A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Tasmania

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In the week that it launched No.17 William Street zoomed to the top of the realestate.com.au charts as the most viewed home in Tasmania.
Then over the past three weeks the circa 1900 cottage has piled up near 16,000 views on the property site — and counting. That’s a figure heading toward Tassie’s Top 10 most viewed of the year.
Property representative Brad Stephens from Devine Property said he had shown over 100 groups through the property and received over 50 email inquiries.
“It is such a unique little property … but the response, that has blown me away,” Brad said.
“And the consensus among my colleagues is that it’s among the worst they’ve seen. It fits that ‘worst house, best street’ moniker."
“Interestingly, the majority of interest we’ve had is from people who want to restore what is there. They want to rebuild it from the inside out and restore it to its former glory."
<div class="sc-pZzYQ sc-oTcDH gPJTIP"><img class="sc-qYHHM dyhwPj size-full wp-image-609617" src="https://www.realestate.com.au/blog/images/1280x720-fit,progressive/2020/08/27100901/capi_72e7cb2de240e8406d868844054a690c_2309f6b1e92f5f3fc6203f583a4ca5f6.jpeg" alt="" width="884" height="497" data-capiid="2309f6b1e92f5f3fc6203f583a4ca5f6"></div>
The 77sq m weatherboard cottage offers a two-bedroom single-bathroom floorplan.
There is a combined living and dining space, a kitchen and a separate outhouse.
Mr Stephens said while the property was not listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Register, he recommends prospective purchasers make their own inquiries prior to bidding at auction.
No.17 William Street, West Hobart is heading to auction on Saturday August 29 at noon.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Why a West Hobart dump is a top viewed Tasmanian listing in 2020

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Following the COVID-19 restrictions in place from early March 2020, local real estate agents working in the northern suburbs of Tasmania have reported that general sales activity and enquiry were quiet in early March and recovered in early May, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at how a budget of $700,000 could be invested in property markets across the nation. 
The report notes with some certainty, COVID-19 seems to have had limited impact on the property market in the northern suburbs. 
"Recent sales evidence indicates that the property market was relatively stable in the second quarter of 2020 with very slight signs of negative activity. 
"The days on market have remained steady, with average selling periods of between two and three weeks," the valuation firm said. 
 The rental market across the northern suburbs for the March quarter was also reflective of a relatively stable environment.
 A three-bedroom home’s weekly rent was from $350 to $480 depending on the location of the property.
A majority of properties in the northern suburbs do not generally exceed $700,000, the report noted.
'At this level of value, you could expect to purchase a range of different types of properties:
<ul>
<li>A large 200 square metre plus multi-storey dwelling with a high quality fit-out, located within a sought–after locale such as West Moonah, Rosetta, Berridale or Claremont Estate with either elevated river views or close proximity to the river, shopping and recreation facilities.</li>
<li>Good quality rural lifestyle dwelling on over one acre of land;</li>
<li>A heritage-listed property with well-maintained heritage features;</li>
<li>In terms of investors within this market, $700,000 will most likely allow you to purchase two newly constructed units in an outer suburb location (Brighton, for example) achieving yields of over seven per cent plus a tax saving benefit.</li>
</ul>
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<div class="column">A four bedroom house in West Moonah has recently been sold for $430,000.</div>
<div class="column"> </div>
<div class="column">The home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-west+moonah-133055850" target="_blank">1/150 Springfield Avenue </a>(pictured below) comes with open plan living, four bedrooms, and rumpus or game room.</div>
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<div class="column">It is just a short 5-minute drive from all the amenities that Moonah has to offer. </div>
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<div class="column"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/20/west%20moonah.jpg" alt=""></div>
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<div class="column">A current listing is a three bedroom home in Tarleton priced over $495,000.</div>
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<div class="column">Set on over 4ha, the updated home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi-rural-tas-tarleton-134021054" target="_blank">130 Tarleton Road </a>(pictured below).</div>
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<div class="column">It features carpeted bedrooms, open dining and kitchen area, undercover entertaining area and double garage. </div>
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<div class="column">Generally, properties under $600,000 are selling within short time frames throughout the greater Hobart locality, the report said. </div>
<div class="column"> </div>
<div class="column">The market for properties over the $1 million dollar mark appears to have slowed given the lack of interstate investors.</div>
<div class="column"> </div>
<div class="column">"Once the borders open, allowing interstate investors to become active in the market once again, it is believed that this market will improve accordingly," the valuation firm said. </div>
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What a lazy $700,000 can buy in Tasmania: HTW residential 

