As Perth continues to grow and evolve, so too do the needs and preferences of its residents. In recent years, one clear trend has emerged: West Australians are turning to apartment living, recognising the lifestyle, convenience and long-term benefits.

Whether it’s the low-maintenance lifestyle, having access to better quality and a greater range of amenities, or the desire to simplify without sacrificing comfort, apartment living is fast becoming the preferred choice for a growing number of buyers.

Leading the way is a new generation of downsizers – people who aren’t just moving into something smaller, but something smarter. This is the rise of the right-sizer.

“We’re seeing a big shift in mindset,” says Paul Blackburne, Managing Director of Blackburne.

“Right-sizing is about choosing a better way to live. It’s not about giving something up – it’s about gaining time, convenience and lifestyle.”

Right-Sizing: A Lifestyle Choice, Not a Compromise

Right sizing reflects a major lifestyle shift for those who no longer need a large family home, but still want space, comfort and a sense of luxury. These buyers are often looking to unlock equity, reduce maintenance, and relocate to areas that offer a richer day-to-day lifestyle.

Apartment living has also evolved beyond just the four walls of a home. Today’s premium apartment developments are designed to create a complete living experience, offering not only elegant interiors but also access to resident-only, resort-style amenities.

These residences are also often located near quality shops, cafes, parks, and the beach or the Swan River, promoting an active, social and connected lifestyle with an emphasis on wellbeing.

Importantly, it’s not a ‘one-size-fits-all’ decision. Many buyers are moving from large suburban homes with four or five bedrooms, seeking a residence that better suits their current lifestyle.

“Based on early interest on our City Beach project in particular, most future residents will be downsizing from large homes,” explains Paul Blackburne.

“Many of these homes are underutilised, with kids long having moved out and only one or two rooms regularly in use. That’s potentially 1,000 bedrooms being freed up in the western suburbs and a real opportunity to unlock family-sized housing in an area that’s already highly constrained.”

This is exactly what motivated resident of The Grove Shirley Lavarack to make the move. After years of maintaining her home, she was ready for a change.

“I was tired of the upkeep of a freestanding home,” she says. “At a certain point, it just makes sense to enjoy great facilities without having to do the hard work yourself.”

Shirley chose to buy at The Grove in Claremont, drawn by its exceptional location and resort-style amenities – including a 25m pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, golf simulator, gym yoga studio and private dining facilities.

It is also the sense of community that Shirley sees as one of the biggest benefits of apartment living.

“It’s easy to make friends because everyone moved in around the same time. There is regular get togethers – coffee mornings, a Mahjong group, a library, and last-Friday-of-the-month drinks and nibbles. People really make an effort to connect.”

“The Grove truly feels like a perfect blend of luxury and community, making me appreciate this new chapter in my life even more,” Shirley says.

A Smart Lifestyle Move

Purchasing an off-the-plan apartment is more than a financial decision – it’s an investment in your future lifestyle. With the right developer, it offers a seamless pathway to modern living in a location you’ll love, giving you the time and flexibility to plan your move on your own terms while taking advantage of both financial and lifestyle benefits along the way:

• Time to prepare: A longer settlement period gives you breathing room. It’s time to sell your existing home, which will likely have appreciated itself, organise your finances, and prepare for a smooth transition.
• Secure today’s price: with pricing locked in from the outset, you can benefit from market movement during construction. By the time you’re ready to move in, the apartment may have already appreciated value.
• Stamp duty savings: Eligible buyers can take advantage of the WA Government’s generous off-the-plan stamp duty concession – 50% off (up to $50K*) if contracts are signed before construction begins.
• Designed for long-term liveability: from lift access to smart storage, energy-efficient features and quality materials, new apartments are purpose-built for comfortable, future-focused living. Less upkeep, more time to enjoy your life.

The Power of an End-to-End Property Group

While buying off-the-plan offers huge lifestyle benefits, the transition can be comprehensive. That’s why many buyers are turning to experienced teams who can provide end-to-end support – from securing finance, to buying off-the-plan, and if you’re an investor, managing property in the long term.

Blackburne is Perth’s leading integrated property group, with more than 20 years of experience and a unique in-house model that includes:

• Luxury apartment development, transforming some of Perth’s most iconic locations.
• Australia’s best residential property management team, as recognised at the 2025 national REIA awards.
• An award-winning, specialist mortgage broking team.

Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or ready to make the move, Blackburne’s experienced team can help guide you every step of the way.

To learn more about Blackburne’s upcoming projects, make the switch to Australia’s best property management team or to refinance, visit Blackburne.com.au.