<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jwland-development">JWLand</a>’s De Burgh, the final residential release within the Northbourne Village precinct in Lyneham, is nearing completion just as the Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme prepares for its most significant expansion to date.&nbsp;

From October 2025, the scheme will allow first home buyers to enter the market with just a five per cent deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), removing some of the most common barriers to ownership.

With <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a> on track for residents to move in by late spring 2025, the timing creates a strong opportunity for first home buyers seeking brand-new apartments in Canberra’s sought-after Inner North.&nbsp;

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The project delivers 350 residences across two buildings, with layouts ranging from compact studios through to one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

JWLand has tailored the development for long-term liveability, integrating natural light, privacy and outdoor space into each home. Ground-floor residences feature private courtyards, while upper levels benefit from generous balconies.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and all apartments include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning with smartphone app control for lighting and climate.&nbsp;

Shared resident facilities include a rooftop garden, gym, lounge and parcel lockers, alongside landscaped green space within the precinct.

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For buyers, the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme removes income caps and introduces unlimited places, making it more accessible than ever. With most De Burgh apartments priced under $1 million, they fall well within the updated eligibility thresholds.

The policy changes provide first home buyers with greater certainty and a smoother path to finance. Combined with the quality and location of De Burgh, the expanded scheme is expected to draw a new wave of buyers to Canberra’s Inner North.

Residents will benefit from the project’s central setting, just 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD. The precinct is bordered by the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands and sits within easy reach of cafes, restaurants, schools and the ANU.

With completion scheduled for late 2025, De Burgh is set to be among the first major apartment projects to meet the expanded scheme head-on, offering first-time buyers a realistic pathway to ownership in one of Canberra’s most connected neighbourhoods.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Joel Robinson

JWLand’s De Burgh aligns with expanded Homebuyer Scheme, opening doors for first home buyers in Canberra’s Inner North

A subtropical pair of residential towers are in planning for a key South Brisbane site neighbouring the iconic Expo ’88 Skyneedle, with new documents revealing a vertically layered vision designed to respond to the precinct’s evolving high-density character.

The proposal has been lodged by&nbsp;Darveniza Group, which is also is behind the 400-apartment Station Quarter precinct in Alderley.

Darveniza Group, led by Jane Darveniza, the Brisbane-based investor and Queensland rich-lister and widow of the late property magnate Bojan Darveniza, is seeking approval for a mixed-use project encompassing 204 apartments, ground-level retail, food and drink tenancies, and office space across two architecturally integrated towers at 37–39 Manning Street.

Occupying an 1,822 sqm site, the proposed towers would rise above a sculptural podium base, with a recessed landscaped centre, rooftop communal areas, and a total of 220 car parks and 256 bicycle bays. The apartment mix spans one- to five-bedroom dwellings, with a design emphasis on generous balconies, cross-ventilation, and climate-responsive materials.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c1f501-2afd-440b-af49-67c257123ea7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20podium.png?VersionId=KFlksfWzmDRD.VIYxd_1q3VAel.nN3TH" />

“The development is conceived as two slender twin buildings that meet at a lushly landscaped central recess,” the Finegrain design report states. “The façade is highly articulated with the plan form stepping back and forth to reduce visual bulk and maximise internal occupants’ access to natural light and air”.

A hallmark of the proposal is its integration of greenery, both visually and functionally. Around 77 per cent of the site’s green plot ratio is delivered through vertical planting spines, a green podium wall, and rooftop amenity. Ground-level deep planting and landscaped communal zones aim to create a shaded, walkable interface along Manning Street.

“The stepped plan form introduces variation in balcony setbacks and enclosed apartment areas, enriching both the façade expression and the resident experience,” the design team notes. “At ground and podium levels, this stepping also enhances permeability, maximising pedestrian view lines to the neighbouring Skyneedle and reinforcing a strong sense of local identity”.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3f26dfc-6b93-465c-9ffb-0a2530372a23" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20site.png?VersionId=JflvKdqDxcaHTFbb9HL5TwoiRgeQ2LqA" />

The site directly adjoins the heritage-listed Skyneedle at 35 Manning Street, an enduring legacy of World Expo ’88. The accompanying heritage impact report by Pendergast Architects contends that the proposal has been carefully conceived to protect the cultural significance and landmark visibility of the structure.

