Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

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Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Residential Property

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Townsville’s demographic composition by age structure changed significantly over the ten years from 2008 to 2018, according to the latest report from the valuation firm Herron. Todd White.
“The proportion of persons in the population aged 55 and over has progressively increased from 18.9 percent to 23.9 percent due to the combined impacts of baby boomers entering these age ranges, population ageing and older people remaining affiliated with Townsville rather than moving elsewhere,” the March report found.
Meanwhile the proportion of the population aged either 10 to 19 or 35 to 44 has diminished from 29.8 percent to 26.3 percent, suggestive of families with high school or university age children having lesser attachment to the region.
“Trends in the age composition of the population will not only have economic implications for Townsville and its future labour supply, but also impact on future housing styles and choices in the Townsville property market,” the report continued.
“We have started seeing a move by downsizers towards inner city unit living, particularly within the suburb of North Ward.”
This style of housing provides low maintenance options for retirees whilst being in close proximity to lifestyle amenities such as The Strand, cafes and entertainment.
“First home buyers are currently preferencing new home construction or packages, whilst we are also seeing movement from buyers currently residing in the outer suburbs to suburbs within closer proximity to the city centre,” the report concluded.
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Townsville market undergoes substantial demographic changes: Herron Todd White

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First home buyers are typically priced out of the stand-alone housing market for the Gold Coast’s central localities within two kilometres of the beach, according to the latest report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.  
“With a non-western front renovator in Mermaid Waters generally starting at around $700,000, this market appeals more to the second or third home buyer looking to secure a good position close to the beach and facilities,” the March report found.
“Typically in this suburb, house buyers are upgrading with some equity behind them or downsizing from a higher priced waterfront home, ditching the mortgage but still benefiting from the lifestyle amenity of the central location.
Currently prices are generally stable with purchasers either looking to renovate and flip for a quick profit as there is steady local demand for recently renovated, just move in, nothing to do type houses.
This is evidenced on the Isle of Capri, a residential locality within the suburb of Surfers Paradise, with recent sales for non-waterfront properties at stronger price levels.
“This locality has benefited from gentrification in recent years with the local shopping centre, Capri on Via Roma, being completely revamped and remodelled within the past few years and the tram line within walking distance,” the report said.
An example is 5 Saint Andrews Avenue, Isle of Capri which transacted in August 2019 for $1.84 million to a local buyer.
Built in 2019, the dwelling is an architect-designed, contemporary, two-level, fourbedroom plus study or bedroom, four-bathroom dwelling with rendered masonry, fibro cement sheet walls, skillion metal roof and double car garage.
It features a high standard quality fit out, two-level void over the living room, catwalk hallway, polished timber flooring, timber bi-fold doors, ducted air conditioning, wine room, inground swimming pool and established landscaping. The land area is 539 square metres.
The site was previously sold with an older dwelling for $890,000 in March 2018.
First home buyers in these central localities are mainly confined to the unit market with agents reporting that affordability is the main driver. $400,000 is generally the price point cut off and body corporate fees are a significant factor.
“First home buyers are also competing with investors who also factor in likely achievable rental income with outgoings including body corporate fees,” according to the report.
“The first home buyer generally must look for a house in the more outlying suburbs such as Carrara where it’s possible to get a semi modern three bedroom duplex unit for circa $400,000. House prices start around the mid $400,000s for a three bedroom house,” the report said.
“Mudgeeraba has seen increased townhouse and unit development within recent years with product increasingly including four bedrooms or three bedrooms plus a study or bedroom which is appealing to investors and first home buyer families alike. Mudgeeraba, located west of the M1, is also a sought-after locale for first home buyers.”
It has its own local shopping centre, schools and is within close proximity to Robina Town Centre.
Entry level three-bedroom townhouses in Mudgeeraba start at around $315,000 for something built in the 1980s with a largely dated fit out. Modern, circa 2018 built two-level townhouses providing four bedrooms, two bathrooms plus powder room with a single garage and single open carport are around $490,000.
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FHB's priced out of Central Gold coast property market: Herron Todd White

