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 

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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.
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[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

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A mid-century classic Pascoe Vale South house has been sold for $939,000.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-pascoe+vale+south-125251546">33 Ward Grove</a>, it was designed by architect Neil Clerehan.
The buyers had been looking for a long time and will move in as owner-occupiers.
Maintained in mint conditions it has been owned by the original owners for sixty years atop Coonans Hill.
The three-bedroom brick home was part of the Small Homes Service scheme in the 1950s, which was headed by Robin Boyd.
Boyd drew up the first designs, then architectural colleagues submitted others. Neil Clerehan, who took over from Boyd as director of the service in the 1950s, once said it was a successful idea for its time.
The cheap way for Melburnians to build a distinctive new house was launched in Melbourne in 1947, with backing from the Royal Victorian Institute of Architects and The Age.
Built in the early 1950s, the Pascoe Vale house had been well-maintained by its single owner and still features an original tiled open fireplace, retro kitchen cabinetry, hardwood floors and striking wallpaper.
Featuring a lounge and formal dining space with original, fully tiled open fireplace.
Kitchen features a side-by-side electric stove, breakfast nook and servery window.
Three double bedrooms have their own built-in robes.
<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/2017/05/25/33%20Ward%20Grove-2.jpg" alt="">
There is the potential to further extend the property (STCA).
Close proximity to Shore Reserve, shops, cafes, amenities and public transport.
The property was offered through Brad Teal agents Greg Kofoed and Ursula Saba.
For five quid biers could chose from a range of architect's plans, complete with working drawings and specifications, then they found a builder to build it under the Small Homes Service.
The same house plans, 25 in the Melbourne suburbs and 25 in the country, were offered to other buyers. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Neil Clerehan 1950s Pascoe Vale designed home sold

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Weekend auction listings in Melbourne almost surpassed the May record set in 2014, according to Domain's Andrew Wilson.
He said on Saturday 1120 homes were listed to go under the hammer, just below the record May weekend auction listings of 1147 set in 2014.
"This was well ahead of the previous weekends 933 auctions and also well ahead of the 759 listed over the same weekend last year," he said.
"In a sign that demand is strong as ever, the clearance rate was 79.7 percent – higher than the 78.3 percent recorded the previous weekend and remaining well ahead of the 73.8 percent recorded over the same weekend last year.
Next weekend will provide another record-level May Saturday of auctions with again well over 1100 listings likely.
"This weekend’s auction result follows the ABS reporting that seasonally adjusted national retail sales fell again over March following the fall recorded over February. This was the first consecutive monthly decline in national retail turnover since November 2012 and reflects the impact on consumers of record low incomes growth, higher unemployment and significant under-employment.
"Melbourne’s northern suburbs produced another bullish result to again lead the regions with a clearance rate of 86.8 percent.
Next highest was the inner east with 82.6 percent followed by the south east 82.1 percent, the north east 82.0 percent, the west 81.4 percent and the highest reported sales at 127, the outer east 78.5 percent, the inner city 77.4 percent and the outer south with an auction clearance rate at the weekend of 77.3 percent."
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Melbourne weekend auctions nearly break listings record

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Melbourne agents offered a weekend auction smorgasbord of culinary-connected inner city offerings.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-carlton+north-125308038" target="_blank">The Carlton North home</a> (above) of late Japanese restaurateur, Kunihiro “Kuni” Ichikawa fetched $2.3 million.
There were eight bidders seeking the 278 sqm two bedroom Reserve Street offering which was built for him in 1967 with Japanese influences.
Alexkarbon selling agent Tony Downward noted Ichikawa introduced sushi to Australia after opening Kuni’s in the CBD in 1977.
He lived there until he died early last year aged 67.
There was a $740,000 sale of an apartment above the Collingwood eatery, The Noble Experiment.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.18.52%20AM.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-collingwood-125311910" target="_blank">The apartment</a>, (above) located in the old Comarty's building located on the corner of Smith and Otter Streets, had traded in 2007 at $497,500.
The pre-auction selling range was $700,000 to $770,000.
At Fitzroy North a three-bedroom apartment atop an Italian restaurant attracted keen interest.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.20.39%20AM.png" alt="">
Nelson Alexander Fitzroy auctioneer Arch Staver said the $975,000 price was $225,000 above reserve when an investor outbid four others to win the keys of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-fitzroy+north-125312074" target="_blank">the Queens Parade offering</a> (above).
