When Antoinette Chan and her architect husband, Peter began casually searching for an investment property, they weren’t expecting it to evolve into a life-changing family decision.

But one visit to the display suite of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a>’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/koyo-crows-nest-1-11-rodborough-avenue-crows-nest-nsw-2065">KOYO</a> development in Crows Nest changed everything, and sparked a remarkable story of three generations choosing to live side by side in one of the suburb's most architecturally-striking new developments.

Antoinette, her mother Janet Khoo, and her sister, who is currently living in Singapore, each purchased an apartment in the same building, creating a rare and meaningful multi-generational living arrangement underpinned by modern design, community values, and premium convenience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356083]

“It wasn’t planned,” says Antoinette, who purchased a three-bedroom garden apartment with her husband and teenage daughter. “Peter came across KOYO and encouraged me to visit because he had a lot of respect for Abadeen’s previous work. As soon as we saw it, we knew it wasn’t just an investment, this was a home.”

Shortly after, Antoinette suggested her mother, Janet Khoo, take a look at the same development. A long-time inner-city resident who had recently sold her property in The Rocks, Janet had experienced some health setbacks and was contemplating a move closer to her daughter.

“I walked into the display apartment, and it just felt right,” says Janet. “I didn’t look anywhere else. The space, the simplicity of the design, the light, everything gave me a sense of peace. It’s a new beginning, but it also feels like home.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356093]

In a stroke of serendipity, Janet selected the two-bedroom apartment next door to her daughter, completely unaware of Antoinette’s purchase. Around the same time, Antoinette’s sister, who resides in Singapore, viewed the property via a virtual tour and chose to buy the apartment directly above Janet’s.

“We were all drawn to KOYO individually, and it just happened that our homes ended up vertically stacked, ground, first, and second floor,” Antoinette laughs. “It was a coincidence, but also a sign. This is where we’re meant to be.”

Designed by celebrated architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, KOYO delivered on all fronts for the Chan-Khoo family.

“Our garden apartment gives us the feel of a standalone home but with none of the maintenance,” says Antoinette. “All three bedrooms open onto a generous private garden, which is perfect for our dog Archie, and for entertaining. The open-plan layout and high ceilings make it feel airy, calm and luxurious.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356092]

For Janet, security and accessibility were top priorities, and KOYO offered the ideal balance.

“At my age, I didn’t want to be climbing stairs,” she explains. “The first-floor apartment opens directly to the garden, and the building is small, which gives it a more personal, village-like feel. Yet I’m just steps away from my daughter and granddaughter. That gives me so much peace of mind.”

The family also appreciated the thoughtful amenities that avoided the excesses of some larger developments.

“We didn’t want a complex with too many facilities we wouldn’t use,” explains Antoinette. “KOYO has everything we need, generous storage, secure parking, beautifully landscaped walkways, and a stunning rooftop terrace with BBQ facilities that feels serene rather than busy.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=355428]

The location was another critical factor in the family’s decision. Though they had always lived closer to Sydney’s eastern suburbs, Antoinette says the transformation of Crows Nest was a revelation.

“When we returned from living overseas, we discovered Crows Nest had become this vibrant, walkable hub,” she says. “We love being able to stroll to cafés, restaurants, and shops on Willoughby Road. The new Metro makes the commute into the CBD effortless, and our daughter can walk to her school, it’s just next door."

Janet agree. “I was worried about giving up my inner-city lifestyle, but I’ve fallen in love with this area. It has everything I need, supermarkets, quiet streets, friendly faces, and it’s all a short walk away. I feel safe, independent, and connected.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=356085]

While design and location were important, the family also credits their decision to Abadeen’s reputation and responsiveness. With decades of experience delivering high-quality residential projects, Abadeen’s track record helped build trust during a volatile market period.

“The waiting game was tough, especially after selling my old apartment,” says Janet. “But the Abadeen team kept me updated every step of the way. They were professional, courteous, and transparent.”

Antoinette said Peter works in property and had already heard of Abadeen. "The quality of their work really impressed us, and as the project neared completion, they went above and beyond to keep us informed and supported. That level of communication is rare.”

Only a handful of three-bedroom residences remain for sale, priced from $3.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108800]

Joel Robinson

Three generations, one address: How a family found sanctuary and connection at Abadeen's KOYO in Crows Nest

Sydney-based developer Gold Partners Australia is making its move on the Gold Coast, launching what is one of the most affordable towers to the booming Broadbeach market.

Its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harmony-on-broadbeach-2797-gold-coast-highway-broadbeach-qld-4218">Harmony on Broadbeach</a> project, just 400m from the beach, has prices starting from $975,000 for its two-bedroom apartments that measure nearly 90 sqm internally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355607]

There will be 113 two- and three-bedroom apartments spread out across the 33-storey tower on the 1,201 sqm site that will front First Avenue. Gold Partners Australia, which has delivered several major projects in Sydney's Norwest and has an active pipeline with projects in Hornsby and Carlingford, secured the block vacant, and want to start preliminary site works early next year through their in-house construction capability.

