<p>Following the completion of its debut Palm Beach apartment development EVA on Tenth, local Gold Coast developer Chippendale Group has launched its latest project in the in demand area.</p>

<p>Chippendale Group, led by fifth-generation Palm Beach local Daniel Chippendale, has kicked off sales at&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elise-palm-beach-3-twenty-fifth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1775884443343000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2GyxnGQKU2XXwTzQ8_VHgi" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elise-palm-beach-3-twenty-fifth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221" target="_blank">ELISE</a>, 68 coastal-infused apartments just 40 metres from the sand on Twenty Fifth Avenue.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150992 project_image_fid=366023]</p>

<p>Construction is already well underway, a signal of confidence to buyers, following the demolition of the two-storey walk-up and 1990s built house that sat on two sites that have been amalgamated to create a prime corner block.</p>

<p>There are a mix of two- and three-bedroom apartments on offer, starting from $1.4 million.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150992 project_image_fid=366024]</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, Elise responds to its coastal setting through a horizontal architectural form with recessed glazing and layered landscaping. The design aims to balance light, shade and sea breezes while creating a defined presence along the streetscape.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Residences have been planned with an emphasis on outdoor living suited to the Gold Coast climate, including large balconies designed as usable outdoor rooms. Interiors will feature a selection of European appliances and natural materials, including New Zealand wool carpets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=150992 project_image_fid=366033]</p>

<p>Resident amenities are centred around a wellness-focused ground-level precinct. There will be private access to a heated swimming pool, sauna, cold plunge and gym, alongside a residents’ lounge with dining and entertaining space.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elise-palm-beach-3-twenty-fifth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">ELISE</a> is located towards the northern end of Palm Beach, which puts it just a short walk to Tallebudgera and Currumbin Creeks. At the end of the street is the newly extended Oceanway, a 36-kilometre pathway that runs up and down the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>Chippendale is targeting a late 2027 completion date for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elise-palm-beach-3-twenty-fifth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">ELISE</a>.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150992]</p>


Joel Robinson

Chippendale Group launches Elise, 40 metres from the Palm Beach sand

<p style="text-align:left; margin-top:16px; margin-bottom:16px">Sydney developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/31-41-o-hara-street-marrickville-nsw-2204">Third.i</a>&nbsp;has announced a new transport-oriented development in one of Sydney Inner West’s most sought-after metropolitan locations, delivering much needed housing within steps of world-class public transport and vibrant village life.</p>

<p>Located at&nbsp;31-41 O’Hara St,&nbsp;Marrickville, the proposed mixed-use development will include around 300 apartments, with up to 17 per cent dedicated to affordable housing, reinforcing Third.i’s commitment to creating inclusive, well-connected communities that support a diverse mix of residents who keep Sydney’s neighbourhoods thriving.</p>

<p>Located just 100 metres from the new Metro station, the development places residents within minutes of the CBD while offering seamless access to the Inner West’s cafés, retail, and local services. Anchored within a thriving local centre, the project supports everyday living without reliance on cars, while also delivering new public open space for the local community, including a new park and landscaped green areas, alongside high-quality private resident amenities.</p>

<p>Florian Caillon, Head of Acquisitions for Third.i Group, said the project builds on the company’s ongoing work alongside the NSW Government to deliver housing and amenity alongside major transport infrastructure. Amenity includes an activated pedestrianise retail strip that connects Illawarra Road down to the pocket park, and health and wellness facilities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Delivering housing of this scale within an established village is a rare opportunity, and few companies have achieved residential outcomes of this size at a village centre," Caillon said.</p>

<p>"We are excited to set a new standard for urban living in the heart of Marrickville,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The inclusion of affordable housing has been welcomed by frontline workers.</p>

<p>“We are supportive of developments which will allow essential workers like nurses, midwives and carers, the opportunity to live in the communities they care for," said&nbsp;Michael Whaites, General Secretary of the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association..</p>

<p>“Many healthcare workers tell us they would like to live closer to where they work, but are being priced out of the market, forcing them to move further away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Dedicated apartments for essential workers will support recruitment and retention in local hospitals and aged care facilities, helping to strengthen our health system.”</p>

<p>The project has been declared State Significant Development (SSD) by the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA).</p>


Third.i to deliver 300 apartments in Marrickville TOD precinct

<p>A luxury half floor penthouse intended to be retained by Queensland developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/qm-properties">QM Properties</a> has hit the market as the final residence within <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/160-macquarie-160-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">160 Macquarie</a> apartment development, an exclusive enclave of just 33 premium apartments located on St Lucia’s riverfront.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 14-storey building, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia</a>’s first riverfront development to be completed in over a decade, smashed the suburb record in 2024 with a 12th storey, half-floor residence selling for $6.29 million, nearly $1.5 million higher than the previous highest sale of $4.8 million in 2020. &nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=25721 project_image_fid=299769]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Residential Director, Andrew Roubicek sold three apartments within the recently completed development in 2025 and 2026 realising increases in value averaging 65 per cent compared to the original prices of the apartments sold off-the-plan.</p>

