National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Survey

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<div>NAB releases its June 2015 Business Survey which revealed some interesting results, with unemployment now expected to peak at 6.25% and other near term data strengthening.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Business conditions trending higher moving up strongly from +5 to +11, the highest level since last October and well above the long run average.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab1.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>Business confidence is also back up to its post election peak, moving up nicely from +8 to +10, with the highest recording now to be found in retail (the lowest confidence, of course, is in mining):</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab2.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>And trading conditions booming:</div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2015/07/15/Nab3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="/images/2015/07/15/Nab3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>The forward orders index also rose from +2 to +5.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Buffers</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the other hand, consumer confidence has been ticked a little lower lately, which has led in turn to some remarkable loan "arrears" data.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The average homeowner is now so far ahead on mortgage repayments that loans buffers are better measured in years than months. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>It's amazing how often this theme is recurrent with clients I speak to.</div>
 The full NAB survey can be found <a href="https://business.nab.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/NAB-Business-survey-June-15.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

NAB business survey - an upside surprise: Pete Wargent

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Over 80 per cent of residential real estate agents around the world say the coronavirus pandemic has cut their 2020 earning expectations, according to the first international survey of real estate on the impact of the outbreak.
More than 60 countries took part in the Juwai IQI Market Intelligence 2020 survey, with every country citing a loss of earnings.
Real estate agents in Greece have the worst outlook.
Some 95 per cent of Greek agents expect the coronavirus pandemic to cut their earnings in 2020, with two-thirds of those forecasting they will earn "significantly less."
 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/3/Screen%20Shot%202020-04-01%20at%2010.26.02%20am.png" alt="">
As well as Greece, more than four out of five agents in a further five countries expect to earn less in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic.
In Australia, 84% of agents expect to earn less in 2020, with 58% suggesting the impact on their earnings will be significant and only 27% expect it to be moderate. 
In Singapore, 88% of agents expect to make less.
The share of Singapore agents who expect to earn "a little less" is, at 47%, larger than the 41% who believe they will make "significantly less."
Malaysian and Philippine agents are the least pessimistic among those surveyed.
In Malaysia, 74% of agents expect to earn less in 2020, with 38% expecting to earn “significantly less” and 33% expecting to earn “a little less.”
In the Philippines, 68% of agents expect to earn less in 2020 due to the Coronavirus, with 38% expecting to earn “significantly less” and 30% expecting to earn “a little less.”
One of the strategies agents will use to preserve their incomes, according to the report, is to invest more in marketing to foreign buyers. Worldwide, 18% of agents report foreign buyers are one of their strategies.
Perhaps because of the relative significance of foreign buyers to their markets, agents in the Philippines and Portugal are the most likely to report plans to do so. In both the Philippines and Portugal, 26% of agents plan to increase their foreign buyer marketing.
In Malaysia and Thailand, 22% of agents will increase their investment in marketing to foreign buyers. In Greece, 21% of agents will do so. The share is 18% in Singapore, 16% in both Canada and Australia, and 12% in the USA.
 
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wdavis-8cCN98p7xp

Coronavirus driving agents earnings down worldwide; Juwai IQI Market Intelligence 2020 survey

