Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359523]

The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145590]

Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

What does it really mean for a building to be 'green'?

South East Melbourne

Apartments buyers are continuing to look further away from the CBD for value for money.

But high on their priority list is solid transport connections, a strong local community feel and infrastructure already in place.

Urban has taken a look at six of the top apartments for sale south-east of the Melbourne CBDS.

1. MCKN, McKinnon

Prices: Two bedroom apartments from $720,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4939]

MCKN in McKinnon is as close to Bayside without carrying the expensive Bayside postcode. The latest luxury development is MCKN, which is being developed by the veteran developer Dealcorp. Families have been snapping up the large apartments in the Glen Eira precinct, with just 41 apartments in the boutique five level complex designed by RITZ&amp;GHOUGASSIAN.

The two bedroom, two bathroom apartments start from $720,000 and three bedrooms start from $1.1 million.

2. Hurstmon, Malvern East

Prices: Two bedroom apartments from $795,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4807]

Hurstmon is Landream&rsquo;s latest offering in Malvern East, only 12 km from the Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;Designed by Tehla Clarke, Hurstmon comprises just 39 one, two and three bedroom residences, with just the two and three bedders remaining.

Two-bedroom apartments in the project start from $795,000 while three-bedroom apartments begin at $1,599,500.

3. Sky Garden, Glen Waverley

Prices: One bedroom apartments from $498,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2881]

GoldenAge Group have recently completed their development Sky Garden Glen Waverley, located above the redeveloped shopping centre The Glen.

The three towers, designed by Rothelowman, home 536 apartments, with only around 75 left to sell.

Prices starting from $498,000 for one bedroom apartments and $668,000 for two bedroom apartments. Three bedroom apartments are priced from $1,118,000.

Sky Garden residents will have access to a resident-only rewards program.&nbsp;The customised app gives residents a reward program for retail outlets in The Glen shopping plaza.

4. Aster Apartments, Clayton South

Price: One bedroom apartments from $396,000*

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124]

Aster Apartments in Clayton South, 24 kilometres from the CBD, is the final release in Cedar Woods&#39; sought-after masterplanned community Jackson Green. Designed by DKO, Aster Apartments is a collection of one, two and three bedroom apartments across three buildings, with apartments starting from under $400,000 with government grants.

5. M-City, Clayton

Price: One bedroom apartments from $371,300

[smartcode_project:default project_id=528]

The mixed-use development M-City, a joint venture between Saraceno and Schiavello, is one of Clayton&#39;s stand out developments.

As well as an office and five star Mantra Hotel, atop a new communal shopping centre, M-City homes 460 apartments designed by The Buchan Group.

The development features a&nbsp;community childcare centre, a luxury outdoor pool, landscaped gardens and lawns, a children&rsquo;s playground,&nbsp;tennis courts, BBQ facilities with an outdoor firepit, a state of the art gym and an on hand pharmacy.

6. Onyx, Bentleigh East

Price: Two bedroom apartments from $570,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3271]

Only two bedroom apartments remain in Onyx, the Bentleigh East development by Vanguard Projects.

Just 32 apartments across five floors, Onyx&nbsp;delivers a strong design statement through its dramatic contemporary lines with expansive apartments that flow effortlessly to inviting outdoor areas.

Apartments buyers are continuing to look further away from the CBD for value for money