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Brisbane’s residential real estate sector performs relatively steadily throughout its price cycle, avoiding dramatic dips, swings, peaks and fluctuations, according to the latest report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.
“Long-term property owners tend to do fairly well as long as their asset selection is on the mark,” the March report found.
“There is also a fairly typical range of buyer types. Our first home owners are motivated by affordability and getting the most bang for their buck. Their tick list will obviously be driven by location, but they’re also keen to find decent size allotments, potential for renovation, proximity to amenities and easy access to the CBD or a wellestablished lifestyle hub,” the report continued.
“While many of our first home buyers would no doubt like to buy within the five-kilometre radius, their price point usually means a balance between location and property type and quality. As such, there are those able to cope with a second-hand unit in a prime near-city position, while others will seek a newer home on a larger lot in a suburb a bit further out.”
“Both options could appeal to first home buyers at a similar price point Of note also is that first home buyers are becoming more prominent in our market.”
“The $15,000 state government first home buyer grant (which is limited to new property) and federal government deposit scheme are helping to boost their numbers. Add to that low interest rates as a motivation to getting first timers on the property ladder.”
Conversely, upgraders in Brisbane are looking to draw on increased value in their existing homes to secure better-quality accommodation in their location of choice.
“Their desired suburb will probably be dictated by their households needs. Young professional couples might look to move out of units and head towards a detached home with some renovation potential so there’s opportunity to build fast equity.”
Upgraders are mostly looking for the advantage of more space or larger yards and hopefully improved location compared to their first home - While upgraders will reside anywhere from outer suburbs through to near CBD depending on the budget, many find themselves in mid-range suburbs with easy access to the city.
“Family buyers could almost be considered an advanced subset of upgraders. These buyers are typically driven to certain properties by school catchments, proximity to public transport, parks, amenities and lifestyle amenities.”
“While many family buyers might want to look for renovation potential, there are plenty who are motivated to acquire something ready to live in so as not to tie up their weekends doing upgrade work.”
Brisbane downsizers and empty nesters are looking for low-maintenance homes with lock-and-leave potential to allow for trips out of town - a smaller detached dwelling of good quality and with a low maintenance yard, the report found.
“We are also seeing ever increasing numbers seeking accommodation in high-end units of minimum two (even three) bedrooms. They like the security while still having space for the kids and grandkids to stay. Downsizer locations vary from the CBD through to the bayside suburbs.”
Downsizers are also drawn to large apartments in suburban nodes within close proximity of shopping centres, amenities and hospitals.
The final buyer group highlighted in the report is the business professional - These buyers want to be close to the CBD or suburban nodes so their commute is short.
“Again, low maintenance is a priority as is public transport and lifestyle facilities. It’s suspected that these buyer numbers may well increase from the interstate migrant cohort coming to Brisbane chasing a better lifestyle than in Sydney or Melbourne,” the report found.  
“The above list is, of course, not exhaustive. We are seeing a societal demographic shift with the rise of single-person households, multi-generational homes, single-parent families and share ownership among friends.”
“It’s envisaged that these varying household makeups will spur innovative and thoughtful design changes that will become more common over the next few years,” the report concluded.
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Brisbane’s real estate sector holds steady: Herron Todd White

