Young first home buyer Elycia didn’t expect to become a property investor when she purchased an off the plan townhouse at Development Victoria’s <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/luma-sunshine-north-247-st-albans-road-sunshine-north-vic-3020">LUMA</a> masterplanned community in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/sunshine-north-vic-3020">Sunshine North</a> several years ago.

“I’d been saving for a while, and it felt like a good time to get into the market,” Elycia said of her purchase.

When she visited the display suite, she could immediately see herself living there, thanks to the variety of thoughtfully designed floorplans.

“I fell in love with how the floorplans were laid out — especially how the living room was positioned quietly away from the kitchen and dining area,” she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=96896]

Having watched her parents build a home from scratch, Elycia was grateful for a simpler path.

“I wanted something with as few choices as possible. Just pick a colour scheme and go,” she said. “You didn’t have to pick bricks, carpet, or underlay — it was all done.”

She selected the light colour scheme and opted for a few upgrades like a premium benchtop, but kept most fixtures standard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=255556]

While COVID lockdowns delayed the delivery of her three-bedroom home near Sunshine Station, Elycia, a teacher, said <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> was transparent throughout the process.

The fact that Development Victoria is operated by the Victorian Government was a big reason I felt confident buying from them,” she said, adding that she was pleased with their clear communication around the delays, which were widely felt across the building industry.

“It felt slow at times, but once I could physically see the building taking shape, it all started to feel real.”

Importantly, the original purchase price remained unchanged — something Elycia appreciated.

“There weren’t any extra costs passed on to us. I’d paid my deposit, and the balance stayed the same," she said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783 project_image_fid=350574]

Elycia had planned to move in and transfer schools once the build was complete in 2025. But life — and opportunity — had other ideas.

“On settlement, I stayed in the home for one night just to take it all in — to feel a sense of accomplishment for doing this by myself,” she said. “It’s now for someone else to enjoy.”

Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of the LUMA masterplan, located between Ginifer and Albion train stations.

The townhouses vary in configuration and design, ranging from one to four bedrooms, and are designed to be all-electric, featuring solar PV, double glazing, and a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating.

A new public park and future links to the broader Sunshine Precinct — set to become a major employment and infrastructure hub — positions LUMA residents to take full advantage of being in a long-term growth corridor with increasing appeal for a wide range of buyers.

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Joel Robinson

First home buyer turned investor: How young teacher Elycia bought her home at LUMA in Sunshine North

Longstanding Sydney developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/northland-group">Northland Group</a> has delivered two of the most confidence-boosting signals in the off-the-plan property market: launching their new development well after construction is underway, and securing Resilience Insurance’s 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Their latest project, Central Quarter in Merrylands, is already well on track to deliver 194 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, along with a retail and commercial podium, by early to mid-2026.

A major bonus for buyers is that Northland is both the developer and builder, meaning they’re responsible for the full delivery and quality control of the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=343727]

Apartments start from just under $600,000, with two-bedrooms priced under $750,000 — making them particularly popular with first home buyers, who benefit from no stamp duty under the NSW Government’s $800,000 threshold.

Each residence features modern finishes, including laminate timber flooring, plush carpeting, and zoned air conditioning in all bedrooms and living areas. Open-plan living and dining areas extend to tiled balconies, maximising natural light and seamless indoor-outdoor living.

Kitchens are equipped with premium Smeg appliances and Villeroy &amp; Boch tapware, while bathrooms offer fully tiled finishes, polished chrome fittings, and soft-close cabinetry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=343730]

Central Quarter is one of the most connected developments in Merrylands — and potentially in all of Western Sydney. Located on Pitt Street, the building sits directly next to Merrylands Station (just 35 minutes by train to the CBD), the Merrylands bus interchange, and across the road from Stockland Merrylands, home to nearly 200 retailers.

Northland is also bringing new amenity to the base of the building, securing major fast food operators, a 24/7 gym, and other local service providers to further activate the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5660 project_image_fid=343732]

The biggest advantage for buyers at Central Quarter is the inclusion of Resilience Insurance’s 10-year Latent Defects Insurance — a major shift in buyer protection and industry transparency.

This structural warranty protects purchasers against significant issues related to structural elements, waterproofing, and essential systems like electrical and plumbing. Unlike traditional strata bonds, Latent Defects Insurance is purchased by the developer, activated at completion, and includes independent inspections throughout the build — helping to identify and rectify problems before handover.

