themake move We localsomepreviewstunninghomes. ideas.gardenfiretrends,Flooringpits& Winter – the perfect time to sell.
Make it about your home, not your home loan. Your gmcu lender supports you every step of the way, so you can focus on what’s really important. Speak to your local team or visit Credit eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. Goulburn Murray Credit Union Co-operative Limited ABN 87 087 651 509 AFSL/Australian credit licence 241 364. Greetings PROPERTY LOVERS Welcome to the first edition of Make the Move and we’re excited. Brought to you by the Benalla Ensign, the property lifestyle quarterly showcases the best local homes as well as the latest trends in home Flooringimprovement.isthefoundation of any great home and this month we tackle what’s available in today’s Ourmarketplace.featureon firepits will blow your Thesemind. ever-popular items are ideal when creating a centrepiece in your outdoor living area, providing ambience and warmth for you and your family and friends. And while the winter months are not generally a time to spend long hours in the garden, it’s never too early to imagine or reimagine what you can achieve outdoors. See which gardening trends appeal most to you. There’s plenty inside this edition for everyone to enjoy. Let’s get into it. Ultra-modern bungalow in prized position 5 Perfect family home on large block 6 Luxurious renovation with lifestyle benefits 7 Inspiring Benalla family masterpiece 9 Winter – the forgotten selling season 10-11 Prestigious rural hideaway will surprise 13 Enviable country retreat in private location 14 Marketing – you can’t sell a secret 15 Supercool backyard garden ideas 18-19 Drawn to firepits 24-25 What’s beneath your feet? 26 To advertise in the next Make the Move, please contact Issie Hill on 5762 4444 2 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
Where to for HOUSE2022 PRICES MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 3
Yes, the current run of price growth has peaked and tighter credit conditions will have a downward impact on house lifestyleDemandprices.forregionalmarketscontinues to perform well brought about by the way people work as well as the desire for space, but it’s unlikely that we will see the same strong conditions we saw over recent Anotheryears.factor affecting the market is elevated construction costs off the back of supply disruptions. Some builders and construction companies already have not survived the cost squeeze. But every market is different and regional areas could be insulated from a broader housing downturn due to an ongoing imbalance between supply and Townsdemand.suchas Benalla will continue to attract new residents because there will always be demand for bigger land and to experience a more relaxing and evenpaced lifestyle.
Some recent standout sales at the top end of the local market, include 3A Mitchell Street, Benalla (pictured right) which sold for $1,425,000 in May and 9 Arundel Street, Benalla (pictured left) that sold for $805,000 in February.
All eyes have been on the real estate market lately following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s decision to lift the official cash rate, with the RBA expected to follow that up with further rate rises as it tries to bring inflation under Despitecontrol. this and cost of living pressures, the market is displaying strong resilience although early signs are there of a market starting to cool. The pandemic unexpectedly pushed housing prices higher than ever, including in regional areas and homeowners are wondering where property values will go next.
LET OUR FAMILY SHOW YOUR FAMILY THE WAY HOME Your local market specialists, BRR Real Estate is your rst call when you’re ready to sell Specialising in residential, commercial, lifestyle and rural properties Bene t from our experience and local knowledge as well as our honesty and integrity Call David and Anna today to discuss your real estate goals 72 Bridge Street, Benalla | (03) 5762 3322 | info@benallarealestate.net.au Agents for Benalla Mini Storage David0410MacKinnon556531 Anna0407Greenhalgh945959
Character-filled bungalow,with BRIGHT FUTURE
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 5
This charming California bungalow has been expertly Therenovated.home has been reroofed and replumbed and rewired, including a new gas hot water system. And food preparation never looked this good with your new kitchen. The residence also has new flooring as well as built-in wardrobes, air conditioning and a rear deck and a high-clearance carport. A section of the floor is also insulated. Some of the home’s period features such as its decorative ceilings have been carefully retained and maintained. Located a short walk to Lake Benalla and lakeside walking trails, you’re close to Benalla’s art gallery, bowling club and prominent local schools. With no windows from neighbouring properties looking into the backyard, the deck makes the most of its Contactspace.the agent today to book an inspection. Arundel Street, Benalla Price $570,000
505sqm213
1A
BENALLA RESIDENTIAL RURAL REAL ESTATE David MacKinnon 0410 556 531
: $565,000 TO
T his fun-loving four-bedroom home has recently had renovations, including new sealed a new instant system a renovated bedrooms come with
hardwood There’sflooring.an
paint, sand and
gas heaters
plus
The spacious open-plan kitchen/living/ dining zone has combustion and as well as reverse-cycle stunning extensive
air conditioning and
gas hot water
Readybathroom.foroccupation right now, all the
ceiling fans and robes.