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The number of consumers who don’t think will be a good time to sell their home or investment property continues to out-weigh those who think it is, according to a new survey. 
NAB's latest Australian Consumer Anxiety Survey for Q2 2019 noted these results suggest many consumers still think the housing downturn could still have more to run.
In net terms, +32% said they thought now was a good time to buy a property to live in and +34% to renovate their home.
With house prices continuing to fall across the country, consumers who thought it wasn’t a good time to sell their home (-35%) or investment property (-33%) also continued to significantly out-weigh those who thought it was a good time to sell.
However, the net number who thought so was somewhat lower than in the previous quarter, suggesting that some consumers may believe the market is close to the bottom.
With downward pressures on interest rates, it also noted a large increase in the net number of consumers who thought it was a good time to get a mortgage on their home (+13).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%201.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
On balance, slightly more consumers (+29%) believe it will be a good time to buy a property to live in over the next 12 months (+25% in Q1 2019), and +24% to renovate their home (+23% in Q1 2019).
The number of consumers who don’t think it will be a good time to sell their home (-15%) or investment property (-14%) continues to out-weigh those who think it is - but this has fallen since Q1 2019, suggesting more consumers are expecting market conditions to improve.
With widespread speculation for further interest rate cuts in 2019, those who think it will be a good time to take out a mortgage a mortgage for their own home (+10) also rose.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%202.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
Consumer intentions around property are still overwhelming conservative.
The net number of consumers who said they didn’t intend to sell investment property (-83%), renovate an investment property (-81%), take out an investment loan (-79%), sell their home (-78%), buy investment property (-75%), take out a home loan (-74%) or sell the home they live in (-66%) far outweighed those who said they would.
Consumers were least negative about renovating their homes (-49%). Intentions remain overwhelmingly negative and conservative in all states - see table below.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Good%20time%20NAB%203.JPG" alt="">
Source: NAB Anxiety Report Q2 2019
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Australians still fear the property market has further to fall: NAB

<html><body>
Over 40 percent of respondents of a recent survey said they were reliant on future house price growth to achieve future life / financial goals, with 10 percent completely reliant.
The study of 1500 Australian adults also saw 38 percent want prices to increase while 37 percent want them to fall.
Where you sit largely comes down to your property ownership status: 39 percent of those who own the home they live in and 47 percent who own an investment property indicated they are ‘reliant’ on future prices, presumably increasing, while 48 percent of those who don’t own a property also say they are reliant, presumably wanting prices to fall.
Younger respondents indicated they are more reliant on future house prices than older: 51 percent of Millennials (25 to 39 year olds) said they are reliant compared to 30 percent of Baby Boomers (55-74 year olds).
Most tellingly, the survey indicates more Australians would benefit from property prices falling than rising, with only 28 percent indicating they’d benefit by selling if prices continued to rise compared to 47 percent who said they’d benefit by buying in if property prices fell.
A quarter of home owners happy to see house prices to fall
ME home loan expert Patrick Nolan said he was surprised to find 37 percent of respondents want property prices to fall, including 24 percent of those who own a home and even 20 percent of those with an investment property, compared to 38 percent of who want prices to continue rising 38 percent.
“Traditionally Australians fall into two camps when it comes to property prices: owners, who want them to rise, and non-owners, who want them to fall.
“But with high prices disrupting the dream of home ownership and the benefits that brings, views are changing.”
“That property owners were willing to see asset values fall is a sure sign house prices had reached heights many think are unfair,” Nolan said.
When asked why they want prices to fall, the overwhelming reason given was to help address the housing affordability issue (57 percent), a sentiment expressed by 97 percent of those with property.
The bulk of those wanting house prices to continue rising are property owners: 49 percent of home owners and 55 percent of investors.
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New survey confirms the importance of property to Australians

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Regulatory moves to tighten lending to foreign buyers seem to be working, with their share in new property markets falling to a five-year low 9.5%,  according to a NAB index.
However, the share of foreign buyers edged up to 5.9% in established markets, albeit still near four-year lows. 
The figures are part of NAB’s Residential Property Survey for the quarter ended September. 
The data was cited by CoreLogic’s head of research Cameron Kusher.
“NAB's quarterly residential property survey indicates that there has been a big pullback in foreign demand for residential property,” Kusher tweeted. 
NAB’s note had said that “we have maintained our view for more muted market performance going forward, particularly following our revised expectations for RBA rate hikes which have been brought forward to mid-2018 (from H2 2019)”.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABForeignDemand.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABForeignDemand.png" alt="">
Victoria had the lowest foreign buying activity in new property markets, where the share of sales to foreign buyers fell to 14.4% (20.8% in Q2). 
Foreign buyers were also noticeably less prevalent in NSW, where their market share fell to 7.8% - its lowest level since Q1 2012 and down from 12.0% in Q2. The proportion of foreign buyers in new property markets also fell in WA to 4.5% (6.9% in Q2). In contrast, foreign buyers increased their market share in Queensland to 11.4% (8.6% in Q2) despite the introduction of a foreign investor land tax surcharge in July 2017. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph2.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph3.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/17/NABgraph3.png" alt="">
In established housing markets, the overall share of foreign buyers rose a little from 5.6% to 5.9% in Q3, but remained anchored at near 5-year lows. 
Foreign buyers accounted for a smaller share of sales in Victoria (8.0% in Q3 vs. 9.0% in Q2), NSW (5.6% vs. 5.9%) and WA (4.2% vs. 4.5%). 
In Queensland, however, they accounted for 6.7% of established property sales, up from 3.8% in Q2. 
 