“The design provides setbacks, tower separation and podium articulation to maintain the visibility and landmark role of the adjoining Skyneedle,” the report states. “The significance of the Skyneedle lies principally in its landmark visibility and cultural symbolism, rather than in detailed fabric or architectural setting”.

The proposal sits within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct, under Brisbane’s TLPI 02/2023, where revised planning controls support high-density, mixed-use development integrated with subtropical design and increased public realm contributions.

Finegrain’s design reflects this intent, drawing cues from the site's adjacency to Musgrave Park, the subtropical landscape of South Brisbane, and cultural landmarks such as QPAC and South Bank.

Twin green towers proposed for Manning Street, South Brisbane site beside Skyneedle

A first-of-its-kind culinary precinct is coming to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, inspired by global street-food flavours and best-in-class restaurants and entertainment.

Deicorp’s emerging mid-city precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-33-hope-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a>, will become the go-to precinct within the wider Melrose Park community, and at its heart, a first-of-its-kind culinary precinct that brings the buzz of Asia’s most iconic food streets to life.

Spanning more than 4,700 sqm, Melrose Central street food precinct is inspired by the energy and vibrant flavours of street-food neighbourhoods from Hong Kong and Tokyo to Seoul and Singapore.

This new destination will be over three times the size of existing offerings like Burwood Chinatown or Westfield Chatswood’s Hawker Lane, positioning Melrose Central as a must-visit dining hub for all of Sydney.

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Designed by Anthony Ho of Basalt Studio, this street food concept blurs the lines between culinary theatre, art, and entertainment, offering an immersive experience. Neon-lit laneways thread between open kitchens and live grill stations, while murals, interactive displays, and light installations will bring the precinct to life, trading until late, a first for the area.

“We’ve imagined our street food concept as a graduated evolution of everything people love about Burwood Chinatown, East Village and Regent Place, elevated by the immersive artistry creating a city-style dining offer,” said Bilinda Turner, Head of Retail at Deicorp.

“By curating the very best tenants from across Australia, we’re creating a fit-for-purpose town centre for 2025 and beyond. It’s something that people truly haven’t seen before."

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Melrose Central is far more than a food precinct. Spanning 30,000 sqm across four levels, the shopping centre will be home to approximately 100 retailers, providing a total lifestyle offering from morning until late evening.

Fresh food offerings span a brand new Coles Supermarket, Local Grocer, Korean Supermarket, Bakery and boutique fresh food, as well as a Dan Murphy's, while health needs are covered from a pharmacy, medical centre and allied health. Fitness and wellbeing take centre stage from a dedicated wellbeing hub that includes pilates, recovery, Infrared saunas and a gym, to name a few.

Variety stores will feature throughout, as well as personal care offerings from nail salons to hairdressers, as well as a dedicated early-learning centre on level 1.

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Situated above the retail precinct will be 495 Turner Studio-designed apartments that open onto 6,000 sqm of lush podium gardens and rooftop terraces.

Located just six kilometres east of Parramatta’s CBD and 15km from Sydney CBD, Melrose Central forms the retail and lifestyle heart of Melrose Park, an urban-renewal precinct that is set to deliver more than 11,000 homes, 22,000 new residents, and 50,000 sqm of park and open space.

A dedicated stop on Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2 will arrive at the precinct’s Hope Street entrance, and the forthcoming Parramatta Gateway Bridge will link directly to Sydney Olympic Park and Wentworth Point.&nbsp;

Supported by a 10-minute drive, this growing catchment of 200,000 people, which is projected to grow to 279,000 by 2026, and an average household income above the Greater Sydney average, Melrose Central embodies Deicorp’s vision for transport-oriented, community-focused placemaking.&nbsp;

Melrose Central street food precinct and the wider Melrose Central retail town centre are both slated to open in mid-2026.

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Melrose Central: First-of-its-kind culinary precinct coming to Sydney’s West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> has unveiled the fifth and final stage of its $1 billion Norwest community, The Orchards.

The final stage, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/zeste-at-the-orchards-norwest-104-fairway-drive-norwest-nsw-2153">Zeste</a>, will deliver 209 apartments across two distinctive buildings, Essence and Eden. The 135 apartments in Essence will be the first to be released to the market, which will bring to an end the decade-long vision to create a&nbsp;neighbourhood defined by design excellence, sustainability, and community engagement.

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David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House Australia said, Zeste's oversized living spaces and diverse apartment mix, which includes the introduction of&nbsp;Breezeway Sky Homes for the first time, deliver a unique lifestyle offering.

