Holiday home buyers who have long gravitated to Queenstown’s alpine setting are increasingly looking for low-maintenance apartments that allow them to lock up and leave, while still generating income when they’re away.

For Wendy, who had spent years visiting the Queenstown and Arrowtown region, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>’s Mountain Oak Apartments provided the opportunity to formalise what had previously been a recurring holiday pattern.

“We always had Queenstown in the back of our minds to buy something there as a holiday home,” she says. “We love the Queenstown and Arrowtown area.”

<img alt="From slopes to markets: Mountain Oak connects residents to the best of Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/658d4f_48c3ec1ae5df4a2cab7d23c07c7f51b3~mv2.jpg?VersionId=27K8oQ4ExDN8Yu70VHDa9Olq59XU36m3" />

Time spent visiting her sister-in-law, who owns in Arrowtown, along with regular stays at Millbrook Resort, had already shaped a strong personal connection to the region.&nbsp;

Rather than approaching the purchase purely as an investment play, Wendy’s starting point was lifestyle.

“We were more thinking about ourselves and where we could stay, and then the rental aspect was second.”

Mountain Oak Apartments, located within the masterplanned Remarkables Park precinct in Frankton, aligned with that thinking. The ability to secure the apartment with a deposit and settle on completion made the timing work.

“The fact that we could put a deposit down with the balance on completion was a bonus for us,” she explains.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Wendy selected a two-bedroom, two-bathroom penthouse, a configuration that supports both private use and guest flexibility.

“The two-bedroom, two-bathroom configuration appealed from both a rental viewpoint and for the ability to have friends stay while we are there,” she says.

Across the development, two-bedroom apartments range from 64sqm to 78sqm, with two-bedroom plus flexi options from 71sqm to 75sqm, each with an allocated car park. The flexi layouts introduce an additional space suited to work or hobbies, reflecting demand from buyers who split their time between leisure and remote work.

Apartments include underfloor heating in bathrooms, heat pumps to living areas, and joinery positioned to maximise natural light and mountain outlooks. The Remarkables Park precinct is known for its extended winter sunshine hours, water frontage and open views toward The Remarkables.&nbsp;

Units come in light and dark interior colour schemes.

<img alt="Mountain Oak Apartments draws holiday home buyers to Queenstown" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd685a22-3b95-43a1-87cb-48fdd42bb4ba" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/658d4f_f9f89107c2704ebbbe5a6b36da508cb3~mv2.jpg?VersionId=MigFIEm6b.mrANANwxSmwHvC4RdJUuyR" />

While lifestyle was the primary driver, the fundamentals of the Queenstown market added reassurance.&nbsp;

“Proximity to the airport and tourism being the main attraction all year round,” Wendy says, when asked what stood out from an investment perspective.

Mountain Oak sits just eight kilometres from Queenstown’s CBD and around a two-minute drive from Queenstown Airport.&nbsp;

For Wendy, that airport proximity carries practical value.

“The airport proximity is a bonus, we think that being so close will be an attraction for the convenience side.”

Residents are also a short drive from Coronet Peak, Jack’s Point Golf Course, New World Supermarket, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and the dining, medical, gym, cinema and library amenities within the town centre, as well as the seasonal Remarkables Market.

Importantly, the purchase does not lock owners into a single use. Mountain Oak offers the flexibility to opt for short-term visitor accommodation or longer-term residential rental management, with 365-day visitor accommodation consent in place. Owners can utilise Safari Group’s 24/7 on-site management service or appoint their own provider, and do not need to decide on a strategy immediately.

“It was a bonus that we can rent it out as well as use it for ourselves,” she says.

Additional buying options, including furniture packages and storage units available for purchase within the building, further support a lock-and-leave model suited to interstate and overseas owners.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Mountain Oak Apartments comprises 141 residences, ranging from one-bedroom configurations through to larger apartments and penthouses. One-bedroom apartments are currently priced from NZ$639,000, with three-bedroom options from NZ$1,299,000.

With 365-day visitor accommodation consent, the development is structured to respond to Queenstown’s established four-season tourism economy, spanning winter ski traffic and summer hiking, cycling, golf and lake-based activity.

Although Wendy acknowledges the strength of rental demand, her approach remains long term.

