<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:ca872054-bfe3-4cc5-a2c8-b373d4dfeafb-2" dir="auto">
A completed Castle Hill apartment development is returning to market with an uncommon level of financial backing, positioning it as one of the more secure options for buyers in Sydney’s north-west.

Skyview in Castle Hill, originally developed by Top Place and now overseen by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, is being relaunched following a full remediation process. Central to its repositioning is a substantial financial reserve designed to provide ongoing protection and reduce uncertainty for incoming purchasers.

At the core of this offering is an $11 million bond secured during the project’s remediation phase, negotiated by former NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler. With less than $4 million required to complete the works, approximately $7.2 million remains in reserve, with around 15 years left on the term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359134]

Rather than a typical insurance-backed structure, the remaining funds are held as cash, creating a readily accessible financial buffer should any future building issues arise. The structure is intended to provide buyers with an added layer of certainty, differentiating the development from more conventional apartment offerings.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure provides a level of security not typically seen in apartment developments.

“The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers,” Huxley said.

“Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359135]

The remediation process has now been completed in full, with no active rectification orders or outstanding directives linked to the project on NSW Government registers. This outcome reflects the broader tightening of building oversight across the state, while also highlighting the project’s transition into a completed, compliant asset.

In a market where many buyers remain cautious about apartment quality, initiatives like this are designed to restore confidence, giving purchasers greater certainty and a stronger sense of security in their investment.

Equitifund has since acquired the remaining apartments and is managing their reintroduction to the market. With the works finalised and a significant financial reserve in place, the project now presents with a markedly different risk profile compared to its initial release.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359137]

Beyond the added security, the development is positioned in one of Castle Hill’s more established pockets. The Gay Street address places it within close proximity to Castle Towers, one of the country’s largest retail centres, as well as Castle Hill Metro Station, which now connects directly to the broader Sydney Metro network.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said buyer demand in the area continues to be driven by access to transport and amenity.

“Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre,” Hamblett said.

“There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359145]

The apartments also enter the market at a relatively accessible price point for the area, with two-bedroom configurations starting from $995,000 and rental demand for similar stock reaching around $900 per week. This combination of pricing, connectivity, and completed status is expected to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors seeking lower-risk entry into the Hills District apartment market.

For eligible buyers, a limited 3.50 per cent p.a. two-year fixed interest rate is currently available through Equitifund’s lending partners, providing an additional layer of affordability.

EquitiCredit Pty Ltd ACN 676 363 769 holds ACL 559289 and provides credit assistance. Finance is arranged through EquitiCredit and funded by its lending partners. Interest rates are subject to change and eligibility criteria apply. Terms, conditions, fees and charges may apply. This is not financial advice and should not be relied upon as such. Prospective buyers should seek independent financial advice.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]
</section>

Joel Robinson

Castle Hill apartments offering unmatched buyer protection through dedicated fund

A State-Assessed Rezoning Proposal for the Kurnell Peninsula is now on public exhibition, setting out a plan to deliver up to 4,300 homes alongside new retail, tourism and public open space on a 210-hectare coastal site.

The proposal, backed by the Minns Labor Government, would transform a former sand mining area along Captain Cook Drive into a mixed-use precinct delivered over approximately 20 years.

In addition to housing, the plan includes more than 7,000 sqm of retail and commercial space, new community facilities and approximately 116 hectares of open space, equating to more than half the site.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ce1c6567-1df0-4de0-9fe5-a76be0367834" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.51%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=dbbTmYaJvROA5fkQbgaxis8cmFwtpB5_" />

<hr data-end="849" data-start="846" />
<h2 data-end="902" data-section-id="ony3l3" data-start="851">Rezoning framework enables mixed-use development</h2>

The rezoning application seeks to amend planning controls under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Precincts—Central River City) and the Sutherland Shire Local Environmental Plan 2015.

Its primary objective is to enable a broader range of land uses across the site, including residential, employment, tourism and community uses, while also formalising environmental protections and land management outcomes .

The proposal has progressed through the state-led rezoning pathway after being identified as a project of regional significance, supported by several years of technical studies and agency consultation .

Development would occur in stages, aligned with the progressive closure and remediation of the existing sand mine.

<hr data-end="1718" data-start="1715" />
<h2 data-end="1768" data-section-id="krwii9" data-start="1720">Master plan structured around three precincts</h2>

The accompanying urban design report outlines an indicative master plan that divides the site into three primary precincts, anchored by a town centre in the western portion of the site.

The town centre is planned as the first stage of development, located on land that has already been remediated. It is intended to accommodate higher-density housing, retail, and community uses.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4bfd5873-4847-4105-b220-0a30c96f5573" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.20.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7aVaSsZLAc6mElSH4g6Ct5bGsNxZcnPL" />

Additional precincts extend toward Bate Bay and Boat Harbour, with built form responding to environmental conditions and proximity to the coastline.