Top six apartments you can buy in Melbourne's south-east

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Residential dwellings in Melbourne's outer south-eastern suburbs such as Officer, Clyde and Berwick fall within the $700,000 budget, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
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The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. 
The report notes these suburbs offer plenty of choices for those looking to buy as there are many newer estates in these areas.
A brand- new house and land package can range from $500,000 to $650,000.
Latest figures show that the median house prices for Officer, Clyde and Berwick are $557,000, $566,500 and $687,000 and depending on the size, location and specifications, can generate rental yields of 4.5 per cent, 3.71 per cent and 3.1 per cent respectively.
A four bedroom house in Berwick has recently been sold for $640,000.
Positioned on a 618sqm block, the family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-berwick-133901110" target="_blank">21 Shaftsbury Avenue</a> (pictured below) features two living areas, two bathrooms, and large pergola area. 
It is situated within walking distance to parks, public transport and shops. 
<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/2020/8/10/berwick.jpg" alt="">
"The recent crisis has rocked buyers’ confidence, with many facing issues of job security," the valuation firm said. 
The government has since introduced a new Home Builder Scheme for those looking to either build a new home or renovate, as homeowners will be given a $25,000 incentive which has been designed to boost the construction industry as it recovers from the effects of COVID-19.
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House and land packages in these urban growth zones are attractive to first home buyers and young families as they allow flexibility in designing homes to cater to their individual needs, the report noted. 
"In more established areas such as Cheltenham, Oakleigh and Mentone, housing prices start from $960,000 for houses and $600,000 for units," the valuation firm said. 
These areas in the south-east generally yield high sales and rental prices as they are among the most sought after suburbs to live in as they are generally close to public transport, major shopping centres and the CBD.
A current listing is a three bedroom apartment in Cheltenham with sea views. 
The modern apartment at 609/6 Railway Road (pictured below) has been listed for sale with a price guide of $680,000.
It comprises three bedroom, two bathrooms, open plan kitchen and living room area. 
<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/2020/8/10/cheltenham.jpg" alt="">
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What $700,000 can buy in southeastern Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Building applications have hit an all-time high in homes within Melbourne’s southeast, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggest in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes many homeowners and investors are utilising this time to work on home improvements. 
With the Reserve Bank’s decision to cut rates down to a low of 0.25 per cent, this means it is cheaper than ever for homeowners and investors to borrow money to make improvements.
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"In established areas of the South East, we have seen suburbs including Hughesdale, Parkdale and Carnegie undergo renovations," the valuation firm said. 
A renovated Art Deco home in Carnegie has recently been sold for $1.225 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-carnegie-133579294" target="_blank">66 Neville Street </a>house (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, marble kitchen, open plan living and dining area and entertaining deck.
It was last sold in 2012 for $570,500. 
 <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/2020/6/15/carnegie%201.jpg" alt="">
A timber Californian Bungalow in Carnegie with potentials for renovation and extension has been listed for $1.5 million to $1.6 million. 
The three bedroom, one bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-carnegie-133669942" target="_blank">14 Oakleigh Road</a> (pictured below) is currently under offer. 
It features decked verandah, central hall, north facing lounge and Blackwood kitchen. 
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Renovations works can range between $80,000 all the way to $300,000 for higher quality specifications. 
Renovators are also sourcing their own materials and doing DIY jobs in order to keep costs down, the report noted. 
Home improvements are more apparent in older homes, where owners are likely to undertake minor works or ‘gut out’ their entire home to install new finishes, appliances, fixtures and fittings while still maintaining the foundation and frames of the original dwelling.
The results usually speak for themselves, with increasing numbers of homes becoming more spacious, modern and customised to the owner’s lifestyle.
"Renovators and investors are choosing to renovate their homes for a number of reasons; one might to improve their current home to suit their lifestyle, others are renovating so they can sell it quicker and at a higher price in this current market which can yield great results," the valuation firm said. 
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Building application hit an all-time high in homes within South East Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Individuals and families who currently have home loans or are looking to get a home loan have the upper hand as the current market conditions are more favourable towards them, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The current COVID-19 epidemic is going to have a negative impact on key drivers, so it will be interesting to see what impact this may have on the property market in the short to medium term, the valuation firm said.
"The main local drivers that influence the property market in Melbourne’s south-east are overseas and interstate migration, affordable housing and infrastructure spending," the valuation firm said. 
Suburbs located within the City of Casey and Cardinia regions located in the outer south-eastern regions of Melbourne have become popular hotspots over the past few years for young families, first home buyers and newly settling migrants looking to buy or build their first home.
This is typically popular in the newer developing estates where individuals and families are able to customise their homes to cater for their individual needs with the aim of having a family friendly lifestyle, the report noted. 
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Suburbs such as Officer, Clyde and Botanic Ridge are located within the outer south-eastern region of Melbourne where it is most commonly zoned as an urban growth zone.
A four bedroom house in Officer has recently been sold for $622,000.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-officer-133333270" target="_blank">19 Harmony Place</a> home (pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, theatre room, open plan living/dining room and modern kitchen. 
It is close to schools and Cardinia Train Station. 
<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/2020/5/4/officer.jpg" alt="">
 
A contemporary style family home in Botanic Ridge is currently on the market with a price guide of $719,000 to $769,500.
The four bedroom, two bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-botanic+ridge-133448782" target="_blank">17 Maintop Ridge </a>(pictured below). 
Set on a 661sqm block, the home features central hostess kitchen, study/home office, and rumpus area plus theatre room. 
 
