The first box that many prospective home buyers tick is location. It’s often the first filter used when browsing property listing websites.

However, it’s essential to look beyond the suburb level. The location of a property within a suburb can vary dramatically, and it’s only by going deeper that buyers can truly appreciate the benefits of being in a prime spot.

Gold Coast developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/sixty-sticks">Sixty Sticks</a> is shaking things up in Southport, an area where new developments have traditionally centered around the heart of the suburb. They’ve secured a prime park-facing site on Brighton Parade for their newly launched <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/brighton-on-the-park-southport-28-brighton-parade-southport">Brighton on the Park</a>&nbsp;development, offering a unique location that offers a superior lifestyle experience.

The new development of just 12 luxury apartments will sit across the road from James Overell Park. It has been designed to take advantage of its location, with each apartment offering never-to-be-built-out views over the park, famous Gold Coast waterways, and across the Nerang to the city skyline.

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James Overell Park provides a green respite for residents looking to enjoy outdoor activities on its sports field, half-size basketball court, playground, picnic facilities and dog off-leash exercise area.

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The development is also strategically located close to&nbsp;top-tier educational institutions like The Southport School (TSS) and St Hilda’s School.

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While located outside&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a>&nbsp;CBD, future Brighton on the Park residents will be just a three-minute drive is&nbsp;The Brickworks Centre, a lively shopping destination featuring the renowned Ferry Rd Market, known for offering some of the Coast's finest fresh produce, meats, seafood, and deli items.

The CBD is about three kilometres away, offering further&nbsp;shops, cafes, and essential services. The light rail, which heads runs south toward Broadbeach and north toward the Gold Coast University Hospital, is just a five-minute drive.

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Sixty Sticks have already completed some preliminary site preparation for the six-level building which will have just two house-sized apartments per floor. Each apartment starts from nearly 250 sqm.

Crowning the building will be a resident amenity level with a rooftop pool with sun-drenched day beds, a fully equipped gym, and multiple lounge areas.

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Demolition of the existing house on the property will begin shortly, with construction expected to start in Q1/Q2 2025. The build is anticipated to take around 14 months, as the project will not require excavation for basement parking, which typically adds significant time to the timeline.

With construction on track, buyers can expect to move in by mid-2026.

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Joel Robinson

Southport's only new parkside apartment development: The prime location of Brighton on the Park

Leading Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/aniko-group">Aniko Group</a> has reached a significant milestone in its $500 million transformation of Hope Island with the completion of its premium townhouse development, 35 Grant Avenue.

All 58 townhouses have sold.

George Mastrocostas, Managing Director of Aniko Group, said the project’s success reflects a strong market appetite for luxury housing in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a>.&nbsp;

“The sell-out of <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/no-35-grant-residences-35-grant-avenue-hope-island">35 Grant Avenue</a> highlights the continued demand for sophisticated and functional homes in sought-after locations like Hope Island”, Mastrocostas said.

“This waterfront development is part of our broader vision to enhance the quality of life for residents and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the area.”&nbsp;

35 Grant Avenue comprises architecturally designed two-level townhouses offering spacious three-bedroom layouts set within a secure, private gated community.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95316 project_image_fid=201428]

Each townhouse features outdoor private courtyards with paved terraces and generous-sized balconies on the upper-level.

The interiors boast high-quality finishes, including Herringbone engineered timber flooring throughout the ground-level living area and ducted air conditioning throughout the main living area and bedrooms.

35 Grant Avenue features fully equipped kitchens designed for modern living, with under-bench wine fridges, electric cooktops, and quality stainless steel appliances.

<img alt="No. 35 Grant Residences" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4ee117a7-4fd6-435c-b2ec-ceb69b6f77a3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/JPEG_living_courtyard_2_townhouse_a_31-35_grant%20ave_3d_render_by_volumevision.jpg?VersionId=9DR0NzHyRjkOhm4HUg6MDKZ.PtT9yL4G" />

The development also offers residents first-class amenities designed to enhance waterfront living, including a luxurious resort-style pool, waterfront boardwalk and private marina berths.&nbsp;

Providing residents with a peaceful, luxurious lifestyle while fostering a sense of community, 35 Grant Avenue also includes lush green landscaping, an outdoor BBQ and dining area, and an outdoor firepit and lounge area. &nbsp;

“35 Grant Avenue has been designed to promote community while offering residents quality living and the opportunity to indulge in the peaceful waterfront life,"&nbsp;Mastrocostas added.

