Landen has secured Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) for its 2.5-hectare Memorial Drive site at Bella Vista, marking a key milestone on the NSW Government’s Tier 1 Transport-Oriented Development (TOD) Accelerated State Significant Development Application (SSDA) Pathway.
Fast-tracking a landmark precinct
After receiving rezoning approval in November 2024 for their initial plans for 224 apartments, Landen acted swiftly to capitalise on an uplift in Floor Space Ratio (FSR) from 1:1 to 1.9:1. This transformative change effectively doubles the project’s yield, creating the potential for 471 homes in a vibrant and sustainably designed community.
Landen took only three months to turn around a completely reimagined design, ensuring the precinct aligns with the latest planning and sustainability benchmarks.
Shane Harding, Head of Property at Landen, said the milestone demonstrates the government’s recognition of the project’s planning merit and contribution to housing and infrastructure delivery.
“This is a major step forward for Bella Vista and a clear endorsement of the project’s significance. The SEARs process ensures that every element of our proposal – from housing density to transport infrastructure and environmental sustainability – is assessed at the highest level. It is an opportunity to refine and strengthen our vision, ensuring we deliver a well-planned, highly connected, and sustainable precinct.”
What receiving SEARs means for the Bella Vista project
- Recognition of the project’s strategic importance – The NSW Government has confirmed that this is a State Significant Development (SSD), meaning it has the potential to shape the urban landscape at a regional level.
- Triggers the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process – Landen will now undertake detailed environmental, transport, and social impact studies to ensure the project delivers measurable benefits for future residents and the broader community.
- Sets a framework for government and public consultation – The SEARs process involves collaboration with key government agencies such as Transport for NSW, the Department of Planning, and the Environment Protection Authority, ensuring early alignment with state planning objectives.
- Confirms rigorous sustainability and infrastructure planning – The project must address key focus areas, including:
- Traffic and transport impacts
- Biodiversity and heritage conservation
- Water and soil management
- Community and stakeholder engagement
- Sustainable design and environmental resilience
Mr Harding said Landen is committed to meeting and exceeding these requirements to ensure Bella Vista is a benchmark for responsible, high-quality urban development.
“The SEARs process provides a clear roadmap for the next stage of planning, allowing us to demonstrate how this project will enhance connectivity, create vibrant open spaces, and deliver much-needed housing in a way that is both sustainable and community-focused.”
A Well-Planned, Highly Connected Precinct
Located at 40 Memorial Avenue, the 2.5-hectare site is the largest landholding within the Bella Vista Transport-Oriented Development (TOD) precinct. Landen acquired the site in December 2024.
The project is designed to leverage the site’s unique advantages, including:
- Unmatched connectivity: Just a kilometre from the Metro and 350 metres from the Bus T-way ensuring seamless access to employment and commercial centres across Sydney.
- A balance of density and liveability: Increasing from 224 approved dwellings to 471 apartments, ensuring more homes near transport while maintaining high urban design standards.
- More open space than required: The plans provide for a Deep Soil allowance of 32.45% – more than 25 per cent above the requirement. The proposal also
- Upgraded infrastructure to support the community: The development will deliver a new bridge over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek and improved road networks, benefiting the wider area.
With an estimated $200 million investment, Bella Vista is positioned to be a leading example of sustainable, transport-oriented development in Sydney’s North West.
Landen will now progress with detailed studies, public consultation, and preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) before lodging its formal SSD application.
Learn more about 40 Memorial Avenue, Bella Vista.
In today’s property market, buyers often worry about unexpected delays, price hikes, or cancellations, which have become all too common.
Buyer experiences, such as those shared recently in the news, highlight the frustration they feel when developers change terms after contracts are signed, delay construction indefinitely or fail to deliver on their promises.
At Landen, we understand these concerns, and we want to reassure our buyers—current and future—that their experience with us will be different.
Landen’s commitment
Landen has never cancelled a sale, resold land at higher prices or pushed the burden of rising construction costs onto buyers.
Even as we experienced challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19 and rising costs of materials, we absorbed any additional expenses to protect our buyers from financial stress.
Our priority is ensuring that buyers get exactly what they were promised, at the price they agreed to, without unexpected changes.