<p>Andrew said these sales underscored the unparalleled desirability of 160 Macquarie, located on the riverfront in one of Brisbane’s most sought after suburbs, to the local downsizer market. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“Most of the residents in 160 Macquarie are like-minded western suburbs people, downsizing from large homes and attracted to the design, size and expansive aspects across the river and northeast views towards the Brisbane city skyline," Roubicek said.</p>

<p>“Residents of 160 Macquarie also enjoy exclusive access to a rooftop sanctuary that features a range &nbsp;of lounge and dining areas with uninterrupted panoramic views. The state-of-the-art private pool, nestled beside the Brisbane River, further enhances the luxurious lifestyle on offer."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=25721 project_image_fid=299764]</p>

<p>This demand for high quality, riverside residences has prompted QM Properties to release the final &nbsp;half floor penthouse, previously intended to be retained by the company, which has never been occupied. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The brand-new luxury 246 sqm sub-penthouse, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>,&nbsp;has three bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, a master with walk-in robe including make-up bench and ensuite with freestanding bath, open plan living and dining, built in bar and wine display, three side-by-side carparks, and an entertainers balcony with uninterrupted, never to be built out views of both the Brisbane CBD &amp; Mount Cootha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=25721]</p>


QM Properties have released the final half floor penthouse at 160 Macquarie, St Lucia’s first riverfront development in over a decade  

Final luxury penthouse released following 65% uplift in values at 160 Macquarie, St Lucia

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> may sit just south of Melbourne’s officially designated Bayside suburbs, but this small coastal pocket offers all the hallmarks of its neighbouring areas, at a considerably lower entry point to the property market.</p>

<p data-end="596" data-start="314">Trains, beaches, dog parks and retail, the pillars of any Bayside lifestyle, are all thriving in Parkdale. It was these four factors, combined with a clear undersupply of new apartment developments, that drew boutique Bayside developer Lowe Living to the suburb around five years ago.</p>

<p data-end="704" data-start="598">The group secured a site on Como Parade East, where it launched, and has now almost sold out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kallara-house-parkdale-by-lowe-living-129-137-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Kallara House</a>.</p>

<p data-end="839" data-start="706">Now, Lowe Living has returned to Parkdale, this time with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elanora-place-parkdale-152-como-parade-west-parkdale-vic-3195">Elanora Place</a> on Como Parade West, just a few minutes’ walk from the water.</p>

<p data-end="839" data-start="706">[smartcode_project:default project_id=148731 project_image_fid=364174]</p>

<p data-end="944" data-start="841">Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows, Elanora Place will comprise 40 two- and three-bedroom apartments.</p>

<p data-end="1388" data-start="946">While “large-scale” is a term often overused in project marketing, the residences at Elanora Place genuinely live up to the label. Entry-level two-bedroom apartments, priced from $1.15 million, span nearly 115 sqm. Larger two-bedroom configurations, including ground-floor residences with courtyards, exceed 150 sqm, while three-bedroom homes range from 180 sqm to more than 220 sqm. These are priced between $1.75 million and $1.815 million.</p>

<p data-end="1485" data-start="1390">A select number of residences also feature EV charging stations within private two-car garages.</p>

<p data-end="1485" data-start="1390">[smartcode_project:default project_id=148731 project_image_fid=364176]</p>

<p data-end="1717" data-start="1487">The design of Elanora—translated as “a home by the sea”—draws on Parkdale’s architectural legacy and bayside charm, with careful consideration given to scale, materiality and local character, according to Jackson Clements Burrows.</p>

<p data-end="1958" data-start="1719">Resident amenity has been curated to foster a sense of community, with a rooftop terrace offering sweeping bay views, built-in barbecue areas, and tranquil garden retreats designed to bring neighbours together in a relaxed coastal setting.</p>

<p data-end="2118" data-start="1960">Construction of the low-rise development is already underway, led by Lowe Living’s in-house arm, Lowe Construction, with completion anticipated in early 2027.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148731]</p>


Lowe Living continues Parkdale preference with Elanora Place apartments

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>’ Palm Beach project Liérre has raced to 35 per cent sold within its first two months on the market, as the Queensland builder-developer prepares to start construction in the coming two months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The momentum adds to a strong early response for the Jefferson Lane address, which recently secured development approval for the $165 million beachfront-adjacent scheme.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364569]</p>

<p>Planned for a 1,733 sqm amalgamated site on the beach side of Gold Coast Highway,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> will deliver 58 apartments, three townhouses and eight penthouses, bringing a scaled residential offering to one of the Gold Coast’s most in-demand coastal suburbs. The project is one block back from the beach, a position that has helped shape both its design approach and buyer appeal.</p>