Early purchasers will benefit from exclusive VIP pricing as well as the choice of one premium upgrade, which Lee says is a "thank you" for their commitment to the project.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, Zeste embodies Sekisui House’s global design philosophy of creating harmony between people, homes and nature. Principal Ben Pomroy explained that Zeste is about living within the landscape.

“With two large courtyards, the lagoon pool precinct for the wider community and a central courtyard with pavilion exclusively for Zeste residents, the architecture frames an experience of living in a park," Pomroy said.

“Over 50 per cent of the site is landscaped, ensuring a deep connection to nature at every stage of daily life. The buildings are designed as a collection of smaller, finer-grain forms, with over 85% of apartments enjoying dual aspects.

“The focus on natural ventilation, generous layouts and communal interaction creates a residential environment that is both sustainable and socially connected.”

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Natalie Shalala, a member of Rothelowman’s interiors team said they reimagined the former site’s Orchard homestead with a contemporary twist. &nbsp;

“The design draws on the nostalgia of the past orchard – timber floors, the warmth of a fireplace, the rituals of the homestead and reinvents them for modern apartment living,"&nbsp;Shalala said.

“We have created two tonal palettes, one with pale honey undertones and another with a soft blush inspired by nectar. A highlight feature is the cathedral glass light box, a bespoke design element that re-interprets the classic lantern. It is both beautiful and functional, tying kitchen and bathroom spaces together in a way that feels entirely unique."

Shalala said the&nbsp;day-to-day liveability has been carefully considered, with abundant storage solutions, butler’s pantries, bike storage and joinery designed to simplify routines and enhance comfort.

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Apartments in Zeste start from $715,000 for one-bedrooms and extend through to expansive three-bedroom Sky Homes priced from $2.25 million. Floorplans range from 59 sqm to 144sqm.

The mix in Essence comprises 41 one-bedroom, seven one-bedroom + Max space, 39 two-bedroom, 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes (24 of which include additional Max spaces), and eight three-bedroom residences.&nbsp;

Max spaces are integrated into select residences, offering a flexible room that can be tailored to individual needs, ideal as a home office, children’s play area, or additional storage.

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Zeste continues Sekisui House Australia’s partnership with Altogether Group, providing sustainable water, power and data services to residents. Passive design strategies include cross-ventilation, deep landscaping and water features that encourage evaporative cooling, aligning with The Orchards long-term environmental goals.&nbsp;

Construction is set to commence on the Zeste buildings in early 2026, with completion anticipated in late 2027 to early 2028.&nbsp;

More than 850 apartments have been sold across the masterplan, contributing to The Orchards community of 1,300 apartments when complete.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150510]

Sekisui House Australia launches Zeste, the final stage of its $1 billion Norwest masterplan

A significant addition to the Bella Vista Station Precinct is in the pipeline, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/landen-property">Landen</a> formally lodging a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-memorial-avenue-bella-vista-40-memorial-avenue-nsw-2153">new apartment community on Memorial Avenue</a>.

Positioned beside the Elizabeth Macarthur Creek corridor, the project is among the first major transit-oriented residential proposals within the Metro precinct.

The masterplan, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner Architects</a>,&nbsp;outlines a four-stage delivery, comprising four buildings between four and fifteen storeys, and includes a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a limited selection of four-bedroom penthouses and terraces.

The project places a strong emphasis on housing diversity and liveability, with apartment sizes ranging from 50 to 180 sqm. The first stage will deliver 213 dwellings, followed by 231 in the second stage. Construction is expected to commence in 2026, pending approvals.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bb3d84b1-d2df-4e26-915a-31b27faf9b1a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/View02_01-scaled.jpg?VersionId=Gb0AUtZ3VXsLxrqUaw_AwT_vcBwQ_FJu" />

As the first transit-oriented development (TOD) in the precinct, Landen’s Bella Vista community has been designed to align closely with the surrounding Metro infrastructure. The proposal integrates new pedestrian and cycling paths, a new bridge over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek, and direct access to Bella Vista Metro Station.

Lush communal amenities are also central to the design. 'The Grove' and the 'Garden Link' will create landscaped community areas that reflect the area's agricultural heritage and provide direct access to the creekside.&nbsp;

The ‘Garden Patio’ is conceived as a multi-use indoor-outdoor facility offering a gym, study nooks, and communal lounge spaces.&nbsp;Rooftop terraces across the buildings will offer views to the Blue Mountains and Parramatta skyline.

