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Without VASP, veterans don’t have a foreclosure safety net

There are about 80,000 veterans in the U.S. who are behind on their mortgages and heading toward foreclosure, according to data from ICE Mortgage Technology, a number that could have been alleviated with help from the Veteran Affairs Servicing Purchase (VASP) program.

But just last month, the program was abruptly discontinued by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) when it stopped accepting new applicants on May 1.

VASP was started in 2024 under the Biden administration with the purpose of being a last-resort program that offered new, low-interest rate mortgages for veterans and service members who fell behind on their loans. According to the VA, the widely criticized program helped more than 33,000 veterans during the past year.

Now, as VASP has no backup and mortgage rates remain near 7%, the only other option besides VASP is to take out a loan modification, which could mean increased payments that put veterans in foreclosure and force them to sell.

Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Federal Housing Administration mortgages all have emergency options for delinquent borrowers that don’t involve an increased interest rate or monthly payment.

NPR reported Thursday that it has heard from more than 50 veterans around the country in recent weeks who are upset about the program’s defunding. The news organization collected personal anecdotes from Republican and Democratic veterans and lawmakers — all of whom are concerned about the lack of options.

“I’m constantly terrified every day that some giant moving truck or some people are just gonna show up on the front door and kick us out and start throwing all of our stuff out of the house,” Mason Reale, a former U.S. Navy sonar technician in Lake Wales, Florida, told NPR.

VA Secretary Doug Collins raised concerns about VASP, arguing that it exposed taxpayers to too much risk because the VA holds the new loans directly on its balance sheet.

At a recent hearing, NPR reported that Collins said the program was going to cost “multiple billions of dollars” going forward. He also remarked that “it’s a program we should have never gotten into.”

Collins shared his hopes that Congress will replace VASP with a “partial claim” program, which moves missed payments to the end of the loan term, allowing borrowers to resume paying their mortgage at the original rate and amount. The VA used to have this option, but it was shut down in 2022.

Congress is working on a new VA home loan safety net, although it’s unclear how long it will take to implement. In May, H.R. 1815 — the V.A. Home Loan Program Reform Act — was passed by voice vote in the House of Representatives.

The Hill reported on June 11 that House Republicans advanced legislation that calls for more than $450 billion to fund the VA, military construction and other programs for fiscal year 2026.

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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The importance of meeting older customers where they are with AI technology

The expanding ubiquity of artificial intelligence (AI) across all facets of life is not showing any signs of a slowdown — and that includes its interactions with the reverse mortgage industry.

Bill Packer, chief operating officer of Longbridge Financial, previously explained how senior-focused tailoring of AI systems can help overcome issues tied to perceived institutional biases, resulting in better service for older clients.

But when it comes to the reverse mortgage industry’s implementation of AI technology tools in other areas, there are many possibilities. Packer lays out some of these in this second part of his conversation with HousingWire’s Reverse Mortgage Daily (RMD).

Appraisal reviews

On top of controlling for potential bias that may arise from the AI training process, Packer explained that AI tools can be helpful when assessing property appraisals within the reverse mortgage business.

Bill Packer, COO of Longbridge Financial.
Bill Packer

“One of these places we use the AI tool is for looking at appraisals,” he said. “We can make a determination on whether or not the appraisal is appropriately representing the value of the property. I know that some of our competitors use people to do that process, but we largely rely on some models that have been built.”

This comes down to a question of what can be trusted more to accomplish the objective, he explained.

“Do I trust a model that unemotionally is looking at house-price appreciation, or the history of the property, the comps that were being used versus other comps?” Packer asked. “Do I trust that as being less biased than a human being who’s bringing their own thoughts, expectations and experience to the table?

“I would argue that I think the dispassionate AI model is going to be less ageist, especially if it’s been developed correctly and tested over time, than human beings, unfortunately.”

Proper service

Packer previously said he was not totally sure about the idea that older customers prefer “function over flash.” This feeds into the need to view older customers as distinct individuals rather than lumping them into a group.