The design framework identifies distinct local character areas, with the master plan structured to reflect “unique natural qualities” across the site.

<hr data-end="2495" data-start="2492" />
<h2 data-end="2544" data-section-id="1vitwqn" data-start="2497">Open space forms core of the design approach</h2>

A key component of the proposal is the allocation of approximately 116 hectares to open space and ecological land.

This includes:

<ul data-end="2846" data-start="2678">
	<li data-end="2702" data-section-id="d96caj" data-start="2678">Three district parks</li>
	<li data-end="2723" data-section-id="17y6uz6" data-start="2703">Nine local parks</li>
	<li data-end="2741" data-section-id="14hui00" data-start="2724">Sports fields</li>
	<li data-end="2778" data-section-id="ts7psx" data-start="2742">Coastal and ecological corridors</li>
	<li data-end="2846" data-section-id="agduax" data-start="2779">Two kilometres of publicly accessible beachfront along Bate Bay</li>
</ul>

The urban design report positions this open space network as central to the structure of the development, rather than ancillary to it.

It is intended to support ecological regeneration, provide recreational amenity and create a connected network across the peninsula.

The plan includes north–south ecological corridors, expanded wetland systems and pedestrian and cycling links designed to connect residential areas to the coastline and open space areas .

<hr data-end="3347" data-start="3344" />
<h2 data-end="3381" data-section-id="ql66rt" data-start="3349">Housing mix and affordability</h2>

The proposal includes approximately 4,300 dwellings across a range of housing types.

This includes high-density apartments, medium-density housing, townhouses and seniors housing.

Affordable housing provision is identified at approximately 240 dwellings, alongside a smaller component of social housing.

The master plan emphasises housing diversity, with the intent of accommodating a range of household types and age groups within the development.

<img alt="Kurnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d4baba4d-b5b0-4a86-bcad-5d319b036184" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-13%20at%209.11.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=udYFz0q8tjEPR3pmKLHRSFRJN4dKakPO" />

<hr data-end="3877" data-start="3874" />
<h2 data-end="3919" data-section-id="rgckdv" data-start="3879">Built form controls and height limits</h2>

Proposed building heights across the site range from three to 12 storeys.

These controls are set out within the rezoning application and are intended to manage visual impact, maintain view corridors and ensure compatibility with the coastal landscape.

Floor space ratios and height limits are applied across different parts of the site to reflect varying environmental conditions and proximity to open space and the coastline .

Higher density is generally concentrated within the town centre, with lower-scale development toward the coastal edge and environmentally sensitive areas.

<hr data-end="4548" data-start="4545" />
<h2 data-end="4588" data-section-id="1minlda" data-start="4550">Retail, tourism and employment uses</h2>

In addition to residential development, the proposal includes retail, commercial and tourism uses.

This includes:

<ul data-end="4896" data-start="4706">
	<li data-end="4775" data-section-id="1jrun76" data-start="4706">Approximately 7,000–9,800sqm of retail and commercial floor space</li>
	<li data-end="4803" data-section-id="10kyifw" data-start="4776">A full-line supermarket</li>
	<li data-end="4830" data-section-id="fz1hdg" data-start="4804">Food and beverage uses</li>
	<li data-end="4896" data-section-id="1aqg2fj" data-start="4831">Tourism accommodation, including hotel and short-stay options</li>
</ul>

The proposal also identifies employment outcomes, with the development expected to support jobs both during construction and in ongoing operations.

These uses are concentrated within the town centre and key activity areas across the site.

<hr data-end="5142" data-start="5139" />
<h2 data-end="5172" data-section-id="162x2kt" data-start="5144">Infrastructure and access</h2>

The proposal includes upgrades to Captain Cook Drive, which provides the primary access to the peninsula.

These upgrades are intended to improve traffic flow and support emergency access.

The transport strategy also incorporates:

<ul data-end="5529" data-start="5407">
	<li data-end="5433" data-section-id="fanquy" data-start="5407">Internal road networks</li>
	<li data-end="5469" data-section-id="o6y80y" data-start="5434">Walking and cycling connections</li>
	<li data-end="5529" data-section-id="jgraft" data-start="5470">Proposed public transport routes and bus stop locations</li>
</ul>

The rezoning report includes detailed analysis of transport, flooding, and infrastructure requirements to support the staged development of the site .

<hr data-end="5723" data-start="5720" />
<h2 data-end="5769" data-section-id="14urh3" data-start="5725">Environmental and cultural considerations</h2>

The site is identified as having environmental and cultural significance, including areas of ecological value and Aboriginal archaeological sensitivity.

