Updates

Billionaire Gerry Harvey has secured Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) for his new Dubbo apartment development, providing buyers with a 10-year structural warranty. This move reinforces his commitment to quality construction and buyer protection. LDI involves strict oversight, including independent inspections, ensuring high building standards. As one of the first Sydney developers to adopt LDI, Harvey is setting a precedent for increased transparency and market confidence in off-the-plan property investments.

In Market Insights EP 83, Urban Property Group’s Chairman, John Brogden, discusses the adoption of Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) and its impact on the Australian property market. As the first developer in Australia to implement this insurance, Urban Property Group provides 10-year coverage for apartment buyers, ensuring long-term protection against construction defects. Brogden highlights how LDI boosts consumer confidence, enhances developer credibility, and is likely to become an industry standard within the next five years. With increasing buyer awareness and regulatory support, resilience insurance is set to reshape the future of apartment development in Australia.

Market Insights EP 82: The Developer View features industry leaders from Third.i, PERIFA, and ICD Property sharing insights into the current real estate landscape. The discussion covers market trends, investment strategies, sustainability, and the future of property development, offering valuable perspectives for investors and industry professionals. With a focus on innovation and adaptability, the episode explores how developers navigate challenges and seize new opportunities in an evolving market.

The article presents insights from Michael Bird, Diana Sarcasmo, and Mark Bernberg on the evolving landscape of project marketing. Michael Bird highlights key industry challenges and the need for innovative strategies. Diana Sarcasmo discusses market trends and the importance of adaptability in marketing approaches. Mark Bernberg shares practical experiences and strategies for overcoming hurdles in project marketing. Their perspectives provide a comprehensive understanding of the industry's current state and future direction.

Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) is revolutionizing off-the-plan property sales by providing buyers with a 10-year structural defect guarantee. This added security boosts buyer confidence, accelerates sales, and even increases resale value. Major developers are already embracing LDI, and industry experts predict it will soon become a standard requirement for new projects. If you're investing in off-the-plan properties, choosing one with LDI ensures a safer, more secure investment.

In Market Insights EP 79, Mike Bird (CEO of Urban.com.au) speaks with Drew Bowie (MA Financial) about risk management in property development. They discuss how time is a critical risk factor, the impact of construction delays on financing, and how insurance products like resilience and latent defects insurance (LDI) help mitigate risks. Bowie explains that insured projects provide greater confidence to both financiers and consumers, potentially increasing property value and sales. He emphasizes that quality developments with risk mitigation strategies are more resilient in market downturns, making insurance a valuable tool for developers and lenders alike.

The property market in 2025 is off to a promising start, with renewed buyer confidence and increased development activity. Downsizers and investors are re-entering the market, fueling demand for high-quality projects like The Edison in North Fitzroy and Safety Beach. With Melbourne’s relative affordability and expected rate cuts, the stage is set for a strong year ahead.

In Market Insights EP 77, Jim Hunter from Capital Corporation discusses The Residences in Warrawee, a luxury apartment development designed for downsizers seeking spacious, high-end living with minimal maintenance. The project features large apartments, premium finishes by Coco Republic, and community spaces, all tailored to market demand. Hunter also highlights Capital Corporation’s strong track record, including successful developments in Bondi and the upcoming Lale Farm project in the Hunter Valley. With a focus on quality, value, and strategic partnerships, the company continues to deliver standout residential projects in Sydney and beyond.

In Market Insights EP 76, Adam Sparkes from McGrath Projects discusses the growing importance of Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) with Urban.com.au CEO Mike Bird. With increasing concerns over construction quality, LDI provides a 10-year structural defect policy, giving buyers peace of mind. Projects like Grandview in Castle Hill have leveraged LDI as a competitive edge, boosting buyer confidence and sales. Research shows that 70% of buyers are willing to pay a premium for this assurance. Sparkes encourages developers to adopt LDI, as it enhances trust, marketability, and long-term project success.