Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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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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The Chinese property developer Wang Zhijun has yet to sell his redundant block at his $52 million Point Piper purchase, Altona.
The estate’s adjoining <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-nsw-point+piper-201480934" target="_blank">near vacant waterfront garden block</a> has been for sale for most of this year.
The 1012 square metres was added to Australia’s most famous trophy home by publisher Matt Handbury and his then wife, former model Fiona in the mid 1990s. 
A tennis court was envisaged.
The Australian reported in March that the decision to carve up the estate was viewed by some as “sacrilege’’.
Chinese property developer Wang Zhijun's offering could fetch him reportedly anywhere between $19 million and $27 million.
Rosaline Ho of Goldfield &amp; Co has been appointed to sell the site, with Alison Coopes.
With views of Felix Bay, the property was known as Murlo. It was purchased by the Hanburys for $6.25 million and knocked down to create more garden space extending from the street to the waterfront.
The Handburys sold their larger holding after an extensive renovation to publisher Deke Miskin and his wife, another former model Eve in 2002 for $28 million.
Wang is now reportedly a permanent Australian resident.
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Altona's tennis court block remains listed for sale

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With Sydney and Melbourne slowing, where do you think the next property hotspot could be? Hobart?
Few analysts would take this suggestion seriously, but researcher John Lindeman has come up with the numbers to back the idea.
"With only 2 percent of the nation’s population, a sluggish economy, high unemployment and social issues, especially in the northern cites. Yet look at what took place back in 2004, after the last big housing boom in Sydney and Melbourne had cooled down."
"Where did all the investors go to buy? In Hobart, and according to official ABS housing data, house prices there jumped by 50 percent in one year." 
<a href="/images/2016/05/27/Hobart.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<div><img src="/images/2016/05/27/Hobart.png" alt=""></div>
John Lindeman says that Hobart’s median house price in 2003 was just one third that of Sydney, but after the boom year, it had risen to half. And where is it right now? Back to one third of Sydney’s median house price again. 
"Of course, history doesn’t repeat itself, because the conditions are always different, but there is another way to check the potential for a Hobart housing boom, and that is by using our patented predictive methodology, which enables us to produce these pie charts showing the type of house market in each of Tasmania’s suburbs and towns a year ago, right now and the predicted change over the next year."
<div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/05/27/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-27%20at%2011.03.16%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div><img src="/images/2016/05/27/Screen%20Shot%202016-05-27%20at%2011.03.16%20AM.png" alt=""></div>
 
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The legend indicates what the colour of each type of market means, with prices rising strongly in a “boom” market, falling heavily in a “stressed” market, and the other types performing in between these extremes, so that a “neutral” market indicates no price change.
The pie charts tell an interesting story – they reveal that one year ago, a third of Tasmania’s suburbs and towns had seller or boom types of markets and this has now grown to more than half, but even more significantly, the number of suburbs with growth is expected to include two thirds of the total during the forecast period, and one third will be boom markets.
Most of the current and predicted boom markets are in Hobart, and even though Launceston is not showing any signs of growth potential as yet, rises in price are expected to extend there as well over the next year or two. Hobart has a shortage of housing, it’s a city which is attractive and affordable for retirees and offers positive cash flow opportunities to investors. Ten years of little to no growth are set to end as mainland investors turn their sights to Tasmania.
Simon Pressley of <a href="https://www.propertyology.com.au/">www.propertyology.com.au</a> is also betting on Hobart. “If we draw a line in the sand right now and cast our minds forward three years, of Australia’s eight capital city property markets my money is on Hobart being Australia’s best performer!" 
"While other so-called experts were berating Tasmania’s basket-case economy, Propertyology gave Hobart our official green-light back in April 2014," he adds.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Hobart could be the next property hotspot: John Lindeman 

