Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Residential Sales

<html><body>
Sydney has had three consecutive weeks of auction clearance rates below 70 percent with the local market tracking at its lowest since December 2015 according ot Domains Andrew Wilson.
He said Sydney recorded a clearance rate of 69.5 percent on Saturday, which was almost the same as the 69.6 percent recorded over the previous weekend but again lower than the 74.1 per cent recorded over the same weekend last year. 
"Saturday was the lowest clearance rate recorded this year," he said.
"A total of 748 homes were listed for auction at the weekend, which was slightly lower than the previous weekend’s June record 793 but well ahead of the 631 auctions over the same weekend last year. 
"Given unprecedented winter supply, clearance rates still close to 70 per cent reflect underlying demand for property in Sydney."
</body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Sydney's lowest clearance rate recorded this year: Andrew Wilson

<html><body>
The acclaimed fashion designer Alannah Hill secured the sale of her chic white washed St Kilda West terrace which went to weekend auction.
The turn of the century Boom Style Victorian home drew just the one bidder, with the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-st+kilda+west-125546586" target="_blank">Mary Street three bedroom house</a> passed in at $2.325 million.
But Marshall White agents Adrian Wood and Michael Paproth sold it for an undisclosed higher price soon after.
Hill had paid $1,905,000 in 2013 then renovated the house in her signature style, draping it in marble, plenty of pink and chandeliers.
She was reluctantly selling because it was too big for her and her son.
Alannah took to Facebook to express her delight.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/06/19/Alannah.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/49-lisson-gr-hawthorn-vic-3122" target="_blank">A $7.65 million sale of a heritage home in Hawthorn</a> was the nation's top weekend auction result, on a weekend when Melbourne cemented its dominance over Sydney.
The four bedroom singe storey Lisson Grove had last sold 20 years ago at $1,225,250, reflecting close to 10 percent annual price appreciation.
There were extensive renovations in 2010 at the 1700 sq m property which came with tennis court.
After an opening bid of $6 million, there were the five bidders who took the offers to an on-the-market $6.7 million.
There had been seven bidders at its 1997 auction but only two were prepared to pay beyond $1.1 million.
Across Australia auction volumes rise to 2,407 returning an initial clearance rate of 69.6 per cent.
It is the third week in a row now where the combined capital city clearance rate has trended below 70 percent.
At the same time last year, auction volumes were lower than this week, with 2,183 properties taken to auction and a clearance rate of 67.4 percent.
The long weekend final clearance rate sat at 67.8 percent, recording the lowest clearance rate year to date, across the reduced holiday weekend 1,279 capital city auctions volume.
Sydney’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 72.4 percent this week, an improvement in the rate after last week’s final result saw the clearance rate drop to 67.7 percent.
"However as more results are collected it’s likely Sydney’s final clearance rate will again slip below the 70 percent mark," Kevin Brogan, the CoreLogic auction analyst said.
One year ago results show that 73.4 percent of Sydney homes taken to auction were successful, he noted.
Sydney's volumes were higher, up to 906 from 619 last week and one year ago when 768 Sydney homes were taken to auction.
The Eastern Suburbs sub-region of Sydney has shown the strongest performance so far this week, with 85 per cent of the 60 reported results selling including a $6 million South Coogee home, which sold for $2 million above reserve at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/2-denning-st-south-coogee-nsw-2034" target="_blank">2 Denning Street</a>. 
Melbourne’s auction results have also moderated, however the clearance rates remain well above 70 percent, "indicating some resilience in selling conditions relative to Sydney," CoreLogic's Kevin Brogan said.
Melbourne's preliminary auction clearance rate of 72.2 percent across 1,121 weekend auction included the nation's cheapest when $195,000 was paid for a one bedroom West Footscray flat.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-west+footscray-125522966" target="_blank">The 16/7-9 Hatfield Court unit</a> offered through Biggin &amp; Scott last sold at $38,000 in 1997.
Last week, Melbourne’s final clearance rate was recorded at 75.9 percent across 389 auctions.
This time last year, 1,085 properties were taken to auction across Melbourne and a clearance rate of 68.3 percent was recorded.
Sales included The Seekers’ manager Graham Simpson and his writer wife Jacqui selling their Hampton home of 15 years for $2.1 million.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hampton-125529654" target="_blank">The Wave Street, Hampton 1911 Edwardian offering</a> had three bidders who took the sale price<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hampton-125529654"> </a>$80,000 past reserve.
It last sold at $786,000 in 2002.
There were 150 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with a preliminary clearance rate of 49 per cent, down from 52.2 per cent last week but higher than one year ago, when 45.1 per cent of the 120 properties taken to auction were successful.
Brisbane's top sale was when $2.5 million was paid by southerners for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-yeronga-125496342" target="_blank">71 Ormadale Rd, Yeronga</a>.
The architecturally designed contemporary home was set on a riverfront 959 sqm lot.
The buyers, Paul and Dawn Burgoyne had spent the past three weeks looking for a Brisbane base, seeking out Brisbane's forgiving cold season.
“Brisbane winters are just the best, so the plan is to basically run two homes — six month of the year up here and six months back home in Melbourne,” Mr Burgoine told The Courier Mail.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Fashion designer Alannah Hill sells St Kilda West terrace