“We aren’t a monolith,” he said. “I even look across my friend group. Some of them have refinanced many times and are very comfortable in an online environment. Some of them have not refinanced as much or feel less able to make that journey unguided.

“And I think that’s one of the tremendous powers of Longbridge: If you want to interact with us and move through that platform digitally, we have a solution for you.”

Clients who want personal contact can also be served by this system, if they prefer. If that means a phone or video call, or an in-office visit, the company is structured in a way to accommodate any of these preferences, Packer said.

“We’re happy to engage with you where, when and how that customer wants to engage on a very personalized basis, because any of these generalities rapidly fall apart as soon as you get to the individual,” he said.

“I would even say that in an individual transaction, when you have more than one borrower, they’ll have other parties that are assisting in the progression of the process.”

Limits of customer-facing AI

Trusted advisers may prefer different engagement options than prospective borrowers, and Longbridge wants to be able to accommodate these preferences. Ultimately, options will include a consumer-facing AI chatbot that is still in development, Packer said.

“That’s going to be a big leap for us, and we have to get super comfortable first with our partners and see some evolution there before we’ll do that,” he said. “But I think that that day is certainly coming.”

Packer shared a personal story about staying at a large hotel chain and wanted to locate the “do not disturb” tag on his door. He couldn’t find it in his room, so he tried to call the front desk but quickly realized he was speaking with an AI chatbot.

It was unable to comprehend the nature of his question, and he immediately craved direct human interaction.

“It gave me the option to opt out and talk to someone else,” he said. “I think all of us, at a moment like that, we want to get to that real human being. Longbridge is always going to support that, because I think that always makes sense.”

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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North Carolina real estate office reopens after Hurricane Helene devastation

Premier Sotheby’s International Realty has reopened its office in Asheville, North Carolina, marking a significant milestone in the region’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.

The real estate agency, which was severely damaged in the storm, underwent extensive restoration over the past nine months. Its reopening was commemorated with a ceremony on June 16, where a plaque was unveiled to honor the lasting impact of the hurricane and the resilience of the local community.

“(It was) a very meaningful day as we celebrated the grand reopening of our Asheville office nine months after being destroyed by Helene,” Budge Huskey, CEO of Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, said in a statement.

“Asheville is fully open for business and tourism, and our incredible team of advisors looks forward to welcoming you back to the Blue Ridge.”

image002

The event served as both a reopening and a dedication, acknowledging the efforts of employees, clients and local residents who supported each other during the recovery.

“The people who help others find a home lost their own. Yet their resilience has been both humbling and inspiring,” Huskey said. “Western North Carolina’s rebirth has brought with it an undeniable sense of beauty and grace.”

Agents and staff at the company’s Asheville office continued to work with clients throughout the rebuilding process, despite the damage to their workplace.

“As someone who calls Western North Carolina home, I’ve never been more proud of our team — not just for their professionalism, but for their courage and compassion,” managing broker Beatrix Masotti said.

“This reopening is more than a return to business. It’s a celebration of how far we’ve come and the bonds that carried us here. We are ready to welcome our clients back, stronger and more united than ever.”

The reopening follows renewed efforts by state and federal leaders to promote the region’s economic revival. In a recent PBS State Lines special — “Hurricane Helene’s Economic Impact” — officials emphasized that the majority of the area is operational.

“90 percent of the mountains are open for business,” said state Sen. Tim Moffitt, with U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards adding, “We’re open for business. The lights are back on.”

After an initial rejection of a required Hurricane Helene recovery plan as it sought more than $200 million in federal funds, the City of Asheville’s revised plan has received approval last month from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Hurricane Helene struck the southeastern U.S. in late September 2024 and ranks among the most destructive storms in recent history. It was the most powerful hurricane ever recorded in Florida’s Big Bend region and the deadliest Atlantic storm since Hurricane Maria in 2017.

The storm, which combined with a separate weather system that contained heavy rain, unleashed powerful winds and torrential flooding across western North Carolina, particularly in Asheville and the Appalachian region. More than 100 deaths were reported in the state.

