5 developers to watch in the ACT in 2021
Knowing the developer and their projects is an important step in preparing to purchase an off-the-plan property.
But, navigating through pages of reviews on past projects – on top of the already exhausting task of searching for a home – might seem daunting to some first home buyers.
Urban takes a glance at five developers operating in the ACT, one of Australia’s strongest rental markets with consistently low vacancy rates, to keep an eye on this year.
1. Geocon Group
Since its establishment in 2007, Geocon has risen as Australia’s fourth largest residential developer, according to the Housing Industry Association. The company has an annual turnover of $250-300 million and is now one of Canberra’s most successful developers.
“Geocon’s hallmark is architecturally-stunning buildings that deliver a new standard of contemporary living”, the company writes.
With several quality developments in the pipeline, this local development group is one to watch. Currently, Geocon boasts nine developments across the territory currently on the market. Among these are two Braddon projects, Midnight and Envie, as well as Belconnen’s three-stage Republic.
The third and final stage of Republic, Nightfall, offers a collection of 334 one and two-bedroom apartments overlooking Lake Ginninderra, designed by Fender Katsalidis. Investors and home buyers can secure a home in the development now, with one-bedroom apartments starting from $468,900.
You can view Geocon's full list of projects here.
2. JWLand Development
ACT property developer JWLand has become a significant player in Canberra’s residential property industry – well on their way to becoming a national leader in development. JWLand is known for their community engagement, quality design and precinct-style projects.
One to watch in the new year, JWLand’s current projects include the parkside living quarter, Campbell 5, located in one of Canberra’s most prestigious suburbs. Last year, the project won the Planning Institute of Australia’s ‘From Plan to Place’ award.
“[Campbell 5] provides a cohesive relationship with the well planned and designed public open spaces and streets,” PIA said.
Other luxury developments delivered by JWLand currently on the market include Braddon’s. Founders Lane. The project’s fourth stage is to be launched soon.
You can view JWLand's full list of projects here.
3. Doma Group
Now recognised as one of the largest investment and development companies in the ACT, Doma assumes a strong place as one of Urban’s must-watch developers. Established in 1974, the Canberra-based group has since moved into several sectors of the property industry, including residential apartments, commercial offices, hotels, retail spaces and carparks.
With ten residential developments either on the market or soon to be launched in Canberra, 2021 is set to be a big year for Doma. Developments currently in their pipeline include Griffith’s The Archer and Dickson’s DKSN.
Designed by Bates Smart, DKSN will offer 287 one, two and three-bedroom residences, carefully curated restaurants and a state-of-the-art office building. DKSN’s close proximity to the city centre and hotspot of Braddon make it the ideal base for urban adventures, and the development will feature al fresco dining areas inspired by Melbourne’s eat-streets.
You can view Doma Group's full list of projects here.
4. Core Developments
Celebrating only their tenth year operating in Canberra, Core Developments may be a newer competitor in Canberra’s property development industry but has continued to deliver high-quality developments in the ACT.
Core has completed a number of projects in the Capital Territory. Recently completed projects include the successful residential development in Gungahlin, Mezzo. Completed in November 2017, the project featured 126-apartments across two towers of 7 and 12-storeys.
The company has completed over $100 million in residential and commercial projects, with current works in the pipeline including M42 in Braddon and Marlu in Denman Prospect. Offering townhomes and apartments, Marlu boasts an affordable entry-price of just $299,900.
Core Development's latest achievements include two nominations at the 2020 Master Builders and Asset Construction Hire excellence awards including the ‘apartments and units - up to 3 storeys’ and the ‘apartments and units – highrise living’ categories.
You can view Core Development's full list of projects here.
5. POD Projects Group
Canberra-based POD Projects Group have secured their place as a developer to watch following the recent completion of their luxury Gungahlin development, Ruby. Operating for nearly 30 years, POD has successfully delivered nearly 1,500 residential and commercial properties throughout Canberra.
Core Development and POD have partnered together countless times, with the last five projects they developed collaboratively all winning building awards. Their most recent development, Ruby, featured 169 dwellings, a resort-style rooftop pool and alfresco barbeque areas, designed by Stewart Architecture.
Set for a big year ahead, POD recently purchased a 12,000sqm block of land in the heart of Gungahlin Town Centre, with the community consultation process for the precinct in progress.
You can view POD Projects Group's full list of projects here.
