Transcendent enthusiasm, like falling in love, grabs hold when buyers find a home they adore, Brad Inman writes of the couple who bought his Spanish-style West Hollywood home earlier this month.
The iconic Upper East Side townhouse where Audrey Hepburn’s character Holly Golightly lived is on the market for $15 million, offering not only a prestigious address, but a piece of cinematic history.
Vince Leisey, who is CEO of BHHS Ambassador Real Estate in Omaha, was named president of HSF Affiliates in the third leadership shakeup since rumors of a sale to Compass.
Zillow will send warnings about non-compliant listings beginning May 28, but enforcement won’t start until June 30. Agents will receive two warnings before their third non-compliant listing is blocked, executives said.
Zillow will begin a “phased rollout” of its listing access standards policy, which bans publicly marketed listings not entered into the MLS, on May 28.
In a blog post on Tuesday, Zillow offered agents some clarifications and guidance on its new policy and how it will be implemented.
“Publicly marketed listings should be entered in the MLS within one business day and published on Zillow as well as other sites that receive MLS feeds so it is viewable to all buyers and participants in the market,” the post states. “Listings that don’t align with these standards won’t be published on Zillow or Trulia for the life of the listing agreement between that listing broker and seller.”
The standards apply to listings regardless of any applicable local MLS rule, and they apply to all listings subject to an exclusive for-sale listing agreement between a broker and a seller. As such, the rule does not apply to for-sale-by-owner (FSBO) and rental listings or new construction inventory listed directly by a homebuilder.
“Zillow’s standards are focused on listings that aren’t truly private — like listings that may be publicly advertised on a brokerage’s website but not entered into the MLS for a period of time,” the post states.
The rollout
The initial rollout of the policy will begin in large U.S. markets before expanding nationwide over the summer. Zillow said it is using a phased rollout to “ensure quality and experience.”
Beginning on May 28, agents with listings who do not meet the standard will receive notifications about their listing. “Each non-compliant listing will be logged as a single violation and the listing agent will be notified directly on each violation.”
Zillow will not begin blocking listings until June 30. After that date, once an agent reaches three non-compliant listings, all subsequent noncompliant listings will be blocked from Zillow and Trulia for the life of the listing agreement between the listing broker and the seller.
Agents with noncompliant listings will be notified via email and phone. If an agent with a blocked listing has other compliant listings on Zillow, these listings will remain visible.
“Listing notifications will be sent when we’ve identified a listing that doesn’t follow our standards,” Zillow explained. “These notifications are intended to inform agents and share resources they need to stay compliant and maximize exposure of their listings.
“Our intent isn’t to restrict access or catch any agent unaware — that’s why we’ll spend the next few months informing agents on a per listing occurrence.”
What’s allowed?
Under Zillow’s listing standards, delayed marketing exempt listings and “coming-soon” listings that are entered into the MLS within one day of public marketing — and made available to all MLS participants via IDX and VOW feeds — are allowed.
Additionally, listing agents are also able to post a sneak peak of a listing on social media or in an email newsletter to buyers. These previews cannot long include identifiable details about the property, such as price or address.
Sneak peaks are also not allowed to include a call to action, such as an invitation to tour the home or the ability to receive a link to the listing via direct communication with the listing agent.
The listing standards also allow for office exclusives, as long as the homeowner signs a seller disclosure form. The property is limited to only the listing brokerage and can be shared only among agents within that brokerage, or via one-to-one communication with clients.
In its blog post, Zillow noted that homeowners concerned about privacy also have the choice to opt out of internet displays on their MLS-entered listings. They can also hide their address while still publishing their listing on the MLS and on other websites that receive MLS data feeds.
Zillow noted that if a homeowner wants to keep their listing completely private, “they should be fully informed of the tradeoffs and agree in writing.”
Not allowed under Zillow’s standards are listings that are publicly marketed via social media post, yard sign or a post on the broker’s website without being entered in the MLS and available via IDX or VOW feed within one business day.