<p>BPG Developments Co-founder Nick Parr said the project reflects the next stage of Palm Beach’s evolution. “<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> reflects the next phase in Palm Beach’s evolution as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after residential markets,” Parr said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our vision was to deliver a project of enduring quality, one that responds to its beachfront location through thoughtful design and functionality.” He said BPG’s integrated builder-developer model gives the team greater control over quality, timelines and outcomes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364572]</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> draws on Palm Beach’s coastal character through what the architect describes as a calm, finely detailed response to the shoreline setting. The palette leans into raw, earthy tones such as blush and rust, paired with travertine finishes, soft curves and organic forms.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Plus Studio Principal Chrisney Formosa said the building was “sculpted from the rhythm of the coast,” with a shell-inspired form and sand-hued facade intended to support Palm Beach’s emergence as a design-led beachfront neighbourhood.</p>

<p>Residents will also have access to a substantial wellness offering, including a gym, sauna, spa, outdoor shower, and an amenities deck with pool, cabanas, sunbeds and landscaping throughout.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364581]</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> has continued to attract attention from both developers and buyers as the southern Gold Coast tightens in supply.</p>

<p>MOTIV Founder Carly Cottam said the suburb was the fourth most searched on the Gold Coast for property, citing its community feel and proximity to beaches and dining. She said Lierre would appeal to buyers seeking a luxury address at a relatively attainable price point, particularly given the rarity of a site just one block back from the beach.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149551 project_image_fid=364576]</p>

<p>For BPG, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">Liérre</a> is also part of a broader period of growth. The approval followed another recent green light for the developer’s $250 million Newstead project, taking its pipeline to around $500 million across Brisbane and the Gold Coast.</p>

<p>Co-founder Glen Williams said Palm Beach embodied the company’s focus on refined design, craftsmanship and long-term value over volume.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149551]</p>


BPG’s Palm Beach project Liérre races to 35 per cent sold as construction commencement nears

Sydney Property

<p>Setting a new benchmark for residential developments in Western Sydney, Auburn Square is the latest development delivered by property developers Tian An.</p>

<p>From its roots as one of Australia&rsquo;s oldest listed property developers, then known as Port Bouvard, Tian An has grown to deliver quality residential projects.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79239]</p>

<p>Auburn Square has been designed for ultimate day-to-day liveability, with its precinct vision largely inspired by the nearby Auburn Botanical Gardens.</p>

<p>Designed by Rothelowman, the development features 2,000sqm of green space, an impressive rooftop garden, outdoor fitness area, film projector and screen and barbeque space.</p>

<p>Each apartment features contemporary design elements, high-end finishes and premium inclusions.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79247]</p>

<p>Situated a three-minute walk from Auburn Central, the tower is located within a vibrant village and is just moments from transport to take you to the Parramatta and Sydney CBDs.</p>

<p>Retail spaces are located along the ground floor level of Northumberland Rd, connecting directly to Auburn Town Centre.</p>

<p>Urban takes a look at three of the featured floorplans available at Auburn Square.</p>

<p><strong>1. One-Bed</strong></p>

<p><img alt="" height="844" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-07-13_at_3.16.41_pm.png" width="1228" /></p>

<p>This one-bedroom floorplan is one of the many configurations available at Auburn Square, delivering one bedroom, one bathroom and a car space.</p>

<p>Boasting an internal area of 50sqm to 63sqm, the homes feature an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, with a choice of light or contrast colour schemes.<br />
[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79242]</p>

<p>SMEG appliances can be found throughout the kitchen and most one-bedroom apartments feature island benches.</p>

<p>Auburn Square&rsquo;s contemporary design also sees feature walls in the kitchen, a balcony and a built-in robe in the bedroom.</p>

<p><strong>2. Two-Bed</strong></p>

<p><img alt="" height="1024" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-07-13_at_3.16.50_pm.png" width="1236" /></p>

<p>The two-bedroom apartment floorplan shown above displays a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment, also featuring a parking space. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Two-bedders boast an internal size between 75sqm and 88sqm, as well as a balcony for outdoor entertaining.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79240]</p>

<p>Residents have the option to include a bathroom in the contemporary residence.</p>

<p>Most two-bedroom apartments include storage rooms, while the master bedroom includes an ensuite and walk-in robe.</p>

<p><strong>3. Three-Bed</strong></p>

<p><img alt="" height="954" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-07-13_at_3.16.57_pm.png" width="1220" /></p>

<p>The family-sized, three-bedroom residence is the largest offering at Auburn Square, set over an internal area of 96sqm to 110sqm.</p>

<p>Each bedroom offers sliding doors to the extensive balcony, providing abundant light throughout the day that opens up the space.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79250]</p>

<p>The apartment featured delivers walk-in robes, an open-plan living and dining area, as well as a generously sized laundry.</p>

<p>The apartment includes storage rooms, parking space and SMEG appliances in the kitchen with the optional upgrade to Westinghouse.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7317]</p>


