MARQUETTE TURNER LUXURY HOMES
Luxury Home of The Week
Michael Marquette’s “View From the Bridge”: The EverShrinking Money Pie During what is the toughest economic period since the Great Depression there are enormous pressures being placed on Governments at all levels throughout the entire World. There are literally hundreds, if not thousands of interest groups all pushing for a greater piece of an ever shrinking money pie and its obvious that everyone will not be happy. The Australian Federal Government is preparing to hand down the budget for the coming year and speculation is rife that Australia will be running what Wayne Swan (the Australian Treasurer) is calling a “temporary deficit” for six years- in other words, is preparing for continuous deficits until 2015. In real estate there is constant speculation by media, vendors and buyers which is being fueled by real estate agents about when the “recovery” will occur? I read some of the articles with disgust because it is obvious to all that Nostradamus would have a hard time predicting date.
I have seen statements by agents that property will recover later in the year (2009), sometime in 2010 and I have seen an agent team on Sydney’s Northern Beaches say that they have never seen a better property market! Personally, I have never heard a more ridiculous claim. Household debt in Australia has more than quadrupled in the last ten years to more than AUD $3.5 trillion- this has enormous implications. Wages have not increased by anywhere near that rate and the lending frenzy which fueled the pricing boom is unlikely to happen again. The facts are simple. The World economy is in deep trouble. Banks have written off over US $1 trillion in bad debt and indicators from the World Bank are that another US $3 trillion may have to go the same way. If that is true we are only one quarter the way toward resolving the current problems the banking industry is facing. Australia hasn’t felt the full effects of the crisis, however unemployment is rising quickly, youth unemployment is rising at an even higher rate, household disposable income is greatly reduced and our Governments are going to be paying back their accumulated debt for decades after this crisis has past. The former Australian
Government took ten years to pay back a AUD $96 billion debt. The deficit in Australia is likely to be AUD $70 billion by 2010- just next year. Infrastructure projects have been put on hold, many of which I believe should have been started many years before now, immigration numbers have been reduced and will therefore decrease the demand for housing and thus reduce pricing pressure. The First Home Owners Grant looks set to be cut and First Home Buyers currently account for over 25% of new mortgages in Australia. So when looking at the pure facts and without placing and political bias on the issue, it is simply impossible to predict when property prices will recover, along with sales volumes. There are far to many variables and we are still to experience the worst, we are not anywhere close to being half way through. The only way to answer the question of when property prices will recover and keep a straight face is to say no time soon. To predict a date is to lose all credibility, becoming more like a fortune teller or astrologer. Talking the market up at the moment is the act of a lunatic and we need to sit and watch how events unfold.
Byron Bay Hinterland Resort-Like Estate: Possum Creek, NSW
Latin Architecture at the Conga room in L.A.
Location Possum Creek is just 10 minutes away from the township of Mullumbimby. Byron Bay is reached within 20 minutes, and the Gold Coast Airport is an hours drive north. What makes it special T his is an incredible owner ship opportunity of a magnificent property situated in the exotic hinterland of Byron Bay. It is a resort-like estate providing, peace and plenty of space. It is properties like this that create their own market.
The Conga Room in Los Angeles is not only the city’s hippest Latin night club, but the design by Belzberg Architects, truly captures the energy, roots and history of the latin community that has become deeply entwined with LA’s fervent modern lifestyle. Using 14,000 square feet as a live venue space, a restaurant, three distinct bars, patio seating, and a VIP lounge and private room, the ambiance and decor make it THE place to be seen
The eclectic property has a north facing main residence, 3 vehicle garaging, a spacious gate house for guest accommodation, a gardeners accommodation, a large office and a tea house (across the bridge), all of them blending perfectly with the idyllic natural Australian bush surrounds. In addition to the native trees there are palms, orchids, f e r n s, s t a g h o r n s, b a m b o o s a n d magnolias. This is an exciting property; a hinterland retreat nestled within 21 acres of rainforest (part of it regenerated with native trees). Contact: Michael Marquette or Christine Watson
What an amazing Brazilian Box! Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan uses space in a carefully, precise and nuanced manner.