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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ALTA promotes trio to bolster advocacy efforts

The American Land Title Association (ALTA) has announced three internal promotions as part of a broader effort to strengthen leadership and advocacy across the title insurance industry.

Elizabeth Blosser, ALTA chief strategy, communications and innovation officer
Elizabeth Blosser

Elizabeth Blosser has been named as chief strategy, communications and innovation officer. She formerly served as ALTA’s vice president of government affairs for state advocacy, and will now lead the association’s strategic initiatives and messaging.

Emily Tryon — who previously served as ALTA’s vice president of government affairs for federal advocacy — has been promoted to chief advocacy officer. She will oversee ALTA’s legislative and regulatory agenda at all levels of government.

Kevin Cameron moves into the role of vice president and head of federal government affairs. He was most recently senior director of federal government affairs and will now guide ALTA’s efforts on Capitol Hill and with the executive branch, along with leading its grassroots and political engagement work.

Emily Tryon, ALTA chief advocacy officer
Emily Tryon

“These changes mark a milestone in the association’s growth and reinforce our ongoing commitment to delivering value to our members through strategic thought leadership, proactive advocacy and innovative initiatives,” ALTA CEO Chris Morton said in a statement.

“Elizabeth Blosser, Emily Tryon and Kevin Cameron are accomplished, trusted leaders who bring unmatched expertise and passion to our work.”

Morton was appointed earlier this month as CEO following the departure of Diane Tomb, who filled the seat for six years.

Kevin Cameron, ALTA vice president, head of federal government affairs
Kevin Cameron

ALTA President Richard Welshons said the board supports the new promotions.

“The ALTA Board of Governors is thrilled to see these promotions,” he said. “They will position ALTA to continue to deliver strong advocacy on behalf of its members, while supporting innovation in an evolving real estate landscape.”

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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Redfin, Thumbtack partner to connect homeowners with improvement pros

Redfin has launched a new feature in partnership with home services provider Thumbtack to help homeowners find and hire professionals for home improvement and maintenance projects.

By claiming their property on Redfin and visiting the Owner Dashboard, homeowners can now access a range of services — including painting, landscaping, cleaning and HVAC maintenance.

The feature allows users to review customer feedback, compare prices and connect with local contractors directly through the Redfin site or Android app.

“Millions of people will use Redfin to find a home this year, and our partnership with Thumbtack helps them care for that home long after they move in,” said Ariel Dos Santos, Redfin’s senior vice president of product and design.

“By recommending trusted pros for home improvement projects, we’re saving customers time and hassle while helping them maximize the value of their home. It’s just one way we make the homeownership journey smoother from start to finish.”

Integrated services aim to streamline the homeownership experience — particularly for those preparing to list their properties. As the housing market shifts in favor of buyers, Redfin agents say presentation matters more than ever.

“Today’s buyers are more selective about the homes they’ll offer on,” said Connie Durnal, a Redfin Premier agent in Dallas. “Nearly everyone is looking for something move-in ready, and if they think they’ll have to paint a room or replace a faucet, they may move on to the next home. That’s why I’m encouraging all of my sellers to go the extra mile and make their home the shining star.”

The collaboration also benefits long-term owners looking to complete seasonal maintenance or upgrades. Redfin users can access a list of trending local services, with Thumbtack’s artificial intelligence-based system matching them with appropriate professionals.

“We’re excited to partner with Redfin to support homeowners through their entire home journey — from the buying and selling process to managing, maintaining, and improving their homes,” said Michael Kim, Thumbtack’s vice president of strategy and business development.

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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Title tech firm Dono appoints revenue head

Dono, a company that offers artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools for title production, has appointed industry veteran Anthony Nalbone as its new head of revenue.

Nalbone, who brings more than two decades of experience in the title insurance sector, joins Dono following a series of leadership roles with major firms including CATIC, Spruce Holdings, Fidelity National Agency Solutions, WFG National Title Insurance Co. and LandAmerica Financial Corp.