Urban takes a look at three of the featured floorplans available at Auburn Square

max.kwok_55688

Floorplan focus: The various apartment configurations at Western Sydney’s Auburn Square

<p>With Sydney&#39;s luxury market proving resilient, many buyers are seeing the benefit of investing in a high-end development at affordable prices because downsizing does not mean downgrading.</p>

<p>Whether your children have moved out or you&#39;re wanting to save money, downsizing provides a great option for couples of all ages.</p>

<p>Below are five of the best downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney to help you on your journey towards finding a new home.</p>

<p><strong>1. Bloom Arncliffe</strong><br />
Developer: Wingate<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $699,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6201 project_image_fid=89013]</p>

<p>Offering one, two and three-bedroom apartments across seven state-of-the-art buildings, Bloom is the latest development to hit Arncliffe.</p>

<p>Placed in a prime position between the city and the coast, residents enjoy the benefits of being close to Sydney&rsquo;s southern beaches, as well as the Illawarra line&rsquo;s direct link to the CBD, the Inner West and Bondi.</p>

<p>Designed by EJE Architecture, the home features spacious island benches, walk-in pantries, spacious floorplans, and entertaining space.</p>

<p><strong>2. Auburn Square, Auburn</strong><br />
Developer: Tian An<br />
Two-bedroom apartments from $615,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79239]</p>

<p>Auburn is a hub of connectivity situated in the geographical heart of Sydney, offering the benefits of suburban living, with great transport accessibility to business centres including Parramatta and the CBD.</p>

<p>Auburn Square has been designed for ultimate day-to-day liveability.&nbsp;Its precinct vision is largely inspired by the nearby Auburn Botanical Gardens,&nbsp;aiming&nbsp;to connect residents and foster a community feel.</p>

<p>Designed by Rothelowman, the development features 2,000sqm of green space, an impressive rooftop garden, outdoor fitness area, film projector and screen and barbeque space.</p>

<p><strong>3. Eminence, Zetland</strong><br />
Developer: Meriton<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $745,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=21882 project_image_fid=71328]</p>

<p>Eminence is a trio of boutique buildings commanding four street frontages nestled between the transformational Green Square precinct and the CBD.</p>

<p>As well as 1,840sqm of lush podium gardens, the development by Meriton offers luxurious five-star amenities for year-round resort enjoyment.</p>

<p>Directly across from your home at Eminence, Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre features beach-inspired pools, open-air training facilities, boardwalks and playgrounds.</p>

<p><strong>4. Arcadia, North Lane Cove</strong><br />
Developer: Dasco Australia<br />
Price for two-bedroom apartments available upon request</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=6912 project_image_fid=153916]</p>

<p>Close by Chatswood&rsquo;s commercial, entertainment and dining offerings and the thriving Lane Cove Village, Arcadia is a sophisticated and elegant residence on Sydney&rsquo;s Lower North Shore.</p>

<p>Boasting rooftop gardens, a gym, barbeque areas and a dedicated workspace lounge, the development boasts great amenities for downsizers and first-home buyers alike.</p>

<p>Designed by PSEC Project Services, Arcadia residences include floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors and abundant natural light, while some residences boast dual terraces and balcony access from the master bedroom.</p>

<p><strong>5. Destination, Macquarie Park</strong><br />
Developer: Meriton<br />
One-bedroom apartments from $600,000</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=8669 project_image_fid=71739]</p>

<p>Located within NSW&rsquo;s second-largest business district, Destination offers lots of opportunities to downsizers hoping to take advantage of Macquarie Park&rsquo;s competitive advantages.</p>

<p>Delivered by Meriton and designed by DKO Architecture, Destination offers serene garden terraces, timeless design and views from every angle.</p>

<p>The development provides large apartment layouts with house-like proportions, tailored materials and classic detailing.</p>


A look at five downsizer apartments on the market in Sydney to help you on your journey towards finding a new home

Downsizing does not mean downgrading: Sydney’s best downsizer apartments on the market today