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The global sharemarket downturn will grab all the headlines again today.
Shares fell sharply in February as investors became increasingly concerned about the spread and increase in novel coronavirus (COVID-19) infection rates globally. Uncertainty about the US presidential election outcome, concerns over lofty sharemarket valuations and worries about the potential virus impact on corporate earnings and global growth also dampened risk sentiment and lifted volatility.
In the final week of the month major developed market indexes - including the Australia’s benchmark S&amp;P/ASX200 index - posted their worst weekly performances since 2008.
So where do investors seek shelter in a low interest rate environment?
Well, record low mortgage rates, rising home prices, strong auction clearance rates, limited housing supply, improving access to home loans and now financial market volatility are encouraging Aussies to return to the property market.
In fact, total returns on national dwellings rose by 10.1 per cent in the year to February - the strongest annual growth rate in 28 months - with houses up by 9.9 per cent and units up by 10.5 per cent on a year earlier. In contrast, the S&amp;P/ASX All Ordinaries Accumulation Index lifted by 8.2 per cent over the year to February – the weakest annual growth rate in 12 months.
What do the figures show? Home prices
The CoreLogic Home Value Index of national home prices rose by 1.1 per cent in February to stand 6.1 per cent higher over the year.
In capital cities, prices rose by 1.2 per cent to be up 7.3 per cent over the year to February. House prices rose by 1.2 per cent and apartment prices also lifted by 1.2 per cent. House prices were up 7.5 per cent on a year ago and prices of apartments increased by 6.9 per cent.
In regional areas, home prices rose by 0.7 per cent with houses up 0.8 per cent and apartment prices up by 0.3 per cent. Regional home prices were up 1.4 per cent on the year to February.
The average Australian capital city house price (median price) was $669,037 and the average unit price was $577,800 in February.
Home prices were higher in seven of the eight capital cities in February. Home prices rose by the most in Sydney (up by 1.7 per cent), followed by Melbourne (up by 1.2 per cent), Hobart (up by 0.8 per cent), Canberra (up by 0.8 per cent), Brisbane (up 0.6 per cent), Perth (up by 0.3 per cent), and Adelaide (up by 0.1 per cent). But Darwin prices fell by 1.4 per cent.
Home prices were higher than a year ago in six of the eight capital cities in February. Prices rose the most in Sydney (up by 10.9 per cent), followed by Melbourne (up by 10.7 per cent), Hobart (up by 5.0 per cent), Canberra (up by 4.1 per cent), Brisbane (up by 1.9 per cent) and Adelaide (up by 0.4 per cent). But prices were down in Darwin (down by 7.8 per cent) and Perth (down by 4.0 per cent).
Total returns on national dwellings rose by 10.1 per cent in the year to February with houses up by 9.9 per cent on a year earlier and units up by 10.5 per cent. In contrast, the S&amp;P/ASX All Ordinaries Accumulation Index lifted by 8.2 per cent over the year to February.
Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ indexes - February
The Australian Industry Group’s (AiGroup) Performance of Manufacturing Index fell by 1.1 points to a near 5-year low of 44.3 points in February. Any reading below 50 indicates contraction in activity.
The decline was driven by weaker exports (down 5.3 points to 44.5 points); slower production (down 4.8 points to 40.4 points); slower sales (down 2.3 points); and falling new orders (down 2.0 points to 41.7 points). But supplier deliveries (+2.8 points to 46.5 points); finished stocks (+0.7 points to 48.5 points) and employment (up 0.7 points to 49.1 points) all rose.
The AiGroup said, “All manufacturing sectors experienced weaker conditions in February than in January (trend). Food &amp; beverages is now the only manufacturing sector to be expanding (results over 50 points) but its growth has slowed significantly in recent months. All other sectors contracted in February and at a faster pace than in January (trend).”
“The production, sales, new orders and exports indices fell further into contraction in February and were firmly negative. COVID-19 is already denting exports of Australian manufactured goods, particularly consumable items into China. The ‘heavy’ manufacturing sectors are reporting supply chain disruptions because of freight and factory closures in China. Locally, drought remains a major concern in some parts of the country, despite better recent rain. The ‘metals’ and ‘building materials, wood, furniture &amp; other’ sectors reported weak demand from the construction industry.
The ‘final’ CBA/IHS Markit Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index rose by 0.6 points to 50.2 points in February. Any reading above 50 indicates an expansion in activity.
According to CBA/IHS Markit, “February saw a rise in the headline PMI, fuelled principally by longer delivery times as supply chains were affected due to the coronavirus outbreak. Output, new orders and employment all continued to fall, which saw firms cut back purchasing activity and tap into current inventories. Stocks of both inputs and finished goods fell. Business confidence, while positive, stayed below the historical average. On the price front, input price inflation remained solid, while charges grew at a slower pace.”
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
News over the weekend that China’s February manufacturing and services sector contracted by the most on record – due to the virus-induced shutdown of industry and supply chains – have increased investor concerns about a potential global recession. On Friday, US Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said that the US central bank is ready to cut interest rates to support the US economy.
Now money markets are convinced that Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Philip Lowe will ‘pull the trigger’ and cut rates to a record low 0.5 per cent tomorrow in an attempt to shield the Aussie economy from downturn in the education, tourism and resources sectors. While lower interest and mortgage rates are good news for those with a mortgage – boosting household cashflows due to lower borrowing costs – self-funded retirees relying on term deposits will be displeased.
The latest Aussie manufacturing activity indicators were mixed. The AiGroup factory activity measure is contracting by the most since 2015 with weak consumer demand and now the virus outbreak weighing on business confidence and conditions. Supply chains are being affected by reduced capacity and the shutdown of industry in China.
The one bright spot for the economy is the housing market. Home prices outside of Darwin are booming. Additional rate cuts by the Reserve Bank will provide even further impetus for investors searching for yield with Aussie shares down from record highs and government bond yields hitting record lows. Home values in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart and Melbourne all hit record highs in February.
RYAN FELSMAN is a Senior Economist for CommSec
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Residential property has outperformed shares: CommSec's Ryan Felsman