“We’re not planning to sell it anytime soon, so we are keen to hang on to it, but the passive income will be a bonus.”

Confidence in the developer also influenced her decision. Before proceeding, Wendy sought feedback within the local building community.

“We asked around and Safari Group had a good reputation,” she says.

Safari Group has delivered more than 2,000 hotel units and residential apartments across over 18 developments nationwide, with more than 25 years’ experience in the sector.

With completion anticipated by mid-2027, Mountain Oak is attracting a cross-section of buyers, from yield-focused investors to lifestyle purchasers seeking a foothold in one of New Zealand’s most tightly held alpine markets.

For Wendy, it represents both a future holiday base and a long-term asset within Queenstown’s year-round tourism economy.

Joel Robinson

How Mountain Oak Apartments draws holiday home buyers to Queenstown

Eduard Litver's Capitel Group is seeking to redevelop Chatswood's Mandarin Centre in the heart of the burgeoning suburb.

Capitel Group, in a joint venture with Metis Group, has filed a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to demolish the Mandarin Centre and construct a 32-storey tower designed by Skidmore, Owings &amp; Merrill (SOM) with 325 apartments.

The 3,524 sqm site at 61A-65 Albert Avenue will also home extensive retail amenity, both at street-level and across a four-level podium.

<img alt="First look: Metis and Capitel unveil $1.2bn+ plan to redevelop Chatswood’s Mandarin Centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="905976ea-08cd-409f-8a4c-33a3fb8bf351" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/1771923441002.png?VersionId=f_xI2ejpxQvEm4fPqGji01RY9_AWVY6O" />

In its early stage Design Report submitted to the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority, SOM describes the ambition for the project as one that “aims to revitalise and reactivate an important corner of the Chatswood CBD.”

The architects note that the existing shopping centre “has a lack of vertical connection between its five levels of retail and a cumbersome pedestrian access from the street to the second-level transit connection,” framing the redevelopment as an opportunity to reconfigure circulation and better integrate with surrounding transport infrastructure.

The design adopts a single tower configuration, shaped through early testing to respond to neighbouring buildings and key public spaces.

Retail activation is concentrated at ground and lower podium levels, with a focus on food and beverage, lifestyle and wellness tenancies. The intent is to create a more permeable ground plane and improve connections between Albert Avenue, Victor Street and the Chatswood transport interchange, located within walking distance of the site.

<img alt="First look: Metis and Capitel unveil $1.2bn+ plan to redevelop Chatswood’s Mandarin Centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1e0c8cb-ee9b-41c1-97ac-0455c043b9e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/1771923442914.png?VersionId=y.Kbo.9bzLIbOabeygYts8Uf9imI.Dqh" />

The site occupies a prominent position on the southern edge of the Chatswood CBD core, bounded by Albert Avenue and Victor Street. It sits near the rail and metro interchange and within close proximity to Chatswood Chase, Westfield Chatswood, Chatswood Oval and a range of commercial office towers and residential buildings.

Chatswood has been one, and continues to be, of the most popular suburbs for developers in recent years. The most recent tower to launch is Hyecorp's Celine on Archer Street, which followed The Anderson by Changfa and Huirong.

Soon to launch is Coronation's Archer &amp; Albert nearby the new proposal.

Chatswood boom continues with Capitel and Metis’s $1.2 billion Mandarin Centre redevelopment

Apartment development applications continue to tally up in Rose Bay following the NSW Gov's 2025 update to the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy.

&nbsp;

Some $200 million worth of developments were filed in the space of four weeks at the back end of last year, with the likes of Fyve, HSN, Luxcon and Fortis all seeking to creating new apartment buildings.

The latest plans are for an amalgamated 3,105 sqm site across Conway Avenue, Fernleigh Avenue, and Carlisle Street. Developer Mathieson Property is planning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dian-2-6-conway-avenue-rose-bay-nsw-2029">Dian</a>, 70 apartments across a new eight-storey building, perched on a ridgeline within walking distance of Rose Bay Town Centre.

The State Significant Development Application (SSDA), includes one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom configurations. Over 15 per cent will be dedicated as affordable, as per the NSW Government's push for affordable housing. The 17 apartments will be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years following completion of the building.

