Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Joel Robinson

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

Seasoned Victorian apartment developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a> has logged more than $400 million in sales in its luxury apartment project Palmera Residences at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Central Equity Director Karl Kutner said the sales result reflected a combination of location, product quality and delivery certainty with the project already under construction by building powerhouse Multiplex.&nbsp;

"Surpassing $400 million in sales since launch is a significant milestone and an outstanding endorsement of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera Residences</a>,” he said.&nbsp;

"We believe one of the key reasons for this strong result is the confidence purchasers have in knowing the project is under construction with Multiplex. Buyers are increasingly looking for certainty. They want to know that the project they commit to today will be delivered by an experienced team with a proven track record."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365782]

Kutner said it was clear there was still high demand for luxury projects that offered certainty of delivery.&nbsp;

“We are in a market where many residential developments have faced delays due to rising construction costs, labour shortages and financing challenges,” said Kutner.&nbsp;

"But having construction underway has provided our buyers with resounding confidence backed by more than 40 years of development delivery by Central Equity combined with construction by one of Australia's most respected construction companies."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365785]

Central Equity is one of Australia's most experienced privately-owned property developers. Over more than four decades, the company has delivered in excess of 85 residential developments including 10,000 apartments and many thousands of stand alone homes.&nbsp;

Located on Garfield Terrace at Northcliffe, between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, Palmera Residences occupies one of the Gold Coast's most sought after beachside locations. The development has been designed to appeal to owner occupiers seeking premium residences that combine generous living spaces and resort style amenities.&nbsp;

Palmera Residences will feature an exceptional collection of resort style amenities, including two swimming pools: a generously sized family pool with safe shallow zones for relaxed recreation, and a 20 metre lap pool positioned to maximise all day sunlight.&nbsp;

Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to wellness and recreational facilities including a magnesium pool, sauna, yoga studio, expansive fitted gymnasium, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ’s&nbsp;and indoor and outdoor dining areas, together with a dedicated concierge and luxurious hotel inspired entrance foyer.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365767]

A unique feature at Palmera Residences has been designed to enhance the Gold Coast lifestyle which includes both indoor and outdoor gymnasium facilities, together with thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining areas. A corner café has also been incorporated to provide residents with a destination for their everyday needs.&nbsp;

Kutner said buyer demand had been broad based with purchasers attracted from interstate as well as throughout South East Queensland.&nbsp;

"We're seeing strong interest from owner occupiers, lifestyle buyers and people relocating to the Gold Coast. Many purchasers have been searching for a premium beachside residence where quality, design and delivery are equally important."&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Kutner said the sales milestone was an important achievement, but the focus remained firmly on delivering an exceptional development.&nbsp;

"While reaching $400 million in sales is an important milestone, our priority remains delivering a project that exceeds purchaser expectations,” he said.&nbsp;

"Palmera Residences has been designed to become one of the Gold Coast's landmark residential addresses, and we look forward to welcoming our purchasers to their new homes."&nbsp;

There are a limited number of residences remaining in selected configurations with pricing from $2,950,000 to $8,950,000. Palmera Residences is also crowned by expansive penthouses with wrap around views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Construction certainty and strong buyer demand drive major sales result for luxury Gold Coast development

Palmera Residences fly out the door as sales pass $400 million

National property developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has appointed BINAH as its construction partner for Quartet, its new Brisbane apartment development in the undersupplied suburb of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>.

Located just two kilometres from the Brisbane CBD and moments from key 2032 Olympic precincts, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet</a> will deliver 131 one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartments priced from $1 million to $4.2 million, combining elevated design with a wellness-focused lifestyle offering.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Goldfields’ Chief Executive Officer, Lachlan Thompson, said the appointment of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">BINAH</a> marked an important milestone for the project.&nbsp;

“Bringing BINAH on board as our construction partner will allow us to bring our vision for Quartet forward with a team that has a proven track record of delivering high-quality residential projects,” Thompson said.&nbsp;

“We’ve taken a considered approach to progressing the site because we wanted to deliver the whole package. Buyers ultimately back great developers, great projects and great builders, and with Quartet, we’ve made sure all three line up.

