When long-time Ivanhoe locals Graeme and Catherine, decided it was time to downsize, they weren’t necessarily in a rush.&nbsp;

Like many in their stage of life, they had started thinking about apartment living, but anticipated making the shift in two to three years.

That timeline changed when they visited <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela</a>, a new boutique development by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>. The project ticked all the boxes they were looking for: location, quality design, and long-term lifestyle benefits, which prompted them to bring their decision forward.

“It was the right place at the right time,” they said. “We knew immediately it ticked all the boxes, and we didn’t want to wait.”

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Their decision to downsize was driven by a combination of practical needs and lifestyle considerations. Their existing home, while much loved, had become increasingly difficult to maintain. It spanned multiple levels, included extensive front and back gardens, and was starting to show the wear that comes with age.&nbsp;

They were looking for a more manageable lifestyle, one with less upkeep and more freedom. A brand-new apartment with no maintenance requirements and the ability to simply “lock up and leave” gave them peace of mind and a greater sense of control over their future.

Financially, the purchase made sense as well. The available stamp duty savings, strong price-to-value offering, and timing of the settlement suited their plans, making the transition smoother and more cost-effective. The apartment's design and inclusions further supported their choice.

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The layout was both functional and flexible: three bedrooms, a butler’s pantry, a separate laundry, and a large open-plan living area. It gave them the freedom to host a family, accommodate guests, or set up a home office. The expansive balcony and elevated views added to the appeal, providing a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

“It just had a really good flow,” Catherine noted, something they found lacking in many other apartments they’d considered, particularly in the established market.

Candela’s boutique scale was another deciding factor. With a smaller number of residences and a top-floor penthouse position, the couple felt the development offered the privacy and space they were looking for, without feeling isolated.

“We liked that it wasn’t a huge development. It felt well-balanced, modern but still with a sense of community, not overwhelming,” they said.

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Equally important was the ability to remain in Ivanhoe, a suburb they know well and have deep roots in. After 46 years in the area, proximity to local parks, shops, and familiar faces mattered just as much as the apartment itself.

“We didn’t want to give up the community we’ve known for decades. Candela allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle while staying in the place we call home.”

With a Walk Score of 90, the village location supports a convenient, connected lifestyle. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/ivanhoe-vic-3079">Ivanhoe</a> Station is just a eight-minute walk away, and the neighbourhood offers access to parks, cafes, restaurants, and schools along Upper Heidelberg Road, all within easy reach.

Beyond the apartment, the couple also saw value in the broader vision for Candela, one that integrates residential living with public spaces and local amenities.&nbsp;

The development introduces 58 new apartments as well as a mix of commercial and social spaces that integrate contemporary architecture with the suburb’s existing character.&nbsp;

At ground level, residents will find a charming café and a lifestyle wellness centre, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. Meanwhile, the rooftop garden offers a stunning vantage point for residents to enjoy breathtaking sunsets, host gatherings, or enjoy barbecues with family and friends. It's not just a place to live; it's a vibrant community where every moment is an opportunity to connect and create lasting memories.

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Staff Writer

Why Ivanhoe locals are choosing to downsize to Candela

Mark and Roy Makari are expanding their presence in Sydney’s South West with a second major proposal for Leppington, this time envisioning a 900-dwelling mixed-use development just 850 metres from their previously lodged tower trio on Fifth Avenue.

Project management and construction management firm Creative Vision filed the plans for the&nbsp;multi-building project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/230-rickard-road-leppington-nsw-2179">230 Rickard Road, Leppington</a>. The proposal seeks to establish a new focal point for the precinct through a high-density, transit-oriented development supported by diverse land uses.

According to the Scoping Report prepared for the Department of Planning, the scheme includes around 900 apartments across multiple towers, including 135 dwellings designated for affordable housing. A mix of market and subsidised apartments will be supported by ground-level activation through retail and office space, a childcare centre, and a hotel, forming a comprehensive urban precinct.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34797362-f3dc-4d84-8235-2657fc5f3bde" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Plan.png?VersionId=Uzckrz9tUpDQl5lX1_WMhjnv16bsr8wG" />

The Design Report by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc-0">Studio SC</a> notes that the project “intends to deliver a high-quality, high-density built form that supports the vision for the Leppington Town Centre, integrating mixed-use outcomes and public domain upgrades.” The development is expected to be delivered in stages, although a precise timeline is yet to be confirmed.

The project will be assessed through a future State Significant Development Application, with the Scoping Report indicating the team will seek design excellence via a competitive process or through an expert design review panel. Early massing diagrams suggest a series of mid- to high-rise buildings framing a central landscaped spine, with emphasis on pedestrian permeability and public space.