undercover paved area for outdoor living. Occupying 995sqm in a quiet street, the address is close to primary and secondary schools. Contact the agent today to book an inspection. 4 Hume Court, Benalla BENALLA RESIDENTIAL RURAL REAL ESTATE David MacKinnon 0410 556 531 995sqm114 Price: $385,000 TO $398,000 CLOSE TO SCHOOLS Great family home 6 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
hardwood floors,
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 7
There’s established lawn and the shedding is one-of-a-kind and provides a great use of its space.
588sqm234 20 Barkly Street, Benalla RAY WHITE BENALLA Shayne McKean 0438 568 287 Price: $760,000 TO $835,000
PURE ABOVELUXURYALLELSE
Some desirable renovations have been done to this home and it Theshows.residence has also been restumped, reroofed, rewired, replumbed and reframed and has sound insulation installed in the kitchen/dining area as well as the front right bedroom. High ceilings guide you through the home and into every room with original period details. The stunning kitchen/dining space includes Caesarstone benches and elegant cabinetry and high-end modcons as well as split-system heating/ cooling. Glass floor-to-ceiling bifold doors provide access to your gorgeous outdoor entertainment space, including wood fire heating. Three renovated bedrooms include a master suite with a walk-in robe and ensuite, while the additional bedrooms come with built-in robes. The outdoor entertainment space will be a family favourite, including an inbuilt kitchen with gas connected to the barbecue outside, woodfi re heating as well as a woodfi re pizza cooker. The backyard timber decking was reused from the original home during renovations.
On the lower level we have ample storage facilities while upstairs is a loft, which features its own bathroom and a large cupboard and a window seat. Contact the agent today to book an inspection.
SOLD SOLD SOLD 5 Levy Court, Benalla Sold June 7, 2022 49 Grant Drive, Benalla Sold May 16, 2022 104 Arundel Street, Benalla Sold May 10, 2022 SOLD SOLD SOLD 91 Waller Street, Benalla Sold May 13, 2022 72 Bowcher Road, Chesney Vale Sold April 6, 2022 29 Porters Road, Benalla Sold March 31, 2022 SOLD SOLD SOLD 69 Clarendon Street, Baddaginnie Sold March 25, 2022 23 Tulip Street, Violet Town Sold May 13, 2022 13 Market Street, Benalla Sold March 4, 2022 Ray White Benalla know how to get the best possible price for your property Peter Symes 0409 434 935 Shayne McKean 0438 568 287 Ray White Benalla is proud to give back to the local community including supporting St Joseph’s Primary School, Benalla P-12 College, Benalla All Blacks SC, Benalla Saints SC, Goorambat SC, Benalla Shorts Film Festival, Benalla Golf Club, Benalla Basketball Association and A Little Ray of Giving - Today Tomorrow Foundation as well as other local organisations. Support the local agency that supports our local community. Ray White Benalla 03 5762 2266 | raywhitebenalla.com LOCAL FACES supporting LOCAL Names
Modern period home of ELEGANT
SOPHISTICATION
Occupying an impressive 1018sqm, outside is established lawn and gardens and plenty of space for a growing Contactfamily. the agent today for more information.
This exquisite home combines period charm with modern Theconvenience.frontlounge/sitting room soaks in the rural parkland aspect and floods the home with natural light.
The open-concept kitchen/dining/ living zone comprises federation stone benchtops and high-end finishes. The master bedroom is spacious and enjoys views of the expansive rear yard and is serviced by an elegant ensuite and a generous walk-in robe. The additional bedrooms all come with full length built-in robes and ceiling fans. Other features include ducted gas heating and evaporative cooling as well as a wood fire and a gas log fire.
