Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

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One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

Joel Robinson

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

WM Residences fills gap in Mordialloc townhouse market

&nbsp;

Developer GURNER™ Group has revealed $1.65 billion in residential sales nationally across the 12 months to December 2025, driven largely by the continued momentum of its Docklands wellness-focused precinct, Elysium Fields.

The sales result was generated across seven projects in Victoria and New South Wales, headlined by Elysium Fields, GURNER™’s $2.75 billion mixed-use precinct planned for Harbour Esplanade in Docklands.

The project has recorded more than $500 million in sales across the first three towers, equating to around 580 apartments sold.

The first tower, Helios, has now sold out of its 240 private residences, with GURNER™ preparing to release a premium penthouse collection comprising 15 three-bedroom penthouses in coming weeks.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370975]

Elysium Fields is being developed on the long-held 20,000 sqm Docklands site at 208-226 Harbour Esplanade, which had remained undeveloped for more than two decades prior to GURNER™ taking over the project around four years ago.

Construction has now commenced across four towers ranging between 18 and 30 storeys, with Hamilton Marino and Maxcon appointed as builders.

Once complete, the precinct is expected to comprise around 1,100 residences, alongside retail, hospitality and public realm uses integrated throughout the site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370981]

Designed by Fraser &amp; Partners in collaboration with GURNER™ Design House, the project has been positioned around the developer’s broader focus on wellness-led residential living.

“We don’t sell apartments. We create a true luxury lifestyle that simply doesn’t exist elsewhere in the market today,” Founder and Executive Chairman Tim Gurner said.

“To deliver that requires an extraordinary level of detail, coordination and discipline across multiple verticals, from design and hospitality through to wellness and service.”

“We’ve always believed that living extends far beyond the physical residence. It’s about how you feel the moment you arrive, how you live day-to-day, and the ecosystem that supports that.” 
[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370977]

The project’s design places a heavy focus on landscaping, wellness amenities and biophilic design principles.

Plans include around 3,700 sqm of landscaped gardens and open space throughout the precinct, alongside a retail and dining offering spanning approximately 5,000 sqm.

The broader public realm strategy centres around what GURNER™ describes as the “Path of Life”, an urban forest and landscaped pedestrian environment intended to connect the various buildings and wellness spaces across the precinct.

The apartments themselves will incorporate a range of wellness-focused inclusions, including purified air and water systems, circadian lighting, antimicrobial surfaces, and optional in-home wellness upgrades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370980]

Gurner said the company’s experience through its Saint Haven wellness clubs had directly informed the residential offering now being incorporated into Elysium Fields.

“We’re seeing a clear global shift toward longevity, performance and proactive health,” Gurner said.

“Our role is to deliver that in a way that feels seamless, highly private and beautifully resolved within the environments we create.”

A large component of the wellness offering is planned through the resident amenity and health facilities proposed within the precinct.

That includes plans for bathing and recovery facilities spread throughout the towers, incorporating mineral pools, saunas, steam rooms, flotation therapy, red light therapy and wellness lounges.

The developer is also seeking approvals for what it describes as a “reverse ageing medical clinic” within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370978]

According to project information released by the group, the proposed facility would include cryotherapy, IV infusion therapy, infrared and dry saunas, PEMF beds, MRIs, DEXA scans, brain scans and blood analysis services.

Within the first tower, Helios, residents will also have access to a dedicated amenity offering known as the Sky Private Club.

The upper 15 levels of the building will include private lounges, dining spaces, rooftop amenities and optional private wellness studios integrated within residences.

The Helios tower itself comprises 260 apartments ranging between 60 sqm and 300 sqm, including a collection of penthouses.

That includes a planned two-storey penthouse spanning around 600 sqm with uninterrupted bay views.

The Elysium Fields precinct is being delivered in partnership with Digital Harbour Holdings, a consortium that includes the Liberman family, which controls the development rights across the Docklands site.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144441 project_image_fid=370979]

The sales result comes as GURNER™ continues expanding its national development pipeline beyond Victoria.

“We have a strong pipeline across Australia and are now focused on scaling into key markets including New South Wales and Queensland, while continuing to build on our Melbourne base,” Gurner said.

“We currently have more than $3 billion in the market, growing to over $5 billion by October, and expect to materially outperform last year in the 2026 calendar year.”

The result also reflects the continued strength of the upper-end apartment market in Melbourne, particularly for owner-occupier-focused product with large-scale amenity and lifestyle offerings.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144441]

Record result anchored by the Group’s “utopian” Elysium Fields precinct – defying market headwinds in Docklands.

Elysium Fields drive Gurner to $1.65 billion in apartment sales over 2025

National Australia Bank (NAB) will fund <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-gold-coast-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a>, a $1 billion, 52-level luxury residential tower being developed by Central Equity in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held coastal locations at Northcliffe.

The project, launched recently by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-equity">Central Equity</a>, one of Victoria’s largest private residential developers, comes at a time when construction funding for large residential developments has become increasingly competitive as lenders tighten exposure to the sector.

Multiplex has been appointed the builder, and construction is now underway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365784]

Since its first project, Central Equity has delivered more than 85 residential developments with a combined end value exceeding $8 billion.

Palmera reflects Central Equity’s growing focus on the Gold Coast luxury apartment market and continues a relationship between Central Equity and NAB that dates back to the late 1980s, when the bank funded one of Melbourne’s earliest inner-city residential towers at a time when high-rise apartment living in the CBD was largely unproven.

“NAB’s funding of Central Equity’s $36 million CBD development in the late 1980’s to the financing of the billion-dollar tower today highlights the long-term relationship between the two organisations in delivering major residential projects” said Central Equity Founder and Chairman Eddie Kutner.

He said NAB’s early support was instrumental in helping establish the company’s development model.