The planning documentation flags a strong sustainability agenda, stating that the development will “respond to the urban heat island effect, incorporate water sensitive urban design, and prioritise active transport”.

<img alt="Mixed Use Development 230 Rickard Rd Leppington" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="369d7b54-1279-4cde-88ec-dcb215594414" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Podium_1.png?VersionId=QArL7B2kkLt63vl5xvL0FNV_ardAlez4" />

The proposal follows in the footsteps of the Makaris’ nearby Fifth Avenue site, where they’ve submitted plans for three towers comprising nearly 500 apartments, with 10 per cent dedicated to affordable housing. That project features commercial podiums, a childcare centre, and a new public park that would occupy more than a third of the site.

Both developments are situated within walking distance of Leppington Train Station and fall under strategic precinct plans promoting higher density housing. The town centre is undergoing substantial transformation, driven by state government planning reforms aimed at fast-tracking housing delivery.

Together, the two projects represent a combined ambition of nearly 1,400 new homes across just under two kilometres of central Leppington.

First look: 900-home mixed-use precinct planned for Leppington

Leading Australian integrated property development group, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a>, has released the signature penthouses crowning its landmark AURA by Aqualand precinct at 168 Walker Street in North Sydney, unveiling Il Magnate and La Divina as the largest and most luxurious penthouses in the suburb.

With prices anticipated to commence from $15 million, and each accompanied by a new Porsche Carrera 911 valued at over $500K, the residences mark the culmination of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/aura-by-aqualand-north-sydney-168-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">AURA by Aqualand</a>’s decade-long journey and the beginning of its final sales chapter. 
&nbsp; 
Their release follows more than $850 million in record-breaking residential sales and the building’s completion and occupation.

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The Richards Stanisich-designed 284 sqm Il Magnate and 224 sqm La Divina penthouses, collectively known as The Icons of AURA, are conceived as grand luxury homes rather than apartments, with expansive proportions, elevated materiality and curated identities that reflect their status as one-off residences.&nbsp;

Il Magnate features a grande master suite, complete with substantial walk-in dressing area and ensuite, three other bedrooms, second ensuite and another bathroom, powder room, open plan kitchen, scullery, substantial dining area and generous living room divided by a feature fireplace, and a multifunction wintergarden, which is ideal for a study and adjoining office breakout space. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, the La Divina residence offers the same amenities, sans the powder room, on a slightly smaller alternate floor plan configuration.

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Each occupies half of AURA by Aqualand’s topmost 28th level, comes with four secure car spaces and pairs sweeping Sydney Harbour panoramas with large-scale living spaces, refined detailing and a level of craftsmanship and amenity rarely offered in the North Shore market.&nbsp;

Penthouse residents will also receive Etymon’s ‘Black Key’ private concierge and lifestyle management service, an invitation only offering providing the ultimate in bespoke personalisation, including a range of everyday discrete services, from dinner party management, grocery deliveries, pet feeding or plants watered, dinners, snacks and coffee deliveries, event ticket sourcing, right up to organising travel visas and international airfares. Rarely seen in Australian properties, the service provides residents the benefits of living in a world-class luxury hotel-style home, akin to The Ritz, or the Waldorf Astoria.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>’s Director, Kirsten Stanisich, said the studio set out to craft residences that feel profoundly considered, contemporary and deeply connected to their setting.

“From the outset, we approached these penthouses with the sensibility of a grand Parisian residence - generous in scale, elegant in proportion and designed to feel more like a handcrafted home than an apartment," Stanisich said.

“Their elevated position and sweeping harbour outlook informed every decision, creating a rare connection between urban sophistication and natural calm. We shaped each space with expressive materiality, sculptural forms and bespoke detailing that invite touch and interaction.&nbsp;

“The result is a pair of residences defined by volume, light and an inherent softness - refined, flexible and deeply personal. These penthouses are unlike anything else in North Sydney, offering a sanctuary of true luxury framed by some of the city’s most remarkable views.”

For Aqualand’s Head of Sales &amp; Marketing, Alex Adams, the collaboration with Porsche underscores the shared ethos behind the residences.

“Aqualand’s collaboration with Porsche underpins both brand’s sharing an obsession with craftsmanship, design excellence, and enduring value," Adams said.