<img alt="Bella Vista Apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="778da409-d5cf-4e7d-9ba9-0c36990bf0b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/landen-bella-property-image.jpg?VersionId=ukPpmVcHF71xRc7U3MUT5rtGwOsntMMz" />

Landen’s Head of Property, Shane Harding, said the proposal highlights the developer’s precinct-scale ambition.

“As the first TOD proposal in Bella Vista, it highlights Landen’s ability to pioneer precinct-scale projects, integrate housing with infrastructure, and deliver outcomes that align with government priorities,” Harding told the Daily Telegraph.

The project arrives at a time of rapid growth in Western Sydney, with Bella Vista alone forecast to more than double in population by 2046. The development’s location, between the Bella Vista and Kellyville Metro stations, positions it as a connected lifestyle hub for families, professionals and downsizers seeking access to transport, schools, and employment centres.

Pending approval, the development is slated for completion in 2028.

Landen plans 444-apartment community in Bella Vista Metro zone

Southern Highlands

Property developer Birdy is currently constructing a residential project in Sydney’s Southern Highlands.&nbsp;

The subsidiary of Australian builders, Tribeca, will construct a collection of just four pavilion residences, with the project tipped to attract attention from buyers looking for a low-maintenance home that offers privacy.&nbsp;

Located in Elmsdale at 56 Kangaloon Road in Bowral, each of the pavilions will comprise three-bedrooms, three-bathrooms and a double garage, with considered landscaped gardens in their surrounds.&nbsp;

Knight Frank Agent, Nathan Berlyn is marketing the residences, which are priced from $2.5 million to $2.7 million, saying the homes would appeal largely to downsizers looking for freestanding single-level homes offering great internal proportions, a low maintenance yard, within a boutique complex, all just minutes from Bowral’s town centre.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the proposed Bowral development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60c2adb0-8c33-40ed-a338-f78581c47906" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/01-%20LIVING%20VIEW%201%20-%20Woodland.jpg?VersionId=lVXY48eRRQDmlNsMcFmC1HFgrUj8YbTo" />

“One of the biggest draw cards for buyers in the area is the location of Elmsdale in the village of Bowral, with easy access to a huge range of cafes, restaurants and shops,” he said.

“Elmsdale also benefits from being only minutes away from many nature walks, national parks, historic villages, award winning wineries and beautiful gardens that are ever-changing through the seasons.

Berlyn said the Southern Highlands had seen significant demand during and post COVID from Sydney-based buyers.

“We are still seeing strong demand across multiple projects, with Sydney buyers from affluent areas seeking a weekend retreat or eventual retirement home in Bowral,” he said.

“This, combined with the demand from local downsizers coming off larger acreage lots, is creating strong interest in a well-designed project such as Elmsdale.”

Designed by Bowral-based Tziallas Architects, the homes will span from 214.5 sqm to 233.5 sqm, with land sizes ranging from 387 sqm to 407 sqm.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the proposed Bowral development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b35f301-f0bf-428f-95ee-8f5bb87fd273" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/02-%20LIVING%20VIEW%202%20-%20Alpine.jpg?VersionId=pNP6.goO9p9981mLEcipQ79Ba2W4wNDz" />

The residences will feature two living rooms which connect to a garden terrace with an entertainer’s deck, as well as an entry hallway with a built-in window seat.&nbsp;

Josiah Sciascia of Birdy said space, light and laidback luxury characterised the future-proofed pavilions in Elmsdale, which have been designed with quality finished for a low maintenance lifestyle.&nbsp;

“The residences are the epitome of Southern Highlands life,” he said.&nbsp;

“Vaulted ceilings, clean lines and easy flow floorplans come together to create a tranquil and inviting home for relaxing and entertaining.”&nbsp;

Under floor heating and heated towel rails will also be incorporated, in addition to a butler’s pantry, a gas fireplace, wall panelling and floor-to-ceiling windows. &nbsp;

“Each residence is individually designed to incorporate understated opulent materials including recycled brick, modern roof profiles, vertical v-groove cladding and contemporary landscaping for a low-maintenance lifestyle,” Sciascia said.&nbsp;

<img alt="Render of the proposed Bowral development " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="694fb501-efb0-4db3-aeb5-72ecf908e93e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/13-Elmsdale-Street-3.jpg?VersionId=ownMriuEIo7R5l2yd3VYNYvvF4qzBPLR" />

“They are also future-proofed for accessibility. Each residence is designed with generous space in the kitchen, master bedroom and main bathroom with large spacious hallways and flat entrance thresholds for level access.”

