House and Land March 2018

2018 Adviser Autumn Edition 24 pages of Homes, Design Ideas, Land Releases and Lifestyle Opportunities

Housing boom building the region

From The Boulevard, Parkside Gardens, Northside, Golf Rise Estate and Connolly Park to Rosemont Park, Freedom Place, Windsor Park, Kialla Green, Seven Creeks, Marlboro Park, Grammar Park Gardens, The Grange, The Vines, Sanctuary Park, Kialla Lakes Estate, Archer’s Field and Westwood Run, the Shepparton/Mooroopna region has an abundance of choice when it comes to estates to build in, and perhaps this is why the city is experiencing such a building boom. Continued on page 3

BUILDING A DREAM‌ Local residents, Hayley and Mathew Newton-King had their new home built in Golf Rise Estate that was finished in February. Photo: David Lee.

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New suburb in Shepparton to become home to 4,000 residents EXPANDING SHEPPARTON… A new suburb in Shepparton’s north east is being planned that is expected to become home to over 4,000 residents. Image: Supplied.

FORD ROAD GRAHAMVALE ROAD

Ford Road to the north, Grahamvale Road to the east and a Goulburn-Murray Water drainage reserve to the south, and is one of five proposed major growth corridors in the Shepparton-Mooroopna urban area.

The precinct has been designed to weave into the area’s existing landscape features and topography, embracing Shepparton’s regional city character.

With streets providing access to major existing roads and shared bicycle and pedestrian paths linking to schools, community facilities and open space, the suburb will be well-connected and easy to navigate.

There are two existing schools within the area, the Grahamvale Primary School and Shepparton Christian College, with the plan also setting aside land to allow for their expansion.

Developers of the precinct will contribute over $39M in development levies to help pay for infrastructure and facilities within

VERNEY ROAD

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t is no secret that Shepparton has been experiencing a housing boom over the past 19 months, with 485 new dwellings having been built and a number of new estates quickly taking shape.

But to accommodate for further future growth, a proposal has been put forward by the Victorian Planning Authority (VPA) and Greater Shepparton City Council to see the creation of a new suburb in the north east of Shepparton, that is hoped will be developed over the next 30 years.

The draft Shepparton North East Precinct Structure Plan outlines a vision for a suburb with 1,500 new homes that will accommodate a population of more than 4,000, and will include a local convenience centre and community facility, five local parks, as well as drainage and transport networks.

The draft plan applies to 177 hectares of land bound by Verney Road to the west,

the new community.

The plan has now been released for public comment, with the closing date for submissions to be received by the Victorian Planning Authority is Friday, April 13.

Housing boom building the region continued from front page From July 1, 2017 until February 2018, 227 new dwellings were built across the region coming to an estimated total cost of $66,087,877. In February alone there were 37 new dwellings coming to a total estimated cost of $11,189,845, that’s 11 more new dwellings when compared to the same period in 2017, which came to a total estimated cost of $8,022,539.

Local residents, Hayley and Mathew Newton-King had their new home built in Golf

Rise Estate that was finished in February.

“This was the second time we have gone through the building process. The first was in Mooroopna.

“We chose this location because it was closer to work and closer to school for our kids. It’s quiet and has a lot of perks such as being close to the river and the golf course.

“The experience of building in Shepparton was great. We had a rough start because we began the build with Wintersun Homes, but once we managed to get a new builder, the build time was quite reasonable.”

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 3

Choose your outlook F

inding the best place to build your future home is incredibly important. Everything has to be taken into consideration. The block size, proximity to quality schools, location to services and amenities, and of course, the outlook.

Gagliardi Scott Real Estate director, Rocky Gagliardi said, “The Vines is a beautiful estate and presents a limited opportunity to purchase land in highly sought after North Shepparton area, located only a short walk to the Shepparton Sports Precinct and IGA Supermarket and a short drive to the Goulburn Valley Grammar School and GV Health.”