“I’m excited to join the company that is futureproofing the title industry,” Nalbone said. “Dono’s approach to combining AI precision with workflow adaptability addresses the operational challenges I’ve seen throughout my career managing relationships with the industry’s largest players.”

At Dono, Nalbone will be responsible for expanding the platform’s customer base and scaling revenue operations across national and regional markets. His previous work included building revenue strategies and managing strategic partnerships with mortgage underwriters and real estate agencies.

“Anthony’s deep relationships and proven ability to scale revenue across every segment of our market makes him the ideal leader to accelerate our growth trajectory,” said Tali Gross, CEO of Dono.

Founded in 2023, Dono develops AI-powered software designed to streamline title production workflows. Its services include automated order entry, title commitment creation, report generation, title plant management and an AI assistant for examining title issues.

The platform is used by mortgage servicers and underwriters, regional and national real estate agencies, and legal professionals.

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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Tech Pulse: Longbridge talks AI senior inclusivity, UWM details lending advancements

Welcome back to Tech Pulse — a new weekly series rounding up the latest in technology, including tools, integrations and trends that impact mortgage and real estate.

Here’s what happened this week:

Longbridge’s Bill Packer on crafting AI that’s inclusive of seniors

As AI becomes more common in financial services, Bill Packer, the chief operating officer at Longbridge Financial, warns against overlooking older users. In an interview, he stressed the importance of age-inclusive design, transparency in AI training and preserving human oversight as the firm carefully expands its senior-focused AI tools like “Bridget.”

The importance of meeting older customers where they are with AI technology

In the second part of his interview, Packer explores the potential for improving appraisals and customer service while emphasizing the importance of preserving human interaction.

Inside UWM’s tech evolution: How LEO and Mia are shaping the future of mortgage lending

United Wholesale Mortgage (UWM) is redefining mortgage tech with LEO, its Loan Estimate Optimizer, and Mia, a generative AI voice assistant for brokers. Chief technology offficer Jason Bressler shares how these tools boost speed, accuracy and client engagement — ushering in a smarter, more automated lending era.

Cotality integrates with Freddie Mac’s AIM Check API

Cotality has integrated its income analysis tool with Freddie Mac’s AIM Check for Payroll API, streamlining the mortgage income verification process. The move allows lenders to transmit pay stub and W-2 data directly to Freddie Mac’s Loan Product Advisor — aiming to reduce friction and speed up loan approvals for borrowers.

Rechat marks 10 years with revenue growth, new features, expanded team

Real estate tech firm Rechat reported a 100% year-over-year revenue increase and a 220% surge in users as it marks 10 years in business. The company credits its AI-powered platform — including tools like CRM, digital ads and AI assistant “Lucy” — for driving rapid growth and broker adoption.

TRUE names Steve Butler its CEO, Ari Gross CIO

TRUE has named fintech veteran Stephen Butler as CEO, with founder Ari Gross shifting to chairman and chief innovation officer. The moves aim to help the company accelerate its AI-powered automation strategy for the mortgage industry, as it doubles down on generative AI integration and rapid innovation to meet evolving lending demands.

PHH Mortgage expands partnership with Blend Labs

PHH Mortgage is deepening its partnership with Blend Labs, adding Rapid Refi and Rapid Home Equity to its tech stack. The move aims to help borrowers tap into home equity or refinance faster, as servicers shift toward speed, retention and digital transformation in a competitive, rate-sensitive lending environment.

Title tech firm Dono appoints revenue head

Title production technology provider Dono appointed industry veteran Anthony Nalbone as head of revenue. With 20-plus years of experience, Nalbone will drive growth by expanding Dono’s platform to serve title, mortgage, real estate and legal clients nationwide.

June 21, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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A $310m transformation set to renew prominent Kangaroo Point site

Construction is under way on The Bedford by Mosaic, marking the long-awaited transformation of a prominent Kangaroo Point peninsula site that has remained dormant for decades.