The proposal includes measures to protect and enhance these areas, including:

<ul data-end="6230" data-start="6004">
	<li data-end="6056" data-section-id="1pzyouo" data-start="6004">Retention and regeneration of coastal vegetation</li>
	<li data-end="6100" data-section-id="bjn2vz" data-start="6057">Strengthening of biodiversity corridors</li>
	<li data-end="6148" data-section-id="1bpeyoj" data-start="6101">Protection of riparian systems and wetlands</li>
	<li data-end="6230" data-section-id="lg0cka" data-start="6149">Integration of cultural interpretation and recognition of Indigenous heritage</li>
</ul>

The urban design report also outlines opportunities for incorporating Indigenous cultural elements into public spaces and landscape design.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">Next steps</h2>

The proposal is currently on public exhibition, with submissions open to the community. Feedback received during this period will inform the Department of Planning’s assessment of the rezoning.

If approved, the rezoning would establish the planning framework for future development applications across the site.

<hr data-end="6893" data-start="6890" />
<h2 data-end="6908" data-section-id="w7rk5f" data-start="6895">What the NSW Government says</h2>

Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully said the planned closure of the sand mine and remediation of the Kurnell Peninsula presents an exciting opportunity to transform the area.

“This proposal envisions a vibrant new beachfront community with thousands of new homes, jobs and great open space in the Sutherland Shire. I encourage the community to have their say during the public exhibition period. Feedback from the community will play an important role in the assessment of the proposal.”

Sydney's newest beachfront city: NSW Gov to unlock 4,300 new homes on Kurnell peninsula

A long-awaited transformation of a former industrial site in Holroyd has been given the green light, with the NSW Government approving the $1.2 billion Crescent Parklands masterplan that will deliver more than 1,200 new homes just south of Parramatta.

The State Significant Development approval clears the way for a large-scale mixed-use precinct at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-crescent-street-holroyd-nsw-2142">1 Crescent Street</a>, replacing an underutilised site with a coordinated residential community anchored by new open space, retail, and commercial uses.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> for WA-based developer Tiberius, the approved scheme comprises seven buildings arranged across two precincts. In total, the development will deliver 1,227 apartments, including 201 allocated as affordable housing, alongside approximately 2,500 sqm of retail and 5,000 sqm of commercial space within a mixed-use podium.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1cc82dd2-8184-4b86-8665-90653147820d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20buildings.png?VersionId=2ZmVDc_Rfc4AzQ6ShzZJlvdZnACLerVM" />

The project is structured as a masterplanned precinct rather than a standalone tower. Buildings 1 to 4 will rise from a shared podium with shop-top housing, while Buildings 5 to 7 are positioned closer to the northern park interface as residential flat buildings. The built form has been carefully modulated to balance density with amenity, with the design resolving building separation, solar access, and wind impacts at a precinct scale.

A significant focus of the design is the activation of Crescent Street and the integration of public domain. The submission notes that “individual townhouses [were] removed for community based functions to Crescent Street to increase activation and surveillance,” reinforcing a more urban and publicly engaged street edge. Retail, commercial tenancies, and resident amenity spaces are concentrated along this frontage and within the podium to support day-to-day activity.

The landscape strategy underpins the project’s identity, with a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped corridors, and open spaces linking the site internally and to its surroundings. The design prioritises permeability, delivering “increased uninterrupted flow between spaces for pedestrian access” and improved connections through to the adjoining parklands.

<img alt="Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver 1,200+ homes in major Holroyd transformation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19282454-ab2f-4e2c-866f-4b35cf4283d4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Crescent%20masterplan.png?VersionId=JQdWGYI5B5R1lzmK4omYOp_8KLPkT4Bv" />

Buildings within the western precinct are oriented toward the park, shaping a residential offering defined by proximity to open space. The design describes this approach as creating apartments “immersed in nature with apartments facing the park,” positioning the landscape as a central organising element of the masterplan.

The broader architectural response addresses both infrastructure and context, with taller elements capturing long-range views toward Parramatta while setbacks and separation distances mitigate impacts on surrounding residential areas. Sustainability initiatives, including solar optimisation, cross-ventilation, and integrated landscape systems, are embedded across the scheme.

Located approximately one kilometre south of Parramatta CBD, the 3.6-hectare site is bounded by Crescent Street, Woodville Road, and Holroyd Sportsground. It benefits from strong access to public transport, including nearby bus routes and train stations, and sits within a rapidly evolving corridor earmarked for increased residential density. The design also strengthens connections between surrounding green spaces, including Holroyd Sportsground and Parramatta Parklands.

The approval follows several years of planning, including a rezoning process that enabled significant uplift in height and density across the site. With determination now secured, Crescent Parklands is positioned to play a major role in delivering new housing supply within Greater Parramatta’s growth area.