<img alt="First Look: Mathieson Property unveils eight-storey infill housing proposal ‘Dian’ in Rose Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f99c21d9-e69d-4a23-ae35-3244cfa0b4ae" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Rose%20Bay%20site_0.png?VersionId=67KSZfecJ3fvn1ewo9xxKrneRT.Nsjwd" />

MHNDU has designed the building around three central cores, with lower-level apartments arranged to maximise corner balconies and cross-ventilation. Upper levels are configured with dual north–south aspects to capture harbour views and solar access.

Private open space is a key feature of the scheme, with generous balconies and terraces throughout. Five ground-floor apartments would include private pools, while one upper-level residence will feature a rooftop terrace and pool. A communal room and adjoining landscaped outdoor terraces provide shared open space for residents.

<img alt="First Look: Mathieson Property unveils eight-storey infill housing proposal ‘Dian’ in Rose Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dd2e275f-c270-4eb1-9a02-2b573b8eb540" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Rose%20Bay%20front_0.png?VersionId=Us5jNEG6iLFLLMfQSzVBVdILYobBj.g9" />

The site sits around 365 metres walking distance of Rose Bay Town Centre and around 312 metres from regular bus services on New South Head Road, meeting the accessible area criteria under the Housing SEPP.

In early 2025, the NSW Government implemented significant changes to its Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, altering planning controls to allow greater density for new apartment projects within an 800-metre walking distance of stations and town centres in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/woollahra-nsw-2025">Woollahra</a>&nbsp;Local Government Area, overriding existing local controls. Buildings are now permitted to rise up to six storeys within 400 metres of a station or centre, or eight storeys where affordable housing is incorporated, and up to four storeys within the 401 to 800 metre radius, which can increase to six storeys with affordable housing.

Mathieson Property unveils Dian Rose Bay apartment development

Lower North Shore developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hyecorp-property-group">Hyecorp</a> is preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celine-chatswood-37-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">Celine</a>, its new apartment development in Chatswood.

Set within a blue ribbon location on Archer Street, Celine will rise on a quiet, tree-lined enclave on the edge of the South Chatswood Heritage Conservation Area, a short walk from the connectivity which Chatswood is famous for.

Celine will deliver 122 one, two, three, and four-bedroom residences, designed to accommodate a broad range of buyers, from owner-occupiers to investors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362610]

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fuse-architecture-0">Fuse Architects</a>, the 29-storey tower has been shaped to respond to its Archer Street setting, with a defined podium and slender upper levels.&nbsp;

The building incorporates a two-storey residential lobby at the corner, double-height retail fronting Bertram Street, food and beverage tenancies along a through-site link, and two levels of commercial office space.&nbsp;

A landscaped pedestrian connection between Archer and Bertram streets will provide a publicly accessible link through the site, extending activity at ground level beyond the building footprint.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362606]

Inside, Hyecorp is emphasising scale and flexibility. Most residences will incorporate multipurpose rooms, allowing buyers to configure additional living, study or guest space within their floorplan.&nbsp;

Kitchens have been designed with proportions more commonly associated with standalone homes, complemented by Gaggenau and Miele appliances, integrated refrigeration, Miele laundry appliances, Taj Mahal stone and bronze tapware.&nbsp;

Buyers will also have the option to tailor aspects of their home through the developer’s “Live Your Way” personalisation service.

Resident amenity will include an outdoor pool, gym and sauna, as well as barbecue and lounge areas designed for shared use. Upper levels are oriented to capture eastern outlooks towards the Sydney CBD and surrounding greenery.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362633]

The location places future residents within 800 metres of Chatswood Interchange, providing access to metro and rail services, and within walking distance of Westfield, Chatswood Chase and the Chatswood Concourse. Parks including Chatswood Park and Beauchamp Park are nearby, along with a cluster of schools and private hospitals.

Celine continues Hyecorp’s focus on the Lower North Shore. The Australian, family-owned developer has been operating locally for more than 30 years, with recent projects including Audrey in St Leonards, now nearing completion, and Juliet in Roseville. With registrations expected to open soon, Celine represents the group’s latest addition to the Chatswood apartment market.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149594]

Hyecorp unveils Celine, a striking new apartment tower in the heart of Chatswood

International development company <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/spg-land">SPG Land</a> has kicked off construction of the $1.5 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/paradiso-place-surfers-paradise-103-ferny-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Paradiso Place</a>, one of the highest value developments to get underway on the Gold Coast in more than a decade.