The $310m mixed-use development by Queensland developer Mosaic Property Group will deliver the precinct’s first-ever major supermarket.

The Bedford will include a full-line Woolworths, cafe, and liquor store at ground level, with 128 two- and three-bedroom residences and resident amenities across 16 levels above.

Mosaic Property Group has officially broken ground on The Bedford, a $310m mixed-use project at Kangaroo Point.

The development has sold more than 90 per cent since its late 2024 preview.

The final release of luxury residences is now available with construction being undertaken by Mosaic’s own in-house building arm. Residences are priced from $1.4m and completion is set for late 2027.

Mosaic founder and managing director Brook Monahan said the milestone represented a long-awaited activation of a key inner-city location.

“This is a cornerstone site that has sat idle for decades,” he said.

It will feature 128 two- and three-bedroom residences and resident amenities across 16 levels.

“After so many stalled attempts, we’re proud to be the ones finally bringing it to life.

“It’s a privilege and a responsibility we take seriously – delivering the kind of amenity and homes that build on Kangaroo Point’s established appeal to further cement its position as one of Brisbane’s most coveted residential pockets.

“The response to The Bedford has been exceptional, and it’s not by chance.

“It comes down to a combination of location, quality, and confidence. This is one of Brisbane’s most iconic inner-city suburbs, yet it’s lacked new residential supply for over a decade.

A full-line of Woolworths, cafe, and liquor stores will be set at ground level.

“We’ve paired that demand with a truly elevated offering – generously scaled homes, anchored by luxury hotel scale amenity – and, crucially, the certainty that Mosaic will deliver. In this market, that assurance is more valuable than ever.”

Mr Monahan said the strength of demand for The Bedford had been so significant that Mosaic was fast-tracking the preview of its follow-up Kangaroo Point development, the $240m The Carter by Mosaic, to meet ongoing demand.

“We don’t bring a project to market unless we believe deeply in its relevance and potential – but when demand exceeds even our expectations, we move with confidence,” he said.

“The Bedford’s performance has reaffirmed that buyers are seeking quality, location, and above all, certainty of delivery. That’s exactly what we offer – and it’s why we are accelerating the release of The Carter.”

The final release of the luxury residences is now available with construction underway and set for release in late 2027.

This year, Mosaic is on track to complete three major projects – The Mowbray by Mosaic in East Brisbane was delivered in January, The Prescott by Mosaic in Toowong has just been completed, and The Manning by Mosaic in Milton is set for a July completion totalling more than $350m and 295 new homes, all constructed by Mosaic’s internal building division.

Since 2012, Mosaic has completed more than 65 premium residential and mixed-use projects across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast, delivering more than $2bn in value.

A further $2bn in projects are either under way or in planning.

THE BEDFORD BY MOSAIC

Developer: Mosaic Property Group

Address: 16-30 Prospect St, Kangaroo Point

Features: Mixed-use development including 128 two- and three-bedroom residences with resident amenities. Final release residences priced from $1.4m. Completion set for late 2027.

More info: thebedfordbymosaic.com.au

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June 20, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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$100m James Packer backed project’s wellbeing, longevity boost

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

Residents of the Maleela Rise development could be set to enjoy their views for a long time if plans for it to help improve wellbeing and longevity pay off.

A consortium backed by billionaire James Packer have revealed their vision to turn a Balwyn nursing home into a life-extending luxury apartment complex.

A wellness retreat inspired by Hotel Chadstone that features a gym and mix of saunas, a curated library and reflection garden are among the features planned for its well-heeled future residents.

The former 52-bed Aveo aged care centre at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn, was bought by the NPACT investment firm which is heavily funded by one of Australia’s richest men, Mr Packer, and headed by former Crown Resorts strategy and development vice president Todd Nisbet.

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Melbourne lawyer, businessman and former ABC board member Joe Gersh is also part of the group behind the planned $100m revamp that will ultimately feature 31 homes.