1018sqm123
13 Market Street, Benalla RAY WHITE BENALLA Shayne McKean 0438 568 287 Price: SOLD MARCH 2022 MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 9
Winter THE SELLINGFORGOTTENSEASON
While spring traditionallyis the peak selling period, in a competitive market that never sleeps savvy vendors are realising that the colder months can be financially rewarding. Why? Because there are fewer homes on the market which means less competition and this lack of supply can potentially have a positive impact on your sale price.
10 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
Winter can be a great time to show your house if you take the following tips on board. First impressions You don’t get a second chance to make a first Remember,impression.yourproperty is just one in a long list of homes a buyer will inspect, so it’s important they see your home in the best possible light. Your best advertisement starts from street level because buyers will often
Outside winter warmers
Overpricing your home Don’t get sucked in by white noise and so-called experts in the media or an agent trying to buy your listing when you know the sales evidence doesn’t support it. Setting your sale price too high can kill your campaign before it starts.
A buyer will subtract the cost of repairs from their offer if they think your home needs fixing. Set aside some money to make important repairs that are within your means such as painting and guttering and fencing.
MISTAKE 4
If you go overboard with renovations before selling you could lose out at the point of sale depending on current market conditions. Talk to your agent before upgrading your home. MISTAKE 5 Flexibility You will need to be flexible around buyers, including opening your home at different times and you will need to be flexible when examining offers. Instead of flat-out refusing them, you could try making counteroffers to negotiate a win-win situation. Not every offer will be the one, but if you don’t try you won’t know.
THESE MISTAKES do a drive-by before they consider inspecting a property.
Let the light in Natural light is a big attraction to buyers, so consider open homes when your home is most exposed to natural Manysunlight.people today are using decoration specialists and hiring It’sfurniture.agreat way to breathe life into an old home or an investment property or filling an otherwise empty room. Go for fabrics and accessories with a lighter tone and texture.
NUMBER 1 Cleanliness is next to godliness • Get a bucket and sponge and start scrubbing • Get the electrician and plumber in to fix anything that needs fixing NUMBER 2 Your front door • Add interest to your doorway with potted plants or a coat of paint • Ensure gardens pathways are neat and tidy NUMBER 3 Living spaces • Use neutral colours in your living spaces and clean your carpets or replace them • Ensure marked or damaged timber floors are re-sanded and polished NUMBER 4 The heart of the home • Consider replacing marked and stained kitchen floors and benchtops • A fresh coat of paint will cover cooking splatters NUMBER 5 Bathrooms • Bathrooms must be spotless and fix cracked tiles and basins • Air your bathroom before inspections — bad smells turn buyers off • Add a little luxury with new towels and handmade soaps and flowers NUMBER 6 Bedrooms • Reduce the amount of furniture in rooms to give the impression of space • Apply fresh linen and new pillows and extra cushions • De-personalise your bedroom and add little touches such as candles NUMBER 7 Don’t forget outside • Trim lawns and weed garden beds • Mulch can give your yard a fresh look • Introduce texture and colour with pots and flowers NUMBER 8 The big day • Dust and vacuum and add colour to neutral rooms with vases and paintings • Buy some fresh flowers and place them around the home • Turn on a stereo or a television with the sound down low to create atmosphere TO GETTING THE BEST RESULT POSSIBLETIPSDON’TMAKE
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 11
Overcapitalisation
Consider a trip to your local nursery to add colour to your home’s exterior.
Early winter can show off attractive golden leaves adding colour and texture to the facade of your home. Also, when trees lose their leaves it’s the perfect time to prune and remove overgrown branches.
And if there’s enough money in the budget, painting over dark walls and gloomy cabinetry with lighter and brighter shades will have a big impact.
MISTAKE 3 Repairs can kill you
A firepit is a great way to show off your home to potential buyers. Outdoor furniture can also be dressed-up with pillows and throws to make an alfresco space shine at inspection. Homely welcome If your home has good heating, then now is the time to show it off.
If it’s a wood fireplace, gas fireplace or hydronic heating a toasty warm home can be welcoming and appeal to buyers looking for their next purchase.
We all love homes that showcase an indoor-outdoor lifestyle, but this can be challenging in the cold months.
MISTAKE 2 You need to let go Sellers cannot afford to get too attached to their property. You need to let go and listen to your agent about presenting your home, which may conflict with how you look at your home (you’re in it to win it).