If there are unavoidable land registration and settlement delays due to factors beyond our control, we communicate with our buyers promptly, so they aren’t left feeling anxious about their investment.
Transparency and support throughout the buying process
Purchasing unregistered land or an off-the-plan home can feel overwhelming, but the Landen team is here to simplify the process with transparent, honest communication from start to finish. Our contracts comply with the Unfair Contract Terms (UCT) Regime, ensuring our agreements are straightforward and protect buyers from unexpected clauses or penalties.
We provide comprehensive guides and have a dedicated sales team ready to explain contract terms. With our head office located in Norwest, near several of our projects, we’re always happy to meet for face-to-face discussions.
We also strongly recommend that buyers engage their own solicitor to review contracts independently, ensuring they fully understand the terms before moving forward.
Communication is key to our process. We keep buyers informed throughout land registration and construction phases via regular email and video updates, helping them plan with confidence. If there are any delays caused by weather or supply chain issues, we communicate this promptly.
Tailored offerings for your new home
For select land estates, we’ve partnered with some of Sydney’s most dependable and reputable builders—North Homes, Domaine, McDonald Jones and Mojo Homes—to offer curated home-and-land packages that deliver the exceptional quality and steadfast reliability that our future residents can rely on.
In addition, some of our Estates offer spec builds, which allow buyers to pay an initial deposit upfront for both the land and home, with the balance due only upon completion. This provides flexibility for those looking to move in sooner, without the financial burden of ongoing payments during construction.
For our integrated home and land estates, such as Marsden Park and Norwest, we collaborate with premium builder, North Homes to ensure a seamless experience from purchase to completion. Throughout the build process, regular updates are provided to keep buyers informed and reassured via a dedicated client portal.
Our track record and exciting future projects
Landen is proud of the estates we’ve delivered and the projects we’re currently working on.
Our Box Hill Estate 1 is completed, with 95% of homes finished and residents already living in this thriving community. At Rouse Hill, homes are under construction in Stages 1 and 2, and land registration is on the horizon for our Marsden Park and Box Hill Estate 2.
Our Norwest, Oakville, Grantham Farm Claremont Meadows Estates are all currently under construction and progressing well with registration expected in Q1 and Q2 2025.
We have exciting projects in the pipeline, including estates in Wyee, North Kellyville and Kenthurst, as well as further stages in Bringelly and Orchard Hills. In addition, we’re expanding into apartment projects in Bella Vista and Norwest and an industrial site in Cecil Park.
We only bring projects to market when we’re fully prepared to deliver them on time and as promised—ensuring that buyers never experience the disappointments others have faced in the broader market.
Questions? We’re here to help
If you have any questions about our developments, land registration, contracts, or anything else, please reach out to our team.
We’re here to support you every step of the way and ensure you feel confident and informed about your investment.
The NSW Government’s ambitious Transport-Oriented Development (TOD) initiative has paved the way for a bold expansion of Landen Property Group’s Bella Vista newly-approved residential project.
Originally approved for 224 apartments in late November, the project will now capitalise on an uplift in Floor Space Ratio (FSR) from 1:1 to 1.9:1. This transformative change effectively doubles the project’s yield, creating potential for up to 500 homes in a vibrant and sustainably designed community.
The Bella Vista development is strategically located between both Bella Vista and Kellyville Metro Stations, making it a cornerstone of the TOD vision to deliver high-density, walkable neighbourhoods with exceptional connectivity to transport and employment hubs.
Key Highlights of the Enhanced Proposal:
- A Modern Residential Masterpiece: The expanded proposal will feature up to 500 apartments in a mix of 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom layouts, complemented by a selection of terrace-style homes. These residences are designed with contemporary lifestyles in mind, offering spacious interiors, abundant natural light, and high-quality finishes.
- Exceptional Community Amenities: Residents will enjoy access to landscaped gardens, a resort-style pool, barbecue areas, children’s play zones, and shared spaces designed to foster connection and community spirit. The project will also incorporate a through-site pedestrian and cycleway link, enhancing connectivity within the precinct.
- Environmental Innovation: Sustainability sits at the heart of the development, with initiatives including rainwater harvesting, advanced energy-efficient designs, a significant increase in tree canopy coverage, and preservation of riparian zones. The project’s integration with its natural surroundings ensures minimal environmental impact while maximising resident enjoyment.