DBI Architects designed the tower with a four-level podium which will have an open-air swimming pool, sun deck, outdoor lounges, alfresco dining spaces, and a gym with adjoining yoga lawn. A hospitality venue will anchor the building at street level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355611]

Olympus Property Group is selling Harmony on Broadbeach on behalf of Gold Partners Australia. Olympus Director Deanna Lockett says the project is resonating with everyone from locals, investors, those moving from interstate, and second home buyers from Brisbane.

"There's been nothing new come to the market in Broadbeach at this price point for nearly a year," Lockett recalls. "It hits the sweet spot of affordability, good sized apartments, in a great location."

Construction will commence in Q2 2026, and wrap up, all going well, by the end of 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113098]

Harmony on Broadbeach launches to booming Gold Coast suburb

Display apartments play a crucial role in helping buyers imagine how a space will look and feel once complete.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004">The Albertine</a> in Melbourne, development giant Mirvac has partnered with furniture maker and retailer MCM House to create a fully furnished, full-scale prototype that showcases the proportions, finishes, and design intent of the project’s three-bedroom residences.

As an added incentive, purchasers of any two- or three-bedroom apartment can receive up to $50,000 worth of MCM House furniture, allowing them to curate their new home with the same craftsmanship, contemporary design, and aesthetic showcased in the display apartment.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ae2e947b-2d51-4288-88fa-a35638e3be0f" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.27.26%E2%80%AFAM_1.png?VersionId=T5uSwgtTFwd1m5EdQF1inB.tBDgxqbtZ" /></a>

Oversized sofas, solid timber dining tables, and relaxed, low-profile seating demonstrate how the space accommodates real furniture, helping buyers clearly visualise how their new apartment could look, complete with pieces that genuinely suit the scale and design of the home.

The styling is simple but deliberate, with materials that pick up on the apartment’s natural light and neutral tones, creating cohesion without crowding the space.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="355f10d8-ee75-4546-a42e-4a54abcc806e" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e0b920b-3f17-47f0-8885-f67697a5f842" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%201.17.07%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=tPcmBls5kt_SLqE2ONXrxgk5SnC1xERs" /></a>

Mirvac is now welcoming buyers through the display at The Albertine. Quietly yet conveniently positioned just off St Kilda Road on Queens Road, the development has attracted strong interest from inner-Melbourne and Bayside downsizers, professional couples seeking luxurious low-maintenance living, and design-focused buyers who want proximity to the CBD.

Apartments have been designed by Mirvac's inhouse design team with owner-occupiers at the forefront.&nbsp;The living and dining areas open directly onto a balcony, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on indoor-outdoor flow, while kitchens feature integrated appliances and soft-curve cabinetry which mirror the larger architectural themes at play throughout the building.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8f9b371-17e1-4122-a615-074113096135" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-albertine-by-mirvac-melbourne-31-queens-lane-melbourne-vic-3004"><img alt="Albertine" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-25%20at%209.30.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NCYvtMavnE1_YDhX6slAr7g84MWP0Ymp" /></a>

The Albertine offers one to four-bedroom residences complemented by exclusive resident-only amenity, including The Circadian Club, a wellness centre with an indoor pool and spa, gym, yoga and Pilates studio, and sauna, as well as The Elysian Room, a private dining space on level 10 with sweeping views across Melbourne.

Mirvac will welcome residents to The Albertine in 2026, having recently celebrated topping out the&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>&nbsp;recently topped out&nbsp; the topping out of The Albertine, with completion expected in 2026.

To find out more about the generous furniture offer with MCM House, enquire below.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138659]

Mirvac unveils The Albertine display, offering up to $50k in MCM House furniture

Since the pandemic hit Australia, there’s arguably not been a suburb anywhere in the country more popular than Palm Beach. Data from Apartments.com.au showed that from 2020 to 2021, enquiry spiked by 130 per cent, driven predominantly by local and interstate purchasers snapping up luxury beachfront apartments.

While enquiry levels returned to early (though not pre-pandemic) levels in 2022, the appetite for living in the coastal enclave didn’t fade. The dip in enquiry was due simply to supply running out; every development was selling out in record time. Search traffic, one of the clearest indicators of buyer interest that reflects demand beyond available supply, remained as high as when enquiries peaked.

Developers responded quickly. They were snapping up sites left, right, and centre, racing to bring projects to market to meet the ongoing demand. Many of those who benefited from the COVID-induced boom are now back in the suburb again.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is one such developer. Having perfectly timed its entry into the Palm Beach market, Sherpa launched Perspective Two Sea and Perspective 488 at the height of the boom. Perspective 488 sold out in three months, impressive in itself, before the developer went on to sell out Perspective Two Sea, just nine full-floor apartments, in a matter of weeks, with prices ranging between $3.5 million and $4.75 million.