The weekend preliminary auction average clearance rate has risen again to 77 percent on the second last Autumn weekend, according to CoreLogic’s latest update.
Auction activity across the combined capital cities increased this week too, up from 2,409 auctions last week, to 2,794 this week, making it the sixth busiest week so far this year.
The clearance rate across the combined capitals was 77.2 percent, increasing from a final clearance rate of 72.8 percent over the previous week.
At the same time last year, both volumes (1,920) and the clearance rate (68.9 percent) were lower.
The two largest auction markets, Melbourne and Sydney, saw their preliminary clearance rates rise, with Sydney at 80.7 percent and Melbourne at 79.2 percent, although Kevin Brogan, the CoreLogic auction analyst said that Sydney, and to a lesser extent Melbourne, tend to revise down over the week when the remaining results are captured.
Over the previous week, Sydney’s preliminary clearance rate of 79.4 percent was revised down to 74.5 percent when finalised.
Across the smaller capital city markets, Brisbane was the only city where preliminary clearance rates fell week-on-week.
Sydney was host to 1,053 auctions this week and a preliminary clearance rate of 80.7 percent was recorded, rising from 74.5 percent last week across 960 auctions.
One year ago, 735 auctions were held across Sydney and 73.2 percent were successful.
It was the strongest result since April 9.
Eight of the 15 sub-regions recorded clearance rates of at least 80 percent with the stand outs being Sydney's Inner West 88.9 percent and Sutherland's 88.6 percent.
A Sydney Harbour waterfront house at Northbridge sold for $9.3 million making it the nation’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.24.01%20AM.png" alt="">
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-northbridge-125329386" target="_blank">67 Coolawin Road</a> home (above) on 1890 sq m was marketed through Shead Property as a "once in a generation opportunity." 
The Middle Harbour home has an extensive garden that leads to a private boat house and pontoon along with wide level garden frontage.
There were 1,323 auctions held in Melbourne this week with a preliminary clearance rate of 79.2 percent. 
This week’s result shows a rise in the clearance rate for the city, after Melbourne’s final clearance rate was recorded at 75 percent last week, the lowest clearance rate for the city so far this year.
Over the same week last year, Melbourne’s clearance rate was 70 percent across 843 auctions.
Melbourne's highest was a four bedroom 1907 Queen Anne Federation house at Camberwell.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.25.26%20AM.png" alt="">
Agents secured $5.02 million for Croydon at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-camberwell-125286186" target="_blank">28 Kintore Street</a>, (above) positioned in the highly-prized Tara Estate close to Junction shopping.
Last sold in 1994 for $650,000, and before that $116,000 in 1979, the century-old charmer set on almost 900q m, was offered through Jellis Craig who had a price guide of $4.5 million to $5 million.
The Herald Sun reported there had been a $5 million reserve for the home that attracted three bidders.
Melbourne had the cheapest sale of the nation when a two bedroom villa at Melton South sold for $251,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.28.33%20AM.png" alt="">
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-melton+south-125247254" target="_blank">1/18 Toolern Street</a>, the 1980-built villa was marketed as suitable for first home buyers, investors and downsizers.
It last sold at $207,000 in 2012.
There is 90 sqm space with indoor/outdoor zones comprising of central lounge/meal area that opens to an alfresco courtyard.
The property was offered through Raine &amp; Horne agents Kieran Carson and Genna Di Pasquale.
Of the Melbourne sub-regions, seven of the nine regions recorded clearance rates at or above 75 percent, with the highest clearance recorded across the Outer East, with preliminary results showing 87.8 percent of the 98 results were successful.
There were 160 Brisbane homes taken to auction this week, with 93 results reported so far. 
A six bedroom Clayfield house sold for $1.75 million through Ray White agent Damon Warat was Brisbane’s most expensive reported weekend auction sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.33.55%20AM.png" alt="">
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-clayfield-125260494" target="_blank">122 Alexandria Road</a>, the property has been recently renovated. It last traded in 2010 at $1.3 million.
The preliminary clearance rate for Brisbane at 51.6 percent, was the only capital city down from last week, when it was 59 percent, but similar to one year ago, when 50.9 percent of the 131 properties taken to auction were successful.