A Vital Infrastructure Contribution
Beyond delivering new homes, Landen Property Group’s plans include the construction of a key piece of infrastructure for the area: a new bridge and roundabout over Elizabeth Macarthur Creek.
These works, part of the project’s subdivision development phase, will create critical new road and pedestrian connections to Free Settlers Drive, opening up access to future developments and parklands in the precinct.
“The bridge and associated works are a game-changer for this community,” said Shane Harding Head of Property at Landen.
“This vital infrastructure not only supports the success of this development but also delivers long-term benefits for the wider area, facilitating growth and improving accessibility.”
The infrastructure project will be delivered in collaboration with the local Council, reflecting Landen’s commitment to contributing to the broader community through considered and future-focused design.
Fast-Tracked Approvals and Delivery
The TOD initiative’s expedited development pathways mean Landen plans to submit a revised Development Application (DA) very quickly.
A Vision of Vibrant Urban Living
The Bella Vista project showcases the potential of TOD initiatives to reimagine urban living. With its proximity to two Metro stations, extensive green spaces, and community-first design, the development will offer a lifestyle that blends convenience with liveability. Thoughtfully designed communal areas, including podium gardens and creekside walkways, will encourage social interaction and healthy, active living.
“The TOD announcement has unlocked enormous potential,” added Mr Harding, “We’re not just building homes; we’re creating a community where people will want to live, work, and connect. This project embodies the future of sustainable, integrated development.”
Sydney’s a fantastic city, just ask any of the 5 million people who call it home this year. Whether you’re new to Sydney or the country, or a local who wants to buy for the first time, it can be hard to know where to start when it comes to purchasing in the Harbour City.
Here is our essential guide to help you navigate the Sydney property market with confidence.
Looking to buy?
Making the decision to buy a home is both exciting and daunting. Recent research suggests that it often takes 16 months from actively looking for a property to purchasing – not including the time it takes to save a deposit.
There are a few factors that you need to consider before starting your journey.
- Budgeting. What deposit can you save, what size mortgage can you service and what is your realistic budget for the purchase? Here are some useful financial calculators; Calculators | Landen
- Location. Are you looking for good links to public transport or roads? Do you need to consider the primary and high schools that the area is zoned for?
- What is your ideal home? Are you looking for a block of land to build your own house from scratch? Or looking for an apartment? Are you open to an already built home that needs renovations, or do you want something brand new? Are you planning to rent it out in the future?
Once you are ready, you can manage your property search more efficiently.
From Bondi to Blacktown, there’s something for everyone
Sydney’s property market is as diverse as its population.
The City has penthouse apartments and homes in the Eastern Suburbs that are valued at more than $210 million, according to this March 2024 realestate.com.au article. You can find more affordable houses without compromising on convenience and lifestyle for under $1,000,000, according to this Canstar 2023 report. Or even consider if apartment living would suit you, as there are many options with a variety of amenities in every suburb across the whole city.
For buyers who are looking for a balance between affordability and lifestyle, Sydney’s Northwest is a suitable option. Suburbs like Box Hill, Claremont Meadows, and Rouse Hill offer modern amenities, green spaces, and relatively affordable housing options – even more affordable if you buy land and then build a home. With excellent transport links, reputable schools, and emerging communities, the Northwest is worth adding to your list.
Where to begin your search?
There are many different ways to find the suburbs that suit you and your dream home.
Online platforms, like www.realestate.com.au, www.domain.com.au, www.onthehouse.com.au, and individual real estate agent websites provide comprehensive listings of available properties, usually with detailed descriptions, photos, and virtual tours. Many sites also offer suburb profiles that highlight the positive, and negative, aspects of the different areas.
You could also consider working with a buyer’s agent, who, for a fee, can get you access to off-market opportunities and help you negotiate with a seller.
If you are interested in new builds, you can look for your perfect block of land and then explore homebuilder’s websites to find a home that suits your block or take a look at developers’ websites to consider off-the-plan opportunities and may have opportunities bundle your purchase of land and a new home.
Keeping up with Sydney’s property news
Keeping across the latest developments and trends in the Sydney property market is essential to making an informed decision and gain valuable insights into market dynamics, upcoming developments, and legislative changes affecting property ownership.