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The residential market throughout the Ballina Shire began the 2019 year somewhat slowly.
It came after heated market conditions throughout 2016, 2017 and early 2018, according to the December 2019 report from Herron Todd White (HTW). 
The valuation firm found that while market conditions were comparatively slow, no noticeable falls in value levels were experienced.
In the second half of 2019 there was a moderate increase in market activity, however local agents still report that listings need to be priced appropriately for any interest to be generated.
"The prestige market in the sought after coastal locations of Lennox Head, Skennars Head and East Ballina as well as the sought after rural localities towards the north of the Shire remain strong which can be partly attributed to the recent upswing in the Sydney and Melbourne markets," HTW said. 
"Local agents report limited stock available for sale across this market segment, creating some upward pressure on value levels, however again listings need to be priced appropriately."
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Ballina Shire residential property market strengthened in late 2019: HTW Residential

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A newly constructed duplex in Blackett, that features two almost-mirror-image dwellings attached to each other, has sold for $850,000 at recent auction.
Designated as 2 &amp; 2a on Manifold Road, the property features four bedrooms in each residence (eight total), three bathrooms in each residence (six total), and two single-car garages.  
The total land parcel comprises of roughly 484 square metres. 
The listing asserted a potential rental yield of up to 6% - substantially higher than the Sydney average.
Construction on the homes was completed last year.
The property was listed in December of 2018 at $1.03 million for both residences, or $525,000 individually, however failed to sell.
Blackett's median house price is $450,000.
Jack Nahas and Gokhan Deler, from Laing+Simmons Mount Druitt, listed the property.
 
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Blackett duplex sells at auction at around potential 6 percent yield