<html><body>
Glen Waverley leads the top auction location in Victoria this week, according to the REIV.
The REIV expects around 1,030 auctions across 326 suburbs this weekend with 16 auctions in Glen Waverley, 14 in Richmond then Mount Waverley, Reservoir, and St Albans with thirteen auctions in each.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.21.04%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/16/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-16%20at%2010.21.04%20AM.png" alt="">
</body></html>

Glen Waverley Victoria's busiest weekend auction location: REIV

<html><body>
Expressions of interest remain open on a number of properties for sale in Sydney's Millers Point under Property NSW sell off.
The properties include 30 Lower Fort Street – 4 Trinity Avenue, 42 Lower Fort Street, 46-46A &amp; 50-56C Gloucester Street closing 22 June 2017.
Some 14 apartments were listed as part of the Property NSW sales program in late May following the sale of two split-level apartments on Gloucester Street.  
Of the recent listings, 33 three storey apartments, located between 30 Lower Fort Street and 4 Trinity Avenue, were built by the Sydney Harbour Trust around 1910 to house wharf labourers, storemen, stevedores and gasworks hands.
For more information, <a href="https://rediscovermillerspoint.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
</body></html>

EOI closes late June for latest Millers Point listings

<html><body>
Sydney's 'fading' winter auction market will take a break for the Queen’s Birthday holiday weekend with over 400 homes are set to go under the hammer this Saturday according to Domain's Andrew Wilson.
He said this is predictably well down on last weekend’s June record of 789 auctions but significantly higher than the 284 listed over the same holiday weekend last year.
"Sydney’s south will host the most number of auctions this weekend with 54 closely followed by the upper north shore with 53, the west 46, the lower north 42, the inner west 41, the south west 38, the city and east 32, Canterbury Bankstown and the north west each with 25, the northern beaches 21, the central coast 13 and the Blue Mountains with just 1 auction scheduled on Saturday," he said.
"Lane Cove North is the most popular suburb for auctions this weekend in Sydney with 8 followed by Pyrmont 7, Bexley, Liverpool and Cremorne each with 6 and a number of suburbs with 5 auctions listed including Bankstown, Ryde and Dee Why."
"Over 250 homes are set to go under the hammer this Saturday in Melbourne which will be predictably well down on last weekend’s June record 1045 auctions conducted but similar to the 265 listed over the same holiday weekend last year.
"Melbourne’s west remains the most popular region for auction activity this weekend with 65 listings and well ahead of the south east with 40.  The north east and the outer east follow with 35 each with the inner east 25, the inner city and the north each with 16  and the inner south with 15 auctions listed.
"St Albans is the top suburb for auctions on Saturday with 8 followed by Reservoir and Noble Park each with 6 and a number of suburbs with 5 auctions scheduled including Craigieburn, Dandenong North, Melbourne and Rowville."
</body></html>