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Tasmania has not seen wide scale larger renovations or extensions, according to the June Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests that in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. 
This month's HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"At the time of writing there are only 11 active Covid-19 infections in the state, four of those being hospitalised.
"Restrictions are slowly easing. Real estate agents can hold socially-distanced open homes and auctions," the valuation firm said. 
However it is going to be a while before the island state is open to tourists from the mainland again with the premier saying he will announce in July when we may expect the border restrictions to ease.
"Onto renovations and our ‘big green’ hardware stores have been the go-to during the last few months," the valuation firm said. 
"Like elsewhere in the country many Taswegians have been working from home (or being out of work at home) and thus have the opportunity to tend to those odd jobs. However we have not seen wide scale larger renovations/extensions." 
Builders have reported an increase in the smaller jobs but a decrease in quoting opportunities for those larger capital expenditure projects, the report noted. 
"Interestingly some Airbnb operators are taking this opportunity to undertake maintenance and upgrading works while their properties are having down time. 
"Initially we did see a rush of these types of properties into the traditional rental market. This transition has now slowed with owners now choosing to undertake maintenance and wait it out," the valuation firm said. 
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<div class="column">
"The obvious withdrawal of mainland buyers from our market would be expected to open up opportunities for the local buyer and even local first home buyer." 
Headline reports had sales activity down a third in April in some markets. However we have not yet seen any discernible movement in pricing. Nor have there been a rush of first home buyers into the market, the valuation firm said.
"Perhaps the talk that the State Government is going to raise the FHG from the current $20,000 to $40,000 is the incentive this buying segment needs to keep their powder dry for the moment!" 
There is a general feeling with the easing of restrictions that the island with its natural ‘ocean barrier protection’ is well positioned to work its way out of the last few months. Hopefully the state will soon be virus clear, the report noted. 
"This can only enhance our clean/green image to the wider world and potentially encourage further migration from the mainland states and territories.
"Interesting times ahead!" 
A renovated Sandy Bay cottage has recently been sold for $860,000.
The five bedroom, one bathroom home is located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-sandy+bay-133362182" target="_blank">75 Princes Street </a>(pictured below).
It features well-designed kitchen/living/dining area, French doors, patio and garden. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/6/sandy%20bay%201.jpg" alt="">
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A new listing is a fully renovated period weatherboard home <img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/7963b078-e2d5-4b52-a300-307aa98ce7e0" alt="page39image3795024" width="0.500000" height="0.500000">in Moonah priced at over $545,000.</div>
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<div class="section">The three bedroom, one bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-moonah-133923330" target="_blank">28 Bayswater Road</a> (pictured below).</div>
<div class="section"> </div>
<div class="section">It comes with open plan kitchen, living and dining area, additional workshop and expansive paved area for outdoor entertaining. </div>
<div class="section"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/7/6/moonah.jpg" alt=""></div>
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Tasmania sees increasing Airbnb upgrading works: HTW residential 

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The lowest fixed rate home loan in Australian history is being offered by Tasmanian bank Bank of Us.
They're offering 1.99 per cent fixed for one to three years, for owner-occupiers paying principal and interest repayments with a deposit of 10 per cent or more.
The catch however is it is exclusive to residents of Tasmania.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/30/Bank%20of%20Us.jpg" alt="">
Sally Tindall, research director at RateCity.com.au, said it was the start of a new era for home loans.
“From tomorrow, Tasmanians who live in their own home can apply for a mortgage rate that starts with a one,” she said.
“This is game on for homeowners looking to fix. We expect more low-cost lenders to follow suit with rates under 2 per cent.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/6/30/Lowest%20RateCity%20rates.jpg" alt=""> 
“At this stage, the big four banks are unlikely to chase down the low-cost lenders, but if they start losing customers, they might be forced to cut fixed rates again.
“Even a year ago, nobody expected rates would fall this low. But these are extraordinary times and lenders are responding with extraordinary rates,” Tindall added.
Bank of Us was named Bass &amp; Equitable, and then B&amp;E, before changing its name to Bank of Us in 2017.
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Home loan at 1.99% comes with a catch