“People want certainty, they want to know the project will be built, that the homes will be delivered as promised, and that the developer stands behind the quality of what they create. That’s something Goldfields has built its reputation on over many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

BINAH’s Managing Director, Khalil Hafza, said the company was proud to be partnering with Goldfields to deliver Quartet.&nbsp;

“Quartet is an exciting project to bring to life, particularly given the level of detail in the residences and the extensive rooftop amenity planned for the building,” Mr Hafza said.&nbsp;

“Our focus is on delivering a high-quality build that brings that design vision to life and creates homes residents will enjoy for many years.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

The facilities at Quartet have been feared towards the roof, with a&nbsp;25 metre lap pool, spa, sauna and cold plunge, and a communal barbecue area and alfresco.

Town planning was designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by Melbourne-based architecture firm Cera Stribley.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/cera-stribley">Cera Stribley</a> Co-Founder and Managing Principal, Dom Cerantonio, said the project responds to both its riverside setting and Brisbane’s evolving urban character.&nbsp;

“Quartet has been designed to sit comfortably within its riverside context, offering a refined take on urban living through well-planned, generously proportioned residences that will stand the test of time,” Mr Cerantonio said.&nbsp;

“An emphasis on natural light, natural textures and carefully selected finishes from timber and marble to premium appliances, creates calm, considered interiors designed for comfort and long-term liveability.”&nbsp;

Construction of Quartet will commence in July 2026, with completion anticipated in Q4 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Construction to commence on 131-residence tower designed around wellness-focused living

Goldfields appoints BINAH for Quartet apartments in Milton

The first partnership between national developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> and Adelaide-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> has made a strong start, with the pair securing $21 million in unconditional sales at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-four-four-hutt-adelaide-144-hutt-street-adelaide-sa-5000">One Four Four Hutt</a>&nbsp;on the edge of the Adelaide CBD.

Over a third of apartments have been snapped up in the boutique 44-apartment project on the corner of Hutt Stret and Wakefield Road. Local downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in Adelaide's tightly-held southeast quarter have been the most prominent purchasers.

The DKO-designed, mixed-use development is one of the few new apartment projects in the precinct, an area where new housing supply has remained limited despite continued demand from buyers wanting to stay close to the CBD, Victoria Park and Adelaide's established east-end amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375378]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

"The level of early commitment reflects the confidence local buyers have in the Hutt Street precinct," Dendrinos said.

"Many purchasers are long-term east-end residents who love the area and want to stay connected to the neighbourhood. They recognise the value of a well-designed, well-located development.

"Our partnership with Otello has been central to this success, and the number of unconditional sales at this stage only strengthens our confidence in the South Australian market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151233 project_image_fid=375379]

Otello Director Daniel Harris said the sales result also highlighted the lack of new apartment opportunities within the Hutt Street precinct.

"One Four Four Hutt has clearly resonated with buyers, with strong early sales reflecting both the appeal of the Hutt Street corridor and the lifestyle on offer," Harris said.

"The activated ground-floor retail has also been a key drawcard, with purchasers responding to the vision of a more vibrant and connected streetscape, not just the residences themselves."

One Four Four Hutt will deliver 44 one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of penthouses, above a ground-floor retail offering designed to further activate the Hutt Street precinct.

Construction is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of this year, with completion anticipated in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151233]

Fortis Head of Development SA Arthur Dendrinos said the early sales reflected both the strength of the local owner-occupier market and confidence in the Hutt Street location.