Sydney's 'fading' winter auction market taking weekend break, Melbourne paused

<html><body>
The majority of respondents to a new survey believe foreign investors are the greatest factor pushing up house prices.
The survey of 1006 Australians conducted on behalf of non-bank lender State Custodians Home Loans, found 69% of those aged 50 plus believe so, 54% of Gen X, and 49% of Gen Y.
Some 60% of respondents in New South Wales considered foreign investment as the greatest factor in pushing up house prices, 63% in Victoria, 50% in WA, 54% in SA and 56% in Queensland. 
Out of survey, 32% believe current low interest rates are merely encouraging more cashed up buyers into the market, driving up prices even further.
Joanna Pretty, general manager of State Custodians, said the collective impact of so many forces at work is what’s really contributing to the housing affordability crisis, rather than any one thing in particular.
“It’s the perfect storm of numerous factors coming together which is shaping the market we are experiencing today,” she said.
“The budget changes will go some way to help regarding foreign investment levels, but then the other factors still exist. There is still a lot of work to be done regarding affordability in general.”
"Other major concerns relate to population issues.
"Some 42% of people believe that over population in major cities is pushing up demand.
Another 28% also feel there’s not enough overall housing stock on offer for the amount of people looking, the survey found.
“It is definitely tough to buy in metro areas these days in the larger cities, especially if you’re struggling to make ends meet on your current wage," said Pretty.
“There is currently a lot of competition with limited stock.
"Plus, the deposit requirements are significant, even if you’re an expert saver. 
“Unfortunately buying your ‘forever home’ right off the bat is not always a feasible or quick option like it has been in the past.
"People who are competing for limited stock need to be open to suggestions on how to move forward.
“Look at different types of investing options. For example, if you don’t want to move from your neighbourhood, consider renting there and buy an investment property elsewhere. Make sure you’re constantly scouring real estate sites and be on good terms with local agents so they can alert you early on if something in your price range pops up.
“Also seek out advice from lending experts about areas you are interested in and how much you can borrow. Make sure your finances are sorted out prior to your search starting so you can truly understand your limit.”
Other factors Australians feel are increasing house prices are negative gearing incentives for property investors (41%), and high costs like stamp duty and capital gains tax putting homeowners off selling and buying, thereby limiting homes for sale (35%).
</body></html>

Survey finds majority believe foreign investors the greatest factor for house price rises

<html><body>
Sydney set a new record for June house auctions with 789 home going under the hammer over the weekend, according to Domain's Andrew Wilson.
Sydney holds a preliminary auction clearance rate 74.3 percent from the weekend listings.
Domain's Andrew Wilson said the hot winter weekend significantly surpassed the previous record set of 670 on set on June 20 2015.
"The previous weekend’s clearance rate was 75.9 percent, and over the same weekend last year it was 80.1 percent," he said.
"It was the third consecutive decline in weekend results with the local market now tracking well below the 79.3 percent average weekend rate recorded over the autumn selling season. 
"Sydney recorded an overall auction clearance rate of 71.6 percent in May which was lower than the 73.3 percent recorded over April but higher than the 69.4 percent reported over May last year.
"Auction listings averaged 858 each weekend over May which was well ahead of the 709 recorded over April and the 637 listed over May last year.
"The May listings result was also a record for that month.
"It’s only the first weekend of the month and already the record has been broken for the most auctions listed and the most properties sold in June.  
"The Melbourne market continues to be deluged by a flood of auction listings with 1045 homes going under the hammer on Saturday – well ahead of the previous record of 955 set on June 18, 2016.
<div class="in-content-ad">"The city recorded a clearance rate of 75.9 percent at the weekend, which was lower than the 76.6 percent the previous weekend but higher than the 74.4 percent recorded over the same weekend last year.</div>
"Saturday’s clearance rate was the second consecutive year low result, with the local market now tracking well below the 79.5 percent average weekend rate recorded over the autumn selling season. 
"Melbourne recorded an overall auction clearance rate of 75.1 percent in May, compared with 75.9 percent recorded in April and 70.3 percent reported in May last year.
"Auction listings averaged 974 each weekend over May, which was well ahead of the 768 recorded in April and the 862 listed in May last year.
"The May listings result was also a record for that month. Over the first five months of this year 14,987 homes have been listed for auction in Melbourne, which is an increase of 14.3 percent on the same period last year."
</body></html>