In Adelaide, a 70.4 percent preliminary result was recorded this week across 114 auctions.
The 102 Adelaide auctions returned a clearance rate of 63 percent, while at the same time last year, 92 homes were taken to auction, with 68.8 per cent recording a successful result.
<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/2017/05/21/700_esplanade.jpg" alt="">
There was no sale when a stunning six-bedroom Glenelg North Victorian-Italianate style home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-glenelg+north-125280622" target="_blank">36 North Esplanade</a> (above) attracted three registered bidders, but then no bids.
Adelaide's cheapest sale was a two bedroom Kent Town unit sold for $342,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.52.09%20AM.png" alt="">
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-sa-kent+town-125359730" target="_blank">3/2-8 College Road</a>, (above) the property last sold in 2005 at $230,000.
Set 10 minutes from Rundle Street, the property was offered through Harris Real Estate who had offered $320,000 price guidance.
Across Canberra, 85 homes were taken to auction this week.
Preliminary results show a clearance rate of 75.3 percent, up from 74.3 percent the previous week.
A five bedroom elevated Red Hill house sold for $1.541 million making it Canberra's most expensive weekend auction sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%208.53.19%20AM.png" alt="">
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-red+hill-125308426" target="_blank">26 Fishburn Street</a> (above), the property that overlooks a treetop landscape had last sold at $1.38 million in 2015.
The 1960s home, with 1990s renovation, was marketed with additional potential for redevelopment or renovation through Peter Blackshaw Real Estate agent Andrew Chamberlain.
Perth’s preliminary clearance rate was 50 percent this week, up from 42.1 percent last week.
This week 48 Perth homes were auctioned.
At the same time last year, 42.9 percent of Perth auctions cleared.
 
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Strong May weekend for Sydney, Melbourne auctions

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Sydney auction levels are set to rise again this weekend with sellers rushing the late autumn market in record numbers, according to Domain's Andrew Wilson.
He said nearly 900 homes are scheduled for Sydney auction this weekend, up from the 778 held last weekend. 
"The upper north shore will again host the highest number of auctions of the Sydney regions this weekend with 136 closely followed by the inner west (132), the city and east (117), the south (102), the lower north (68), the south west (65), the northern beaches (61), Canterbury Bankstown (53), the north west (49), the west (48), the central coast (16) and the Blue Mountains with 5 auctions scheduled this weekend," he said.
"Maroubra is the most popular suburb in Sydney this weekend for auctions with 12 followed by Mosman, Ashfield, Surry Hills, Baulkham Hills each with 10 and a number of suburbs with 9 auctions listed including Castle Hill, Randwick, Leichhardt, Frenchs Forest, St Ives and Alexandria."
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Sydney weekend auction levels set to rise again

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ABC Melbourne radio broadcaster Libbi Gorr and her TV producer partner Stewart Burchmore doubled their money when they secured $3.23 million for their redundant Sydney home at its weekend auction.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+bondi-125279338" target="_blank">The three bedroom North Bondi auction offering</a>, (above) which has been a $1350 weekly rental earner over the past four years, cost $1,605,000 in 2007.
Phillips Pantzer Donnelley had four bidders - all above the signalled $2.9 million reserve - on the offering which was marketed as as having potential to live in, renovate or completely rebuild.
Gorr, growing up in Murrumbeena, got her big break with Andrew Denton's ABC sports comedy program Live and Sweaty, where her satirical character Elle McFeast emerged in 1991.
By coincidence nearby Glen Huntly saw the nation's cheapest weekend result when <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-glen+huntly-125226550" target="_blank">a one bedroom apartment</a> (below) sold for $260,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.09.20%20AM.png" alt="">
Having recently had a makeover, Woodards agent Ruth Roberts got a sale having previously sought unsuccessfully to secure $310,000 when it was scheduled for 2013 auction.
The first floor 131 Grange Road property traded last in 2005 at $175,000. The 44 sqm 1965-built apartment was advertised in 2015 for a $275 a week rental.
Auction markets have remained resilient, with both volumes and the preliminary clearance rate rising week-on-week, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that the strong auction results add some complexity to speculation that the housing market is moving through its peak rate of growth.