Fortis makes Adelaide debut with Otello as One Four Four Hutt records strong early sales

Tasmania

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A piece of Tasmanian history that pre-dates the historic Port Arthur has been listed for sale.
The publicly-owned Willow Court compound near Hobart sits on 2,900 sqm and comprises a number of buildings and gardens.
It is the centrepiece of the Royal Derwent Hospital which was decommissioned in 2000. It was Australia's longest-operating mental health facility.
LJ Hooker Commercial Hobart agent Mark Devine is listening to expressions of interest until April 20. Devine said the property will need to be renovated, but has high hopes of it achieving national recognition.
<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/2018/2/28/Willow%20Court_4%20copy.jpg" alt="">
“Willow Court was closed in 2000, so while significant refurbishment is needed, the stately facades and internal character will appeal to developers who can recognise a unique opportunity in an emerging tourist market.
“Willow Court has the fundamentals to join Port Arthur, Constitution Dock, MONA and other sites on the growing list of internationally recognised tourism hubs in Tasmania."
The property, expected to be sought after by developers, already has a commercial aspect.
The Argrarian Kitchen opened less than a year ago and has been on the radar of foodies since it was awarded two Hats by the national Good Food Guide.
<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/2018/2/28/agarian.jpg" alt="">
“The Agrarian Kitchen has done a tremendous job in showcasing the quality produce of the Derwent Valley,” Devine said.
“Its success has convinced Council to pursue complementary uses for the site, with particular interests in artisan retail, community and tourism amenities.
  
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Australia's longest running mental health facility listed in Tassie

