The <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> has long been one of Australia’s most popular holiday destinations. It had sun, sand, surf, and Surfers Paradise, the epicentre of the action. It was lined with skyscrapers that rivalled anywhere in the southern hemisphere for height. Even today, there’s nowhere in Australia, and arguably the world, with towers of that scale so close to the sand.

Apartments were made for investors and holidaymakers who would snap them up every weekend all year round. It was an arrangement that suited everyone. But with that arrangement came a moniker. The Gold Coast became a ‘boom-bust market’. For the growth the market would see, there were equal busts.

Caitlin Rosenboom, Head of Projects for Ray White on the Gold Coast, says the Gold Coast property markets were heavily influenced by external factors it essentially couldn’t control.

“Because the Gold Coast was traditionally always a holiday destination, the type of apartment built was for that,” Rosenboom says. “But when the economy wobbled, like it has at certain points over the last few decades—such as during the GFC—the Gold Coast market was impacted more than anywhere else. The first thing to go in an economic downturn is the secondary residence, and proportionally, the Gold Coast was well skewed toward those properties.”

Rosenboom said it then became a fight to the bottom. “Once one person, whose hand was forced to sell, sold, then it reset prices in a negative way. Then there would be floods of listings and little demand, which put incredible downward pressure on pricing.”

Indeed, during the GFC, data from Ray White showed house prices across the Gold Coast region declined by around nine per cent across 2010 and 2011 combined, just a little more than the eight per cent for units. But looking more granularly, the picture was a bit different.

Since then, however, the Gold Coast has truly rid itself of its so-called boom-bust reputation. 
From the start of 2012 to the end of 2020, house values rose by over 56 per cent, showing growth in every calendar year apart from 2018, when prices contracted by just one per cent. It was the same story for units over the same period, albeit with slightly more modest 30 per cent growth, and also with a minor one per cent dip in 2012, which houses didn’t experience.

“The Gold Coast has really matured as a region over the last decade,” Rosenboom said on the property market growth.

“It became more and more attractive as a place not only to holiday but to live. Better, larger apartments were being built, alongside an increased level of infrastructure upgrades and investment.”

The Gold Coast was certainly a region on the up and up. However, uncertainty reigned once again in 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the country, locking both international and state borders.

The fear of another economic downturn, much like the GFC, could have put the Gold Coast in a problematic position, with a lack of tourism driving the economy. In the end, it was the opposite.

The way the Queensland Government handled the pandemic was broadcast around the country. Gold Coast locals were still on the waves, enjoying coffee on the beach, and living life, while Melburnians weren’t allowed out of their houses, and Sydneysiders weren’t much better off. 
The race was on for those southern capital city dwellers to rush to the Gold Coast.

“The pandemic changed everything,” Rosenboom said. “A lot of people who lived in Sydney and Melbourne made the move for what they considered almost to be a secondment to another part of Australia. The vast majority hadn’t been to the Gold Coast before, or not since they were kids coming on holiday. When they realised how far the Gold Coast had come, no longer just a big holiday resort, most never left.”

Over the 12 months from June 2022 to June 2023, the Gold Coast gained nearly 20,000 people, accounting for 13 per cent of the migration to the whole of Queensland. The property market became one of the best-performing in the country as the demand v supply equation was heavily skewed toward the demand side. New apartment developments that came to market over 2021 and 2022 would spend less than a few weeks online before being sold out. Prices were both unrealistic and realistic at the same time.

Then came another potential bump in the road. The borders reopened, and employees had to show their face in the office, albeit just a few days a week. Would this be the start of the decline the Gold Coast property market hadn’t felt in a decade? In short, no. No, it wasn’t.

Much to the surprise of most in the property industry, growth continued. Another stellar growth cycle in 2023 and 2024 saw house prices rise by 57 per cent in the four years to December 2024, the same growth they saw in double the time up to 2024. Units boomed by 57 per cent too over the four years to the end of 2024, almost double the 30 per cent in the eight years prior.