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Apartments start from just under $600,000, with two-bedrooms priced under $750,000 — making them particularly popular with first home buyers, who benefit from no stamp duty under the NSW Government’s $800,000 threshold.

Northland launches Central Quarter, Merrylands' first new apartment development with Resilience 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Local Gold Coast developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> has officially launched the first stage of The Landmark, a $2.5 billion masterplanned, mixed-use development in Mermaid Beach.

With construction now underway, the project marks one of the most ambitious and transformative undertakings in Queensland’s recent history.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134338 project_image_fid=311027]

The Landmark will comprise four towers with a mix of apartments, premium commercial space, fine dining, and a 5-star internationally branded hotel.

The first stage of the project will complete in 2027,&nbsp;through Aniko's own construction arm, Aniko Constructions. 240 apartments are part of the first release.

George Mastrocostas, Founder and Managing Director of Aniko Group, said the project has been years in the making.

"[It]&nbsp;embodies our long-held aspiration to create something truly exceptional,” Mastrocostas said.

“To simultaneously launch and begin construction on <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-landmark-mermaid-beach-14-seaview-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Landmark</a> represents more than just a milestone; it’s a clear and confident statement about our intent and capability."

“Having our in-house construction team build The Landmark allows us to maintain oversight across every detail and progress with absolute confidence, even as the broader industry faces significant headwinds.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134338 project_image_fid=311028]

Located on the corner of Seaview Avenue, the site places residents within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Casino, and the bustling precincts of Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach.

Created in collaboration with acclaimed design firm <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/plus-architecture">Plus Architecture</a>, the residences feature spacious two- and three-bedroom layouts, many with dedicated study nooks, designed to capture panoramic views of the coastline, hinterland, and cityscape.

A suite of amenities will be available exclusively to residents, including a lagoon pool, pickleball court, golf simulator, arcade, Pilates studio, spa, sauna, and a state-of-the-art gym.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134338 project_image_fid=311033]

“We’ve imagined The Landmark as far more than a place to live, it’s a lifestyle precinct that brings together community, wellness, entertainment, and world-class design,” Mastrocostas added.

“We’re proud to contribute something of enduring value to the Gold Coast. This development will generate jobs, elevate expectations, and enrich the urban fabric of our city. It’s a privilege to play a role in shaping that future.”

Construction of stage one is now underway.

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George Mastrocostas, Founder and Managing Director of Aniko Group, said the project has been years in the making

Aniko Group breaks ground on $2.5 billion The Landmark in Mermaid Beach

Searching for your first home can often be a lengthy process — but not for Melburnian Josh Rothwell, who wasn’t even actively looking when he stumbled across the sales office for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/olio-officer-corner-of-bridge-road-and-coxon-street-officer-vic-3809">Olio Officer</a>, a new masterplanned community by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/development-victoria">Development Victoria</a> in Melbourne’s South East Growth Corridor.

“There wasn’t really much of a thought process,” Josh recalled. “I just happened to walk past the display office on my way home from work one day.”

He said he wasn’t armed with a checklist or detailed questions — his curiosity was simply piqued by the location, close to where he grew up.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161917]

“I wasn’t going in with a checklist. It wasn’t even a fact-finding mission. I was probably one of the least likely people to walk in and end up buying. But once I learned more about Olio, it all just started to make sense.”

Josh ended up purchasing a three-bedroom home early in the first stage of the development, well before construction was complete.

“I’ve always preferred new builds over older homes,” he said, adding that the financial structure of buying off the plan suited his situation and steady income.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=161916]

Once he decided he wanted to buy near his family home, Josh broadened his search and visited other masterplanned communities in the area.

However, it was the credibility of the Development Victoria brand that ultimately won him over.

“Knowing that Development Victoria was behind the project gave me a lot of confidence. It’s not just a one-off developer — they stand behind what they build and can’t disappear if something goes wrong.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=84641 project_image_fid=211732]

The location was another key factor. Josh works in Mulgrave, and the connectivity of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/officer-vic-3809">Officer</a> made the commute easy.

“It’s a straight drive down the Monash, or I can jump on a train at Officer Station — which is right across the road — and be in the city.”