Located on a 1.15ha site stretching from Surfers Paradise Boulevard to Ferny Avenue, Paradiso Place, when completed, will deliver 845 residences across three residential towers. &nbsp;

Paradiso Place has been several years in planning by SPG, which has now pushed the green light on construction to meet pent-up demand from investors and owner occupiers.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=185858]

The move follows minor amendments to the original design to cater to buyer demand, including the provision of more premium residential amenity, including private dining, lounge and events spaces for residents to entertain guests.

The three towers, comprising 41, 40 and 44 levels, will bring to the market 845 apartments with each tower boasting its own podium level interconnected skybridge to create a unique elevated ‘beachside village’ for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=362500]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed development will bring a broad range of residences to the market, most offering ocean views and all enjoying five-star hotel amenities with world-class facilities and the convenience ground level retail precinct.

&nbsp;

Construction of Paradiso Place has been made possible by SPG’s newly established SPG Built division partnered with experienced project management group Eastview Australia, a company that has supported the development of a raft of major projects on the Gold Coast over the past two decades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=362499]

“It’s a very exciting time for Paradiso Place as we start construction,” said SPG Land Chairman David Wang.

“We have spent our energy refreshing design and assembling the best team and waiting for what we believe is the right time to start construction on one of the most exciting mixed-use developments to proceed on the Gold Coast since Oracle in Broadbeach and Circle on Cavill in Surfers Paradise. &nbsp;

“The local and interstate downsizer market is getting stronger, and we see Paradiso Place as the right project for our times right now. Our company has the capacity to deliver large-scale projects, and we are thrilled to be bringing this vision to reality.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=185861]

SPG Invest, a company founded in Australia in 1998 with a focus on high-end real estate and premium hospitality assets, has delivered 56 projects in the Asia-Pacific region over the past twenty-five years, including The Peninsula Hotel Shanghai and the Global 188 twin-tower project in Suzhou and Cambridge Residences at Robina.

Paradiso Place will deliver a range of new apartments with two-, three- and four-bedroom layouts, as well as a collection of sub-penthouse and penthouse apartments across three levels. Prices start from $950,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=185852]

“We have a very strong vision for Paradiso Place – we are creating a unique beachside residential community where contemporary design &amp; architecture and luxury materials combine with five star residents’ amenities and the convenience of a premium retail precinct on the ground floor”, said SPG Land CEO Dr Ying Rao&nbsp;

“We are confident that the community will recognise that this is more than just another development. Paradiso Place will bring a much-needed retail precinct and lifestyle hub to northern Surfers Paradise with premium retail, lifestyle and food and beverage options,” Said Dr Rao&nbsp;

“The retail precinct is critical to enhancing the lifestyle amenity for residents and guests, so SPG will retain control of this precinct to curate a premium retail offering that will support this thriving new community.

“SPG will also retain short-term holiday letting to control premium and luxury outcomes in line with our vision.”

Construction of Stage 1 Paradiso Place is expected to be completed by end of 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106566]

Construction commences on $1.5 billion Paradiso Place development in Surfers Paradise

Value

Townhouses provide an affordable alternative to freestanding homes in capital cities, ideal for families, investors and young professionals.&nbsp;

Despite Brisbane&#39;s ban on new townhouse developments in low-density residential suburbs, approved&nbsp;in 2019, demand for these property&#39;s still exist. This provides&nbsp;great investment potential&nbsp;for those interested in securing an affordable townhouse in Brisbane&#39;s outer suburbs.&nbsp;

Urban takes a look at six of Brisbane&#39;s best value townhouses on the market right now.&nbsp;

1. <a href="/buildings/gardenia-7-franco-place-bridgeman-downs">Gardenia</a>, Bridgeman Downs 
Address: 249 Gardenia Place, Bridgeman Downs QLD 4035 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $489,999

<a href="/buildings/gardenia-7-franco-place-bridgeman-downs"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/gardenia1.jpg?itok=Ch2rBapZ" style="width: 580px; height: 435px;" /></a>

Comprising 38 contemporary townhomes, Gardenia estate combines quality finishes and neutral tones to create a modern atmosphere. Developed in the leafy green surrounds of Bridgeman Downs, the stylish turn-key homes offer great value for investors and owner-occupiers alike.