"At face value, auction markets are continuing to indicate continued strength in selling conditions across Sydney and Melbourne, however it’s harder to know whether vendors are adjusting their reserve pricing in order to clear their property," Corelogic's auction analyst Kevin Brogan said.
Sydney returned to be the capital city with the highest clearance rate - and it also secured the top sale when records fell in Strathfield, with an $8.8 million sale by Sanity boss Ray Itaoui and wife Rachel. 
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-strathfield-125164754" target="_blank">Their Frank Lloyd-Wright inspired mansion</a> (below) that cost them $5 million in 2010 sold through Georges Ellis &amp; Co agent Joseph Georges.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.10.27%20AM.png" alt="">
The suburb record has been set four times in the past year.
There were 2,376 auctions held across the capital cities over the week to Saturday, with a preliminary auction clearance rate of 76.2 percent.
Last week, a final clearance rate of 73 percent was recorded across 1,689 auctions.
It was a better performance that the corresponding period last year, auction volumes were lower at 1,876 properties taken to auction and a clearance rate of 69.5 percent.
Melbourne had the highest number of auctions with 1,092 properties going to market, with a lower preliminary rate of clearance week-on-week at 76.8 percent, down on the 77.5 percent across 792 auctions.
This time last year, 871 properties were taken to auction across Melbourne and a clearance rate of 71.3 per cent was recorded.
Melbourne's top sale was a five bedroom house at Kew that sold for $4.515 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-kew-125252722" target="_blank">8 Mawson Street</a> (below) property offered through Marshall White agents Mike Beardsley and Scarlett Hang.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.11.25%20AM.png" alt="">
Reality TV renovators Joe and Fil sold their Maribyrnong house which was transformed on the Channel 7 show, House Rules.
Listed so they can move on to their next project, the pair had added a fourth bedroom and third bathroom to <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-maribyrnong-125216890" target="_blank">the house at 12 Grandview Avenue</a> (below).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.12.15%20AM.png" alt="">
Rendina Real Estate, Kensington agent Richard Rending told The Herald Sun prior to auction the buyer interest had been in the vicinity of $1.3 million.
The House Rules contestants Joe and Fil sold for $1.27 million after it was passed in at $1.11 million
In Sydney, 938 auctions were held this week, up from 592 over the previous week, with 700 plus held on Saturday.
The preliminary clearance rate of 79.4 percent was up from 73.8 percent last week.
It was higher than this time last year, when a clearance rate of 76.2 percent was recorded across 647 auctions.
The Northern Beaches region recorded the strongest clearance rate of 91.4 percent across 94 auctions.
There were 127 Brisbane homes taken to auction with the preliminary clearance rate for the city at 61.8 percent, up from 59.6 percent last week and higher than one year ago, when just 49.3 percent of the 151 properties taken to auction were successful.
A three bedroom Brisbane townhouse at Richlands sold for $280,000, making it Brisbane’s most cheapest weekend auction result. It sold at $339,000 on its 2009 completion
Located at 23/20 Kathleen Street, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-qld-richlands-125226690" target="_blank">the Progress Park property</a> (below) was marketed as suitable for investment or first home buyers when offered through MTR Property Group agent Marilyn Thurtell.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.16.27%20AM.png" alt="">
Brisbane's dearest sale was a renovated 1910 Nundah house at $2.46 million. The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-nundah-125274330" target="_blank">33 Oxford Street</a> (below) property captures bay breezes and city skyline. The two storey house with pool and tennis court was offered through Ray White having last sold at $1,905,000 in 2009.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.17.22%20AM.png" alt="">
Adelaide saw a preliminary clearance rate of 71.8 percent, with 71 reported results across a total of 100 scheduled auctions.
In comparison, over the previous week Adelaide’s clearance rate was 62.5 percent and 66.3 percent one year ago.
A four bedroom house at Trinity Gardens sold for $1.47 million making it Adelaide’s most expensive weekend auction result.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-sa-trinity+gardens-125273854" target="_blank">115 Ashbrook Avenue</a>, (below) the property sits on a 841 sqm block of land. The 1900 home last traded at $505,000 in 2004.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.18.23%20AM.png" alt="">
The property was offered through Klemich Real Estate agent Steve Alexander who had advised $1.25 million expectations.
There were 31 Perth auctions this week and so far 14 results have been reported, with 42.9 percent selling.
Last week there was a 43.8 percent clearance rate for Perth.