MISTAKE 1
, Branch Manager ne : 0475 270 236 ww.nutrienharcourts.com.au Andrew Ashton, Agents Rep ist andrew.ashton@nutrien.com "We have the knowledge, drive and team to negotiate the best property deal for you " "I know Benalla, I know the people "With over 20 years experience in Real Estate, you perty" Luke Marple, Licensed Estate Agent, Branch Manager luke.marple@nutrien.com.au Phone : 0475 270 236 utrien Benalla (03) 57 622 188 Andrew Ashton, Agents Representative, Real Estate Specialist andrew.ashton@nutrien.com.au Phone : 0419 000 850 Bruce Biggs, Licensed Estate Agent, Real Estate Specialist bruce.biggs@nh.com.au Phone : 0400 519 670 "We have drive and te the best property deal for you " "I know Benalla, I know the people and I know the property market " "With over 20 years experience in Real Estate, let me talk to you about your property" "With over 20 years experience in Real Estate, let me talk to you about your property" "We have the knowledge, drive and team to negotiate the best property deal for you " "I know Benalla, I know the people and I know the property market " Luke Marple, Licensed Estate Agent, Branch Manager luke.marple@nutrien.com.au Phone : 0475 270 236 Andrew Ashton, Agents Representative, Real Estate Specialist andrew.ashton@nutrien.com.au Phone : 0419 000 850 Bruce Biggs, Licensed Estate Agent, Real Estate Specialist bruce.biggs@nh.com.au Phone : 0400 519 670
There’s ducted heating and cooling, a separate laundry and bathroom and generous sized bedrooms with built-in robes.
7.37ha423 Your country
A bore provides pristine spring water for drinking and all other water needs, including an allowance for stock and domestic use.
673
The house also comprises a 16-panel solar system, with smartphone monitoring.
As a bonus there’s a separate self-contained studio and workshop as part of a shed conversion.
A large 2ML dam to the left of the entrance is a notable feature and refuge for waterhens and ducks and other local birdlife.
The master bedroom provides views across the garden and front lawn and has a stunning ensuite and walk-in robe.
The studio has its own kitchen and bathroom and Withspa.sealed road frontage, Benalla is just 15 minutes away by car and it’s only minutes by vehicle to the Hume ContactFreeway.theagent today to book an inspection. WarrenbayneWarrenbayneBaddaginnie-Road,
Outside is a large patio area and a fully automated self-levelling Narellan swimming pool, with solar heating and an enclosed rear yard.
LIFESTYLE BEGINS HERE
Enhanced features include a walk-in butler’s pantry, a large rumpus/games room and a lock-up garage with automatic doors.
NUTRIEN HARCOURTS BENALLA Andrew Ashton 0419 000 850 Price: $895,000 MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 13
The home offers great appeal for those who love to entertain, while the open-plan layout comprises a renovated kitchen and dining area.
At the entrance to this wonderful property is a tree-lined driveway, while at the rear of the home are large ash and poplar and plane trees, which frame the entrance to a single open paddock that also has a planting of native trees on either side of the property, providing privacy and shelter.
Mature deciduous trees frame a picturesque outlook through the yard providing glimpses of the Warrenbayne Ranges beyond.
$1,100,000 14 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
The versatile off-grid property is set-up for running a variety of stock which may include cattle and sheep and horses.
Acreage living at ITS ABSOLUTE FINEST
The water supply is serviced by rainfall and a bore which is stored in two tanks (100,000l Rhino tank and a 50,000l stainless-steel tank located above the Thehouse).property offers many options as an established family home, unique bed and breakfast location or a profitable shortterm accommodation.
There’s also ducted cooling, solar hot water, polished boards and a free-standing wood fire.
The property is centrally located to the major regional centres of Benalla and Wangaratta and Mansfield.
Molly Ong is a unique 28-acre property nestled in the highly soughtafter and tightly-held Molyullah Valley.
521
You’re also a short drive to several historic wineries and the snowfields. Contact the agent today to arrange an inspection. Molyullah-Tatong Road, :
The as new four-bedroom homestead features a new kitchen, with a quality English-made Esse wood stove, solar panels with battery storage and an automatic generator back-up.
There are magnificent panoramic views to the surrounding mountains and hills and you rarely see such a striking landscape with an amazing array of flora and fauna.