“When we commenced our first residential tower in the late 1980s the concept of funding off-the-plan apartments was still largely untested in Australia,” Kutner said.

“NAB recognised the opportunity early and supported the project when others were uncertain. That relationship has now continued for more than 37 years across many developments.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365771]

Central Equity was established in 1987 when Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank precinct were still dominated by warehouses and commercial buildings. Fewer than 100 residents lived in Southbank at the time, and large-scale residential development in the inner city was not widely considered.

Recognising changing demographics and lifestyle preferences, the company began developing high-rise residential projects designed to bring permanent residents into the city centre.

Central Equity has provided accommodation for approximately 40,000 residents across Melbourne’s CBD and Southbank, while also incorporating supporting infrastructure including essential lifestyle facilities like retail spaces, childcare facilities and neighbourhood activity centres.

Central Equity has spent many years assembling the Palmera development site on the corner of Garfield Terrace and Frederick Street in Northcliffe, creating a supersite of around 3,300 sqm.

The developer said the Palmera apartment tower reflects its long-term view of the Gold Coast as a growing and increasingly diversified economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365768]

Supported by infrastructure including the light rail network, major road upgrades expanded education, hospital and medical facilities and continued expansion at the Gold Coast Airport with more international and domestic flights.

Positioned in the tightly held Northcliffe precinct, the 52-level tower will deliver 347 apartments, targeting buyers seeking a high-end coastal lifestyle, from downsizers to interstate investors.

Designed by Marchese Partners with interiors by DBI, Palmera has been conceived as a next-generation residential offering, featuring a collection of oversized apartments, with premium three-bedroom residences offering sweeping northern views stretching from Surfers Paradise through to Burleigh Heads.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

NAB funds $1 billion Surfers Paradise apartment development, Palmera

Two years after completing one of the newest developments in North Sydney, developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aqualand-australia">Aqualand</a> is turning its attention to the rapidly evolving St Leonards apartment market.

The developer, which completed AURA by Aqualand on North Sydney's Walker Street, has lodged plans for a 5,918 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/33-37-herbert-street-st-leonards-nsw-2065">33-37 Herbert Street, St Leonards,</a> seeking approval for a pair of residential towers rising above a shared podium opposite Royal North Shore Hospital.

The proposal forms part of the broader transformation underway across the St Leonards-Crows Nest precinct, where former industrial and commercial sites are increasingly being redeveloped into high-density mixed-use projects tied to major transport infrastructure.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2cc428cf-fe70-4cac-9cd5-264ad53af62c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=otKSnHtbjAvAddOnovyXQMgcAwE6DMe1" />

According to the planning documents, the site sits “within the St Leonards–Crows Nest Strategic Centre, identified by the NSW Government as a key area for accommodating future jobs and housing across Sydney.”

The proposal has been designed by fjcstudio, formerly FJMT Studio, and is being progressed through the State Significant Development pathway due to its scale and affordable housing provision.

The scheme would comprise 413 apartments, including 46 affordable housing units, alongside retail and commercial uses fronting Herbert Street. The project would also include communal open space, landscaping, a swimming pool, gymnasium, children’s play areas and podium-level resident amenities.

Planning documents show the development would consist of a part-13, part-39 storey tower form positioned above a four-storey podium.

“The development comprises a unified podium that activates the street interface, and two setback towers to accommodate new housing supply while maintaining an appropriate human scale at ground level,” fjcstudio noted in its Design Report.

The northern and southern towers have been shaped to respond to the surrounding skyline while also limiting overshadowing impacts to nearby public open space, particularly Talus Reserve.

The design report said the differing tower heights were intended to “contribute to a varied skyline while responding to the surrounding built form context and solar access considerations.”

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36da62dc-ff9e-41f2-a7e3-7be38373751c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.45%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=Mo6Rp2r.XRLTzIfg_PEEpw8NepDH8UBs" />

The site sits directly opposite Royal North Shore Hospital and within walking distance of both St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

While the site itself sits just outside the formal Crows Nest Transport Oriented Development boundary, the planning documents repeatedly reference its alignment with the broader TOD objectives reshaping the Lower North Shore.

“The site is located adjacent to St Leonards Station and in close proximity to Crows Nest Metro which is within the Crows Nest Transit Orientated Development Accelerated Precinct which has been identified by the NSW Government to support housing delivery,” the Design Verification Statement noted.

According to fjcstudio, the project has been designed to respond to the broader transition occurring across St Leonards, where increasing residential density is being concentrated around transport infrastructure and employment hubs.

“The broader precinct is undergoing significant change, with a mix of existing mid-rise buildings and newer high-density developments,” the report stated.

“Recent and approved projects indicate a consistent shift toward taller built form, typically organised as tower-and-podium typologies with more active ground levels.”

The proposal includes close to 6,000 sqm of retail and commercial space across the ground floor and podium levels, designed to create a more activated street edge along Herbert Street.

Aqualand’s plans would also introduce a landscaped podium shared between the two towers, with communal open space in the form of a podium rooftop designed to support resident interaction and improve urban greening outcomes. The scheme would also introduce pocket parks at the northern and southern ends of the site, including a landscaped area at the corner of Herbert and Ella streets designed to improve pedestrian amenity and soften the streetscape.

&nbsp;

The proposal is being progressed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, which was introduced to accelerate housing supply across the state. The application was declared State Significant Development in April 2025 following an expression of interest process.

<img alt="Aqualand" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="faf6d97d-2671-454f-b85a-fe1c6a7be608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%209.51.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=diVd28OBVr5.YV.7prrOz.uAanwwwm7a" />

St Leonards has been particularly active with new developments in recent weeks. Developer SP Setia’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-sp-setia-targets-st-leonards-skyline-with-40-storey-tod-tower">plans for a new 42-storey tower</a> recently went on exhibition through the same pathway, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">Stockland’s 52-storey tower proposal</a> was also recently unveiled.