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GUEST OBSERVER
Housing affordability is a <a href="https://myaccount.news.com.au/sites/themercury/subscribe?sourceCode=TMWEB_WRE170_a&amp;mode=premium&amp;dest=http://www.themercury.com.au/news/tasmania/families-forced-to-live-in-tents-at-hobart-showgrounds/news-story/c297721586a2d2129dba7ec6a3186456?memtype=anonymous" target="_blank">central issue</a> in the Tasmanian election, but <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-05/tasmanian-election-promise-tracker/9373438" target="_blank">regulating Airbnb</a> is not the answer.
Our <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://ecite.utas.edu.au/118352" target="_blank">ongoing research</a> shows that Airbnb is beneficial for the economy, especially in remote areas. In addition to creating accommodation for tourists and providing income for hosts, we found that the recommendations Airbnb hosts provide are incredibly important for small businesses.
<a href="http://www.anglicare.asn.au/docs/default-source/default-document-library/rental-affordability-snapshot-2017.pdf" target="_blank">A 2017 Anglicare report</a> acknowledged that Airbnb might be taking some of the private rental market in Tasmania but it didn’t have any evidence to confirm this.
Our <a href="http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jsbm.12368/full" target="_blank">prior research</a> shows that shops and eateries in regional and rural areas struggle to attract visitors. The word-of-mouth marketing provided by Airbnb hosts is helping to solve this problem.
One of the Airbnb hosts in our study said:
It’s an opportunity for people to get an honest insight into where they’re staying … you might know of a local place that doesn’t have great marketing or money to spend on marketing that you know [guests] wouldn’t have found otherwise.
The Tasmanian government <a href="http://www.premier.tas.gov.au/releases/embracing_the_sharing_economy" target="_blank">deregulated</a> Airbnb in 2017, allowing owners to rent up to four rooms on sharing platforms. Airbnb <a href="https://www.airbnbcitizen.com/tasmania-embraces-home-sharing/">claims</a> to have hosted 169,000 guests in the 12 months to January 2017. This is around 10% of all tourists to Tasmania in that period.
According to a <a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/au/Documents/Economics/deloitte-au-economics-airbnb-economic-effects-in-australia-tasmania-010517.pdf" target="_blank">report by Deloitte Access Economics</a>, a majority of Airbnb listings are located outside traditional hotel districts. Airbnb guests spent an estimated A$27.3 million outside the greater Hobart region in 2015-16.
In <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://ecite.utas.edu.au/118352" target="_blank">our research</a>, we have interviewed hosts, guests and small business operators in Tasmania. Many hosts rent out rooms that would not otherwise be available through long-term rental, which deflates some of the arguments that Airbnb is removing large portions of the supply of rental units.
Our study also confirmed Airbnb guests stayed, and spent money, in areas outside major tourist destinations. This provides opportunities for small local businesses located on the city fringe, as well as in suburban, coastal and rural regions.
Airbnb guests <a href="http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13683500.2013.827159?scroll=top&amp;needAccess=true" target="_blank">want to make deep connections with their destination</a>. They therefore desire alternative sources of information in addition to mainstream tourism marketing. Who better to give an insider’s view than a local?
As a result Airbnb visitors are discovering more local small businesses, in a variety of locations, through word-of-mouth recommendations from Airbnb hosts.
One Airbnb guest in our study said:
<blockquote>
I’m looking for a host to tell me what’s going on, and I would value that above any other source of information really … it makes a big difference what the host says.
</blockquote>
The demographics of the hosts are also important to note. <a href="https://www.airbnbaction.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Airbnb_SeniorHostsEuropeReport_English_9-13-16.pdf" target="_blank">Many Airbnb hosts</a> are single women. Hosting allows them to supplement their incomes and helps them pay rent or mortgages.
“I think it’s a positive way of making life a bit easier for everyone involved… it gives a sense for almost everyone to be an entrepreneur … maybe it’s a bit cheesy, but it empowers people…,” said one female host.
As the number of Airbnb hosts grows across Tasmania, <a href="http://www.themercury.com.au/realestate/bidto-curb-airbnb-surge-as-hobart-city-council-wants-house-limit-at-two-rooms-not-four/news-story/306f73e76b5c4eb2b7e72edd623e7bb7" target="_blank">local councils</a>, residents, <a href="http://www.examiner.com.au/story/4929443/tourism-chief-says-council-motion-is-leading-the-way-on-airbnb-regulation/" target="_blank">tourism and hospitality lobby groups</a> and small accommodation businesses continue to grapple with its impact.
Some on Hobart City Council want <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-06-19/councils-may-consider-taxes-to-deal-with-airbnb-tourists/8624710" target="_blank">to regulate and tax</a> Airbnb to discourage the conversion of rental properties into short-term rentals.
The Tasmanian Greens <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-02-05/tasmanian-election-promise-tracker/9373438" target="_blank">have promised</a> to regulate Airbnb if they are successful in the upcoming election.
But Tasmania is experiencing an <a href="https://www.scribd.com/document/363899848/Accommodation-Supply-Analysis-in-Launceston-Part-1" target="_blank">acute tourist accommodation shortage</a> thanks to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-03-19/tourism-boom-on-track-in-tasmania/8367412" target="_blank">recent improvements in wilderness infrastructure</a> and the “<a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/weekend-australian-magazine/the-mona-effect-towns-want-in-on-david-walshs-museum-act/news-story/f803dae3f027a31eb59e4a461303e345" target="_blank">MONA effect</a>”, among other factors.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/91566/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">Airbnb not only utilises existing infrastructure to meet this demand, our research shows it empowers female hosts and encourages tourists to discover, visit and spend in remote communities.
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/louise-grimmer-212082" target="_blank">Louise Grimmer</a>, Lecturer in Marketing, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888" target="_blank">University of Tasmania</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/maria-massey-441127" target="_blank">Maria Massey</a>, PhD Candidate, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics, ARC Training Centre for Innovative Horticultural Products, School of Land and Food, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888" target="_blank">University of Tasmania</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/oskaras-vorobjovas-pinta-443280" target="_blank">Oskaras Vorobjovas-Pinta</a>, Lecturer in Management, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-tasmania-888" target="_blank">University of Tasmania</a>
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/airbnb-is-blamed-for-tasmanias-housing-affordability-problems-but-its-actually-helping-small-businesses-91566" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Airbnb is blamed for Tasmania's housing affordability problems

