House & Land Autumn Edition

2021 Adviser Autumn Edition

20 pages of Homes, Design Ideas, Land Releases and Lifestyle Opportunities

$132.6M has been spent on commercial

and residential construction since July 2020 in Greater Shepparton

$33.9M Estimated spend for New Commercial projects $98.8M Estimated spend on New Dwellings

Brought to you by

SOURCE: From 1st July 2020 to Jan 2021 Greater Shepparton Building Department Summary of Building

Location, location, location W

HERE you buy or build your home has a profound influence over your ability to meet your existing and future needs. Where you choose to live has a significant impact on the environment and your finances. Remember the real estate adage, ‘location, location, location.’

SELECTING THE RIGHT BLOCK... There are many factors to consider when choosing the right block for your needs. Photo: Supplied

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CHOOSING an appropriate site for a new house, or choosing an existing home and developing it to make the most of its natural attributes yields significant economic, lifestyle and environmental benefits.

THE SITE CHOICE CHECKLIST How does the location suit your lifestyle?

Can it continue to accommodate changes over time associated with your employment, financial position, health, recreational focus, family (new and empty nest), retirement and old age?

Where will the occupants of your home go to work or school, exercise, shop, socialise or get health care? Proximity to these services minimises car trips, saving time, money and the environment.

Can you eliminate the need for a car or second car to save money and help the environment?

Is the site close to public transport or within walking or cycling distance of common destinations?

What type of home do you need?

Units, townhouses and detached houses offer vastly different prices, lifestyle options and access to facilities. A big garden and four bedrooms may no longer be appropriate.

How big a site or house do you need, do you need extra floor area to suit family needs? Are you overestimating how much space you really need (Australians are reported to have the biggest houses in the world)? Keep in mind, filling up the block with a large building footprint leaves less space for outside activities such as play areas for kids and gardening.

SITE EVALUATION Planning controls can have a major influence over your design. Check with our council for easements, setbacks and building restrictions.

Decide which climatic features need to be taken into account, in order of priority, and assess the impact these features will have on your planning.

Determine which climatic features to enhance and which to mitigate in order to increase comfort and decrease energy use.

Decide whether solar access or access to cooling breezes takes priority.

Is one or the other more important in your climate? Observe the potential for overshadowing, loss of privacy and noise from neighbouring areas. Shadow impact is influenced by latitude, height and spread of trees, and may affect the way the house is sited.

Identify vegetation that can be incorporated into open space, used for wind protection or used as part of the site drainage system and make it a priority to retain native vegetation where possible.

Investigate the geology and topography of the site. Is there a threat of landslide, soil slip or creep? Assess potential natural hazards such as bushfire risk and flooding and identify any natural site drainage patterns and determine how they can be impact flooding.

Bear in mind that steeper sites usually generate more stormwater runoff.

ON THE EDGE OF THE BUSH... Gagliardi Scott Real Estate principal, Rocky Gagliardi at the new Edgewater Place in Kialla. Photo: Steve Hutcheson

Set among the gum trees T

his year is proving to be a difficult year for those who have just started looking for a well-placed building site in the Shepparton region.

With all available land currently taken up, a new development is obviously going to generate a lot of interest and getting in early and registering said interest will pay dividends.

Announcing Edgewater Place, a new

development in Kialla, Rocky Gagliardi of Gagliardi Scott Real Estate said, "I can see these blocks being snapped up as soon as they are released around May to June."

Stage 1 of the development will have 23 blocks that range from 850m2 to 1400m2

at a price range starting from $165,000, giving owners the chance to add a decent 60m3 to 100m3 shed to the building if they choose.

The development plans are for predominantly north facing blocks that have a wide frontage that will take shape over 3 or 4 stages.

Situated on a wedge of land located between the Seven Creeks Estate and Emerald Bank, some of the blocks in Stage 1 will take in bush views.

Interested buyers will be well served registering their interest with the agents at Gagliardi Scott Real Estate at 182 High St, Shepparton or phone on 5831 1800.

Homebuilder Grant drives approvals to record levels C

onstruction in the Goulburn Valley is frantic.

Builders and subcontractors are working eight days a week trying to keep pace with the new work being made available.

According to several sources in the industry, a lot of it is being driven by the Federal Government Homebuilder Grant that is soon to expire, having been extended for an additional

three months from December.