Aside from the St Leonards project, which is expected to take around nine months to move through the approvals process ahead of a potential 2027 launch, Aqualand is also preparing to launch Boronia, a new apartment project in Roseville comprising around 111 apartments on Larkin Street.

The developer also has approvals in place for the next stage of the Barangaroo precinct, which will feature new residential, retail, hospitality and community uses, alongside a new metro entry across the five-hectare site.

More than 50 new retail destinations are planned for Central Barangaroo, alongside a 270-metre-long boulevard connecting Hickson Park to Nawi Cove. Together with Harbour Park, more than 50 per cent of the precinct will comprise public open space and parkland.

First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party

Roberts Co has entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Arada, one of the world’s fastest-growing property developers in Australia.

The acquisition is supported by a $50 million capital injection into Roberts Co’s Australian balance sheet, consisting of the previously announced $25 million recapitalisation and an additional $25 million in new funding from Arada.

This investment strengthens Roberts Co’s financial position, stabilises operations, and provides the foundation for strategic expansion beyond its New South Wales base, with a focus on new opportunities in Queensland, including the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions.

With Arada’s international resources and financial backing, Roberts Co will broaden its portfolio across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors, reinforcing its strong market position in New South Wales and setting itself to capture growth in one of Australia’s most dynamic construction markets.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said Roberts Co has a proud Australian heritage, an outstanding delivery record, and a strong reputation for collaboration with clients and partners.

"By combining this expertise with Arada’s global scale and financial capacity, we are creating a platform for sustained growth in the Australian market,"&nbsp;Alkhoshaibi said.

“Our $50 million capital injection, including new funds from Arada, underlines our commitment to both stabilise and expand Roberts Co’s operations, particularly into the fast-growing Queensland market. We see significant potential in South-East Queensland’s pipeline and are confident Roberts Co is well placed to deliver lasting value for clients and communities.”

George Kostas, CEO of Roberts Co, said Queensland, and particularly South-East Queensland, is one of the most active and opportunity-rich regions in Australia right now.

"The lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games will bring unprecedented investment across housing, transport, and infrastructure. Roberts Co is eager to play a major role in that transformation and secure a meaningful share of this fast-growing market.”

Arada pours more funds into Roberts Co, flags expansion into South East Queensland construction market

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Golfing entrepreneur Greg Norman is set design two premium golf courses in the south-west of Sydney.
The golfing champion’s company will redesign an existing Peter Thomson-designed 18-hole course in a collaboration with property developer Sekisui House and club operator, Wests Campbelltown, for the redevelopment of Wests Campbelltown’s existing 18-hole Camden Lakeside Golf Course. 
The 1993 course is the only Sydney one designed by five times British Open Winner Peter Thomson and his design partners, Ross Perrett and Mike Wolveridge.
Norman will also build a new nine-hole course within Sekisui House's 280-hectare site, <a href="https://www.sekisuihouse.com.au/nsw/Communities/Our-Communities/The-Hermitage,-NSW" target="_blank">The Hermitage at Gledswood Hills</a>, which is about 12 kilometres from Campbelltown.
Located in one of Sydney's newest suburb, Gledswood Hills, The Hermitage is Sekisui House's first masterplanned community in Australia.
The Hermitage will offer up to 1,800 premium home sites. 
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Gledswood Hills is bounded by Camden Valley Way to the west, Raby Road to the north and Gregory Hills Drive to the south. The land featured the El Caballo Blanco property along with the heritage homestead, Gledswood.
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Since its launch in 2012, more than 600 properties have sold in the masterplanned community. 
Norman’s design company was responsible for the development of Stonecutter’s Ridge Golf Club near Blacktown. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sekisui House snares Greg Norman golf course for south-west Sydney estate 

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The second season of Channel 7’s renovation show House Rules made a strong debut earlier this week, attracting <a href="/expert-insights/building/johanna-griggs-house-rules-triumphant-second-series-debut">1.87 viewers on Wednesday night</a>. 
Six couples will compete to make over each other’s houses, with the winning team’s mortgage completely repaid.
Reality television blog Reality Ravings has revealed each team’s mortgage size.
Victorian couple Adam and Lisa will bring home the biggest net sum if they win the competition, with a mortgage of $520,000 on their 1960s weatherboard home according to the website. The couple bought the three bedder two years ago.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/adam%20and%20lisa.JPG" width="4200" height="2800">
Brooke and Grant took on the smallest mortgage of any of the contestants. They have $258,000 of debt attached to their home in Tasmania’s Huon Valley. The two bedroom farmhouse Grant purchased six years ago is home for the couple and their seven children. According to the couple, prior to the competition they considered moving Brooke out of the home to make more room for the family.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/brooke%20and%20grant.JPG" width="5472" height="3649">
Western Australian couple Russell and Carole have the second smallest mortgage. The 28 year old home they purchased off Gumtree has landed them with a $290,000 mortgage.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/carole%20and%20russell.JPG" width="4824" height="3208">
Candy and Ryan, the first couple to have their home renovated, have the second highest mortgage. The youngest team competing this season, Candy and Ryan have $400,000 of debt attached to the red brick home they purchased mid last year.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/candy%20and%20ryan.JPG" width="4929" height="3280">
Queenslanders Maddi and Lloyd reportedly have a $369,000 mortgage on their Townsville home. The tilting home house backs onto a nature reserve and is a few streets back from the coast.
<img src="/images/2014/05/02/maddi%20and%20lloyd.JPG" width="5627" height="3751">
 Mel and Bomber have $380,000 of debt attached to their period home. The couple live in the house with their four children. The 110 year old weather board was purchased at a mortgagee sale.
 <img src="/images/2014/05/02/bomber%20and%20mel.JPG" width="3966" height="2818">
 