"This focus on quality and connection has deeply resonated with our buyers."

The project’s strategic location further adds to its appeal, with direct access to the Hope Island Marketplace and proximity to the Gold Coast’s major shopping centres, dining precincts, and recreational areas.&nbsp;

“The completion and sell-out of this project highlights the strong demand for quality homes in this area.

“It reinforces our commitment to delivering developments that are not only well-designed but also meet the evolving needs of residents looking for both lifestyle and convenience.”

<img alt="No. 35 Grant Residences" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01491ee1-4ecb-421d-8570-ac9c49151736" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/JPEG_firepit_31-35_grant_avenue_3d_render_by_volumevision.jpg?VersionId=GFB1tiW9_kK8N2eSS4Bw7BA_Cqf1FsqR" />

Aniko Group, known for delivering exceptional large-scale projects, has now completed four projects on Hope Island comprising 630 residences and is on track to complete $145 million Orama in Chevron Island, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and trusted developer that delivers high-quality products.&nbsp;

Following the completion of 35 Grant Avenue, Aniko Group is setting its sights on the Gold Coast’s biggest project in two decades, The Landmark in Mermaid Beach, which is due to start construction in early 2025.

Having already launched a ‘Register Your Interest’ campaign for the first stage, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/the-landmark-14-seaview-avenue-mermaid-beach">The Landmark</a> is primed to become one of the Gold Coast’s most iconic developments, featuring four towers and an internationally branded hotel yet to be announced.&nbsp;

“We are pleased with the momentum we’ve built with 35 Grant Avenue, and we look forward to bringing our focus to delivering The Landmark in Mermaid Beach, which is set to be a game changer for the Gold Coast on an international scale”, Mastrocostas concluded.

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Aniko Group completes sold-out 35 Grant Avenue in Hope Island

The name of the suburb Sorrento, on Perth's stunning coastline, is believed to be inspired by the Italian town overlooking the Bay of Naples. It’s easy to see why—both places share incredible ocean views, beautiful beaches, and scenic walking trails.

What sets <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/sorrento-wa-6020">Sorrento</a> in Perth apart, however, is something the Italian town doesn’t have: a brand-new apartment development. Apartments are a rare find in the beachside Perth locale, making up only about five percent of the suburb’s 3,000 or so homes. That’s what makes Megara’s Ora Sorrento such a unique opportunity for those wanting a modern, low-maintenance apartment by the coast.

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With such limited supply, the potential for strong long-term value growth is clear. <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/ora-sorrento-128-136-west-coast-drive-sorrento">Ora Sorrento</a>, currently under construction by Thomas Building, will offer 73 apartments when it’s completed in late 2026.

The award-winning MJA Studio took inspiration from Ora’s prime location, right across from Marmion and Sorrento Beaches. The design reflects the natural beauty of the coastline, with organic curves and high-quality finishes throughout both the exterior and interiors.

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Ora will feature a mix of spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, plus the exclusive Cascade Collection of multi-level, three and four-bedroom penthouses. The design embraces a ‘barefoot luxury’ style, combining top-tier finishes with a laid-back, coastal vibe.

The open-plan layouts at Ora Sorrento are designed to maximise space and natural light, with kitchens featuring premium V-ZUG appliances and Astra Walker fixtures. In the larger apartments, the master suites include walk-through wardrobes that lead to private ensuites with double vanities.

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Residents will enjoy an impressive range of resort-style amenities, including a private residents’ deck with a heated pool, cabanas, a sauna, steam room and a gym. There’s also a dedicated lounge with a kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining, while a wine cellar provides a cosy setting for tastings and secure storage.

Conveniently located just minutes from Seacrest Shopping Centre, the Flora Terrace Strip, Hillarys Boat Harbour, and Sorrento Quay, Ora offers easy access to a variety of dining, retail, and recreational options. Families will appreciate nearby schools like Sacred Heart College and Sorrento Primary School, the only two schools in the suburb.

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Ora is currently under construction, with construction expected in 2026.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/megara">Megara</a> has a strong track record, having been developing across Perth since 2006. They are currently developing <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/serai-north-fremantle-21-mccabe-street-north-fremantle">Serai</a>, one of the few new developments in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/north-fremantle-wa-6159">North Fremantle</a>.