“The Gold Coast is no longer a holiday destination but a lifestyle destination,” Rosenboom said. 
“The pandemic shone a light on everything locals already loved about the Gold Coast. We have gone from being dominated by holiday lets to an owner-occupier-driven market due to the increased infrastructure, medical facilities, industry, and employment opportunities.”

Rosenboom has seen a mix of buyers at ARC Residences, the luxury tower on Garfield Terrace, considered the best street in Surfers Paradise, given it’s the only one that faces the beach.

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A few Sydneysiders, locals from the northern Gold Coast suburbs like Hope Island and Helensvale, as well as a couple of overseas buyers, have all staked their claim in the building of just 37 half- and full-floor apartments with an oceanfront pool, gym with yoga room and infrared sauna, and a cinema, along with a suite of other amenities that are more common in a luxury hotel.

Rosenboom believes there’s no reason why the Gold Coast market should take a step back at all. “We’re now in an interest rate environment where they are only going down and not up, which tends to fuel further increases in price.”

All of the pent-up demand is even without taking into account the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics, and the G:LINK light rail extends all the way down to the airport and Coolangatta, essentially connecting the whole of the Gold Coast. If the response to the light rail is anything like Sydney’s, then values are in for one hell of a ride.

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Ray White Senior Economist Nerida Conisbee echoed Rosenboom’s sentiment, suggesting the economic stability the Gold Coast now has, with the shortness in supply, scarcity of land, and in particular, the rapid expansion of its population. 
 
“The influx of nearly 20,000 new residents in a single year is a testament to the Gold Coast's appeal, offering a combination of lifestyle, employment opportunities, and relative affordability compared to other major Australian cities,” Conisbee says, adding, however, that this huge increase in population is putting pressure on the housing market.

“Despite the positive outlook, the Gold Coast faces significant challenges in accommodating its projected growth. The shortage of land means that the city will need to embrace higher-density development to house its expanding population.”

Joel Robinson

“A lifestyle destination rather than a holiday destination” Why the Gold Coast is now more boom than bust

South East Queensland Developers Keylin and Kinstone Group have captured the attention of homebuyers on the northern end of the Gold Coast with their standout waterside masterplan, Lakeside Serenity 4212.

The joint venture partners had a vision for <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-townhouses/serenity-lakeside-villas-helensvale-6-lake-serenity-boulevard-helensvale-qld-4212">Lakeside Serenity 4212</a>, a 65-hectare masterplan on the shores of Coombabah Lake, to become one of the best waterfront communities in the Gold Coast.

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Since the first launch of homes in 2020, there have been consistent stage sellouts, as well as a 2023 UDIA Queensland Award for Excellence in Boutique Development.

Tony Ashwin has been selling the homes in the masterplan since its inception. He says the masterplan fills a void where there is a real scarcity of waterfront land.

“The northern suburbs of the Gold Coast are in extremely high demand,” Ashwin says, highlighting that Helensvale is central to this growth.

“It’s the only Gold Coast suburb with both heavy and light rail connections, offering residents easy access to Brisbane and the rest of the Gold Coast.”

Having sold out the Serenity Waters waterfront lots and the Serenity Green townhouse community, Keylin and Kinstone Group have now released the next stage of development.

The latest offering, Lakeside Serenity 4212 Waterfront Villas, includes just 16 exclusive, absolute waterfront villas. Each villa faces north, providing direct access to the water and a private pontoon, with the Lake Serenity lock system offering direct access to the Broadwater.

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Designed by MAS Architecture, the villas feature open-plan living spaces, soaring ceilings, floating staircases, and strategically placed windows that enhance the sense of space while maximizing natural light and uninterrupted lake views.

Each villa has four bedrooms, two living areas, and a double garage. The kitchens serve as the centerpiece, with premium natural stone benchtops, large island benches, butler’s pantries, and integrated Smeg appliances. The master suites feature walk-in robes, freestanding bathtubs, and private balconies overlooking the lake.

