Why Sydney buyers are rushing to The Hills’ latest release

Sydney’s Hills District is quickly emerging as a hotspot for buyers.

Data from Realestate.com.au shows that Sydney house prices have increased by around 3-5% over the past year, while buyer interest in Norwest has increased by 15% year-on-year when searching on realestate.com.au (September 2025).

It’s a clear sign that demand is exceeding the city average.

With the Sydney Metro now running every four minutes, plus thriving shopping and business centres, Norwest offers the space and lifestyle buyers want without giving up city connectivity.

At the center of this momentum is Zeste: the last chance to get a brand new apartment in The Orchards.

Unlike projects still in progress, Zeste offers oversized homes, resort-style amenities and a turnkey community from day one.

Why Norwest is fast becoming the lifestyle capital of the Hills District

Part of the vibrant Hills District, Norwest is quickly emerging as a growth center attracting buyers from Sydney.

Located 30km northwest of Sydney’s CBD, this area offers everything buyers are looking for, from modern homes to retail and employment centers.

But it is the excellent connectivity to transport that reinforces its desirability, says David Lee, Sales Manager at Sekisui House.

“Now that the Sydney Metro has actually opened, access to the city has really been created,” he says.

“Commuters can live in a place that is part of the Hills, adjacent to a world-famous golf club, and still be at Martin Place within 40 to 45 minutes, with a tube service every four minutes.”

The area has many amenities: from schools to shopping centers, parks and activity centers.

Additionally, Norwest Marketown is centrally located and offers supermarkets, restaurants and shopping options, meaning residents have everything on their doorstep.

In the heart of Norwest, the final phase of the release of The Orchards Masterplan, Zeste represents the last opportunity for buyers to get into the heart of this community and its luxury offering is turning heads, says Mr Lee.

Zeste offers high-end living in the heart of one of Sydney’s most vibrant growth centres.

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Within Zeste: elevated apartment living with room to grow

Designed by renowned architect Rothelowman, Zeste epitomizes luxury living with expansive layouts and meticulous attention to detail.

“It has to be delivered or built over two buildings,” Mr Lee explains.

“There will be a very diverse mix of apartments ranging from one-bedroom options to four-bedroom options to cater for the diverse demographic we see in the area.”

The one to four bedroom apartments are beautifully designed and many have flexible rooms.

Mr Lee said the 40 two-bedroom Breezeway Sky Homes offer a unique approach to apartment living.

“The new ‘breezeway apartments’ feature an open breezeway instead of a traditional enclosed lobby, allowing residents to step directly outside,” Mr Lee explains.

The homes are north-facing with large kitchens, various storage areas, study alcoves and more, specifically tailored to downsizers who “want to sell the family home but don’t want to live in something small,” Lee explains.

“They want that room so the grandkids can come and stay, but it’s easier to maintain,” he says.

He adds that all homes in Zeste are above average in size, with units averaging around 102 m², compared to the 90 m² of the previous phases.

What is unique about the release is that it appeals to owner-occupiers.

Windward corridors are a unique feature of Zeste’s exclusive Sky Homes.

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From Sky Homes to resort-style pools, the features driving the buzz among buyers

Zeste residents will have access to an array of resort-style amenities, rarely surpassed in luxury.

Some of the amenities include an outdoor swimming pool with BBQ and dining areas, and an exclusive communal building in the courtyard.

The communal building offers living, dining and kitchen areas perfect for entertaining, as well as a quiet study area and meeting room – all exclusive to Zeste residents.

“We added a lagoon pool as a community facility, with cabanas and outdoor BBQ areas,” says Mr Lee.

“This is part of the Master Plan Committee’s vision to make the project feel special.”

In addition to these exclusive facilities, residents also have access to The Orchards’ wider amenities, including additional swimming pools, landscaped gardens and communal areas that enhance everyday living.

“The development is surrounded by open green spaces, leisure parks and beautiful landscaping, providing a direct connection to nature, with a creek running through it,” Mr Lee said.