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<p>Award-winning architectural and urban design practice Cottee Parker has announced its trans-Tasman expansion.</p><p>Its first international studio, the firm’s New Zealand operations will be based in Auckland and led by industry leader and equity director David Thornton, with plans to expand into Aotearoa.</p><p>The practice has a reputation for innovative architecture, world-class mixed-use precincts, and exceptional living spaces, which will only be enhanced by its experienced local team.</p><p>“Our growth into New Zealand will only strengthen the practice's expertise across the mixed-use, hotel, residential and commercial sectors, enhancing our ability to service our existing client base of developers and commercial clients,” Cottee Parker managing director Matthew Caswell, pictured above with Thornton, said.</p><p>The new Auckland studio launches with full design services including architecture, urban design, master planning, interior design and BIM management</p><p>“We have already attracted some of New Zealand's best design talent to ensure our New Zealand clients get the exemplary level of service our Australian partners have come to expect,” Caswell said.</p><p>“With studios across Australasia's major cities, including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, we are thrilled to add Auckland to the fold and look forward to becoming a trusted design partner to our Kiwi stakeholders.”</p><p>The New Zealand studio will be led by the firm’s newest equity director, David Thornton.</p><p>No stranger to the local market, Thornton has enjoyed a career spanning more than 25 years, building a reputation for exemplary standards in both large and small-scale project with his ability to get the best out of his team.</p><p>Thornton has a legacy of leading mixed-use, retail, commercial and residential projects, as well as developing retail master-planning with strategic outcomes that have been the catalyst for bringing international brands to New Zealand's shores.</p><p>As a former managing principal and director of a global architecture practice, he is excited to turn his hand to accelerating Cottee Parker's presence and success in the New Zealand market.</p><p>“After nearly three decades in the practice of architecture, it is exciting to be launching a studio as well renowned as Cottee Parker in New Zealand,” Thornton said.</p><p>“As the practice's first international office, the Auckland team is looking forward to collaborating with our Australian studios to deliver design solutions that provide both international reach sought by New Zealand clients with the confidence of local expertise and delivery capability.</p><p>“I am humbled to stand alongside an exceptional team of architects and designers who all share in Cottee Parker's vision and culture of delivering creative design solutions with sustainable, commercially sensitive outcomes.”&nbsp;</p><hr><p><br></p><p><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://www.cotteeparker.com.au/" data-mce-href="https://www.cotteeparker.com.au/">Cottee Parker</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.</strong></p>

Architectural and urban design practice Cottee Parker is opening its first office in New Zealand and has announced a new director to head up the Kiwi operations…

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<p>Concrete is the world’s most popular construction material—it allows you to design and build with complete confidence.</p><p>It is used everywhere from high-rise towers, residential houses and commercial buildings to infrastructure projects such as solar, wind and hydro power generation, tunnels, dams, airports, highways and roads.</p><p>Concrete is fluid and can be engineered and formed to exact design and then sets strong for life.</p><p>Across all aspects of construction, concrete allows architects and engineers to design and plan, quantity surveyors to estimate and cost, builders to construct and regulators to ensure compliance with confidence.</p><p>As well, concrete is sustainable now and into the future. Across its whole life cycle, concrete is a remarkably sustainable construction material from the sourcing of raw materials, the design and operation of buildings and to end-of-life re-use or recycling.&nbsp;</p><p>Concrete is locally manufactured which supports the local industry, community, and employment and is highly efficient with minimal onsite waste which reduces the impact of transportation.</p><p>Concrete is 100 per cent recyclable and uses recycled materials in manufacture.</p><p>It naturally absorbs carbon from the atmosphere throughout its life, with global studies demonstrating up to a third of the original CO2 emissions are re-absorbed.</p><p>With concrete you are futureproofing your build and futureproofing Australia.</p><p>Concrete is Australia’s locally manufactured, proven, durable and resilient construction material that just gets stronger over time.</p><p>It is trusted to build the places in which we live, work and play and to construct the infrastructure that we rely on now and into the future.</p><p>Importantly, concrete is a safe and secure construction choice. Concrete is futureproof against natural deterioration, extremes of weather and climate, the ravages of fires, floods, and cyclones.</p><p>Concrete offers excellent fire resistance, it does not burn or give off toxic fumes and when exposed to fire has a slow rate of heat transfer, protecting the building.</p><p>With concrete you know you are building something that is safe and solid, not only for today but for future generations to come.”</p><hr><p><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://www.ccaa.com.au/" data-mce-href="https://www.ccaa.com.au/">CCAA</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.</strong></p>

Concrete is the world’s most popular construction material for good reason, bringing confidence to builds of all types, now and in the future...