Additionally, the policy does not allow for listings that are shared selectively with buyers who are not already clients of the brokerage.
Zillow announced these new listing standards in early April. Redfin quickly followed with a similar move, in response to rising interest in private listings and private listing networks as a result of the debate surrounding the Clear Cooperation Policy.
So far, eXp Realty, NextHome and West USA Realty have all signed on to Zillow’s listing standards.
Melbourne Storm skipper Harry Grant has two reasons to celebrate after making the Queensland side for the State of Origin opener and settling on his latest property purchase.
The 25-year-old has purchased a two-bedroom unit in Richmond for $635,000 with plans to list the property as a short-term rental so that fans can stay there during NRL games.
Melbourne Storm captain Harry Grant has bought this two-bedroom unit in Richmond.
Inside the unit in Richmond.
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As an added incentive, he plans to name one bedroom in the unit ‘Storm’ and the other ‘Richmond’, and decorate them with some footy memorabilia.
The Yeppoon-born player said he was keen to continue to grow his property portfolio.
“I’ve been looking for a property to have as a short term rental for a couple years now, so once this unit hit the market, I knew it was exactly what I wanted and knew the location and large terrace would prove to be such an important factor in the purchase,” Grant said.
“There’s so much flexibility to it. I’m really excited to be able to host my family and friends for numerous occasions throughout the year.
“With our busy schedule, I don’t get back up to Yeppoon very often so this airbnb will allow me to have family and friends stay whilst also allowing people to have such convenient access to all that Melbourne and especially Richmond has to offer. The memorabilia is still a work in progress but might be something for people to lean into around Storm games or sporting events at the MCG.”
Harry Grant of the Storm runs with the ball during the round six NRL match between Melbourne Storm and New Zealand Warriors earlier this year. Photo: Robert Cianflone.
One of the bedrooms you can rent out in Harry Grant’s apartment.
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The unit is on the third floor in a boutique block of just 17, and features a wraparound terrace with views from St Ignatius Church to the iconic Dimmeys Clocktower.
The property is not far from where Grant himself lives, just moments from Swan Street’s restaurant scene and Melbourne’s sporting and entertainment precinct.
“I’ve really enjoyed the property investment side of things outside of footy,” Grant said.
“I’m a hands-on learner, so I’ve really learnt a lot through asking questions to a couple people I really rely on in terms of advice.
“I would love to renovate a house at some point down the track.”
Cook up a storm in the kitchen of Harry Grant’s new unit.
Melbourne Storm captain Harry Grant has bought this two-bedroom unit in Richmond.
Grant, who was named on the bench in all three Origin games last year, has made the starting team for Queensland when the State of Origin series kicks off at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane later this month.
He had been waiting for the all-clear to play after recovering from a hamstring injury.
The post Origin star Harry Grant adds to growing property portfolio ahead of game 1 appeared first on realestate.com.au.
Render of the lagoon pool at Palm House, in Harbour Shores on the Gold Coast.
A 25m lagoon pool, tennis court, and a yoga studio are just some of the “world-class” amenities at a new Gold Coast community.
Lewis Land is flipping the script on apartment amenities with its latest residential offering at Harbour Shores offering access to a wellness precinct rivalling five-star resorts.
Render of Harbour Shores.
Palm House will include 60 apartments.
Render of Palm House.
Palm House is the latest apartment collection within the first stage of the Harbour Shores masterplanned community at Biggera Waters.
Lewis Land CEO Brett Draffen said Palm House, to start construction this month, had plenty of recreational amenities for its residents of the South Shore precinct.
“Palm House is the vibrant heart of the South Shore precinct and is centred around resident lifestyle and wellness experiences,” said Mr Draffen.
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Lewis Land CEO Brett Draffen.
Render of the yoga studio.
Render of the tennis court at Palm House.
“The clubhouse will become a social hub, with indoor and outdoor entertaining options including a lounge, entertaining kitchen and dining spaces, alongside function rooms, a co-working space for those who work from home, a games room, and meeting room.