The project will be developed alongside Chapter Group and has been designed by Cera Stribely Architects, with landscaping by garden guru to Melbourne’s elite Jack Merlo.

Mr Nisbet said the project would aim to nurture the body, mind and spirit of residents with a view to increased longevity and overall wellness.

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

Fitness training forms part of the plan to help keep residents at Maleela Rise in top shape.

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

Sauna’s and cold showers are also on the list of physical therapies intended to help promote a long and healthy life.

“We have focused on providing features within the development which not only promote physical health, such as the gymnasium, saunas and cold shower, but also to create opportunities for socialisation and the building of friendships through our club lounge facility, and relaxation and enrichment in our library and reflection garden,” he said.

The largest residences will span “mansion proportions” of more than 600sq m, including one with its own swimming pool and a rooftop retreat on offer.

After previously working on One Barangaroo, the tallest tower in Sydney and home to one of the nation’s few six-star hotels, he added that the 31-apartment complex in Balwyn to be named Maleela Rise was also intended to create a balance between hotel luxury and a sense of home.

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

A library and reflection garden are also among the features intended to keep owners’ minds in good working order.

Crown Resorts chairman James Packer U.S Casino

Crown Resorts chairman James Packer and then Crown executive vice-president Todd Nisbet. Picture: David Caird.

“We have done this in many ways; for example, we are incorporating a concierge service to provide not only a convenience, but also a welcoming presence to our residents at the end of a long day,” Mr Nisbet said.

“It’s an opulent environment, but its designed for every day living.

“Inside the apartments, we have also added moments of extravagance through the use of incredible natural stones, such as Arebescato Rosso, but they are grounded within an overall neutral palette which will make it liveable and timeless.”

European oak flooring will be complemented by marble and travertine throughout the homes, while many residences will also have fireplaces and bars.

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

Social spaces to ensure engagement with neighbours are among the project’s intended ways to maintain good wellbeing.

The Maleela Rise development about to launch sales at 23 Maleela Ave, Balwyn - for herald sun real estate

A variety of floorplans on offer will include penthouses spanning as much as 600sq m in size, one with scope for its own pool.

A mix of two and three-bedroom floorplans will be offered, all homes will have butler’s pantries in their kitchens, large terraces and multiple carparks.

There has already been interest from local business luminaries in the largest homes.

Apartment prices will start at $1.7m for a two-bedroom home, while penthouses will commence sales from $5.6m.

It comes shortly after James Packer and developer Time & Place had a legal win to compel the sale of a studio apartment holding up plans for a Potts Point redevelopment in Sydney.

Packer is helping to fund plans to buy out the 80-apartment The Chimes tower, with expectations it will cost about $100m all up to acquire.

It will then be overhauled as a new project.


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June 20, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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Six lifestyle locations set to boom as downsizer destinations

These top locations across Australia allow over-50s to trade long commutes and high-maintenance homes for a sunnier and more relaxed way of living.

From beach walks and bowls clubs to wellness hubs and social calendars, today’s over-50s communities are built around more than just a home. They offer connection to community, freedom and the ability to age in place while still enjoying all the perks of modern living.

With government incentives for downsizers and stamp duty relief in some states, there’s never been a better time to consider a lifestyle move. Whether it’s chasing the sun, staying close to grandkids or living amongst likeminded neighbours, Australia’s top relocation hotspots can be found at all four corners of the country.

Rockhampton has emerged as a popular location for downsizers, with new over-50s communities making relocation simple. Image: realestate.com.au

Here are some of Australia’s hotspots and new developments that are helping over-50s make the move.

Gold Coast, QLD: Coastal living with connection and convenience

The Gold Coast continues to be one of Australia’s most desirable relocation destinations for over-50s with the offering of beach walks and golf courses along with major shopping centres, hospitals and airports – it boasts the ideal blend of leisure and accessibility.

Communities like GemLife Gold Coast at Pimpama have been designed with active over-50s in mind. This gated community features state-of-the-art recreational facilities, including a country club, wellness centre, resort pool, ten-pin bowling and even a cinema.