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<p>When it comes to staging a development or build, one of the biggest decisions builders and developers face is whether to <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/display-homes" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/display-homes">rent</a> or <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/display-homes" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/display-homes">buy</a> furniture. While there are pros and cons to both options, there are several reasons why renting furniture can be a smart choice.</p><h2>Cost Savings</h2><p><br>One of the main reasons builders and developers choose to rent furniture is cost savings. Buying furniture can be expensive and builders and developers may not want to invest a lot of money in furniture that they may only need for a short period of time. Renting furniture can be a more cost-effective solution, as they only need to pay for the rental period and return the furniture once the project is complete.</p><div id="1JS4UalMiDrj5479QbYGnC"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/RFUzxu5aJJ4dNn0PX46aS/02f1fbedf8e4c9b54a36a736d1910a84/Styled_Furnished_by_Valiant_33_Consett_St_Concord_West_High_Living_4__1_.jpg" alt="Valiant Interiors Consett" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/RFUzxu5aJJ4dNn0PX46aS/02f1fbedf8e4c9b54a36a736d1910a84/Styled_Furnished_by_Valiant_33_Consett_St_Concord_West_High_Living_4__1_.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>Flexibility</h2><p><br>Another advantage of renting furniture is flexibility. Builders and developers may need to stage a property for sale or rental and their furniture needs may vary depending on the property and its target market. Renting furniture allows for greater flexibility in choosing and changing furniture to meet these needs. This can be particularly useful when staging a property for different buyers, as different furniture styles and arrangements may be necessary.</p><div id="4jrbBm25aEt3A6iiF7HCv8"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5wbiFreGicdimtHmz44o6Q/3795575795b206a1531df09933de8f39/Styled_and_furnished_by_Valiant_Onxy-Carmichael-Build-62.jpg" alt="Valiant Interiors Onxy" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5wbiFreGicdimtHmz44o6Q/3795575795b206a1531df09933de8f39/Styled_and_furnished_by_Valiant_Onxy-Carmichael-Build-62.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>Expertise</h2><p><br>Furniture rental companies have expertise in designing and furnishing spaces. Builders and developers can take advantage of this expertise to create spaces that are attractive, functional and appealing to their target market. Many furniture rental companies, such as <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/">Valiant Interiors</a>, offer design services and <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/join-trade-benefits-program" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/join-trade-benefits-program">trade benefits</a> can help builders and developers choose the right furniture for their project.</p><div id="7H48OamSX1Qem8WVFxrFpZ"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/44Fp6bAIxGdi2dG8d8I4ry/b090e72305cc84054a242a9399e80861/Styled_Furnished_by_Valiant_Menangle_Road_Menangle_2568_High_kitchen_Dining-81.jpg" alt="Valiant Interiors Menangle" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/44Fp6bAIxGdi2dG8d8I4ry/b090e72305cc84054a242a9399e80861/Styled_Furnished_by_Valiant_Menangle_Road_Menangle_2568_High_kitchen_Dining-81.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>Convenience</h2><p><br>Renting furniture is a convenient solution for builders and developers who may not have the time or resources to source and purchase furniture themselves. Furniture rental companies can deliver and install furniture, saving builders and developers time and effort. This can be particularly useful for large-scale projects or for those who are managing multiple projects at once.</p><div id="5HpiFvqQa2BeI5wqG7T2oK"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/73xzNL8UXlNjdlgI3Bt1WV/66eafe90cfcfab34caa76a02344882e2/Styled_and_furnished_by_Valiant_Onyx_by_Carmichael-Build-22.jpg" alt="Valiant Interiors Onyx Carmichael" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/73xzNL8UXlNjdlgI3Bt1WV/66eafe90cfcfab34caa76a02344882e2/Styled_and_furnished_by_Valiant_Onyx_by_Carmichael-Build-22.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>Sustainability</h2><p><br>Renting furniture can also be a more sustainable solution than buying new furniture for each project. Many furniture rental companies have <a href="https://valiant.com.au/sustainability" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/sustainability">sustainability initiatives</a> and can offer environmentally friendly options. By renting furniture, builders and developers can reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices in their industry.</p><p>Renting furniture can be a smart choice for builders and developers looking for cost-effective, flexible, and convenient solutions for staging their properties. With the expertise of furniture rental companies such as <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/our-services" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/our-services">Valiant Interiors</a>, you can create spaces that are functional, attractive and appealing to your target market. Additionally, by renting furniture, builders and developers can reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices in their industry.&nbsp;</p><p>If you’re a builder or developer, consider renting furniture for your next project and see the benefits for yourself. Learn more about <a href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/join-trade-benefits-program" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/interiors/join-trade-benefits-program">Valiant Interiors Trade Benefits Program here</a><br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://valiant.com.au/" data-mce-href="https://valiant.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Valiant Interiors</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.&nbsp;</strong></p>

When it comes to staging a development or build, one of the biggest decisions builders and developers face is whether to rent or buy furniture. While there are pros and cons to both options, there are several reasons why renting furniture can be a smart choice.

