Real Estate Archives - Parkes Phoenix

Building With Parkes In Mind: The Story Behind Bushmans Ridge

May 21, 2026 By Roxane Manley

On the edge of Parkes, just minutes from town, a new lifestyle estate has quietly taken shape.

Bushmans Ridge, developed by Giles Land Development, is more than a land release. It is the result of careful planning, local knowledge, hands-on work, and a simple idea: create large, practical lifestyle blocks where families can build with confidence and room to grow.

Located on Jones Street, Bushmans Ridge offers generous residential lifestyle lots with wide open space, big horizons, and the convenience of being close to the Parkes town centre. With seven lots currently available, priced from $310,000 to $360,000, the estate has been designed for buyers who want more than a small suburban block, but still want access to town services, schools, shops, sport, health services and community life.

For Peter and Nartayliah Giles, the project is also personal. We are a family building estates for families, Peter said.

Our background is in mining, engineering and property development, so we approach land a bit differently. We do not just look at a block and think about how it can be sold. We think about what it will be like for the family who builds there, what problems we can solve early, and how we can make the process easier for the next person. That mindset has shaped Bushmans Ridge from the start.

Giles Land Development’s first subdivision, Old Pine Estate, was a 29-lot lifestyle development that gave the team a strong understanding of what buyers are really looking for when they choose larger residential blocks in Parkes.

The lessons from that project have carried into Bushmans Ridge – particularly around access, services, drainage, fencing, compliance, and making the lots as build-ready as possible.

At Bushmans Ridge, the major groundwork has already been completed. giving buyers a clearer starting point when planning their future home. For many families, that preparation matters.

Buying land can feel overwhelming, especially when there are unknowns around services, drainage, approvals, site preparation and future building costs. Bushmans Ridge has been developed to reduce those unknowns as much as possible.

We have tried to do the hard thinking up front, Peter said. A lifestyle block should feel exciting, not confusing. Buyers still need to do their own due diligence and work with their builder, but our goal has been to present a clean, practical, well-prepared estate where people can see the opportunity clearly.

The estate sits within an R5 Large Lot Residential zoning, which supports the type of lifestyle many Parkes families are looking for – space for a shed, gardens, pets, room for children to play, and a bit more breathing room, while still staying connected to town. That balance is one of the key attractions of Bushmans Ridge.

Parkes continues to be a regional centre with strong longterm prospects. Major investment connected to Inland Rail, the Parkes Special Activation Precinct, transport, logistics, agriculture and local business is helping position the town for continued growth. As Parkes develops, housing choice becomes more important – not just more houses, but different types of housing and land options for different stages of life.

Large lifestyle lots play a role in that mix. Some buyers want a place to raise a family. Some want room for a workshop or shed. Some are looking for a quieter block with views and space around them. Others are thinking long term and want to secure land while Parkes continues to grow. Bushmans Ridge has been created with those buyers in mind.

The available lots range from approximately 3,081sqm through to 15,000sqm, giving buyers a range of options depending on the type of lifestyle they are looking for. While the estate is now sale ready, the project has taken significant work behind the scenes. Stormwater, boundary fencing, services, approvals, building pads and final compliance all form part of the development process, much of it unseen once the estate is finished.

Because we live here, our projects matter to us, Peter said. We drive past them. We see the families who buy in them. Our kids are growing up in this town. So we care about doing things properly and creating something we can be proud of in ten years’ time, not just on settlement day.

Bushmans Ridge is now open for enquiry, with seven lots available. For buyers considering building in Parkes, it offers a chance to secure land with space, services and a clear path forward.

Peter and Nartayliah Giles pictured with their children,River and Mila.

Community Invited To Comment On Housing Strategy

March 5, 2021 By Maggi Barnard

The community is invited to submit comments on the Parkes Shire Housing Issues Paper currently on public exhibition until 31st March.

Parkes Shire Council is preparing a housing strategy to plan for the future housing needs in the Parkes Shire.

The Parkes Shire Housing Strategy will set a 20-year vision for housing in the shire, in line with the NSW Government’s Local Housing Strategy Guideline and the Parkes Local Strategic Planning Statement 2041.

The strategy also aims to address the full range of housing needs for the community, with a focus on areas where there are gaps in the housing market.

A Housing Issues Paper has been prepared to share the findings of Council’s preliminary investigations and encourage discussion and inputs from the wider community. The issues paper draws on a range of inputs, including demographic, housing and economic data, housing policy guide-lines, housing sector strategies and studies undertaken for other places.

“As Parkes attracts more residents, the provision of well located, diverse and good-quality housing is important to ensure that our Shire continues to increase its high standards of living and remains welcoming and accessible to a wide variety of people,” said Mayor of Parkes Shire Cr Ken Keith OAM.