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Channel 7’s House Rules: The contestants and their mortgages

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The Johanna Griggs hosted House Rules second series debut was triumphant last night with 1.18 million metropolitian viewers.
There were 1.87 million viewers including the regions, with a younger audience tuned in this year, according to the OzTam ratings.
The ratings for the Channel 7 renovation home show was 47% up on its 2013 launch night.
But more significantly it was up 9% on the 2014 debut ratings of The Block earlier this year.
The first rundown home for renovation is from Candy and Ryan in western Sydney with a $437,000 mortgage.
It was a slow start last year for the House Rules series with its host Johanna Griggs telling Property Observer last season that its slow but sure success came from "people power."
"This show has people power to thank as more &amp; more people spread the word, &amp; to 7 for sticking by us!" the host Johanna Griggs tweeted last season to Property Observer.
<a href="https://twitter.com/JohGriggs7" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/houserulesjune13one.jpg" alt="houserulesjune13one" width="470" height="141"></a>
This year she expressed relief in her tweet to Property Observer.
<img src="/images/2014/05/01/tweet-may-1-one.jpg" alt="">
The show pits teams of two from all over Australia to compete in the series where the winner's have their mortgage completely wiped.
The state-versus-state renovations, in the series from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, get judged by Wendy Moore the editor of Home Beautiful and Joe Snell who is an architect. There are renovation mentors also back from last year, Carolyn Burns-McCrave and build supervisor Chester Drife.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six homes are aimed to come from a bunch of likeable Australians with interesting back stories.
Candy and Ryan’s house (NSW)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/candy%20and%20ryan.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Candy and Ryan’s red brick veneer three bedroom home was purchased in July 2013. Formerly owned by the Catholic church, their property in Sydney’s western suburbs includes a detached granny flat, a shed and a sizeable backyard.
Lisa and Adam (Vic)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lisa%20and%20adam.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Lisa and Adam own a 1960s three bedroom weatherboard house in Victoria. They purchased the property in April 2012.
Lloyd and Madison’s house (QLD)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lloyd%20and%20madison.jpg" width="460" height="258">
The timber Queenslander owned by young couple Lloyd and Madison is set three streets back from the beach and borders on a nature reserve. It has four bedrooms, but also significant structural problems, including a pretty severe tilt.
Carole and Russell’s house (WA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/carolle%20and%20russell.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Carole and Russell’s house in the Perth hills was advertised on gumtree with the tagline “renovate or detonate”. The two storey home is 28 years old. Russell noted that when the house was first purchased, he kicked the balcony and the whole thing collapsed onto his car below.
Brooke and Grant’s house (TAS)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/brooke%20and%20grant.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Brooke and Grant are raising seven children in their two and a half bedroom 19th century farmhouse in the Huon Valley. The home has one bathroom, with another outhouse in the back and an outdoor laundry. The house is set on three acres.
Bomber and Mel (SA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/bomber%20and%20mel.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Bomber and Mel live in a 110 year old weatherboard home in Adelaide, set a kilometre off the beach. Holes in the floor let in the weather, as well as the local cats. The home was purchased in a mortgagee sale.
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Johanna Griggs' House Rules triumphant second series debut

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With the host of The Block, Scott Cam, taking out the Golden Logie, the award night showed just how much Australia loves its reno shows.
The builder, presenter and author, who first appeared on Channel 9’s Backyard Blitz in 2000, seems to have popped up on just about every renovation program in the past 15 years. Cam has popped up on Renovation Rescue, Domestic Blitz and his own shortlived show, Our Place. 
But earlier this week he sealed his place (or fate) in Australian television history, taking out the Gold Logie for Most Popular Television Personality for his role as the host of Channel 9’s The Block. He also received the award for Most Popular Presenter.
Better Homes and Gardens was the other big property project winner, taking home the Logie for Most Popular Lifestyle Program. It was one of four home renovation themed shows nominated for the award, with Embarrassing Bodies Down Under playing odd-one-out in the category.
Despite the killer ratings run that The Block enjoyed this year, it didn’t manage to take out the award for Most Popular Reality Program, which went to Channel 7’s My Kitchen Rules. The Block franchise is currently churning out twice-yearly seasons, earning nominations for The Block: Fans v Faves and The Block: Sky High.
Property Observer's highlights from this season of The Block:
<a href="/news/substance-over-style-as-chantelle-and-steve-win-the-block-2014-fans-v-faves">Substance over style as Chantelle and Steve win The Block 2014 Fans V Faves</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/kyal-demmrich-on-the-trials-and-triumphs-of-the-block">Kyal Demmrich on the trials and triumphs of The Block</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/the-block-on-show-at-this-weekends-open-for-inspection">The Block on show at this weekend's open for inspection </a>
Open for inspection: The Block Fans v Faves doors open to the public this weekend
<a href="/news/raw-timber-and-red-brick-industrial-design-on-the-block">Raw timber and red brick: Industrial design on The Block</a>
<a href="/news/art-styles-for-apartment-d-cor-lessons-from-the-block">Art styles for apartment décor: Lessons from The Block</a>
<a href="/news/creating-the-perfect-new-york-style-loft-lessons-from-the-block">Creating the perfect New York style loft: Lessons from The Block</a>
 
Picture courtesy of Wikipedia/Creative Commons.
 