 
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

NAB survey indicates pullback in foreign buyers: CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher 

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The Stockland Liveability Index has found the most important factors in creating a liveable city is for it to be connected, healthy, smart and affordable.
The index is based on the results of a survey of 2,500 people that was conducted between January and March 2017 in partnership with Colmar Brunton.
Findings and relevance to the future direction of our cities will be discussed at a special event hosted by the Committee for Sydney featuring land use expert Professor Christopher Leinberger, Greater Sydney Chief Commissioner Lucy Turnbull AO, Stockland CEO and managing director Mark Steinert, and co-founder of Roberts Day, Mike Day.
Mark Steinert, Stockland managing director and CEO, said they are delighted to partner with the Committee for Sydney and bring Professor Leinberger to Australia at a time when as a nation we are rethinking the future of our cities, with a strong focus on liveability.
“For communities to be liveable, they need to be smart, healthy, connected and importantly, affordable," he said.
"The powerful emerging market trend toward walkable urban development in the US is one we expect to see replicated in Australia, as our cities continue their strong growth trajectories.
“Capturing and applying the insights from research by experts such as Professor Leinberger will help ensure our growth story is a positive one for the people who live, work and visit our metropolitan centres.”
Professor Leinberger’s 2016 report, Foot Traffic Ahead, shows that: “For perhaps the first time in 60 years, walkable urban places (‘WalkUPs’) in all 30 of the [US’] largest metros are gaining market share over their drivable sub-urban competition — and showing substantially higher rental premiums.”
Tim Williams, Chief Executive of the Committee for Sydney said governments at all levels are accelerating their efforts to shape the future of our cities, with a focus on ensuring we have the right infrastructure and public amenities in place to make them sustainable and liveable over the long-term.  
Mike Day, Co-Founder of Roberts Day, said with Sydney suffering from the overlapping crises of health and affordability, a key step to transform Sydney is creating walkable places.
"Walkable places offer people safety, comfort and delight," he said.
"Benefits of a walkable Sydney include creating a true 30 minute city to address the fact people of Western Sydney are three times more likely to suffer from diabetes than their inner-city counterparts.
“The emerging equity issue Sydney needs to address is people’s proximity to walkable places.
"By giving priority to walkable places as the new missing middle of Sydney’s density done well discussion, the added value of improved health, happiness and productivity, means everyone benefits.
“The obesity statistics present a significant challenge facing the liveability of Australian cities. 
“Our research shows us that if we work with government and other key stakeholders to fast-track schools, parks, childcare, cafés and shops, we can have a profound impact on the liveability of our communities and the health of residents.
"The social imperatives for doing so is compelling and is supported by equally clear commercial ones.
“The Federal Government’s Smart Cities Plan, as well as State planning policies including the recently-released Greater Sydney Commission District Plans, reflect the importance of liveability measures.
“The unique perspective offered by our Liveability Index is the voices of more than 2,500 residents – from the ground up, sharing their experiences of what makes a community work well.”
The Stockland Liveability Index provides three key lessons for cities:
1.     Provide opportunities for community interaction:
<ul>
<li>Parks, cafés, walkways, schools, children’s playgrounds, cycleways</li>
<li>Build in technology, to connect communities from the outset and enhance customer experience</li>
<li>Create links with the natural environment</li>
<li>Community programs, like parents’ groups and exercise classes, for community connection and physical exercise.</li>
</ul>
2.     Introduce well-designed neighbourhoods:
<ul>
<li>Smart design, with places that are walkable</li>
<li>Carefully plan all new homes to be close to childcare, schools, retail, parks and playgrounds</li>
<li>Access to employment, transport and health facilities.</li>
</ul>
3.     Deliver infrastructure early, where possible:
<ul>
<li>Fast tracking key infrastructure such as playgrounds, schools, public transport, parks,</li>
<li>outdoor exercise stations</li>
<li>Proven to generate high levels of resident satisfaction and community pride.</li>
</ul>
A recording of the discussion will be available at <a href="https://www.sydney.org.au" target="_blank">www.sydney.org.au</a>.
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Urban experts reveal key ingredients for successful cities