Bridgeman Downs is one of Brisbane North&rsquo;s most sought-after suburbs, known for its open, green spaces and close proximity to the Brisbane CBD, Chermside shopping centre and Prince Charles Hospital.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29167]

2. <a href="/buildings/sunset-on-bramble-15-bramble-street-woody-point?last_source_news_article_id=89594&amp;ref=news_related_project">Sunset on Bramble</a>, Woody Point 
Address: 15 Bramble Street, Woody Point QLD 4019 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $525,000

Sunset on Bramble offers contemporary beachside living in an established neighbourhood. Situated in Woody Point, potential buyers will be wowed by the relaxed seaside living and charming eateries that dot the coastal suburb.

The development boasts open-plan living, light-filled spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows. Ensuring convenience, these townhomes are located only 30 minutes to the Brisbane CBD, 25 minutes to the Brisbane Airport and under an hour to the Sunshine Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29177]

3. <a href="/new-townhouses/parkvista-5-kingsdale-avenue-thornlands">Parkvista</a>, Thornlands 
Address: Kingsdale Avenue, Thornlands QLD 4164 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $417,000

<a href="/new-townhouses/parkvista-5-kingsdale-avenue-thornlands"><img alt="" height="1440" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/parkvista.jpg" width="3200" /></a>

Thornlands&rsquo; latest two-staged project, Parkvista, could potentially be ideal for families hoping to find an inviting and friendly community. The stylish, turn-key townhomes offer community living, complete with pool, green spaces and sheltered seating areas.

Over 2.2 hectares of parklands are adjacent to the community, with integrated playgrounds and brand-new community childcare centre only a few minutes&rsquo; walk away. The residences boast tasteful interior design, energy efficient appliances and low-maintenance landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28075]

4. <a href="/buildings/clearwater-junction-clearwater-street-bethania?last_source_news_article_id=89594&amp;ref=news_related_project">Clearwater Junction</a>, Bethania 
Address: Clearwater street, Bethania QLD 4205 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $335,000

<a href="/buildings/clearwater-junction-clearwater-street-bethania"><img alt="" height="900" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/bethania.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

South of Brisbane&rsquo;s CBD within the Logan City region sits the affordable Clearwater Junction development. The boutique estate, a collection of 61 three-bedroom townhouses, has been developed with timeless design in mind.

Offering a comfortable new home located nearby Logan entertainment precinct, the project offers open-plan living, modern kitchen and spacious bedrooms for young professions, families or investors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29171]

5. <a href="/buildings/metro-on-brushwood-9-11-wattlebird-street-mango-hill?last_source_news_article_id=89594&amp;ref=news_related_project">Metro on Brushwood</a>, Mango Hill 
Address: 9-11 Wattlebird Street, Mango Hill QLD 4509 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $360,000

<a href="/buildings/metro-on-brushwood-9-11-wattlebird-street-mango-hill"><img alt="" height="1440" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/parkvista.jpg" width="3200" /></a>

Offering a total of 79 townhomes with a mix of three and four-bedroom configurations, Metro on Brushwood presents high standard living at great value. The development provides an amazing opportunity for young families or those looking to add to their investment portfolio.

Metro on Brushwood features an onsite manager, entertainment area and a gym, as well as a fully-fenced private courtyard and modern kitchen.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29176]

6. <a href="/buildings/fulcher-lane-102-fulcher-road-red-hill">Fulcher Lane</a>, Red Hill 
Address: 102 Fulcher Road, Red Hill QLD 4059 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $869,000

<a href="/buildings/fulcher-lane-102-fulcher-road-red-hill"><img alt="" height="533" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/fulcher_.jpg" width="800" /></a>

Situated in Brisbane&rsquo;s inner-north, Fulcher Lane features 20 three-bedroom, three-bathroom townhouses. The homes&rsquo; architecture includes a &lsquo;Queenslander&rsquo; style exterior, to ensure they blend in well with the surrounding established homes.