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<p>You can insure yourself against many risks when it comes to property development, but builder insolvency is not one of them.</p><p>Nevertheless, smart developers are always taking steps to reduce their exposure, exclusively engaging builders with a proven track record and conducting detailed financial due diligence checks before awarding the contract.</p><p>Yet despite such scrutiny, many have still suffered significant losses. There is a huge gap in this process.</p><h2>Audits can’t predict risks that may arise during your build</h2><p><br>The limitation of these checks is that they are all historical, representative of a ‘point in time’ only and rarely providing any real insight into any looming cash shortfalls.</p><p>Even if available resources appear sufficient at the time of contract award, no audit can forecast factors that may negatively impact a project linked to your builder during the construction of your project.</p><p>As recent events have shown, even builders with great reputations are not immune to external market forces, particularly when operating under onerous contract terms.</p><h2>It can be difficult for builders to ‘prove’ that they are trouble-free</h2><p><br>Builders are also dealing with the fallout of insolvency; the issues of some causing all to be tarred with the same brush.</p><p>Even those in a great financial position are in a constant battle to ‘prove it’. Without transparency over how client funds are being managed, developers can never be sure.</p><p>As tricky as it is, the cost of getting it wrong can be immense.</p><p>It’s not just having to pay subcontractors and suppliers again; reconciling transactions and substantiating creditor claims is a painstaking task and with every month that passes, holding costs compound and developer equity diminishes.</p><div id="26jZqGtmrnGrNwUJxlZCpg"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2u1NOhFAA3AKr9xleLADPv/6c267273c9d16c2ee67cf080920b9cbc/IPEX_Mid_Jan_30.jpg" alt="Ipex payments for property developers" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2u1NOhFAA3AKr9xleLADPv/6c267273c9d16c2ee67cf080920b9cbc/IPEX_Mid_Jan_30.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>Reducing risk means appointing a solvent builder and protecting project funds during your build</h2><p><br>No one can predict what future challenges your builder may encounter, so the objective must be to:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><p>Appoint a builder who is financially secure now, and</p></li><li><p>Protect your funds against any potential builder cash-flow issues for the entire duration of your build.</p></li></ul><p>Enter IPEX.&nbsp;</p><p>IPEX is an online payment platform that secures funds intended for a specific project, ensuring that progress payments can be used only to pay approved sub-contractors and suppliers linked to that project.</p><p>IPEX provides developers with visibility over who has been paid and when, without sharing a builders’ commercially sensitive information.</p><p>Given these restrictions, any builder willing to operate within the IPEX framework is essentially confirming what the audits can’t—that they have no intention of using your money to pay other developers’ bills.</p><p>Even if your builder did experience cash-flow issues post-contract award, your funds remain secure as an IPEX account can’t be ‘borrowed’ from.</p><p>And should they become insolvent before practical completion, the impact is minimised as:</p><ul><li><p>Any progress payment made via the IPEX platform has either been distributed to approved parties or remains in the account, and&nbsp;&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>The developer may replace the builder as trustee of the project funds, gaining full visibility of all previous transactions and the ability to make payments directly to suppliers and subcontractors, reducing construction delays, and holding costs.</p></li></ul><div id="5MsqvgNKnjY1SQDFLhkuQa"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6YgAUhBWnaxfLCIWhsg2Jc/dace8fc1172a02e9c20b0908f8ad512f/Copy_of_IPEX_Mid_3_Jan_30.jpg" alt="Ipex payments for construction industry" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6YgAUhBWnaxfLCIWhsg2Jc/dace8fc1172a02e9c20b0908f8ad512f/Copy_of_IPEX_Mid_3_Jan_30.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><h2>IPEX solves a huge problem for developers, but what do builders think?</h2><p><br>Although developers (and lenders) can mandate the use of IPEX as a condition of winning the contract, most would prefer that their builder also buys in.</p><p>Whilst some financially secure builders are proactively employing IPEX as a means of differentiating their bid from competitors, the additional security and transparency IPEX provides has also created an opportunity to revise several ‘standard’ payment practices to the point of mutual benefit.</p><p>So, you can either wait for someone to invent insolvency insurance, or <em>just start protecting your project funds</em>.&nbsp;</p><p>To find out if IPEX can be implemented on your next project, get in touch: <a href="https://ipex.com.au/ipex-sign-up/ipex-developer-eoi/" data-mce-href="https://ipex.com.au/ipex-sign-up/ipex-developer-eoi/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://ipex.com.au/ipex-sign-up/ipex-developer-eoi/</a>&nbsp;</p><p>You can also check out developer and builder case studies here: <a href="https://ipex.com.au/case-studies/" data-mce-href="https://ipex.com.au/case-studies/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://ipex.com.au/case-studies/</a><br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://ipex.com.au/" data-mce-href="https://ipex.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IPEX</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p id="section-3">When it comes to selling off-the-plan developments, Meriton knows how to get it right. And one of their secret weapons? DisplaySweet. The property technology innovator has been working with Meriton for more than five years, providing the exceptional technology within their showrooms, which has allowed buyers to gain the best possible insight into how their future apartment will look.</p><p>James Sialepis, Company Director at Meriton, said, “Without DisplaySweet, our apartments simply wouldn't sell as quickly as they do. We’ve had a long-standing relationship with DisplaySweet providing the exceptional technology within our showrooms for over five years, across NSW and Queensland.”</p><p><a href="#section-2" data-mce-href="#section-2">(<strong>&gt;&gt; SEE showroom examples below</strong>)</a></p><p>Meriton uses the DisplaySweet platform to empower sales agents to control the presentation and showcase all elements of a project intuitively, from movies to 3D plans and associated CGIs with real-time data and hold presentations in person or remotely.</p><p>Gone are the days of stagnant printed collateral. DisplaySweet transforms TVs into digital canvases to present the right information at the right time and touch screens that provide buyers a more engaging and personalised experience.</p><p>“The ultimate sales tool for our projects is property technology like the touch screens we utilise, integrated with the DisplaySweet app, so that our sales agents can engage with buyers in real-time and view our buildings interactively in person,” Sialepis said.</p><p>But it doesn’t stop there. By connecting the app to a physical model’s lighting system, the Meriton sales experience is even more informative and effective.</p><h2>Ultimate sales tool</h2><p><br>Meriton’s partnership with DisplaySweet has been a game-changer for their sales process and it’s not hard to see why. The DisplaySweet platform is the ultimate sales tool for off-the-plan developments and the clear leader in the market, used by the best developers across Australia, UK and the US with a staggering 4 out of the 5 highest off-the-plan sales prices in Australia last year all using the platform to achieve their results.</p><p>A key reason for the DisplaySweet platform being the preferred choice by the leading developers is the focus on the intricate details that only those performing at their peak in the industry appreciate. “Part of what keeps us coming back is their great attention to detail,” Sialepis said.</p><p>Every developer, sales process and agent is different; flexibility and detail to those unique details are key to the platform’s effectiveness.</p><p id="section-2">Check out some of the recent collaborations between DisplaySweet and Meriton below.</p><div id="6rHeDZvisj2uQlWWn9Odla"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1DG61i8fst85NfgkuST971/8dd482b2c0257742fd92e9b5fa8d06ab/Meriton_Viciniti_DisplaySweet_06.jpg" alt="Viciniti, Meriton" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1DG61i8fst85NfgkuST971/8dd482b2c0257742fd92e9b5fa8d06ab/Meriton_Viciniti_DisplaySweet_06.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Viciniti, Meriton.<br><br></span></div></div><div id="6bK1SqOeRyUrOJMgjwWLgJ"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7LyTMQ7zaRlDuLzl4rXtrq/e63c20caf77dfbe88ded5fc24d4e0c07/Meriton_Trilogy_DisplaySweet_04.jpg" alt="Trilogy, Meriton" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7LyTMQ7zaRlDuLzl4rXtrq/e63c20caf77dfbe88ded5fc24d4e0c07/Meriton_Trilogy_DisplaySweet_04.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;"><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Trilogy, Meriton.<br><br></span></span><div id="5CmCUb1CkKYsOfDxLTKT9k"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2cQrP2wwvGECv04nI5oRlu/81295cbfc9a66c80107a366c2492589a/Meriton_180_George_DisplaySweet_01.jpg" alt="180 George, Meriton" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2cQrP2wwvGECv04nI5oRlu/81295cbfc9a66c80107a366c2492589a/Meriton_180_George_DisplaySweet_01.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;"><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ 180 George, Meriton.<br><br></span></span><div id="2YShQuCIshKqWLoHx8ie35"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/vKQZ4cVkYa3Lp45wnr0LH/9c07603f1cf43fbd82e80f01fc071b20/Meriton_Eminence_DisplaySweet_01.jpg" alt="Eminence, Meriton" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/vKQZ4cVkYa3Lp45wnr0LH/9c07603f1cf43fbd82e80f01fc071b20/Meriton_Eminence_DisplaySweet_01.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;"><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Eminence, Meriton.<br><br></span></span><div id="681hE52Id6hBDuGNDGvRqM"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5LuPbN7VP1oCQyu49iMLIo/7668fc50782331a19f223f55c07b53ff/Meriton_The_Atrium_DisplaySweet01.jpg" alt="The Atrium, Meriton." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5LuPbN7VP1oCQyu49iMLIo/7668fc50782331a19f223f55c07b53ff/Meriton_The_Atrium_DisplaySweet01.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;"><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The Atrium, Meriton.<br><br></span></span><div id="4A7WnEWETI2GTUX4hvbEbP"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7renwTkte3P1VldqK0bNgB/89c369266f57f6067a74cc7dac71071c/Meriton_Allegra_DisplaySweet02.jpg" alt="Allegra, Meriton." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7renwTkte3P1VldqK0bNgB/89c369266f57f6067a74cc7dac71071c/Meriton_Allegra_DisplaySweet02.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;"><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Allegra, Meriton.<br><br></span></span><div id="3kpolY984AiRHtz3mylaLK"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7aUPieyyVCN9LOHvtI4lLk/4bda942909a4238bcb178b772e9d12a7/Meriton_PagewoodCentro_DisplaySweet03.jpg" alt="Pagewood Centro, Meriton." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7aUPieyyVCN9LOHvtI4lLk/4bda942909a4238bcb178b772e9d12a7/Meriton_PagewoodCentro_DisplaySweet03.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ Pagewood Centro, Meriton.<br><br></span></div><p>The image at the top of the page is Meriton’s Aston.<br><a href="#section-3" data-mce-href="#section-3">(&gt;&gt; Jump back up)</a></p><p>To discover more about the DisplaySweet platform, visit their website at <a href="https://www.displaysweet.com/" data-mce-href="https://www.displaysweet.com/">https://www.displaysweet.com/</a><br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a data-mce-href="https://www.displaysweet.com/" href="https://www.displaysweet.com/" target="_blank">DisplaySweet</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.&nbsp;</strong><br data-mce-bogus="1"></p><p><a href="https://www.displaysweet.com/" data-mce-href="https://www.displaysweet.com/"></a></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