Tiberius’ Crescent Parklands to deliver over 1,200 homes in major Holroyd transformation

A new State Significant Development application has been lodged over land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-43-marion-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">33–43 Marion Street</a>, Parramatta, proposing a high-rise mixed-use tower that leverages planning incentives to deliver a substantial pipeline of new housing, including a dedicated affordable component.

The scheme, currently on exhibition, combines a shop-top housing development with a concurrent rezoning, positioning the site for a significant uplift in density within Parramatta’s evolving southern CBD fringe.

The proposal, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fuse-architecture-0">Fuse Architects</a> for CN Marion, would replace the existing buildings with a 37-storey mixed-use tower, delivering 296 apartments above a retail podium with six basement levels on the 2,376 sqm site.

The residential mix comprises 58 one-bedroom, 207 two-bedroom, and 31 three-bedroom apartments, with communal facilities located on the second level and the rooftop. Ground-level activation is driven by retail and food and beverage tenancies, alongside a publicly accessible through-site link designed to improve pedestrian permeability.

The project includes 194 car spaces, five motorcycle spaces, and 348 bicycle spaces, reflecting a transit-oriented approach in a location directly adjacent to the rail corridor and within walking distance of Harris Park Station.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower with affordable housing at 33–43 Marion Street, Parramatta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db873ea-62f0-437b-8a6a-eeda154d2dee" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Marion%20building.png?VersionId=YwzBv8OVHwyRnMLGX4slU7QyhTyMZeOX" />

The design adopts a podium-and-tower composition, with a three-storey street wall addressing Marion Street and a reduced two-storey interface responding to adjoining heritage cottages.

A key component of the proposal is the integration of affordable housing under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing pathway, with units to be retained for a minimum of 15 years. This is paired with a broader public domain strategy that emphasises permeability, deep soil planting, and a landscaped through-site link.

“The strategy prioritises a permeable, well-activated public realm and supports a compact tower form to minimise the building’s footprint while enhancing the quality of the ground-level experience,” the design report states.

The proposal includes a central landscaped courtyard, rooftop communal areas, and planting strategies aligned with local environmental conditions and cultural narratives.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower with affordable housing at 33–43 Marion Street, Parramatta" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f0e6c165-9967-4d20-9216-e5b8357c85ba" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Marion%20site.png?VersionId=SRod222LwgDmGZJmJY0wTbK39UrWZLSD" />

The site occupies a prominent corner of Marion and Station streets, roughly 100 metres from Harris Park Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant intensification. While the immediate context is characterised by low- to mid-rise buildings and heritage dwellings, planning controls and recent proposals point to a transition toward high-density development.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:c78224e4-1dd1-48ac-afda-97fe23bac47e-0" dir="auto">
Parramatta has been starved of new apartment supply in recent years. Builder-developers Deicorp and Coronation are the only two currently progressing projects in the suburb. Coronation is nearing completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/8-phillip-street-2-10-phillip-street-parramatta">8 Phillip Street</a>, which will be the tallest building in Western Sydney once finished, while Deicorp is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cosmopolitan-by-deicorp-parramatta-34-hassall-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Cosmopolitan</a>, a development comprising over 600 apartments.
</section>

First Look: Plans lodged for 37-storey mixed-use tower in Parramatta

A substantial uplift in height and density is being tested in Lane Cove, with a 225-apartment scheme at 300 Burns Bay Road now on public exhibition as a State Significant Development alongside a concurrent rezoning.

The proposal by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> would see the demolition of an existing commercial building and associated structures, replaced by a residential development ranging from seven to 15 storeys.&nbsp;

The scheme delivers 225 apartments, including 34 designated as affordable housing, positioning it within the NSW Government’s accelerated Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The development is arranged as three interconnected residential flat buildings, a response to the site’s long, narrow configuration and sloping topography.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: 225-apartment Lane Cove tower proposal enters exhibition under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c325d40c-ead5-45f4-9d77-5a446b23acc0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Lane%20Cove%20pers.png?VersionId=hsCJxT5hj.5kzA6AMInyan1x8mcHeRez" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, the project’s designer, describe a built form that is “divided into three sections, each connected by intermediate infill slots which are recessed to establish greater setbacks and further articulate the development.”

Across the scheme, apartments are supported by communal amenity at ground and rooftop levels, including landscaped open space and a rooftop pool. Basement and lower ground levels accommodate parking, storage, and building services, while a new public park is proposed along the eastern edge of the site, replacing part of the existing built form.