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Well, the dust has finally settled on the new legislation regarding the changes to depreciation that will apply to second-hand residential properties.
In this article we will dig deep into some of the questions we have commonly been asked since the 9th of May 2017, when the changes were announced in the Federal Budget.
Before we get into the nitty gritty let’s begin with a quick recap.
Property investors who acquire a second-hand residential property after May 10, 2017, that contain “previously used” depreciating assets, will no longer be able to claim depreciation on those assets. Depreciating assets, in this case, refers to things like ovens, dishwashers, blinds, etc.
As you already know, in 2017, the rule book on depreciation changed massively.
The Federal Government successfully voted on new legislation to change the way depreciation works, representing the biggest move in the industry that I’ve ever seen – and I’ve been a quantity surveyor for over 25 years!
The changes were effective as at 9 May 2017 at 7.30pm, when the federal budget was handed down. As you can imagine, they have huge implications for property investors and more importantly, the property equation, which we’ll go into later.
So, how have things changed exactly?
The best way to understand it is to break the changes down into nine simple key points:
<ol>
<li>If you acquire a second-hand residential property from 10 May 2017, which contains ‘previously used’ depreciating assets, you will no longer be able to claim depreciation on those assets. This refers to the plant and equipment portion of a depreciation schedule, including: Ovens, Dishwashers, Lights, Air-conditioners. Televisions, Carpets, Lounge suites, Blinds, Common property plant and equipment items. 
</li>
<li>However, the building allowance, or claims on the structure of the building, has not changed at all. You will still need a depreciation schedule to calculate these deductions, which typically accounts for 85% of the overall construction cost. The structure includes things like brickwork and concrete so there’s no change to that. 
</li>
<li>Acquirers of brand-new property will carry on claiming depreciation in exactly the same way as they have done so to-date – for both plant and equipment and structure. This is great news for the property industry, because a lot of developers rely on depreciation as part of their marketing strategy to attract investors. The government resisted making changes to depreciation on brand-new property because it did not want to halt construction, which would have impacted upon the supply of new property. A downturn in the construction industry would also have a knock-on effect – if tradies are out of work, they aren’t paying tax! 
</li>
<li>If you renovate a house while living in it, then sell the property to an investor, the assets will be deemed to have been previously used and the new owner cannot claim depreciation on the plant and equipment. 
</li>
<li>The proposed changes do not apply if you buy the property in a corporate tax entity, super fund (note self-managed super funds do not apply here) or a large unit trust. In other words, you can still buy a second-hand property in a company name and claim depreciation on it. You can buy a second-hand property in a super fund – as long as it’s a large one – and a large trust can buy a property as long as it has 300 members or more, and claim depreciation on that property. 
</li>
<li>The proposed changes only relate to residential property. Commercial, industrial, retail and other non-residential properties are not affected, so you can still buy a second-hand office or similar and continue to claim the second-hand carpet, exactly as you could before. You can’t do this for residential property, as I’ve explained above. 
</li>
<li>If you engage a builder to build a brand-new house, or do the work yourself and it remains an investment property, you will still be able to claim depreciation on both the structure and the plant and equipment items. This is because it’s brand new, and was brand new when you put in that oven. Therefore, you can still claim it because the costs are known. 
</li>
<li>If you engage a builder to renovate a property – or you do the work yourself – and it is also being used as an investment property, you will still be able to claim depreciation on it when you have finished the renovations. As above, this is because the assets you install are brand new, therefore you can still claim. But if you bought a property renovated by someone else and they lived in it for six months or a year and then sold it – you can’t claim depreciation on the oven and dishwasher, etc. in the future, because they have now been previously used. See the difference? 
</li>
<li>While investors purchasing second-hand property can now no longer claim depreciation on the existing plant and equipment, they will have the benefit of paying less capital gains tax when they sell the property. How? Well, when they replace or remove an item of plant &amp; equipment they would have been able to claim in depreciation under the previous legislation, the opening value of the asset can be claimed as a capital loss.</li>
</ol>
In my opinion, it seems like a lot of work to get the same result. The new rules have just moved depreciation from one line of the budget to another!
The good news is that the new legislation is ‘grandfathered’. That means that for everyone out there with an existing depreciation schedule, you can continue to claim exactly as you have been doing. So, if you bought a property prior to the budget – 9 May 2017 – nothing has changed. And if you have bought an investment prior to this date, and you don’t have a depreciation schedule, there’s never been a better time to get one! You might not get these allowances again.
One final point on grandfathering; if you bought a property prior to the budget and it is owner-occupied, and then you move out after 1 July 2017 – you will not be able to claim depreciation on the plant and equipment in that property.
Those items will be deemed to be previously used and caught in the net of the changing legislation – even though you acquired the property prior to the budget. So, these changes are kind of ‘half grandfathered’ if you ask me.
You will, however, still be able to claim the building allowance in this scenario if the property was built after 1987.
TYRON HYDE is a director of quantity surveying firm Washington Brown.
Read the <a href="https://www.washingtonbrown.com.au/blog/depreciation-budget-changes/?utm_source=ONTRAPORT-email-broadcast&amp;utm_medium=ONTRAPORT-email-broadcast&amp;utm_term=&amp;utm_content=The+New+Rules+-+We+wanted+to+make+sure+you+know&amp;utm_campaign=17092019" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Understanding new depreciation legislation on second hand residential property: Tyron Hyde