Further south, Levande Pine Lake in Elanora is made up of lakefront homes with leafy surrounds and close proximity to Tallebudgera Creek to embody the true meaning of serenity.

The amenity-rich community of GemLife Gold Coast offers plenty of communal areas for staying active as well as relaxing and unwinding. Image: realestate.com.au

Sunshine Coast, Qld: Laid-back lifestyle with premium perks

The Sunshine Coast remains a magnet for lifestyle-driven buyers over 50 with its subtropical climate and pristine beaches alongside a large choice of health precincts, a new international airport, and upgraded transport infrastructure.

Developments like Palm Lake Resort Pelican Waters combine the best of luxury and lifestyle. Residents enjoy architect-designed homes with RV garages and access to a clubhouse, bowling green, cinema and craft studio. This is all just a stone’s throw from the Caloundra coastline.

Also on the rise is Sunrise Beach Village, which offers contemporary beachside living just minutes from Noosa National Park boasting generous green spaces and shared facilities including a gym, sauna and heated pool, private theatre, salon, art studio, library, games room, resident cafe/lounge, dining area and bar.

Rockhampton, Qld: Affordable living with country charm

For over-50s chasing a tree change without sacrificing convenience, Rockhampton is a rising star. Known for its warm weather, heritage charm and access to the stunning coastline, it offers a slower pace and more spacious homes at attractive price points.

At Aliria on Dean, a boutique development in the heart of Rockhampton City, buyers will find well-designed villas with easy access to shopping, health care and local dining options. It’s the perfect base for those looking to simplify life without downsizing too far from top amenities.

In the heart of Rockhampton, Aliria on Dean offers easy access to this lifestyle location’s bustling downtown. Image: realestate.com.au

Northern Rivers, NSW: Seaside serenity with small-town vibes

Just across the border from Queensland, the Northern Rivers region blends natural beauty with a strong sense of community. While the hoards flock to Byron Bay, towns like Yamba, Ballina and Lennox Head offer a slower pace and plenty of local character making them ideal for over-50s looking to relax and reconnect.

In Yamba, the award-winning Palm Lake Resort Yamba Cove is designed specifically for retirees seeking luxury, lifestyle and security. Residents have gravitated towards the ability to own a private home with high-spec finishes, resort-style amenities, and even space for the caravan or boat which comes in use with the Clarence River only minutes away.

Geelong, Vic: Coastal city convenience with strong growth potential

Victoria’s Geelong is fast emerging as a retirement hotspot thanks to its balance of coastal charm and city-like infrastructure. Just an hour from Melbourne, it has a long list of world-class healthcare facilities, public transport links, and a thriving cafe and arts scene.

In Armstrong Creek, Halcyon Horizon is creating a vibrant community for over-50s with architecturally designed homes and premium shared facilities like a clubhouse, pool and gym. Surrounded by walking trails and just 15 minutes from Torquay’s beaches, it’s ideal for active retirees and downsizers seeking a new chapter, especially if they still love to surf.

Halcyon Horizon harnesses the best of Geelong’s attractions and builds on them, with community amenities right at the door. Image: realestate.com.au

Mandurah, WA: Waterfront living with a relaxed pace

Situated just an hour south of Perth, Mandurah is a scenic coastal city with a laid-back vibe that’s made it a favourite among WA retirees. Known for its waterways, marina lifestyle and abundant wildlife, it offers over-50s a slower pace with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

Lifestyle Resorts Mandurah caters to active downsizers looking for a sense of community and an active outdoor lifestyle. Residents can enjoy fishing, kayaking, and sunset strolls, while still being close to shops, cafes and quality healthcare. The development combines modern design with resort-style amenities including a pool, clubhouse and wellness centre.

Are you searching for a brand-new home to suit your next chapter? Check out our dedicated New Homes section.

The post Six lifestyle locations set to boom as downsizer destinations appeared first on realestate.com.au.

June 20, 2025/0 Comments/by JKents
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