11.39ha224
Molyullah NUTRIEN HARCOURTS BENALLA Bruce Biggs 0400 519 670 Price
Selling a property is all about Thevisibility.most important marketing time is in the first few weeks so best not to waste them because buyers are always seeking out ‘fresh’ listings. In the digital age, buyers become aware of a new listing instantly.
Every home is a stage In a changing market where listings accumulate and days on market push out and competition is fierce, you can’t afford not to stand out.
Mix-up your featureimage More than 90% of buyers use the internet to search for properties. If your sale uses the same main image throughout the campaign, it can start to look tired and stale. Change your cover photo weekly to attract new attention to your listing.
Stay ahead of the pack Share a brief ‘coming soon’ preview of your listing across all social media channels. Ask your agent what platforms they use and use your own personal channels. Broadcast your sale live on Facebook and Instagram, including a short video message. You need to create buzz and get your listing in front of as many eyeballs as possible.
For example, an investment unit will not have the same marketing strategy as a prestigious family home. But ask yourself this question. You wouldn’t drive around in a new car without insurance. Marketing is an investment in your purchase price and, ultimately, your profit. Don’t get caught short underselling your biggest asset.
Bigger the sign the better Anyone driving through your neighbourhood will be alerted to your signboard and a big sign ensures your sale is seen. Your neighbours are unlikely to buy your home unless they are upgrading or downsizing, but they have family and friends and people they work with who might be looking to move to the area.
Marketing-you CAN’T SELL A SECRET
It is crucial that your home is priced correctly or marketed without a price, so you don’t eliminate any part of the Pricingmarket.your home incorrectly at the start can lead to trouble later. Buyers are doing their own research and comparing properties all the time. If they deem your sale doesn’t reflect fair market value they might reject your listing on price alone, even before they’ve inspected it. This can blowout your days on market which can also have a negative impact on your sale price. Talk to your agent about how to attract the most buyers to your sale. Real estate is a volume game, the more inspections you have the more opportunities there are for offers, which gives you the best possible chance to get the best possible result. How much marketing do I need? A seller can allocate as much or as little vendor-paid marketing. Again, ask your agent how much you need to spend on your campaign, including where the money will go and Everywhy.property is different and warrants a different marketing mix. This usually depends on the types of buyers you want to attract.
Afeatures.beautifully presented home allows the buyer to make an emotional connection with a home. Pictures are worth tens of thousands of dollars
Hiring a professional photographer is Theyessential.understand lighting and architecture and interior design. They know how to capture the mood and feeling of a home, which makes your sale more attractive in a cluttered market.
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 15
Staging your home creates an unforgettable first impression and showcases your property’s beat
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OUR SERVICES We offer many alternatives for Heating your home. If you’re not sure what you need, just ask us! We offer many alternatives for Cooling your home or of ce. If you’re not sure what best will suit you. We provide a range of Electric, Gas or Solar hot water services, we’ll tailor an option for you. Let us take care of the system design & installation, plus the rebate paperwork to make it easiest for you. Let us make your outdoor lifestyle the best yet with our exclusive range of services and appliances. HIGHLY EFFICIENT INVERTER SYSTEMS FOR ONE ROOM, OR YOUR WHOLE HOME 148 Bridge St E, Benalla • (03) 5762 3334 78 Broadway St, Cobram VIC 3644 • (03) 5871 1575 www.hotandcoldshop.com.au
BACKYARD GARDEN IDEAS
While there will always be a place for a cost-effective formal-looking garden, today’s owners are looking for something different.
18 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
In the world of garden design, trends are popping up all the time. When it comes to landscaping, the outside world moves slower so it makes sense to start planning now. Here are some outdoor ideas to get you stimulated while improving your lifestyle and increasing your property’s value. Organic shapes Natural forms and living designs are making a comeback. Rigid, formal gardens and overstructured outdoor areas are slowly being replaced with organic shapes. The formality of box hedges and similar are being replaced by cloud pruning and Curvedballs.walls and irregular forms are replacing straight lines and right angles.
Super cool
Winter is upon us, but it’s never too early to start thinking about spring and a garden makeover.
If you want a sustainable and lowmaintenance garden, look no further than native plants which have seen a surge in popularity.
Native ingredients
The benefits are manifold, including creating a self-sustaining garden while conserving local biodiversity and encouraging native wildlife such as insects and lizards and birds.