“Our penthouses are created for those who appreciate the finer details and expect the extraordinary at every touchpoint. Including a Porsche simply extends that experience beyond the residence - it’s a continuation of the lifestyle our buyers already live.”&nbsp;

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Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, said the penthouses represent both the pinnacle of AURA by Aqualand and an important design benchmark for the company’s future pipeline.&nbsp;

“These stunning penthouses reflect the purest expression of Aqualand’s design ambition," Lin said.

“The unparalleled design intent makes them not only the glistening crown of AURA by Aqualand, but the crown of North Sydney itself. They’re essentially a thank you gift to a burgeoning community that deserves this level of quality and architectural consideration.&nbsp;

“We’re leveraging the unrivalled standard set here as the foundation for what comes next, including our upcoming Anderson Street, Chatswood; 15 Blue Street, North Sydney and Central Barangaroo projects. Purchasers of these penthouses will essentially be living inside the blueprint of Aqualand’s future.

“These landmark residences demonstrate how far North Sydney has evolved and the strength of demand for highly curated, bespoke luxury homes. They’re more than penthouses, they’re legacy residences.&nbsp;

“With AURA by Aqualand now a thriving new precinct with residents well and truly settled, and our in-house world-class lifestyle amenity activated, Il Magnate and La Divina represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to secure an extraordinary piece of North Sydney’s future.”

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Joel Robinson

Aqualand launches North Sydney penthouses with free Porsche Carrera 911

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bokarina-qld-4575">Bokarina</a> Beach has quietly evolved into one of the Sunshine Coast’s most complete coastal lifestyle precincts, defined not just by proximity to the ocean, but by how residential living, local retail and everyday amenity are stitched together.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bask-bokarina-38-bokarina-boulevard-bokarina-qld-4575">Bask Bokarina</a> now represents the final residential chapter in that transformation.

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Over recent years, the Bokarina Beach precinct has taken shape as a walkable, community-oriented neighbourhood, anchored by beachfront access, Lake Kawana to the west, and a growing mix of cafés, specialty retail and public open space.&nbsp;

With Zinc Bokarina already delivered next door by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> (GVG), Bask is the last opportunity to buy a brand new apartment within the precinct, effectively rounding out a fully formed coastal village.

GVG has positioned Bask to strengthen that lifestyle framework. Ten ground-floor retail spaces are planned beneath the residences, extending Bokarina Boulevard’s existing activity and reinforcing the area’s everyday convenience, from casual dining and coffee to local services, within a short walk of the beach.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333359]

The residential component comprises 135 apartments across two buildings, Mydas and Caretta, with a clear shift toward larger three- and four-bedroom layouts and penthouses. That mix reflects a maturing buyer profile in Bokarina, where demand is increasingly led by owner-occupiers and active downsizers seeking space, permanence, and connection to place rather than short-term coastal accommodation.

Design and amenity have followed the same logic. Residents will have access to a heated plunge pool, gym, private dining room with a full kitchen, landscaped communal gardens with barbecues and a firepit, and a shared herb and vegetable garden, facilities intended to support daily use rather than resort-style turnover. Pet-friendly features, including a dog wash bay, acknowledge both buyer expectations and the area’s dog-friendly beach, located around 250 metres from the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141609 project_image_fid=333366]

“Bokarina has become one of the Sunshine Coast’s most desirable beachside communities, and Bask represents the very last chance to buy new in this location,” GVG Director Sam Gardner said.&nbsp;

“Our focus has been to create spacious, functional apartments that meet the needs of locals who want to downsize without compromise, as well as those seeking a full-time coastal retreat.”

Positioned between the Pacific Ocean and Lake Kawana, Bask apartments have been oriented to capture outlooks toward the water or the Glass House Mountains, reinforcing the project’s connection to its natural surroundings. With parks, beachfront paths, hospitals, retail and public transport already in place, Bask arrives at a point where the broader precinct is no longer emerging, but established.

Construction is expected to complete in Q3 this year, with apartments ready to move into this Spring.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=141609]

Bask to complete Bokarina’s Sunshine Coast lifestyle precinct as final apartments are released

Property development giant <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/avid-property-group">AVID Property Group</a> is approaching completion, and sell-out, of its Surry Hills apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rathbone-23-47-flinders-street-surry-hills-nsw-2010">The Rathbone</a>.

The Flinders St project has sold well over half of its 32 apartments, which will sit above two retail spaces.