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Sydney has many fringe suburbs where valuers Herron Todd White suggest there is possible value for money.
Overall the valuers have Sydney has at the start of a decline phase of the property market for both houses and units, according to valuation firm Herron Todd White's May property clock -- a simple broad brush means of suggesting where property prices are and what direction they're headed to.
The capital city was at the same position in April as well.
Here we take a look at 10 Sydney fringe locations as nominated by HTW.
SYDNEY EAST
Double Bay in Sydney’s eastern suburbs, has been revitalised over the past two to three years brought on by a much-needed face lift of the commercial and retail precinct transforming into a vibrant commercial hub.
The recent redevelopment includes new retail shops, Woolworths supermarket and other grocery stores, cafes, restaurants and speciality shops. It also includes the recently completed 2,300 square metre Double Bay Library, giving residents access to state- of-the-art facilities and 442 public parking spaces.
Other major changes include the redevelopment of The Intercontinental Hotel, formerly the Ritz-Carlton and the increased nightlife with various new restaurants, bars and nightclubs which is attracting the younger generation to the area. Night time venues have seen increased crowds since the lockouts in Kings Cross and the CBD which might not be seen as a great result for some, but is still creating a buzz around the area. 
Double Bay’s central location with direct access to ferry services and the harbour, Edgecliff train station and new shopping and commercial precincts has brought back to life its reputation. In five to 10 years Double Bay will still be a high demand suburb with potential for more medium density developments to increase its popularity.
As throughout its history, Double Bay isn’t the cheapest place to live with the medium house price being $3,185,500 as at February 2016 up from $2.405 million in December 2012. The average unit price was $1.250 million as at February 2016 up from $765,000 in December 2012 (source: realestate.com. au). 
Property Observer looked up some recent sales in Double Bay from www.realestate.com.au around the median prices.
A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-double+bay-121034166" target="_blank">43 Manning Road Double Bay NSW 2028</a> sold for $3,250,000. 
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Among units, a three-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-double+bay-121993882" target="_blank">3/3 Pine Hill Avenue Double Bay NSW 2028</a> was sold for $1225000, according to RP Data.
<img src="/images/2016/05/27/main-1.jpg" alt="" width="677" height="508">
Sydney Inner West
Dulwich Hill is a suburb in the inner west of Sydney approximately 7.5 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, which has gone through significant changes over the past few years.
In the 1990s many shops were vacant, but in recent years more shops are tenanted with thriving businesses helping to promote the café culture. Cafés and restaurants have become increasingly popular as the suburb becomes gentrified. Marrickville Council upgraded the shopping strip in the early 2000s, enhancing the look and character of the area. There has been increasing numbers of young professionals moving to the area over recent times due to its close proximity to the already gentrified areas of Newtown, Enmore and Erskineville. Dulwich Hill has also been boosted by the recent introduction of light rail. 
The proposed Sydenham to Bankstown Urban Renewal Corridor will see the introduction of a 20-year-plan to provide thousands of new dwellings along the current rail corridor and peak hour trains to the city every four minutes. Re-zoning will allow many medium-rise complexes and shop-tops within close proximity of the rail corridor including in the suburbs of Dulwich Hill, Marrickville and Hurlstone Park. Current parks and open spaces are proposed to be improved as well as enhancements to walking and cycling tracks. 
Dulwich Hill’s medium house price was $1.348 million as at February 2016, up from $850,000 in December 2012. The average unit price was $650,000 as at February 2016, up from $477,750 in December 2012 (source: realestate.com.au).
Sydney Inner South
The inner south area of Sydney in a line from Botany through to Waterloo has seen the transformation of a number of old run down industrial neighbourhoods into modern high density residential neighbourhoods. Suburbs such as Botany, Mascot, Rosebery, Beaconsfield, Zetland, Alexandria, Erskineville and Waterloo have also seen a significant number of large residential unit complexes constructed over the past ten to 15 years. This is set to continue with the precincts around Mascot and particularly Green Square railway stations to undergo significant retail and residential development over the coming decade.
Green Square is approximately 3.5 kilometres from the city centre and four kilometres from the airport and the development of this precinct will take it from its industrial past to a new style of high density living linked to shops, parks, gardens, entertainment and bike and walking routes. At the heart of the Green Square development is the new town centre, a major new residential, retail and cultural hub along with improved infrastructure and community facilities including a new library and plaza, aquatic centre, parks and open spaces, public art, a child care centre and community creative hub. It will eventually have 30,500 new dwellings including about 10,000 now under construction (source: www.cityofsydney.nsw. gov.au).
As discussed the bywords for many of these inner suburbs have been lifestyle options with a café culture. As buyer profiles have changed and medium density options fit both the purse strings and location options, the appeal of an inner suburb unit close to transport with minimal maintenance appears to be a primary driver for the regentrification of many suburbs. Given this change we do not see the appeal of these suburbs lessening over time. 
 
