What is the true cost of buying an apartment in Kensington?

The median apartment in Kensington is $1,150,000. Including stamp duty ($46,280), strata, council rates, insurance, and mortgage repayments, the true first-year cost is approximately $82,280, or $6,857/month.

What does it really cost to buy a house in Kensington?

The median house in Kensington is $2,850,000. True first-year cost including stamp duty ($139,160), rates, insurance, maintenance, and mortgage repayments is approximately $192,282.

What is the vacancy rate in Kensington?

Kensington currently has a vacancy rate of 2.1%. Properties average 28 days on market.

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True Cost of Buying in Kensington

2033 NSW · 6km to CBD

Stable

A decision, not just a search · Kensington

Does the lower estimated monthly cost make a property the better buy?

Only under the assumptions entered—and cost is not the whole decision. This model compares scenarios, not lender approval, building condition or personal suitability. Replace defaults with current quotes and documents, then test whether the cost remains manageable when circumstances change.

Questions that could change the answer

Which costs are current supplied figures, and which are model defaults?
What happens to your buffer if interest, repairs or vacancy costs rise?
What finance, contract or inspection condition remains unresolved before an offer?

Evidence to obtain—not yet verified here

Current lender terms and approval conditions, not only a borrowing estimate.
Dated levy notices, rates, insurance quotes and maintenance information.
Contract advice, inspection findings and comparable sales evidence.

Other options: Lower the price limit, compare another property or wait for critical checks. A favourable model result is not a recommendation to make an unconditional offer.

Next action: Re-run the existing calculator with documented inputs, then agree your conditions and walk-away point with the relevant professionals.

When to revisit: Revisit when any input, approval condition, price or property finding changes.

General decision guidance—not a property assessment, personal recommendation or verified client result. Dates on surrounding market content apply to that content, not to checks on your property.

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Market Intelligence

Kensington is a prestigious inner-eastern suburb located 6km southeast of Sydney CBD, dominated by the University of NSW campus which significantly shapes its character and demographics. The suburb attracts a highly educated, multicultural population with a strong representation of young professionals, academics, and international students. Property is predominantly apartments and townhouses, with limited detached housing stock driving premium prices. The completion of the light rail extension in 2019 has enhanced connectivity, while proximity to Centennial Park, Prince of Wales Hospital, and quality educational facilities adds to its appeal. The rental market is particularly robust due to consistent student demand, though it experiences seasonal fluctuations aligned with university terms. Limited local retail requires residents to venture to nearby Randwick or the CBD for shopping needs. The suburb offers excellent walkability, strong public transport links, and benefits from ongoing UNSW campus redevelopment. Investment prospects remain strong given the stable institutional demand, infrastructure improvements, and prime location, though buyers should be aware of the student-driven rental market dynamics and premium pricing reflecting the suburb's educational and locational advantages.

Home to UNSW main campus providing stable rental demandExcellent transport connectivity including light rail to CBDPrime location 6km from Sydney CBD with easy accessBorders Centennial Park offering extensive recreational spaceHigh-quality educational facilities and academic environment

Market Snapshot

Median House

$2.9M

+8.5% 1yr

Median Apartment

$1.1M

+6.8% 1yr

Median Townhouse

$1.9M

Vacancy Rate

2.1%

28 avg DOM

Yield (Apartment)

4.8%

Yield (House)

3.2%

Auction Clearance

78%

Population

14,500

True Cost Breakdown

Based on median prices · 20% deposit · 6.5% interest · 30-year term · Owner-occupier

Apartment

$6,857/mo

Purchase Price

$1,150,000

Stamp Duty

$46,280

1st Year Total

$82,280

House

$16,024/mo

Purchase Price

$2,850,000

Stamp Duty

$139,160

1st Year Total

$192,282

Townhouse

$10,702/mo

Purchase Price

$1,950,000

Stamp Duty

$89,660

1st Year Total

$128,420

Run Your Own Numbers

These are median figures. Plug in the actual property you're looking at to see your real all-in cost — including first-home concessions, investment deductions, or different deposit amounts.

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