Taking into account the many security concerns in Sao Paulo, Kogan has constructed luxury homes comprised of stone lined boxes on top of more boxes. Additionally, he has added timber slatted boxes that open outwards towards slim-lined pool perhaps with no doors to m a rk i n s i d e o r o u t s i d e. T h i s i s
The Coco Chanel 5 Euro Coin by Karl Lagerfield
The Space-Saving, Rotating, Modern Kitchen
In celebration of the 125th Anniversary of the birth of Coco Chanel, the talented Karl Lagerfeld has designed and minted, a special five Euro coin.
The coins will be produced in both a silver and gold version, with only a select number of them being made available. Only 99 of the gold coins were made and they’re worth 5,900 Euros; the silver coins are worth 49 Euros, and 11,900 were made. The iconic coin will feature Coco Chanel herself, characteristically adorned in her signature hat and pearls on the front and quilted leather pattern on the back, aside the numeral 5. No doubt, an ode tot he popular Chanel No. 5 scent.
The winner, Marcello Zuffo, a Senior Designer Electrolux ICON and Interior Design Magazine teamed up to challenge members of the architect and design community to present innovative, thoughtful concepts for an adaptable kitchen that meets the changing needs of today’s modern family, taking into
The coin is a must have for all serious lovers of the iconic brand, embodying the classic timeless beauty Chanel has presented for nearly a century. And where better to put a Chanel c o i n , t h a n yo u r C h a n e l w a l l e t !
innovation. The unique concept of this movable kitchen not only addresses space problems, but would meet the needs of a “As a city dweller myself, I congratulate Marcello for addressing a lack of space with a completely unique concept,” said Cindy Allen, judge and editor-in-chief of Interior Design Magazine. No doubt the range, if produced, would be available in more colours than just orange. Simon Turner.
account that the Electorlux Icon appliances are fitted in the cabinets ad can be easily revolved in any direction. The winner was Marcello Zuffo, a Senior Designer at Motorola’s Consumer Experience Design Group (CXD), who took a rotating mechanical concept and created a space saving
Swine Flu and You Your Questions Answered
With Swine flu now spreading across the world, we thought it pertinent to bring highlight some important questions and answers that may help your understanding of the issue, and assist in protecting your family and friends.
W h at i s S w i n e F l u ? S w i n e Influenza (swine flu)_ is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza viruses that cause regular outbreaks in pigs. People do not normally get swine flu, but human infections can and do happen. Swine flu viruses have been reported to spread from person-toperson, but in the past, this transmission was limited and not sustained beyond three people. Are there human infections with swine flu in the U.S. ? In late Marcha and early April 2009, cases of human infection with swine influenza A (H1N1) viruses were first reported in Southern California and near San Antonio, Texas. Other U.S. states have reported cases of swine flu infection in humans and cases have been reported internationally as well. An updated case count of confirmed swine flu infections in the United States is kept at http:// www.cdc.gov/sineflu/investigation.htm. CDC, local and state health agencies are working together to investigate this situation. Is this swine flu virus contagious? CDC has determined that this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is contagious and is spreading from human to human. However, at this time, it is not known how easily the virus spreads between people.
What are the signs and symptoms of swine flu in people? The symptoms of swine flu in people are in similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with sine flu. In the past, severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people. Like seasonal flu, swine flu causes a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions. How does swine flu spread? Spread of this swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is thought to be happening in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing of people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something with flu virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose. How can someone with the flu infect someone else? Infected people may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 or more days after becoming sick. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. What should I do to keep from getting the flu? First and most important: wash your hands. Try to stay in good general health. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food. Try not to touch surfaces that be
contaminated with the flu virus. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Are there medicines to treat swine flu? Yes. CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir or zanamivir for the treatment and/or prevention of infection with these swine influenza viruses. Antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid or an inhaler) that fights against the flu by keeping flu viruses from reproducing in your body. If you get sick, antiviral drugs can make your illness milder and make you feel better quicker. They may also prevent serious flu complications. For treatment, antiviral drugs work best if started soon after getting sick (within 2 days of symptoms). How long can an infected person spread swine flu to others? People infected with swine influenza virus should be considered potentially contagious as long as they are symptomatic and possible for up to 7 days following illness onset. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination? Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands.