Most local, metro and national newspapers cover property, providing trend insights, market analyses, and expert opinions to help you stay informed.
Take a look at:
- The Daily Telegraph
- Sydney Morning Herald
- news.com.au
- The Australian Financial Review
- The Australian
As well as property-specific sites, such as:
The Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) is also a good source of information about the property market.
Remember, thorough research, including keeping across the current news, is key to making informed decisions in this ever-changing market.
Discover Landen’s estate here: Property | Landen
Many property investors and buyers start their search for a “smart purchase” by Googling the most affordable suburbs in Sydney.
While scoring a property bargain might be seen as a positive, it’s important to widen the picture and think about value for money and return on investment as well as price.
Affordability vs buying well
Sydney’s most affordable suburbs may deliver low-cost property, but you will need to be aware of what condition a home is in and examine the pros and cons of the location from an investment or lifestyle perspective.
Then there is the topic of capital growth and whether or not you’ll achieve the returns you are hoping for. You don’t want to pay below market price, only to realise the home needs expensive repairs and doesn’t sit in an area with growth potential.
Where to buy in Sydney
If you’re looking for quality homes at an affordable price point that offer capital gain potential, head to Sydney’s North West.
According to the NSW Government’s North West Priority Growth Area Implementation Plan, the goal is for the North West to be a collection of vibrant and liveable neighbourhoods that balance the needs of a growing population with new infrastructure as well as opportunities for employment and recreation.
Suburbs like Norwest and Box Hill have a great deal of investment in terms of new shopping and community centres. An example is Carmel Village; the latest shopping destination in the Hills District, with a wide variety of stores, services and dining options. There are also plenty of good schools to choose from and the suburbs are close to major transport hubs as well as the Hawkesbury River.
The biggest advantage of this part of Sydney is the opportunity to invest in one of the area’s stunning new house and land packages, which will give you a modern, appealing home that is a delight to live in.
The changing face of Sydney’s North West
Once a quiet rural landscape, developer activity and vastly improved infrastructure in and around suburbs like Box Hill and Norwest have seen the area transform into a thriving community of growing families.
With the rapid growth of parklands, schools, shopping centres, restaurants and other entertainment venues, the district is recognised as being one of Sydney’s best for growing families.
Statistics demonstrate just how popular these areas are. In 2022, for example, Box Hill, Gables and North Kellyville were all in realestate.com.au’s top ten suburbs with the greatest 5-year growth, and have all continued to perform strongly. Similarly, Kellyville Ridge and Beaumont Hills were on The Sydney Morning Herald’s March 2023 list of Sydney suburbs experiencing a boom.
For Box Hill, rental prices are up by 22 per cent over the last twelve months. Meanwhile, average prices have settled after a high during the pandemic; which means now is a good time to buy before they start to rise again.
In Norwest, rental prices are up by 7.6 per cent and house prices held relatively steady in 2023, demonstrating the timeless appeal of this postcode.
Why buy new in North West Sydney?
When you’re buying a home or investing in property, it’s better to think in terms of ‘affordable’ and ‘cost-effective’, rather than simply looking for Sydney’s cheapest suburbs.
For example, investing in a piece of land rather than buying an existing home gives you the potential for:
- A brand new, quality home
- No strange quirks or add-ons from the previous owner
- A floor plan that is designed for a modern lifestyle
- A place to live in a welcoming new community, often with plenty of owners in the same demographic as you
- The opportunity to achieve capital growth, even in the short term
The value of land always rises. With house values trend tracking upwards in Sydney (Norwest average values have risen from $1.16 million in 2019 to 1.522 million in early 2024), now is a great time to look for a cost-effective and location-savvy purchase that will definitely feel like it was ‘cheap’ in a few years.
Buying land or a land and house package in Australia is exciting, but there is paperwork and due diligence involved before you can pop the champagne to celebrate.
If you’re buying, it can be such a relief to find a solution that works for you, and you may feel tempted to add your signature to the contract without a second thought. However, it’s crucial to pay close attention to what you are agreeing to.
Before you purchase land or a home and land package in Sydney or elsewhere, take a look at some must-know information about exchanging contracts.