“It’s very much a space for people who value wellness and sport as part of their lifestyle, balanced with the relaxed waterside living experiences this precinct celebrates.”
Render of Palm House.
Render of an apartment interior in Palm House.
Palm House will include 60 two and three-bedroom apartments.
“Palm House features a selection of spacious apartments with a mix of floorplans up to 154 sqm, complete with large balconies and premium finishes,” he said.
“Exclusive amenities including private gardens and spaces to dine, socialise and relax, addition to the other premium facilities on site.”
Located opposite Harbour Town Premium Outlets, the 16ha Harbour Shores masterplan includes more than 2,000 homes over the next ten years.
The first residents are set to move in by late 2026.
The post First look: Lagoon pool, tennis court, yoga studio appeared first on realestate.com.au.
If you are struggling to get a rental you may be considering using a tenant’s agent.
Struggling to get a rental? You may be considering a tenant’s agent. But just how do they operate – and how can you choose a good one?
WHAT DO TENANT’S AGENTS DO?
As the name suggests, tenant’s agents are like the buyer’s agents of renting. Not only can they help you find a property that fits your budget and personal criteria, they can also attend inspections on your behalf and potentially even negotiate the price and the length of the lease. Most also offer a service where they will write and submit applications on your behalf.
Rent Fairy director Sarah Elkordi says this takes a lot of stress and time out of the process for renters who may have been declined multiple times in the past.
A lot of tenant’s agents also have access to offmarket properties through their connections with real estate agents, opening them up to a wider pool of rentals.
The rental crisis has meant finding a home is like digging for treasure. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard
BENEFITS
Education is another important factor, says Sydney renter’s agent Marcelle Wever. The director of Sydney Rental Search says her first step is to qualify a new client, keeping in mind that property managers want applicants who will pay no more than one third of their income on their rent. In fact, they may even give you a reality check if you have unrealistic expectations.
“If someone is saying they want to spend 50 per cent of their combined income on rent, I know that’s going to be very hard to do and out of integrity I would not take on that client,” she says.
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Buyers agent Marcelle Wever. Picture: supplied
HOW DO THEY CHARGE?
While Elkordi and Wever both charge a flat fee depending on the level of service you choose, there is variation across the industry, with some charging the first two weeks of rent as their fee.
When researching tenant’s agents, it’s worth looking deeply at what they offer within each price tier and considering the level of service you require, whether it’s an offmarket search, a certain number of inspections, help with applications or even help with connecting utilities.
SIGNS OF A GOOD TENANT’S AGENT
When looking for a tenant’s agent, it’s a good idea to choose someone with plenty of industry knowledge, says Elkordi. If the person has had a background in property management it gives them that insider knowledge when it comes to liaising with real estate agents.
Tenant’s agents can help with the application process.
“I understand quite thoroughly what property managers are looking for, what makes their life easier,” she says. “So when we are applying, these real estate agents have everything they need straight away, in their face.”
Wever agrees that experience is crucial – as is a strong personal connection.
“What you’re looking for is someone who has knowledge about the area, has the experience, has the relationships – and someone you feel like you have an affinity with,” Wever says. “It’s a very personal thing to be looking for a rental property.”
Director and founder of The Rent Fairy Sarah Elkordi. Picture: supplied
THINGS TO CONSIDER:
When deciding whether to use a tenant’s agent, here are some things to think about:
1. Time – do you have the time to devote to attending inspections, especially ones during the week, and filling out applications for properties?
2. Affordability – can you afford to pay for the service of a tenant’s agent and how does it compare to the time lost if you have to take time off work to attend inspections?
3. Experience – what level of experience do the tenant’s agents in your area have in the industry and what is their success rate at getting renters into homes?
4. Connections – is there a benefit in going with a tenant’s agent because of their connections with local real estate agents and their access to offmarket properties?
5. Your application – how strong is your application? Are you a shoe in? Or do you need help presenting yourself when applying for properties?
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The post How a tenant’s agent can help with your rental application appeared first on realestate.com.au.