The Vines offers generous block sizes, energy efficiently orientated with all the benefits of easy access to Northern and central Shepparton.

The Vines is the complete lifestyle package ultimately benefiting from the a future linear open space reserve with

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GROUND IS BREAKING… Gagliardi Scott Real Estate director, Rocky Gagliardi is excited to see The Vines estate take shape. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

future play space and shared path connections linking the estate into the Shepparton shared path network.

Take a look at this unique development but be quick as these blocks won’t last.

For further information or to express interest in the property, contact Gagliardi Scott Real Estate on 5831 1800 or drop into 182 High Street, Shepparton.

Building Department

Summary of Building Permits issued from February 2017 to February 2018 within the Greater Shepparton City Council

UNIQUE KID’S DESIGNS… Wyndham Décor sales consultant Josie Michielin and business owner Sue Johnson are using their expertise to personalise your home. Photo: Nicholise Garner.

Dreaming of being a ballerina?

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HEN it comes to children’s bedroom designs, it’s great to be able to personalise their bedroom as much as possible but that can be very difficult when you’re decorating a space for more than one child with more than one taste.

Wyndham Décor business owner, Sue Johnson has found some beautiful and unique doona covers that will make bedtime a pleasure for little people and that will capture your child’s imagination.

Sue said, “We just adore these beautiful new doona covers, there are plenty of designs available to choose from and the kids just love them. Whether they are ‘want to be’ equestrians, astronauts or ballerinas, children will love crawling under their covers and immersing

themselves in their favourite character. We also have some gorgeous children’s blinds available that we can personalise for your children.”

Wyndham Décor specialise in curtains, blinds and all things décor so talk to the ladies at Wyndham Décor about how you can personlise your child’s bedroom.

Phone Wyndham Décor on 5823 5694 or visit the store at 7988 Goulburn Valley Highway, Kialla.

Spend a minimum of $10 and fill out an entry form for your chance to win a share of $25,000 or a $5,000 holiday voucher. Wyndham Décor is a participating business in the 2018 GMCU $30,000 Giveaway.

227

New Dwellings Building Permits issued

$66,087,877 estimated cost

423

Dwelling Additions/Outbuildings/Swimming Pools/Restumps/Demolitions Permits issued

$11,589,854 estimated cost

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 5

Client based research makes choosing easy

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OMMUNICATION is key when it comes to building a new home. It is essential that homeowners are able to have their needs met; within a suitable budget, in a decent time frame and with as little stress as possible. Sound unattainable? Not necessarily. Simonds Homes sales consultant, Glenn Wilson talked about Simonds’ latest and most innovative approach to making design selection easy for clients.

Glenn said, “Our researchers have sat down with clients who have already built as well as people who are going to build and together we’ve developed ‘Fusion Range of Designs,’ which is essentially a compilation of changes and additions that people have brought to their home designs to meet their individual needs.

“Our Fusion Designs ensures clarity for our clients, simplifying complex decisions and allowing them to see their options. I like to refer to Fusion Designs as being ‘life tested’ because they’ve come directly from customer feedback.”

The team at Simonds Homes will take you through a process where together you come up with the design to suit your family’s needs at the click of a button. They will

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CUSTOMISE YOUR HOME… This is an example of one of the beautiful Simonds Homes designs that you could make your own. Simonds Homes sales consultant, Glenn Wilson. Photo Supplied.

make the whole process very easy and will ask you the questions you haven’t even thought of yet.

Visit the Simonds Homes display at 98 Sanctuary Drive,

Kialla and talk to the team about your home design needs.

Phone Glenn Wilson on 0400 674 481.

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 7

Excellent home loan rates locally I

F you’re looking to refinance or are on the market for a new home, GMCU has introduced a limited offer on home loans. With no application fee, homebuyers can choose between a one percent discount for the first year or .80 percent discount for the first two years.

GMCU loans manager, Rob Chaston, and Shepparton branch manager, Dallas Moore are encouraging homebuyers to take advantage and to see what GMCU can do for you.