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Horizons on the Beach on Tasmania's east coast has been listed for $1,295,000.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-dolphin+sands-125922242" target="_blank"> beachfront reserve property</a> at Dolphin Sands, half way between Hobart and Launceston, sits within the expansive curve of Nine Mile Beach, with a backdrop of Coles Bay and the iconic Hazard, for which the Freycinet Peninsula is famous for.
Master built on two hectares with 85 metres of beachfront, the home has three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a separate media room. 
<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/2018/1/9/horizons2.jpg" alt="">
It is Smart Wired with HPM 1 control wiring, allowing to control of the lighting, music and heaters via a phone or computer.
Kerri's Coastal Realty agents Kerri and Ray Kennewell are marketing the home as Beauty and the Beach. 
 
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Horizons on the Beach listed at $1,295,000

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Dwelling prices in inner city Hobart notched up the strongest price growth in Tasmania over the last 10 years, according to recent CoreLogic data.
Hobart inner’s 10-year growth was 34.2% and its median dwelling price was $585,396, according to CoreLogic’s CoreLogic’s Best performing property markets past 10 years release.
Hobart is a relatively small capital city of about 225,000 persons. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/12/1/Hobart10yrsList.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/12/1/Hobart10yrsList.png" alt="">
CoreLogic’s methodology is based on the best performing property markets at an SA3 level (SA3 represents a regional area serviced by major transport &amp; commercial hub with a population of between 30,000 and 130,000 people).
The list of top 5 regions that recorded the maximum growth in property values were all in Hobart, according to the report.
Last year dwelling values rose 12.3 percent, almost five times higher than Hobart's 2.5 percent average annual rate of capital gain over the decade.
Housing prices are low relative to the mainland capital cities, with its median house value at $424,000, some 54 per cent lower than Sydney and 49 per cent lower than Melbourne. 
CoreLogic's director of research Tim Lawless does not think Hobart is going to remain as strong as it has been.
He does not expect double digit growth during 2018.
Suburbanite property valuer Anna Porter has also warned some forecasts have grossly overestimated Hobart's potential growth.
Porter suggests the fundamentals that support market growth are lacking in the country's southernmost state.
"With no major infrastructure projects planned, migration anticipated to be soft, limited job creation and zero economic stimulus there just aren't the drivers there to create strong market movement," she told Fairfax Media.
A two-bedroom apartment in Hobart (postcode 7000) at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/unit-31-166-bathurst-st-hobart-tas-7000?pid=p4ep-pdp%7Csold-pdp:property-history-cta#history" target="_blank">31/166 Bathurst Street</a> (picture above) recently sold for $565,000, close to the median dwelling price.
It previously changed hands for $440,000 in 2012, CoreLogic shows.
A three-bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/unit-13-38-patrick-st-hobart-tas-7000?pid=p4ep-pdp%7Csold-pdp:property-history-cta#history" target="_blank">13/38 Patrick Street</a> sold in February 2017 for $580,000. It previously sold for $342,000 in 2003.
<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/2017/12/1/HobartInner.jpg" alt="">
Investor purchasing increased in Tasmania in recent times, and according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White (HTW) currently represents a 20% to 25% quota of residential property transactions.
Interstate investor activity has also increased, it noted.
"With Tasmanian investors achieving average gross yields of 5.2% and Hobart out performing all other capital cities it seems the returns on offer in Tasmania are capturing more investor attention," a recent report by HTW advised.
Some property market commentators are predicting that 2017 saw Tasmania turn over its highest volume of residential property sales in more than 10 years if property sales continued at the same pace as they have in the first half of this year.
The north has experienced the greatest percentage increase in residential sales volumes when compared to the same period last year.
"This may be as a result of reported stock shortages and capital growth in the south with buyers looking further a field for investment opportunities," HTW's report noted.
The upgrader or second home buyer price bracket is where buyers are most active within Hobart’s residential property market.
Glenorchy and Claremont are experiencing the greatest amount of entry level sales activity. Both suburbs are north-west of Hobart approximately 10 and 15 kilometres respectively north-west of the city centre.