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The award-winning MJA Studio took inspiration from Ora’s prime location, right across from Marmion and Sorrento Beaches

The unrepeatable nature of Ora Sorrento apartments

In a move that underscores the sustained demand for large-scale mixed-use development opportunities in metropolitan Melbourne, one of the city’s most significant infill development sites has been acquired by a prominent local developer.

The coveted Kinnear’s Precinct at 124-180 Ballarat Road, <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/footscray-vic-3011">Footscray</a>, spanning nearly three hectares, has been snapped up from R&amp;F Property in a deal that highlights the precinct’s immense potential for urban renewal. While the final sale price remains undisclosed, it is understood it was in the vicinity of $40 million.

With an approved development plan already in place, the site can accommodate over 1,200 dwellings, setting the stage for a transformative urban project in one of Melbourne’s most rapidly evolving suburbs.

Footscray has been identified as a ‘Priority Precinct’ by the Victorian Government, a designation aimed at driving coordinated growth and investment to solidify its role as a major hub for residential, commercial, and cultural activities.

<img alt="Major Footscray development site changes hands in landmark deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e31215d7-7893-43e7-8193-51c1d1062d99" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/124-180%20Ballarat%20Rd%2C%20Footscray%20markup2.JPG?VersionId=VwHkEL3EAGJsBVoN0laeKrKatV2azxx4" />

The Victorian Government’s Housing Statement, which outlines a vision for 800,000 new homes across the state over the next decade, further enhances the appeal of the Kinnear’s Precinct. Coupled with Plan Melbourne’s 70:30 objective to direct the majority of new housing into established areas, the site represents an unparalleled opportunity to deliver large-scale housing close to key services and transport links.

The site itself comprises a mix of partially vacant land and older warehouse buildings, with 128 Ballarat Road featuring a renovated heritage structure alongside a well-established display suite. Positioned within walking distance of public transport options and key infrastructure projects, including the new Footscray Hospital currently under construction, the location is primed for significant redevelopment.

<img alt="Major Footscray development site changes hands in landmark deal" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a76e7aa9-196b-4afc-aa9a-fc5ef3fd3179" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/124-180%20Ballarat%20Rd%2C%20Footscray%20markup.JPG?VersionId=A7Hj2HtIhFNzNh.6IFQkFENLIDCG6wxB" />

Cushman &amp; Wakefield’s Joe Kairouz, Hamish Burgess and Leon Ma facilitated the sale following a highly competitive campaign that attracted strong interest from both local and international developers.

“The site’s significant scale, mixed-use zoning, approved staged development plan, and proximity to major employment hubs and lifestyle amenities attracted widespread interest, with a locally based developer ultimately securing the site under highly competitive terms,” Kairouz said.

Hamish Burgess said The Kinnear’s Precinct represents Melbourne’s premier opportunity to develop a world-class mixed-use project that harmoniously integrates Footscray’s rich history with modern placemaking.

"Its proximity to Melbourne’s CBD, combined with the area’s abundant amenities, makes it an exceptional location for creating a truly unique development.”

Demand for Melbourne apartment development sites ramps up as $40m Footscray block sells

Transport Oriented Developments (TODs) are generating significant buzz across Sydney. The acronym has been a new strategy implemented by the NSW Government to encourage, and increase, housing density near key transport hubs.

While TODs are the in thing, veteran developer <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> has long prioritized developments close to both established transport networks and future transport hubs.

Robert Furolo, Deicorp’s Executive Manager for Corporate Communications, says that connectivity to transport is a top priority when assessing development sites.

"We have over 1,500 apartments in various stages of planning, and all located not just within a kilometre of public transport, but just a few hundred metres away," Furolo explains.

"It’s essential for our future buyers that we offer excellent connectivity to the rest of Sydney, whether we're five or 40 kilometres from the city—the criteria remain the same."

Founded in 1999 by Fouad Deiri OAM, Deicorp has been a major player in Sydney's property market for over two decades. However, in the last five years, the company has ramped up its focus on addressing Sydney's housing supply issues. Currently, Deicorp has over 3,350 apartments under construction across Greater Sydney—a number set to grow in 2025 as the company embarks on some of its most exciting developments yet.

In 2024, the iCIRT-rated builder-developer completed more than 1,500 apartments across several key projects in <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/zetland-nsw-2017">Zetland</a> and <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>.