The architectural response has been shaped by the site’s pronounced fall towards the Lane Cove River, with building heights stepping down from west to east to reduce visual bulk and respond to adjoining bushland.&nbsp;

The design report notes that “the development has been carefully designed to integrate with the existing topography with the placement of massing and floor levels adjusted respecting the site’s inherent characteristics.”

<img alt="First look: 225-apartment Lane Cove tower proposal enters exhibition under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="31cc13a5-bc8b-4dc3-b9b1-07c6ec33a82b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Lane%20cove%20site.png?VersionId=NiyH3LimQwiHsE6Q7I5g4Grpr5fRdZaX" />

The project is being advanced through a concurrent rezoning process, seeking to increase the permissible height and floor space ratio beyond current Lane Cove LEP controls of 21 metres. Under the proposal, height would reach up to 54.5 metres, reflecting a shift toward higher-density outcomes in well-located urban areas.

Located on a 7,595 sqm site, the development sits within an established high-density residential pocket characterised by mid-rise apartment buildings set within a bushland setting. The site is within close proximity to Burns Bay Reserve, the Lane Cove River, and an extensive network of open space, reinforcing its strategic positioning for increased housing supply.

Level 33 is doing through the Housing Delivery Authority to try and get its Homebush project of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/level-33-adds-to-2-000-unit-pipeline-with-new-two-tower-homebush-plans">more than 300 apartments approved</a>.

The developer has over 2,000 apartments in the pipeline, predominantly in Wollongong.

First look: Level 33 proposes 225-apartment Lane Cove tower

Residential Sales

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This week, CoreLogic RP Data is expecting 2,842 auctions across the capital city markets, the highest number of weekly auctions since the week leading up to Easter, when 3,668 capital city auctions were held.
The rise in volumes comes of the back of a lower clearance rate last week, when the final results reported a combined capital city weighted average of 69.9 per cent, the lowest clearance rate since February this year. The lower result was driven by a fall across Sydney, where 70.7 per cent of auctions were successful last week, the lowest clearance rate for the city this year.
Melbourne and Sydney are both expecting a high volume of auctions this week, with 1,206 scheduled in Melbourne and 1,198 in Sydney. In comparison, last week 1,127 Melbourne auctions were held and 1,041 in Sydney.
Last week, Adelaide’s clearance rate was 71.4 per cent, the second strongest result for any capital city (following Melbourne at 73.7 per cent) and this week Adelaide auction volumes are set to rise from 99 last week to 130. Similarly, Brisbane auction volumes are also on the rise, with 202 auctions this week, compared to 143 last week
Canberra (58 this week compared to 118 last week) and Perth (25 this week compared to 31 last week) are the only two cities where the number of auctions is down week on week, however, both cities current auction activity is higher than it was one year ago.
The Australian suburb with the highest number of auctions this week is Reservoir (Vic) where 23 residential auctions will be held. Following on from this is Mosman (NSW) with 19, Preston (Vic) with 17 and Glen Waverley (Vic) with 16.
 
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Busiest week for auctions since before Easter: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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As a result of new lending criteria delivered to deposit-taking institutions by Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) a lot of attention has been placed on the pace of lending for residential housing investment. 
The APRA guidelines highlighted a limit on annual investment credit growth for ADIs of 10% however, from that point until June 2015 the annual rate of investment credit growth continued to increase.
<a href="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.30.35%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.30.35%20PM.png" alt="">
 
Although it’s only one month of data, the latest housing credit data to July 2015 suggests that we may be finally set to see a slowing of investment credit growth. 
Over the 12 months to July 2015, the Reserve Bank (RBA) reports that total housing credit rose by 7.4%; its fastest annual rate of growth since October 2010, and consisted of a 5.3% annual increase in owner occupier credit (fastest growth since March 2012) and a 10.8% annual rise in investor credit.
<a href="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.31.43%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.31.43%20PM.png" alt="">
 
Investor housing credit is still growing at a robust pace however, at 10.8% over the year it is down from 11.1% in June and at its lowest level since March 2015. “In fact, the monthly investor housing credit data shows credit advanced by just 0.6% in July which was its lowest monthly increase since October 2013. 
Investment segment lending data on the investment segment suggests that following recent changes to lending policies by Australian ADIs, lending to the investment segment of the market is set to slow further over the coming months. 
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With mortgage rates remaining low we would anticipate the rate of growth will slow to around the 10% per annum benchmark, however this is unlikely to drop much further than that.
While any slowdown in investment growth may have an impact on overall housing credit figures, Mr Kusher noted that it’s important to recall that a much greater proportion of overall lending goes to owner occupiers. 
In July 2015, the total value of outstanding housing credit was $1.476 trillion. This figure was comprised of $906.4 billion in lending to owner occupiers and $569.8 billion to investors. 
It’s important to remember that the rate of growth in owner occupier lending has also been rising although over the past year there was a $45.2 billion expansion in credit to owner occupiers compared to $56.1 billion to investors. Furthermore, the proportion of total mortgage credit to investors is at a record high 38.6%. 
ADIs of course don’t lend exclusively for mortgages and the latest data shows an encouraging lift in credit to businesses. In July 2015 business credit rose by 0.7% to be 4.8% higher over the year. Total business credit is currently recorded at $799.7 billion, which is significantly larger than investment housing credit.
<a href="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.33.38%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/09/03/Screen%20Shot%202015-09-03%20at%2012.33.38%20PM.png" alt="">
 