<html><body>
<p>There is little doubt the Sydney auction market has started out a lot better in February, than it finished off last December.</p>
<p>At this stage, four weeks in, the positivity has been more evident from the auction clearance rate being on the rise, than prices making any advances.</p>
<p>February typically suffers none of the inbuilt end of year fatigue. Saturday's preliminary clearance sat at over 70 percent.</p>
<p>You never know, but prices could spurt again, especially if our fresh stock levels stay low after the upcoming early Easter break, and the banks begin to ease up on their lending.</p>
<p>It would not be a second wind for prices, because we've already seen that many times, just when the market seemed destined to head backwards.</p>
<p>Sydney is highly resilient when it comes to property price momentum, often catching forecasters out of step.</p>
<p>I was thinking of the contributing mix, intrinsic and not so, when I popped a few questions to Harry Dent, one of the world’s most controversial economic futurists.</p>
<p>He is currently touring Australia. Last time he toured in 2014, Dent's worst case scenario was for a post-China bubble burst impacting on Sydney with property prices possibly set to collapse by as much as 60 percent.</p>
<p>His controversial forecasts were labelled as scaremongering by many commentators including Chris Joye.</p>
<p>Dent's earlier 2011 crash forecast also saw the founder of wealth manager Yellow Brick Road Mark Bouris counter the claims. </p>
<p>In 2011 on David Koch’s Sunrise program, Dent urged viewers to sell their homes before the 50 percent crash in prices arrived at their doorsteps after a China crash hits our shores.</p>
<p>He will be pursuing the same message this time around.</p>
<p>I told Dent that dwelling prices in Sydney now sit at around a $895,000 median, up from $610,000 in early 2014.</p>
<p>The median represents a significant 46 percent rise since Dent's last warning, and an 80 percent rise since his 2011 warning.</p>
<p>Pressed by me, Dent admits he was wrong through he sticks to the yet-to-occur outcome, merely adjusting the timing of his dire forecast.</p>
<p>"I was wrong, how about that," he said.</p>
<p>"I'm early."</p>
<p>Australia will burst whenever the China bubble bursts, he says.</p>
<p>Dent warns many won't see it coming, and adds that real estate, unlike the stockmarket, won't have any easy escape route, and its recovery will take much longer.</p>
<p>"This is not a normal bubble," he suggests noting the global real estate bubble had extended well beyond typical lengths.</p>
<p>He argues the global bubble has been caused by central banks printing money, not just low interest rates.</p>
<p>Dent says suggests central banks can't keep printing money for ever.</p>
<p>"What's not different is by every measure, is these are bubbles.</p>
<p>"Chinese real estate is a bubble.</p>
<p>"The Sydney real estate is a bubble." </p>
<p>"Better to get out a little early," he will be telling his 2018 audiences.</p>
<p>This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph</p>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Harry Dent says he was early with his dire Sydney price collapse forecast

<html><body>
<p>EXPERT OBSERVER</p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Media portrays Sydney as a market of universal and relentless decline, but our analysis shows there’s a lot more to the story. While sales activity and prices are down generally, there are many different scenarios playing out across the Greater Sydney Area.</span> </p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">In Hotspotting’s latest quarterly survey of sales activity, we can find only three suburbs where sales activity is trending higher, but there are 90 suburbs with steady, consistent sales and a similar number of plateau markets (where activity has dropped from the peak but remains at solid levels).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">And there are 61 suburbs classified as decline markets and 14 which we regard as danger markets, with the Sydney City, Parramatta, Bayside and Canterbury-Bankstown LGAs heading the list of markets to avoid.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Our analysis of 416 suburban markets in the Greater Sydney Area shows that 77% of them have median prices lower than a year so, while 23% have higher prices. Given the negative sensation about Sydney in mainstream media, many people would be surprised to learn that there are 95 Sydney markets where prices are not falling.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">That includes 36 where median prices have risen by more than 5%, led by the top end of the Sydney market (suburbs with median prices above $2 million). Suburbs with median house prices above $2 million have recorded trend-defying growth, including Bellevue Hill (up 17%), Vaucluse (15%), Collaroy (22%), Palm Beach (17%), Artarmon (28%), Abbotsford (16%), Darling Point (12%) and Neutral Bay (17%), among others.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">In another interesting trend that defies the general media rhetoric, there are 44 suburbs where the median house price is down but the media apartment price is up. This reflects the reality that many of the Sydney markets where prices have continued to grow against the overall trend are apartment precincts – it’s not happening across the board, but it’s a significant sub-plot in the Sydney market.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Our analysis of the Sydney market shows why the generalisations prevalent in media are so misleading for consumers. This Autumn survey has given ratings to 258 Sydney suburbs: 3 rising, 90 plateau, 90 consistency, 61decline and 14 danger markets. The absence of growth markets and the dominance of struggling ones is the over-riding trend, but there are other stories to be told in the Sydney market.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">The strongest precincts are those that are displaying stubborn consistency of sales activity in the face of the general downturn.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">The Sutherland LGA has two of only three rising suburbs (Jannali and Kirrawee), as well as five plateau and four consistency suburbs. The median price for Jannali units has risen 22% in the past year, while Kirrawee houses are up 3%. It’s notable that median prices for units have risen in many Sutherland suburbs, including Caringbah, Cronulla, Caringbah South, Gymea and Miranda, as well as Jannali.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Other precincts that are showing solidity, with plenty of consistency and plateau suburbs (and no decline or danger markets), including LGAs at the more affordable end of the market like Blacktown, Camden, Penrith, Wollondilly and Campbelltown.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">The Blacktown LGA has one rising, three plateau and 10 consistency suburbs. A characteristic of this market is that median prices are down, but only a few percent in most suburbs – including Plumpton (-2%), Ropes Crossing (-2.3%), Schofields (-1.2%), Marsden Park (-0.4%), Blacktown units (-2%) and Mt Druitt units (-2.8%).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Other solid markets include the LGAs of Inner west, Northern Beaches, North Sydney,<span class="Apple-converted-space">  </span>Woollahra, Randwick and Fairfield.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Inner West suburbs where median prices are higher than a year ago include Annandale (units), Camperdown, Lilyfield, Rozelle (units), Dulwich Hill (units) and Stanmore (units).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Standout price performances in the steady Northern Beaches precinct include Collaroy, Narrabeen, Avalon Beach, Manly (units), Seaforth (units) and Newport (units).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">The weakest precincts of the Sydney market are the LGAs of Parramatta, Sydney City, Bayside and Canterbury-Bankstown.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Parramatta has six suburbs which we classify as danger markets: those where sales activity is sharply down, prices are falling and vacancies are high. These suburbs are Carlingford, Epping, North Parramatta, Parramatta, Wentworth Point and Rosehill. This LGA also has six suburbs ranked as decline markets.</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Median prices are down sharply for North Parramatta houses (20%), Parramatta houses (30%), and Rosehill units (22%).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Sydney City has seven declining suburbs and two danger markets (Haymarket and Waterloo).</span></p>
<p class="p1"><span class="s1">The Canterbury-Bankstown LGA has nine suburbs classified as declining markets, based on a sharp decrease in sales activity over the past 12-18 months: Bankstown, Belmore, Campsie, Canterbury, Croydon Park, Lakemba, Padstow, Panania and Roselands.</span></p>
<p class="p4"><span class="s1">T<em>erry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au</em></span></p>
<p class="p5"><span class="s3"><a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au"><em>ryder@hotspotting.com.au</em></a></span></p>
<p class="p6"><span class="s1"><em>twitter.com/hotspotting</em></span></p>
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What's really going on in the Sydney real estate market? Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

