How to choose an apartment development
As Perth evolves to become a more compact and connected city, apartment living is becoming a more popular housing option.
Whether you’re a first-home buyer looking for a more affordable option, a downsizer seeking lock-and-leave convenience, or simply someone drawn to the vibrant possibilities of vertical communities, this guide is here to assist you in finding an apartment that truly enhances your lifestyle.
Finding your perfect location
Location remains the paramount consideration when selecting an apartment.
Urban connectivity: Perth’s expanding public transport network makes inner-city apartments increasingly accessible. Consider proximity to train stations, bus routes, and the growing network of cycling paths.
Coastal living: Our magnificent coastline offers unique apartment opportunities. Developments in Cottesloe, Scarborough, and Rockingham provide ocean views and beach access, though they come at a premium.
When evaluating locations, consider Western Australia’s unique climate patterns. Northern-facing apartments capture winter sun while avoiding harsh summer heat, particularly important in our hot, dry summers.
Evaluating quality and construction
Western Australia’s building regulations have evolved significantly to ensure quality and safety across the apartment sector.
When considering an apartment, it is a good idea to research a developers track record by considering other projects they have completed, particularly in the local market.
Prospective buyers should also research who developers’ builder partners are, evaluating their previous projects and capacity for delivery.
For piece of mind and to get a feel for the design quality and construction that a developer has delivered previously, it is a good idea to visit completed projects in person (if possible) to experience them for yourself.
This is a great way to determine if a developer is delivering apartments that are likely to be the right fit for your lifestyle.
Size matters
When evaluating apartments, think beyond your individual unit to consider the entire living ecosystem. The size of your apartment matters, but so does the scale of the building and the shared spaces that extend your living area.
Start with your unit’s spatial requirements. Consider not just current needs but future possibilities; can you accommodate guests, work from home effectively, or pursue hobbies within the space?
Storage often proves more valuable than anticipated, particularly when seasonal items like beach gear and outdoor furniture require somewhere to live.
Shared spaces within the building can dramatically expand your effective living area. A well-designed communal rooftop might serve as your entertaining space, while a ground-floor garden courtyard could function as your backyard.
These areas prove especially valuable in smaller units, providing breathing room that makes compact living comfortable rather than cramped.
Building scale can significantly influence your living experience. A 250-unit tower offers different dynamics than a boutique 50-unit mid-rise development.
Larger buildings typically provide more extensive amenities, perhaps multiple pools, fully equipped gyms, or dedicated co-working spaces. However, the larger amount of people living in the one building might not suit everyone.
Boutique developments might not have the same level of amenity, but can foster strong community connections if they are designed with resident connection in mind.
Consider the surrounding amenity that extends your apartment living beyond the building itself. Is there a park across the street that serves as your backyard? Are cafes and restaurants within walking distance? The immediate neighbourhood becomes part of your extended living space, which is particularly important in compact apartment living where every square metre counts.
Life-enhancing amenities
Apartment developments often feature amenities tailored to the local lifestyle. The best developments incorporate thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces such as barbecue areas, rooftop gardens, or communal courtyards that take advantage of WA’s outdoor-oriented culture.
Cooling features like pools and water features provide welcome relief during Perth’s hot summers, transforming apartment living during the warmer months.
Many developments now include shared facilities that foster connection while respecting privacy, with dining rooms, high-tech gyms and cinema room facilities all encouraging a sense of community.
Some precincts even cater for furry friends, with pet exercise areas increasingly becoming a common offering in large-scale apartment towers.
When touring potential apartments, envision how these amenities complement your personal lifestyle.
A dedicated home office space might be essential for remote workers, while secure bike storage serves an active lifestyle.
Of course, all these amenities come at a cost, both upfront and ongoing in terms of strata fees, so it is critical that buyers take these costs into account when it comes to budgeting.
Understanding WA strata regulations
Western Australia’s strata regulations differ from other states. Familiarise yourself with:
- The Strata Titles Act 1985 (WA) as amended in 2018, which governs strata schemes
- The role of the WA Strata Community Association
- Local council restrictions that may affect renovation plans
Request and review strata meeting minutes for any development you’re considering, to understand management issues, upcoming maintenance, and the financial health of the strata scheme.
Future-proofing your investment
Developments in areas targeted for government infrastructure investment often show stronger long-term growth potential.
The current Metronet expansion and urban renewal projects in established suburbs signal areas where apartments may appreciate more steadily.
Additionally, properties with strong rental potential, particularly those near universities and hospitals, can provide income security even during slower economic periods.
For long-term liveability, assess how the apartment might adapt to your changing needs over time.
An apartment that works for a young professional may need different features to accommodate a growing family or support aging in place.
Flexible floor plans and developments with a mix of amenities tend to retain their appeal across different life stages and economic cycles.
Navigating the purchase process
Begin by securing finance pre-approval, keeping in mind that many lenders apply different lending criteria for apartments under a certain size or in high-density areas.
Working with a mortgage broker familiar with Perth’s apartment market can help navigate these nuances.
Next, engage a local property lawyer to review the contract of sale and strata documentation, as Western Australian strata laws have distinctive features that differ from eastern states.
Following this legal review, arrange a thorough strata records inspection to uncover any potential issues with the building’s management or finances. This step proves invaluable in identifying developments with healthy reserve funds versus those facing potential special levies.
Before finalising your purchase, commission a specialised apartment building inspection focusing on both the individual unit and common property.
In coastal environments, particular attention should be paid to signs of salt damage or water ingress issues that can be costly to remedy.
For those considering off-the-plan purchases, carefully research the sunset clause provisions and investigate the developer’s history of delivering projects on time specifically in the Western Australian market. You can find out more about buying off the plan in our blog here.
Local experience matters significantly, as developers accustomed to Perth’s approval processes and construction challenges typically deliver more reliable outcomes.
Apartment living in Western Australia offers a unique blend of convenience, lifestyle, and investment potential.
By carefully considering your personal priorities and conducting thorough research into developers, locations, and building quality, you can find an apartment that not only meets your immediate needs but supports your lifestyle for years to come.