Sherpa has since completed Perspective Nexus, which sold out prior to its recent construction completion, and has just commenced work on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Amargo</a> on Sixth Avenue, the first project under its new Flourish brand, designed to offer more price-accessible apartments. Already, 85 per cent of Amargo’s apartments have sold, starting from under $600,000, and Sherpa has secured three more sites in the suburb for future projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=306037]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a>, led by Josh Foote, followed a similar trajectory. Foote delivered Periscope in 2019, then rode the post-COVID boom, selling out Cabana Palm Beach, 30 apartments, in just eight weeks. It was one of the fastest-selling projects on the Gold Coast at the time, with prices ranging from $1.775 million to over $5.5 million.

Foote has now re-entered the Palm Beach market with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-188-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat Palm Beach</a>, a 56-apartment development on Jefferson Lane, featuring two- and three-bedroom residences, most with butler’s pantries, private outdoor spaces, and curated interior finishes. Prices range from $1.35 million to $3.95 million. Ignite will soon commence construction, having recently brought building capability in-house.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1851]

Foote says Palm Beach has transformed dramatically in the last six years. “The buildings we knocked down for Periscope had needles and all sorts falling out of the walls. The units themselves literally had junkies and prostitutes living in them,” Foote recalls. “In many ways, the development in Palm Beach has obviously done the suburb a huge benefit. I feel the planning department could be a little loose now though, and there will be regrets later as it changes so rapidly.”

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1845]

It’s been a little longer between projects for Brisbane-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>, which completed Sable Palm Beach in 2019, shortly before the COVID boom. The developer is now returning with plans for a 14-storey tower featuring 68 apartments and three double-storey townhouses facing Jefferson Lane.

BPG Director Glen Williams, who runs the company alongside Nick Parr, says the duo only develop in locations they love. “I’ve been a part of the Currumbin Surf Club for the last two decades,” Williams says. “We love the southern end of the Gold Coast and are looking forward to bringing more apartments to the area.”

The appeal of Palm Beach has also drawn interstate developers. Sydney-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> selected the suburb for its Gold Coast debut, securing a site on Mawarra Street near Palm Beach State High School. The developer is nearing completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/villea-palm-beach-26-mawarra-street-palm-beach-qld-4221">Villea</a>, a 69-apartment project that will sit above an activated ground plane. Abadeen Founder and Chairman Justin Brown says Palm Beach was a natural choice.

“We recognised an opportunity to introduce our prestigious brand into a location that is absolutely thrumming with demand for high-end living,” Brown says. “Palm Beach is widely regarded as the embodiment of coastal idyll and one of the Gold Coast’s premium lifestyle locations, and we intend to honour that with a collection of contemporary residences that accentuate the area’s appeal.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336441]

Also nearing completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elevaire-palm-beach-1409-1411-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Elevaire</a>, a 40-apartment project at the northern end of Palm Beach on the Gold Coast Highway. The building includes hot and cold magnesium plunge pools, with remaining apartments starting from just under $1.4 million.

SRQ Projects Director Nicholas Clydsdale, who is marketing both Villea and Elevaire, says Palm Beach continues to top the list for buyers for a number of reasons. “It’s the most accessible beachfront suburb on the southern Gold Coast,” Clydsdale says. “It’s also got the most beautiful beach, bookended by two of Queensland’s most stunning headlands — Currumbin and Burleigh.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112941 project_image_fid=216015]

Also joining the Palm Beach boom are Gold Coast locals Tim Gordon and Bruce Mathieson, the duo behind the ultra-luxury Mantaray Residences and Marina at Main Beach’s The Spit. Their project, Elle on Jefferson, designed by Cottee Parker, comprises 58 apartments and a suite of wellness amenities, including a 15-metre lap pool, hot and cold plunge pools, private cabanas, a sauna, steam rooms, and a holistic gym offering cardio, weights, yoga, and Pilates.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147111 project_image_fid=356658]

Having developed Lyra Hope Island, Sydney and Gold Coast developer Changfa found an affordable pocket for their recently launched new development Corallo, where one-bed apartments start from just $845,000.

The $200 million mixed-use project on the corner of the Gold Coast Highway and Palm Beach Avenue includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=805]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location, just metres from the beach,&nbsp;influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-architecture" target="">Plus Architecture</a>&nbsp;studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>&nbsp;locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217" target="">Surfers Paradise</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/currumbin-qld-4223" target="">Currumbin</a>, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

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No slowing down Palm Beach as new apartment market takes centre stage, again

Plans have been revealed for the third and final stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>’s $3 billion Rhodes Central masterplan, bringing the iconic new town centre closer to completion.&nbsp;

The final tower, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cascade-23-25-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Cascade</a>, at&nbsp;23-25 Marquet Street in Sydney’s inner west, will comprise 361 new dwellings, a mix of critically needed affordable housing and multi-generational apartments.&nbsp;

Vibrant retail, interactive public space, an upscale food and beverage offering and an alfresco dining plaza will also be delivered alongside Cascade tower as part of the final stage, which comes off the back of&nbsp;the masterplan’s successful first two stages.&nbsp;

Stage one saw 568 apartments delivered along with the national award-winning Rhodes Central shopping centre, while stage two has delivered a further 673 apartments atop the $85 million Rhodes Recreation Centre.&nbsp;

Officially opened in November 2025 by Mayor Michael Megna, the Recreation Centre was delivered under a Voluntary Planning Agreement with City of Canada Bay Council. It features essential community facilities including a gym, early childhood learning centre, indoor sports courts, and a gymnastics area as well as commercial tenancies and amenities.