According to the Federal Treasury, an additional $18B in construction work has been supported by the Homebuilder program and kept more than a million workers in a job during the height of the pandemic.

Like all good things, it comes to an end on April 14.

Various industry bodies are now seeking the government

continue the grant to maintain the impetus it has generated.

New home sales rose by 60.5 per cent across the nation in the three months to February compared with the same period last year according to the Housing Industry Association (HIA).

Shepparton has been well impacted across all sectors to the point where available land is in short supply.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 3

Shepparton getting the kudos it deserves T

he pandemic brought about a monumental shift in how we do business and interact with the rest of the world. Online sales increased severalfold and the corporate world grappled with the concept of working from home.

For a new legal firm, Jones & Mitchell Legal transitioned to working from home with relative ease. From their inception, directors, Loretta Mitchell and Matthew Jones, were adamant on having a business model that embraced technology to bring flexibility to their clients. While the pandemic reduced the number of face-to-face meetings, it was this business model that enabled Loretta and Matthew to continue serving the needs of their clients throughout the pandemic, without disruption.

“Having excellent systems has made a world of difference, it has enabled us to be mobile and, for the most part, a paperless office. This has really given our clients choice, 9 to 5 face to face meetings do not suit everyone”, said Matthew.

Coming out of other legal practices in the region, Matthew and Loretta joined forces two years ago and have gone from strength to strength ever since.

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PROPERTY BOOM PROVIDES STEPPING STONE FOR NEW FIRM... Legal assistant, Marcus Scott, director, Matthew Jones and director, Loretta Mitchell. Photo: Steve Hutcheson “The pandemic has caused a real boom in the property market not just for Shepparton, but regional Victoria in general, and I don’t think anyone really saw that coming when the lockdowns started in early 2020”, said Loretta.

For Loretta and Matthew, the property boom in Shepparton comes as no surprise. “Shepparton is finally getting the kudos it deserves, this is a great place to live”, said Loretta and Matthew.

With that said, Loretta and Matthew are mindful that the pandemic has caused a lot of hardship for many, and with recent government assistance packages coming to an end, there will be difficult times ahead.

Jones & Mitchell Legal can assist you with all things property, commercial, business, leasing and Wills and can be contacted on 5821 1930, info@jonesandmitchell.com.au or www.jonesandmitchell.com.au

Gardening is decorating outside C

LEAVE’S Garden Supplies is Shepparton’s largest and longest standing family-owned Garden Supplies centre.

They have more than 100 products in their varied range of ground coverings, soils, mulches, decorative rocks, pavers and sleepers.

Their services include providing for large civil and commercial projects right down to the prized home garden or rental spaces.

Cleave’s offers a seven-day-a-week delivery service, which will take the hassle out of your day -anything from a trailer load to bulk truck and trailer quantities.

Importantly, they are pleased to announce our latest offering which comprises a large range of high quality, hand-made, artisan pots.

These will compliment any landscaping project, from gardens, outdoor alfresco areas, courtyards and indoors as a stunning statement piece.

These high-quality pots are a timeless investment for your home and outdoor living spaces. They can even link your indoors and outdoors areas together seamlessly. All

CLEAVE’S GARDEN SUPPLIES... Shepparton’s largest and longest standing family-owned Garden Supplies centre. Photo: Struan Jones can be purchased individually or as a set of two or three.

Visit their new website www.cleavesgardensupplies .com.au today to purchase online at their artisan pot store

or visit in person to view their large display on offer at Cleave’s Garden Supplies, 20 Wanganui Rd, Shepparton, open seven days. Call them on 5821 2111.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 5

Striking in red M

aking an impressive statement from the streetscape, a beautiful Hotondo home is currently under construction.

Local Hotondo Shepparton builder Colin Mintern says the owners are impressed by the stunning red frame.

“That will soon be covered by a facade and features our client has selected from our huge range of Hotondo Homes floor plans,” Colin said.

“They’ve been able to personalise it and make it their own by adding their own personal touches to make it the home they have always dreamed of.”

Building a home that meets the changing way we live and work is something the team at Hotondo Shepparton prides themselves on.

They believe the journey to their clients’ new home should be an exciting experience.

Like many builders experiencing record growth, the team at Hotondo Shepparton are working around the clock to meet demands.