The RBA and APRA are likely to be very encouraged to see the first signs of a slowing of lending to the investment housing segment and would hope that it continues over the coming months. 
While this may result in a slight slowing in overall housing credit growth increases, this shouldn’t be viewed as a negative outcome. If the recent increase in business credit can continue it would arguably provide greater economic benefit. 
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Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/author/cameron-kusher/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Has growth in investor housing credit reached its apex? Cameron Kusher

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SPONSORED POST
Millers Point has one of the richest cultural and architectural histories in Sydney, with picturesque heritage buildings and historical landmarks.
Boasting breath-taking views, tree-lined streets and the serene tranquillity of Observatory Hill, as well as an energetic arts and cultural scene, Millers Point has something for everyone.
It’s a mere moment’s stroll to the theatres, cafes and restaurants of the Walsh Bay arts and cultural scene, the bustling shops and pubs of The Rocks, or a quick trip into Sydney’s CBD.
The doorstep of The Rocks
Framed by Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House, and nestled on the edge of breathtaking Sydney Harbour, The Rocks offers an unrivalled blend of the old and new.
From intimate heritage architecture and cobblestoned laneways, to stylish modern bars, some of Sydney’s finest restaurants and curious places to shop and explore.
With the MCA as one of its modern ambassadors, The Rocks is emerging as Sydney’s new cultural precinct, and has been transformed into a creative nucleus of contemporary art, festivals and evolving pop-up spaces.
The Rocks: it’s a perfect blend of culture, cuisine and experiences that are worth savouring.
For more information on Millers Point and The Rocks visit <a href="https://www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au" target="_blank">www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au</a>
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Millers Point – the heart of Sydney

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The NSW Government’s Millers Point sales program continues to deliver excellent results with the auction of seven properties in late 2016 for a combined $35.22million.
The sales included the highest value single property sold to date – a block of 12 one bedroom apartments on the corner of Merriman and Bettington streets, which sold for $12.3 million.
Interest in Millers Point continues to be strong, with the most recent sales recording an average rate per square metre of $19,462 (floor area), an increase of 23 per cent compared to the Millers Point sales program to date.
Other properties sold include:
<ul>
<li>15 Lower Fort Street, sold for $5.05 million.</li>
<li>36 Argyle Place, sold for $3.71 million</li>
<li>66 Bettington Street, sold for $2.42 million</li>
<li>61 Kent Street, sold for $2.11 million</li>
<li>42-44A High Street, sold for $4.81 million.</li>
<li>46-48A High Street, sold for $4.82 million.</li>
</ul>
A total of 125 Government - owned properties in Millers Point have been sold to date, with the proceeds delivering much needed social housing for the 60,000 vulnerable families and individuals on the waiting list.
For more information visit <a href="https://www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au" target="_blank">www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au</a>
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Millers Point delivers $35 million in one day

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Chinese capital has a huge role to play in Australia's housing market over the next few years, for better or for worse. 
But there are some looming obstacles. 
New South Wales recently introduced a 4 percent stamp duty surcharge for non-resident buyers, with a 0.75 percent land tax. 
Harsh, yes, but not as onerous for apartment buyers as the 7 percent stamp duty surcharge that became effective from 1 July in Victoria, while Queensland has also introduced a 3 percent surcharge. 
Meanwhile, banks and brokers fearing investigation have become extremely reluctant to lend to non-resident buyers declaring only foreign income. 
With a record volume of apartments due for completion over the next two years, and many of these having been bought off the plan by overseas buyers, one way or another one feels that something has to give. 
Fork...
At this juncture it feels like it could go either way.
We know that Australia (and particularly Melbourne and Sydney) is a favourite destination for Chinese capital. 
Across the drink, Vancouver recently introduced a monster 15 percent tax on non-residents which has turned Chinese investors away and is pushing that housing market south. 
This could in turn lead more Chinese buyers to look at Australia as the destination for their fleeing capital.
Although prices have gotten more expensive in Australia for local buyers, thanks to foreign exchange movements this is not so for the Chinese. 
Unit prices may have increased by 41 percent over the last four years in Sydney, for example, but when translated into CNY prices have not moved up at all in real terms. 
<a href="/images/2016/09/28/CNY.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
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Chinese buyers... where to from here? Pete Wargent