Once complete, the five-tower Rhodes Central masterplan will deliver a combined total of over 1,600 new homes for about 3,500 people, along with community infrastructure, retail, dining, and an expansive new public domain and plaza along Marquet Street. A new basement and podium rooftop will connect all five buildings and allow residents to share amenities.

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="973ae3a2-58e6-4994-8965-ed9332a57e8a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Masterplanaerialimage.jpg?VersionId=Mj.mjUQyfh334xG71LQr7wCFu3mmDxnj" />

“We’re now a step closer to realising our vision for Rhodes Central,"&nbsp;said Saul Moran, Development Director – Planning and Design at Billbergia..

"With brand new retail and more public open space, this final stage embodies our commitment to creating connected communities and delivering housing diversity amid Sydney’s housing crisis. It also completes the landmark town centre precinct that has been almost 20 years in the making."

The project sets a benchmark for Transport Orientated Development. It brings life to Billbergia’s vision for a future-focused, liveable urban environment that prioritises amenity, not just density. &nbsp;Overall, it will deliver more than 25,000 sqm in publicly accessible amenity, including Rhodes Central Shopping Centre, Rhodes Recreation Centre, commercial office space and a further 1,200 square metres of retail space in stage three.

“Rhodes has evolved over two decades from a former industrial site into a connected, thriving community," said John Pradel, Partner and Master Plan Lead at SJB.

"Each stage has built on the last, adding not just housing, but the civic and social spaces that make a place truly liveable and allow the community to flourish."

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e96de93-e50a-424f-9de8-7b3d9c2c0f12" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BLBG0900_RCSGIII_R02%20Retail%20Laneway%20copy.jpg?VersionId=3TksNisT5iwyBCGhGUvHDtR9aIca9_OQ" />

Ideally positioned adjacent to the 13,000 sqm Rhodes Central shopping centre, stage three will boast an additional 10 per cent of retail space, an upmarket restaurant offering, an open-air dining plaza and an expansive 2,000-square-metre addition to the public domain extending into the retail forecourt.&nbsp;

This new realm will enhance pedestrian connectivity while showcasing an interactive water feature and engaging public art. It has been designed as an active community space and will also feature pop-up civic infrastructure, including a community stage and kiosk for placemaking events.

The residential tower Cascade will comprise 361 apartments over 39-levels, including 72 affordable dwellings. Apartments will be available in a range of floorplans from one to four-bedroom configurations, with a luxe two-storey “skyhouse” spanning the top two levels. Communal viewing decks and gardens with BBQ facilities will crown Cascade’s rooftop, offering expansive views of the Blue Mountains to the West and Brays Bay and Sydney CBD to the East.&nbsp;

<img alt="$3 billion Rhodes Town Centre vision comes to life with final stage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="814da600-5368-49d3-8fec-025521a4d0e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BLBG0900_RCSGIII_IN01%20Apt%2037.04%20Livingy%20copy.jpg?VersionId=.xA6cpRQLx4kJiQayt3OrydVQ9ReGmXP" />

High-profile architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a> will design the final stage after winning a design excellence competition in collaboration with Land and Form in September 2024. The Rhodes Central masterplan was originally conceived by SJB in 2005, with the firm subsequently delivering the design for Stages One and Two.&nbsp;

Cascade has a striking design with a slender tower grounded by a four-storey podium. The tower is divided into three forms, with a distinctive silhouette that resembles three fingers. The design optimises amenity and privacy while maximising views towards both Sydney CBD and Homebush Bay.&nbsp;

According to SJB, the project’s design aims to deliver a range of dwelling types, including multi-generational floorplans, catering to emerging needs of the growing population.

Emily Wombwell, Director and Design Lead at SJB, said their concept encompasses a broader site vision that integrates this site with Rhodes Town Centre through a new iconic building and generous public domain.

"Cascade’s design offers a variety of living typologies that cater to a diverse range of existing and emerging demographics. The proposal aims to improve social and environmental connections by creating a safe and welcoming landscape for existing and future communities of Rhodes."