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Sydney's top fringe suburbs: HTW

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Auction activity will rise this week, with CoreLogic currently monitoring a total of 2,301 capital city auctions, representing a 20 percent rise in activity compared with last week (1,920). 
Despite the week-on-week rise, the number of capital city auctions compared to last year remains remarkably lower, given 2,792 were held over the same week last year.
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One of the significant differences when comparing this year to last year is the activity in Sydney. One year ago, over the week there were 1,149 Sydney auctions, while this year there are currently 732 scheduled. In Melbourne, the difference is less noticeable, with 1,110 scheduled for this week, compared to 1,248 one year ago. 
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The busiest individual suburb for auctions this week is Melbourne’s Glen Waverley, where a total of 25 residential properties will be taken to auction. Reservoir (19), Craigieburn (16) and South Yarra (16), also in Melbourne, follow on from Glen Waverley as the busiest auction suburbs this week.
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Summary of last week’s results: 
After recording a preliminary clearance rate of 70 percent last week, the final auction clearance rate revised down slightly, to 68.9 percent across 1,765 auction results. 
The two largest auction markets of Sydney and Melbourne recorded the strongest clearance rates last week, at 73.2 percent and 70 percent, respectively, followed by Adelaide (68.8 percent) and Canberra (67.2 percent). 
Results from last week show that across Queensland, auction clearance rates remained within 10.5 percentage points across the three main auction markets of Brisbane (50.9 percent), the Gold Coast (44.1 percent) and the Sunshine Coast (54.6 percent). 
Regional New South Wales auction clearance rates were relatively similar to what was seen across the state’s capital city, at 71 percent for Hunter and 70.4 percent for Wollongong. The Geelong clearance rate of 70 percent across 20 auction results was the same as Melbourne, at 70 percent across a much more substantial 797 results. 
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Auction activity will rise this week: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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Residential listings nationally are down 3.2 percent month on month according to CoreLogic RP Data, with listings in South Australia down the largest at 5.9 percent.
Listings in New South Wales are down 1.5 percent, Queensland 5.7 percent, Victoria 2.4 percent and Tasmanian listings up 5.5 percent.
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Queensland listings down 5.7 percent month on month: CoreLogic RP Data

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Capital city home values in Sydney are up 12.7 percent year on year according to CoreLogic RP Data, with a 7.8 percent year to date change.
Home values in Melbourne are up 12.8 percent, Brisbane 7.2 percent and Adelaide 5 percent.
Prices fell in Perth 3.8 percent
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Home values in Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide up year on year: CoreLogic RP Data

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The LJ Hooker agents behind the closure of their franchise in Glen Waverley have two of their Narre Warren properties listed for auction.
Judy Thanh Truc and her husband Joseph Ngo, who are at the centre of controversy after there were irregularities found in a LJ Hooker franchisee trust account, have listed the homes through Ray White.
Homeowners and tenants are said to have lost millions of dollar from the couple who were named LJ Hooker's "Best Team of the Year 2015", according to their now-offline website.
Six LJ Hooker offices in Melbourne have been closed and their franchise agreement has been terminated.
Jane Garrett, Consumer Affairs Minister said that Consumer Affairs Victoria had placed caveats on the two properties, to ensure the sale proceeds are retained as required.
Both are worth more than $1.5 million.
The move comes after Garrett earlier froze the trust funds from the franchises, the records of which are now being examined by CAV.
The two Cranston Close homes have been only owned for a few years.
The first was bought in 2014, when they paid $1.35 million for the sprawling contemporary family home with tennis court and built in playground.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-narre+warren+north-122627030">It has five bedrooms, four bathrooms,</a> two kitchens, home office and a cinema room.
The second was bought only last year, and is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-narre+warren+north-122626722" target="_blank">just two doors down</a>.
Bought in August, the $1.65 million home offers similar privacy on a one acre plot.
At the end of the circular driveway sits the five bedroom home with grand entrance portico.
Each of the five bedrooms have ensuites, there's a teenage retreat upstairs and a large upstairs open entertaining patio.
There is no word on the asking price for the two homes, but they are both available through Ray White Noble Park/Springvale agent Allison Grant for an in room auction on June 8.
Barry Plant, head of the Victorian estate agency that bears his name and which is in talks with LJ Hooker about creating a joint venture company, said the Melbourne trust fund missing millions matter would not affect their ongoing talks. 
 