Bumper Saturday for Melbourne, Sydney residential auctions

<html><body>
A residential Potts Point car parking space, in inner Sydney, fetched $222,000 at weekend auction, which the Di Jones selling agent declared “top dollar”.
Bidding opened at $120,000 for <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/101-45-53-macleay-street-potts-point-nsw-2011-2013605721" target="_blank">the 16 square metre undercover space</a> (above) in The Chimes apartment block.
There were two of the five registered parties still bidding from $180,000 onwards.
Another standard car space had sold nearby earlier this year at $190,000 with a larger 26 sq m car space fetching $264,000 two years ago.
The successful bidder has resided in Potts Point for two decades and intended the car spot for his personal use, The Sunday Telegraph reported.
The 10-storey, 80 unit Macleay Street strata studio block was built in the mid 1960s when the standard EJ Holden cost the equivalent of $2000.
The car space was among the first week of winter offerings, but not the cheapest. 
A three bedroom house at Smithfield - offered as a renovator's dream - sold for $142,500 as Adelaide’s and the nation's cheapest weekend auction sale.
Built in 1980 it last sold in 1995 for $56,000.
Featuring three bedrooms, the property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-smithfield-125500850" target="_blank">19 Adaluna Crescent</a> had $110,000 price guidance.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-05%20at%208.29.18%20AM.png" alt="">
The onset of winter saw auction volumes fall across the country.
Some 2,545 homes were taken to auction, compared to 2,885 the previous weekend, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that the preliminary clearance rate across the combined capital cities was higher (73.9 per cent) compared with last week’s finalised result, which was the third lowest clearance rate so far this year (71.3 per cent).
With auction clearance rates typically revising lower as more results flow through, the final clearance rate is likely to be lower than what was recorded last week, CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan said.
Every city had a higher clearance rate than the same weekend last June.
At the same time last year, both the combined capital city clearance rate and the number of auctions were lower, with 2,008 auctions held and 68.2 per cent reported as successful.
The two largest auction markets, Melbourne and Sydney, saw their preliminary clearance rates rise compared with last weeks finalised results, with Sydney at 77.5 per cent and Melbourne at 75.4 per cent.
Across the smaller capital city markets, week-on-week results show mixed results with clearance rates falling in Brisbane and Canberra.
Across Melbourne, 1,181 homes were taken to auction and preliminary results show a clearance rate of 75.4 per cent, increasing from last weekend when the final clearance rate fell to 74.2 per cent across 1,366 auctions, the lowest clearance rate for the city so far this year.
At the same time last year, Melbourne’s clearance rate was 71.1 per cent, with 970 auctions held across the city.
Looking at Melbourne’s sub-regions, the West region was the best performer in terms of clearance rates, with a 83.5 per cent success rate.
The top weekend sale was a 1970s Hawthorn house for $5.51 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hawthorn-125400526">17 Fairview Street</a>, (below) the 760 sqm property marketed as suitable to be redeveloped was snapped up by a Chinese buyer who will demolish the five bedroom brick home, Fairfax Media reported. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-05%20at%208.30.27%20AM.png" alt="">
With views overlooking Fairview Park, Yarra River and CBD, it was last sold in 2007 for $2.8 million.
There was a record price paid in Fitzroy when a couple from Boroondara with three young children secured Fitzroy House at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-fitzroy-125390094">43 Gore Street </a>with a $4.9 million bid.
It at almost $900,000 more than the suburb’s previous record of $4.011 million set by 17 Bell Street last year.
It was sold by Madman Entertainment co-founder Paul Wiegard and his wife Sarah, who spent about $2 million renovating the three-level 1854 house, which cost $2.1 million in 2008.
It was built for surgeon Thomas Embling.
Sydney’s preliminary auction clearance rate increased to 77.5 per cent from 72.7 per cent last week, while auction volumes were lower this week with 1,000 homes taken to auction, compared to 1,101 last week.
At the same time last year, both the clearance rate and auction volumes were lower with 692 homes taken to auction and a clearance rate of 72.9 per cent.
Sydney's top sale was an art deco Russell Lea house sold for $5.15 million with six bidders registering at the auction.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-russell+lea-125413062" target="_blank">26 Clements Street</a>, the P&amp;O style residence sits on a double block that overlooks Iron Cove Bay.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-05%20at%208.32.12%20AM.png" alt="">
Designed in 1939 by Guy Crick, it was marketed as having potential to renovate or develop through Warwick Williams Real Estate agents Adrian Sereni and Warwick Williams.
There were 146 auctions held across Brisbane this week, down from 162 last week, but higher than one year ago (130).
Preliminary results show that 51 per cent of Brisbane auctions were successful this week, up from 52.2 per cent last week, while one year ago 48.2 per cent of auctions were sold.
A two bedroom timber Woodridge house sold for $241,000 making it Brisbane’s most cheapest weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-woodridge-125467238" target="_blank">72 North Road</a> (below), the 875 sqm parcel holding last sold in 1986 for $39,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-05%20at%208.33.32%20AM.png" alt="">
A total of 107 auctions were held in Adelaide this weekend, down from 112 last week, and up from 98 last year.
Preliminary Adelaide results for the weekend show 63.4 per cent sold, up from 57.6 per cent last week. 
An Aldinga Beach beachfront reserve house sold for $1.45 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-aldinga+beach-125424530" target="_blank">210 Esplanade</a>, the 1800 sqm property is just steps away from the beach, 50km from Adelaide CBD, and a short drive to McLaren Vale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-05%20at%208.34.32%20AM.png" alt="">
Modernised since built in 1965, it was last sold in 2009 for $1.175 million and in 2002 for $680,000.
Across Perth, preliminary results show 58.3 per cent of the 12 reported auctions were successful, while one week ago 50 per cent of Perth auctions were successful and one year ago just 13 per cent were sold.
There were 78 auctions held in Canberra this week and the preliminary clearance rate was 71.9 per cent, down from 73.8 per cent last week and similar to one year ago (71.1 per cent).
</body></html>