Billbergia has filed a&nbsp;State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for the final stage. Demolition has been completed on site, early works including excavation will begin early 2026, with completion estimated in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135080]

Billbergia unveils new Cascade apartment tower with final stage of $3 billion Rhodes Town Centre

Tribunal

<html><body>
Gayla Currie, who worked for Century 21 Max Comben real estate agency in Perth, has been caught presenting more than 20 fake contracts for fake property sales.
The real estate agent has been banned from working in the industry for life after being found guilty of fabricating purchase offers on numerous properties.
The forged contracts pretended to be prospective buyers.
The punishment was imposed by the State Administrative Tribunal on Currie, who worked as a sales representative in 2015 and 2016.
Ms Currie began working for the agency as a sales representative in February 2015 and was supervised by Mr Comben. Ms Currie held a sales representative certificate from October 2012 to October 2015 but failed to renew her certificate of registration until February 2016. She continued her sales activities with the agency between October 2015 and February 2016, despite not holding a certificate of registration.
Currie’s employer and sales supervisor Maxwell Comben were also fined by the SAT for breaching the Real Estate and Business Agents Act.
The SAT found as supervisor, Comben had failed to notice that signatures on the offers were in Currie’s handwriting, finance letters from banks were forged, phone numbers were made up and none of the sales ever settled.
Consumer Protection commissioner David Hillyard said there had been a serious lack of proper supervision on Comben’s part.
"Property owners who put their trust in the agency have endured great inconvenience and financial disadvantage,” he said.
Max has been selling in the Real Estate industry for over 41 years and all of these 41 years have been in the local area.  Max Comden commenced selling in 1975.  Max has been inducted into the prestigious Century 21 Hall Of Fame which is the highest individual award offered by Century 21. He is a "Centurion" level salesperson putting him in the top 2% if sales people in the largest real estate system world wide.
Currie’s employer Sakar Pty Ltd, trading as Century 21 Max Comben, was fined $2,000 and sales supervisor Maxwell Comben was fined $3,000 by the SAT for breaching the Real Estate and Business Agents Act by failing to exercise due care, skill and diligence and continuing to employ a sales representative in the time period that the sales representative’s certificate of registration had expired and was therefore no longer valid. The agency and Mr Comben were reprimanded and ordered to also pay costs of $1,200.
The SAT findings:
<ul data-reactid="103">
<li data-reactid="104">Sixteen fake contracts of offer and acceptance to the owner of a Westminster property between May 2015 and February 2016;</li>
<li data-reactid="106">Two fake contracts of offer and acceptance to the owner of a Balcatta property in October 2015 and January 2016;</li>
<li data-reactid="108">Three fake contracts of offer and acceptance to the owner of a Morley property between December 2015 and March 2016; and</li>
<li data-reactid="110">One fake contract of offer and acceptance to the owners of a Stirling property in February 2016.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Century 21 agent banned after fake sale contracts on Perth homes

<html><body>
Former Provident Capital director Michael O’Sullivan has lost his appeal against his disqualification, with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) saying that he showed no “genuine contrition for his conduct or genuine insight into his corporate failures”.
The AAT upheld ASIC's decision that O’Sullivan be disqualified from managing corporations for five years and from providing financial services for seven years.
The AAT qualified the five-year disqualification decision by permitting O'Sullivan to remain as a director of three private companies, provided that those companies only involve activities relating to his immediate family.
The AAT said: “The behaviour of Mr O'Sullivan has fallen below the standard that is expected and required of a public company director.” 
The AAT found his behaviour “involved either a subconscious or at times an attempt to camouflage or massage critical information and to even completely prevent that information from being disclosed on a timely basis”.
The AAT highlighted that “deficient disclosure [of information] was designed to obfuscate the real position” and that this behaviour “put at risk the funds of certain third party investors who were largely being kept in the dark about the precarious nature” of one of Provident's largest loans.
ASIC's commissioner John Price welcomed the AAT finding, saying: “ASIC is committed to taking action against directors who fail to exercise care and diligence in the management of company assets. 
“ASIC's powers to disqualify directors of failed companies and to ban individuals from providing financial services are important preventative measures to safeguard the public interest.”
O'Sullivan had previously been granted a stay of the disqualification order, pending the AAT's review of ASIC's decision.
He has 28 days to appeal this decision to the Federal Court.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Michael O'Sullivan loses appeal against ASIC ban following Provident Capital collapse