“We have seen a huge increase in demand for new homes to be built across the region, and that means we now only have a limited number of start dates available in the second half of this year,” said Colin.

Visit the team at their High Street office or call them on 5831 2250 to start the exciting journey to your new Hotondo Home.

THE DREAM TEAM… Hotondo Homes managing director, Colin Mintern and office manager and sales representative, Jody Mintern. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

Adding autumn warmth to your interior

WARM TONES.. .Adding soft furnishings in a rich colour palette can spruce up your interior without blowing your budget. Photo: Supplied

By Stephanie Holliday

A

S temperatures start to drop, getting cozy on the couch is a great way to beat the chill. Beautiful, plush blankets and cushions are imperative to achieving that snuggly feeling and are also a great way to update your interior colour scheme without too much commitment.

Rich colour palettes including burnt orange, brown and burgundy tones can be added to your home through art prints, soft furnishings and bed linen for a way to add warmth without the hassle of repainting.

Light neutrals such as white, cream and grey are timeless and complement most sofa colours, thankfully are easy to source with options available in every price range.

Jewel tones are typically reserved for colder months and adding soft furnishings and linens in deep emerald, turquoise or even mustard tones is a wonderful way to bring colour to a space.

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Pastels may traditionally be reserved for spring but a pale blue, mint or even pink addition to your home adds softness and colour without the starkness of brighter tones. An added bonus is that these lighter shades go well with many neutral color schemes.

A great way to determine while out shopping if an item would go well with what you have at home is to take a paint colour swatch of your walls and if you can find one to match, one of both your flooring and lounge seating, and see how they look against items that catch your eye.

Outdoor living Get in early to be through the entertainment ready colder months

By Stephanie Holliday

O

A

It’s amazing how a new space can transform your lifestyle, but making sure you've got the build booked in before the hot months hit again is the best way to ensure it’s ready to enjoy.

A well-designed patio by Shepparton’s GV Carports and Patios is an affordable way to create a beautiful outdoor living area, and add significant value to your home.

A patio can be built anywhere in your garden, providing a focus for landscaping and garden-style entertaining.

Daryl and Maree Emmett, owners of GV Carports and Patios, stand by their 10-year guarantee on all their products, including carports, patios, pergolas and verandahs. Daryl is a registered builder with more than 35 years’ experience in the industry.

Their Mitchell Street workshop and

Here are some ways to maximise usage of outdoor living spaces when it’s chilly: Making use of outdoor living areas can be achieved with the addition of a pergola, outdoor blinds and a comfortable outdoor sofa and dining setting.

Gathering around the barbecue is just as enjoyable as it is in summer, in fact more so without the added heat of extreme country temperatures. It’s a great chance to experiment with roasts on a Webber, smoking meats and pairing red wines with said meal choices. Mix up your side dishes with roast vegetables, heartier salads than in summer and soup or pasta dishes that you don’t typically crave in warmer months. Designated blankets you keep outdoors only is a great way to keep warm in addition to using outdoor heaters. Thick and durable choices are best and make sure you shake them out to check for spiders before you use them each time.

So make sure you get outdoors this autumn and winter and make use of outdoor living spaces all year round.

UTDOOR entertaining is a classic Australian spring and summertime activity, and a designated outdoor area can make the world of difference to your home.

S temperatures take a nosedive around this time of year, don’t let this stop you from enjoying your outdoor living spaces.

Arguably, being outdoors in the colder months can be even more enjoyable than in summer with less flies and mosquitoes milling around and the ability to just add another jumper or blanket to get comfortable.

ICONIC... GV Carports and Patios owners, Maree and Daryl Emmett, with one of their distinctive red F-Series trucks. GV Carports and Patios also install pergolas and verandahs. Photo: Stephanie Holliday showroom showcases a full-sized display patio with insulated roofing and Colorbond TM iron roofing with Lysaght Firmlok beams. And they are proud to now offer SolarSpan’s Cool or Cosy 3

layered roofing systems, in a variety of stunning finishes.

GV Carports and Patios is located at 70 Mitchell Street, Shepparton, and can be contacted on 5831 2031.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 7

Bring glamour to your bathroom renovation R

enovating a bathroom is probably one of the most difficult rooms in the house to undertake major renovation. It involves several trades and if you let your hair down, can prove to be very expensive, but well worth it.