Across Canberra a total of 79 auctions were held compared to 58 last week and 52 at the same time last year.
Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate of 75.8 percent is higher than it was the previous week's 64.7 percent.
A modern two-storey house at Deakin sold for $1.694 million making it Canberra’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-act-deakin-125275538" target="_blank">13 Newdegate Street</a>, (below) the four bedroom property offered through LJ Hooker who had a $1.5 million price guide.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-15%20at%209.19.41%20AM.png" alt="">
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Radio's Libbi Gorr doubles money in weekend auction sale

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An ATO rule was introduced to catch foreign sellers taking money overseas.
But it was applied to all Australian sellers of $2 million-plus properties - and will now cover all sales above $750,000 in an expanded audit which will also catch local hidden black market property sellers.
The rule classifies all sellers as overseas investors unless they get a special tax clearance.
That means that all buyers of $750,000 plus properties must deduct 10 percent from the purchase price and pay that amount to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) unless the seller can furnish a tax clearance. 
The rule will affect everyone, including Australians, despite being aimed at overseas investors taking their property windfalls overseas.
The measure can be traced back to the days when former treasurer Joe Hockey caved into pressures to curb Chinese investment in Australian residential property in 2015.
In the process, the treasurer was convinced by the Australian Taxation Office to widen the net to cover local residents.
According to an ATO fact sheet, in May 2013, the government announced that it would introduce a 10 percent non-final withholding tax on payments made to foreign residents who dispose of certain taxable Australian property with a market value above a specified $2 million threshold.
The new legislation for this measure became law in February 2016.
The $2 million rule applied to vacant land, buildings, residential and commercial property, leaseholds and strata title schemes.
The ATO website says, "The government is strengthening our foreign resident capital gains tax (CGT) regime to assist in the collection of foreign residents' liabilities."
A purchaser who does not receive a “clearance certificate” from the vendor and does not send 10 per cent of the purchase price off to the ATO will be liable to pay that 10 percent to the ATO plus
In the majority of cases, local resident vendors will have no problem obtaining a clearance certificate, but it might increase the risk of a tax audit for property sellers who:
<ul>
<li>Have not filed tax returns for many years;</li>
<li>Have filed tax returns, which would indicate they could not afford such a property;</li>
<li>Are selling their residential house at the same time as their neighbours to a single developer, which may give rise to a profit making scheme (such that the principal residence capital gains tax exemption may not apply to the value uplift generated by selling the properties together); or</li>
<li>Where the ATO has gathered information that indicates the vendor is in the business of developing property, which means that the principal residence capital gains tax exemption may not apply.</li>
</ul>
It was inevitable that over time, the ATO would shift their audit target identification processes to lower than $2 million-plus property vendors.
If the vendor has a tax debt, the application for a “clearance certificate” may in some circumstances involve the ATO seeking to recover some or all of that tax debt from the purchaser by way of a garnishee notice. 
In June of last year Property Observer reported on the obligations for seller and buyers for $2 million plus clearance certificates.
Similarly in June last year Property Observer reported on new legislation on the sale of $2 million plus homes.
Property Observer also reported in May last year about the upcoming ATO legislation that will affect sales of $2 million.
Property Observer commented on how the new ATO rule on property deals for $2 million houses will affect Chinese buyers.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

All $750,000 plus property sales to be caught in ATO audit aimed at overseas investors

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The Tweed Coast property market is emerging as an attractive option for homebuyers and investors alike, offering higher annual growths for dwellings and solid rental yields, according to new data released by PRDnationwide.
Median sales price in the Tweed Shire region has seen an annual price rise of 13.4 percent and 6.7 percent for houses and units, respectively. 
Home sellers enjoyed an average sale price of $584,500; whilst units received an average of $395,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/19/rsz_slide_1_1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/19/rsz_slide_1_1.png" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/19/rsz_slide_1_1.png" width="700" height="425"></a>
The northern New South Wales area is renowned for its coastline, farmland and scenery and provides an ideal destination for holidays, and comes matched with a booming tourism industry.
A four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-banora+point-117761563" target="_blank">76 Botanical Cct</a> in nearby Banora Point (below) has been listed for $675,000.
<img src="https://s2.postimg.org/7ggeidejd/rsz_1tweedsale.png">
The report noted the competitive real estate market is also complemented by strong economic growth opportunities through the development of infrastructure and commercial projects. 