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<p>Industry-leading project marketing and advisory group Position Property has been inducted into the prestigious Project Marketing Agency of the Year Hall of Fame at the Australasian Real Estate Results Awards after achieving more than 750 sales during 2022.</p><p>Position Property had been recognised with the Project Marketing award for four consecutive years prior to the latest honour this week.</p><p>Representing the best of the best among independent real estate agencies and agents across Australia and New Zealand, Position Property’s entry into the Hall of Fame reflects the group’s unrivalled knowledge of Queensland’s booming property development sector.</p><p>Position Property has serviced south-east Queensland for more than 23 years, providing a comprehensive range of property services for residential property developers – from site assessment and selection through to sales strategy, settlement and beyond.</p><p>It has been responsible for the sell-out success of many of Brisbane’s most renowned residential developments, and more recently have worked closely with a range of developers to achieve the significant project construction milestone including The Lanes, West End with Pradella Developments and Brickworks Park, Alderley with CDL Australia.</p><div id="5ERNo5iEcIVUcZllINnm0V"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6bXZ9BKnwnZ5q6Sae0N8Lu/dca6bc7792ee8a204f73d12a63e9f688/1.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/6bXZ9BKnwnZ5q6Sae0N8Lu/dca6bc7792ee8a204f73d12a63e9f688/1.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The Lanes, West End.<br><br></span></div></div><p>Position Property director Richard Lawrence said the agency’s Hall of Fame acknowledgment reflected its “unmatched knowledge of the ever-changing market for developers operating in south-east Queensland”.</p><p>“It’s incredible to have received such a prestigious award and we are thankful to the RER Network for its continued support and recognition,” Lawrence said.</p><p>“This achievement is a true reflection of the team's dedication and commitment to the individual needs of our clients and we’re proud of the amazing results we have achieved to date.</p><p>“As south-east Queensland ushers in this exciting new era in the lead up to the 2032 Olympic Games, the opportunities for developers are endless. We look forward to bringing our unique consultative offering to emerging developers whose innovative plans will leave a legacy for our growing region.”</p><p>Real Estate Results Network chief executive Michael Sheargold said the newly created Hall of Fame award could not have gone to a more deserving, hard-working team.</p><div id="34p1nFEYp94mYeQfGaUHjq"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3zI0wNs3HeNjtTovVv8fu6/0bc3e79a3e34a0f6a14635ed03ef04d2/2.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3zI0wNs3HeNjtTovVv8fu6/0bc3e79a3e34a0f6a14635ed03ef04d2/2.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The Brickworks Park, Alderley.<br><br></span></div></div><p>“I’ve seen Position Property go from strength to strength in how they are adding extraordinary value to developers in the Brisbane market,” Sheargold said.</p><p>"As a full-service agency their impressive marketing strategies and advanced selling systems also help connect people with the right property.”</p><p>Position Property offers a suite of consulting services for residential property developers in southeast Queensland to ensure the financial feasibility, market acceptance and product fit of new projects within Brisbane’s CBD and surrounds.</p><p>With sales to date totalling a market value of more than $5.2 billion, Position Property is south-east Queensland’s leading independent project marketing and residential development consultancy.&nbsp; <br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://www.positionproperty.com.au/project-marketing/project-marketing" data-mce-href="https://www.positionproperty.com.au/project-marketing/project-marketing">Position Property</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.</strong></p>