BATHROOMS and kitchens are where you can spend big to get a great look. Looking at the finished product however, it can be worth spending a little more to get the ultimate glamour look.

Planning is key to doing it well. Bathrooms are complicated spaces. When you do the layout, you should consult a plumber so you can understand how much it’s going to cost if you need to relocate the major features.

If you can work with the existing configuration, you’re going to save a lot of money giving you opportunity for other glamorous fittings.

To get a truly individual and glamorous finish, don’t shy away from custom-made products if they fall within your budget.

You might think it a costly addition, but underfloor heating is a must if you are looking for that glamourous spa feeling.

Nothing beats a nice warm bathroom on a cold day. Under floor heating dries the floor quickly and can be cost effective.

Lighting also plays an important role in providing the bathroom with a glamorous look.

Include feature pieces that will stand out. A great shaped bath gives a bathroom that extra appeal.

Finally, add stone. Not everyone can afford stone, but if

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A FABULOUS BATHROOM... The costs can be high but the outcome is all the more compelling. Photo: Supplied you can put a stone feature somewhere, the flooring or benchtops for instance, it will make a room look great and a place where you want to keep going back to.

The investment that can make you rich

T

HE one thing they are not making any more of, is land and being able to have your own little piece of it is, in the majority of cases, a pathway to long term financial security.

THE baby-boomers reputedly on average have twelve times the wealth of millennials. Young people need to take note if they are to catch up and for most, the way they have done that is through their investment in property.

The arguments against buying property largely relate to the huge city prices while regional prices are well within the capabilities of young buyers.

The average range of bare land prices in the Shepparton region are $150,000 to $250,000 and the average house price is in the region of $315,000 whereas a similar house in a city suburb can be well over a million dollars.

While the gains may not be the same as the city, they are still healthy. Shepparton is in the upper range of locations around the country when it comes to increased value over several years.

Aussie property ownership is one of the reasons behind Australians being ranked as one of the wealthiest people in the world, according to Credit Suisse Global Wealth Databook.

Right now, we are experiencing huge demand on land and property in the region which in turn will push prices higher due to scarcity.

If millennials are to catch up to the boomers, the obvious option is to start small with an affordable property that is well within their limits and move up to a bigger property as their circumstances permit.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 9

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The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 11

Flooring Options

By Stephanie Holliday

Y

OUR floor is such an important aspect of your home's look and feel. It's imperative to choose floors that are right for your lifestyle, budget and tastes that will ideally last a lifetime.

The three main flooring options are floorboards, tiles and carpet. Here are some factors to consider for each: FLOORBOARDS Timber flooring can be installed as solid timber or engineered boards. Engineered boards have the same feel and natural look of real species timber and are the perfect options for those who love timber but need to watch their budget. The best thing about timber floorboards is that the more you live on them, the more awesome they look!

Timber flooring has an appeal that goes way beyond simple aesthetics. It's a look and feel that sets it apart from most flooring options, hence their popularity.

TILES For such an economical choice, tiles are a great long-term investment. Tiles are an incredible solution for people who suffer allergies and asthma. Plus, one of the benefits of tiles is that they’re super easy to keep clean, even with natural products. The daily grind of high heels, enthusiastic dogs, and even wheeling out your laundry are among the difficulties your floor needs to endure. Porcelain tiles are famous for their practicality, they thrive because they are one of the hardest working floors to resist scratches and marks, they are waterproof and don’t absorb smells.

CARPET Carpet is a timeless floor covering delivering many benefits including style and comfort. While hard floors also have their place in many homes, carpet has additional features that hard flooring can’t deliver, such as noise reduction, insulation and comfort underfoot. Carpets come in varying fibres, colours and pile constructions, the right choice both elegance and cosiness to your home’s interior design.

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HELPING CUSTOMERS MAKE THE RIGHT DECISION... Owner of Shepparton Flooring Xtra Steve Cohen, sales consultant Hassan Alkundi and accounts manager Henry Hoornweg. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

Floor to ceiling, they’ve got you covered F

LOORING is such an integral part of your home interior; it can make or break the overall look and feel of your home.

WHETHER you are building a brand-new house or renovating, such an important decision is best aided by industry experts with over 40 years' experience.

Family owned Shepparton Flooring Xtra have a large range of flooring solutions including floating timber floors, vinyl planks, tiles and a large range of carpet and rug options.