Anticipated projects being rolled out during the first half of 2017 have been valued at a total of $33.8M. Kingscliff Foreshore Revitalisation is the main infrastructure project, which commenced construction in February 2017.
The average amount of days that Tweed Coast properties are on the market has fluctuated over the past twelve months, sitting at 72 days for house and 51 days for units during the final quarter of 2016.
<img src="https://s8.postimg.org/fkfn3t5ol/rsz_2tweeds.png" width="700" height="425">
Similarly, a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-tweed+heads-122305186" target="_blank">5 Mugga Way</a> Tweed Heads (above) sold for $643,000.
Median weekly rents have also been on an upward swing since the beginning of 2016, and currently sits at $598 for houses and $440 for units. The area recorded a low vacancy rate of 1.1%, plus rental yields of 4.2%  for houses and 5.0% for units. Interest in Tweed Coast area property market is recorded at 527 online visits per property, compared to the average of 716 visits per property in New South Wales.
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Tweed Coast property an attractive option for investors: PRDnationwide

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/76310/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Chinese investors are often blamed for Australia’s escalating house prices but a number of factors might mean the demand will drop off in coming years.
A recently released report found investment in residential real estate by the Chinese is slowing. As the gap in rental yields between the two countries closes and house prices increase, Australian residential real estate is beginning to look less attractive. The lifting of restrictions on Chinese urban residential property ownership and personal investment monetary restrictions may also play a part.
China has 1,340 high net worth individuals and 568 billionaires. Their combined net worth is equivalent to Australia’s GDP.
Many Chinese investors have access to both legitimate and hidden income and wealth and seek to invest both in overseas real estate. This is at a time when China is in the grip of its own housing affordability crisis.
Why Australia has seemed attractive
In 2015, Chinese investors ploughed approximately A$6.8 billion into Australian commercial and residential real estate. Current Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) policies channel incoming real estate investment funding into new dwellings, creating additional jobs in construction and supporting economic growth.
Though temporary Australian residents may be required to sell older residential property when they leave Australia, many foreign nationals are able to retain, rent out, sell or live in newly constructed dwellings. This is a major draw card for Chinese investment in new residential buildings.
Other pull factors include Australia’s stable financial institutions, compared to China,, well regulated land title system, buoyant real estate market, high capital gains rates in major cities and lower deposit requirements.
Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) may keep an eye on these factors when considering new foreign investment in the housing market, but it struggles to counteract the push effect of Chinese property law restrictions and investor needs.
Factors in China at play
Conditions in China’s economy and regulatory environment also push Chinese investors to focus on overseas markets. The depreciation of the Chinese currency is a significant force. As this currency is devalued, Chinese investors reconsider what and where they can afford to purchase.
Australia’s rental yields of 2-3% in major cities are twice that of China’s. Legislative changes to residential property investment in China also makes Australia look appealing.
China has a dual property ownership system that segregates rural and urban land ownership systems. Rural cooperatives own the rural land ownership rights. Cooperative members can only sell to other members of the same rural cooperative.
This limits competition for rural land and keeps rural land prices low. But it also means rural land is an unattractive investment choice for Chinese.
Urban land, on the other hand, remains state owned with a 70 year lease system to housing owners. The system limits ownership of urban residential buildings to people with urban registration or those that have lived in and paid taxes in the same urban area for five consecutive years. This situation stops many Chinese from being able to purchase urban residential property.
Between 2011 and 2015, those who did have the appropriate registration were limited to a maximum purchase of two residential properties within their urban area – one property to live in and one as an investment. This limitation still applies in Beijing.
The limitation was put in place to counteract major housing affordability discontent as an increasing number of people were locked out of the housing market. This problem is exacerbated by the 30% deposit requirement on residential real estate purchases. This combination of factors forces many Chinese investors into purchasing properties on China’s black market where ownership is uncertain or seek investment opportunities outside China.
The Chinese State Administration of Foreign Exchange introduced new regulations to tighten the flow of capital from China in November 2016. This agency is tasked with the approval of outgoing overseas payments of more than US$5 million. However, most housing acquisitions in Australia fall below this limit.
From 2017, a new rule was introduced to limit the yearly foreign currency holding to US$50,000 for individual investors..