The luxury residences are expected to reach completion later this year, offering open-plan living, multi-purpose room, and the choice to tailor the home to a family&rsquo;s individual needs. This includes adding a private lift, pool, or altering floor-plan configurations in some areas of the home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29185]

Urban takes a look at six of Brisbane's best value townhouses on the market right now

max.kwok_55688

6 of Brisbane’s best value townhomes on the market

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
Nationally, from the market peak to the end of May ’19, the most affordable quarter has seen values fall by -1.4%, the middle of the market has seen values fall -6.6% and the top quarter has fallen by -11.6%.
The -1.4% fall across the lower quartile is the largest since Sep-18, the -6.6% fall across the middle of the market is slightly down on the previous month while the -11.6% fall across the top quartile is the second consecutive month in which falls have slowed and the smallest annual decline since Dec-18.
Combined capital cities
Low quartile values are -5.1% lower over the year, middle market values have fallen -8.3% and top quartile is -12.4% lower. The -5.1% fall is the largest since September 2008 and the -12.4% fall is the smallest since December 2018.
Combined regional markets
Values across the most affordable quarter of properties are -1.2% lower compared to a -1.6% fall across the middle of the market and a 6.7% fall across the top quartile (the largest fall since January 2012).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%201.JPG" alt="">
Sydney
The low quartile has recorded a value fall of -2.0% (smallest fall since Oct-18) compared to -11.9% across the middle of the market (smallest fall since Jan-19) and -12.5% across the top quartile (smallest fall since Nov-18).
Regional NSW Values across the most affordable quarter of properties are 0.6% lower (slowest growth since Nov-18), the middle of the market has recorded falls of -4.6% and the top quartile has recorded falls of -9.0%.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%202.JPG" alt="">
Melbourne
The -13.8% fall across the most expensive quarter of dwellings is the smallest since Nov-18 while the middle of the market has seen values fall -10.1% (smallest fall since Jan-19) and the most affordable quarter has recorded a value fall of -0.9% (smallest fall since Dec-18).
Regional Vic
The most affordable quarter of properties have increased in value by 0.8% while the middle of the market has increased by 1.2% (slowest rate of growth since Sep-16) and the top quartile has fallen by -6.4% (the largest fall since Feb12).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%203.JPG" alt="">
Brisbane
Values have fallen by -0.7% across the most affordable quarter of dwellings compared to a -3.3% fall across the middle of the market (largest fall since Feb-12) and a -6.2% fall across the most expensive quarter of properties (largest fall since Jan-12).
Regional Qld
The most expensive quarter of dwellings fell - 3.5% compared to a 0.7% fall across the middle of the market and a -0.3% fall across the most affordable quarter of the market.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%204.JPG" alt="">
Adelaide
The most affordable quarter of dwellings have recorded growth of 0.9% (strongest growth since May-18) while the middle of the market has recorded a 0.3% increase and the top quarter of properties have recorded a fall of -2.7%, their largest fall since Jan-13.
Regional SA
The most affordable quarter of properties have increased by 0.3% over the past year (the strongest growth since Aug-18) compared to a 3.7% increase across the middle of the market and a 0.6% increase across the most affordable quarter of properties.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%205.JPG" alt="">
Perth
Values across the most affordable quarter of properties are -2.4% lower over the year compared to an -8.9% fall across the middle of the market and an -11.6% fall across the most expensive quarter of properties.
Regional WA
The most affordable quarter of the market recorded a decline in values of -1.8% compared to -7.5% across the middle of the market and a -13.1% fall across the most expensive quarter, the largest fall since Jan-15.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%206.JPG" alt="">
Hobart
The most affordable quarter of properties recorded a value increase of 4.6% over the year (the slowest rate of growth since Jun-16) compared to a 0.6% increase across the middle of the market (slowest growth since Jun-16) and a -0.5% fall across the most expensive properties (largest fall since Feb-15).
Regional Tas
The most affordable quarter of properties recorded an 8.8% annual increase (strongest growth since Nov-18) while the middle of the market recorded growth of 3.8% and the most expensive quarter recorded 3.0% growth over the year.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%207.JPG" alt="">
Darwin
The most expensive quarter of properties across the city have fallen in value by -16.8% over the past year (largest fall since May-16) compared to a -17.0% fall across the middle of the market (largest fall on record) and a -14.6% fall across the most affordable quarter of the market (largest fall since Nov-18).
Regional NT The most affordable quarter of properties have recorded an increase of 11.3% over the past year, their largest increase since Apr-17 while the middle of the market has seen values rise 1.9% and the most expensive quarter of properties have fallen by -0.2%.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%208.JPG" alt="">
Canberra
The most expensive quarter of properties have recorded no change in value over the past year while the middle of the market has recorded growth of 0.7% (slowest growth since Aug-16) and the most affordable quarter has recorded value growth of 1.3% (slowest growth since Jun-16).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/13/Declining%20Values%209.JPG" alt="">
Over the past year, most capital cities and regional markets have been recording value declines. While values are broadly continuing to fall, the rate of these falls on a monthly basis has been slowing.
After having seen much larger corrections than the other two segments (following a larger growth phase), the most expensive segment of the market is seeing its rate of decline slow.
This is a trend that has played out before whereby premium housing values fall the fastest initially but also sees the falls cease earlier than other market segments.
It is still early days but with the housing market expected to trough in late 2019, the premium housing sector may find a floor first and start to show some level of recovery before the other segments.
CAMERON KUSHER  is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic
Kusher regularly posts on the <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/taxonomy/corelogic-people/cameron-kusher" target="_blank">CoreLogic website</a>.
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Rate of value decline on the most expensive properties slowing: Cameron Kusher