- Read your contract carefully
A home and land package in Sydney or elsewhere gives you a vacant block that is ready to build on or will be ready to build on soon. Generally, you will sign a contract for the land purchase and one for the builder to complete the construction work. These are separate documents, even though you are paying one price as part of the package.
If you are only buying the land, you will only have to deal with one contract until the time comes to build.
Land only contracts
The list below shows some of the key items included in a land contract:
- The conditions of the sale. This should include financing information and necessary inspections and the dates they must be completed by
- The names of both parties
- The date of the contract
- The address of the land
- The deposit amount and when it must be paid by
- The sale price
- The settlement date
- Whether or not the land will be vacant at the time of settlement
- If you need to start building your home by a particular date
Keep in mind that the contract is a lengthy document and will also include other information, such as taxation details and financial information. It may also have sections for foreign investment approval or other variables depending on the sale.
Ensure you read through your contract thoroughly and consider any clauses you may add.
Construction contract
The contract for the construction of the home is called a Home Building Contract/Agreement.
When you buy a land and home package you will need this contract and the land contract described above.
You should read over this contract just as carefully. It is more complex than a basic land or home purchase because it involves construction work over an extended period of time. For a thorough list of what to expect from a Home Building Contract/Agreement, head to the Fair Trading NSW website and review their checklist to make sure you are ready to take on a contract.
The checklist includes essential points like ensuring your builder is licensed and insured and that they represent a reputable new home construction company with a strong performance history. You should also take the time to review things like cost variations, builder warranties and what will happen if either party decides to terminate the contract.
Some contracts specify a fixed price for the build, others don’t. This is something to check carefully; you don’t want to end up spending more than expected or end up with a bill you are not prepared to pay.
- Understand the cooling-off terms
Technically speaking, there is a five-day cooling off period before a contract of sale goes ‘unconditional’. However, this is often waived in NSW with the help of what’s known as a Section 66W certificate.
Before you sign as part of a buying agreement, be aware that if Section 66W applies, there will be almost no option to back out and reclaim your deposit. In this case, it’s best to arrange a building and pest inspection before you have your offer accepted rather than afterwards.
You may be able to negotiate a five-day cooling-off period, but this allows the seller to back out as well. If either party changes their mind during this time, a small fee will apply.
- Time is of the essence
The Sydney property market is competitive at the moment, and there are lots of interested buyers looking for homes. For this reason, you will be expected to sign your contract reasonably quickly after having an offer accepted. Set aside some time in your day to give this task your full attention to avoid overlooking any important details.
- Professional help is essential
It makes sense to have a licensed conveyancer or solicitor to help you sign your new home or Sydney house and land package contract.
This expert will be able to look closely at documents including the plans and site specifications. They know how to spot red flags like a deck or swimming pool isn’t up to code.
A professional can also help you add clauses to the contract and take the right steps to ensure that your builders are above board.
Want to buy land or a house and land package in Sydney? Talk to us today. Call 1300 526 336 or click here.
Nestled in the heart of the Hawkesbury region, Oakville exudes a unique blend of tranquillity and promise, and is a suburb poised for a new chapter in its storied history.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Oakville an enticing prospect for those seeking a vibrant community to call home.
A glimpse into the past
According to records from a local Hawkesbury paper, Oakville was the name of the selection taken up by John Clark in 1894 near the Oakville of today. Clark built a four-room cottage and fenced and improved the land. The selection straddled a valley known as Oak Hollow because of the number of She Oaks (Casuarinas) which grew along the creek. Clark named his property Oakville and the district around it soon became known by the same name.
Over the years, it has evolved into a close-knit community that cherishes its heritage while embracing modernity. This suburb, bordering McGrath’s Hill, Vineyard, Box Hill, and Gables, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the region.
A tapestry of families and potential
What sets Oakville apart is its predominantly family-oriented demographic. Many households here are filled with the laughter and vitality of children, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This dynamic makes Oakville an ideal setting for those looking to raise a family, offering a supportive environment that fosters growth and camaraderie.
According to the 2021 ABS census, Oakville has a total population of 2,027 and 645 dwellings. Around 27% of residents are aged 25 to 49 years old and are likely to be part of a couple with children (45% of households) or a couple with no children (28%). They are likely to work in construction (20%), retail (10%) or manufacturing (8.5%).