They are beacons of the community but finding buyers for the humble post office can prove difficult, with some outlets languishing on the property market for years.
The Parndana post office, on Kangaroo Island, has been listed for sale since about 2012.
The shopfront, which has a three-bedroom home at the rear, is described as a “gold mine’’ by selling agent Lynne Savage, of Kangaroo Island Real Estate, who has held the listing for the past three years.
She said it provided a crucial service to KI’s entire western farming community but, despite plenty of interest, a successful sale was unlikely anytime soon.
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The Parndana post office and home at 36 Cook St has been on the market since 2012.
The selling agent says most people who have shown interest in the property are keener on the home.
“It (the post office) is the lifeblood of not just Parndana – we’re talking the lifeblood of half of the island,’’ Ms Savage said.
The property, which comes with a takeaway and fuel station, is priced at $495,000.
It was the post office, which must be retained as part of the sale, which was most often the sticking point with buyers who tended to only be seeking the home, Ms Savage said.
“It (the buyer) needs to be a family that wants a tree change and that is happy to come over here with their kids and continue running (the post office) as it is,’’ she said.
Ray White Clare Valley selling agent Mark O’Meagher has been trying to sell Auburn’s local post office for about five months.
The two-storey stone building combines a shopfront post office with a three-bedroom residence in Auburn’s main street.
Mr O’Meagher said there was no letter delivery service in Auburn so locals had to attend the post office in person to collect their mail.
The Auburn property at 2 St Vincent St combines the town’s post office and a home.
It’s listed for sale with a $799,999 price guide.
He said while there was significant interest in the property, interested buyers lacked approved finances to seal the deal.
The price for the post office is currently listed as $799,999, down from the original asking price of $839,000.
“We don’t want that (postal) service in that town to leave because we know it’s needed,’’ Mr O’Meagher said.
The importance of post offices to their communities was outlined in a 2021 Deloitte Access Economics report, which found them to be “more trusted than the general store, the local library, the bank branch and the local school’’.
Australia Post said all buyers of operational post offices were provided with training to successfully continue the businesses.
“Post offices are part of the fabric of local communities,’’ an Australia Post spokesperson said.
“We encourage people with the right skills and dedication to consider becoming a licensee and joining our huge retail network, which is larger than the major supermarkets combined.’’
In recent years, a string of post office closures has devastated Australian towns – but has also sparked a flurry of interest from those seeking character homes.
The Blyth property at 13 Harley St was a post office but has been converted into a home.
It recently went under offer just a week after it was listed for sale.
A former post office at Blyth, built in 1910 and since converted to a beautiful two-storey home, went under offer earlier this month, just a week after it was listed by Mr O’Meagher for $299,000.
He said while price was a major factor in the sale, the property’s history proved highly marketable.
“Some people get really enthralled by the idea that they own an old post office – it can (attract the interest of) someone that wouldn’t be grabbed otherwise,’’ Mr O’Meagher said.
Converted post offices at Hawker and Point Pass are also on the market, along with a business in Spalding.
– by Lauren Ahwan
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The Victorian state budget was Focused On What Matters Most. First-home buyers got very little. Picture: Asanka Ratnayake/Getty Images.
The Victorian budget has been lashed as a “kick in the guts” to first-home buyers after it slammed the door on a key housing program despite forecasts of a property price surge.
Real Estate Institute of Victoria president Jacob Caine criticised the lack of support for first-home buyers in a budget that openly acknowledged home prices are expected to rise, even as it signalled the end of the once popular Victorian Homebuyer Fund.
“If you are a first-home buyer or on the cusp, it must feel like a kick in the guts,” Mr Caine said.
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“It appears that the government is simultaneously relying on the extension of the stamp duty discount for new builds and the incentives and support program that the feds have promised, to shirk their responsibility for supporting first-home buyers into their first home.
“The forecast of increased Victorian property prices aligns with most economist and industry pundits, and that says that the opportunity to buy a first home is going to become even more difficult than it already is.
“The government needs to do more to support young Victorians into their first home.”