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JPMorgan has suggested the McGrath estate agency had a $253 million to $324 million enterprise value, according to research sent to fund managers, and seen by the Australian Financial Review.
The investment bank's multiples-based valuation applied an 8 times to 10 times range to pro-forma FY16 EBITDA of $31 million.
The report comes after Bell Potter put a $266 million to $315 million enterprise value on the business, as revealed by the authorative AFR Street Talk column on Monday. 
JPMorgan's told clients McGrath was one of the leading real estate services brands in Australia with 7.2% market share in New South Wales, 5.4% in the Australian Capital Territory and an emerging 1.3% presence in Queensland. 
It argued McGrath had a premium brand, business model and culture to attract and retain talent. 
JPMorgan forecast McGrath to record $141 million revenue in the 2016 financial year, on a proforma basis, and $18.2 million net profit. 
The broker compared McGrath to companies including the UK's largest real estate services group Countrywide, Foxtons Group and United States based Realogy and RE/MAX. 
McGrath Limited has recently applied for the McGrath Operations Limited name with ASIC as well as share paperwork lodged with authorities earlier this month.
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McGrath's real estate group is seeking to come to stockmarket with 67 company and franchise offices, having grown from 22 in the 2009 financial year. 
McGrath agreed to buy 10 Sydney offices controlled by <a href="/news/mcgrath-ltd-acquire-shane-smollens-10-sydney-franchise-offices">Shane Smollen earlier this month</a>.
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The AFR suggested that fund managers will be seeking to test the reliability of McGrath's forecasts given the cooling in the Sydney property market, but noted the company has been able to consistently grow profits through various property cycles.
McGrath had a property sales volume of 16 per cent a year, compounded, in the five years to 2015, which included periods of downturn in the Sydney market.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

McGrath given $253 million to $324 value by JP Morgan

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Combined capital city home values went up 9.8% in the 2014-15 financial year, with Sydney having the strongest capital growth followed by Melbourne.
The latest CoreLogic RP Data Home Value Index found combined capital city home values increased by 43.1% between December 2008 and June 2015.
CoreLogic RP Data researcher Cameron Kusher said since the end of 2008, value growth in Sydney and Melbourne has stood head and shoulders above all other cities.
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“Over the past three years we’ve seen further growth in home values on the back of a renewed interest rate cutting cycle," Mr Kusher said.
"Since the financial crisis we’ve seen residential unit construction surge to record high levels… despite more units being built, most buyers still show a preference for a detached house.
"As a result of this trend, Sydney and Melbourne are the strongest housing markets for capital growth and we expect this to continue over the coming financial year.” 
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Capital city home values up 9.8% in FY15: CoreLogic RP Data