Rob said “We are getting strong enquiries for the special home loan deal, and have set aside funding to meet the high level of demand. We believe this price is strong in the market and represents a great deal for borrowers.”

Dallas said, “Our customers really appreciate the personal service they receive at GMCU. Our loan approvals are quick and the lender who does the first interview will be involved right through to settlement. No call centres, no capital city bureaus, no remote units… just a local face to help along the way. We are community owned, so our

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HELPING TO SECURE YOUR FUTURE… GMCU loans manager, Rob Chaston and Shepparton branch manager, Dallas Moore invite you to talk to them about the best home loan rates available. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

focus is always on helping locals and making banking simple.”

GMCU has branches throughout central Victoria, each with experienced lenders who can help home buyers

with their choices, including branches in Shepparton, Mooroopna, Kyabram, Benalla, Echuca, Numurkah, Euroa, Seymour and Kilmore. GMCU can be contacted in Shepparton on 5821 9033 or at www.gmcu.com.au

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 9

Great things are happening in the Goulburn Valley

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VERYWHERE you look in Shepparton you’ll see building and progress taking place. There has been significant growth in the housing market with some wonderful housing estates promising excellent lifestyle opportunities.

Kevin Hicks Real Estate business owner, Kevin Hicks said, “The market is clearly on the improve in all aspects of real estate, and we believe the long term growth will be exceptional. At Kevin Hicks Real Estate, we pride ourselves on our prompt and efficient service provided from the very first enquiry through to the completed purchase.

“Our experienced agents will meet with land buyers either at our office or on site at their chosen estate to fully explain all aspects of the buying process as well as outline the features, protective covenants and benefits of the estate.

“We are currently fortunate to be selling agents for

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SELLING PREMIER ESTATES… Kevin Hicks Real Estate estate manager, Terry Shiels and real estate consultant, Julie Ryan. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

three of the finest estates in the district including the longestablished Kialla Lakes Estate in south Shepparton, the new and exciting Grammar Park Gardens in the north and the very well planned and appealing Northlinks Estate in Tatura.”

For all your land enquiries, please contact any of our agents to arrange a convenient time to meet and go over all the details.

Visit Kevin Hicks Real Estate 228-232 Wyndham Street, Shepparton or phone 5821 8388 for more information.

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Passing on the reins G

REAT friendship and trust has worked well for GV Carports and Patios business owner, Kevin Sidebottom who is passing the business to Daryl Emmett at the end of this financial year.

Kevin said, “I’m looking forward to enjoying some time out after 21 years in the business. I’m also thrilled to be able to work alongside Daryl. He and I have been friends for at least 10 years now and I’m just so pleased to know that my clients are in safe hands.”

Daryl said, “I’m really excited to be taking on my own business, I’ve had 35 years in the building industry and am enjoying the gradual handover. I’m really excited about the future of GV Carports and Patios.”

GV Carports and Patios provide versatility of building products, improve outdoor lifestyle and add value to your home and property with the least amount of effort.

Kevin said, “We pride ourselves on supporting local businesses and stand by our 10 year guarantee on all workmanship.”

Visit GV Carports and Patios at 70 Mitchel Street, Shepparton, or phone 5831 2031 for your free quote.

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WORKING TOGETHER FOR GREAT OUTCOMES… From left, GV Carports and Patios business owner, Kevin Sidebottom is passing on the business to new business owner, Daryl Emmett. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 15

Transforming your home cost effectively GIVE YOUR HOME A NEW LOOK… Complete some DIY jobs around the home so that your home reflects the latest trends. Photo: Supplied.

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N increasing number of Australians are being inspired by home renovation television shows to renovate their own home to reflect the trends that most reflect their lifestyle and individualism.

Off the back of renovation ratings successes such as The Block, House Rules and others, Australians are sprucing up their homes with fresh new on-trend designs, including Scandinavian Contemporary and Urban Industrial, to make their homes stand-out.