Council has a role to play in facilitating the supply of new housing that better matches the community’s preferences and needs. To plan for future needs, Council must set a strategic direction for housing policy to better inform land-use zoning and other planning controls.”

Council is inviting the community to submit comments on the Parkes Shire Hous-ing Issues Paper that is currently on public exhibition until 31st March, as well as complete the Housing Preference Survey. Visit yoursay.parkes.nsw.gov.au to view the issues paper and to complete the survey. Alternatively, send a written submission to Council at PO Box 377 Parkes NSW 2870. Hard copies of the survey will also be available at Parkes Shire Council’s Administration Office at 2 Cecile Street, Parkes.

Want To Know The Value Of Your Home?

September 11, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

Our local property market is certainly very interesting at the moment. We are experiencing low stock levels and good demand from buyers, especially first home buyers and investors.

With spring in the air, now is traditionally the time people think about selling, whether it is your own home or investment, it is easier to move around and get things done when we have pleasant weather conditions.

Recently my phone has been ringing, with out of town investors looking at our region, as our home prices are low and rental returns high. I have also had more mature people considering a quieter life and looking to move west to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Obtaining a current market appraisal on your home may help you make important decisions about whether to stay or go, or should you borrow money to renovate, or find out how much equity you have for investing purposes.

At the appraisal appointment, I do a walk-through of your home, have a chat to you about the property, and can usually give you a price estimate on the spot, followed by a written report if needed. The process takes around 20 minutes with the aim to give you a price range of your current market value and offer any advice that may help with your decision making.

To book your property appraisal please contact Tara Kelly at Century 21 Central West 0418 465 407. Servicing Forbes, Parkes and Eugowra.

Are You A Good Tenant?

September 4, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

If you are searching for a rental property to move into, the question ‘Am I a desirable renter?’ might not have even crossed your mind, but it should. A good landlord will go out of their way to find desirable tenants.

A desirable tenant is someone who has a proven record that they are financially responsible and can take care of the property and follow the rules of the lease agreement.

Remember, if you are a tenant and are searching for a rental property and it sparks your interest, then it is likely that other people will feel the same about it. Make yourself stand out from the competition by going through this checklist below:

• Consistentlypayingyourrentontimeand having a good rental payment history.
• Adhering to the terms and conditions of your lease agreement.
• Treat the home as your own, with respect and care for the property.
• Maintaining the property, keeping it clean and tidy.
• Communicate with your landlord and report any issues promptly.
• Have good quality references – previous rental history is best.

A glowing rental history will make you stand out against other applicants and will have landlords keen to have you as a tenant. Quite often, great tenants are rewarded in small ways by their landlords as they are keen to keep you in their property.

For more information regarding becoming a tenant, or completing rental applications, please contact the Property Management team at Century 21 Central West. Servicing Forbes, Parkes and Eugowra.

Great Presentation Pays Off

August 28, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

Spring is only a few days away and it is a popular time of year for many people to sell their home.

First impressions are lasting impressions. If they drive by and get the feeling that the property is appealing, they are more likely to want to book an inspection.

Great presentation can add thousands as it helps people imagine their new lifestyle and brings out strong feelings and emotions, which leads people to be inclined to pay more.

If buyers see the property needs repairs and maintenance or a massive clean up, they are naturally going to offer much less.

The main thing is to have a clean and tidy property, regardless of the age of the house.

The next step is to declutter. You want people to be able to envision themselves and their furniture in the home.

It is also a good idea to fix any small things that need attention such as torn window screens, doors that don’t open and close properly and leaking taps.

Many people are paying professionals to style their home. This is becoming more popular. It depends on the circumstances – if the property is vacant, the property sale price and client’s budget and the target market!

Remember your home is going to be all over the internet, so you want it to look fabulous! We work with you to make your home look its absolute best so we can get the best price for you!

If you would like find out more, contact the team at Century 21 Central West.

Rental Bonds

August 21, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

Today I would like to share some information with you regarding rental bonds. At the beginning of a tenancy, we ask the tenant to pay a bond for the rental property which is equivalent to four weeks rent.

The bond is only four weeks rent regardless of how many tenants occupy the property, and it is used as security for the property in case the tenant does not follow the terms of the agreement and they need to compensate the landlord.

Rental bonds are required to be lodged with the Rental Bond Board. These days we lodge bonds using rental bonds online. The bond lodgement details include the rental property address, the landlord and landlord’s agent, and the primary tenant.

To ensure they get the bond back, tenants need to make sure the property is left in the same condition as when they first rented the property, except for fair wear and tear. If the tenant has damaged the property, or not left it in a clean and tidy condition, or if they owe rent or other money to the landlord, they may forfeit some or all of their bond.