“Expansive double-glazed windows and doors connect each residence to the surrounding gardens providing an immediate connection to nature.”

Construction on the homes is slated for completion by the first half of this year.&nbsp;

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alisonwarters@gmail.com

Boutique residential development under construction in Bowral 

National property developer and construction group, Traders In Purple, has plans for a $65 million development in the Southern Highlands.

The group acquired the 2.1-hectare Argyle Street site in Moss Vale back in November 2021.

They will deliver 52 residences to the area, with the intent to provide wider living options for local downsizers and families who have been priced out of the Sydney market.

A mix of three and four-bedroom terraces and villas will be delivered, each benefitting from a generous courtyard. The residences will sit alongside a proposed Village Green, designed as an open space for residents to enjoy the outdoors and interact with their neighbours.&nbsp;

Bonus + Associates designed the project to feature high pitched roofs, along with an abundance of landscaping. Six free-standing homes screened by existing trees are proposed on Argyle St, in keeping with neighbouring homes, with the townhouses and villas set behind. The interiors have been designed by Duet, who have previously collaborated with Traders in Purple on the luxury boutique farmstay, Greyleigh.&nbsp;

Each of the residences will also be fitted with solar photovoltaic panels so that future residents will be protected against rising energy costs.

Traders In Purple National Marketing and Sales Director Nathalie Pasterfield said community feedback had shown a positive response to the architectural style of the development which reflected the country charm of the Southern Highlands.

“Our architects, Bonus + Associates and Duet, are incredibly talented at creating places that are contemporary but homely and this is what the community is telling us they want to see at Moss Vale,” Pasterfield said.

“There are also practical considerations that we have taken into account such as sustainable homes with renewable energy, private outdoor living space, natural light and a pleasant garden outlook.

“We tweaked some aspects of the design but were encouraged to see many who took part in the community consultation already looking forward to seeing this project come to fruition.”

Moss Vale is around 90 minutes drive from Sydney and has become increasingly popular as a preferred destination for residents, away from the tourist bustle of Bowral. Around 56 per cent of Moss Vale residents are singles or couples without children yet 86 per cent of homes in the locality are separate houses with very little medium density housing available.

Traders In Purple NSW Development Director Thomas Zdun said the development proposal had been shaped after consultation with the local community who were looking for an alternative to the limited range of housing types currently available.

"There is clearly high demand for homes that offer a low maintenance lifestyle so that people can move out of houses that are now too large and difficult to maintain,” Zdun said.

“The lack of medium density housing in Moss Vale is forcing many older couples to remain in homes that are no longer appropriate to their needs. They have lived most of their lives in Moss Vale and want to remain in a place where they have friends and a strong support network but can’t move because there is no suitable housing available.”

“We also spoke with a number of young families and couples unable to afford the high price of a house in Moss Vale where the median price has risen 30 per cent in the past 12 months.”

“With the option to work from home during Covid, a number of young professionals and families moved to well-established regional areas like Moss Vale but there are also many who grew up here and want to remain close to family and in the town they know and love.”

The site is situated opposite the Moss Vale Services Club and is within walking distance to the town centre, along with the train station, Moss Vale Public School, with the group planning to launch to the market in late 2023.&nbsp;

Traders In Purple plan residential development to meet Moss Vale’s medium density housing shortage

The Southern Highlands, around 110 kilometres south-west of Sydney, doesn't often have an off the plan development to talk about.

But Maeve is set to fill a gap in the market, offering something different to the grand garden estates and surrounding farms which are more typical of the area.

Located at 18 Kangaloon Road in Bowral, the hub of the Southern Highlands,&nbsp;Maeve will comprise just 12 apartments and 12 townhouses.

The three-bedroom apartments. ranging in size from 131 sqm to 179 sqm, will start from $1.7 million, and the three and four-bedroom townhouses, offering 221 sqm of living space, start from $2.2 million.

Reform Projects are behind the development, which will be built on the site of the former destination restaurant Biota which closed in 2020.

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Maeve is Reform’s first project as builder developers after an solid track record as a renowned builder for Sydney’s most prestigious luxury boutique homes and apartments in areas like Palm Beach, Manly, Vaucluse, Double Bay, and Bellevue Hill.