Now hitting the market are the final 14 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, which start from $1.15 million. AVID is targeting a mid-2026 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51208]

AVID General Manager New South Wales Danny Boubli said as more apartments are introduced to increase housing options in inner-city areas, homebuyers are searching for a &nbsp;sense of belonging in addition to location, convenience and value.&nbsp;

“There are very few opportunities for new developments in Surry Hills, and since acquiring the site, we’ve even seen one early purchaser merge two apartments plans together, reflecting the demand for a spacious, premium offering in a prime location,” Boubli said.&nbsp;

“Demand has been strong since we launched to market – we don’t see these final apartments staying on the market for long.”&nbsp;

Architectural firm Studio SC has designed the building which pays homage to the former 1900s Rathbone Terraces that once sat on the 990 sqm island site.

Boubil said the team has made every effort to create "truly liveable apartments", through&nbsp;functional floor plans, security, storage, and the inclusion of quality fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5947 project_image_fid=51207]

&nbsp;

Sustainable design has also been implemented throughout the development, with natural light flooding each apartment, ventilation throughout, extensive landscaping and where possible, materials with a high level of recycled content and low volatile organic compound paints have been used. &nbsp;

Apartments range in size from 57 sqm for the one-bedrooms to the large-scale 165 sqm three-beds which are priced at $2,575,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5947]

AVID launches final apartments at The Rathbone, Surry Hills

South East Queensland

Carly Cottam, Founder and CEO of MOTIV, offers valuable insights for buyers considering off-the-plan properties in South-East Queensland. As a respected leader in the property development community in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Carly’s expertise provides practical advice for making informed decisions in the current market.

<h3>The MOTIV Difference</h3>

MOTIV, established four years ago, has swiftly made a name for itself by bridging the gap between in-house and agency sales teams. Carly explains that this hybrid model provides developers with the control of an in-house team and the broad market perspective of an external agency. For buyers, this translates to working with a team that has comprehensive industry knowledge and a wide view of various projects, ensuring a more informed and balanced perspective.

<h3>Benefits to Buyers</h3>

One of the key advantages of partnering with a company like MOTIV is the unbiased and experienced market feedback they provide. Carly notes that consumers today are more educated and discerning than ever before, often doing extensive research before making any property decisions. This informed approach is supported by MOTIV’s deep industry insights, helping buyers understand how different projects stack up against each other and what factors are most important in their decision-making process.

&lt;iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hjUPgZsdg8M?si=63cP4enM4ktCRi0o" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;

<h3>Importance of Due Diligence</h3>

Carly emphasizes the importance of due diligence for anyone considering an off the plan property purchase. Buyers are encouraged to research developers thoroughly and ensure they are partnered with experienced professionals like property lawyers and financial brokers. MOTIV assists buyers in this process, ensuring they have the necessary support and information to make confident decisions.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134197 project_image_fid=217320]

<h3>Early Engagement with Developers</h3>

For developers, engaging with project marketers like MOTIV early in the process is crucial. Carly highlights that initial workshops with the developer’s team, including designers and creative agencies, are vital to understanding the project’s context, target demographics, and overall feasibility. This early involvement ensures that the sales and marketing strategies are aligned with the project’s goals and funding requirements, setting the stage for a successful launch.

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<h3>Navigating Construction Challenges</h3>

Given the current construction climate in Queensland, exacerbated by the upcoming Olympics and significant infrastructure projects, securing a builder can be a challenge. Carly advises buyers to inquire about the developer’s relationships with builders and any existing agreements or intentions. Understanding the developer’s track record and their approach to securing construction services is essential in assessing the viability of a project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138199 project_image_fid=257204]

Carly emphasizes the importance of due diligence for anyone considering an off the plan property purchase

Michael Bird

What off the plan buyers need to ask agents: Carly Cottam, Founder and CEO of MOTIV

South East Queensland’s housing market is set to buckle under the pressure of a 52 per cent increase in annual dwellings needed to accommodate an estimated population boom of two million new residents by 2046.

That's the stark reality facing the growing region of Queensland, according to the latest RPM SEQ Market Update.

The report, which zeroes in on the South East Queensland Regional Plan’s estimates that 863,600 new dwellings are needed by 2046 – or approximately 34,500 homes a year – to meet the estimated population growth, concludes that the recently released Draft SEQ Regional Plan by the state government does not provide the framework to meet this target.

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The RPM report notes that South East Queensland historically averages around 22,778 residential lot registrations per year and, of that number, units made up 40 per cent, adding that if the region is to meet the housing demand target, a substantial 52 per cent increase in the production of new dwellings is needed.

While the SEQ Regional Plan has intensified its focus on building up rather than out, RPM’s Queensland Managing Director Clinton Trezise says high-density infill projects within the urban footprint are struggling to stack up as an affordable option due to a blowout in construction costs.