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<div>Auction clearance rates are still booming along in Sydney's eastern suburbs, with a preliminary clearance rate of 84.3% recorded, with the inner west also on fire at 83.8%, according to CoreLogic-RP Data.</div>
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<div>Cameron Kusher of CoreLogic-RP Data has pointed out that every sub-region of Sydney has recorded auction clearance rates of above 80% at some point this year.</div>
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<div>How then has the city-wide clearance rate slipped all the way back to 64.4%?</div>
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<div>The unfortunate truth is that those suckered in to buying late in the cycle in outer western (30 per cent) and south-western Sydney (52.8 per cent) may well soon be sitting on a pile of negative equity, while home loan arrears have tended to be more elevated too. No real surprises here. </div>
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<div>Soft preliminary clearance rates were also recorded for the Central Coast (30%), Baulkham Hills &amp; Hawkesbury (38.5%), Blacktown (42.1%), and Parramatta (39.7%), while the outer south-west may fail to record a single auction sale.</div>
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<div>Of course, not all properties are sold at auction, and preliminary clearance rates by sub-region are essentially only an indicator of market sentiment. </div>
<div>
 Deutsche Bank has put out a research note which indicates that historically Sydney auction clearance rates have needed to decline to around 45% in order to be accompanied by year-on-year price declines. While certain inner suburban clearance rates remain very high as noted above, the above figures represent further evidence that in many areas away from the inner suburbs the investor market has been knocked for six by increased deposit requirements, and stock on market is now rising. Sydney will have some big auction weekends to muddle through before the Christmas break, in the meantime watch out for any handover to owner-occupier mortgage lending.</div>
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PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
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Auctions fading to black in Sydney outer: Pete Wargent

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As they do every year, new listings increased over the first month of spring, with further additions of stock to the market expected to ramp up until the end of year slow-down in December.
In addition to the number of listings being added to the market CoreLogic RP Data’s lead listings indicator is also showing a 1.6% month-on-month change (seasonally adjusted), with Tasmania (+5.2%) and Victoria (3.4%) showing the most activity of listings being prepared for sale.
In terms of listing stock, the largest proportionate increases this month relative to last month have been observed in Brisbane, where the number of residential properties added to the market over the four weeks ending 27 September was 12.9% higher than the four week period a month earlier. Following Brisbane was Hobart (12.5% higher) and Adelaide (11.0% higher).
Despite the increase in new listings, total stock levels remain just 1.2 per cent higher relative to one year ago across the combined capital cities, while nationally; total listings are -0.6 per cent lower. As at 27 September, there were 234,094 residential properties available for sale across Australia, while one year ago, there were 235,399.
When compared to last year, across the capital cities, total listings are higher in Perth (+20.7%), Darwin (+12.3%) and for the first time this year, Sydney (+4.7%). In Sydney, one of the reasons the total stock levels are now higher than one year ago is likely due to the increase in stock being added to the market. New listings across the city are 16 per cent higher than one year ago, to put this into perspective, over the comparable 28 day period one year ago, 7,431 listings were newly added to the market, compared to 8,617 this year.
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Across the individual states and territories, there are more listings than one year ago in Western Australia, Northern Territory (both +12.9%) and to a lesser degree, South Australia (+2.2%), while across these three regions, the number of new listings added to the market over the past four weeks is lower than one year ago. In all other states and territories, total listings are currently lower than they were relative to last year.
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First month of spring returns lift in new listings: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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Prior to this week, the year to date clearance rate across the combined capital cities was 76.9%, indicating that this week’s preliminary clearance rate of 77.7% is performing above this level. 
This week, there were 1,998 auctions held across Australia’s capital cities, with 1,307 results reported so far. Over the previous week, 1,827 residential auctions were held with a clearance rate of 75.4%. In comparison, at the same time last year 67.9% of the 1,705 auctions were sold, indicating the current auction conditions remain stronger than they were one year ago.
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The preliminary clearance rate across Melbourne was recorded at 76.5% this week across 638 auction results. There were 845 auctions held across the city this week, up from 759 last week when the final auction clearance rate was recorded at 76.0% and similarly, higher than at the same time last year when there were 736 Melbourne auctions with 68.5% of homes selling. This week, there were 3 sub regions which recorded a clearance rate above 80%; Outer East at 89.0%, North West at 82.5% and North East at 82.2%. The region with the highest volume of auctions this week was the Inner region (141).
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For Sydney, the clearance rate across the city this week increased, up to 82.7% from 79.7% last week and 75.4% at the same time last year. Across the city, 841 homes were taken to auction this week, more than last week (794) and significantly higher than one year ago, when 660 Sydney auctions were held. Since mid-August, Sydney’s auction clearance rate has been trending downwards, after the city has seen a record strong performance over the first six months of the year. Despite this, the clearance rate still remains stronger than any other capital city and there are still sub-regions across the city where the clearance rate remains above the 90 per cent mark including Ryde, Eastern Suburbs, Inner West and City and Inner South.
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This week, Brisbane’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 66.0%, compared to 60.2% the previous week and just 44.7% last year. So far, 17 Gold Coast auction results have been reported and the clearance rate for the region is 64.7%.
 