Industry-leading project marketing and advisory group Position Property has been inducted into the Project Marketing Agency of the Year Hall of Fame after achieving more than 750 sales during 2022…

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<p>The goal of residents, managers and developers is to foster neighbourly connection and community.</p><p>To assist in this development of relationships, organisations have implemented various measures to help improve relations between residents, building management and the wider community.</p><p>Employing numerous years of experience within the field of owners corporation management, Engine’s role is to maintain buildings, ensure their relevance and value into the future, foster community and provide an optimal living experience for the residents of buildings across Melbourne.</p><p>This also encourages the use of amenities such as an onsite gym, rooftop gardens and barbecue areas with a captivating view of the CBD.</p><p>In a recent conversation with <em>The Urban Developer</em>, managing director Andy Dawson described the critical role that technology plays in the liveability of a building and how it has helped improve relations with residents in the recently completed Cowper Residences.</p><h2>Immediate Connectivity</h2><p><br>Resident application Erin Living creates the first step in the connection between residents and the building management.</p><p>Residents’ first interaction with Engine is facilitated by the Erin app’s move-in functionality, starting a digital dialogue.</p><p>From this, residents can then access information on every level with regards to all aspects of building operation, amenities available and booking procedures, while also promptly addressing queries that they may face when moving into a new property.</p><p>“Everything is e-delivered as a part of their welcome pack. In this pack, they are provided details about how to download the Erin app. The app has already been populated to remove a lot of the guesswork new residents may face,” Dawson said.</p><p>From this first move-in experience, a dialogue has been started with each resident that paves the way for regular communication relating to every facet of their experience in that building.</p><h2>Dedicated Community Management</h2><p><br>Once the residents have been provided with this material via the app, they are then introduced digitally to Engine’s dedicated events and community development manager.</p><p>By being able to effectively and immediately communicate to the residents, Engine’s events and community development manager&nbsp;can provide updates about the building in one centralised location. This is done to ensure residents are across all planned events, functions, and activities, which all aids in creating community.</p><p>Engine has observed that this is seen and appreciated by the residents as quite a personal interaction as they learn how to get the most out of living in the building.</p><p>This also encourages the usage of amenities such as the onsite gym or rooftop communal garden with captivating views of the CBD.</p><p>Ongoing dialogue and information exchange about external community facilities, restaurants, and retail sites that are within the immediate vicinity of Cowper Residences exists as well.</p><p>Whether this is a beer-tasting event at Hop Nation, the latest furniture releases from Yellow Diva or a pop-up exhibition from resident artist Arjuna Watson.</p><p>If you would like to learn more about how Engine can provide tailored owners corporations management solutions for your development, get in touch <a href="https://www.enginepropertygroup.com.au/contact-us" data-mce-href="https://www.enginepropertygroup.com.au/contact-us">here.<br></a></p><hr><p><br></p><p><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://www.enginepropertygroup.com.au/contact-us" data-mce-href="https://www.enginepropertygroup.com.au/contact-us">Engine Property Group</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.</strong></p>

The goal of residents, managers and developers is to foster neighbourly connection and community.
To assist in this development of relationships, organisations have implemented various measures to help improve relations between residents, building management and the wider community.