It noted the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), a popular tourist destination sits within a three kilometre radius of both Glenorchy and Claremont.
Examples of recent sales in Glenorchy include an older style, two bedroom, one bathroom unit in original condition which sold for $225,000 and an older style, dated, three bedroom, one bathroom home with single garage that backs onto Hobart’s show grounds that was purchased for $297,500.
In addition, a three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-glenorchy-126658902" target="_blank">46 Tolosa Street, Glenorchy</a> sold for $333,000.
Another three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-claremont-126929134" target="_blank">1-15 Malabar Road, Claremont</a> sold for $317,500.
<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/2017/11/22/Claremont.jpg" alt=""> 
Sandy Bay, Kingston and Howrah are areas where upgraders or second home buyers are focusing their attention.
Sandy Bay is popular due to its position immediately south of the city with the Derwent River forming its southern border.
Contained within the suburb are the University of Tasmania campus, casino, private and public schools, local shops and recreational facilities. Recent sales within this price bracket in Sandy Bay include an older style, first floor, renovated, waterfront two bedroom, one bathroom unit with uninterrupted water views and single carport which recently sold for $850,000 and a renovated, four bedroom, two bathroom, period terrace that transacted for $985,000.
Within Hobart’s prestige market a modern Sandy Bay home offering five bedrooms, five bathrooms, indoor pool and double garage with views of the Derwent River recently sold for $3 million.
Similar levels of activity are occurring in the first home buyer and upgrader price brackets of the northern residential market, it noted.
The greatest activity occurring in Launceston’s more affordable suburbs is taking place in Newnham, Invermay and South Launceston.
Newnham is located approximately ve kilometres on the northern outskirts of Launceston and is predominantly residential with the University of Tasmania and The Australian Maritime College located nearby.
Properties that have recently sold in Newnham include a modern, two bedroom, one bathroom unit with one off street carpark which sold for $255,000 and an older style, renovated, five bedroom, two bathroom home with double garage that sold for $270,000.
Within the upgrader residential market segment Riverside, Newstead and Legana are proving to be the most popular with purchasers, HTW said.
Riverside is located along the western side of the Tamar River and is well contained with a shopping centre, public and private schools and sporting facilities. It is approximately a six kilometre commute to the city centre. A modern, four bedroom, three bathroom home with double garage and river views was recently sold in Riverside for $610,000 and a modern, three bedroom, two bathroom unit with river views and double garage sold for $360,000.
A recent notable sale in Launceston was for $1.4 million for a modern, four bedroom, three bathroom home located at Launceston’s Seaport overlooking the Tamar River. 
Sandy Bay ranked among the most expensive localities to purchase a house in Hobart, according to Investor last January.
The property investment firm says that the median price of a house in Sandy Bay stood at $850,000.
This was followed by West Hobart at $675,000 and Tranmere at $597,500.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Sandy Bay
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7005
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$850,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
West Hobart
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$675,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Tranmere
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7018
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$650,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Blackmans Bay
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7052
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$535,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Mount Nelson
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
7007
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$499,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-sandy+bay-123799882" target="_blank">26 Broadwaters Parade</a> (below) was sold for $870,000 in late 2016.
<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/2017/01/11/26%20Broadwaters%20Parade.jpg" alt="">
HTW nominated several hotspots in early 2017.
It advised the suburbs worth watching are Moonah, Glenorchy and Berriedale which are all suburbs within a 15 kilometre drive of the Hobart CBD, according to HTW’s February 2017 update. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Inner Hobart property prices the strongest across Tasmania over 10 years: CoreLogic

