Crows Nest's TOD Precinct: A Landowner's Guide to Maximising Returns
The Crows Nest area is on the cusp of a significant transformation with the introduction of the Transport Oriented Development (TOD) precinct. This initiative is designed to enhance connectivity and liveability around key transport hubs, notably the new Crows Nest Metro station. For Crows Nest property owners this development presents an exceptional opportunity to maximise returns on your investment.
The boundary adjustments in the final SEPP surprised some landowners, with properties previously expected to be excluded now included in the accelerated precinct. If you own property in the precinct, learning how to optimise its value as a development site is critical. Developers approach these opportunities with strategic precision and great expertise, so landowners must be equally well prepared to secure the best possible result.
Why Developers Value Crows Nest
Crows Nest is one of Sydney’s most sought-after locations for development due to its:
Proximity to Sydney CBD and direct connection via the new Metro line.
Plans for 5,900 new homes and 2,500 jobs, making it a thriving residential and commercial hub.
Strong demand for high quality housing and mixed use developments on the lower North Shore.
For developers, the value of your property lies in its development potential, which is assessed based on what can be built under the new TOD zoning rules—including both mandatory and optional Affordable Housing. Developers rely on precise data and strategic calculations, not approximations like dollars per square meter of Gross Floor Area. As a landowner, you need a similar approach to ensure you understand your property’s unique worth and maximise your returns.
Steps to Maximise Your Property's Value
1. Understand Your Property’s Value to a Developer
The value of your property as a development site depends on factors such as:
The size and configuration of the land.
Potential building height, floor space ratio and other planning controls.
Access to infrastructure, transport, and public amenities.
A detailed analysis by a qualified property advisor is essential to you having a complete understanding of why your property could attract a particular amount and how to position it to attract the best offers.
2. Consider Collaborating with Neighbours – Carefully
Pooling properties with neighbours can increase overall value but proceed with caution. Splitting proceeds solely based on land area can undervalue properties with better frontage, access or strategic importance. Developers calculate value differently, considering these nuances. Developers value properties strategically, which means some properties are worth disproportionately more.
There are several ways to structure agreements with neighbours to share both costs and returns fairly. With professional advice, you can avoid common pitfalls and secure a deal that reflects your property’s true contribution to the development.
3. Negotiate Strategically with Developers
Developers are expert negotiators who understand every aspect of a property’s development potential. Landowners must be equally prepared to:
Understand the terms of negotiation, including sale terms, options, profit sharing agreements or staged payments.
Secure the best price by presenting the property as part of a well planned development opportunity.
Use the leverage of neighbouring properties or unique site characteristics to increase value.
Augusta Advisors has extensive experience in advising landowners on these negotiations. We work with you to ensure your interests are protected and that you achieve the maximum possible return.
Why Acting Now Matters
The inclusion of your property in the Crows Nest TOD precinct is a great opportunity to unlock its full potential and secure significant returns. From our experience advising landowners in other TOD precincts, those who act early typically achieve the best outcomes. Developers are actively searching for sites in Crows Nest right now, and being proactive ensures your property is in their focus before more TOD sites enter the market. Acting early gives you the advantage of preparing thoroughly, positioning your property effectively, and staying ahead in this competitive landscape.
A Trusted Partner for TOD Landowners
Augusta Advisors has successfully helped landowners across Sydney navigate the complexities of rezoning, TOD and developer negotiations. One group in Cammeray achieved a significant improvement in terms and uplift in property value through our strategic guidance and negotiation advice
“To Whom It May Concern
We are owners in a 19 unit block at 23 Rosalind Street. Cammeray, and coordinated our recent successful sale of all units to a developer. Augusta Advisors advised and represented our owner group throughout the negotiation, and their service was outstanding. Thanks to their efforts, we achieved the best possible outcome.
When first approached, we were uncertain about the developer’s offer. After thorough analysis Augusta Advisors clarified our property’s value from the developer’s perspective. They then negotiated with the developer on our behalf and secured an additional $1 million along with other favourable terms such as deposits and settlement. Their extensive experience in representing landowners, combined with their insights into the developer’s tactics and position, was invaluable. Their fee structure was competitive and was coordinated with receipt of payments from the developer so that the owners were not out of pocket. Martin and Wayne from Augusta kept us informed, attended meetings with owners, and worked closely with our lawyer to finalise the legal documentation. They were professional, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with.
We highly recommend Augusta Advisors to other landowner groups. ”
If you are a landowner in the Crows Nest TOD precinct, contact us today to learn how we can help you:
Maximise your property’s value as a development site.
Navigate negotiations with developers confidently.
Explore creative strategies like profit sharing to secure the best outcomes.
Take the First Step Today
With the TOD SEPP now in effect, the opportunity to capitalise on your property’s development potential is here. Don’t let a lack of preparation or understanding hold you back. Contact us for a free consultation and take the first step towards unlocking the full value of your property.