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Property the real winner at the 2014 Logies

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Property owners with green thumbs will be out in full force over the Anzac Day break. With a long weekend up your sleeve, here are 10 tips to beautify your garden and add value to your property.
<ol>
<li>
Get weeding The least glamorous part of gardening is also the first task you need to tackle this weekend. Prise the plants from the paving and cull the clover before you get to the fun parts. Weed seeds often inhabit the ground beneath existing plants, so you’ll have to regularly dig out weed sprouts in addition to applying weed killer for a fair few months. If you are tempted to let things get a bit wild, make sure you tend to the weeds before they go to seed. 
</li>
<li>
Purge the pests Slaters, snails, bugs and birds will all take a bite out of your garden if you give them a chance. If you have fruit plants which you’re planning to harvest, try throwing some nylon netting over to keep birds away. You can take the netting off once harvest season is over to let the birds get at any spoiled or unused fruit, and they’ll also take care of lots of the bugs that plague your crop. Good planning can also keep the nasties away, with some plants deterring insects. If you’re going to try to kill some bugs, try to use natural pesticides where possible. 
</li>
<li>
Super soil Now’s the time to get the fundamentals right. This weekend, you can set up a worm farm to aerate your soil. A starter kit will set you back about $50. You can also start a compost heap that will fertilise your soil in the months to come. Commitment is the key to good compost. Make sure you have a designated scrap bucket to contribute to the heap every day, and turn your compost regularly. 
</li>
<li>
Feed and fertilise Most plants enjoy a good feed, but with seasonal demands, timing is everything. Research what your plants need coming into winter. Azaleas and Camellias will benefit from a small dose of watered in cow manure, but other plants will need less food before the cold season. 
</li>
<li>
Prune those plants Now’s the time to lop off any rosehips and dead flowers. Trim back spent flower heads, and remove any branches that are clearly dead to the world. In between plants, rinse of your secateurs to prevent spreading any disease. 
</li>
<li>
Go shopping Had big plans for al fresco dining that never quite materialised? Now’s the time to pick up some garden furniture, with demand (and prices) dipping after the summer rush. Before you head out, make sure you measure the available space and have a clear idea of what you want and can afford. 
</li>
<li>
Plan and plant Here’s the fun part: planting. If you’re set on laying down some new plants this autumn, make sure they’ll survive the winter. What’s best will depend on your climate, so take the time to check out one of the many autumn planting guides online. For much of the country, beetroots, silverbeet and lettuce will all do well if you’re after an edible garden. 
</li>
<li>
Be water wise Australian buyers are increasingly becoming aware of <a href="/expert-insights/building/buyers-want-water-wise-gardens-for-hot-and-dry-summers">the need to conserve water</a>.  Now is the perfect time to buy and install a rainwater tank if your property has the room. With the winter rains on their way, a rainwater tank installed now will collect plenty of water for the dry summer months. 
</li>
<li>
Sweep Once you’ve done all the fun stuff, it’s time to clean up. Clear the garden paths, the footpath in front of your house and the driveway. You’ll be surprised what a quick tidy up can do for your home. Now that autumn leaves are starting to fall, a quick regular sweep once a week will save you a lot of time further down the track. 
</li>
<li>
Fix up that fence Side fence sagging? Perhaps that picket fence that looked so friendly when you first moved in is starting to rot. Replace and repair any rotted or broken sections of your front fence, and collaborate with your neighbours to fix the boundary that’s been falling down for the past ten months. While you’re at it, oiling the squeaky gate will only take 30 seconds.
</li>
</ol>
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10 tips to beautify your garden this weekend

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Renovation reality television has returned with Channel 7’s second season of House Rules. 
Each of the six teams will compete to renovate another team’s home, with the team producing the best results winning the full some of their mortgage. 
The home with the biggest mortgage will have the most to gain out of the renovation exercise. 
So far, Channel 7 is keeping the purchase price and mortgage of each home under lock and key. Assuming each team took on the same proportion of debt, which do you think has the biggest mortgage?
Candy and Ryan’s house (NSW)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/candy%20and%20ryan.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Candy and Ryan’s red brick veneer three bedroom home was purchased in July 2013. Formerly owned by the Catholic church, their property in Sydney’s western suburbs includes a detached granny flat, a shed and a sizeable backyard.
Lisa and Adam (Vic)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lisa%20and%20adam.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Lisa and Adam own a 1960s three bedroom weatherboard house in Victoria. They purchased the property in April 2012.
Lloyd and Madison’s house (QLD)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/lloyd%20and%20madison.jpg" width="460" height="258">
The timber Queenslander owned by young couple Lloyd and Madison is set three streets back from the beach and borders on a nature reserve. It has four bedrooms, but also significant structural problems, including a pretty severe tilt. 
Carole and Russell’s house (WA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/carolle%20and%20russell.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Carole and Russell’s house in the Perth hills was advertised on gumtree with the tagline “renovate or detonate”. The two storey home is 28 years old. Russell noted that when the house was first purchased, he kicked the balcony and the whole thing collapsed onto his car below.
Brooke and Grant’s house (TAS)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/brooke%20and%20grant.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Brooke and Grant are raising seven children in their two and a half bedroom 19th century farmhouse in the Huon Valley. The home has one bathroom, with another outhouse in the back and an outdoor laundry. The house is set on three acres.
Bomber and Mel (SA)
<img src="/images/2014/04/24/bomber%20and%20mel.jpg" width="460" height="258">
Bomber and Mel live in a 110 year old weatherboard home in Adelaide, set a kilometre off the beach. Holes in the floor let in the weather, as well as the local cats. The home was purchased in a mortgagee sale.
Property Observer will follow the full details as they emerge on the series so that we know just how much the prize could be. 
{module Which home do you think has the greatest mortgage based on initial impression and locality?}
 
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Channel 7's House Rules returns for season two