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<p>MondoClad was the product of choice for building contractor CJ Duncan when it replaced the combustible cladding at Pyrmont’s Wharf Apartments in Sydney.</p><p>CJ Duncan is a building contractor specialising in remedial and insurance facade solutions, fitouts and refurbishments. In April 2021 it was awarded the contract to replace the combustible cladding at Sydney Wharf Apartments, 56-56a Pirrama Road, Pyrmont, working with project manager RHM Consultants.</p><p>The building had been issued with a fire order by the City of Sydney Council, CJ Duncan’s head of pre-construction Josh Black said. “This is happening all over the place, so it’s not unusual,” he said.</p><p>“It sounds a bit scary but when combustible cladding was banned [in August 2018] the council started issuing fire orders on buildings that were known to have the newly banned combustible cladding.”</p><p>The entire six-storey building needed to be overhauled. “Literally every facade was affected,” Black said.</p><p>“There is an unusual rooftop arrangement with terraces built into the rooftops for the penthouse apartments. They were littered with it, and it was in the awnings, the balconies. You name it, it was extensive.”</p><p>All up, the project required about 4000sq m of new cladding. But its proximity to the waterfront meant that choosing the best option for the replacement was vital.</p><p>“You need a high-quality product because it is obviously quite a harsh environment, being so close to saltwater and sea spray,” Black said.</p><p>“HVG Facades’ MondoClad uses a superior alloy to its competitors. It’s a 5000 series aluminium alloy that is higher quality and, as a result, can withstand the elements.”</p><p>A bonus was the opportunity to colour match. “It was a unique colour on the building and HVG Facades was able to provide an identical match,” Black said. “Part of the fire order is that you can’t change anything, so having to match the colour is very important.”</p><p>If this hadn’t been possible, the contractor would have had to lodge a DA (development application), which would then lead to “a whole world of hurt”, Black said.</p><div id="7zj4hhzinS2nqf3jalhZ7g"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1d2zO2hHUNFwnjGdNlpd6T/371302a549be43f7ca1c2cd712caa78c/MondoClad_at_Sydney_Wharf_Apartments__1_.jpg" alt="Sydney Wharf Apartments with HVG Facades MondoClad in use." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1d2zO2hHUNFwnjGdNlpd6T/371302a549be43f7ca1c2cd712caa78c/MondoClad_at_Sydney_Wharf_Apartments__1_.jpg"></picture><h2><br>Project execution<br></h2></div><p><br>With MondoClad selected, the recladding was an incremental process. Hampered by bad weather and Covid lockdowns, the project took longer than expected, as it was not simply a case of stripping off all the original cladding and then starting from scratch.</p><p>“You have to take the combustible cladding off before getting the MondoClad on, but you can’t leave the building exposed for long periods of time, because you’ll get water ingress and damage,” Black said.</p><p>“So, we just strip whatever we believe we can replace within the time and keep our eye on the weather like a hawk.”</p><p>Black said he had seen “pretty abhorrent” practices in the past where cladding had been affixed with adhesive or, even, double-sided tape. “We’ve been to projects where we’ve seen panels just fall off the building,” he said.</p><p>Fortunately, standards have changed and now all the individual panels are mechanically fixed with screws.</p><p>To reduce wastage, the crew used a LiDAR (light detection and radar) survey, which gives a three-dimensional image of the building. “Then we looked at the existing panel sizes and used what’s called a ‘nesting program’ that speaks to the 3D CAD (computer-aided design) drawings that we create. It effectively uses artificial intelligence to optimally match the sheet sizes to the build panel sizes,” Black said.</p><p>In a similar vein, Black has nothing but praise for HVG Facades’ commitment to waste reduction via its recycling program, EnviroSmart, which not only removes and recycles aluminium composite panels, but is also partnered with Carbon Positive Australia to donate and plant trees on behalf of every qualified project using the program.</p><p>“The combustible cladding is made up of aluminium and a polyethylene core and it’s this plastic core that is the combustible element,” Black said. “They pull the aluminium skin off the core, recycle the polyethylene into safe products and recycle the aluminium.”</p><p>It’s a great improvement in the process, he said. “When we first started doing this work—and we were one of the first builders to do combustible cladding work—it just all went into a skip bin, which was hard to watch.”</p><div id="4bbNGV08XfzcymBfSuejhI"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3m2a1GMBy2MEsVB3coYtZ2/1eb725a031c9483621f07d755cdbb3ca/MondoClad_at_Sydney_Wharf_Apartments__2_.jpg" alt=" MondoClad cladding in use at Sydney Wharf Apartments." data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/3m2a1GMBy2MEsVB3coYtZ2/1eb725a031c9483621f07d755cdbb3ca/MondoClad_at_Sydney_Wharf_Apartments__2_.jpg"></picture></div><h2><br>Competitive</h2><p><br>Combustible cladding replacement has only been happening for around four years, but Black said MondoClad had swiftly become CJ Duncan’s go-to product. “We use it predominantly. It’s the vast majority of the cladding that we use in our projects.</p><p>“Certainly, it’s cost competitive. Obviously, we wouldn’t be buying it if it were expensive.”</p><p>But it was the combination of a high-quality product with HVG Facades’ excellent customer service that sealed the deal, he said.</p><p>“Their service is fantastic; the team is great. We can call them up and one of their technical specialists will be onsite—in some instances the next day—colour matching, telling us what colours we need, what stock availability they’ve got and what the lead times are if they don’t have stock availability. They really go above and beyond.”<br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://hvgfacades.com.au/mondoclad/" data-mce-href="https://hvgfacades.com.au/mondoclad/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">HVG Facades</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.&nbsp;</strong></p>

MondoClad was the product of choice for building contractor CJ Duncan when it replaced the combustible cladding at Pyrmont’s Wharf Apartments in Sydney...