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<p>Quite remarkable that the Lower North Shore property markets are showing no signs of slowing as we edge closer to Christmas.</p>
<p>What is very clear is that all but guarantees another very strong March quarter for 2017, where beyond that would be anyone’s guess.</p>
<p>Whilst many expect that the Reserve Bank of Australia will cut the cash rate in the next six months we are now starting to witness some small Australian lenders increasing their rates which sends a loud signal that we may now be witnessing the end of the low rates. I made a phone call and was advised that ING have the lowest rate presently at 3.84 percent over five years fixed. ME head of home loans, Patrick Nolan, said: “The increases were based on increasing swap rates – up 40 basis points since the end of August – and increasing cost of deposit funding.”</p>
<p>Yes, there will be casualties, more particularly the interest only borrowers. I read a sage quote by a banker on Twitter who said: “If anyone is taking out a 20 – year mortgage and they don’t believe rates will rise, I’d ask them if they should be making this investment. It is an unrealistic proposition,” he said.</p>
<p>What needs to be factored in is that wages rose by 1.9 per cent during the September quarter, which was a record low according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics.</p>
<p>The NSW Government’s property development arm known as the Greater Sydney Commission released this week the first draft for the five – year housing targets by Local Government Area. A total of 23,250 new properties have been approved, with Mosman to build 300 new properties and North Sydney 3,000 and the Northern Beaches an additional 3,400.</p>
<p><a href="/images/2016/11/28/Draft-Districts.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></p>
<p><img src="/images/2016/11/28/Draft-Districts.png" alt=""></p>
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<p>I really find this quite intriguing with present data suggesting that Sydney is now facing an imminent over – supply. NSW is in the process of building 55,000 new apartments with thousands more on the planning desks awaiting approval.</p>
<p>As these apartments are completed this will be a significant lever in reducing rents. When I look at Mosman I observed from CoreLogic that the rental median for a house in Mosman is $1,600.00 per week which is a 16.4 per cent increase over the last five years. The rental median for an apartment is $580.00 per week which is a 16.0 per cent increase over the last five years.</p>
<p>From an economic perspective, this is good news for NSW as it will drive employment as well as productivity. Property investors need to look closely at where their respective investment properties are within the Local Government Areas to ascertain what impact this unprecedented apartment building bonanza will have. One would have to say that in the short – term in the case of Mosman that apartment rents will be coming down. Even more so in North Sydney as they have a massive 3,000 apartments to be built over Mosman’s 300. For the fortunate ones if you own a residential development because it just doubled and trebled in value with the new high density legislation.</p>
<p>What needs to be acknowledged is this is what we call the new market and should not be confused with the established housing market as we are building apartments not houses. Although one point that springs to mind is that investors will be forced to renovate existing apartments if they are going to compete in the market on a rental dollar basis as they will be up against brand new apartments.</p>
<p>The building industry has never seen a better future although little consideration has been given to existing property owners who must contend with greater traffic congestion on our roads. So, if you thought our roads are congested now this week’s announcement will only make the situation worse.</p>
<p>Over time this will see more businesses moving to the suburbs, so a smart town planner must be marinating these development sites with a combination of commercial, retail and residential. Although we all know that this won’t happen as that would be the intelligent outcome to try and ease traffic congestion. Happy to bet now that these new developments will be strictly residential only although I will be more than happy to be wrong with this.</p>
<p>What is happening in Sydney will also see many leave Sydney for quieter and a more stable lifestyle. Whatever the outcome this will have plenty of Sydneyites re – considering their respective futures.</p>
<p><em>ROBERT SIMEON is a director of </em><em><a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" target="_blank" title="RWM" rel="nofollow">Richardson Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay</a> </em><em>and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. </em></p>
<p><em>He has also been writing real estate blog </em><em><a href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" target="_blank" title="Virtual Realty News" rel="nofollow">Virtual Realty News</a> </em><em>since 2000.</em></p>
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An insight into Sydney, now one big building site

