ll have to contend with an older complex, dated inclusions, main road frontage and no car parking. 
This price bracket is generally made up of investors and first home buyers, both of which are sensitive to price and interest rate movements. The current cash rate as at June on hold at 1.75% may impact the market but we believe current regulations on investment loans will play a larger role in how this market performs overall.
As an illustration, Property Observer found a one-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-waitara-121952018" target="_blank">2402/32 Orara Street Waitara NSW 2077</a> that sold for $490,000.
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For $500,000, you can still buy a one-bedroom unit in northern Sydney: HTW 

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The south-west property market over the past 12 months has seen the opportunities to buy into the market for sub-$500,000 diminish, according to property valuation firm Herron Todd White’s residential market report for July. 
The Fairfield sub-$500,000 market is now predominantly made up of dated 1960s and 1970s low rise two-bedroom, one-bathroom units, many requiring refurbishment or works to common property. 
Rarely available are units in modern developments and at this price point, a 2000s built two-bedroom, 1/2-bathroom unit in a large high rise complex may be available but the limited access to sunlight and privacy from the balcony will need to be considered. 
The Liverpool sub-$500,000 market is mainly focused on the unit market which is centred on the CBD of this regional town. This is by far the best performing unit market for both quality of product and city centre location within the south west region. If you look towards the future, the Liverpool city hub will be the central focus point for living, working and entertainment in the south west region with the ease of access to the shopping centre, train station and schools major attractions for both owner occupiers and tenants. 
This time 12 months ago we spoke about the potential to enter the sub-$500,000 in suburbs such as Ashcroft, Busby, Miller and Cartwright. In the past six months this market has quickly evaporated. 
There is minimal evidence of such sales now and if they do appear, they are mainly near land value with the improvements usually presented in very poor condition and in need of a considerable amount of capital outlay to occupy. 
Further afield, Campbelltown, some 55 kilometres from the CBD, still offers plenty of opportunities to enter the sub-$500,000 for both dwellings and units. Suburbs such as Ambarvale, Airds, Bradbury and Englorie Park offer an abundance of choice from 1970s 2-bedroom low rise units to 1990s 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom homes on sub-500 square metre parcels. These areas can only benefit from future urban sprawl. 
To illustrate the point, Property Observer found a two-bedroom townhouse at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-nsw-campbelltown-122395302" target="_blank">14/10-18 Allman Street Campbelltown</a>, (above) which was sold for $436,000. The median price for units in the suburb was $410,000 while for houses it was $580,000, according to CoreLogic.
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In south-west Sydney, choices diminish for property below $500,000: HTW