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Have a reno planned for this Easter weekend coming (or some home improvement), then play it safe is the message from Consumer Affairs Victoria.
It might not be glam, but it is falls that are on their radar, with eighty-two people passing away in Victoria between 2000 and 2011, in particular the elderly.
Eighty-two people died after falling from ladders in Victoria, between 2000 and 2011, with most of these people being aged over 65.
However, there are a number of safety issues for all Australians looking to give renovating an attempt.
LADDER TIPS Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria
<ul>
<li>Before getting on the ladder:</li>
<li>Check that your ladder is in good condition</li>
<li>Place it on dry, firm and level ground</li>
<li>Check all safety locks and braces are in place.</li>
</ul>
Other things to check:
<ul>
<li>Ensure the ladder has non-slip safety feet</li>
<li>Read safety warnings and follow the manufacturer's advice</li>
<li>Wear non-slip footwear</li>
<li>Keep people and vehicles away from the ladder while you are working</li>
<li>Work within your arm’s reach and avoid leaning out</li>
<li>Only climb as far as the second step from the top of a step-ladder or the third step from the top of a straight ladder</li>
<li>Never put the ladder on top of other objects to gain extra height.</li>
</ul>
ASBESTOS TIPS
Another common area of safety scares are when it comes to asbestos. We have written a number of articles about preparing for this eventuality.
With renovations becoming increasingly popular, and <a href="/news/asbestos-found-in-one-in-four-pre-purchase-inspections">asbestos reportedly found in one in four building inspections</a>, it makes sense to be careful around this deadly material. Apparently, <a href="/news/nsw/how-is-asbestos-affecting-you-61-of-renovators-exposed">61% of renovators are exposed</a>.
Don't let this <a href="/expert-insights/investing/asbestos-is-a-silent-killer-and-our-ignorance-is-putting-people-in-danger">silent killer lurk in your home</a>.
<a href="/news/how-to-choose-a-building-and-pest-inspector">Choose a good building and pest inspector</a> when you purchase, or before any extreme renovations, so you know what you're up against.
This will quickly alert you to the asbestos that you should call the professionals in for. Don't DIY asbestos removal and disposal. Keep your mouth and nose covered when around the substance.
GENERAL TIPS
Unless you have been trained in certain areas, we recommend bringing in the professionals.
Electricity - get an electrician in to do the difficult jobs around power. It just isn't worth the potential danger.
Balcony fixing or installation - <a href="/expert-insights/investing/before-the-fall-balcony-safety-regulations-are-still-falling-short">Too many deaths have happened</a> to make this an excusable area for a dodgy reno. 
Swimming pools - Once again, this is a high risk area. Bring in the experts and ensure you're compliant.
When undertaking a renovation, ensure to have protective measures for all those on site - face masks, goggles, gloves and appropriate clothing. Be orderly and organised, and have required medical supplies with you at all time.
Ensure your Easter renovation works out as successfully as you had hoped!
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Easter weekend renovators: Tips from Consumer Affairs Victoria

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Home buyers prepared to take a leap of faith in their pursuit of unconventional housing could find a converted church is the answer to their prayers. This Easter week our property contrarians, Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok, discuss recent sales and listings of blessed buildings.
Converting a church to a residence allows for enormous creative flair within a hallowed space ripe for residential resurrection - especially if it retains original ecclesiastical features including high vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows and timber arches. But they might need smart heating strategies.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-fitzroy-114936195" target="_blank">Fitzroy, Victoria</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
One such property is the Bible Christian Church at 278 Gore Street, Fitzroy in Melbourne. The handsome circa 1860 building was sold for $3 million last October by Sydney shopping centre heiress, Betty Saunders-Klimenko, through Nelson Alexander Real Estate. 
Bought by the Matear family, it is constructed of bluestone with tall brick-embellished Georgian windows and a wide Greek-Revival style façade added in 1911.
With vast living spaces and soaring ceilings, it has a splendidly proportioned dining area with a faded painted banner, proclaiming “Holiness Becomes Thy House”, which testifies to the building’s provenance.
Converted 10 years ago into a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house with a six-car garage, the converted Fitzroy church was sold at a loss by Saunders-Klimenko who purchased the property for $3.41 million in June 2012. It previously traded at $684,000 in 2001, and at $15,500 in 1976. Earlier this month News Ltd papers reported Betty Saunders-Klimenko she was forced to take out a personal bank loan, of about $10 million, after spending a staggering $40 million on the motor racing team that had made her one of Australia’s most popular female sporting figures.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/fitzroy%20april%2017%20five.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-st+kilda-116341371" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">St Kilda, Victoria</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/st%20kilda%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
Also in Melbourne, an apartment in a former Wesleyan church at St Kilda sold for $1,175,000 two weeks ago through Hocking Stuart agent, Kehren Eade. 
At the rear of the circa 1858 church in Fitzroy Street, the two-bedroom apartment incorporates the original church vestry which is converted to a splendid formal sitting room. It also features vaulted original timber ceilings, ornate cedar support beams and leadlight windows. 
Situated in idyllic seaside surrounds, and directly opposite Albert Park Lake, the landmark bluestone church is the focal point of Alameda, a residential complex also incorporating a new modern apartment building. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/st%20kilda%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/st%20kilda%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/st%20kilda%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/st%20kilda%20april%2017%20five.jpg" alt="">
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.reviewproperty.com.au/property/for-sale/rural/wa/parkerville/?adid=2011053898" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Parkerville, Western Australia</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/parkerville%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
At Parkerville near Perth in Western Australia, a lavish 35-hectare estate featuring a private chapel within its grounds, is for sale at $12.95 million through Cam Marron of Marron Real Estate.
Built by a previous owner of the property, the chapel has views across a pictureque lake set at the rear of a grand two-storey Georgian style mansion decorated with gold leaf, ornate plasterwork and six Waterford chandeliers. 
Named Lilybrook, the property also features a tree-lined driveway, a guest cottage, a summer cabana and BBQ area, a swimming pool, floodlit tennis court, horse paddocks, stables, macadamia tree plantation, storage sheds and 650,000 litres of rainwater tanks. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/parkerville%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/parkerville%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/parkerville%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
 