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<p class="post-title entry-title">EXPERT OBSERVER</p>
<p class="post-title entry-title">Although the official statistics suggest something slightly different, by my reckoning Sydney's housing market has now entered its third year of downturn.</p>
<div>From a purely psychological point of view, this makes for a testing time for owners, and some may now choose to sell.  </div>
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<div>I'm interested in opportunities, but one of the challenges facing bargain-hunters - at least in the areas that are typically of most interest - is that Sydney's regional unemployment rates are as close to zero as you'll ever see. </div>
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<div>Click <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zQj8VeqmxnU/XHhf4Egzx6I/AAAAAAAAuw4/_7pp0VW2TYcFLt_g8Pi1qPhoEz_JtIb6gCLcBGAs/s640/UE.jpg" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge</div>
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<div>The cash rate setting is also at the lowest ever level, so there's little in the way of mortgage stress to report in inner Sydney, although tighter access to credit and the interest-only mortgage reset could smoke out some portfolio investors. </div>
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<div>And despite record levels of construction in recent years, Sydney doesn't really have a structural oversupply.</div>
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<div>What it does have, though, is a few concentrated gluts of apartment completions and projects hitting the market at the same time, which might give rise to some distressed sales or failed apartment projects. </div>
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<div><strong>Pockets of pain</strong></div>
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<br>My experience in Britain has taught me that sharp price falls are sometimes seen when the economy really turns bad, leading to rising unemployment and forced sellers - hardly a widespread problem facing Sydney at this point in time - and sometimes in the most supply-responsive areas.</div>
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<div>I spent a long time last week looking for bargains in the Sydney market, and in the east I couldn't find anything - I mean, not a single thing - that you might term a bargain, or anything even approximating to a bargain. </div>
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<div>I don't really know enough about Homebush, Parramatta, Blacktown, or Western Sydney to comment in any meaningful way.</div>
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<div>The best examples I could find of significant price declines, at least within 20 kilometres of the City, were mostly in areas zoned for higher-density housing or construction hotspots.</div>
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<div>Epping was a standout example, where scores of apartments were sold off the plan around 2014, and it's not too hard in that area to find examples of units for sale at well below the 'as new' price (although, interestingly, some have been advertised 'almost as new').</div>
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<div>Resale prices in some developments look likely to be up to 15 to 20 per cent lower than the off-the-plan price after an assumption for discounting is factored in.</div>
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<div>A high proportion of such apartments was bought by non-residents, and jt's probably fair to say that total return might not have been absolutely front of mind for some off the plan buyers. </div>
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<div>Locations around Epping and parts of the Hills District have experienced a huge surge in apartment completions in recent years. </div>
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<div>Finding a tenant would be hard work right now for landlords, which might encourage more sellers in 2019.</div>
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<em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</em> </div>
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Where are the Sydney property bargains? Pete Wargent