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The valuation firm, Herron Todd White has issued its latest property clock - a simple broad brush means to suggest where property markets are - and what direction prices are moving in.
The valuation firm has included capital and regional cities on the property clock for house price direction.
 To view the property clock in full, <a href="/images/2015/07/13/new_clock.jpg" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Dubbo, Newcastle and Gippsland at peak pricing in July HTW property clock

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Both Sydney and Melbourne have had comfortable dwelling value increases over the financial year, with Sydney increasing by 16.2% and Melbourne 10.2%.
But Canberra's growth put it in third place, replacing Darwin.
According to the CoreLogic June RP Data Hedonic Home Value Index, every other capital city grew less than 5%, with dwelling values are down over the year in Darwin (-2.9%) and Perth (-0.9 %). 
The median price for a home in Sydney is $900,000, with the Melbourne median at $615,000, based on sales during the past quarter.
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Capital Growth to June 30
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Canberra overtakes Darwin to be third most expensive capial city: CoreLogic RP Data

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Is new supply of apartment catching up with demand?
Decline in unit values was the most marked price trend in May, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
There was a 2.8% decline in May for Sydney apartments to a $648,000 median and a 2.5% decline for Melbourne apartments to a $480,000 median.
Melbourne house values are now 9.8% higher over the year compared with a 2.9% rise in unit values.
Every other capital city is seeing a similar, though not as marked, trend with the capital gain for houses recorded at a higher rate compared with the unit market.
“The higher supply levels are likely to be a primary reason why unit values are rising at a much slower pace than house values in Sydney and Melbourne," according to CoreLogic RP Data head of research, Tim Lawless.
"The pace of growth in unit values across Sydney is about half that being recorded across the detached housing sector, with house values up 16.4% (to $880,000) over the year compared with an 8.8% rise in unit values.” Melbourne house median sits at $620,200.
Overall dwelling price growth stalled in May with national dwelling values down 0.9% over the month, Tim Lawless said.
But the weaker reading across the May results is likely to be short-lived, he says, noting the May indices results marked the three year anniversary for the current growth cycle which commenced at the end of May 2012.
Since that time, Mr Lawless noted that capital city dwelling values have increased by 24.2% with Sydney values rising a significant 39.3 per cent since values bottomed out in May 2012.
Melbourne dwelling values have seen the second highest rate of growth over the current cycle, increasing by 22.4% while in Darwin, values are 18.3% higher.
Perth values are up 13.2% followed by Brisbane at 10.6%, Adelaide at 9.9%, Canberra with a growth rate of 8.3% over the cycle, and Hobart where values are 7.7% higher over the cycle to date.
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Highlights over the three months to May 2015
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<li>Best performing capital city: Sydney +3.3% </li>
<li>Weakest performing capital city: Hobart -0.9% </li>
<li>Highest rental yields: Darwin houses with gross rental yield of 5.6% and Darwin Units at 5.8%</li>
<li>Lowest rental yields: Melbourne houses with gross rental yield of 3.2% and Melbourne units at 4.3%</li>
<li>Most expensive city: Sydney with a median dwelling price of $752,000</li>
<li>Most affordable city: Hobart with a median dwelling price of $328,000</li>
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Capital city rental yields remained steady over the month with the typical capital city rental dwelling attracting a gross yield of 3.7%, however yields have compressed substantially over the growth cycle to date.
“Over the past three years, dwelling values have risen more than three times as fast as rents," Tim Lawless said.
"Dwelling values are 24.2%higher across the combined capitals over the past three years while weekly rents have risen by only 7.2%.
"The net result is that gross rental yields have been compressed from 4.3% back in 2012 to the current average gross yield of 3.7% across the combined capital city index,” he said.
Rental yields are currently the lowest in Melbourne - a typical house is returning a gross yield of 3.2% while units are providing a higher gross yield, averaging 4.3%. Sydney follows closely behind, recording a gross yield of 3.4% for houses and 4.5% for units.
“If the current trend continues, it won’t be long before Sydney overtakes Melbourne as the lowest yielding city," Tim Lawless said.
"Sydney yields have slipped by 41 basis points over the past twelve months compared with Melbourne where the gross rental yield is 22 basis points lower.”
“Clearly, investors are not bothered by the low rental yields that are currently available with housing finance data showing investors comprise a record 51 of the value of new home loan originations, “ Mr Lawless said.
 
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