Seamless connectivity
Located just 20 kilometres from the buzz of Norwest Business Park and a 49 kilometres north-west of Sydney’s central business district, Oakville strikes a balance between accessibility and serene living. Its proximity to key urban centres ensures that residents can enjoy the best of both worlds – the tranquillity of Oakville and the vibrant opportunities that Greater Western Sydney has to offer.
For shoppers, both the Carmel Village Shopping Centre is within easy reach, while the lively Rouse Hill Town Centre is just a short 15-minute drive. The upcoming Box Hill City Centre is another exciting addition to the shopping scene.
For families with school-aged children, Oakville is home to two schools – Oakville Public School for K-6 and the independent co-educational Arndell Anglican College for K-12. If these immediate local schools don’t suit, choose from a myriad of other top quality schools for all ages within the area.
Landen’s vision for Oakville
Landen’s unveiling of its Oakville estate marks a significant milestone in the development landscape. Boasting nearly 100 carefully curated lots, this is Landen’s most expansive estate to date. While exclusively offering land parcels, Landen is set to collaborate with a select group of builders to bring bespoke visions to life.
With staged releases planned, the estate provides a diverse array of lots ranging from 400 to 450 sqm. While pricing details are yet to be finalised, one thing is certain – Oakville presents an extraordinary opportunity for those seeking a place to build their dreams.
A glimpse into the future
In choosing Oakville as the canvas for their newest development, Landen recognises the tremendous potential this suburb holds. Drawing parallels with the thriving community of Box Hill, Landen envisions Oakville as the next beacon of growth and prosperity. The attributes that have made Box Hill a success story is echoed in Oakville’s landscape, offering a promising future for its residents.
As Landen’s Oakville estate prepares to take its place in the spotlight, it beckons to those with a vision for a vibrant and fulfilling life. With a rich history, a welcoming community, and a strategic location, Oakville stands poised to become a jewel in the City of Hawkesbury’s crown.
Keep an eye out for the launch of Landen’s Oakville estate – an opportunity to be part of a community that embraces the best of tradition and the promise of tomorrow.
Visit our Oakville Estate or get in touch with us on 1300 526 336 to register your interest.
If you have been following the Australian property market over recent years, you will know there have been a lot of price fluctuations and mixed messages.
Despite what some headlines may say (and they all seem to say different things), our view is that right now will be one of the best times to buy for quite a few years.
Here’s a look at what’s going on and an explanation around why a savvy purchase made in 2023 is likely to deliver better returns than if you wait until this time next year:
In 2023, while average home values are still rising across the country, growth has gone from stratospheric to so/so. There are a few factors that are keeping things relatively even:
- Interest rates and inflation are putting some buyers off making a purchase
- Stock on the market is limited, which is keeping competition steady amongst cash-ready buyers
- Demand from overseas buyers and new immigrants is high
- Rental vacancies are low meaning investment homes and apartments are offering attractive yield
- New build approvals are low, so there is less choice for buyers
If you think of property performance in terms of a clock, with 12 being the peak of price rises and six reflecting a period of inactivity, current data shows the hands are a lot closer to six than 12. Prices are not falling and auction clearance rates are reasonably strong, but home values are not going through the roof either.
Four reasons to buy at the end of 2023
So the property market is relatively lacklustre at the moment. This means it’s a great time to get in and buy.Take a look at why you might decide to make a move sooner rather than later.
- Interest rates are nearing their peak.
Inflation in the June quarter this year was only at 6% and is predicted to continue to slow.
The Reserve Bank raised interest rates in an effort to curb inflation and their efforts appear to be paying off. It’s too early to say for sure, but experts from the major banks are predicting they will begin to drop next year. There are already signs of this, with rates being left on hold in July and August.
Lower interest rates mean cheaper money, and this instigates buyer activity. While rates are higher, if you can afford to invest, it’s a great time. The silver lining of high rates is that you will find your loan more affordable over time if you have a variable rate that starts to drop.
- Construction costs are coming under control
Meanwhile, signs of inflation in the construction industry are easing as well. At the peak, building costs were out of control thanks to shortages of labour and material. Sadly, this caused many construction companies to collapse.