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<p>The raw, monumental qualities of concrete have been used to define an award-winning home on Victoria’s Surf Coast, south-west of Melbourne.&nbsp;</p><hr><h2><br>At a glance&nbsp;</h2><p><strong><br>Project:</strong> Torquay House&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Architect:</strong> Auhaus Architecture&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Main concrete elements:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><ul><li><p>Off-form concrete walls [interior and exterior]</p></li><li><p>Off-form floors and kitchen benchtops [polished]</p></li></ul><p><strong>Photography:</strong> Derek Swalwell&nbsp;</p><hr><div id="1cJqUkqCr9s3YeoaioqFsX"><div><div id="1cJqUkqCr9s3YeoaioqFsX"><br data-mce-bogus="1"></div><div><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5fN8eWVvt5cJp5Cin94eqq/73fd389f6eb617a805b3ce493732da67/_CCAA_mid_Oct_27__800___450px_.jpg" alt="null" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5fN8eWVvt5cJp5Cin94eqq/73fd389f6eb617a805b3ce493732da67/_CCAA_mid_Oct_27__800___450px_.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div></div><h2>The challenge&nbsp;&nbsp;<br></h2></div><p><br>To design a unique home that is energy efficient, low maintenance and functional, and at the same time is stunningly beautiful and fits with the client’s skills as a concreter.&nbsp;</p><h2>Solution and outcome&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2><p><br>Designed by Kate Fitzpatrick and Ben Stibbard of Auhaus Architecture, the Torquay House combines raw, grey concrete finishes, natural hardwood surfaces and the expansive use of glazing to create a home that is as unique and inspiring as it is functional and low maintenance.</p><p>Every concrete feature in the home, from the fireplace and kitchen benchtops to walls, polished floors and ceilings, is off-form, and for one simple [and practical] reason—the owner is a concreter.</p><p>Ben Stibbard said the home’s design deliberately played to the owner’s core skills and the Auhaus Architecture’s philosophy.</p><p>“We design from fundamental principles—light, orientation, airflow. They’re our starting point for any project,” he said.</p><div id="5ocDSWGHXtUOQJEfDTCJcZ"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7ht0hpLtlkhghARGYYOTc/d1e3903ce04acff3acb0ab2a8e92dcd2/CCAA_Mid_3_Article_Aug_24.jpg" alt="Concrete House Torquay" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/7ht0hpLtlkhghARGYYOTc/d1e3903ce04acff3acb0ab2a8e92dcd2/CCAA_Mid_3_Article_Aug_24.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><p>Tightly hemmed in by suburban houses but backing on to wetlands and a golf course, the Torquay House is treated&nbsp; as a walled sanctuary, opening up into itself.</p><p>At street level, an open carport and art studio above invite filtered views through battened hardwood.</p><p>Entry is via a portal in the concrete wall, leading into a small, secluded courtyard that acts as an antechamber to the more private areas of the house.</p><p>Inside, the space immediately opens into a double-height gallery, glazed on one side to reveal the plan, which wraps around a large central courtyard.</p><p>Exposed concrete walls feature inside and out, with the imprint of ply formwork testament to the off-form construction.</p><p>An element of refinement has been added, with Z-bar holes highlighted via the use of brass tubing, cut flush to the surface and sealed with brass caps.</p><div id="6XiRjqOTAXc14bhbMZ8kOO"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Pecra10aeHwH4JtHo9Szl/28dc4133b4c3589d842a8718ae481596/CCAA_Mid_1_Article_Aug_24.jpg" alt="Concrete House Torquay 2" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/2Pecra10aeHwH4JtHo9Szl/28dc4133b4c3589d842a8718ae481596/CCAA_Mid_1_Article_Aug_24.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><p>The ground floor is built on two slabs, one on top of the other. The first slab is a structural slab while the second carries the hydronic floor heating.</p><p>A layer of rigid insulation is sandwiched between the two to prevent heat loss through the structural slab into the ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>This meticulous approach maximises the heating efficiency of the hydronic system, with the home interior reaching a comfortable temperature in a matter of hours.</p><p>The orientation of the home and positioning of the large windows, coupled with the employment of wide concrete eaves, also contributes to the design’s thermal efficiency by moderating the ingress of the sun’s warmth, according to the season.&nbsp;</p><p>The ceilings over the ground-floor living zones feature exposed concrete beams in a cross-over pattern, infilled with natural hardwood boards that hide the services and insulation and add to the overall appearance.</p><p>Indeed, timber is used judiciously throughout the home—as insulated wall cladding, window framing and screening elements—both to reduce the scale of the overall design to something more domestic and to create textural balance.</p><p>Adding another element of ‘warmth’ that complements the rawness of the concrete is a rooftop garden.</p><div id="6me4DPmWlDvef7VSdPnHze"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5YHo0cXv2rHZXrhKVGCZf0/a2747755f8ca584b91d40772d3e970cb/CCAA_Mid_2_Article_Aug_24.jpg" alt="Concrete House Torquay" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/5YHo0cXv2rHZXrhKVGCZf0/a2747755f8ca584b91d40772d3e970cb/CCAA_Mid_2_Article_Aug_24.jpg"></picture><div><br></div></div><p>Underpinning the design of the Torquay House is a very simple philosophy. “We design things to last,” Stibbard said.</p><p>“We also don’t use a lot of applied finishes. We prefer more natural materials that age over time.&nbsp;</p><p>“Concrete is one of those materials. It stands up to everything, including weather and time.&nbsp;</p><p>“There’s something satisfying in knowing this house will still be here 100 or more years from now.”</p><h2>Benefits of using concrete:</h2><ul><li><p>Thermal mass for energy efficiency&nbsp;</p></li><li><p>Durability and ‘raw’ aesthetic</p></li></ul><hr><p><strong><em><br>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="http://www.futureproofwithconcrete.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="http://www.futureproofwithconcrete.com.au/">Cement Concrete and Aggregates Australia</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers.</strong></p>