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<div class="author">GUEST OBSERVER </div>
<div class="author"> </div>
<div class="author">In a recent matter, the partition of land before it was subdivided, and the timing of registering strata lots, resulted in a decision where the owner of the land was not considered to be a developer under the Home Building Act (the Act).</div>
<div class="author"> </div>
<div class="author">As such, the owner bears no liabilities regarding statutory warranties in the Act. So what happened, and what are the lessons to be learnt?</div>
What are statutory warranties?
Statutory warranties are warranties that a person is entitled to under the contract with a builder/tradesperson. Even if the warranties aren’t written into the contract, under the law they still apply to the work being done on a home. Statutory warranties are in effect for six years for major defects and two years for all other defects, commencing from the date of completion.
The Act states that anyone who is the immediate successor in title to an owner-builder, a holder of a contractor licence, a former holder or a developer who has done residential building work on land is entitled to the benefit of the statutory warranties as if these parties were required to hold a contractor licence and had done the work under contract with that successor in title.
What happened in this instance?
In 2007, Trilogy Capital (Cremorne Developments) Pty Ltd (TD) and Trilogy Capital Services Pty Ltd (TC) bought land in Cremorne as tenants in common.
Development consent was obtained to build a mix of commercial and residential buildings. TD contracted with a building and construction company, Southern Cross Constructions, to undertake the work.
After the Occupation Certificate for the residential work was issued in October, TD and TC applied to North Sydney Council for two strata subdivisions, dividing Lot 1 into 7 commercial lots and Lot 2 into 17 residential lots. Around the same time TD and TC transferred their respective holdings to each other at the bargain basement price of $1.00 so TC became the full owner of Lot 1 and TD owned all of Lot 2. The strata subdivision was registered at the end of November.
In December strata plans were registered - 79706 for TC’s commercial lots, and 79707 for the residential lots owned by TD.
Work proceeded but things went pear-shaped in 2013 and the Owners Corporation of the residential lots commenced proceedings in the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal against the builder. Southern Cross was placed into liquidation so the Owners Corporation pursued TD as the developer. Unfortunately for the Owners Corporation, TD was also in trouble and it too went into liquidation. With only one horse left in the race, the Owners Corporation went after TC in an attempt to rectify the defective works.
So who is a “developer”?
According to the Act; an individual, partnership or corporation is a developer if residential work is undertaken on land they own – even if they haven’t physically been involved in the development. They are also classified as a developer if the work is done on behalf of another person - for example, on behalf of a party to a joint venture agreement with the owner for the development of the land. The person on whose behalf the work is actually done is also a developer.
It’s important to note that the work undertaken must be done in connection with an existing or proposed dwelling in a building or residential development where at least four of the dwellings are or will be owned by the individual, partnership or corporation.
In this matter, the tribunal had to determine whether TC was a 'developer' within the meaning of the Act and as such liable for a breach of the statutory warranties. It also has to establish whether the Owners Corporation was the 'immediate successor" in title.
The outcome
The Owners Corporation argued that the residential dwellings existed by 29 November, 2007 – at which point in time, TC was still a 25% owner of both lots as tenant in common and as such, owned four or more of the residential lots.
TC didn’t dispute the previous ownership however, said that by the time the Owners Corporation became successor in title to whomever owned the residential lots in December, TD was the only owner.
The tribunal member agreed with TC, ruling that statutory warranties weren’t applicable. The Owners Corporation was unsuccessful in appealing the decision to the Appeal Panel which reaffirmed the opinion of the tribunal that TC was in fact, not a developer. The Appeal Panel cited the fact that the strata home units couldn’t be owned until after the strata plan had been registered and TC was never intended to have any ownership after this registration had taken place. 
Whilst the decision is in no way definitive it may allow 'developers' to argue that they are not bound by the statutory warranties where there has been a partition of land or a transfer prior to the registration of the strata plan.
Nick Kallipolitis is principal, Coleman Greig Lawyers and can be contacted <a href="https://www.colemangreig.com.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Property 101: Tribunal finds Cremorne landowner not liable for building defects

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A Brisbane real estate agent has been ordered to pay $12,687 in fines and compensation by the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal for operating without a real estate agent licence and the improper use of a trust account.
Damien Grimsey was fined $5,000 for trading unlicensed. He was disqualified from holding any form of real estate licence or certificate for seven years.
Grimsey was also ordered to pay $7,687 compensation to a client for failing to pass on an insurance claim payment.
The tribunal heard Grimsey stepped in to take over his father’s real estate business, State Invest Property Services, while his father was hospitalised.
Grimsey operated without a licence from July 2008 to November 2008 and May 2011 to January 2012.
After a receiver was placed in charge of State Invest Property Services, Grimsey opened another trust account under a similar name and sent notices to clients falsely stating that normal trading would shortly resume under the new trust account.
Fair Trading executive director Brian Bauer said that even in unfortunate circumstances, family members could not simply take over a licensed business.
“The property industry is licenced and regulated to protect the public and maintain a high level of professionalism,” Bauer said.
“Consumers have the right to expect their real estate agent is appropriately licensed, and has the training and knowledge to be able to carry out the job properly."
The law does allow a principal licensee to appoint a substitute licensee for a period of not more than 30 days providing certain conditions are satisfied under the Property Occupations Act 2014.
 
 
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Queensland 'agent' fined for taking over sick dad's estate agency

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Heading to tribunal, or VCAT in Victoria, can unsurprisingly fill tenants, property managers and landlords with dread.

VCAT deputy president, head of review and regulation Heather Lambrick said that the best way, truly, to win at VCAT is not to come in the first place.