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 19
Kids zone Children love connecting with nature and interacting with outdoors. Kids also like getting dirty and experiencing new things and it gets them away from technology and Considerscreens. interactive spaces as well as fruit and veggie plantings or create a space for older children to socialise with friends.
Centre stage Instead of hosting friends and family inside, more of us are doing it
Wild & scruffy Untamed gardens are growing in popularity because of their vitality and energy and their low-maintenance Texturedappeal. and layered gardens using a variety of plant species that are sustainable also feel more Insteadauthentic.ofreaching for the lawnmower and secateurs, relax and let nature takes its course and enjoy the benefits.
The desire and popularity to nurture ourselves and our backyard spaces is here to stay. Many homeowners today are turning over their outdoor spaces to smallscale food production, which also provide interactive and educational opportunities for children.
Vegetable & herb rewards
Thisalfresco.means decks and firepits and builtin entertaining platforms. Pergolas are also making a comeback. These structures take centre stage and come in a range of designs and materials and colours. Decks are ever-popular, but with some imagination and professional advice you can create something individual and Grapenatural-looking.vinesandwisteria and climbing plants are the perfect accompaniment to any permanent structure.
Precast Concrete Solutions Our business is sed fering quality pr ucts and a iendly cust er ser ce If we don’t make or stock a product wewill endeavourto source it foryou, our customers.valued • Textured & Woodgrain sleepers • Pavers • Retaining Wall blocks • Raised garden beds At Vibrated Concrete Products we stock:
ARE YOU BUILDING OR RENOVATING YOUR GARDEN? Vibrated Concrete Products Benalla is a well established manufacturer of precast concrete products in northeast Victoria to cater for the needs of our regions builders, plumbers, farmers, landscapers and the home DIY enthusiasts; also supplying products for civil works and domestic sewage treatment systems. 17 McPherson Road, Benalla Contact: Rod Cook Telephone 03 5762 3934 Mobile 0418 399 885 Website: www.vibratedconcreteproducts.com.au Email: info@vibratedconcreteproducts.com.au • Textured & Woodgrain sleepers • Pavers • Retaining Wall blocks • Raised garden beds • Fire Pits • Smooth face sleepers • Garden and lawn edging At Vibrated Concrete Products we stock: Landscaping andGarden Productsplus Garden sleepersare also available foryour next gardeningbuilding,orlandscapingproject.
SHOWROOM @ 1 Yellow Brick Rd Benalla 3672 Ph: 03 5762 3838 RTA: 36093
SHOWROOM @ 1 Yellow Brick Rd Benalla 03 5762 3838 - RTA: 36093
Drawn to firepits
We all love to socialise around a crackling fire.
24 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
Stools and chairs or built-in seating are up to you, while ambient lighting is a great way to add atmosphere.
As humans we are naturally drawn to it. Firepits are in vogue and a must-have in every They’rehome.afocal point and an area to congregate with family and friends, which makes your garden a year-round usable However,space.your firepit will spend most of its time without a fire, so make sure you design a space that looks appealing without a flame. Define your area with paving and select a style and colour that not only suits the style of the firepit but your garden as Seatingwell. is important, so make sure it’s something comfortable and in keeping with your look and feel.
Choose your material Steel Comes in carbon, stainless and Corten. Carbon is cost-effective but requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Stainless steel provides greater rust protection, while it’s easy to clean. Corten’s unique alloy causes it to finely rust and is coveted for its contemporary look. Copper Will never rust but will patina from its original shiny copper colour. Copper is an expensive metal so it will cost more but it’s a durable choice.
MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022 | 25
Concrete
It certainly won’t rust but it will discolour from smoke. It’s heavy as well and sealing is recommended.
Chimineas Produce a lot of heat in a small unit making them ideal for verandas and Thepatios.small mouth of chimineas creates a drafting action drawing fresh air into the fire to get the most out of your firewood. The fire burns hotter and cleaner so there’s not as much ash and less smoke. Once chimineas heat up, the terra cotta or steel radiates heat from all sides.
Fire tables A functional and attractive addition to your outdoor area because they serve two purposes, including holding drinks and nibbles and providing warmth. Most are gas so the tank is hidden below the table. They can also burn wood or gas which requires a line. A ledge can hold drinks when not in use or keep your dinner or coffee warm when fired up.