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“Historically, Queensland has not been able to achieve the level of construction needed to meet the future demand for housing,” Trezise said,

“The closest we have ever come is 33,821 new dwellings built in the 2017 financial year when Brisbane was experiencing an apartment boom. With the cost pressures on high-rise apartments not going away any time soon, going up rather than out is not going to provide the needed supply and certainly not affordable supply of new dwellings.”

“This massive shortage of supply has fed into significantly higher prices for vacant land over the past financial year, with the median settled land price across the region surging 12 per cent to $340,000,” said Mr Trezise.

Logan emerged as the dominant land provider in the market, accounting for one-third of all settled sales last financial year with the 1,323 sales recorded surpassing all other local government areas.&nbsp;

Ipswich accounted for 15 per cent of sales, followed by Brisbane (12 per cent), Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay (at 11 per cent each).&nbsp;

The Gold Coast, with limited land supply, represented only 3 per cent of the total land sales for the year.

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The RPM report has found land prices have grown rapidly in regional areas due to supply constraints, defying the market headwinds from higher interest rates.

Trezise said supply issues were proving to be counter-productive in enhancing affordability in regional areas of South East Queensland.

“The government and councils need to facilitate more land for greenfield developments if the affordability issue is to be addressed,” he said.

“Unfortunately, this is at odds with the latest SEQ Regional Plan which has increased the emphasis on high-density infill developments throughout the region.”

The Draft 2023 SEQ Regional Plan has shifted its dwelling growth ratio from 60/40 in 2017 (60 per cent in infill areas and 40 per cent in greenfield areas) to 70/30 in 2023.&nbsp;

“While there is merit in this strategy to leverage off existing urban infrastructure, especially in Brisbane with the level of public infrastructure being provided for the Olympic Games, this should not be a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Mr Trezise.

The 70/30 ratio mirrors the urban development policies of Sydney and Melbourne, but according to the RPM Report this approach will fail to address the short-term and medium-term supply issues faced by the South East Queensland region.

“Land is not getting developed fast enough by the current SEQ Regional Plan with complex approval processes, land constraints and lack of needed infrastructure meaning seemingly developable land cannot be unlocked to facilitate supply or simply supply cannot be developed fast enough,” said Mr Trezise.

“The reality is that adequate affordable supply is not going to come from apartments because of the cost constraints to build and affordability to buy are impacting the sector.

“While the ‘build up rather than out’ approach aims to maximise existing infrastructure for new housing, historically, the heavy lifting for new housing supply in South East Queensland traditionally has been done by greenfield land developments.

“South East Queensland currently needs to increase the output of dwellings by 52 per cent to meet demand. The only way to meet this demand quickly, and to address affordability, is to release more land.”&nbsp;

Trezise said more greenfield developments with smaller lot sizes can deliver a diversity of product, such as townhouse and terrace homes on smaller land sizes in the low to mid-$500,000 range.

“The clear message from the data in this report is that affordable housing is becoming less affordable because of restrictions on supply,” he said.

“The current lack of infrastructure in place to keep up with demand means we currently lack the horsepower required to increase land production to the extent that is needed. The state government needs to step in and open up more land for housing while looking at the infrastructure requirements to ensure it can be developed.”

Dwelling supply needs to double to accommodate two million people by 2046

A shortfall in housing in South East Queensland good news for off the plan buyers

Ten years of intense investment and premium growth - that&rsquo;s what the Olympics means to South-East Queensland real estate.

Confirmation that Brisbane will host the 2032 Olympics is a game-changer for the economies and property markets of South-East Queensland &ndash; and the state generally.

Property prices and rents are already rising in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106752 project_image_fid=169996]

Coast but the Olympics announcement will turbocharge markets throughout the region.

Spending on major new infrastructure has been pivotal in generating economic activity, jobs and real estate demand in SEQ in the past year &ndash; but the prospect of hosting the Olympics in

10 years&rsquo; time will generate an elevated program of investment and development.

&nbsp;

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The real estate industry tends to spruik a property boom after a major event like the Olympics but all the evidence suggests that the greatest impact for property markets occurs in the lead- up to the event, not in the aftermath.

History shows that major international sporting carnivals generate big growth beforehand.

The Sydney Olympics in 2000 and the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast in 2018 provide templates for how these big events impact local economies and property markets.

The years leading up to the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast saw increased real estate activity, thanks to the rising levels of construction of infrastructure and facilities, the jobs this generated and the consequent demand for real estate accommodation.

There were similar outcomes around the 2000 Olympics in Sydney.