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Just under half of Aussies polled for a recent survey (48 percent) believe the property dream is still alive and well according to the CommBank Connected Future Report.
The report, based on the response of more than one million people, asked Australians about how they perceive their future, the property market, adapting to a changing workforce, and life for younger generations.
Just over half of the respondents (52 percent) said the Australian dream is being redefined.
Demographer and futurist Claire Madden authored the CommBank Connected Future Report.
She said a remarkable insight from the CommBank ATM data overall is the resilience and tenacity Aussies have in the face of economic uncertainty.
“As a lead example, while the Australian property dream looks markedly different in 2017, the majority of Australians either fully own or are paying off their home," she said.
“This has remained constant over the past five decades, so despite uncertainty, the Australian dream has clearly lived through time.
"The research shows while Millennials (Gen Y) are delaying traditional life markers like getting married or having a child, the average age of a first homebuyer has remained relatively constant over the last two decades, sitting at around 32 years of age.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%2011.09.10%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%2011.09.10%20AM.png" alt="">
 
"The Australian ‘dream home’ is no longer a weatherboard standalone house. It is an architecturally designed product, as the quality of dwellings has risen over time.
"Whilst 74 per cent of those living in cities and 81 per cent of those outside capital cities currently live in a stand alone house, 48 per cent of new residential approvals over the past year have been for medium or high density housing.
"CommBank data reveals 68 percent of first home buyers purchased a house in the last year, 16 percent desire to build their architectural dream home after purchasing vacant land, and 15 percent purchased an apartment or townhouse.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.22.26%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.22.26%20PM.png" alt="">
"The data relating to the Australian property dream reveals that the state you live in impacts your state of optimism.
"The least optimistic were people residing in New South Wales (53 percent) and Victoria (54 percent), and this was significantly high with younger generations (57 percent in both states).
"Those in Queensland (51 percent), South Australia (53 percent), Western Australia (54 percent) and the Northern Territory (57 percent) believe the dream is more attainable.
"Gen Y have prioritised global travel, lifestyle experiences, stayed longer in formal education and attained the name KIPPERS (Kids in Parents’ Pockets Eroding Retirement Savings) for staying in the family home longer.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.24.11%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/06/14/Screen%20Shot%202017-06-14%20at%201.24.11%20PM.png" alt="">
"Yet now they are in their prime career building and family forming years, they, like their predecessors, are finding a way to overcome the obstacles, respond to new realities, and see the (re)defined dream come alive.
"Even though the dream has taken a different form, the data reveals property ownership remains high on the aspirational list (average home buying age remains consistent at 32).
"With almost 3 in 10 Australians (29 percent) born overseas, and a quarter (27 percent) of the population’s labour force born overseas, immigration has significantly contributed to Australia’s workforce and economy.
"In the midst of this diversity, CommBank data reveals that almost half of Aussies (49 percent) believe that our society truly embraces everyone."
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Survey reveals under half of people believe that the property dream is still alive