To design a unique home that is energy efficient, low maintenance and functional while at the same time be  stunningly beautiful and fit with the client’s skills as a concreter.

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<p>With migration increasing, a lack of supply of established homes and rental vacancies going down while rents go up, off-the-plan real estate remains an attractive proposition for owner-occupiers and investors alike.</p><p>While the fundamentals are strong, there is still much uncertainty in the market and developers and project marketers must take steps to increase revenue and cut costs for the year ahead while ensuring they are ready to capitalize when market confidence returns.</p><p>This phase of the market cycle is not the time to shut up shop. Developers who focus on their systems and processes will be able to reduce costs and maximise revenue whilst preparing for confidence to come back.</p><p>Technology—coupled with smart tactics that support it—will be what sets apart successful developers from their counterparts, and the good news is this needn't be expensive or difficult to implement.&nbsp;</p><p>Blair Property Group director <a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-blair/" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-blair/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Darren Blair</a> says, “There will be a J-like curve when it comes to technology adoption and we will see how elements such as face-to-face interactions with (potential) purchasers can be changed or enhanced using technology as part of the sales and marketing of new residential projects”.</p><p>So, what are some of the tools and tactics that property developers and sales agents can adopt today for a positive outlook tomorrow? Let’s start at the top of the funnel.</p><h2>Awareness<br></h2><p><br>Unfortunately, the phrase ‘Build it and they will come’ no longer applies to the market, if you’re in the process of launching a project, you will need to spread the word far and wide.&nbsp;</p><h3>Marketing and communication automation</h3><p>This may be a given for larger companies, however, smaller developers are often doing all the leg work of marketing and communications themselves.&nbsp;</p><p>Many platforms are low cost and simple to use—even for a novice. Additionally, unlike traditional methods, they provide in-depth data about who is looking at your content and what they are engaging with, which boosts your customer profiles.</p><p><strong>Tools:</strong> Canva, Mailchimp, Campaign Monitor, Facebook Ads<br><strong>Benefit:</strong> Expanded buyer reach, increased efficiency, data and insights<br><strong>Cost:</strong> Free or ;low cost.</p><h3>Artificial Intelligence&nbsp;</h3><p>Ignore the commotion, the simplest way to take advantage of AI for real estate is simply marketing copy generation. AI copy generators can take hours off the working week by backfilling marketing efforts.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Tools:</strong> Anyword, ChatGPT<br><strong>Benefits:</strong> Increased efficiency, maximise volume of content<br><strong>Cost:</strong> Free<br></p><h2>Interest, education and evaluation</h2><p><br>Polka Dot Property director <a data-mce-href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-shackleton-b2295742/" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-shackleton-b2295742/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rebecca Shackleton</a> says, “There is an expectation that detailed information about a new community, building or property will be readily available and that potential buyers will conduct a high level of research, on and offline, before engaging with the developer.</p><p>“Developers need to embrace new technology and tactics to ensure that information is accessible to the buyer, in order for them to make a purchase decision,” the host of The Masterplan: a Property Podcast says.<br></p><h3>Virtual display suite technology and interactive mapping</h3><p>The ability to sell in a buyers’ market will require standing out from your neighbours. Visual mediums target the emotional side of buying, which is critical in a market where buyers may be cautious when it comes to spending.</p><p><strong>Tools:</strong> Spiire Visual Media, DisplaySweet, Dragon VR<br><strong>Benefits:</strong> Wow factor, more dynamic and easily updated than static displays and physical models, accessible&nbsp;</p><h3>Pricing Transparency&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>Pricing transparency is a contentious tactic, but is fundamental in any off-the-plan sales strategy in 2023 and beyond, here’s three reasons why:</p><ul><li><p>Online behaviour: Buyers research, compare, and select desired properties online, if pricing isn’t available they will continue to shop around and may not bother enquiring<br></p></li><li><p>&nbsp;E-commerce: Online shopping is embedded in everyday life. Buyers expect instantaneous purchase options for products big and small—including property<br></p></li><li><p>Transparency matters: Buyers don’t want to be sold to. They want the information to make up their own mind. Pressure sales techniques don’t work anymore.<br></p></li></ul><h2>Closing the Sale</h2><p><br>Closing the sale should be top of mind for all sellers in any market, however, in today’s market there are two obvious areas of necessity: creating a sense of urgency and reducing costs, here’s how:<br></p><h3>Release automation&nbsp;</h3><p>If you’re releasing property in 2023, look no further than software offering Release.Me. The platform automates and digitises the entire release process, flattening the peak in workload and reducing the time and cost usually associated with a release.&nbsp;</p><p>Buyer applications, preferences, property allocations, communication, contract details, payment of holding deposits and contract bookings are all handled by the software-as-a-service platform—where sellers can go from account creation to live release in as little as 10 minutes.</p><p>Rodden Property Group sales director James Rodden says of his experience using Release.Me for <a data-mce-href="https://www.silverdaleestate.com.au/" href="https://www.silverdaleestate.com.au/" target="_blank">Silverdale Estate</a> at Romsey, “Our workload was considerably reduced during the release and we had the pleasant surprise of being notified of additional buyer purchases after the release, via Buy Now.</p><p>“It’s something I’d recommend other small and medium developers try out and a tool we will continue to use across our projects.”</p><div id="5SxzrttGvVHQuJjyOM5hhi"><picture><img src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1W60gbL1sjwBhjLKOZX4EE/2748ad54cd7c02ca93e05bd25a81c2f1/Release_Me_Mid_Feb_6.jpg" alt="The Release.Me property sales platform dashboard" data-mce-src="//images.ctfassets.net/8pr762qjocl3/1W60gbL1sjwBhjLKOZX4EE/2748ad54cd7c02ca93e05bd25a81c2f1/Release_Me_Mid_Feb_6.jpg"></picture><div><span style="opacity: 0.8;" data-mce-style="opacity: 0.8;">▲ The user-friendly Release.Me platform interface. <br><br></span></div></div><h3>E-commerce&nbsp;</h3><p>Release.Me national manager Amber Keogh says, “In a market where creating a sense of urgency is key, the fact that a property can be sold in a click of a button is extremely valuable for sales agents looking to spur on customers who may be dragging their feet.”</p><p>Buy Now, by Release.Me, serves as a simple e-commerce add-on to any developer or agent’s website, enabling passive sales by allowing purchasers to secure an available property at any time, from anywhere, while the sales consultant is notified via text and email.</p><p>YourLand Developments head of sales Kristian Sartori says, “The Buy Now function is a very convenient way to secure a block of land anytime, anywhere. We have seen interstate buyers searching for land in Melbourne able to purchase the land they want online without delay rather than wait for a call back.”</p><p><strong>Tools:</strong> <a href="https://release.me/release/" data-mce-href="https://release.me/release/">Release.Me – Release</a>, <a href="https://release.me/buy-now/" data-mce-href="https://release.me/buy-now/">Release.Me – Buy Now</a><br><strong>Benefits:</strong> Increased revenue, reduced expenses, passive sales, efficiency, improved customer experience<br><strong>Cost:</strong> $100 a property (<a href="https://release.me/" data-mce-href="https://release.me/">Free Trial</a>)<br></p><h2>Post-sale&nbsp;</h2><p><br>Arguably, post-sale is where the greatest risk and reward lies, however, many may believe it requires the least investment. Below are two areas worth consideration that will not only reduce risk but will define future sales success.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><h3>eContracts&nbsp;</h3><p>Using secure systems for sale, such as eContracts and settlement platforms helps to ensure that all sales are legitimate and that buyers have greater protection from cybercrime and other risks, while also creating efficiencies and reducing exposure for sellers.</p><p><strong>Tools:</strong> Docusign, SettleTech<br><strong>Benefits:</strong> Efficient, reduced risk, improved experience, minimised exposure&nbsp;</p><h3>Data and analytics&nbsp;</h3><p>Data and analytics is an often overlooked area by smaller developers, but systems needn’t be complex to provide usable data. In fact, all tools listed above provide data that paints a picture for the sales and development pipeline.</p><p>In the case of Release.Me, the platform provides in-depth buyer preference data that Sellers can use to their advantage by adjusting their property and pricing mix to better meet market demand and support sales agents.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p><br>Simply put, what reduces expenses, improves sales, expands buyer reach, and creates urgency should be priority considerations for any sales strategy—regardless of the market conditions.&nbsp;</p><p>To see how it works in action, Release.Me provides on-demand live demonstrations and offer a free trial period for new users: Find out more and book your <a href="https://release.me/book-a-demo/" data-mce-href="https://release.me/book-a-demo/">spot here.</a><br><br></p><hr><p><br><strong><em>The Urban Developer</em> is proud to partner with <a href="https://release.me/" data-mce-href="https://release.me/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Release.Me</a> to deliver this article to you. In doing so, we can continue to publish our daily news, information, insights and opinion to you, our valued readers. </strong></p>

Technology coupled with smart tactics, will be what sets apart successful off-the-plan property developers from their counterparts in the current market cycle…