The Olympics announcement also creates increased media focus on the SEQ region and the affordable lifestyle it offers. And it starts now &ndash; and will extend over the next 10 years.

As a consequence, the next decade will be a period of out-performance for real estate across Brisbane, the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast in particular.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515]

PIPA chairman Peter Koulizos has commented on what the 2032 Olympic Games may mean for the Brisbane property market.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Research shows that residential property prices do perform better as a result of an Olympic Games,&quot;&nbsp;he says.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;A study on six host cities, from Los Angeles in 1984 to Sydney in 2000, suggests that the impact on the economy and residential property prices is not even. It depends on the planning and the scale of the Olympic investment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&ldquo;Research on the London Olympics showed that areas close to Olympic facilities increased in value by 2% to 5% higher than other areas.&nbsp;

&ldquo;An investigation on the impact of the Sydney Olympics on the residential property market found that the markets of host suburbs experienced substantially higher growth during the bidding and pre-Olympic periods, but not after the Olympics were held.&nbsp;

&ldquo;PIPA has conducted research into Sydney&rsquo;s residential property prices pre- and post- Olympics that shows that from the time the announcement was made in September 1993 to the Olympics being held, Sydney was one of the best performing capital cities. However, post-Olympics, the rate of growth decreased significantly.&nbsp; &ldquo;Based on our research and analysis, it is obvious that Brisbane and South-East Queensland will benefit from hosting the Olympic Games.

&ldquo;However, the benefits will vary depending on the location of Olympic facilities and the new infrastructure to be built, especially infrastructure that will better link the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast to Brisbane.&rdquo;

Ten years of intense investment and premium growth - that’s what the Olympics means to South-East Queensland real estate

terryryder

What does the Olympics means to South-East Queensland real estate? Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

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Sunshine Coast developer Cube Developments has achieved a near-sellout success across three of its projects totalling $132 million.

Of the three projects, <a href="/buildings/beach-life-alex-118-120-alexandra-parade-alexandra-headland">Beach Life Alex</a> (pictured) - a $70 million project opposite Alexandra Headland Beach - has seen 30 per cent of its stock snapped up by Melbourne and Sydney purchasers who are looking for a permanent sea change.

Some units are still available including three-bedroom, two bathroom units priced at $1.465 million.

Another development, Allura Coolum which comprises 43 residences, is now a sell-out success after Covid sped up sales in the past six months, while <a href="/buildings/one-prosperity-1-prosperity-drive-birtinya">One Prosperity</a> also has no residences remaining across its 50 residences.

A two bedroom unit in One Prosperity was priced around $495,000 while a three bedroom apartment sold for around $595,000. 

Director of Cube Developments Scott Juniper said around 30 per cent of purchasers across the company’s portfolio have come from outside South East Queensland, with majority of purchasers being owner-occupiers who feel the location is superior to where they’re currently living.

He said, while the borders were closed, Cube Developments successfully sold 15 of its residences virtually via Zoom with buyers choosing to make a decision site unseen; and now that borders are open across the country, Scott said he is expecting even greater demand.

Cube Developments also has land estates throughout South East Queensland, including Woombye, Palmwoods, Bli Bli, Rosemount and Forest Glen.

Now, they are set to market Nature, an 8-storey Cottee Parker-designed project in Cotton Tree that will be home to 13 boutique residences. Each will boast views over the water and have access to a host of amenities including a 25-metre lap pool, gym, steam room and spa, private dining room and a wine room. It will open for expressions of interest later this month.
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Director of Cube Developments Scott Juniper said around 30 per cent of purchasers across the company’s portfolio have come from outside South East Queensland

urban.com.au

Cube Developments records near sell-out success across three South East Queensland developments

