Factual property deal show big loss

Here is an example of a unit sale and following the journey of successive owners..
216/16 Mann drive Brompton
https://www.realestate.com.au/prope...4ep-pdp|sold-pdp:property-history-cta#history

Sold June 2014  for $394500
Stamp duty approx. 16k  so owes $410k

Sold in  February 2015  for  $373K So owner lost minimum $37k  if no agent fees taken in account


New owner would have paid $15 k in stamp duty etc   so owes new owner $380 k approx..

Now for sale again $365 -$375

So owner again losing $5k plus agent fees   
https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-sa-brompton-126788030

It puts a different perspective on "investment" and apartments in Adelaide.. Those buying now.. will they make a positive return in 1-5 years ???