How long can viruses live outside the body? We know that some viruses and bacteria can live 2 hours or longer on surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs and desks. Frequent handwashing will help you reduce the chance of getting contamination from these common surfaces.
seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in it kills germs on your hands.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick? There is no vaccine available right now to protect against swine flu. There are everyday actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illness like influenza. Take these steps to protect your health:
What should I do if I get sick? If you live in San Diego County or Imperial County California or Guadalupe County, Texas and become ill with influenza-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you may want to contact you health care provider, particularly if you are worried about your symptoms. Your health care provider will determine whether influenza testing or treatment is needed.
*Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. *Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze (alchohol-based hand cleaners are also effective). *Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way. *Try to avoid close contact with sick people. *If you get sick with influenza, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing. If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. Do not go to work or school if ill. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Cover your cough or sneeze if you do not have a tissue. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze. What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu? Washing you hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. We recommend that when you wash your hands-with soap and warm water-that you wash for 15 to 20
If you are sick, you should stay home and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading you illness to others. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care. Children emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: * Fast breathing or trouble breathing * Bluish skin color * Not drinking enough fluids * Not waking up or not interacting * Being irritable that the child does not want to be held * Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough * Fever with rash
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: * Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath * Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen * Sudden dizziness * Confusion * Severe or persistent vomiting
How serious is swine flu infection? Like seasonal flu, swine flu in humans can vary in severity from mild to severe. Between 2005 until January 2009, 12 human cases of swine flu were detected in the U.S. with no deaths occurring. However, swine flu infection can be serious. In September 1988, a previously healthy 32-year-old pregnant woman in Wi s c o n s i n w a s h o s p i t a l i z e d f o r pneumonia after being infected with swine flu and died 8 days later. A swine flu outbreak in Fort Dix, New Jersey occurred in 1976 that caused more than 200 cases with serious illness in several people and one death. Can I get swine influenza from eating or preparing pork? No. Swine influenza viruses are not spread by food. You cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe. ADDITIONALLY The US Centers for Disease Control is using Twitter to send real-time alerts and updates regarding swine flu. CDC Emergency had 37,431 followers on Twitter as of early evening. Stay Safe! Simon Tuner. Marquette Turner Luxury Homes
Mariah Carey buys a Stunning Bel Air Estate
For Rent: 3 bedroom Semi-Penthouse
Mariah Carey and husband Nick Cannon Carey, have just purchased a magnificent gated private estate on 3 acres with a prime Bel Air address. For approximately $7 million USD, they have an amazing 360 degree views of the entire city of LA. This sprawling, multi-winged mansion spans 11,750 square feet (approx.) and includes five bedrooms and eight bathrooms. Additionally, there are seven fire places, the 2-story center hall traditionally includes formal living and dining rooms, a den, family room, a library/study, media room, office, as well as the essential recording studio.
With Outstanding views of Sydney The apartment is fully air conditioned, with split room facilities. You will enjoy full concierge services, plus all that this spacious two/three bedroom apartment offers. A fully functional galley kitchen-the envy of every gourmet cook allowing easy access to the dining and living areas which take in full vista views of the city.
Simon Turner
Two oversized outside entertainment areas allow you to enjoy outside living to the full, with one featuring an innovative outside kitchen, including full gas cooking facilities-everything you need to prepare a feast. Enjoy all the facilities of living in the city, with total privacy, full security, parking, swimming pool, entertaining area and your own private entrance. This spacious apartment takes up the whole of the 16th floor, classifying it as a semi-penthouse. Situated in a modern building on a historic site, it offers sensational views over the city and suburbs.
The grounds include two motor courts, a huge rectangular swimming pool with a pool side pavillion, a large brick terrace with long views down the rugged canyon towards downtown Los Angeles, several flat lawn areas, a gazebo, and three gated entrances. In New York City, Mariah still owns a tremendous triplex apartment in TriBeCa and in the Bahamas, she owns a multi-acre ocean front compound on guard gated Eleuthera Island.
working from home. The layout of the apartment allows you to have visitors without intrusion on your private space.