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A home overlooking The Bay of Fires in Tasmania has been listed for sale.
Architect designed with a nautical-inspired layout, the beach house on offers ocean views from its deck.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-the+gardens-127018046" target="_blank">The home</a> is set in The Gardens on an 800 sqm beachfront reserve.
<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/2017/12/20/bay2.jpg" alt="">
It has a loft style bedroom, open plan lounge and dining zone and lower deck with storage for kayaks and boats.
Kerri's Coastal Realty St Helens agent Kerri Kennewell has a price guide of $1.75 million.
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Tasmanian trophy home overlooking The Bay of Fires listed at $1.75 million

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The Lake House at Cressy in Tasmania, one of Australia's most iconic Georgian farming homes, has been listed through Institu Property agent Kristi Seymour.
The historic home comes with an advertised $15 million price tag
It was initially listed by Virgin Australia co-founder Rob Sherrard late last year.
The colonial property on 490 hectares in Cressy, 35 kilometres south-west of Launceston, was built in 1830 by London shipowner Robert Corney.
Inspired by British architect Sir John Soane, the stately three storey residence overlooking the Macquarie River has eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms and a number of appointed reception rooms of Georgian proportions.
Some $500,000 plus was conservatively expected to be needed to renovate the home when Sherrard bought it for $4,805,000 in 2004 after 50 years ownership by the Wall family.
Two renovated farm houses, stables, coach house and gardner's cottage make up the gardens that are well suited for cropping and fattening land. 
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The Lake House in Tasmania re-listed with $15 million hopes

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The historic Woodbridge Boutique Hotel in New Norfolk, Tasmania, has been listed for sale.
The property with Derwent River frontage, some 35 kilometres north west of Hobart, was built in the early 1820s, a significant early Colonial building.
Unique Estates agent Dominic Romeo is marketing the property which was originally a private residence. There was an award winning restoration in 2005.
The hotel itself is an award winner and is a member of Small Luxury Hotel of the World.
Spanning 1000 sqm, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-tas-new+norfolk-127073282" target="_blank">Woodbridge Boutique Hotel</a> is Tasmania's only AAA Accredited 5 star hotel.
<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/2017/11/28/Tassie2.jpg" alt="">
A charming entry hall leads to a number of reception rooms, formal and informal sitting rooms, a reading room and dining areas.
There are nine bedrooms all with their own ensuite and views over the river and mountains.
They have architectural features associated with the elegance of the Georgian era, from multi-paned windows and cedar fire surrounds to open wood fireplaces and doric columns.
An established garden is overlooked by a number of alfresco dining and seating areas.
A three storey pavilion sits in the grounds and is popular for weddings and private functions, holding up to 40 guests.
It features a bar, a manager's quarters, an office, commercial kitchen and meeting room.
On the parcel is a three room cottage and a multi-purpose building with sauna and spa.
 
 
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Tasmania's Woodbridge Boutique Hotel for sale

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The pavilion-style Courtyard House overlooking Tamar Valley in Dilston, near Launceston, has sold.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-tas-dilston-126351918" target="_blank">single level home</a>, completed in 2008, is wrapped around the solar heated swimming pool and spa has five bedrooms and three bathrooms.
<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/2017/11/1/Peddie2.jpg" alt="">
It was designed in three pavilions by architects Dean Baird and Peter Walker of Hobart's Circa Morris-Nunn Walker, the same architects who designed the luxury Saffire Resort at Coles Bay.
<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/2017/11/1/Peddie3.jpg" alt="">
The former Melbourne owners, who bought the vacant 1.5 hectare parcel for $225,000 in 2005 looking to a tree-change, wanted a contemporary country house.
A synthetic grass tennis court and studio sit on the parcel.
Insitu Property agent Kristi Seymour is asking $2.1 million.
 