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-kojonup-114276583" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Maradup, Western Australia</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kojonup%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
At the other end of the price scale is a converted church in the tiny township of Muradup, situated 18 kilometres west of Kojonup (between Albany and Perth) in Western Australia. 
For sale at $260,000 through Michael Scott of Ray White Crofts &amp; Associates, 
the circa 1957 double brick and tile church has been converted to a two-bedroom home with a large open-plan living area featuring original polished jarrah floors and stained glass windows.
Featuring its original signage, “Mary Help of Christians”, on the front wall adjacent to tall portico entrance, the air-conditioned church stands on a 2,848 square metre block (in Blackwood Road) with lawns, a vegetable garden and satellite dishes for internet and digital television.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kojonup%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kojonup%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kojonup%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-dingee-116189895" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Dingee, Victoria</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dingee%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
One of the cheapest churches on the market is in the peaceful township of Dingee, situated about 50 kilometres from Bendigo in Victoria. For sale at $169,000 through Greg Fathers of Expert Real Estate, it stands on 8100 square metre block in Church Road.
Known as the Yallook church, the circa 1920s church building is ideal for use as a weekender. Substantially renovated into a residence, it has an attractive brick façade, a small vestry portico and original soaring ceilings with timber beams.  Electric power is from a petrol generator and a small solar system, while the kitchen stove uses bottled gas. Outside are water tanks and a small garden shed. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dingee%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-talbot-112124919" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Talbot, Victoria</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/talbot%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
Also in Victoria, historic St Andrews Church at Talbot is for sale at $385,000 through Julie Powell and Tash Martin at PRD Ballarat. 
About one hour’s drive from Melbourne, Talbot is in the heart of the Victorian Goldfields, and at the edge of the Pyrenees wine region. From the property, it’s a 15 minute drive to the townships of Maryborough and Clunes, and 25 minutes drive to Avoca and its surrounding wineries.
Built 150 years ago as a Presbyterian church, the building has been converted into a residence with all the modern conveniences. Set on a 2140 square metre block landscaped with native plants and an outdoor eating area, the rendered double brick building has an insulated roof, a wood heater and overhead gas heating for winter warmth. 
Operated as self-contained holiday accommodation, it has been reviewed in the The Age, Channel 7’s Coxy's Big Break, and Channel 9’s Postcards program.
Two minute’s stroll from the church are the town’s swimming pool, tennis courts, pub, restaurant/cafe and monthly farmers market. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/talbot%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/talbot%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/talbot%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
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<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-dooralong-115935967" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Dooralong, New South Wales</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dooralong%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
In NSW, a rustic church at Dooralong, near Wyong on the Central Coast, is sale at $430,000 through Darin Butcher of Wiseberry Heritage. 
One of the most iconic buildings in the Valley, this old rustic church has been converted into a tasteful two bedroom cottage with original features including leadlight windows. 
Brimming with character, the heritage-listed timber building stands on a 2,000 square metres with lawns and a beautiful outlook.  
Featuring wide outdoor deck, it has a large living area, timber country-style kitchen, a main bedroom (with an en-suite bathroom), a second bedroom and a main bathroom.
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dooralong%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dooralong%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dooralong%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/dooralong%20april%2017%20five.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-kangaroo+valley-116709947" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales</a></li>
</ul>
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kangaroo%20valley%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
In the Kangaroo Valley, between Berry and the Southern Highlands in NSW, an 1889 church is for sale sale at more than $480,000 through Sandra Knight of Raine &amp; Horne Berry. 
On a 1288 square metre block in Moss Vale Road, the converted church stands on the side of a hill near the edge of the village and opposite Kangaroo Valley showground. 
Remodelled in 1966, and recently converted to a stylish residence, it has two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan living room with a five-metre high ceiling, a stained glass window, a prayer cupboard and a pulpit incorporated into the kitchen.
 <img src="/images/2014/04/17/kangaroo%20valley%20april%2017%20two.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kangaroo%20valley%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
 
<img src="/images/2014/04/17/kangaroo%20valley%20april%2017%20four.jpg" alt="">
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HE SAID:<img src="/images/2014/03/28/jc-silhouette-7.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
Churches converted to residences can look wonderful from the outside, but I really don’t think the interiors work well, especially if everything is put within the existing space. An extension is typically required. For someone like me who’s fond of standing on a soapbox, I especially find the adaptive reuse of the pulpit to be a problem. 
Therefore, of the churches listed above, I’d choose the converted church in Kangaroo Valley (below) where the pulpit is cleverly merged with the kitchen island joinery, so I could stand at the bench and preach to my dinner guests.  
 <img src="/images/2014/04/17/kangaroo%20valley%20april%2017%20three.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/03/28/mb-silhouette-6.jpg" alt="" style="float: left;">SHE SAID:
For me, it’s the historic St Andrews Church at Talbot in the heart of the Victorian Goldfields, and close to the Pyrenees wine district. Not only do I think it would be a terrific weekender, but also I rather fancy the regular jaunts to Redbank Winery at Avoca to stock up on award winning Sally’s Paddock wines.
While stripped of its altar and pews, St Andrews (pictured below) is a converted church with tremendous character and beautiful original features including its windows and timber lined ceiling.  The overhead gas heating for winter warmth also is a winner. 
 <img src="/images/2014/04/17/talbot%20april%2017%20one.jpg" alt="">
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Converted churches as unconventional housing: He Said/She Said