A recent Housing Industry Australia outlook report showed the amount of renovation work nationally will have increased by 1.6 percent this year, with a 2 percent increase the following year and a further 2.7 percent growth in 2018/19 to bring the total value of the renovations market to $34.65B. According to other analysts, the fast-paced property market will slow-down, resulting in greater levels of home renovations.

To keep the costs of renovation contained, and encouraged by seeing contestants doing the hard yards, there has been an increase in homeowners doing some of the renovation for themselves.

DO YOUR RESEARCH, TALK TO THE EXPERTS The most important thing to do when DIY tiling is to get expert advice from those in the know. There are many DIY jobs that you can do with the right know how, but the specifics of a job and the materials to use are best discussed with the experts first.

MEASURE AND ENSURE YOU MAKE ROOM FOR WASTAGE It’s important to know exactly how much of a product you require for your DIY project and order them in one go. For example, if you are retiling a room, make sure you measure the room first. In fact, with tiling it’s also recommended that you purchase 10 percent extra in terms of square meterage of your tiles. This allows for breakage, and filling in smaller contoured areas, as well as having extras on hand if one cracks down the track and the tile range is no longer available.

THINK BIG, START SMALL The great news for DIY renovators is that with the resources available thanks to the internet it’s easy to learn the basics of tiling, but try to tackle a more manageable area before you take on larger projects.

Areas like kitchen splashbacks are a great place to start for first time DIYers.

Smaller spaces are easier to take on and usually don’t require holes and large cuts around fittings like taps, except for the odd power point fitting.

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HELPING TO SOURCE FINANCE… From left, Commrural Lending Services directors, Gary Eckel and Bob Bishop. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Making finance options easy T

HERE are currently 1500 Home Loan products available in Australia It’s not surprising that finding the right finance product to suit your needs can be daunting. An interesting fact is that the Finance Broking Industry writes more home loans than the lenders themselves.

With many years in the finance industry in both banking, asset finance and private mortgage lending, the directors Gary Eckel and Bob Bishop of Commrural Lending Services can source an appropriate finance product that suits you. They have assisted many people over the years, they understand your needs and requirements and will guide you through the process with patience and experience.

Gary said, “We are Licensed Finance Brokers and members of the Mortgage Finance Association of Australia (MFAA), which ensures that we must be ethical and must maintain high standards of honesty and integrity in our business.”

Commrural Lending Services have access to a large number of loan types including Residential, Commercial and Farm loan products, they also arrange financing for plant and equipment and motor vehicles and range of options available for business requiring cash flow.

Bob said, “We hold accreditations with all the major banks and many smaller boutique lenders, some of which are only available through Finance Brokers. This provides our clients with greater choice and a greater range of lending options.”

Should you wish to discuss a possible loan scenario you can do so knowing that you will not be charged a fee. If after the discussion a loan is written, the financier will pay Commrural Lending Services a commission, not you the client. You can discuss your finance options, knowing that you will get an honest appraisal at no cost to you.

Find Commrural Lending Services at 80-82 Wyndham Street, Shepparton or call 1300 559 974 or you can ring Gary Eckel on 0400 377 447 or Bob Bishop on 0400 377 450.

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 17

Where should your budget go?

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HEN deciding to build a new home, the options become endless for new home buyers who often get swept up in the long, and sometimes daunting, building process. From selecting their home design, to fittings, colours and fixtures, it becomes difficult to determine where the best place to allocate your budget is and what items are worth upgrading.

The main areas to considering where to allocate your budget are:

STRUCTURAL Upgrade items that are part of the actual foundation of the home such as ceiling heights, door heights or larger windows. These items are impossible, or extremely difficult, to upgrade once your house has been completed and can make a world of difference to a home. You should also consider the materials you want to use such as bricks, render or lightweight cladding, as it can become very costly to update further down the track.