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LJH trust fund couple's Narre Warren homes for June auction

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The town of Emerald in Queensland's Central Highlands Region was approaching the bottom of market cycle for houses while it was a declining market for units in valuation firm Herron Todd White's May property clock, the same as in April, which also dealt with fringe locations.
HTW's property clock is a simple broad brush means of suggesting where property prices are and the direction they are headed in.
The whole of the Emerald market appears to be starting to level out for the time being. The Mayfair and Riverview estates have seen the largest drop in values as the investor ratio is much higher and pride in the street is less, causing the estates to be less attractive. Many homes were built the same and the street appeal is inferior. Because of this they do offer some good value for money if one is prepared to call it their home. Flood-affected properties are also selling at a discount and are hard to move. 
The median house price in Emerald was $260,000 for houses, while for units it was $152,500, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
Property Observer looked up a few recent sales around the median prices on www.realestate.com.au:
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1. A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-emerald-122152686" target="_blank">7 Staunton Street Emerald Qld 4720</a> sold for $275,000.
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2. A five-bedroom executive unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-duplex+semi+detached-qld-emerald-113101587" target="_blank">2/11 Wright Street Emerald Qld 4720</a> sold for $200,000.
 
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Queensland's Emerald fringes are value for money: HTW

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A new property has been included on the top ten discounted properties nationwide list from SQM Research at number six.
The home, 160 Great Eastern Highway, Glen Forrest (WA - above) has had a reduction of 31 percentage points since being listed. It replaced 13/83 Aralia Street, Rapid Creek, NT, which sold last week for $240,000, $10,000 under the already reduced asking price of $250,000 according to SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher.
He said the property first came onto the market back in July 2015 with an original asking range of $1.3 - $1.5 million and at the end of last month the vendor slashed this price down to just $900,000, a total reduction of $400,000.
"The property is set on a massive 2018 sqm block with one gigantic family home, and bonus powered workshop," he said.
"The home consists of six bedrooms, two bathrooms, home theatre and study. It home also features a handy solar system with a three phase inverter which means no more annoying electricity bills.
"A reduction this large means business."
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One new property on SQM's top ten discounts list

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Pizza maker Don Meij has upsized Brisbane homes. 
Following the $3.125 million sale in Clayfield, the Domino's Pizza head secured the former matrimonial home of the Fone Zone co-founders David McMahon and Maxine Horne in Ascot. 
Meij paid $8.615 million for the <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/ascot/1425508/?lang=en" target="_blank">Hamptons-inspired home</a> (above). 
McMahon and Horne, who had paid $7.25 million in 2009, have also recently sold their Mermaid Beach weekender to former Hockeyroo Louise Dobson for $4.75 million.
Set on a sprawling 2024 sqm, the grand-scale Ascot entertainer features resort-style gardens with an infinity edge pool, pool house with bbq kitchen and expansive north-east verandahs.
The homes six bedrooms are all designed as private retreats, each with their own marble ensuites.
Architecturally designed, the property also has a billiard room with wet bar and cellar plus an executive home office.
Meij has been in the pizza industry since 1987, starting out as a lowly delivery driver for Silvio’s Dial-a-Pizza in Brisbane’s north east suburb, Redcliffe.
In May 2005, Meij led Domino’s to become Australia’s first publicly-listed pizza chain on the Australian Stock Exchange.
Leigh Kortilang of Ray White Ascot sold the 1,619 square metre Clayfield property to buyers from Greenslopes.
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