"Every case that comes before VCAT has a losing party. Everybody comes in the door thinking that they're going to win the case, that they're going to walk out victorious [and] that they're going to be really happy with the outcome ... Sadly, that's not the case," said Lambrick at a recent Taking it to VCAT information session at the William Cooper Justice Centre.

In fact, settlements are the best way to sort out an issue. Talk to the other side, don't keep secrets and try to resolve the issues prior to taking it to tribunal. Hear are <a href="/expert-insights/buying/four-investor-tips-to-keep-you-out-of-tribunal">four tips for keeping you out of tribunal in the first place</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27638]

If, however, you do end up at tribunal, then she notes there's one thing that lets people down: a lack of preparation.

You might not need legal representation, in fact she notes that many have represented themselves and have won at tribunal, however you must prepare adequately. If the concept of some of the preparation explains below fills you with dread, then it might be time to seek some preliminary assistance.

While some are well-placed to handle their own case, due to their intimate knowledge with it, of course some can't see the woods for the trees. Best to identify which camp you are in early.

"If you haven't prepared your case don't expect to win," she explained.

"You may not be a lawyer, but you're expected to prepare. They can only judge based on what is presented."

So how do you effectively prepare for VCAT?

Here are some fundamental tips.

Understand what it is that you are going to VCAT for.

Answer to yourself the following questions:

<ul>
<li>Why am I coming? 
	 </li>
	<li>Why am I making the application in the first place? 
	 </li>
	<li>What am I hoping to achieve?</li>
</ul>
If you don't really know what it is your hoping to achieve "you're not going to be able to persuade me that I should give you what you're hoping to achieve," she explains.

You need to have the idea clear in your mind and then prepare to get from A, where you are now, to B, what you want to achieve.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24432]

<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Know the relevant law

Lambrick notes that while some believe the tribunal members "make it up as they go along", the truth is that VCAT is a creature of statute. Meaning, for every action they take there is a piece of legislation behind it.

You aren't expected to be a lawyer, or "know every case in the history of the universe". However, you are certainly expected to know the legislation that covers you dispute and, preferably, which section of the legislation specifically.

If there isn't a piece of legislation to cover your dispute, then it's not an issue VCAT can assist with.

Isolate the issues

The majority of parties, surprisingly, agree on the majority of things about the case. For instance, the nature of the relationship, when a lease began, and similar details are often not in dispute.

Find out what it is you're really arguing.

"Don't spend a lot of time preparing what everyone agrees on - that's just background information," she explains.

Get the documents to prove your issues

You now have the issues on hand, about which you believe you are correct. The next step is proving it, perhaps with tools, photogrpahs, documents or a person who needs to give evidence. Decide which documents you need, and start to collect them.

Anticipate the other side of the argument

You've now decided on what your issues are and how you will prove your case.

However, she warns, "Cases aren't won on their strengths, they're lost on their weaknesses". Be aware of these weaknesses by preparing for the counter argument.

One way to get this done is to write yourself some lists.

Grab a piece of paper and put a line down the middle. She then recommends putting the 'pros' for your case and the 'cons' on the other side.

On the other piece of paper, you need to write down the evidence you have on your side. Consider the evidence they might also have, and see how it stacks up.

Everything you're planning to say at tribunal needs to be prepared for.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93128]

Ensure you have everything with you

Bring your documents, and all your information in order.

Don't forget a pen and paper - it sounds silly, but it's crucial to bring these with you for noting down important points as they arise.

As this isn't an American TV show court, she laughs, there isn't the opportunity to say 'objection' at every turn. If the counter argument brings up a point you disagree with - write it down and wait your turn.

Ask for help if you need it

"If you're self-represented, we're here to help. We want the best possible case from each side," she explains.

If you don't know when you're supposed to talk, don't hesitate to ask and clarify.

Watch other cases

Sit in on a couple of tribunal cases - you'll find that it may help steady your nerves, she said, noting that it's not uncommon for first timers to be nervous coming to tribunal.

You'll quick learn some of the common customs.

For instance, she notes that the vast majority of hearings are held in rooms that are not as formal as you might expect. However, when the tribunal member comes into the room, the common courtesy is for everyone to stand.

The usual way to address the tribunal member is also "Sir" or "Madam".

You will also learn some lessons for future reference. Here's a<a href="/news/landlords-must-be-aware-of-the-implied-tenancy-agreement-lessons-from-tribunal"> lesson from a previous Tribunal case</a>.

Stay calm and be polite

Throughout the process you may be encouraged to negotiate with the other side, and if you've been rude due to being nervous then you may limit your chances of a more favourable outcome.