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The number of house sales in Tasmania fell by 27 percent in April compared with March, with property prices in Hobart down 14 per cent, according to figures from the state's Real Estate Institute.
<h2 class="zT1nT _4Zpdk SelAj _1t9H3 _2-MxD lxkD- mSYxO age8P" data-component="Heading">House prices were down 2.2 per cent statewide, but by 14 per cent in Hobart, over the same period.</h2>
THE Real Estate Institute of Tasmania (REIT) president Mandy Welling said she was not surprised given the restrictions and challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"These are the least productive figures since July 2013," Ms Welling advised.
The April sales figures showed in Hobart the turnover decline was 37 per cent, Launceston 39 per cent and the north-west 12 per cent.
There was an easing of sales for properties in the $500,000 and above price bracket, but these properties were still selling on average 1.7 per cent above their listed price.
"There were certainly not as many people out there thinking about putting their property on the market and, indeed, buyers out there to purchase."
REIT chief executive officer Mark Berry said the price drop overall was not as significant as predicted.
"House prices haven't really seen the downward effect that the mainland commentators have been reporting that may happen in Melbourne and Sydney," he said.
"The Tasmanian market has held very firm."
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The first case of COVID-19 was confirmed in Tasmania on March 2.
Over the March 2020 quarter Tasmania experienced a total of 1870 house sales, a 1.2 percent decrease State-wide on the previous quarter and 4.9 percent increase over the previous year.
In the March quarter Sandy Bay in the south achieved the highest median sale price at $948,888. 
The median sale price in Sandy Bay was down 9.6 percent on the previous quarter.
Across the State the two most expensive postcodes for the quarter were 7005 and 7004 and the postcodes with the highest turn over of property were 7250 and 7310. 
In addition to this, Sandy Bay was crowned the most expensive suburb with 29 sales, a median sale price of $948,888 and an increase in sale price of 21.7 percent over the previous year.
 
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Tasmanian real estate turnover falls 27 percent in April

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Overall Tassie’s housing market remained the star performer nationwide in 2019 with six of the top 10 suburbs all coming from the apple isle, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes many regions achieved above 10 percent growth and much of the state was above five percent.
"So what of 2020?
"Simply due to the strength in the local economy, population growth, near nil vacancy rates in the rental market and ongoing housing shortage, we feel that 2020 will deliver continued growth, a steady market in Hobart and we remain positive with regard to overall pricing," the valuation firm said. 
The outer ring lower socio economic suburbs such as Bridgewater and Gagebrook have recently led the capital growth path. 
"We would expect this to slow a touch as some realism comes back into the market," the valuation firm stated. 
A three bedroom house in Bridgewater (pictured below) has recently been sold for $335,000.
Built in 2015, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-bridgewater-132977278" target="_blank">24 Hurst Street </a>comes with three bedrooms, one bathroom, living and dining area, and kitchen. 
The property last sold for $45,000 in 2014.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/16/bridgewater.jpg" alt="">
Middle and inner ring suburbs continue to experience firm demand conditions and upward pressure on pricing.
"We expect this to be ongoing," the valuation firm stated. 
In the north, Launceston was one of the standouts in 2019 with solid growth through all price segments and most locations, the report noted. 
 Continued expansion of the tourism sector (yes, there is a crane in the sky), the impending commencement of the next stage of the university campus (sod to be turned in January 2022) and a generally buoyant outlook would suggest that 2020 will be no different.
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The north-west coast and west coast regions continue to have their own economic challenges and in some regions, continue to struggle, especially the mining based townships along the west coast. 
"We are expecting Devonport to continue its momentum of 2019. Burnie has no doubt turned the corner with a continuation of improved conditions during 2019. We expect both these major centres to continue upward in 2020," the valuation firm said. 
A Georgian home in Devonport (pictured below) has hit the market with over $849,000 hopes. 
The four bedroom, two bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-devonport-132992210" target="_blank">13 George street</a>. 
Set on a 1,095sqm parcel of land, the home comes with open plan kitchen, dining and living, sitting room, in-ground pool and dual length garage. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/16/devonport.jpg" alt="">
"The areas to watch for this year? Climate change is now one of the main drivers attracting people to migrate to the state.
"Look out for the coastal towns, especially those that offer medical or nearby medical facilities such as St Helens (has medical facilities) &amp; Orford (one hour from Hobart). We are expecting to see the sea change and climate change effect continue, especially from Queensland and Western Australia as buyers seek to relocate to a milder climate. 
"Cashing in the interstate family home, buying a very nice holding on the Tassie coast and having money left over in the bank to play with - what more could you want?" the valuation firm said. 
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Tasmania expected to see a steady property market in 2020: HTW residential 