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<p>Commentary on the future direction of the residential property sector has been diverse.</p>
<p>As Gary Brinkworth, the boss of the Herron Todd White valuation firm recently noted, some observers are expecting a subtle slowdown, while others predict a catastrophic collapse.</p>
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<p>He suggests these views fail to understand the complexity of the Australian residential property sector and that having specialist knowledge at a localised level was key to good decision making.</p>
<p>It adds its can be difficult to keep up as markets adapt to the challenges around COVID-19.</p>
<p>"Some locations have seen monumental disturbance to their usual state of affairs, while others have barely registered a ripple.</p>
<p>"COVID-19 has amplified the diversity of Australia’s resident property markets by location, price point and property type," he added.</p>
<p>Well informed valuers, like well informed estate agents, are well informed on sales activity and price direction.</p>
<p>Brinkworth acknowledged Herron Todd White in Sydney made the decision in early March that all staff would work from home.</p>
<p>The decision was made to ensure that any potential exposure to the virus did not place further risk on other staff and their clients, whose homes they inspect daily.</p>
<p>They changed the way they conduct inspections - with hand sanitiser, face masks and disposable gloves becoming just as importan as their tablets and laser measurers.</p>
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<p>HTW has also developed a contactless inspection tool which allows occupants to take internal photos which feed straight into their valuation system, allowing valuations when a COVID-19 related concern means a property cannot be fully assessed.</p>
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<p>This has allowed mortgage applications to proceed instead of being delayed by weeks or even months until internal access became available.</p>
<p>His team, while noting some statistics may not yet be showing a decline in values across the Sydney market, have seen evidence from selling agents indicates that values are falling, particularly in some areas and for some price sectors, although not necessarily uniformly within these sub-markets.</p>
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<p>The rental market has seen a more immediate impact however, with listings increasing and rents falling, which will certainly have an impact on yields and prices.</p>
<p>Looking around the regions the Northern Beaches has appeared to absorb much of the negative sentiment and restrictions surrounding the pandemic, although "there is a strong chance you will be paying less than you would have three months ago for the same product."</p>
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<p>The slowdown in volumes of transactions in inner Sydney and the Eastern Suburbs made it difficult to ascertain any emerging pattern emerging, but HTW advised in previous downturns, the inner city market segment most vulnerable to volatility is the upsizer price bracket, typically from $2 million to $3 million.</p>
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<p>It also noted properties falling in the Airbnb sector are being impacted, for obvious reasons. </p>
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<p>HTW have been still seeing reasonably strong activity in the west, particularly at the entry level.</p>
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<p>Like the eastern suburbs, the North Shore prestige market is more accustomed to off-market transactions, so recent restrictions around open for inspections and public auctions have not impacted this part of the market as much as lower price points.</p>
<p>Overall HTW conclude the long term outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic for the property market is uncertain.</p>
<p>The Sydney property market is resilient, as seen by the recovery from the 2017 to 2019 downturn. </p>
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<p>However, HTW anticipate a slower return to normal, depending on just where unemployment numbers end up and the extent of a decrease in short term immigration numbers.</p>
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Sydney residential market is resilient, but expect a slower return to normal after COVID-19

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Sydney rents are falling but not everywhere: Nerida Conisbee

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<p>Sydney house values jumped over three per cent over the month of November, growth not seen over a month since the late 1980s.</p>
<p>Dwelling values in the harbour capital grew by 2.7 per cent, led by house values (+3.1 per cent), CoreLogic's November update showed.</p>
<p>Units also saw strong 1.8 per cent gains.</p>
<p>Sydney hadn't seen dwelling values rise that high and that quickly since 1988 when in October they rose 3.5 per cent.</p>
<p>The November 2019 figures topped that of May 2015 when dwelling prices rose 2.6 per cent. </p>
<p>The house value jump takes Sydney's quarterly gains above Melbourne as the two fight it out over who claims top spot in the recovery.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/12/2/CL%20Cap%20Values%20Dec.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Sydney house values have grown seven per cent over the quarter, compared to Melbourne's 6.9 per cent, after the Victorian capitals 2.4 per cent house value gain in November.</p>
<p>Melbourne's dwelling values are still higher than Sydney over the quarter, driven by their stronger recovery in the apartment market (+5.3 per cent compared to Sydney's +4.2 per cent.)</p>
<p>CoreLogic's head of research Tim Lawless said that although housing values are rising across each of the valuation cohorts, the recovery trend is most concentrated within the premium sector of the market.</p>
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<p><span>"This trend is most evident in Sydney and Melbourne where the top quartile of the market is outperforming the broad </span><span>‘middle’ </span><span>of the market and lower quartile," Lawless noted.</span></p>
<p><span>"Values across </span><span>Sydney’s </span><span>top quartile were up 7.4% over the three months ending November, compared with a 3.8% rise across the lower quartile.</span></p>
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<p> </p>
<p><span>"Similarly, in Melbourne, top quartile values were up 8.1% over the same three month period compared with a 4.2% rise across the lower quartile. </span></p>
<p>“The stronger performance across the higher value end of the market can likely be attributed to a combination of values falling more in this sector during the downturn, as well as recent adjustments to serviceability rules which has boosted borrowing capacity. Additionally, the scarcity value of detached homes in many of the blue-chip property markets is another factor supporting strong capital gains.</p>
<p><span>“As </span><span>housing values become less affordable in these high-end markets, demand is likely to ripple outwards to the more affordable </span><span>areas,” </span><span>Lawless said.</span></p>
<p><span>Sydney and Melbourne dwelling values are now positive for the first time in 12 months.</span></p>
<p><span>Sydney houses are up 2.1 per cent, Melbourne's 0.9 per cent.</span></p>
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<p>“The Australian housing market is now five months into an unexpected period of rapid recovery. The question is, how long can such a high pace of capital gains be sustained?”</p>
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<p><span>“Annualising </span><span>the growth rate over the past three months implies the national index is already tracking well above double digit annual growth (+15.3%), while Sydney and Melbourne dwellings are tracking around the mid-twenty percent range for annualised capital gains based on the most recent three month trend."</span></p>
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