The flip side of this coin is that developers and companies that remain have proven they can stay the course through difficult economic times. They have more workers to choose from and are finally finding it easier to budget correctly for projects.
If you’re looking to invest in a new development and choose a well-established provider to work with, the ease in inflation means you can be more confident about your decision.
- Relatively low activity
While the bottom hasn’t fallen out of the real estate market, agents are definitely working a little harder at the moment to find buyers. If you can make a purchase now, you will have the advantage when the time comes to negotiate.
- Trends and traditions
Historically, periods of high interest rates and inflation are followed by market peaks. Consider the period after the GFC in Australia, which saw house prices increase.
Buying now means you’ll experience the calm before the storm and can look forward to positive returns when the market picks up.
The aim of buying real estate is to make money. While others are being cautious, it can pay to take action.
If you’d like to explore property investment options for 2023, visit Landen’s Estates, or call 1300 526 336 to get in touch with us today.
Nestled within the heart of North-West Sydney, Grantham Farm is a suburb carefully curated to embrace the serenity of nature while being within arm’s reach of modern conveniences. With a heritage dating back to a land grant, it seamlessly marries the past with the present. This region not only offers residents a tranquil lifestyle but also celebrates the remarkable journey that has shaped it into the vibrant community it is today
A glimpse into the past
Grantham Farm holds a rich history that adds layers of depth to its present-day allure. Although it wasn’t gazetted until November 2020, the suburb was originally a part of Riverstone and has witnessed centuries of growth and transformation. The echoes of its past, now woven into the fabric of the estate, lend it a unique and captivating character.
The very name of the suburb, Grantham Farm, carries the echoes of its evolution. The estate’s roots can be traced back to a subdivision of the original land grant of Riverstone. In 1810, Governor Lachlan Macquarie granted Lieutenant-Colonel Maurice Charles O’Connell a parcel of land that would later become the cornerstone of Grantham Farm. This historic land grant housed a sprawling six-bedroom cottage, complemented by vineyards and other essential outbuildings.
Where community meets convenience
Grantham Farm has quickly emerged as a haven for families seeking an oasis of tranquillity without compromising on accessibility. Its strategic location places it close to vital amenities and efficient public transport. This family-friendly neighbourhood caters to those who yearn for a quieter pace of life while remaining connected to urban necessities.
According to the 2021 ABS census, Grantham Farm has a total population of 3,669 and 1,204 dwellings. Almost 50% of residents are aged 25 to 49 years old and are likely to be part of a couple with children (54% of households) or a couple with no children (21%). They are likely to work in health care and social assistance (15%), Construction (11.5%) or retail (10%).
Ease and convenience become companions in Grantham Farm, with a range of shopping and dining options within reach. Residents can indulge in retail therapy at the Carmel Village Shopping Centre or relish the vibrant offerings of the Rouse Hill Town Centre. An assortment of family-friendly dining choices – spanning cafes, restaurants, and more – promises to tantalise taste buds and elevate dining experiences.
Education thrives in the vicinity of the suburb too, with an array of schools and learning centres within a 5km radius. From the Riverstone Public School to the Norwest Christian College, a plethora of options provide quality education for children. For those seeking tertiary education, esteemed institutions like Western Sydney University Nirimba and Tafe NSW – Castle Hill are conveniently situated a short drive away.
Nature lovers find themselves in their element at Grantham Farm. The cherished Rouse Hill Regional Park, a mere six-minute drive away, invites residents for leisurely picnics and family barbecues. Its bike trails, playgrounds, and the serenity of Second Pond Creek create a haven of relaxation. Nearby parks such as Riverstone Park, Schofields Park, Braemont Park, and Douglas Reserve add to the variety of outdoor options.
Seamless connectivity
Grantham Farm’s connectivity is its crowning glory. The convenience of Tallawong Metro Station and Riverstone Train Station ensures effortless access to Parramatta, Sydney CBD, and beyond.
A network of bus routes threading through Box Hill, Riverstone, Rouse Hill, and Castle Hill ensures that accessibility is never a concern, connecting residents to a world of opportunities.