For more tips on winning at VCAT, you can <a href="/news/vic/property-management-tips-for-winning-at-vcat">read a property management perspective here</a>.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

How to win your case at tribunal: VCAT deputy president

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A man who took out home renovation work without a licence, as well as breached home building legislation, has been ordered to pay $40,000 in fines and costs, after facing the Parramatta Local Court this month.
Buddy Charbel Challita, a 42 year old from Greenacre, was convicted ex-parte on 2 May, fined $6,000 for unlicensed contracting of specialist work, $18,000 for thrice demanding/receiving payment before the work had commenced and $18,000 for thrice contracting residential work without an insurance certificate.
Challita also had to pay professional and court costs, totalling $2,095, costing him $44,095 in overall.
He had applied to Fair Trading for a contractor licence in 2009. This was refused as he had a bankrupt status.
Despite this, in April 2013 he contracted with an East Hills home owner to create two new bathrooms, a laundry and a kitchen. The amount of the work would be $33,420. Under New South Wales requirements, this would need a licence. No home warranty insurance was in place.
He also received a $4,000 deposit from that property owner – this is above the 5% maximum allowed under the Home Building Act. After paying these sums, three months passed with little work undertaken. The property owner was then required to pay for other contractors to complete the work.
Acting Fair Trading Commissioner, Rob Vellar, said that the whole idea of the Home Building Act is to protect consumers from these situations.
“Unlicensed building and commencing work without Home Warranty Insurance in place can not only have a potentially adverse impact upon the future re-sale value of a property,” said Vellar.
“It can also been downright dangerous. Always check your builder is appropriately licensed before entering into any contract for home renovations.”
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Unlicensed home renovator and builder ordered to pay more than $40,000

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Only a few days ago <a href="/news/western-australia-building-company-to-pay-10-000-penalty-after-misleading-city-of-geraldton">Property Observer reported about a builder misleading the City of Geraldton</a>, copping a total of $10,000 in fines. This time, it's the City of Stirling who claim to have been misled.
The West Perth builder John Joseph Dryka will pay $10,000 in fines and $2,000 of costs for misleading conduct under the Building Services (Registration) Act 2011, according to the State Administrative Tribunal.
The proceedings, initiated by the Building Services Board, were finalised at the end of March. Essentially, the builder was found to have misled the council, as well as an insurer, as to the estimated value of a Scarborough property's building work, that would involve constructing a three-storey dwelling.
The building licence and home indemnity insurance, that he applied for in December 2007 and November 2007 respectively, were to the value of $850,000. The contract he entered into, however, was $1,799,996.
He then failed to update the local government and insurers of the true value.
Building Commissioner Peter Gow said that being a registered builder is a statement that you have qualifications and experience enough to provide an acceptable service. It also means that the builder is accountable for compliance with building laws and standards.
“Providing building services is an important job – if it’s not done correctly it can put public safety, consumers’ wellbeing and the reputation of the building industry at risk," said Gow.
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Another WA builder fined for misleading council

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The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales, after a two year absence and intense lobbying, has welcomed the recommencement of tenancy cases being heard in Parramatta.
Announced on Friday, Attorney General Greg Smith said that the area would once again host regular sittings, this time of the new super tribunal - the New South Wales Civil and Administrative Tribunal, more commonly referred to as NCAT.
This will happen from 30 June 2014, and will see NCAT sit in Parramatta three days each week as a service for tenants and landlords.
This has been welcomed by the president of the REINSW, Malcolm Gunning, who said that it was needed for Sydney's west. Estimations are currently that up to 40 issues would be heard per day in Parramatta.
“We were very concerned when old Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal (CTTT) stopped operating in Parramatta in early 2012," said Gunning.
“Resolving disputes in Parramatta is a win for everyone in the property industry, especially landlords and tenants who will no longer face the costs and time restraints of having to travel to the Sydney or Penrith Register to have their case heard."
“Our efforts over the last two years to highlight the importance of tribunal hearings in Parramatta have been vindicated by this decision,” he said.
NCAT is the replacement to the CTTT system, that is said to simplify the "complex and bewildering" system, according to Smith.
“The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) will be a one-stop shop for almost all state tribunals, ranging from relatively small bodies such as the Chinese Medicine Tribunal through to the much larger Consumer, Trader &amp; Tenancy Tribunal,” said Smith.
It deals with tenancy disputes, customer complaints, applications for guardianship and a number of other issues.
After operating from 2 January 2014, NCAT conducted 28,000 hearings in 100 days.
Parramatta hearings will be held in a room at the Commonwealth Law Courts building.
“This is great news for Western Sydney and consolidates Parramatta’s position as the state’s largest legal hub outside of Sydney’s CBD," said Smith.
“It follows confirmation that the Court of Criminal Appeal will sit in Parramatta for two weeks in July and August, with the Chief Justice of NSW Tom Bathurst to be among the judges presiding over the hearings.”
Regular Supreme Court sittings may also be a possibility, with Chief Justice Bathurst examining this in the future.
“While the old Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal sat in Parramatta until early 2012, many of the tribunals that have joined NCAT have never conducted regular hearings in Sydney’s west,” said Smith.
“NCAT will provide the people of Western Sydney with quick and cost effective access to justice.
“Tribunal proceedings are typically less formal than a traditional court hearing and often achieve earlier resolutions.”
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