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Multi-award winning building company Choice Homes is a market leader specialising in turnkey housing design and construction.
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Choice Homes is active in select South East Queensland hotspots such as the Gold Coast, Logan, Brisbane, Ipswich and Beaudesert, as well as the major resource industry hub of Mackay.
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The company’s well-planned growth has continued through 2018 and into 2019, hallmarked by consistent job starts, outstanding sales results and significant award recognition.
In 2018 alone, Choice Homes has sold out stages at The Highlands and Camelot in Coomera, commenced 350 builds in South East Queensland and Mackay, and brought to market many new stages in key Choice Homes estates.
Over the years, Choice Homes has won many awards and in 2018 added to the trophy cabinet by winning the Apartment Complex of the Year in the HIA Gold Coast and Northern Rivers
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Housing Awards. They were also awarded 19th place in the Gold Coast Top Companies 2018.
The company also launched new display homes at Camelot in Coomera and at Royal Sands in Mackay, and has more display homes planned across its properties. Choice Homes’ first apartment project—101 Pohlman Street, Southport—has since sold out, and planning is well underway for a brand new apartment development, with release scheduled for 2020.
Behind this outstanding market success is a 26-year-old family-owned company that has executed strategic expansion into several complementary real estate and development businesses.
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Each addition to the Choice group of companies has become a success story in its own right, while simultaneously bolstering client service and satisfaction.
MPM Property Sales and Management, for example, a standalone real estate and property management company, has an office at Parkwood on the Gold Coast, one in Ipswich and a third office which has recently opened at the booming suburb of Pimpama, each staffed by professional sales and property management teams.
As some parts of Australia’s property market have begun to cool down, South East Queensland and the highly sought-after growth corridor between the Gold Coast and Brisbane are selling at a strong and reliable rate. This is where you will find Choice Homes’ premier land developments, next to the billions of dollars’ worth of key infrastructure and employment hubs.
2019 will see Choice Homes continue to create industry-leading homes to satisfy the strong demand across Queensland’s key growth markets.
Following 26 years’ proven performance as one of Queensland’s premier builders, Choice Homes has secured an enviable land supply from key residential developers in Queensland and northern NSW.
Choice Homes continues to be a strong contributor to the community. It sponsors and supports a number of business, sporting and community-based initiatives each and every year and will continue to do so into the future.
To download Choice Homes Urban Appeal 2019 magazine, <a href="https://www.choicehomes.com.au/estate/sovereign-estate" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Who are Choice Homes?

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The South East Queensland (SEQ) land market experienced its strongest monthly sales in more than five years in June with the Federal Government’s HomeBuilder scheme and State Government grants underpinning buyer demand. 
Total land sales in June were 1,110, compared to 273 in April – more than 400 percent increase.
Prices remained relatively stable during the quarter, falling 0.8 percent to a median price of $248,000 compared to the March quarter.
In the 12 months to the end of June, prices rose 1.5 percent. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2020/8/20/SEQ%20LGA%20Median%20prices.JPG" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>:
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/8/20/SEQ%20LGA%20Median%20prices.JPG" alt="">
In terms of sales in each region, Moreton Bay moved into the top spot in the South East Queensland land market, taking 26 percent market share. For the first time since March 2016, neither Logan nor Ipswich have claimed the largest portion of sales. 
Logan managed to push Ipswich to third place and achieved 24.9 percent of sales while Ipswich collected 24.7 percent, only a handful of sales separated the two regions. This is the first time that Ipswich has been outside of the top two since early 2015.
After dropping to just 273 sales across the south east in April as lockdowns closed sales offices and dented economic confidence, the market roared back to achieve 1,110 sales in June.
The total number of sales for the June quarter was 1,910, up from 1,518 in the March quarter and the strongest quarterly sales since December 2017. 
The data was compiled by Oliver Hume Research by analysing nearly 2,000 transactions across more than 150 projects across Brisbane, Gold Coast, Logan, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and Redland local government areas. 
Oliver Hume National Head of Research George Bougias said the HomeBuilder grant, combined with record low interest rates, was driving the demand from first and second home buyers. 
“Despite the Coronavirus shutdowns and their economic impact, there are still plenty of buyers with stable incomes who are more than happy to take advantage of the numerous grants and incentives available,” he said. 
“These are the right incentives at the right time and will keep thousands of tradies in jobs as homes begin to spring up on these blocks in the next few months.
“The first half of 2019 was a tough time for the SEQ land market but there was a solid recovery underway towards the end of the year and right up until the lockdowns commenced in the final two weeks of March,” he said. 
"With the restrictions lifted and the great incentives in place the pent-up demand is returning.” 
The $25,000 HomeBuilder grant combined with $15,000 first home buyer grant from the State Government, means eligible buyers can access $40,000 to help them get on the property ladder. Other incentives, including the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS), can save buyers thousands more on top of the grants.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

South East Queensland land market has strongest sales in five years with HomeBuilder scheme