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National residential property prices fell 3 per cent in the March quarter 2019, according to figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Every capital city recorded falls in their property prices in the March quarter 2019, with the larger property markets of Sydney (-3.9 per cent) and Melbourne (-3.8 per cent) continuing to observe the largest falls.
The Bureau of Statistics also reported that the number of established house and attached home transfers in Sydney fell to 12,161 in the March quarter – the lowest level since March 2002.
In the March quarter 2019, property prices in Adelaide (-0.2 per cent) and Hobart (-0.4 per cent) recorded their first falls since March quarter 2013 and September quarter 2012 respectively. Falls were also recorded in Brisbane (-1.5 per cent), Perth (-1.1 per cent), Canberra (-0.9 per cent) and Darwin (-1.8 per cent).
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/19/17%20year%20low.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/19/17%20year%20low.JPG" alt="">
ABS Chief Economist, Bruce Hockman said, "these results are in line with soft housing market indicators, with sales transactions and auction clearance rates lower than one year ago, and days on market trending higher."
"A continuation of tight credit supply and reduced demand from investors and owner occupiers has contributed to weakness in property prices in all capital cities this quarter," he said.  Through the year growth in property prices fell 10.3 per cent in Sydney and 9.4 per cent in Melbourne. Adelaide (0.8 per cent) and Hobart (4.6 per cent) are the only capital cities recording positive through the year growth. The total value of Australia's 10.3 million residential dwellings fell by $172.7 billion to $6.6 trillion in the March quarter 2019. 
The average price for a home in Australia is now $636,900, and the total value of residential dwellings has fallen for four consecutive quarters, down from $6,957.2 billion in the March quarter 2018.
Residential dwellings prices has now fallen for five consecutive quarters, down from an average of $689,700 in the December quarter 2017.
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Sydney's residential sales activity at 17 year low: ABS

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Investors are positive about the long-term returns of Australian residential property, shrugging off concerns about stricter lending conditions, price bubbles and oversupply, a new survey has found.
More than 70% of the 742 respondents think now is a good time to invest in property, with 61% looking to purchase a property in the next six to 12 months (up from 58% last year), according to the third annual Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) Property Investor Sentiment Survey.
Surprisingly, Brisbane was at the top destination for property investors in spite of its apartment oversupply concerns, though the percentage who favoured the city fell from the last survey.
PIPA chair Ben Kingsley said that the survey results confirm that investors remain committed to property as a favourable investment option over the long-term.  
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/09/28/PIPA1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/09/28/PIPA1.png" alt="">
However, concerns over changes to investor lending policies loom large, with 43% of respondents reporting an adverse impact in their ability to secure finance, compared to 32% in 2016.  
Banks raising rates for interest-only loans was also a key concern, though more than half (55%) with interest-only loans said they would not struggle to meet new principal and interest repayments.
Higher borrowing costs also mean that investors are constantly looking for a better deal. 
More than 23% said they would consider refinancing their loan for an interest rate differential of 0.5 percentage points, while another 23% would consider refinancing for one percentage point.
According to the survey, only 15% of investors have put their buying plans on hold due to concerns around a property price "bubble". 
“Similar to last year, most property investors are looking past short-term challenges and are remaining focused on the long-term wealth benefits that are available from residential real estate,” said Kingsley.
Investors have also shrugged off speculation about negative gearing and capital gains tax changes, with only 14% putting their investment plans on hold.
The survey also shows that only half (52%) of property investors are currently negatively geared, with a majority (62%) of these expecting to become positively geared within five years. 
“The survey also affirms that a lot of the speculation about negative gearing misses the mark. Most investors understand that negative gearing is only a short-term cash flow position, not a property investment strategy. And only a very small minority are attracted to real estate for these tax concessions,” Kingsley said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/09/28/PIPA2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/09/28/PIPA2.png" alt="">
Despite being the most preferred destination for property investors, Brisbane has lost some appeal, with the proportion of investors favouring it falling from 49% to 43% over the past year. However, the city remains far ahead of any other capital city when it comes to investor interest. 
After Brisbane, Melbourne is the second most popular investment destination (32%), followed by Sydney (7.8%), Adelaide (6.6%) and Perth (5.5%).
“Property investors are becoming savvier. Many of them continue to look outside of our biggest property markets of Sydney and Melbourne, which are coming close to the peak of their cycles,” said Kingsley.
“The two key reasons that Brisbane still attracts investors are affordability and the potential for attractive yields. Brisbane is investing in infrastructure to make the city more liveable and investors are betting on this.”
Although investors are becoming more sophisticated, with 33% having a set strategy for investing, they overwhelmingly (84%) consider that more investment education about the risks and potential benefits of investing in property is needed. Even higher numbers (90%) believe that the property investment industry should be regulated and licensed in the same way as many other professionals.
“Unlike financial planning and mortgage broking, the provision of property investment advice still remains unregulated. PIPA is committed to raising the professional standards of this industry and will continue to lobby the government to regulate property investment advice and educate investors to help them make informed investment decisions,” Kingsley said.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Property investors confident on real estate returns despite despite pressures: PIPA survey