Knight Frank's Luke Hayes believes Maeve will appeal to a wide range of buyers and will cater to all ages, rather than just the over 55s market which most developments or property in the area doesn't.

Hayes said there would be strong demand for homes in the project due to its rarity of the offering, the location, luxurious design and inclusions, as well as the sense of space.

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“The generous sizing of the three-bedroom homes will have huge appeal,” Hayes said.

“This includes the fact that they are built on a large site, with the developer opting for fewer homes in favour of more open space to create an intimate and relaxed feel that captured that green, country outlook, rather than fitting more homes onto the parcel.

“With timeless architectural appeal, generous floor plans, luxurious finishes and leafy gardens, Maeve will appeal to a wide range of owner-occupiers.

“In particular the residences are a great option for rightsizers, which are those downsizing from a larger Southern Highlands house or estate, or Sydneysiders looking for a second home outside of the city and seeking a taste of the country life.”

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Hayes said the rightsizing trend – downsizing to a luxury apartment and townhouse living – was becoming increasingly popular in lifestyle locations, as has been happening in the city.

Bowral-based Tziallas Architects designed the homes, with Chloe Matters Design the interior designer, with the residences designed to provide the best of country life in Bowral with a contemporary twist.

The three-level townhouses are a contemporary reinvention of the rural barn, featuring recycled brickwork and beautiful, black-stained cladding softened by cascading balcony gardens and verdant ground-floor landscaping.

Features include a private basement carpark and lift to a personal lobby and upper floors, wine cellar, feature fireplace, a large outdoor terrace and landscaped garden.

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The single-level apartments will have a similar look and feel, with private open spaces in the form of generous balconies on the upper floors and access to beautiful gardens on ground floor apartments.Flexible floorplans for the apartments are available to accommodate the buyer’s preferred layout.

Bowral saw values for attached homes grow by 21.3 per cent in the second quarter of 2022, to record growth of 32 per cent over the past year.

“There is still activity in the lifestyle locations of New South Wales, despite a slowdown across Greater Sydney where attached home prices have remained steady for the past two quarters,” Hayes added.

“The length of time for an attached home being advertised in Bowral has averaged 149 days on the market over the past ten years compared to 66 days in Greater Sydney.

“However, the average number of days in the Bowral market has dropped to average 60 days in the past six months, while Greater Sydney averaged 66 days in this time.”

The homes in Maeve are expected to be completed by early 2025, with construction slated to begin toward the end of Q1/start of Q2 next year.

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Reform Projects are behind the development, which will be built on the site of the former destination restaurant Biota which closed in 2020.

Rare off the plan apartments and townhomes in Bowral hit the market

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<div>Quarter 1 of 2020 saw an atypical level of transactions (compared to the 2019 calendar year) within the prestige sector of the Southern Highlands, with sale prices remaining relatively static and no signs of major change in the high end residential and rural lifestyle segment, according to the November report from valuation firm Herron Todd White.</div>
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<div>They found that Quarter 2 of 2020 saw the ripple effects of COVID-19 when the start of the lockdown in late March brought with it an unexpectedly positive impact on the prestige market for the Southern Highlands as the area was discovered predominantly by Sydney purchasers seeking a family home, secondary residence or weekender style of accommodation and lifestyle buyers seeking relief from the urban and inner city living environment. 
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<div>HTW Property valuer, Tim Stevens said, "we had reasonably foreseen this upward trend over the medium term (six months) for the region as working from home became more common due to technological advancements and many employees being unable to attend their normal Sydney offices."</div>
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<div>"What we didn’t foresee, but makes sense, is buyers flocking to the Southern Highlands region to take advantage of the lifestyle NOW given that overseas travel and family holidays are off the agenda for most of 2021 at this point. The impact of this upward trend became very evident early on in the COVID-19 pandemic and is showing no signs of abatement up to the present time."</div>
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<div>"Quarter 2 and Quarter 3 of 2020 have seen multiple sales above $3 million and days on market for this segment have continued to contract to a matter of weeks now for well-located properties. This has been clearly evidenced by a number of older listings which had been on the market for over six months gaining traction and finally selling during this period."</div>
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<div>By way of example, notable sales included two prestige properties in Burradoo which sold for in excess of $4.75 million dollars each after languishing on the market for the better part of a year.</div>
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<div>HTW speculate that a large reason for the surge in activity in the $3 million plus sector is due to families in Sydney seeing extremely good value for money in the Southern Highlands. </div>
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<div>Typically, $3 million wouldn’t be considered the prestige end of the market in Sydney, so when home owners from the Lower North Shore and Eastern Suburbs sell up and realise the scale of improvements and land size they can obtain for relatively similar money.</div>
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<div>Another recent example was a $4 million plus rural residential purchase in Berrima by an eastern suburbs family which saw an agreed contract price with one prospective purchaser and an additional two families waiting in line to snap up the property in the event the sales agreement failed to close. </div>
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<div>Mr Stevens said, "the question for our prestige market as we move into Quarter 4 of 2020 and beyond is about continued demand and buyer depth and whether the current move to regional hubs will be sustained, thereby driving continued price growth."</div>
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<div>"For now, we can certainly see it continuing and it could well be that this push has been a long time coming, with recent events being the final straw for a number of urban dwellers to discover or rediscover the Southern Highlands and the benefits accruing from a rural and regional lifestyle," he concluded.</div>
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Southern Highlands prestige market sees COVID-19 induced surge: HTW