If there is a dispute over the bond at the end of the tenancy, then the matter is taken to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

We hope that helps you understand rental bonds a little more, and if you have any questions regarding this topic or would like assistance with managing your rental property, we are more than happy to assist at Century 21 Central West for all your property management needs.

Land Acquisition On Just Terms

August 21, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

With the State Government seeking to acquire land either by negotiation or resumption in our area, it is worth considering the law relating to this.

The NSW Land Acquisition (Just Terms Compensation) Act, 1991 was introduced to prevent land resumptions without compensation. Section 55 of the Act provides the heads of compensation:

a. the market value of the land on the date of its acquisition,
b. any special value of the land to the person on the date of its acquisition,
c. any loss attributable to severance,
d. any loss attributable to disturbance,
e. the disadvantage resulting from relocation,
f. any increase or decrease in the value of any other land of the person at the date of acquisition which adjoins or is severed from the acquired land by reason of the carrying out of, or the proposal to carry out, the public purpose for which the land was acquired.

Some of these heads of compensation might not apply in each case, but the first step would be to get a registered land valuer, who is familiar with the Act, to provide a comprehensive valuation report on these heads of compensation. It is important to remember valuations are opinions and valuers often differ in how they arrive at their valuation.

You will also need a lawyer to advise you and undertake the legal work involved. It is worth noting that loss attributable to disturbance includes legal costs, valuation costs, financial costs, stamp duty, mortgage costs and more.

Compulsory acquisitions are a very complex area and you may need our help. For further information contact us.

What To Look For In An Investment Property

August 14, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

Today I am discussing all the things you should be looking for when purchasing an investment property.

It is important to look for a property with desirable qualities, as this is going to assist you in the long run with aspects such as how long it takes to fill the home, how much rent you can get per week, and the quality of tenant you attract.

The location of the property is important, properties within close proximity to town and main areas such as schools and facilities are desirable.

It is also helpful to consider the condition and quality of the property, purchasing a property that will continuously require work and problems is not ideal for any investor.

Tenants often desire a more modern and comfortable home, sometimes this may be a minor face lift to the home.

Another area to focus on is the neighbourhood, as this will sometimes affect the type of tenants that you do attract.

It is crucial to do your sums beforehand, as cash flow is always king when aiming to ensure an adequate return on investment.

Once you have selected the perfect investment home, it is time to choose a property management team that will provide you peace of mind and security. After all, you want your property to be in the best managing hands.

For more information regarding our property management services, feel free to contact us at Century 21 Central West.

Are you in need of a great property manager?

August 7, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

A good property manager can help increase the value of your investment property and make sure you are achieving a consistently good rental yield or return. Here are some important qualities you should look for:

1. Strict leasing procedures, including stringent tenant selection, consistently achieving the best rental rate, and planning annual rent reviews in advance.

2. Proactive habits around repairs and maintenance, like performing regular routine inspections for to address necessary repairs/maintenance.

3. Thorough knowledge of current legislation is essential. It is important to ensure your property manager is always up to date! As part of the Century 21 franchise, we are exposed to a multitude of property management training. We are also members of the REI, and attend the annual REI roadshow.

4. Clear and concise communication is also key. How easy is it to speak to your property manager? Can you reach them after hours? Do they return your calls promptly? Are their routine inspection reports thorough enough and do you receive photos with your report? Are your statements delivered promptly? Do you have an efficient landlord portal that you can login to and have all your important info when required?

Here at Century 21 Central West we strongly believe that we deliver on all of these points and provide the most reliable and honest service. If you are unhappy with your current service, please do not hesitate to contact us today to discuss how we can help you.

Under Offer/Contract What Does It Mean?

July 31, 2020 By Maggi Barnard

When an offer to purchase a property is accepted by the seller, it is generally referred to as ‘under offer’. This means that the agreement on price, terms and conditions has been reached, however the seller and buyer still need to sign the contracts and exchange.

Depending on various terms and conditions agreed upon during the negotiation phase, it can take several days to progress from the offer being accepted to the contracts being exchanged.

During this time the buyer or the seller may withdraw from the agreement.

In NSW two identical contracts are prepared – one is signed by the seller, the other by the buyer. Solicitors or conveyancers will exchange the contracts, however if the property is sold on auction the real estate agent usually exchanges contracts.

After the contracts have been exchanged, it is referred to as ‘under contract’. With a private treaty sale, the buyer has a five-day cooling off period. However, the buyer would be required to pay the seller 0.25% of the purchase price as a penalty for withdrawing from the sale.

Auction properties do not have cooling off periods. If a property is sold prior to auction, or on auction day, the buyer must complete the purchase or risk losing their 10% deposit.

Most agents put the Sold sticker on after contracts have exchanged and the cooling off period has expired.

When the property transaction is completed, which is commonly 42 days after exchange, it is referred to as settlement and the new owner takes possession of the property!

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