The professional team at Shepparton Flooring Xtra can also help with a variety of made-to-order blinds, including roman, sheer, venetian, vertical, roller, as well

as outdoor awnings.

They can even tailor-make flooring and blind packages to suit your budget, ensuring you’re covered from ceiling to floor.

When the time comes to make that important decision about your floor coverings, drop into Shepparton Flooring Xtra at 66 Benalla Road, Shepparton.

For more information on their products, visit flooringxtra.com.au, call 5821 0300 or email shepparton@flooringxtra.com.au.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 13

Things to consider when moving house M

oving house can be one of the most stressful times anyone experiences. Most of us just wish there was someone who could do the job for us.Here are a few tips on making the move a bit smoother.

ALL THE RUBBISH Once you start the packing process, there will be a lot of things that you will decide you don’t need to move to the new place, things that you may have forgotten you had.

Consider what can be donated, recycled or sold on Facebook before you throw it out.

When it comes to household chemicals and problem waste, items such as paint, cleaning products, batteries, garden chemicals, gas bottles and fluorescent

globes, you can’t be thrown in any of your kerbside bins. Contact the Greater Shepparton City Council to see if their recycling centre can be of assistance.

THE PACKING First off, look through some of the online classifieds to see if anyone is trying to get rid of any packaging such as boxes for free. You can often buy quality, used boxes through storage or moving services and return them through a buy-back program when you’re finished using them.

Unless things are going into storage, you

TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF MOVING... Plan early and make the move easier. Photo: Supplied might consider using some of your towels and other line to wrap things in rather than lots of waste paper. Eco-friendly cleaning If you are moving into an existing rather than new home, even if the previous tenants did a good clean, you will most likely want to do a good clean yourself. Use environmentally friendly products where you can.

CARE FOR YOUR RELATIONSHIPS This is not just being nice to your family.

Landlords, housemates and neighbours will inevitably be impacted by your move, so it

helps to give them support as well.

PLAN AHEAD Give yourself plenty of time, you will need it. Start packing as soon as you know a move is on the cards.

Don’t book movers at the last minute, don’t try and pack the night before the big move and relax a bit after you’ve relocated.

My other tip is that good removalists book out very quickly! So, as soon as you know your moving date, book your removalist early.

The 4 x 18.59 ad $$174720855 is missing or incomplete.

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Ways to look after carpet

By Stephanie Holliday

A

FTER selecting the perfect colour and textured carpet, it’s best to ensure you maintain the quality of your investment and keep it in great condition so it lasts for years.

Carpets should also be vacuumed once a week, with higher traffic areas such as the living room twice a week.

If you get to a stain immediately, there’s a better chance that you can remove it. A lot of stains can be removed simply by using tap water and dishwashing liquid if necessary.

Hair dyes, shoe polish, paints, caustic chemicals such as bleach, insecticides, plant food, and iodine are some examples of substances that can stain or discolour your carpet.

A quality upright vacuum cleaner with an adjustable beater bar for different carpet heights is recommended for maintaining your carpet.

Work boots and runners are not friends of carpet as their abrasive soles can cause damage. Office chairs can also be damaging without protection mats.

When small balls of fibre appear on your carpet, simply use a vacuum with a revolving brush head or carefully snip it off with scissors.

Clean the carpet when the colour starts looking dull. If you wait until the carpet is very dirty, cleaning it will be much more difficult, take much longer and cost more.

HOME SWEET HOME AT A KNOW PRICE... The Simonds Homes Sage on display in Kialla. Photo: Steve Hutcheson

Designing out the hidden costs W

HEN the time comes around to build a new house, there are so many variables that need to be taken into consideration in an effort to keep it within our budget.

THE display villages are designed to impress. Walking around them we see features we want to consider yet often, if we were to put them all together, our budgets would be seriously impacted.

That suggests we need a means of taking a base design that is well within budget to work from and then factoring in all of the particular additional features that we might like to include.

Enter Simonds Homes Xpress online portal that enables clients the opportunity to play with all the additional design options that will reach a final price that fits within their budget.

Like with anything, there are still going to be site specific inclusions such as soil type, slope and the like but when it

comes to the home itself, and its design and inclusions, the resultant price can be assured to be final.