Larger Chinese development companies operating in Australia are known to sell individual residential units “off the plan” directly to Chinese property investors. Where this is the case, the developer has a vested interest in finding ways to circumvent the new limits on foreign currency holding in order to settle a contract. However, it will take time for developers to adjust their methods.
As house prices increase, rental yields generally fall. This is due to the large amount borrowed by investors compared to what they receive in rental income.
Though rent prices have increased significantly in Melbourne and Sydney, they have not kept pace with house prices. Rental yields have fallen in major cities.
In China, where the rental yield is 1-1.5%, some investors reconsider whether it is worth the effort of renting out their properties. Instead, they rely on the capital gain to create a profit while leaving the property vacant, preventing wear and tear to it. This practice has serious implications for the supply of rental properties in China.
As Australia continues to struggle with escalating house prices and decreasing rental yields, residential real estate investment becomes less attractive as a long term investment for Chinese investors. The reliance on capital gains may result in higher numbers of vacant properties in Australia, counteracting the FIRB’s intentions.
The restrictions enacted by Chinese regulators may slow the flow of money out of China in the short term. However, Chinese investors are likely to find ways to circumvent these restrictions. The lifting of restrictions on Chinese residential property ownership may refocus investment choice location to within China.
Erika Altmann<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erika-altmann-361218"> </a>is qualitative researcher, University of Tasmania and author for The Conversation. She can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/erika-altmann-361218">here</a>.
Zhixuan Yang is lecturer in Real Property Development and Management and author for The Conversation.
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Why Chinese investors find Australian real estate so alluring

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A beachfront esplanade terrace at Middle Park was the nation's top sale of a weekend auction listing at $5 million plus.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-middle+park-125172066" target="_blank">The Beaconsfield Parade terrace</a> (above) - formerly owned by Collingwood player Nathan Buckley - sold shortly after being passed in without bid.
Its subsequent sale - at an undisclosed price - matched expectations held by Cayzer agent Michael Szulc for the three bedroom modernised terrace.
It was sold by Buckley for $3.6 million in 2007 when the now Collingwood coach and his wife Tania moved to their $3.93 million Toorak home.
It had traded at $1.38 million in 2001.
The weekend's big sale came Friday night when after three years of marketing $70 million was paid for the Double Bay harbourfront, Elaine.
After 126 years of ownership by the Fairfax media dynasty, it was bought by software tech billionaire Scott Farquhar.
The combined national capital city preliminary clearance rate bounced back to sit at 76.9 percent this weekend, increasing from last weekend, when final results saw the clearance rate fall to 69.8 percent after 10 consecutive weeks remaining in the mid-70 percent range.
The rebound in the preliminary clearance rate has occurred against a backdrop of higher auction volumes, with 2,347 properties taken to auction across the combined capital cities, up from last week’s 1,751, however lower than one year ago (2,675) given fewer auction offering in most of the capital cities.
Kevin Brogan, auction analyst at CoreLogic said the higher clearance rate and increase in volumes this week were attributable to stronger results across the two larger auction markets of Melbourne and Sydney, with performance across the remaining capitals remaining varied over the week.
Across Melbourne, 79.9 percent of the 1,087 reported auctions sold.
There were 1,232 auctions held, rising from 828 last weekend when the final auction clearance rate was 75.2 percent.
The inner region of Melbourne had a preliminary clearance rate of 75.1 percent with the strongest results at the North East region and North West region, with 88.4 percent and 82.9 percent of auctions clearing respectively. 
<div class="story-intro">
The creative duo, Round the Twist creator Paul Jennings and his actor partner Mary-Anne Fahey secured the pre-auction sale of their St Kilda pad. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.43.09%20AM.png" alt="">
</div>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-st+kilda-125096482" target="_blank">The four-bedroom Acland Street semi </a>(above) sold for an undisclosed sum between its $1.9 million to $2.09 million price guidance through Whitefox agent Brad Ward.
It traded at $1.55 million in 2013 when bought by the couple who are spending the majority of their time in Warrnambool.
Jennings has sold more than 8.9 million books, including The Cabbage Patch Fib while Fahey is best known for her The Comedy Company character Kylie Mole.