FITTINGS AND FIXTURES Initially spending a little more on certain fittings and fixtures can save you a lot of hassle and grief further down the track. Items such as flooring, tiling and heating and cooling can be challenging and costly to update, which is why its best to get it right the first time.

THE HEART OF THE HOME The kitchen is by far the most used room in a home and should be carefully considered when allocating your budget. If you’re opting for items such as 900mm appliances, remember this will have implications on the space remaining for your cupboards and benchtops, if you want to go large, do it early. Investing in thick stone benchtops is also worth considering early on as you can run into unexpected issues when updating benchtops later on.

KEEPING YOU SAFE AND SECURE… Standby Security managing director, Angelo Kakouros can help to provide full protection for your home and business with a single comprehensive security system. Photo: Supplied.

Standby your family and business

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HROUGH the use of the latest technology, we protect what most matters to you!

Offering only the best safety solutions; when it comes to their state of the art alarm and video, 24 hour grade A1 monitoring service, Standby Security will help you protect your family and business 24 hours.

Standby Security managing director, Angelo Kakouros said, “At Standby Security we offer superior camera verification alarm systems and advise you don’t gamble with your current security. With three decades of experience Standby Security offers the most comprehensive end-to-end security service available from risk assessment through to 24/7 monitoring.

Industries include retail, warehousing, office, commercial, rural and manufacturing which benefit from our tailored security solutions to reduce the risk of burglary or damage.”

Standby Security offers affordable sophisticated alarm systems and IP camera surveillance from as little as $899.

Angelo said, “Our expert licenced team will provide you with a comprehensive security audit that includes a no obligation, free quotation.”

Seven days a week, phone 1800 809 579 or visit www.standbysecurity.com.au for rapid response.

Contact the friendly staff today to discover how easy it is to secure your property or switch to affordable superior technology and service.

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Four things to know when building

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UILDING your new home is an exciting and at times overwhelming experience, but for your builder it is very routine, which is why you need to be an active participant in all aspects of the home building process to ensure you end up with ‘your’ dream home.

Here are some things you must know and take into consideration when building your new home.

1. KNOW YOUR NUMBERS Before you start building your new home, run some numbers to determine whether you can afford to build the home you want. Most house plans offer a cost to build tool (usually for a nominal fee) to give you an accurate estimate of construction costs based on where you’re building.

2. CHECK THE REPUTATION OF YOUR BUILDER Many builders are out there, but not all are created equal. Do a little research to find out which builders have the best reputation. Whether you search for information online or get recommendations from your family and friends, find out whether a builder is respected for doing quality work as well as being punctual.

‘ON THE PARK’ IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION… Youngs and Co director Glenn Young talks about the generous lots and beautiful parklands of Archer’s Field – On the Park. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Archer’s Field

3. BUILD WITH RESALE IN MIND No matter how much you love the house that you are building, it’s unlikely that it will be the last home you will ever own. Knowing that, you should be mindful of its potential resale value.

4. THINK GREEN Make sure you do your research to maximise energy-efficiency in the design of your new home. Your architect and builder can help ensure that your new home is as ‘green’ as possible.

‘On the Park’ M

OOROOPNA is fast growing and developing but there are still opportunities to buy in at a reasonable price and secure your family home surrounded by parkland views in this wonderful estate.

Youngs and Co director Glenn Young said, “Stage six of Archer’s Field Estate is now referred to Archer’s Field ‘On the Park’ with so many generous lots surrounding almost 2 acres of parkland. There is also an established playground and great flexibility in relation to developer incentives and first home buyer government grants.

“Generous and affordable allotments have made Archer’s Field Estate a popular destination for many families. Archer’s Field Estate is situated next to Craigmuir Lakes (north side of Mooroopna) and has access via Kalimna Drive and McIsaac Road.

“Get your foot in the door of this quality estate and secure a prime positioned allotment in Mooroopna’s growing community.”