Josh bought in 2021, when interest rates were at historic lows. While rates have since increased, he said buying off the plan gave him time to save during the construction period, making the transition manageable when it came time to settle.

“It was a chance encounter, but I’m glad I walked into the sales office that day. The home works perfectly for my lifestyle,” he said. 
Development Victoria is currently delivering Stage Two of Olio. Over 90 homes were completed in Stage One, which also includes a central neighbourhood park. Homes in Stage Two are now selling, with prices starting from under $500,000.

From passing curiosity to first home buyer: Josh’s journey to Olio Officer

Luxury builder-developer GRAYA is continuing its push to deliver high-end apartment living to Brisbane’s inner-ring suburbs.

Led by brothers Rob and Andrew Gray, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is making its mark in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/hamilton-qld-4007">Hamilton</a>, a suburb where the team has already delivered Scorpia and Larq, two of the suburb's most impressive homes.

Their latest vision is in the multi-residential space, with a bold new mixed-use development planned for 63-71 Racecourse Road — a prominent 3,614 sqm site that also incorporates 12 Balowrie Street.

The proposed development, dubbed <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-gallery-63-71-racecourse-road-hamilton-qld-4007">The Gallery</a>, will feature 37 apartments across four storeys — a mix of nine two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences — and will be topped by an 800 sqm rooftop retreat complete with a pool. At ground level, eight boutique retail spaces will activate the street.

<img alt="Galley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43ebd632-e789-4a6b-91b9-2203d9b33888" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-11%20at%2011.23.08%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=TrTRwggvE1dgilrQdIURyaheNPyly8Wm" />

“Occupying a pivotal corner of Hamilton’s Racecourse Road, The Gallery introduces a layered precinct that responds to both place and climate,” said architects bureau^proberts in the planning documents.

“Designed as both a civic anchor and a place of connection, the project reimagines the traditional high street through a contemporary Queensland vernacular — delivering a vibrant, village-like environment that draws from architecture, landscape, and community.”

The development occupies an entire street block at the intersection of Racecourse Road and Kent Street, establishing a strong civic presence while echoing the area’s architectural heritage. Drawing from the timber Queenslanders that populate Hamilton’s hillsides and the masonry buildings at either end of the high street, the design combines broad verandahs, green trellises, and finely crafted stone plinths to create a subtropical character unique to the precinct.

At ground level, laneway-style retail pods inspired by European villages are nestled beneath the concrete undercroft, forming a lushly landscaped market environment, bureau^proberts says. Pedestrian paths wind through the site to a green central courtyard — the heart of the development and a key public-facing element.

“As a catalytic project for Racecourse Road, The Gallery is more than a building — it is a place of activation, engagement, and renewal,” bureau^proberts added.

“Through a design-led approach that fuses subtropical architecture with lush greenery and artisanal retail, it sets a new benchmark for high-quality, community-oriented development in Hamilton.”

<img alt="Galley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fcf4f5b3-69dc-42c7-8cde-b8e95f6935b4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-06-11%20at%2011.23.14%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ENB7sm_MTZZNwWbSQyD_RbP3Pl1GzWIR" />

At the core of The Gallery’s identity is the Stone Arbour — a series of sculpted stone plinths at street level that ground the building in both place and history. These robust elements draw from the corbelling techniques found in nearby heritage fences and public buildings, as well as the Hamilton Tuff stone that defines the area’s geological character.

GRAYA has become one of South East Queensland’s most recognisable luxury developers in the last few years.

While originally focused on bespoke homes in Brisbane’s most prestigious suburbs — including Teneriffe, New Farm, and Paddington — the company has successfully expanded into multi-residential projects in both Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Notable developments include two New Farm projects, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/maison-new-farm-60-moray-street-new-farm">Maison</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/chalk-by-graya-228-230-moray-street-new-farm">Chalk</a>, and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/canvas-bulimba-30-love-street-bulimba-qld-4171">Canvas</a> in Bulimba. They recently launched their first true high-rise,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/enclave-by-graya-118-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach">Enclave</a> in Broadbeach, selling half of the 23 apartments on its launch.

Their other Gold Coast developments include Ripple and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/kloud-palm-beach-154-jefferson-lane-palm-beach">Kloud</a>, both in Palm Beach.

The proposed development, dubbed The Gallery, will feature 37 apartments across four storeys

Lower rates reducing mortgage stress

Pete Wargent

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