Glenn Wilson, Simonds Homes sales consultant said,” Our online portal gives clients the chance to get to a final design and aside from the site-specific and external costs, know that there are no hidden costs in the build.”

Offering 136 design options, Simonds Homes invite people to look over their display home in Seven Creeks Estate, Kialla while taking the time to also look at the exclusive design tool, Xpress by Simonds that is on their website, https://simonds. com.au to get a complete picture of the costs variations and a final price.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 15

Now is the time to check heaters and chimneys W

ITH winter almost upon us many will start to reach for their heaters to ward off cold snaps, firefighters are urging people to be aware of the fire risks inside their homes.

Home heating includes open fires, wood heaters, fixed electrical and gas-powered appliances and portable electrical heaters or those that use gas or kerosene.

It is vital for all Victorians to check their heaters to ensure they are in good working condition.

Ideally, gas heaters should be professionally serviced every two years and wood fire chimneys should be cleaned every year.

On average, there are around 3000 house fires in Victoria each year and most could be prevented by taking simple precautions.

Last year, the Country Fire Authority found that the lounge and bedroom areas were the most common room of fire ignition for incidents resulting in serious injury or death.

Poorly maintained gas heaters could also cause deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.

Another dangerous mistake people make is drying clothes near heaters and fireplaces. Clothes should be kept at least one metre from the heat source.

Every household should consider their fire safety practices and examine the potential risks around their home.

GETTING TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER... Now is the time to get your fireplace ready for winter. Photo: Steve Hutcheson Smoke alarms should be installed in all sleeping and living areas and preferably be interconnected so that if a fire starts in one room that smoke alarm will go off and also sound all other interconnected smoke alarms.

For more information on how to prevent fires in your home, visit the CFA website at https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/planprepare/fires-in-the-home.

Compare and W

save

ITH rapid change becoming the ‘new norm’ in the energy industry, choosing a supplier you trust when it comes to providing essential energy services, like electricity and gas to your home, is paramount.

In a bid to enable consumers to make informed choices and `hold energy retailers to account’, the Victorian Government has introduced, Victorian Energy Compare; an independent, unbiased, online price comparison tool.

The website compare.energy.vic. gov.au is operated by the Victorian Government’s Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning; who claim to deliver the most accurate, current and transparent information on the market.

Free to use, available to all Victorians and designed to make the process of choosing the right supplier for your household, as simple as possible.

Users are required to provide information about their unique household in a short questionnaire, for example; whether or not their residence is strictly reliant on electricity or, if the property has gas or solar provisions to take into account, along with the property’s smart meter number.

Once submitted, the input data is

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then deleted, not kept or ‘harvested’ as it is a risk with many other sites, so users can be assured of their privacy and security.

Once the questionnaire has been submitted, consumers are (almost) instantly presented with a best-fit range of local energy suppliers; along their current offers and the comparative, pre-calculated total savings estimates - specific to their household consumption, allowing them to evaluate the most suitable, affordable and reliable providers in their area. The results show a comprehensive outline of each company’s rates, fees and charges, along with direct links to their website and direct contact information.

But wait, there’s more...!

Once you've taken charge of your bills, you can then explore your eligibility for a one-off payment of $250, now available to Victorians from low-income households, you’ll find all you need to know online when you visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au.

Heat pump hot water system

By Stephanie Holliday

W

hen your water heating system stops working, you’ll need to replace it quickly unless you like cold showers.

When you think of solar hot water, a traditional panel and storage tank come to mind. A great alternative is an energy-efficient heat pump hot water system.

A heat pump uses renewable energy to heat your water, without the need for solar panels. They absorb the heat from the surrounding air and use it to heat your water.

Therefore, these systems are also referred to as ‘air-source heat pumps’.

These systems are more efficient than conventional water heaters despite operating using electricity. They can save money and energy while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

TURN UP THE HEAT... Heat pump hot water systems are a great energy-efficient way to get hot water. Photo: Supplied A heat pump system works much like a refrigerator in reverse - by transferring the heat outside the unit to the water inside the heater. It does this using a heat exchange system.

Outside air is pulled into the heat pump with a fan into the evaporator which contains a special refrigerant stored in the piping.