Potts Point parking space amongst weekend auction highlights

<html><body>
Architect Alexander Symes has listed his environmentally minded Blackheath retreat, dubbed the Up-Cycle House.
The Blue Mountains house restoration at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-blackheath-125378270" target="_blank">12 Waragil Street</a> was driven by the philosophy of instead of demolishing an old home which has 'reached the end of its lifecycle', it can be 'up-cycled'.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.02.25%20AM.png" alt="">
Glebe-based Alexander Symes up-cycled the house, influenced by Scandinavian design, to create a sustainable and functional design and living.
The sculptural entrance of the house is accessed via railway sleepers and the floor throughout the house is a colourful mosaic of tiles. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.03.08%20AM.png" alt="">
Modern House agency have a price guide between $575,000 and $595,000.
The modest house in the Blue Mountains cost Symes $200,000 in 2008 using the First Home Owner Grant.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.03.54%20AM.png" alt="">
"The existing building’s shortcomings included its thermal envelope and the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, and it needed a lot of maintenance and care," he noted.
Over the course of eight years, Symes, with assistance from family and friends, handcrafted the aging dwelling into an up-cycled three-bedroom, two-bathroom family home that explores best practice in sustainability.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.04.34%20AM.png" alt="">
His philosophy for the home was simple. If it ain't broke, don't fix it; if it is broke, fix it with recycled materials that explore best practice in sustainability.
The 104 square metre freestanding home on a 417 square metre parcel has three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a rear fire-pit entertainment area.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.05.53%20AM.png" alt="">
A large open-plan living space runs the full width of the house
The structure is predominately insulated brick with a flat metal roof and incorporating eco technologies as architectural features.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.07.19%20AM.png" alt="">
The Solar pergola at the entrance provides shelter and generates power from the 1 kilowatt grid inter-tie porto-voltaic system.
Symes says he seeks a poetic approach to how an environment is experienced.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-31%20at%2011.06.34%20AM.png" alt="">
With over 12 years experience working previously for practices including Arup, including an Austinmer beach house.
This article first appeared in the Sunday Telegraph.
</body></html>

firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Architect Alexander Symes lists Blackheath retreat Up-Cycle House