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There were 80 Adelaide auctions this week, with a clearance rate of 60.6% across the 33 results reported so far. Last week, Adelaide’s final auction clearance rate was 64.3%, while one year ago the city saw 60.3% of homes taken to auction sell.
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Across Perth, 10 auctions have been reported so far with a clearance rate of 80.0%, compared to just 18.8% last week and 50.0% at the same time last year. Perth’s clearance rate is often subjected to highs and lows given the low volume of auctions across the city.
Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate was 80.0% this week across 25 results. Last week, 82.1% of Canberra auctions were successful, the second strongest result for the city so far this year.
So far this week, 4 Tasmanian auctions have been reported and of these reported results there has been 1 sale.
 
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Brisbane auctions highest preliminary clearance since 2009: CoreLogic RP Data's Shana Miller

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The list of the most affordable capital city suburbs in each state and territory highlights the dramatic difference in the cost of housing between the most affordable and most expensive capital cities.
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When we are talking about affordable prices for capital city housing, Hobart is the location of choice with property prices much lower there than across the mainland capital cities.
To highlight this we have looked at selling prices for the bottom decile of homes over the three months to January 2016.  A decile simply divides a group into ten equal parts.  What this means is if there were 20 sales over the three months and we lined the sales up from lowest to highest we would take the 2nd price as a representation of the most affordable segment of the market.
Over the three months to January 2016, the 10th percentile price of a house across the combined capital cities was $315,000 and the 10th percentile unit price was $255,000.  Over the same period, the 10th percentile house price across the combined regional markets was $175,000 compared to $180,000 for units.  This again highlights that housing tends to be much more affordable outside of the capital cities.
<h3>10th percentile price of houses and units  3 months to January 2016</h3>
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<img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img1.jpg" alt="">
 Hobart has the lowest 10th percentile house and unit prices at $205,000 and $167,000 respectively.  Darwin is the second most affordable for houses at $229,000 and for units Adelaide is in second place with a price of $222,000.  At the other end of the spectrum, the 10th percentile house price is highest in Sydney and Darwin (both $430,000) and the unit price is highest in Sydney at $360,000.
The table below highlights the five most affordable capital city suburbs for both houses and units in each state.  The data is based on median values and we have only included suburbs that had at least 10 sales over the 12 months to January 2016.
<h3>Suburbs with most affordable median values, January 2016</h3>
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<img src="/images/2016/04/15/2016-03-29--img2.jpg" alt="">
 The much more affordable nature of Hobart housing is evident when you look at the most affordable lists for each city, particularly for houses.  The five most affordable suburbs for houses in Hobart are all more affordable than the most affordable suburbs in each other capital city.  The data also highlights that housing costs in Sydney, Darwin and Canberra tend to be more expensive than the remaining capital cities.
For units, Adelaide suburbs actually have the most affordable suburbs and certain suburbs in Brisbane are also cheaper than those in Hobart where medium to high density development is less common.  On the other hand, unit values in the most affordable Darwin and Canberra suburbs are much higher than elsewhere.
The data shows that affordable housing options are available in most capital cities however, they tend to be located on the outskirts of the capital cities.  Of course Hobart, Adelaide and Brisbane tend to have much more affordable housing options relative to the other capital cities.  Meanwhile, regional markets often offer up even more affordable housing alternatives.
 Cameron Kusher is research analyst for CoreLogic RP Data. You can contact him <a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/about/">here</a>.
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Hobart housing much more affordable than other capital cites

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SPONSORED POST
The Millers Point sales program will kick off in early February with the launch of six blocks of four apartments.
The Millers Point sale program has now yielded more than $300 million for social housing investment across the State.
The Government has sold 125 properties in Millers Point since the sale program commenced, with the program to deliver around 1,500 new social housing dwellings around Sydney and in the Illawarra.
The listings are part of the next stage of the Millers Point program, which includes a new product mix, including a diverse range of lofts and other apartments, blocks of units and terraces to be listed on the market over the coming months. 
Register now at <a href="https://www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au" target="_blank">www.rediscovermillerspoint.com.au</a>. Further information on these properties will be published over the coming weeks. 
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