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A nineteenth century heritage-listed property in Taroona has sold.
The historic Tasmanian house, known as Hillgrove, is built on a 4.8 hectares, and features uninterrupted views over the Derwent Estuary and Storm Bay.
It has five bedrooms, three bathrooms, formal living areas, a library, five fireplaces, and large gardens.
Built in the 1860's, the home is listed on the Tasmanian Heritage Council and National Trust of Australia.
It previously traded in 2014, when it fetched $1.058 million.
Gayle Walker, from Sotheby's International Realty Greater Hobart, marketed the property. It was asking $1.4 million this time last year.
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Taroona's Hillgrove property finds buyer

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EXPERT OBSERVER
While houses in Tasmania have enjoyed exceptional price growth in recent years, there has been a marked drop in this increase which is highly likely to continue.
According to the latest RiskWise Property Research Risks &amp; Opportunities Report, and as projected in previous reports, the Tasmanian market has been experiencing decelerated price growth over the past year.
One of the key reasons for the deceleration was that the state remained less affordable than five of the states and territories (in price-to-income ratio) making the market less attractive to investors and owner-occupiers.
Other factors include the economic growth of Tasmania, which is ranked fifth in Australia, having the lowest median weekly wage and low annual wage growth of 2.3 per cent.
As house prices continue to rise, they are becoming less affordable due to the low median household income and less affordability means less demand, which affects price growth.
Houses in the southern state had enjoyed exceptional capital growth in recent years due to low supply, affordability, lack of attractive investment destinations at the time, i.e. the Sydney and Melbourne markets, a tighter rental market and strong rental returns.
However, while houses in Tasmania are expected to deliver positive capital growth in the short term, the market has been experiencing decelerated price growth and we expect this to continue in 2020 with some areas likely to deliver very low or negative capital growth.
It should also be noted that the recovery of the Melbourne market, with its strong fundamentals and affordability in a number of areas, such as the Western suburbs and Geelong, are providing more attractive investment opportunities than Tasmania, especially Hobart which has become less affordable.
CoreLogic figures show the annual price growth for houses in Hobart is 3 per cent compared to 9.7 per cent last year.
However, houses in Tasmania carried a low-medium risk level as approximately 86 per cent were owner-occupied.
In addition, houses in high-demand areas, particularly affordable houses, still enjoy strong demand and present low risk.
Furthermore, unlike some other states, lending restrictions have had a relatively modest impact.
He said while units had also delivered strong growth, they carried a higher level of risk due to the relatively high number in the pipeline compared to population growth.
The relatively high proportion of units that are investment properties also increases the risk associated with such properties, particularly with the improved attractiveness of the Melbourne market.
Also, there are a number of risk factors that may have a negative impact on units in the medium to long term. For example, off-the-plan units carry a significantly higher level of risk.
Furthermore, the unit-to-house price ratio in Tasmania is high. Our research shows that, statistically, if the unit-to-house ratio exceeds 65 per cent it makes houses a much better investment option for buyers with significantly higher capital growth.
Conversely, if it falls below 45 per cent, units are preferred. In Greater Hobart, the median unit price is $378,846, while the median house price is $492,465, placing the unit-to-house ratio at 77 per cent, which is considered high and this means there is certainly a higher risk for units.
DORON PELEG is the CEO at Riskwise
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Tasmanian housing market continues to slow: Riskwise's Doron Peleg