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Much has been written on Hobart’s market, now one of the strongest among the capital cities - but there’s more to the Tasmanian real estate up-cycle than the capital city.
Launceston also has a strong market and is now one of the leading markets in regional Australia.
Several Launceston suburbs have recorded double-digit median price growth in the past 12 months.
Launceston (the suburb within the city of the same name) recorded 16% growth in its median house price, Newstead rose 17%, Mayfield 11%, Mowbray 9% and Prospect Vale 8%.
There were some spectacular growth numbers in the city’s unit market as well, but median price data for units can be distorted and misleading. The median unit price for East Launceston is up 28%, but it’s unlikely values have risen to that degree.
The figures suggest the stock shortage seen in Hobart is also evident in Launceston. In January there were 1,900 listings for the Launceston area on realestate.com.au, but a recent check shows just 1,350 homes for sale.
Launceston prices have risen on the back of increases in sales activity, as revealed by the Spring survey for The Price Predictor Index by Hotspotting.
Launceston has eight suburbs with growth markets, while the nearby West Tamar LGA has three.
Affordable Invermay (median house price $230,000) is an example of the rising activity in this region. Its sales levels have grown from 19 to 22 to 24 to 29 to 34 to 37 in the past six quarters.
Launceston is a substantial regional city with a population around 80,000 and one with many historical features.
It’s the commercial hub for northern Tasmania’s agricultural and pastoral activities which, in recent years, have evolved from the growing of apples to viticulture.
Wool is also an important industry while $130 million has been spent on the Meander Dam and irrigation infrastructure to support the agricultural sector, according to the Meander Valley Council.
But agriculture and history are not the only parts of Launceston’s character - it has a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, minerals and resources, commercial shipping, tourism and educational facilities.
Pharmaceuticals manufacturing earns the region about $130 million each year. Tasmanian Alkaloids, located near Westbury, is the largest exporter of thebaine and oripavine (both opiates from which codeine and morphine are derived) used in the world.
The company employs 200 local people including scientists and engineers, while about 500 Tasmanian farmers are contracted to produce 50% of the world’s licit opiate supply.
With the signing in April of the Launceston City Deal by the Federal Government, State Government and City of Launceston, the city’s future prospects have strengthened.
The five-year plan will ensure investment in serious infrastructure, the headline act being the $260 million redevelopment and relocation of University of Tasmania’s main Launceston campus to Inveresk.
The new campus is projected to increase economic output in the local community by $360 million a year over 10 years, with an estimated direct and indirect economic impact of $965 million during the construction phase.
It is projected to create 2,760 jobs, including 430 jobs during construction. It will provide the capacity to grow student participation by 10,000 students by 2030, including 1,500 international students, and will eventually house 16,000 students, researchers and staff.
Against that backdrop, interest in Launceston real estate from interstate investors is rising – and with it, house prices.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="mailto:%20%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'%3E%20%3C!--%20var%20prefix%20=%20'ma'%20+%20'il'%20+%20'to';%20var%20path%20=%20'hr'%20+%20'ef'%20+%20'=';%20var%20addy38821%20=%20'ryder'%20+%20'@';%20addy38821%20=%20addy38821%20+%20'hotspotting'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'com'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'au';%20document.write('%3Ca%20'%20+%20path%20+%20'/''%20+%20prefix%20+%20':'%20+%20addy38821%20+%20'/'%3E');%20document.write(addy38821);%20document.write('%3C//a%3E');%20//--%3E/n%20%3C/script%3E%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
 
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