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Respondents to a new survey from the Australian Property Institute believe residential property in Sydney and Melbourne is reaching the top of the property cycle and markets will remain in a similar position in Melbourne for a further 12 months and in Sydney for another two years.
The majority of respondents believe that interest rates will remain at similar levels for the next year, and be higher in 3 years. They also believe that foreign investment will be at similar levels for the six months, but uncertain of levels over the longer term.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-1.jpg" alt="">
Mike Zissler, API chief executive officer, said a common view among respondents is that overall, demand is outperforming supply, ensuring residential markets remain strong.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-2.jpg" alt="">
“Ninety-two per cent of survey respondents see low interest rates as a significant to very significant driver of Sydney residential property demand and prices," he said.
"The second most significant driver is supply, with 91 percent seeing it as significant to very significant.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-3.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-3.jpg" alt="">
“In Melbourne, the two main drivers for residential property demand and prices are low interest rates (with 95 percent of respondents seeing them as a significant to very significant driver) and foreign investment (with 91 per cent of respondents seeing it as a significant to very significant driver).
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-4.jpg" alt="">
“Brisbane is similar to the Sydney market, with 95 percent of respondents seeing low interest rates as significant or very significant, and therefore the main driver of demand and prices in the city. Supply is considered the second most significant driver, with 80 per cent seeing it as significant to very significant.
“We also asked respondents about the drivers of demand in Perth. Low interest rates are again considered the most significant driver of demand and prices, however this view is not as strong as in the other cities, with 80 per cent seeing it as a significant or very significant driver.
“Results were split for Sydney, with 58 percent of respondents indicating residential property is in or is entering a bubble, while 42 percent indicate it is not in a bubble.
“Respondents were fairly certain of a bubble in the Melbourne market, with 86 percent of respondents indicating residential property is in or is entering a bubble, while 14 percent believe it is not in a bubble.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-6.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-6.jpg" alt="">
“For Brisbane, 42 percent of respondents indicate that residential property is not in a bubble, 52 percent indicate that it is in or is entering a bubble and 5 per cent are unsure.
<a href="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-7.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/12/07/Chart-7.jpg" alt="">
"For Perth, respondents are more certain, with 90 percent indicating residential property is not in a bubble."
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Prices staying at top of property cycle: Australian Property Institute's property directions survey 

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Commercial property professionals continue to be confident over the next two years and sentiment is improving, the NAB Commercial Property Survey for Q3 shows.
The NAB Commercial Property Index rose 11 points to +16, with sentiment higher across the four surveyed sectors of Office, Retail, Industrial and CBD Hotels.
Market sentiment remained strongest in NSW, which rose 17 points over the quarter to +55 and Victoria (up 2 to +30), consistent with the stronger business conditions also exhibited in those states.
<a href="/images/2016/11/09/Commercial%20property%20index.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/09/Commercial%20property%20index.jpg" alt="">
In contrast, sentiment fell a further 6 points in Western Australia to -54.
“Stronger sentiment this quarter came despite moderations in business conditions over the quarter, as recorded by the NAB Quarterly Business Survey,” NAB senior economist Rob de Iure said.
“While sentiment has improved, gains are narrowly based on the eastern seaboard with NSW and Victoria outperforming the rest of the country in sentiment, capital growth and income returns.
“Looking forward, confidence levels from respondents were also high, with gains in the CBD Hotels, Office and Industrial sectors offsetting lower confidence in Retail – likely driven by weaker retail business conditions and subdued consumer spending.”
The Q3 Survey shows nearly two-thirds of all developers looking to start projects were looking at the residential sector, however only 34% planned to start work in the next six months – dropping to 18% in 18 months’ time.
<a href="/images/2016/11/09/Property%20table%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/11/09/Property%20table%201.jpg" alt="">
“Survey respondents may be telling us that the current housing construction cycle, particularly for high density properties, may slow in the coming two years,” Mr de Iure said.
“And while the number of property developers planning to source more capital to fund their development was broadly unchanged quarter-on-quarter, nearly half (48%) were unsure of their intentions over the next 12 months – up from 31% in the second quarter.”
In addition, the Survey found more property developers are using land-banked stock to start new work, which may reflect the high levels of building activity in the residential sectors and land shortages in some cities.
Property professionals on balance also report that it is getting harder to obtain debt and equity for their businesses – with professionals expecting access to funding to remain difficult for the next 6-12 months.
About 240 property professionals participated in the Q3 Survey.
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