<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/2020/5/4/botanic%20ridge.jpg" alt="">
"The urban growth zones are part of the government’s long term strategic plan of urbanisation and densification for Melbourne’s future designated growth areas. 
"Growth of a community also comes with growth in infrastructure. A local driver such as infrastructure would often be an attractive factor to many as many individuals would be working nearby or would require roads and public transport to travel to work," the valuation firm said. 
<div>Notes regards COVID-19</div>
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This edition of Month In Review had its topic defined in late February with submissions from our offices collated through to late March. During this period, shifts in the social and economic landscape due to COVID-19 became increasingly dramatic, as demonstrated by the varied information provided by offices over the course of three weeks. 
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<div>This month’s residential theme on baseline property market drivers remains a common thread, and provides an indication of what influences to monitor as the property sector recovers post-crisis.</div>
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Outer South East Melbourne - hotspot for first home buyers: HTW residential 

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It is evident that the Bayside contains some of the best eye candy properties in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes demand has remained constant due to the prestige nature of the properties, whether because of their location, size or the lifestyle features they offer.
"Given the right market conditions, investors and owner-occupiers are willing to pay a premium for an eye candy property as an addition to their portfolio," the valuation firm said. 
Highlighted below are the highest priced transactions for 2019 and the highest current listings on the market today in the south-eastern region of Melbourne. 
A four bedroom modern house in Hampton was sold for $3.1 million in May. 
Situated on a north-facing corner block, the home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hampton-130624706" target="_blank">36 Margarita Street </a>(pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, three living areas, three bathrooms and double garage.
The property is located just a stroll to schools and the bay and a few minutes from Hampton Street cafe culture and shopping precinct. 
<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/2019/11/20/hampton%201.jpg" alt="">
An architect-designed home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-black+rock-131250982" target="_blank">45 First Street, Black Rock </a>(pictured below) was sold for $3.9 million in July. 
"Known as one of the most sought after addresses in Black Rock, this bespoke three storey design by architect Eric Sette embodies the true essence of luxury," the valuation firm said. 
With floor to ceiling windows, this property offers panoramic bay views, a heated pool and a home theatre.
"This is the perfect home to entertain guests with a touch of luxury living," the valuation firm commented. 
<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/2019/11/20/black%20rock.jpg" alt="">
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Demand for prestige Bayside properties remains constant in South-East Melbourne: HTW residential 

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Melbourne’s outer south-eastern suburbs continue to prove to be a popular region amongst buyers, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
It's particularly the case for newly settled migrant families, young couples and first home buyers who are taking advantage of the affordable land prices in areas of the Casey and Cardinia districts.
The valuation firm took a look at rental yield across the country to dissect where to find the best returns in their residential markets.
The report suggests there are many estates to choose from in these fast-developing areas.
"House and land packages are attractive for first home buyers and young families as they allow flexibility in designing their own home to cater to their individual needs," the valuation firm said. 
In the ever-expanding Cardinia Shire municipality, the median house price is $552,385 and $396,469 for a unit respectively, according to Corelogic.
In recent years, Pakenham has become a major growth area for the outer south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne appealing to young families with its proximity to parks, shopping retail outlets, schools and child care centres.
In the suburb of Pakenham, statistics show that houses are priced at an average of $485,000, generating a weekly rent of $360 per week, yielding at a rate of 3.5% to 4%.
The HTW report provides two examples, including a house and a unit. 
A single storey house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-pakenham-131806650" target="_blank"> 16 Jacaranda Way, Pakenham</a> (pictured below) has recently been sold for $595,000.
Set on a 645 square metre block, the house comprises four bedrooms plus study, two living areas, two bathrooms, double garage and alfresco.
The home is close to Heritage Springs shopping centre, primary school and Hippity Hop Child Care centre.
<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/2019/10/16/pakenham%201.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom unit at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-pakenham-131609490" target="_blank"> 2/16-20 Honeysuckle Close, Pakenham</a> (pictured below) has been sold for $437,000.
The 174 square metre home comprises three bedrooms, two bathrooms, outdoor entertaining area and single car space. 
Overlooking parkland, the unit is within walking distance from the lakeside shops.
<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/2019/10/16/pakenham%202.jpg" alt="">
"Whilst the rental yields in the outer south-eastern suburbs may not be as high as properties in the CBD and inner suburbs, homeowners and investors can experience an average annual capital growth of 9.3% a year for houses and 14.49% for units in these growth corridor areas," the valuation firm said, 
"This just shows that different investors have different strategies when it comes to investing in property and it all comes down to the individual’s end goal as some may look for properties that generate high yields and others look for higher capital growth."
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Melbourne South Eastern suburbs tipped for 9.3% annual capital growth: HTW residential 