 
 
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Courtyard House, Dilston home sold

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A shopping centre in the riverside city of Launceston in Tasmania has been sold through Savills for $38.55 million.
The off-market transaction for <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/2588298/" target="_blank">Mowbray Marketplace &amp; Target Centre</a> adds to Savills’ recent track record of more than $128 million worth of Tasmanian retail investment deals. 
The sub-regional shopping centre is anchored by Woolworths and Target, in addition to 16 other shops.
It has a total lettable area of more than 12,000 sqm.
The selling agent was Pat De Maria.
 
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Tasmanian shopping centre fetches $38.55 million: Savills

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Much has been written on Hobart’s market, now one of the strongest among the capital cities - but there’s more to the Tasmanian real estate up-cycle than the capital city.
Launceston also has a strong market and is now one of the leading markets in regional Australia.
Several Launceston suburbs have recorded double-digit median price growth in the past 12 months.
Launceston (the suburb within the city of the same name) recorded 16% growth in its median house price, Newstead rose 17%, Mayfield 11%, Mowbray 9% and Prospect Vale 8%.
There were some spectacular growth numbers in the city’s unit market as well, but median price data for units can be distorted and misleading. The median unit price for East Launceston is up 28%, but it’s unlikely values have risen to that degree.
The figures suggest the stock shortage seen in Hobart is also evident in Launceston. In January there were 1,900 listings for the Launceston area on realestate.com.au, but a recent check shows just 1,350 homes for sale.
Launceston prices have risen on the back of increases in sales activity, as revealed by the Spring survey for The Price Predictor Index by Hotspotting.
Launceston has eight suburbs with growth markets, while the nearby West Tamar LGA has three.
Affordable Invermay (median house price $230,000) is an example of the rising activity in this region. Its sales levels have grown from 19 to 22 to 24 to 29 to 34 to 37 in the past six quarters.
Launceston is a substantial regional city with a population around 80,000 and one with many historical features.
It’s the commercial hub for northern Tasmania’s agricultural and pastoral activities which, in recent years, have evolved from the growing of apples to viticulture.
Wool is also an important industry while $130 million has been spent on the Meander Dam and irrigation infrastructure to support the agricultural sector, according to the Meander Valley Council.
But agriculture and history are not the only parts of Launceston’s character - it has a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, minerals and resources, commercial shipping, tourism and educational facilities.
Pharmaceuticals manufacturing earns the region about $130 million each year. Tasmanian Alkaloids, located near Westbury, is the largest exporter of thebaine and oripavine (both opiates from which codeine and morphine are derived) used in the world.
The company employs 200 local people including scientists and engineers, while about 500 Tasmanian farmers are contracted to produce 50% of the world’s licit opiate supply.
With the signing in April of the Launceston City Deal by the Federal Government, State Government and City of Launceston, the city’s future prospects have strengthened.
The five-year plan will ensure investment in serious infrastructure, the headline act being the $260 million redevelopment and relocation of University of Tasmania’s main Launceston campus to Inveresk.
The new campus is projected to increase economic output in the local community by $360 million a year over 10 years, with an estimated direct and indirect economic impact of $965 million during the construction phase.
It is projected to create 2,760 jobs, including 430 jobs during construction. It will provide the capacity to grow student participation by 10,000 students by 2030, including 1,500 international students, and will eventually house 16,000 students, researchers and staff.
Against that backdrop, interest in Launceston real estate from interstate investors is rising – and with it, house prices.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="mailto:%20%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'%3E%20%3C!--%20var%20prefix%20=%20'ma'%20+%20'il'%20+%20'to';%20var%20path%20=%20'hr'%20+%20'ef'%20+%20'=';%20var%20addy38821%20=%20'ryder'%20+%20'@';%20addy38821%20=%20addy38821%20+%20'hotspotting'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'com'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'au';%20document.write('%3Ca%20'%20+%20path%20+%20'/''%20+%20prefix%20+%20':'%20+%20addy38821%20+%20'/'%3E');%20document.write(addy38821);%20document.write('%3C//a%3E');%20//--%3E/n%20%3C/script%3E%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
 
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