The master bedroom features ensuite, generous walk-in robe and dressing room. With a large family bathroom and additional toilet, the property also offers enormous storage and linen space. The third bedroom can be a study/ office that would suit the executive
This outstanding property is available from late May. Inspection by appointment only. 1601/29 Commonwealth Street, Sydney Price: Vicinity of $1,500 Per Week 2/3 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, 1 Security Car Park
The Coco Chanel 5 Euro Coin by Karl Lagerfield
Mid-North Coast Luxury Country House
Analyst’s expectations have been met, when on Monday the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) chose not to cut interest rates, holding them at 3%. Many wonder if this is a wise decision considering rising unemployment levels, falling house prices and concerns that the Swine flu epidemic has hindered prospects of a Global economic recovery.
RBA Governor Glenn Stevens, Forecasts that the economy is slowly improving, but still has a long way to go, stating that global financial conditions remain on a path of gradual im provemen t, despite c on fi den c e remaining relatively fragile. Although interest cuts have not been passed on this month, it must be remembered that RBA has slashed rates from 7.25% to 3% since September 2008, in an attempt to resuscitate the economy. Brittany West Matquette Turner Luxury Homes.
“Set on 100 acres of lush rolling hills” This luxury home on Searles Road, Amber Hill, Tamban is situated 20 minutes inland Scott’s Head and is approximately the same distance south of Nambucca Heads on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales, Australia.
luxurious rural escape. Amber Hill Estate offers a country lifestyle without compare. Price: Offers invited from $1.68 million AUD
This country house is set on 100 acres, of lush rolling hills with glorious rural views in every direction. It has 4 bedrooms with a 15 meter wet edge swimming pool, tennis court and underground cellar. It boasts flowing, sun filled interiors with Italian travertine floors and imported Poliform kitchen with integrated appliances. There is a separate 2 bedroom guest house and dedicated machinery shed, 2 enormous dams, an established orchard and crop irrigation system. Discover a very private world that is extraordinarily beautiful and abundantly
CONTACT: Michael Marquette or Christine Watson
Boozy Banana Pancakes -
The perfect Hangover Recipe A Sunday Brunch Recipe- to help recover from a big “Saturday Night” or take the edge off a Sunday morning. Buttermilk Pancakes with Boozy Bananas (Serves 4) Ingredients: * 1.25 cups SR Flour * 1 Tbsp Baking Powder * 1 Tbsp Sugar * 1/2 Tsp Salt * 1/3rd Cup Butter+Tbsp Butter * 425 ML Buttermilk * 1 Egg * 4 Bananas * 1/3rd Cup Packed Brown Sugar * 50 ML Dark Rum * 1/2 Tsp Cinnamon
1. Preheat oven to 65 C 2. Combine flour, baking powder, sugar and salt in a large bowl. Melt 2 Tbsp butter. In separate bowl whisk togeather buttermilk, egg and melted
butter until smooth. Pour wet ingredients over flour mixture and whisk until smooth. Grease a large non stick skillet with just enough vegetable oil to coat the pan and place over medium heat until hot. Spoon batter onto skillet to form pancakes and cook until edges bubble and begin to dry. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until golden. Remove to baking dish and place in warm oven, continue making pancakes until batter is used. 3. Meanwhile, slice bananas into 1/2 inch (1cm) pieces and set aside. Melt remaining butter in medium non stick skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Add rum and continue cooking for 2 minutes until smooth syrup developes. Add bananas and cinnamon and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until bananas have softened slightly. 4. Arrange pancakes on plate and spoon over bananas and syrup. Serve immediately.
Penfolds Grange 2004 is Senstational
The latest vintage of Australia’s iconic wine Penfolds Grange, the 2004 vintage, has been released to tremendous praise. Carrying a price tag of $549 AUD a bottle, critics have been rating the vintage as high as 98 and 99 out of 100. The 2004 vintage comprises 96 percent Shiraz (syrah) grape and 4 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, which is typical of this fantastic wine. Penfolds Grange is a South Australian wine and is widely considered Australia’s “first growth” and its most collectable wine.
Some interesting facts about Penfolds Grange: * The first vintage of Penfolds Grange was made on an experimental basis in 1951 by winemaker Max Schubert, while he was employed by Penfolds Wines. * By the end of the 1980s the wine came to be regarded as a collector’s item. * The name “Hermitage” was dropped from the label with teh 1990 vintage, following obfections by the European Union authorities to the use of a French placename.