1. What are the best new apartment developments on the Gold Coast?

The “best” depends on your goals. Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and Palm Beach apartments with ocean views are extremely popular across most buyer profiles. Downsizers often favour boutique projects in Main Beach and Burleigh Heads. Investors often see value in Chevron Island and Southport.

Because projects sell out quickly, it’s wise to compare across multiple developments with someone who tracks all current releases rather than relying on a single agent’s stock.

2. How does buying off-the-plan work in Queensland (QLD)?

You purchase based on plans and renders, pay a deposit (usually 10%), and settle on completion in 2–4 years. This allows time for construction and for the market to move.

It’s important to review contracts carefully and compare across projects to ensure the timelines, inclusions, and developer reputation suit your needs.

3. What deposit is required for off-the-plan apartments on the Gold Coast?

Most developers require 10% of the purchase price on signing. Occasionally, smaller deposits (5%), Deposit Bonds or staged payments are offered, depending on the project.

Because terms vary, it’s helpful to check multiple projects to see what deposit structures are available before committing to one option.

4. Are there first home buyer grants or incentives for new apartments in QLD?

Yes. The Queensland First Home Owner Grant offers $30,000 for eligible buyers on new homes up to $750,000 (as of 2025). There are also federal schemes like the First Home Guarantee.

If you’re buying above these price caps, it’s still useful to seek advice on structuring finance and timing purchases to make the most of available incentives.

5. What are the risks of buying off-the-plan?

Risks include delays in construction, potential changes in market value before settlement, and developer solvency issues. Variations in finishes or inclusions can also occur.

Independent guidance helps mitigate these risks by checking developer history and ensuring contracts include protective clauses.

6. What is a sunset clause, and why is it risky in QLD property contracts?

A sunset clause sets a maximum completion date. If the project isn’t finished by then, the contract may be terminated. In QLD, developers cannot use sunset clauses to cancel contracts without buyer consent, but it’s still something to monitor closely.

Having someone review this alongside you provides confidence that the clause is fair and aligned with your expectations.

7. Which Gold Coast suburbs are best for new apartments?

• Broadbeach: Dining, retail, transport, luxury towers.

• Palm Beach: Boutique beachfront, café lifestyle.

• Burleigh: Strong lifestyle appeal, premium pricing.

• Southport/Chevron: More affordable entry points.

Choosing the right suburb depends on whether your focus is lifestyle, rental yield, or long-term capital growth.

8. How much does a new two-bedroom apartment cost on the Gold Coast?

Entry prices currently start around $1.3m in most new projects, with beachfront or premium towers ranging $5m–$10m+.

With pricing moving quickly, reviewing current project launches side by side helps confirm what’s fair value at the time you buy.

9. What are the hidden costs of buying property on the Gold Coast?

Expect stamp duty, legal fees, and ongoing costs such as body corporate, insurance, and rates. Large amenity buildings may carry higher body corporate fees.

Factoring these in upfront, and comparing across projects, avoids surprises at settlement.

10. Is buying off-the-plan a good investment in 2025?

It can be, particularly in areas with population growth, infrastructure investment, and lifestyle demand. Buyers benefit from securing at today’s prices with a delayed settlement.

The key is matching the right project to your long-term goals, which is easier with an independent overview of all options.

11. Can I use government schemes to buy with a small deposit?

Yes. Schemes like the First Home Guarantee allow eligible buyers to purchase with as little as 5% deposit without paying LMI.

Because availability and eligibility can change, checking this across different lenders and projects ensures you don’t miss opportunities.

12. How long does it take to settle on a new apartment off-the-plan?

Settlement generally occurs 2–4 years after contract signing, once construction finishes and titles are registered.

Working with someone across multiple projects helps align your settlement timeframe with your financial planning.

13. Are there defects or issues commonly found in new strata buildings?

Minor defects are common, such as paint touch-ups or joinery adjustments. Major issues are less common with reputable developers, but can happen if due diligence is missed.

Choosing projects with proven developers and builders greatly reduces the risk—this is an area where professional comparison is valuable.

14. How do I choose an independent advisor vs. the developer’s agent?

Developer agents represent the seller. An independent advisor represents you, comparing all projects and highlighting risks or better options.

If you want confidence you’ve considered every option, not just the one with the biggest sales push, working with an independent advisor is the safest path.

15. What’s the process of buying a home/apartment on the Gold Coast?

• Identify goals and budget.

• Shortlist suitable developments.

• Review contracts and inclusions.

• Pay deposit and exchange.

• Construction and progress updates.

• Settlement on completion.

Each step carries choices that affect your outcome, so having guidance ensures you don’t miss critical details.