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Over the past six months, there has been a continuing slow decline in the south-eastern Melbourne property market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report suggests that values have continued to drop and it is likely the market is yet to bottom.
For the inner suburbs such as Bentleigh East and Hampton, there are still a vast amount of townhouse developments popping up despite the large fall in prices over the past year.
"These higher value suburbs are often hardest hit in declining markets," the valuation firm stated. 
On the peninsula, estate agents are getting creative with their sales tactics.
The report notes that this was evident in a sale via auction on 4 May 2019 at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-dromana-130838386" target="_blank">16 Jetty Road, Dromana</a> (pictured below). 
The real estate agent employed an unusual tactic to ensure the best result.
He announced the owner’s reserve price prior to the auction, which resulted in the auction lasting only 60 seconds, with the winning bid being the $1.25 million reserve, according to source: realestate.com.au.
<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/2019/6/27/dromana%20.jpg" alt="">
The purchaser was from the eastern suburbs, suggesting a sea-change or perhaps an intention to use the property as a holiday home.
Vacant land has not fared well over the past 12 months as there is an oversupply and purchasers are struggling to obtain finance.
Many developers are offering incentives such as offering to pay building deposits.
"In contrast, the unit market has remained resilient in the outer south-east and the peninsula," the valuation firm said. 
"This is largely due to units being at the lower end of the market and appealing to investors and first home buyers."
On the peninsula, there are a few properties which are managing to buck the trend.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mornington-130630550" target="_blank">8 Mills Beach Close, Mornington</a> sold for $200,000 more than its 2017 purchase price and sold within two weeks of being placed on the market for $1,575,000.
The purchaser resided in Shepparton and purchased the property for a sea-change.
<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/2019/6/27/mornington%20.jpg" alt="">
A recent report named the suburbs that banks consider to be the riskiest in terms of lending (based on unsuccessful loan applications).
"The majority of high risk suburbs were located in the outer south-east being: Clyde North, Clyde, Cranbourne, Botanic Ridge, Tooradin, Blind Bight and Warneet.
"This can potentially lead to the banks selling up the properties or vendors being forced to accept a lower offer to avoid becoming bankrupt," the valuation firm said. 
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Oversupply of vacant land on Mornington Peninsula: HTW residential 

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Melbourne’s south-east is becoming a hub for first home buyer action due to the relatively affordable housing options, in particular new estates, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says first home buyers prefer a cheaper build contract and are prepared to complete these items after handover, compared to the turnkey packages more favoured by investors.
“In new land subdivisions there are often smaller blocks offered at a reduced price that would suit first home buyers who don’t necessarily require a large house site,” the firm says.
“There are unit and townhouse developments in the outer south-eastern suburbs which have an affordable price point, however they may not have the best capital growth prospects compared to the same product in suburbs closer to the CBD.
“It is a popular option at the moment for parents to use equity in their homes and become guarantor to a loan in order to either get approval or to raise additional funds for a deposit for a first home buyer.”
HTW cautions first home buyers against over-extending on a purchase to get into the market.
“It’s better to get a foot in the door and slowly work your way up to your dream house,” it says.
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-doveton-124954618" target="_blank">11 Dotterei Close</a>, Dovteton (above) has been listed for between $380,000 to $410,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-dandenong-124953858" target="_blank"> 25A Morwell Avenue</a>, Dandenong (below) has been listed for between $430,000 to $460,000.
<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/2017/03/10/25A%20Morwell%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
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