To enquire about house and land packages, phone Glenn Young at Youngs and Co on 0438 579 993

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 19

Big win for Victorian renters T

HELPING TO GET THE JOB DONE… Total Tools business owners, Ray and Haxhije Cox, supplying quality tools throughout the Goulburn Valley. Photo: Alicia Niglia.

Tools and equipment for everyone

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HATEVER your trade or speciality, having the right tools for the job helps to ensure a professional presentation, positive outcomes and saves time and money when jobs are done right from the start. Getting the best advice and support is also very important.

Total Tools Shepparton franchisee, Ray Cox has been in the industry for over 20 years and understands the importance of being able to offer customers the best equipment and advice. Ray said, “In-store we have staff from a variety of backgrounds including the building industry and offer the best advice for tradies or for DIY’ers alike.”

Total Tools Shepparton stocks a vast range of tools and equipment for all levels of use. From Makita and

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Milwaukee to Festool and many other well-known brands, they have the right tools and equipment to suit anyone.

Ray said, “Most people are aware we stock high end tools such as Ramset professional fixing and fastening systems, but we also have a huge range of tools and equipment for plastering, brick work, welding and framing professions. No matter what your level of expertise, take a look at what we have in store to meet your needs.”

Visit Total Tools Shepparton, 87 Benalla Road, Shepparton or phone 5821 6400.

Spend a minimum of $10 and fill out an entry form for your chance to win a share of $25,000 or a $5,000 holiday voucher. Total Tools is a participating business in the 2018 GMCU $30,000 Giveaway.

HE Victorian Government has delivered a big win for renters, putting fairness back at the centre of the state’s tenancy laws, according to the Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS).

VCOSS CEO, Emma King said, “Renters have been getting a raw deal in Victoria, with dodgy landlords getting away with too much, for too long.

“That ends now.”

The Government has announced a comprehensive suite of reforms, including plans to abolish unfair ‘no reason’ evictions, make it easier to tenants to make minor upgrades and keep pets, cap rent increases at once per year, ban rental bidding and establish a Tenants’ Commissioner to champion renters’ rights.

“Victorians are renting for longer than at any time in history, making strong protections for tenants more important than ever,” Ms King said.

“These changes will help level the playing field.

“All renters will benefit, but especially those on low-incomes or facing disadvantage who currently lack the power, time or resources to enforce their rights,” Ms King said.

We understand the government is also currently finalising its response to the need for minimum standards for rental properties in Victoria.

“Minimum rental standards are a key piece of unfinished businesses,” Ms King said.

“We need to stop dodgy landlords from renting homes in a state of gross disrepair.

“Just as cars require a ‘roadworthy’ before they can be driven, homes should be required to meet a set of minimum standards and declared ‘homeworthy’ before they can be rented.

“VCOSS looks forward to working with the Government to ensure all Victorians have a safe, secure and affordable home,” Ms King said.

Autumn is the perfect time to get out in your garden A

UTUMN is a good time to get into the garden.

Your soil will still contain a fair bit of warmth from summer before the winter rain hits, so it’s a great time to get planting. And you’ll also enjoy doing some DIY without the summer heat.

MULCH FOR YOUR GARDEN Mulch is your garden’s best friend. It helps the soil hold in moisture so you don’t have to water it as often and it also keeps down weeds. Over time, mulch will break down into your soil and improve it by adding nutrients. There are a few different types of mulch, including organic and inorganic varieties.

IDEAL GARDEN WEATHER… Autumn is the ideal time to get out in your garden and get some jobs done, such as pruning your trees. Photo: Supplied.

FERTILISE YOUR LAWN Fertilising your lawn will ensure that it stays green and healthy throughout the year. Autumn is a great time to fertilise because it protects your lawn through the winter months. You should aim to fertilise twice a year for the best results.

colours, sizes and types of bulbs that you can choose from. Autumn is the perfect time of year to plant them as they’ll have enough time to grow before they are ready to flourish in spring. Bulbs are really easy to grow although make sure that you choose a spot with plenty of sunlight.