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Approaching the halfway mark of the year with record low interest rates and consumer confidence back sees the market remaining strong with increases in values through several sectors of the market, including the real estate market in NSW's Coffs Harbour, say valuation firm Herron Todd White in their July 2016 residential market report.
Buyers in the $500,000 bracket can expect to purchase good quality five to 20 year old 3- or 4-bedroom, 2- or 3- bathroom homes on varying size sites located within two to three kilometres of the Coffs Harbour CBD and local beaches.
Standard new project style 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes range between $450,000 and $550,000 in the smaller central Coffs estates and southern suburbs of Bonville and Boambee East.
The more modern upmarket estate known as The Lakes at North Boambee Valley (two kilometres from the CBD) starts at around $500,000 for new 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom homes.
"If you are after more bang for your $500,000, the older established areas south of Coffs Harbour at Boambee East and Toormina will get you a five to 30 year old larger better quality 4- to 5-bedroom home with double garage and pool," says HTW.
Traditionally, these areas are of a more modest standard with values in the $300,000 to $450,000 range. These areas are well located close to the Pacific Highway for access north and south and are also located within two to three kilometres of the popular Sawtell Beach and shopping precinct. The major shopping centre at Centro Tormina is underpinned with K-Mart, Woolworths and Coles. Schools include primary and public high schools plus nearby St Josephs College and Southern Cross University.
The older homes within the northern beaches suburbs of Korora, Sapphire Beach, Moonee Beach and Emerald Beach have always been solid investments in the $500,000 to $600,000 bracket which buys 20 to 30 year old properties of good size located close to beaches and not far from major facilities in Coffs Harbour.
One area to watch is the beach side township of Woolgoolga, 30 kilometres north of Coffs Harbour. A traditionally strong agricultural area with good infrastructure, the recent bypass upgrade of the Pacific Highway and opening of Woolworths shopping centre only adds to the appeal.
Look to the southern side of Woolgoolga at Sandy Beach for the cheap beachside properties. Price points are generally under $450,000 for one to 30 year old homes of modest construction, with esplanade position properties going between $500,000 and $650,000. This area is still under developed with easy access to Woolgoolga and Coffs Harbour. The recent purchase of a large beachside development site will see substantial future residential development taking place which will lead to better infrastructure.
The Coffs Coast locality saw little capital growth over the GFC period, however the past 12 to 18 months has seen the market bottom and the start of the recovery.
"Traditionally we have not experienced the high levels of capital growth of the major cites due to the fairly low economic base within the region. Limited job opportunities does put a cap on the growth experienced in the mid to upper price brackets, while the majority of growth is centred under the $500,000 mark," HTW concludes.
As an example of recent affordable sales, Property Observer found a three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-coffs+harbour-122873066" target="_blank">15 Sunnyside Cl, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450</a> (above) which traded hands for $365,000. To put things in perspective, the median house price in Coffs Harbour was $425,000, according to CoreLogic 
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Coffs Harbour promises quality homes in $500,000 range: HTW

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It's taken two weeks after its auction, but the Bondi Beach apartment block in which the former Silverchair front man Daniel Johns owns has sold.
It sold after the bidding went no higher than their $12 million vendor bid earlier this month.
There has been no sale price disclosure. 
The seven apartments of the 1960s, four level Campbell Parade block were offered in one line.
The seven apartments include six two bedroom units and one one bedroom apartment.
They had attracted two developer bidders at the auction when offered through Seaton Jones of Ray White TaylorJones.
It was marketed as a duplex project or for the buyer to create their own home.
Johns owns two of the higher level apartments which cost him a combined $1.6 million in 2001.
He lived in the building for a short time before leasing the properties. He stands to secure around 33 percent of any eventual sale proceeds. 
 
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Daniel Johns' syndicate sells Bondi Beach apartment block