<html><body>
The former Collingwood ruckman Josh Fraser failed to sell his Hawthorn home at weekend auction.
Despite competition between two bidders, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hawthorn-125302466" target="_blank">the three-bedroom house </a>(above) passed in at $1.87 million after the slow auction kicked off at $1.7 million.
The reserve was $1.975 million, with later negotiations seeing the top offer increased to $1.885 million, the agent told The Herald Sun.
Baltic pine floorboards and an exposed brick open fireplace were design features.
Auctioneer Anton Zhouk said Fraser had updated the bathroom in 2007 and Fraser was looking to upsize in the local area with wife Kylie Sutcliffe and their two children.
Fraser, currently the development coach at Cartlon Football Club, spent $610,000 on the classic Victorian home in 2002 when it was bought from then team mate, Nathan Buckley who had paid $390,500 three years earlier.
The top weekend sale across the nation was a two bedroom apartment in one of Sydney’s tightly-held apartment blocks that sold for $8.715 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-sydney-125351338" target="_blank">2502/2 Philip St</a>, (below) The Quay offering sold to the neighbours, according to the Sunday Telegraph.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.40.29%20AM.png" alt="">
It was $965,000 above reserve with through Ettiene West of Morton advising four of the 10 registered bidders got to participate.
The 25th floor apartment that overlooks Circular Quay and the Botanic Gardens last sold in 2009 for $7 million and in 1998 for $4 million.
The 253 sqm space had been partially refurbished.
A villa unit at Sunshine in Melbourne sold for $245,000 to rank as the nation's cheapest weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-sunshine-124099310" target="_blank">4/136-140 Wright Street</a>, (below) the one bedder offered through Douglas Kay Real Estate has been a $250 a week rental until November.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/05/28/4_136-140%20Wright%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The neighbouring one bedroom villa had sold two months ago at $242,000.
The national weekend preliminary auction clearance rate remains strong despite last autumn auction volumes increasing marginally, according to CoreLogic.
The property data firm says that Melbourne had the highest preliminary clearance rate at 77.3 percent, one of four capitals with success rates in the 70s.
The auction activity across the capital cities increased slightly this week, up from 2,824 last week to 2,850 this week, while this time last year auction volumes were lower, with 2,480 homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities.
This week’s preliminary average clearance rate across the combined capitals was 74.6 percent, increasing from 73.1 percent over the previous week and up from 67.7 percent one year ago.
There were 1,350 Melbourne auctions this week, making it the busiest capital city. Across the 1,155 reported results, 77.3 percent were successful this weekend.
The number of auctions held and the clearance rate across Melbourne this week were very similar to last week, when 1,326 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 77.9 percent was recorded.
"Interestingly, the clearance rate in Melbourne is yet to fall below 75 percent so far this year," CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan said. 
The weekend's strongest performing Melbourne sub-region was the Outer East with 88.8 percent of auctions clearing.
Melbourne's top sale was a four bedroom house at Canterbury at $4.75 million.
The 1996-built <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-canterbury-125355394" target="_blank">Parlington Street</a> (below) offering, last sold in 2010 for $3.15 million, sits on a 967 sqm of landscaped gardens with pool.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.42.42%20AM.png" alt="">
Some 1,086 Sydney homes were auctioned over the past week with preliminary results showing 76.2 percent were successful, increasing from 74 percent last week across 1,075 auctions.
One year ago, 811 auctions were held across Sydney and a clearance rate of 73.2 percent was recorded.
Ryde recorded the strongest Sydney clearance rate of 90.9 percent across 46 auctions, followed by Sydney's inner West at 88 percent.
There were 159 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with 109 results reported so far. The top sale was when Ray White sold a four bedroom house at Spring Hill for $1.452 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-spring+hill-125367634" target="_blank">429 Gregory Terrace</a>, (below) the three level property had been renovated since last sold.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.43.50%20AM.png" alt="">
Brisbane's preliminary clearance rate was 56 percent, up from 46.3 percent last week and stronger than one year ago, when 41.7 percent of the 192 properties taken to auction were successful.
Adelaide recorded a clearance rate of 54.9 percent across 111 auctions this week, down from 62.9 percent across 116 auctions last week.<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-28%20at%2010.40.34%20am.jpg" target="_blank"> </a>
At the same time last year, 125 Adelaide homes were taken to auction, with 52.6 percent recording a successful result.
In Perth, 46 auctions were held this week, and of the 14 reported results, 71.4 percent were successful.
Last week, 50 auctions were held and the clearance rate was a lower 35.3 percent.
This time last year, 58 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 30.6 percent was recorded.
Canberra’s clearance rate of 75.9 percent across 93 auctions, up from the previous week, when 83 auctions were held and a clearance rate of 74.4 percent was secured.
Over the same weekend last year, the clearance rate was 70.5 percent when 109 auctions were held.
A six bedroom 1961 Red Hill house sold for $1.612 million was the top sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-red+hill-125325626" target="_blank">23 Scarborough Street</a>, (below) the 1297 sqm property has retained much of its original features.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/28/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-29%20at%208.44.49%20AM.png" alt="">
</body></html>

Residential Sales

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Residential Sales

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News