PRUNE TREES

BUILD A GARDEN BED

There are many reasons why you should prune your trees. It helps improve the health and appearance of your trees, removes dead or dying branches and it can even promote crop growth in fruit trees.

A garden bed can be a great feature to have in your garden. It’s the perfect place to grow vegies or act as a focal point in your backyard. For the best results, use a good quality top soil so your plants get enough of the good nutrients they need to start growing. Also make sure before you build your garden bed to consider the location because the levels of sun and shade will determine which type of plants will grow.

PLANT BULBS Planting bulbs is a great way to add a splash of colour to your garden. You’d be surprised how many different

PLANT FRUIT TREES Australia’s climate and conditions are ideal for growing fruit trees. All they need is full sun, good drainage, room to grow and they’ll be thriving in no time. A good tip is to avoid overcrowding your trees with other plants or structures like fences as this will curb their growth.

MAKE YOUR OWN COMPOST Compost is a natural fertiliser that is great for your garden. It can help you save money and it’s good for the environment. Autumn is a great time to start making compost because many trees are dropping their leaves, which you’ll need to use. Make sure you get the balance right between garden waste and kitchen scraps in the compost mix for the best results.

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 21

Great personal service and professional advice

By Nicholise Garner S far as I’m concerned, of the most important aspects of any business is the service and care that’s offered. To feel your needs have been met, you’ve been listened to and understood, that all works to make your purchasing experience a good one. That was my own experience at Choices Flooring when Annette and the team there helped me to choose and then installed my beautiful floors a few years ago.

Choices Flooring Shepparton is a leader in carpet, vinyl, laminate, rugs, tiles and Luxaflex window fashions. Owned and operated by Bob and Annette Ellis the store is located in the heart of Shepparton and services all neighbouring towns.

Always such a friendly and easy going lady, Annette said, “We love working with people to get the best designs to suit their style. Choices have just released a fantastic magazine “Inspiring Choices” which is available free in store or can be ordered online. The magazine offers some inspiration and design possibilities for people.”

Customers can also have new home or renovation colour consultations in store receiving free advice and solutions for

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GATHER SOME INSPIRATION… From left, Choices Flooring Shepparton, business owner, Annette Ellis, sales, Leanne Bailey, Ray Emanuelli and sales administration, Shelly Shannon invite you in to pick up a copy of ‘Inspiring Choices.’

Photo: Alicia Niglia.

their home. Choices Flooring Shepparton stock commercial flooring and provide commercial flooring contractors for installation.

Choosing your site 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.’

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 To guide your choice of site, answer the following questions: 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

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transport (rail, ferry, tram and bus) or within walking or cycling distance of common destinations?

What type of home do you need? Apartments, villas 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)? 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 the local 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

Visit Choices Flooring 186 High Street Shepparton or phone 5822 2777 to talk to them about your needs.

access to cooling breezes takes priority. Is one or the other more important in your climate? Consider the likely impacts of a changing climate (see Adapting to climate change).

Note the size, orientation and slope of the site. Ensure that the opportunities for solar access are appropriate to the climate (see Orientation; Passive solar heating; Passive cooling).

Assess the microclimate (e.g. seasonal temperatures, humidity levels, prevailing winds). Observe how the site terrain and vegetation modify air movement and solar access.

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. Make it a priority to retain native vegetation where possible (see Landscaping and garden design).

Identify rare or endangered plant and animal species associated with the site. Your local field naturalist society will be able to help.

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.

Identify any natural site drainage patterns and determine how they can be maintained. Steeper sites usually generate more stormwater runoff.

Nine autumn outdoor DIY projects

A

UTUMN is a great time to get outside and get some DIY projects done. Here are a few things you can do before the winter months hit.

For information and details on all of these projects and more, visit www.bunnings.com. au/diy-advice/outdoor/outdoor-living/nineautumn-outdoor-diy-projects

LAY SOME STEPPING STONES Creating a path in your garden with stepping stones not only looks great but will help you look after your lawn by keeping everyone off it. Stepping stones are easy to lay yourself and it’s a good idea to do this project before winter arrives and your lawn gets too wet to walk on.