This ease of travel is also appealing to renters. Investors hold 30% of homes in the area, while the balance is wholly owned or mortgaged. Visit https://www.realestate.com.au, for up to date summary of the suburb’s demand, supply and prices.
What home options does Landen have to offer in Grantham Farm?
Our Grantham Farm estate is perfectly positioned opposite a new Council Reserve and offers a range of land only blocks as well as a selection of home and land packages with some of Sydney’s leading builders.
Comprising a limited selection of meticulously planned blocks, Grantham Farm Estate pays homage to the essence of thoughtful land design. Spanning up to 380m², these plots offer an array of possibilities for those looking to craft their ideal living space. This diversity ensures that the estate caters to varied preferences, from spacious family homes to more compact, low-maintenance dwellings.
What’s next?
With its proximity to key amenities in the heart of a thriving region, it is clear that Grantham Farm is a place that people want to call home.
To find out more or express your interest in this suburb, get in touch with our property team at 1300 141 270.
It’s well-known that the pandemic triggered an inflation event in Australia and many other parts of the world. Demand for many goods and services increased, and petrol production slowed down, which put pressure on costs across the board.
One of the worst affected industries was construction, which saw prices rise astronomically thanks to a squeeze on supply chains, materials, labour and interest rates. Sadly, this saw a number of companies become insolvent because they were ill-equipped to manage increased costs
The good news for anyone who wants to build a home, develop property or buy off the plan is that there appears to be light at the end of the tunnel.
Here is some information about inflation and interest rates as they stand in Australia right now, and what this means for the property market.
News on inflation and construction costs
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) reported that annual consumer price index inflation was 6% in the June quarter. In comparison, 7% was recorded in the March quarter and inflation peaked at 7.8% in the December quarter of last year.
The ABS’s latest figures also place the price growth of new dwellings at 7.8%, well down from the high in September 2022 of 20.7%. Researchers credit the easing of growth to levelling material costs and improved availability of goods and labour.
Meanwhile, CoreLogic’s Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) reported that construction cost growth slowed to 0.7% in the June quarter; a big improvement on the 4.7% increase seen in the September quarter last year.
So while prices are still rising, the trajectory is levelling out. This brings more certainty to builders and homebuyers.
Interest rates and construction
Interest rates have now been on hold for two consecutive months. The Reserve Bank stated at the start of August that smaller-than-expected consumer price increases over the last quarter and a drop in retail sales during June meant they did not feel an additional increase was warranted.
Interest rates are still reasonably high and while it’s not confirmed that they won’t rise again, Deloitte Access Economics Partner Stephen Smith was quoted as saying that the Australian economy has softened dramatically, the pace of inflation has peaked and medium-term inflation expectations are not rising. He says that in this context, there shouldn’t be further interest rate increases in Australia.
A steadying of interest rates and the hope of decreases in the not-too-distant future is good news for the construction industry. It means projects will be easier to plan for and budgets easier to stick to. What’s more, borrowing costs will be steadier and more predictable.
What this means for the property market
As Michael Yardney recently explained on his Property Update website, high inflation doesn’t necessarily mean property prices will drop or the property market will crash. Yes, values may settle, but historically inflation doesn’t result in them falling.
Some sources predict that inflation won’t drop into the 2-3 per cent range that the Reserve Bank of Australia aims for until 2025, while others predict a drop to 2.9% in 2024. If past trends are anything to go by, this is when people will become more active again, and prices will begin to shoot up once more.
As Michael Yarndey also points out, “Investors should recognise that times like this create tremendous opportunities, a window of opportunity is currently available that smart property buyers are taking advantage of.” His advice to investors is that now is a good time to purchase quality assets; A-grade properties in locations where value is likely to hold steady.
It all comes down to understanding how property markets work, choosing wisely and having a clear plan. With inflation and interest rates still relatively high, this may be the perfect time to invest. You can take advantage of a slower period in the market and enjoy returns when buying activity ramps up in the future.
If you do decide to go ahead with investing, here are two quick pieces of advice:
- Work with an experienced broker to secure a loan that will work for you, even if interest rates increase again.
- If you’re buying off the plan, make sure the developer and builder have a great track record and robust measures in place to protect your investment.
If you’d like to explore property investment options for 2023, visit Landen’s Estates, or call 1300 526 336 to get in touch with us today.