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Tasmania continues to lead the country in many property indicators, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes that in comparison to some of the larger mainland markets, the premium price segment to some extent remains ‘affordable’.
The highest ever residential sale was in 2011 for in excess of $8 million.
To date the highest sale of 2019 has been for $3.7 million being a riverfront holding positioned between Wrest Point and the Royal Hobart Yacht Club at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-sandy+bay-130594658" target="_blank">358 Sandy Bay Road, Hobart</a>.
It comprises a dual level holding with five-bedrooms, three-bathrooms and a double carport. 
"As would be expected its fully secured with an electronic gate and features its own jetty," the valuation firm said. 
<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/2019/12/4/sandy%20bay.jpg" alt="">
The talk of the town however is the construction of a family residence at Tinderbox, just south of Blackmans Bay.
CoreLogic have reported a construction cost of $17 million on realestate.com. Records show the land was purchased for just over $3 million.
"Comprising a riverfront holding over dual levels with a floor area in excess of 1200 square metres of living. Anyone for a small hotel?" the valuation firm said. 
The HTW report notes up north in Launceston a sale was settled at the start of the year for $3.25 million.
This was located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-launceston-129370374" target="_blank">1 Brisbane Street </a>(pictured below) virtually within the CBD and known as Glenfruin.
<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/2019/12/4/launceston.jpg" alt="">
Promoted as a historic Italianate style home it is positioned overlooking City Park on a 1482 square metre lot.
The house is built over three levels, and is a fully renovated 1880s home with four-to-five bedrooms.
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Tasmania's premium price segment remains 'affordable' compared to larger mainland markets: HTW residential 

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The days of residential yields returning towards 10% have well and truly passed thanks to the current boom, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at rental yields across the nation.
"So, what can your investment dollar buy?
"Currently, inner-city Hobart has a unit at 1 Collins Street (pictured below) for sale at $850,000," the valuation firm said. 
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Rented at $775 per week this reflects a 4.74% return.
Or perhaps for the budget conscious a serviced apartment style motel room at 156 Bathurst Street (pictured below) is being marketed with a 6% return.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/4/hobart%202.jpg" alt="">
Further from the city in Glenorchy, a two-bedroom, one-bathroom unit with carport in Lucia Court is offering 6.1%.
For the institutional buyer, there has been a sale of an eleven unit complex in Kingston for $2.75 million being eight two-bedroom, one-bathroom and three three-bedroom, two-bathroom units returning 5.63%.
"Up north in Launceston similar yields are available," the valuation firm said. 
Looking at the inner city, a walk-up two-bedroom unit at 43-47 Elizabeth Street (pictured below) rented at $350 per week is currently being marketed at $349,000 reflecting a 5.21% return.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/11/4/launceston%201.jpeg" alt="">
Or for that budget buyer again how about a 36 square metre motel bedsit for $158,000 with a (net) return of towards 7%.
"In Parklands Parade, Newnham you can secure a two-bedroom, one-bathroom 1990s unit with carport for $189,000 returning 6.9%," the valuation firm continued. 
"And the institutional buyer? There has been a sale of eight new strata titled units in Hortus Place, Newnham for $2.25 million, all two-bedroom, one-bathroom with floor plates between 91 and 98 square metres." 
The sale reflected an adopted yield of 5.55%.
On the north-west coast, this month saw the sale of two new units in Nairana Place, Shorewell Park, Burnir for $550,000, comprising a two-bedroom and a three-bedroom, both one-bathroom with garage.
The sale showed an adopted yield of 5.48%.
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