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Ashwin points out that the Gold Coast’s medium to low-rise market is currently undersupplied, making Lakeside Serenity 4212 Waterfront Villas particularly appealing.

“Serenity meets the demand for high-quality, medium to low-rise homes,” Ashwin says.

There has been significant interest from both local downsizers and Brisbane residents looking for a second home. They are drawn to the excellent connection to Brisbane while wanting to spend the majority of their time on the Coast.

“The link between Brisbane and Helensvale is unrivaled, and it’s a connection that no other suburb can beat,” Ashwin adds.

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Additionally, the upcoming Coomera Connector will improve access between the northern suburbs and Broadbeach. The Cross River Rail Project, which will add a new train station in Helensvale (just 8 kilometers from Serenity), will further improve regional accessibility.

Ashwin notes that supply in the northern Gold Coast suburbs will remain tight.

“The Queensland Government’s build program for the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics will limit residential supply, especially in the medium to low-rise markets,” he explains.

Lakeside Serenity 4212 is already an established community with additional developments in the pipeline including a premium, low-rise apartment offering and future retail precinct.&nbsp;

Resort Homes, one of the most reputable builders in the northern Gold Coast, has begun construction on the Lakeside Serenity 4212 Waterfront Villas and expects to complete the project in Q3 this year.

&nbsp;

High demand and limited supply in Northern Gold Coast drives buyers to Helensvale's Lakeside Serenity Villas

The Federal Government’s latest announcement of a temporary two-year ban on foreigners purchasing existing housing in Australia has led to some confusion about its impact.

Under the&nbsp;updated FIRB regulations, foreign buyers can&nbsp;still purchase off the plan properties and newly completed dwellings without being affected by the revised rules.&nbsp;

The new regulation, effective from 1 April 2025, will prevent temporary residents from purchasing established houses. This change is intended to support the creation of new housing by redirecting demand towards new apartments and houses, which will see further demand channelled towards key off-the-plan markets.&nbsp;

Colliers Managing Director, Victoria | Residential, Tim Storey, said they expect the effects of this policy change will surprise on the upside, especially for developers of new apartments in Melbourne who will now have a larger pool of buyers.

“This policy is a positive step towards addressing the housing supply issue in Australia. By encouraging the purchase of new dwellings, we are also supporting the construction industry," Storey said.

According to the latest available statistics, foreign buyers have purchased an annual average of only 1,291 established homes over the past three years, representing just 0.24 per cent of overall housing market sales. &nbsp;

Significantly, Victoria has consistently attracted the highest levels of foreign buyer activity across all categories, accounting for 45 per cent of purchases across Australia over the past three years. This trend is expected to continue, benefiting developers in the state.&nbsp;

“The updated FIRB regulations combined with the Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent announcement of a cash rate cut, which lenders have passed through, create a more favourable environment for new housing developments," Storey added.

"Developers should see this as an opportunity to meet the growing demand for new dwellings. This change ensures that the market for off-the-plan properties remains robust and continues attracting foreign investment."

FIRB regulations to drive foreign buyers to new apartment development market

Precinct-led developer Coronation Property has completed its multi-stage, multi-award winning <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a> precinct, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-245-merrylands-road-merrylands">Mason &amp; Main</a>, injecting a fresh new look into the growing Western Sydney market.&nbsp;

Mason &amp; Main comprises two stages, the first Sydney’s largest build-to-rent development, the second the more traditional build-to-sell.&nbsp;

Due to the mix of configurations, including studio apartments which are rarely offered in today’s new apartment market, a mix of owner-occupiers, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 70 per cent sold.

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All of the studio and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible first home buyers to avoid stamp duty under the NSW Government’s First Home Buyer Assistance scheme. The studios start from $508,000 and the two-bedroom apartments from $756,000.

A number of the apartments feature multipurpose rooms that can be used as home offices, nurseries, or additional bedrooms, catering to changing lifestyle needs.

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It was 2020 when <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a> secured a prime 12,418 sqm site near Merrylands Station with the goal for the new development to be a focal point in the area’s transformation.