CLEAN OUT YOUR GUTTERS With winter and the rain approaching, it’s important to clean out your gutters. Gutters direct water away from your home and if you don’t clear debris out of them they could clog, which leads to rusting or water pouring over the sides of the gutter and onto your house.

It’s also important to clean gutters because built-up leaf matter can pose a big fire risk.

BRIGHTEN UP YOUR DECK Installing deck lights outside is a great way to create a nice ambience in your outdoor entertaining area. It will also improve your deck’s safety if you have steps. It’s a simple project to do and one that you may not need an electrician for, depending on the type of lights you install.

BUILD A PERGOLA A pergola is a great outdoor feature that you can use for entertaining in your backyard or to support climbing plants. You’ll need to consider the size, shape, colour of the materials you’re going to use and find the best location for the pergola in your garden.

Whether you’re building a pergola that is attached to your main house or as a

freestanding unit, you may need to check your local council regulations before you start building.

ADD A BAMBOO SCREEN Installing bamboo screens in your garden is a great way to create more privacy around your home or keep something out of sight.

There are many different sizes, strengths and colours that you can choose from to suit your outdoors. Putting a bamboo screen up is easier than you think and only requires a few tools and materials.

BUILD A PALING FENCE Ideal for creating privacy and security around your home, building a paling fence is something you can do yourself. Before you start, check with your local council regarding potential height restrictions.

PUT UP BISTRO BLINDS By enclosing the side of an outdoor area with bistro blinds you can protect your deck from the weather and extend its use.

Bistro blinds can be used for any outdoor entertaining area such as a verandah, balcony or pergola, while also adding a little insulation to your home.

Trades and Services PAINTING

PAVE A PATHWAY Paving a pathway can give your garden some direction and provide support for heavy foot traffic areas. It can also create a border and provide a nice visual contrast. The materials you can use to create a pathway include blocks, bricks, cobblestones and pavers.

TILING

INSTALL A RETRACTABLE OR FOLD-DOWN CLOTHESLINE Installing a retractable or fold-down clothesline will help maximise your outdoor space. Retractable clotheslines take up minimal space, while a fold-down clothesline can be mounted on any available wall space that can hold the weight.

The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018 – Page 23

NORTH

2018 Autumn Guide

GO

UL

BU

Mooroopna

RN

North Shepparton

E RIV

Northside

The Boulevard

R

To Providence Field

Connolly Park

Parkside Gardens The Vines

NORTH

1

DOBSON ESTATE

NORTH ORCHARD HAVEN 4 ESTATE

2 RIVE R

SHEPPARTON EAST

To The Grove

South Shepparton MOOROOPNA Archer’s Field

ARCADIA DOWNS ESTATE

SHEPPARTON

3

DOBSON ESTATE

LAKE

Rosemont Park

1

ORCHARD HAVEN 4 ESTATE

Lifestyle Communities

2 RIVE R

SHEPPARTON EAST

ARCADIA DOWNS ESTATE

3

Freedom Place SHEPPARTON

Kensington Gardens LAKE

Windsor Park

Westwood Run

ER

RN

V RI

U Riverwood Park LB U GO

RIVER

Marlboro Park The Grange

Seven Creeks Kialla Lakes

Sanctuary Park RIVER

Proudly brought to you by

Innovation, Efficiency, Quality and Experience Page 24 – The Adviser, New House & Land – March 2018

Chris Smith

& A S S OC I AT E S PTY LTD

• CIVIL ENGINEERS • LAND SURVEYORS • URBAN & REGIONAL PLANNERS • PROJECT MANAGERS Level 1 - 135 Fryers St, Shepparton T: (03) 5820 7700 Visiting Office: Shop 3, 11-13 Sydney St, Kilmore T: (03) 5781 1939

www.csmith.com.au