THE BENEFITS OF THIS TYPE OF SYSTEM INCLUDE: • Saves money in the long term Energy-efficient • Environmentally friendly

• Fewer greenhouse gas emissions than a conventional water heating system • Effective in lower temperatures • No need for solar panels, inverters, and batteries. Easy to install and connect to your hot water plumbing • Heat pump hot water systems can save money on your energy bill as well as maintenance, so ensure you maintain your system regularly. You can also try some energy-saving strategies to further lower your water heating costs.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 17

Our company pays special attention to the details of every job to ensure the complete satisfaction of each client,” Cameron Ingram

FAMILY BUSINESS...

Garden experts Andrew and Cameron Ingram offer personalised garden and landscaping services. Photo: Struan Jones

Get your garden Looking Great T

o create or maintain a landscaped garden that looks great, you need a lot of time, the right tools, and great attention to detail. Or, you can call in the local professionals who will treat your garden with the same passion you have, and get the job done right.

HERE in Greater Shepparton, Looking Great Garden and Landscaping Services is a professional and experienced team with years of experience in residential and commercial

gardening.

This local and family-owned business takes a personable and flexible approach. Brothers Cameron and Andrew Ingram take the time to listen to you to understand exactly what you are trying to achieve in your garden.

They offer a full range of gardening services, including: Garden and yard maintenance, Property clean-ups, Landscaping garden designs and makeovers, Lawn services, Tree and shrub removal

“Our company pays special attention to the details of every job to ensure the complete satisfaction of each client,” Cameron Ingram said.

“Our goal is to enhance the exterior of your home, raise your property value, and beautify your whole neighbourhood.”

To contact Looking Great Garden and Landscaping Services and enquire about a free quote, check out their website at lookinggreatlandscapes.com, call 0467 799 138 or email admin@lookinggreatlandscapes.com.

Stamp duty discounts lend to regional boom

By Stephanie Holliday

N

O doubt lending itself to the regional property boom, the Government's ‘Homes for Victorians package’ has seen thousands of first home buyers spared stamp duty costs over the past financial year.

RECENTLY, a new milestone for first home buyer stamp duty discounts in Victoria was reached, with more than 100,000 first home buyers receiving the package since the scheme was introduced.

So far, 45,858 Victorians have benefitted from the Government’s First Home Owner Grant program to the value of over $50M.

In general, approximately 28 per cent of all recipients of the first homebuyer concessions and exemptions have been in regional Victoria, accounting for nearly 20 percent of the total savings provided, despite the lack of available land here in the Greater Shepparton region.

“With the First Home Owners Grants and discounted stamp duty still available till mid-year contracts that meet the dealine, the interest in the region has not tapered off, and for those that are eligible, the biggest struggle is the availability of titled land,” Hotondo Homes Shepparton office manager and sales representative, Jody

Mintern, said.

“I have spoken to a number of people that had given up on trying to buy established homes due to the high demand in the region, coming from people looking for a tree change and are wanting to build instead but are then meet with the lack of land issue also.”

The stamp duty waiver of up to 50 percent on residential property purchases applies to those with a value up to one million dollars and for contracts entered into up until July 1 2021.

BUILDING BOOM CONTINUES… Hotondo Shepparton office manager and sales representative, Jody Mintern. Photo: Stephanie Holliday

Top 3 indoor plants

BY STEPHANIE HOLLIDAY

I

NDOOR plants are such a wonderful way to freshen up your home's interior and add colour to your home. Keeping them alive though can be a challenge for even the best of us so here are three picks that look great and add greenery to your space along with some gardening hints: MONSTERA ADANSONII OR "SWISS CHEESE PLANT" One of the most on-trend plants at the moment, the Monstera adansonii is known for its lush green leaves with distinctive holes. Monstera plants prefer a warm climate away from direct sunlight and they benefit from regular cleaning with a soft, damp cloth. Allowing the top 4cm of soil to dry out between watering is best as over watering may lead to root rot, signified by yellowing or

Page 18 – The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021

wilting leaves. Monsteras should enjoy conditions that are fairly moist so avoid artificial heating and cooling, and they require monthly feeding in spring and summer when planted in containers. Utilising a stake or trellis for support is recommended as in their natural habitat they are a climbing plant.