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The past month has seen the southern highlands property market go from strength to strength, according to the July Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. 
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The report notes a lack of stock due to vendors’ unwillingness to put their properties to market in uncertain times coupled with extremely strong interest from Sydney buyers has resulted in a strong surge in sales numbers as well as prices in the local region. 
"We had predicted this over the longer term, however it has been very evident over the past four weeks and the next few months should be interesting as we see life return to normal and the market potentially inundated with new listings," the valuation firm said. 
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A lazy $700,000 in the Southern Highlands is quickly becoming non-existent largely thanks to the above mentioned continual exodus from Sydney.
 This certainly doesn’t mean you can’t find anything for less than $700,000 in the region, however these days a brand new traditional family home in the three main suburbs of Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale are all above that price point, the report noted. 
The best performing suburb at this price point would either be Moss Vale or Mittagong, both of which have slightly older homes still popping up sub $700,000 and even sub $600,000 in the case of Moss Vale.
A four bedroom house in Mittagong has recently been sold for $685,000.
The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-mittagong-133955806" target="_blank">5 Waverley Parade </a>(pictured below) comes with four bedrooms, two bathrooms and garden. 
It also features ceiling fan, timber floorboards and external laundry with toilet. 
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A current offering is a four bedroom house in Moss Vale priced at $695,000.
The family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-moss+vale-132123446" target="_blank">14 Napper Close</a> (pictured below) boasts open plan kitchen, dining and living area, four bedrooms, media room and backyard. 
It is situated close to Moss Vale Town centre and local schools. 
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Typically rental returns are good and again off the back of the recent COVID-19 outbreak, enquiry levels from Sydney have been strong, resulting in improved rental returns to that of the past 24 months.
"We expect this price point to continue to perform strongly over the next few years, as working from home becomes a more common practice. In turn, this should result in more first home buyers looking in the area due to its good proximity to Sydney should they need to travel to a place of work a couple of days per week," the valuation firm said. 
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Southern Highlands: HTW residential  

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Celebrity hairdresser Joh Bailey and his champion equestrian partner Michael Christie have quickly found their next Southern Highlands renovation project.
The purchase follows last month’s $3.5 million-plus sale of their 12ha estate at nearby High Range, Wide Acre, which found its next owner in five days through Belle agent Di Dickson.
The duo have spent $1.225 million on a 23ha holding at Canyonleigh which features a ramshackle three-bedroom timber cottage.
They plan to redevelop the estate, including a Ralph Lauren style two-level barn. It is currently an organic orchard, fed by bore water.
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Bailey, who opened a salon in Bowral in 2015, bought Wide Acre for $2.05 million in 2016.
The couple had planned to get married at the property with 200 guests in March, but had to cancel due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
This article first appeared in The Sunday Telegraph
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Celebrity hairdresser Joh Bailey buys next Southern Highlands project