The retired North Melbourne defender Michael Firrito and wife Bonnie, who are upsizing, sold in Ascot Vale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.44.21%20AM.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-ascot+vale-125093838" target="_blank">The four bedroom Kent Street semi</a> (above) fetched $1,316,500 through AlexKarbon agent Charles Bongiovanni who advised The Herald Sun that the reserve was about $1.28 million. It was bought in 2011 at $760,000.
In Sydney, 804 properties were taken to auction with a preliminary clearance rate of 78.4 percent, increasing from last weekend when the final clearance rate for the city was 72.4 percent, across 596 auctions.
One year ago, 818 Sydney homes were taken to auction and the clearance rate was 71.7 percent. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.45.44%20AM.png" alt="">
A Strathfield offering saw the inner west suburb top the Sydney auction results for consecutive weekends. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-strathfield-125101794" target="_blank">The $4.75 million Newton Road Strathfield sale</a> (above) was just six kms away from Sydney's cheapest, when <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-studio-nsw-ashfield-125151206" target="_blank">an Ashfield studio apartment</a> (below) sold pre-auction at $295,000. The $305 a week Ashfield rental last sold in 1995 at $65,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.46.51%20AM.png" alt="">
The eastern suburbs region, where 40 results have been reported so far, saw a 75 percent preliminary clearance rate.
The strongest regions were the Inner South West at 88 percent and Baulkham Hills and Hawkesbury at 84.2 percent. 
Brisbane was host to 124 auctions this week and so far 87 results have been reported, with 56.3 percent sold. A $990,000 sale was its top reported result when a three bedroom Coorparoo house sold. There were many prices withheld from publication.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.47.59%20AM.png" alt="">
The $990,000 top sale was<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-coorparoo-125145146" target="_blank"> a bungalow</a> (above) last sold in 1949.
Last weekend, Brisbane auction volumes across the city were higher with 134 auctions held across the city and a 44.3 percent clearance rate recorded. 
This week, Adelaide saw a preliminary clearance rate of 65.4 percent, with 52 reported results across a total of 82 scheduled auctions. Over the previous week Adelaide’s clearance rate was 58.2 percent and 61 percent one year ago. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.49.08%20AM.png" alt="">
Adelaide has the nation's cheapest result when <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-salisbury+east-125139414" target="_blank">a three bedroom 1970s Andrew Avenue, Salisbury East brick home </a>(above) sold for $253,000. It last sold at $80,000 in 1995. The price guidance had been $210,000 plus through Harcourts Brock Williams.
In Perth, 33 auctions took place, with Perth’s preliminary clearance rate of 53.8 percent across the 13 reported results. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%208.50.32%20AM.png" alt="">
Canberra’s preliminary auction clearance rate of 67.9 percent was lower than the 69.4 percent recorded last weekend. Evatt was the busiest suburb with three results including <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/16-60-copland-drive-evatt-act-2617-2013506730" target="_blank">a $490,000 three bedroom 1995 townhouse</a> (above) which last sold at $392,500 in 2011.
Tasmania saw 10 auctions take place and with nine results have been reported so far, there have been six sales.
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Beachfront Middle Park terrace nation's top weekend sale

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Future Fund board member Michael Wachtel and photographer wife Linda headlined the Easter weekend Portsea auction listings.
It was passed in at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-portsea-124942066" target="_blank">$1.26 million and sold soon after</a>.
There were 27 auction across the Mornington Peninsula the weekend.
The couple's  long-time Back Beach Road weekender was been listed after the Australia Day weekend auction acquisition closer to the bay.
The couple paid $660,000 for the home in 2004.
Kay &amp; Burton agent Liz Jensen has been marketing the home as a 'charming Portsea beach house'.
The classic 'L' shape holiday home has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a north-facing entertaining sun deck that flows from the kitchen, dining and living spaces.
Wachtel, who is also an advisor at Credit Suisse, spent $1.95 million on Blair Ridge which came with Fiona Brockhoff designed gardens.
It's been a busy time for Wachtel, who also sold his long-held Toorak home last month at a private auction for just under $8 million to Fraser Wilkinson of Wilkinson Electronic Document Solutions.
The Cross Street terrace, which cost $726,000 in the recession-hit Melbourne in 1992, sold through Kay &amp; Burton agents Gerald Delany and Michael Gibson.
They have paid $3.2 million for a 400 sqm Balmerino Ave, Toorak site where they intend building a new town house.
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