ZANZIBAR GEM Even the best of us have struggled to keep a plant alive, that's why this 'almost indestructible' and drought resistant plant is a top pick. Native to Africa, it has deep, green glossy leaves and is able to survive a long period without water. To care for your Zanzibar Gem, don't over-water it or sit it in water. It thrives on neglect (perfect!) and prefers you don't water it too often, once a month is enough. It's best placed in a bright to light shaded area, however it will

tolerate a shady spot, but will just take longer to grow. Keep it out of direct sunlight as the plant can burn. You can add a slow-release fertiliser in spring and re-pot if you notice the root starting to bulge.

MAIDENHAIR FERN If you're prepared to give a Maidenhair Fern the TLC it requires, it can make a beautiful addition to your home.

They have feathery, light green leaves with soft shiny stems and they make a great hanging plant. Maidenhair Ferns can be a little finicky, they require not too much light, but not too little, growing well in a warm spot with a bit of humidity.

Placing a saucer filled with pebbles beneath the potted plant is best, fill the saucer with water to just below the top of the pebbles and as the water evaporates, it creates a humid microclimate around the plant.

Top Tips to reduce your energy usage D

id you know...? Every degree above 20C can add a further 10 percent to your heating bill, so if you set your home heating thermostat to between 18 and 20 degrees, it will greatly assist to maintain regularity of your energy billing and consumption.

Read on for more cost-saving suggestions, to clue you up before the big chill sets in.

First understand, then work to improve your home's energy use, assess your current supplier offer and compare the market.

Switch to energy-saving LED light globes and turn off lights and electrical appliances when not in use.

Turning off appliances and devices, such as laptops, tablets and computer equipment, at the power point when you’re not using them, instead of leaving them on standby can save even more energy.

Consider how you wash and dry clothes, can you reduce the energy you use by tweaking your routine this winter?

Install solar and permanently reduce your household energy usage. Contain the heat!

Close the curtains before the night chill sets in, and shut doors to areas you're not using, and only heat the rooms where you spend the most time.

Wait until your washing machine and dishwasher are full before running them. Use even less energy by choosing the shortest possible washing cycles on your appliances.

Insulate your roof.

Switch to more energy efficient heating.

Switching from an electric fan heater to a split system can save the average home nearly $700 a year on their energy bills.

A number of rebates are currently available, to install more efficient heating in your home through the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.

GROOVY BABY...The 70’s are back with a bang, rattan furniture is taking centre stage. Photo: Supplied

Breathing new life into old favourites

By Stephanie Holliday

M

OVING into a fresh, newly built home or painstakingly renovated property can highlight to us that pieces of furniture previously suited our décor now may look outdated and out of place.

THERE’S no need to blow your budget, as after a house build, the costs of gardens, driveways, blinds and pools can leave not much wriggle room for an entirely new set of furniture.

Here are some ideas for low-cost alternatives to purchasing brand new: Instead of using your time and energy to sell old pieces, with a simple coat of paint you will be able to transform your time-loved pieces into refreshed, stylish and one-of-a-kind items. Dark brown, wooden furniture has featured

prominently in many homes in recent decades but there has been a strong shift in recent years towards lighter colours and matte finishes. Matte paint is commonly referred to as ‘chalk’ paint.

Scour the many op shops and antique stores across the Greater Shepparton region. Living in a rural area means there are many hidden gems to be found, quaint farmhouse items that just need a lick of paint or a sand and re-stain are in abundance.

Many old chairs still have a wooden

3 display homes

Lorikeet Street, Seven Creeks: Sandford 343 Hamptons; Olinda 263 Verve; Heathcote 313 Savannah

1

Phone: 5823 7180 Open: 7 Days 11am-5pm

Our display homes are open by appointment only.

frame that is still going strong. All you need is to reupholster such items, either DIY or by the way of using a professional, and you have a good as new set of dining chairs or an accent chair to tide you over.

The 70’s are back and rattan furniture is a big trend at the moment. While rattan furniture is readily available in stores brand new, lots of rattan furniture pops up secondhand, and items can in some cases be re-woven if they develop rips or holes.

your local

display home directory

New Display Home Now Open 48 Cormorant boulevard, Kialla

Lorikeet St

Apostle St

Cookatoo Cres

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Cormorant Blvd Osprey St

Shop 4, 228-232 High Street, Shepparton Phone: 5831 2250

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Our display homes are open by appointment only.

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Our display homes are open by appointment only.

The Adviser, House & Land – April, 2021 – Page 19