In last year’s budget the Victorian Homebuyer Fund shared-equity scheme was slated to exit the state’s selection of support programs for affordability-challenged home buyers as of June 30, 2025.
Yesterday’s budget had no mention of the scheme, which is believed to have helped close to 15,000 Victorians with even a 5 per cent deposit to buy a home with the government paying for up to 25 per cent of its cost in return for a commensurate stake in the property.
Victorian first-home buyers have lost a key support program.
With no further funding, the state’s struggling homebuyers will be directed towards a similar federal scheme dubbed Help To Buy — however that program’s start date is still listed as late 2025.
The Albanese government announced extensions to its property price caps, now $950,000 in metropolitan areas and $650,000 in regional areas, and the income eligibilities for it in the lead up to this year’s federal election.
But the number of places has not shifted from 40,000 over four years.
At 10,000 per annum, Victorians would have to claim about 4000 of the national total, or 40 per cent, in order to get the same number of recipients as the state scheme.
The REIV had called for the state government to follow the federal government’s lead by boosting caps on the stamp duty concession scheme for first-home buyers which have remained at $600,000 for a full waiver, and $750,000 for a discounted tax bill, since 2017.
State Revenue Office figures show 41,793 Victorian first-home buyers used the scheme in the 2023-2024 financial year, meaning it is helping more than 10 times the numbers likely to be assisted by the federal scheme.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a boost to the Help To Buy scheme, but not when it would commence, in the lead up to the federal election. Picture: AAP Image/Dean Lewins.
However, those numbers are waining as the caps cover an increasingly small portion of the market. At its peakin the 2020-2021 fianancial year, the program assisted almost 54,000 Victorians.
They had also sought a more balanced property tax obligations, another budget submission Mr Caine said was ignored despite mounting evidence that landlords were selling up faster than they were being replaced.
“These declines should sound alarm bells, as they reflect a tightening rental market and reduced property investment, just when we need more rental housing, not less,” he said.
“With investor confidence fading, maintaining the budgetary status quo risks further constraining housing supply and worsening affordability issues.”
Property Council of Australia Victorian executive director Cath Evans said the budget had left the property sector caught in a “chokehold” of government fees, costs and charges that were stifling investment.
The Property Council’s Victorian executive director Cath Evans said the budget had left a “chokehold” on the property industry. Picture: Jake Nowakowski.
“The industry was hoping for progress – instead, we’ve hit a stop sign,” Ms Evans said.
“Since last year’s budget, we have been loudly advocating for an easing of the tax burden to promote investment, greater support for first homebuyers and feasibility solutions to increase supply. None of this was addressed in the budget.
“The industry is ready to grow, but it can’t grow under the current arrangements.”
Housing Industry Association executive director Keith Ryan panned the budget as a bid for re-election that had failed to deliver meaningful and needed tax reform for the property sector.
“Trading conditions for many new home builders have become increasingly precarious in the face of overreaching new regulations, poor consumer confidence and escalating construction costs – many of which have been compounded by Victoria’s punitive property tax regime,” Mr Ryan said.
“Unfortunately, this year’s budget does little to reduce the prohibitive cost of new home building, apart from the previously foreshadowed decision to extend the stamp duty concession for off-the-plan apartments, units and townhouses for a further 12 months.”
A boost to VLine train services connecting regional Victoria to Melbourne was suggested as a silver lining for first-home buyers from this year’s budget. Picture: Grace Frost.
He said the one glimmer of hope for first-home buyers was a boost to VLine train services, which could potentially make affordable homes in regional parts of the state more viable for market entrants.
Master Builders Victoria chief executive Michaela Lihou said they appreciated a conservative approach, and lauded $50m for the Melbourne Polytechnic Future of Housing Construction TAFE Centre of Excellence.
However, Ms Lihou said broader building industry stimulus had been needed.
“While the significant shortage of housing in Victoria has also been a primary focus for the past few years now, we had hoped the Government would have seen the value in a significant stimulus injection to get the industry and homes moving for deserving Victorians,” she said.
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