Coronation Property Managing Director, Joe Nahas, says Mason &amp; Main is driving a re-vitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Mason &amp; Main brings an incredible amount of high-quality, high-amenity homes into a community that needs new housing,” Nahas says, adding that the response from homebuyers, especially first home buyers, has been truly incredible.

“The sales reaffirm our commitment to delivering exceptional properties that transform the local areas in which we develop."

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Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to create something the western suburbs haven’t seen before.

“The project’s design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design,” Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.

Mason &amp; Main wasn't just about providing housing in a key growth area for Coronation; it was equally important to ensure access to top-tier facilities for both Mason &amp; Main residents and the wider community.

Mason &amp; Main residents will enjoy exclusive access to a resort-style swimming pool, complete with a pool deck, alfresco dining areas, and barbecues. Other amenities include a high-tech Technogym gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace offering stunning panoramic views of Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains.

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At street level, there’s a 9,000 sqm retail and dining hub featuring over 25 retailers, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and specialty stores, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. One of the flagship venues is One Playground, a popular fitness gym offering more than 200 classes per week.

Further amenities are conveniently located just a short distance from Mason &amp; Main. Merrylands Station, just 350 meters away, provides a 40-minute commute to Sydney’s CBD, while Parramatta is only a five-minute drive. Directly across the road is Stockland Merrylands Shopping Centre, with over 200 stores.

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Mason &amp; Main apartments are move-in ready and are the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation.

&nbsp;

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Coronation Property Managing Director, Joe Nahas, says Mason & Main is driving a re-vitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments

Coronation Property welcomes buyers to Mason & Main Merrylands as final apartments released

640 Bourke Street represents a culmination of six years of vision and development by Far East Consortium.

The journey began in 2019 when the consortium acquired the historic Eliza Tinsley building, situated on a prime 2,765 sqm site at the Spencer Street end of Bourke Street. While the landmark building, dating back to the early 1900s, will be preserved, it will be complemented by a striking glass tower designed by Rothelowman, which will seamlessly extend from the heritage structure.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne">640 Bourke Street</a> offers prices befitting of its address, with the one-bedroom apartments starting from $640,000. There are also two and three-bedroom apartments on offer throughout the 68-level skyscraper, designed with the owner-occupier in mind.&nbsp;

Far East Consortium sought to create larger apartments than the previous approval that came with the site purchase had proposed. That had 813 apartments, which have now been cut down to just over 600 to accomodate larger floorplans.

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"The people who do want to be in the city want bigger apartments, and we're catering for that need,"&nbsp;Far East Consortium Executive Director Craig Williams said.

On the new design, Williams said history shows if you can put a modern sculpture piece of architecture behind a heritage building, the two complement each other.

"It's a very elegantly designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

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640 Bourke Street will also be filled with resident amenity, over 3,000 sqm of it, to elevate its residents lifestyle.

There will be everything from a pool&nbsp;inspired by Turkish hammams to a gym, an art therapy room, co-working spaces, a whisky lounge, a library, and movie theatres.&nbsp;

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Residents will enjoy seamless access to Melbourne's renowned retail, arts, and green spaces, from Bourke Street Mall to Flagstaff Gardens.

"Bourke Street is a very proud address," Williams added.

"Whilst we may be towards the western end of the old city, we are at the centre of the new city of Melbourne."

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640 Bourke will be&nbsp;Far East Consortium's 14th building in Melbourne. Their most recent completion was the four-tower, $2.4 billion development West Side Place, just 400 metres away on Spencer Street.

Buyers only have until October 2025 to take advantage of the VIC Government's <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/news/vic/vic-government-slashes-stamp-duty-for-off-the-plan-property-buyers-savings-available-immediately-oct-2024">generous stamp duty concessions</a> announced late last year.

*Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as at March 2025.

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Far East Consortium’s new CBD apartment tower rises behind the historic Eliza Tinsley Building

Fashion retailer Topshop Topman to open in Sydney’s historic Gowings building

Jonathan Chancellor

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