While completing projects is central to Deicorp’s business, it’s their ongoing contribution to alleviating Sydney’s housing shortage—and their ever-growing pipeline of new developments—that has many industry peers taking notice.

In addition to last year's completions, Deicorp ventured into new markets, demonstrating their ability to succeed in different locations, provided the site meets the needs of the end buyer. In 2024, they launched three new projects in these markets: Melrose Central in Melrose Park, Marquet &amp; Mary in Rhodes, and Cosmopolitan in Parramatta.

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<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/melrose-central-melrose-park-657-661-victoria-road-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Central</a> is one of Deicorp’s largest developments to date—a $700 million, mixed-use project featuring just under 500 apartments. This development will be the heart of the Melrose Park precinct, with six buildings designed by Turner Studio sitting atop a five-level podium.

The podium will house a 30,000 sqm shopping centre anchored by a Coles supermarket, along with specialty stores, wellness facilities, and retail and hospitality venues. The site is directly in front of the future Melrose Park light rail stop. Sales were brisk at its launch in August, with significant numbers achieved through CBRE.

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/marquet-mary-rhodes-1-9-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Marquet &amp; Mary</a> marked Deicorp’s first development in Rhodes. The soaring 42-level, 274-apartment tower, designed by FK Australia, is located opposite Rhodes Station, while their <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/cosmopolitan-by-deicorp-parramatta-34-hassall-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta project Cosmopolitan</a> will bring over 600 apartments across two towers on Hassall Street, on the doorstep of the Robin Thomas Light Rail station.

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2024 also saw the completion of Downtown, part of Deicorp’s major revitalization of Zetland. This project was also Deicorp’s first completed development with Latent Defects Insurance.

With a significant footprint in central Sydney through Hyde Metropolitan and the redevelopment of the Polding Centre, Deicorp is also active in the fast-growing Hills Showground Precinct in Castle Hill, right next to the newly opened Metro station.

Looking ahead to 2025, Deicorp will continue its momentum, adding several thousand apartments to its construction pipeline. Later this year, they will begin their largest development to date—Kings Bay Village in Five Dock. Located near Parramatta Road, bus stops, and the future Five Dock Metro station (set to open in 2032), Kings Bay Village will deliver nearly 1,200 apartments to Sydney’s undersupplied housing market. The development will feature six towers sitting atop a commercial, retail, and community podium, with a central plaza running between the towers.

Furolo is excited about the project’s significance for both Deicorp and the local Canada Bay area.

“Every conversation we have—whether with industry professionals or potential investors—everyone is asking about the timeline for Kings Bay Village,” Furolo says.

“The precinct will offer everything. Of the 1,200 apartments, 15 percent will be set aside for affordable housing—an integral part of our ethos that we’ve been committed to for several years now.”

The scale of Kings Bay Village means it will contribute 23 percent toward Canada Bay Council’s goal of delivering 5,000 new homes by 2029.

Deicorp hopes to secure approval for the project in mid-2025, after which they will begin clearing the site and undertaking land remediation.

Furolo highlights that Deicorp’s competitive edge lies in their ability to act quickly once approvals are in place.

"Once we secure approval, we waste no time," he says. "We immediately begin preparing the site for construction. During the planning and design phase, we assess the market, so we already know there’s demand for this type of product in this location. This allows us to deliver housing supply consistently across Greater Sydney."

In 2025, Deicorp will again expand into new areas, with its first development on the Lower North Shore. <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-8-alexander-street-crows-nest">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a> in Crows Nest will rise 22 levels from the corner of Falcon and Alexander Streets, near key transport links. The building will offer 188 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, 15 percent of which will be affordable. Furolo anticipates the project will be especially popular with downsizers in the area.

Additionally, Deicorp will break ground in Macquarie Park, another hot development zone. They have plans for a 17-level tower with 180 apartments, designed by DKO, just 300 metres from the Macquarie Park Metro station and shopping centre.

Deicorp’s Chairman, Fouad Deiri, stresses the importance of connecting housing to transport infrastructure.

“Being able to provide affordable homes for essential workers in such a prime location makes these projects all the more meaningful,” Deiri says.

In 2024, the iCIRT-rated builder-developer completed more than 1,500 apartments across several key projects in Zetland and Castle Hill

Oxford Properties sells Barangaroo Central to Aqualand

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