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Wide Acre, the Southern Highlands retreat of ­celebrity hair stylist Joh ­Bailey and his professional equestrian partner Michael Christie, has found its next owner in just five days.
The 12ha High Range property attracted a bidding war between prospective buyers after Belle Property Bowral listing agent Di Dixon held 20 inspections in just four days.
“The phones were running hot from the second the property was listed,” Dixon said.
“I fielded over 140 email and phone call inquiries, some as far flung as ­Singapore.”
Dixon apparently sec­ured around $3.5 million.
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Bailey, who opened a salon in Bowral back in 2015, said the quick sale wasn’t foreseen.
“I was so thrilled with the five-day turnaround on the property,” Bailey told me.
“I really didn’t expect it in this climate.”
Dixon sold the property to Bailey four years ago.
“It was perfect for their horses and their lifestyle,” Dixon said, but now the ­couple were trading up for more space for themselves and for their 20 horses.
They bought it for $2.05 million in 2016, having previously had an estate at The Oaks.
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The couple renovated every aspect at Wide Acre, with even the horses kept in designer digs.
They added a five-box ­stable barn, six paddocks and a round yard.
They had planned to get married at the property in mid-March, however had to cancel due to the announcement of COVID-19 social distancing restrictions.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
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Celebrity hair stylist Joh Bailey gets quick Southern Highlands sale

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INXS guitarist Tim Farriss and wife Beth have sold their Kangaroo Valley retreat in the Shoalhaven region of NSW.
They’ve sold Willabrook, their working Upper River cattle farm, which has also operated as a luxury country holiday let.
The 37 hectare property, set along the banks of the river, has been featured through the years on Better Homes &amp; Gardens and Burke’s Backyard.
It had been listed through Belle Property Berry agents Gary Dale and Nick Dale.
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Farriss, one of the most accomplished musicians in Australia, co-founded INXS in 1977, along with his brothers Jon and Andrew, Kirk Pengilly, Garry Gary Beers and Michael Hutchence.
The northern beaches couple, who married in 1981, have two sons James and Jake.
Away from the guitar, Farriss’s passion has been for boating, fishing and farming at the property, along with his ambassadorial roles for Bear Cottage, Landcare, Sydney Children’s Hospital and the Leukaemia Foundation.
The original 1920s main homestead has five bedrooms, plus two one-bedroom cottages, dubbed Mojo and Rest, that let at $350 a night on weekends.
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They both feature extensive decking, a fireplace, outdoor barbecue and a coffee machine.
The marketing says the land is reminiscent of a Harry Sutton Palmer landscape painting.
There’s also a self-contained manager’s cottage, vegie garden and a private, clear, deep water swimming hole.
The farm averages a 30 ­breeder carrying capacity.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
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INXS guitarist Tim Farriss sells Kangaroo Valley retreat

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Patchway, one of the Southern Highlands most impressive trophy homes, has been sold for an undisclosed price having been initially listed with record setting hopes.
The Burradoo home last traded for $4,175,000 in 2014 when bought by Ed Blackadder, the former managing director of merchant bank Hambros, and wife Elaine. 
With prize-winning gardens of rhododendrons and azaleas on its 8900 sqm Ranelagh Road holding, Patchway had initial $5.95 million hopes two years ago.
The Blackadder's had bought the home from the Wilson steel fabrication family. The Wilsons bought Patchway for $3.03 million in 2002 and carried out a seven-month renovation of the house. 
Inspired by classic English Georgian manor house architecture, Patchway dates back the 1940s when set on 20 acres. 
Built by the Eric Pratten, it was later owned by Neil and Beverley Cottee and then by Dan and Toni Regan.
The home has five bedrooms, a study and a stone paved north facing conservatory which opens to the outdoor entertaining terraces.
There's a grand entrance gallery with a distinctive cantilevered staircase which leads to three of the bedrooms, including the master suite that has its own dressing area, bathroom and private balcony.
The garden estate Lowenbrau which sold for $5.6 million in 2005 holds the Burradoo price record.
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Burradoo's Patchway finds buyer

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Real estate agency Richardson &amp; Wrench has opened a new office in the Southern Highlands.
R&amp;W Southern Highlands is headed by principals Ian Cameron and Andrew Blaxland.
Cameron was locally born and raised, and has operated an independent agency for many years.
Blaxland was, until recently, a director of R&amp;W Mosman/Neutral Bay.
R&amp;W Managing Director Andrew Cocks said the opening of the new office gave the network a presence in an area that was increasingly attractive to a diverse range of people.
“The Southern Highlands has long held appeal as a weekend getaway for Sydney residents but a number of factors are likely to see increased growth,” said Mr Cocks.
“There’s the baby boomer bubble seeking a more relaxed lifestyle within a comfortable drive of Sydney. But at the other end of the spectrum there are young families, priced out of Sydney, who see it as a viable place to live, with good schools for their children and a manageable commute to Sydney for work.”
The new branch is located in Mittagong.
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