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Houses in southeast Queensland are enjoying higher demand and improved capital growth as buyer confidence rises.
According to the latest RiskWise Property Research Risks &amp; Opportunities Report, housing finance in Queensland is showing signs of improvement with an increase of 16.9 per cent since February 2019 after a reduction of 7.7 per cent relative to August 2018.
At this stage only modest (i.e. 3-5%) price growth is expected with the likelihood for strong (i.e. double digits) price increase low.
While the Sydney and Melbourne markets were experiencing continued (while improving) issues in relation to housing unaffordability, southeast Queensland enjoyed a more stable market, good population growth and healthy rental returns, making it attractive to both home buyers and property investors.
However, he said while houses were enjoying a resurgence in demand, this was not the case for units.
Units in Queensland, particularly in high-supply areas and other places where the demand for units is consistently low (and houses enjoy strong popularity as a dwelling alternative), also carry a higher level of risk.
One of the reasons for this is because the demand for units among owner-occupiers is low.
Also, in addition to APRA’s lending restrictions, units in some suburbs are also subject to voluntary lending restrictions by major lenders, such as lower loan-to-value ratio due to oversupply.
Units in inner-city Brisbane have the highest level of risk with a very large number of properties in the pipeline and increased rates of defaults for those bought off-the-plan. In fact, many areas with oversupply have been labelled 'danger zones' by lenders and also have low sales volumes.
Mr Peleg said with many of these over-supply areas also presenting a major financing barrier due to requirements for large deposits, in particular off-the-plan units, there was a high level of risk that should be further assessed based on the absorption of the current supply into the market in the next two years and the reduction in commencements.
He said the impact in the short to medium term would be gradually mitigated by a reduction in these dwelling commencements alongside strong population growth.
Mr Peleg noted that the Queensland market greatly varied between high and low-performing areas and special attention should be given to the different job markets across the state, particularly since the unemployment rate had risen from 5.9 per cent in April to 6.5 per cent in October.
This is especially the case in the mining towns in Central and North Queensland, that generally experience low demand, versus houses in popular beachside suburbs on the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast that have delivered strong capital growth.
It is important to remember that a softer employment market is well connected with low population growth, lower demand for dwellings and price reductions.
The risk associated with the Queensland market should be monitored closely at the SA4 level, as deteriorating employment conditions are likely to have a significant negative impact on dwelling prices.
The mining towns still present a relatively higher investment risk due to a very large proportion of investors with negative equity and insufficient growth drivers since the end of the boom.
DORON PELEG is the CEO at RiskWise
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Positive outlook for southeast Queensland's housing market in 2020: RiskWise's Doron Peleg

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<div>A 2.33 hectare block of land has been sold to a south east Queensland project developer and builder for $6.4 million.</div>
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<div>Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-residential+land-qld-taigum-202087566" target="_blank">281-295 Handford Road, Taigum</a>, the cleared, elevated site has access to water and sewerage infrastructure and is in close proximity to local shopping, education, recreation and public transport facilities.</div>
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<div>The deal was jointly brokered by the Ray White Special Projects Queensland team of Mark Creevey and Tony Williams.</div>
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<div>Mr Creevey said the land sold following a six-week expressions of interest campaign and enquiries were high.</div>
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<div>“Throughout the process we had 70 enquiries, and at the close of the expressions of interest period, we had eight strong offers to consider,” he said.</div>
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<div>“With the site ripe for development and being only 14.5 km north of Brisbane CBD, we’re pleased to see that so many people appreciated the opportunity that was on offer.”</div>
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<div>Mr Williams said while the site was originally approved for 104 x 3 bedroom townhouses, there was interest in the site for a variety of potential development outcomes.</div>
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<div>“Despite the townhouses being aimed towards the investment sector, there was also strong interest from the market from groups seeking to undertake a variety of other residential uses, including lower density townhouse development, land subdivision and retirement/aged care,” he said.</div>
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<div>“The strong level of enquiry is evidence of the continued demand for approved residential in-fill sites in the Brisbane City Council LGA.”</div>
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Approved Taigum development site sells for $6.4M

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A Queensland entrepreneur has launched a website to display all data, zoning and council plans of a property within South East Queensland.
Developer Alex Steffan, pictured above, said the <a href="https://propertease.com.au/" target="_blank">PropertEASE</a> website features development possibilities such as subdividing, units, rezoning, height restriction by typing in your address.
“In a just a few seconds, PropertEASE supplies all the complex council information in an easy-to-read report," Steffan said.
“Until now property owners have had to deal with the council, which can be very tedious, or contact a town planner, which can be expensive. 
“I’ve spent the last three years accumulating all the council data - zonings, planning data, every bit of information regarding a property is now all on one website.
“It’s for everyone interested in property, home owners, buyers, sellers, developers, real estate agents - with PropertEASE you have a town planner’s knowledge at your fingertips.    
“Most owners have no idea where to start or what questions to ask when it comes to their property."
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South East Queensland

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