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A West Australian building company, Kalamunda’s Heritage Homes (WA) Pty Ltd (registration number 9081) and company director Paul Vincent Monkhouse, have been ordered by the Building Services Board to pay $3,500 for negligent conduct.
Heritage Homes was found to have failed to reduce to writing a total of 41 variations to home building contract working, according to an ASIC release. This is an action required under the Home Building Contracts Act 1991.
These offences were recorded as occurring between April 2009 and June 2011. They were in relation to a contract, that had been entered in to in April 2009, for a Nedlands house. The house was to have renovations and extensions, and it was valued at $458,700.
Routine checks were carried out by the Building Commission. Building Commissioner Peter Gow explained that the Home Building Contracts Act sets out the minimum requirements for contracts. It applies to home building, and associated work, costing between $7,500 and $500,000.
As a result of non-compliance, the company was fined $2,500. Monkhouse, as director and nominated supervisor, copped a $1,000 fine.
“The act is in place for a good reason; it protects both the home owner and persons undertaking home building and associated work,” said Gow.
“One of the requirements of the act is that any variation to the contract must be reduced to writing and signed by both the builder and the owner.”
This is a requirement that ensures property owners are given to accept or reject any variation to a contract before it occurs, and are not hit by additional fees at the end of the building process that they were not aware they had consented to.
“The Building Commission will continue to name those who put consumer interests and the reputation of the building industry at risk,” Gow concluded.
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Heritage Homes (WA) Pty Ltd and director to pay $3,500 for unlawful contract changes

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After months of watching the four teams of The Block: Fans v Faves battle it out to produce the best apartment, viewers will tomorrow night finally get to see which property beats the rest.
Closure will come a little earlier for the contestants themselves, with the Albert Park apartments going up for auction at 5pm tonight. While there will be plenty of spectators, Property Observer guesses that self-represented buyers won’t be the major bidders of tonight’s auction.
The big players are likely to be the usual suspects of Melbourne’s buyers’ agent scene. Frank Valentic of Advantage Property Consulting will be there; the buyers’ agent has been <a href="https://twitter.com/FrankValentic" target="_blank">busy on Twitter</a>, posting pictures of himself and his kids with contestant Dale and host Scott Cam on his tour of the apartments. 
Viewers may remember Frank from last year’s The Block: Sky High, where he bid on all five apartments, successfully securing the final apartment renovated by Matt and Kim for a single woman from Glen Iris.
As for which team will win, the final result will be anyone’s guess.
KYAL AND KARA
<blockquote>
Kyal and Kara's- First impressions count, and this might not cut it. 
</blockquote>
While Kyal and Kara’s apartment at <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/2-47-o-grady-street-albert-park/Property-Details-buy-residential-6831567?gclid=CMW7svjcz70CFUchpQodXVkA9Q" target="_blank">2/47 O’Grady Street</a> (pictured below) has the best upstairs terrace by far, with high quality finishings, their living area feels the smallest of all the four apartments. While we noted <a href="/expert-insights/the-block-on-show-at-this-weekends-open-for-inspection">after the open for inspection</a> that this wasn’t such a bad thing, first impressions do count with buyers – and two storeys up is a long way to travel for the eventual return.
<img src="/images/2014/04/08/2%2047%20albert%20park%20april%208%20one.jpg" alt="">
ALISA AND LYSANDRA
<blockquote>
Alisa and Lysandra's- Light-filled but perhaps not one for emotional buyers.
</blockquote>
The twins’ <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-albert+park-116350463" target="_blank">apartment at 3/47</a> (pictured below) makes itself known immediately upon entering, with its huge light filled kitchen. However, the void is compensating for the apartment’s south-west aspect, and eats up space from the bedrooms. While the finishings in their apartment are high quality, the bedroom spaces in particular do feel quite cold, which may turn off emotional buyers.
<img src="/images/2014/04/08/1.jpg" alt="">
STEVE AND CHANTELLE
<blockquote>
Steve and Chantelle's- Despite teething problems, there's value to be had. 
</blockquote>
While Steve and Chantelle’s struggles were well documented on-screen, in reality <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/apartment-unit-flat/vic/albert-park/?adid=2011049155" target="_blank">their apartment</a> (pictured below) has a great northerly aspect and is well planned. While some of the furnishings and styling choices may read a little tacky, a smart buyer with value in mind will disregard the superficial details of 1/47 and recognise its underlying value.
<img src="/images/2014/04/08/15.jpg" alt="">
BRAD AND DALE
<blockquote>
Brad and Dale's- Leaves a strong impression and is a strong contender.
</blockquote>
Brad and Dale’s <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/4-47-o-grady-street-albert-park/Property-Details-buy-residential-6799205" target="_blank">apartment at 4/47</a> (pictured below) is clean, bright, and makes a strong impression. In particular, its living room and kitchen area feels expansive, with high ceilings and bright décor. The boys have been smart to accentuate the size of their kitchen and living areas and their master bedroom. 
<img src="/images/2014/04/08/3.jpg" alt="">
At Property Observer, our money is on Brad and Dale, on the strength of their living and kitchen spaces and terrace views, with Steve and Chantelle's bright apartment coming in second.
Before tomorrow's finale, brush up on The Block with our highlights from the season:
<a href="/expert-insights/buying/kyal-demmrich-on-the-trials-and-triumphs-of-the-block">Kyal Demmrich on the trials and triumphs of The Block</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/the-block-on-show-at-this-weekends-open-for-inspection">The Block on show at this weekend's open for inspection </a>
Open for inspection: The Block Fans v Faves doors open to the public this weekend
<a href="/news/raw-timber-and-red-brick-industrial-design-on-the-block">Raw timber and red brick: Industrial design on The Block</a>
<a href="/news/art-styles-for-apartment-d-cor-lessons-from-the-block">Art styles for apartment décor: Lessons from The Block</a>
<a href="/news/creating-the-perfect-new-york-style-loft-lessons-from-the-block">Creating the perfect New York style loft: Lessons from The Block</a>
<a href="/news/vic/five-renovation-lessons-from-last-nights-the-block-fans-v-faves">Five renovation lessons from last night's The Block: Fans v Faves</a>
 
 
 
 
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