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There’s a growing body of research data pointing investors towards the regions.
A recent CoreLogic report, which compiled a Top 50 list of locations where the value of home sales had grown the most over 12 months, found that 46 of the Top 50 were regional locations.
Other recent research highlighted the New South Wales regional areas where price growth is now greater than Sydney’s.
And a report from Brisbane researcher Simon Pressley has predicted that retiring baby boomers will boost regional markets by seeking out towns and cities that offer attractive affordability and good services.
In addition, a State Government report has highlighted regional cities in Victoria where major population growth is expected over the next 15 years.
All that – and a lot more that’s out there in the way of compelling data – is significant because a lot of the simplistic price information and commentary that’s published tells investors that the capital cities are always better than the regions for capital growth. 
This is usually generalised data which produces a single growth figure for the cities and a single growth figure for the regions. It’s quite misleading, because the regional sample includes myriad negative markets (such as resources-impacted towns and drought-affected areas) which drag down the regional average. 
That generalised figure doesn’t really tell us anything useful and shouldn’t dissuade investors from considering regional areas – which offer plenty including lower prices and higher yields.
Residex data suggests that Melbourne price growth has averaged 6.9 percent per year over the past decade and regional Victoria only 4.7 percent – but does that matter if you can find a regional centre growing at 8 percent a year?
Right now, the most active and buoyant market in Victoria is not in Melbourne – it's the regional city of Geelong just outside the capital.
A new report on future population growth provides a few clues as to where investors might look for growth in Victoria. Geelong is one of the key places highlighted, alongside Bendigo and Ballarat. 
I see all three regional centres as places worthy of consideration by investors. They all offer economic strength and diversity, affordable housing and good transport links to Melbourne, particularly since the completion of the Regional Rail Link. 
And, according to the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, all three cities can look forward to strong population growth. 
The Victoria in Future report forecasts that the City of Greater Bendigo will grow 30 percent in the next 15 years, assuming current demographic, economic and social trends continue. 
According to the report, Bendigo can expect its population to grow from 110,000 in 2016 to 145,000 in 2031.
ABS figures show this will be the continuation of a trend, with the population rising from 93,000 in 2005 to 108,500 at June last year.
Greater Bendigo, Ballarat and Greater Geelong combined are expected to provide half of all regional growth to 2031. 
But the municipality likely to see the most dramatic increase is Mitchell Shire, which is forecast to more than double its population from 40,000 in 2016 to 81,500 in 2031. 
This will make it the fastest-growing area and the municipality with the second-largest growth in regional Victoria behind Greater Geelong. Mitchell Shire is a little north of Melbourne and includes towns such as Kilmore, Seymour, Broadford and Wallan.
Another LGA getting spill-over growth north of Melbourne is Macedon Ranges, which can expect its population to grow 25 percent over the next 15 years. Macedon Ranges towns have experienced major increases in median prices in the past 12 months, including 20 percent in Gisborne, 14 percent in Riddells Creek and 25 percent in Macedon.
It's further evidence that there is major capital growth to be found in the regions, if you look behind the generalised data.
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>
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Most active property market in Victoria is not in Melbourne: Terry Ryder

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What will $500,000 buy you in Newcastle if you are an investor or a home buyer? Property valuation firm Herron Todd White has sought to answer this question in its July 2016 residential market report.
"The past year has seen an influx of Sydney and overseas buyers calling Newcastle home, well at least, the address is here. For whatever purpose, whether it be an investment, to reside in or just a place to park money for a bit, the activity has driven prices up in this once coal driven city," write HTW.
The first home owner market is still thriving with young Australians continuing to pursue the dream of owning their own home and with government incentives still available for home and land packages, Morisset ticks a lot of the boxes - close to the M1 for Sydney commuters, within half an hour of major shopping at Tuggerah and Glendale, an array of builders and still under the $500,000 mark. The downside is that blocks are smaller than average, and you’ll get to meet you neighbours regularly when you’re hanging out the washing, so ideal for young families.
Closer to Newcastle and if investment or down sizing is the intention, then look no further than Mayfield. Mayfield has that inner city vibe without the inner city price tag. A neat and tidy three-bedroom, two-bathroom home fetches a modest sale that is close to amenities and transport. If you play your cards right, you could even have enough change for a cup of fancy coffee at one of the new cafes on the main drag. In some cases you could even get some cake to go with it.
One of Lake Macquarie’s hidden gems is Jewells. A purpose-built suburb in the 1970s, most homes are brick and sturdy due to the design covenants enforced at the time of construction. What that means now is that a solid family home is pretty much ready to move into after a lick of paint and a trailer load of agapanthus from nearby Bunnings.
"Jewells has seen growth of around 26.3% in the past year, so you need to be quick because that ship has almost left the dock. If investment is your goal, then land is a quick way to make a profit. You could even buy two blocks and on sell if you don’t intend to build."
There are parts of Nelson Bay that are worth considering - West Wallsend, Gillieston Heights and Cessnock are all on target for further investigation and due diligence, the HTW report noted.
"So wind your windows down, take a drive, absorb the vista and get your cheque book ready. Happy hunting!"
As an illustration, Property Observer found a recently sold three-bedroom house in Morisset at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-morisset-122097614" target="_blank">55 Pulbah Street</a> for $390,000.
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