Property talk
By Rama Gaind

WHILE rents are escalating around Australia, the level of increase does not appear to be as high in Canberra, according to the ACT Real Estate Institute president Michael Wellsmore.
He said figures from Australian Property Monitors for the last quarter showed zero per cent for housing and a fall of one per cent for units.
“Sure, there maybe pockets interstate experiencing increases, but I prefer to get details of inputs when it comes to surveys because there are many judgements and interpretations,” he said.
The HIA’s local chief Stuart Collins said that in terms of comparison with actual rents being paid, ACT was on par with Sydney and this was of concern.
“ACT housing rental costs have increased around five per cent and there is every chance that there could be a continuation of the upward trend,” he said.
“However, land releases in the ACT, affordability programs and the government National Rental Affordability Scheme, which offers rentals at 20 per cent below market value, may result in this being pulled back.”

THE Village Building Company has completed more than $1.2 billion worth of work in Canberra, Wollongong, Coffs Harbour, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast which included more than 11,000 lots and 3000 homes during its 20 years.
Speaking at its anniversary dinner at Parliament House, CEO Bob Winnel said: “Most of these have been at the affordable end of the market with quality landscaping and recreational facilities. We have developed a focus on reducing potable water usage, recycling storm water, developing energy efficient designs, using solar hot water and on-site recycling of all building waste.
“We have much to be proud of over the last 20 years. We will face many more challenges as we continue to be agents for change and as we expand our company into a national development company.”

AN outstanding “green” building in Bruce has been recognised with the Canberra company Australian Ethical Investment winning the 2008 Banksia Environmental Foundation award.
The company’s new home at Trevor Pearcey House, in Fernhill Park, won the award for the category of Built Environment at the 20th anniversary of the Banksia Awards in Melbourne.
The refurbished 20-year-old building, with a six Greenstar rating, produces about 70 per cent fewer greenhouse emissions than an average commercial building and uses about 75 per cent less water.