Designer fireplaces If space and money permits, the ultimate in outdoor fire is the fireplace. They can be on a DIY budget or grandiose, but the finished product can add to your home’s market appeal when it comes time to sell.
What’s beneath YOUR FEET?
Shag Homeowners are returning to this style in droves because its luxuriously comfortable and complements just about any furniture and décor. Shag also comes in a range of colours which can make a room come alive.
An emerging trend is bamboo flooring which is environmentally friendly and durable. Some of the benefits of bamboo include its application for wet areas because it has exceptional water resistance as well as standing up to a lot of punishment.
Laminate Laminate flooring provides the look and feel of real timber for a fraction of the price, including installation costs. More homes today are installing wide-plank laminate flooring, with homeowners looking for features such as water-resistance and stainresistance as well as a range of textured appearances.
Hardwood For homeowners who want the sumptuous look of natural material, traditional hardwoods are hard to go past. The authentic look is immensely popular and there’s no mistaking the tactile quality of a hardwood. There has also been a recent trend towards geometric floor patterns to add further appeal to your home’s layout.
26 | MAKE THE MOVE WINTER 2022
If you’re finally ready to tackle that remodelling project and create a fresh new look for your living spaces and private retreats, here are some of the top flooring trends.
Carpet Like everything to do with home decoration, carpets have come in and out of style, but they are always on any short list. Carpeting is warm and soft and there’s a growing trend for statement carpets and geometric floor rugs for common living areas.
Bamboo
Berber Berber carpet is not a common choice in today’s homes (used more in commercial applications), but if you want something that will withstand long-term wear and tear this carpet is worth considering.
Tile A classic choice for many homeowners, particularly in high-traffic areas and ever-popular because of its hardwearing qualities, the range of tiling today means there’s a tile to suit every taste. Designer tiles which move away from your traditional square or rectangular shapes are becoming popular as well as marble-look tiles.
Vinyl Warm and inviting, vinyl flooring has come a long way and the range of styles being produced today are aesthetically pleasing and visually spectacular. Known for its affordability, luxury vinyl planks have become more durable and damage-resistant which has increased their popularity.
This snapshot will help you choose a floor design that is both personal and stylish. The material you choose will have a dramatic impact on your home and your lifestyle.
Cut and Loop Cut and loop pile blends are versatile and highly durable and are available in a range of colours and shades. Creative patterns are also making a comeback.
Sustainable Flooring Environmentally responsible flooring has increased in popularity as homeowners search for eco-friendly materials. Bamboo is popular for a variety of reasons mentioned earlier. Today, carpet manufacturers are also sourcing product created from recycled materials such as natural fibres. If you’re willing to shop around you can find hard flooring materials that are reclaimed or recycled, including salvaged wood and cork.
Monday to Sunday Yes we are open! 7 Days 45 SYDNEY RD, BENALLA PH: 5762 9800 OPEN 7 DAYS SupplyingyourDecoratinghomeall newkitchen appliancesand GardeningLaundryBathroomwhitegoodsandupdating Hanging a pictureHome organisationPlant your veggiesBuilding achook ResealingPaintingshedaroomthedeck We can help you with MITRE 10 TRADING HOURS Mon – Fri 7.00am to 5.00pm Sat 9.00am to 3.00pm Sun 10.00am to 3.00pm (WINTER) Sun 9.00am to 3.00pm (SPRING TO AUTUMN) Public Hols 9.00am to 3.00pm
NOW OPEN SUNDAYS Open 7 Days MITRE 10 TRADING HOURS Mon – Fri 7.00am to 5.00pm Sat 9.00am to 3.00pm Sun 10.00am to (WINTER)3.00pm Sun 9.00am to 3.00pm (SPRING TO AUTUMN) Public Hols 9.00am to 3.00pm BIGGER AND BETTER GARDEN CENTRE HUGE TIMBER YARD FOR BUILDERS BI-RITEHANDYMANANDELECTRICALAPPLIANCESANDHOMEWARESGENERALHARDWARELINESPLUMBING & PAINTSHOWROOMSKITCHENCOLOURCENTREHUGERANGEOFTOOLS OPEN 7 DAYS45 SYDNEY RD, BENALLA PH: 5762 9800
