NEWS SUMMER 2017
CELEBRATING 26 YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE DIAMOND VALLEY The outlook for buying, selling and investing.
SUMMER
MARKET REPORT
WELCOME TO THE SUMMER EDITION OF THE MORRISON KLEEMAN PROPERTY REPORT.
I
t has been another astonishing year for Melbourne’s property market, and as we come into the holiday season, this upward trend looks likely to continue. Results from the September quarter show that Melbourne’s median house price increased by 0.7% for this period. While that is a moderate increase compared to the results of the previous few quarters, properties within the Banyule, Nillumbik and Whittlesea shires have continued to shine. Eltham’s median house price rose 9.8% to $945,000 during this timeframe, while Watsonia North displayed a staggering 14.2% increase to $825,000. With Greensborough increasing 6.8% to $869,000 and Mernda experiencing a similar rise of 7.9% to $562,500, these local areas are outperforming the wider Melbourne demographic. There has been a similar story on the private sale market also. With Melbourne’s slowing median house price growth possibly reflected in its slight increase to 32 average days on market, suburbs within the Diamond Valley are averaging less than 30 days. This includes Greensborough, Eltham, and Montmorency, with Diamond Creek also significantly having only 24 average days on market. Mernda’s median house price increase was also reflected in their 21 average days on market. Along with neighbouring Doreen’s low 19 days, the suggestion is that there is great demand to buy within these areas. In addition to the private sale market, auction results have also been impressive within these localities. While the success rate across Melbourne recorded at the end of September was 73%, Doreen was the highest achiever in September with a 100% success rate. At Morrison Kleeman, all properties put to auction in 2017 have achieved a 94% success rate. According to the REIV, “the market is delivering everything home sellers need: solid price growth, high success rates
and strong buyer demand.” The low and stable interest rates in 2017 have allowed buyers to have more confidence in the property market. This has resulted in high buyer demand, especially in the north eastern suburbs where we have seen record numbers through open homes and multiple offers/ bids on the majority of properties for sale. “Everything is aligned for sellers, who are benefitting from strong buyer confidence and record low interest rates.” It is pleasing that our local market continues to attract such significant buyer demand. This is reflective not only of the fantastic properties available for sale within our communities, but also of the esteem by which buyers value the market we represent. Banyule, Nillumbik and Whittlesea all have a fantastic amount of community events available over the coming Summer period, and we here at Morrison Kleeman, are pleased to share some of these with you within our magazine. If you’re thinking about a move in 2018, now is the time to talk to one of our experienced sales agents. We offer expert advice and are more than happy to assist with any of your local real estate needs. Regards, Graham Morrison
NOTABLE LOCALS PEOPLE AND PLACES OF NOTE IN THE DIAMOND VALLEY
KINGS OF KANGAROO GROUND
P ‘
assion is what drives perfection’
blind tasting takes the psychology out of the assessment process, so that the taster
is a mantra at Kings of Kangaroo
can appreciate the wine purely on its merits. To have received such positive feedback
Ground winery, and it is this
in blind tasting from the judges in Shanghai was therefore so rewarding to us. It is a
passion that provides inspiration for
validation by our peers.”
creating expert wines. Winning awards
Kings of Kangaroo Ground Wines are available for purchase from the Eltham and
at recent wine shows, including a Gold
Hurstbridge Farmers Markets. Alternatively, please feel free to visit Ken and Chris at the
Medal at a prestigious International
vineyard on Saturday’s between 10am and 5pm for tasting.
Wine Show in Shanghai, Ken King and Chris Ramsay, winemakers at ‘Kings’, were members of the Eltham Amateur Winemakers during the 1980’s. It was here, learning the craft of winemaking from senior locals of Italian and Greek ancestry, that Ken and Chris transitioned their hobby into a passion. It is this passion that helps them strive to create quality wine today. “It is interesting in that we have found a lot of the more traditional, full bodied reds are not doing as well in the competitions as they used to,” says Ken. “There appears to be a move towards more subtle flavours,” he elaborated further. Chris agreed, recognising the importance of monitoring market trends to assess their own sustainably produced wines against competitors. “Only yesterday I brought a competitor’s wine in to organise a tasting for Ken and I.” said Chris. “For Ken, I ensured it was a ‘blind tasting’, so that he could test this wine against one of our own. To do a
BROWN’S RESERVE
B
rown’s Reserve is a community reserve in Albion Crescent, Greensborough, that helps celebrate the life of
Maternal Infant Welfare Nurse, Sister Alma Brown. In addition to her valued nursing work within the community, Alma was a keen conservationist, with a strong passion for protecting the native fauna and flora. The 3.3 hectares of picturesque, eucalypt woodland that comprises Brown’s Reserve, is land that Alma used to farm herself. “It was a very real contrast between the Nurse in headgear and trudging around a paddock in overalls, fixing fences and delivering calves,” said nephew Ross Brown, recalling fondly. The site today is a place of passive recreation for the community, and is open daily. There is a helpful information board within the reserve, along with wonderful murals designed by local community groups. Please feel free to come visit.
ELTHAM DISTRICT HISTORICAL SOCIETY
T
he Eltham District Historical Society is a valued organisation within the local community, and this year the small, not-for-profit historical group is celebrating their 50th anniversary. For President Jim Connor, it is a time to celebrate the contributors of the past while creating their own history going forward.
“It takes a number of passionate people to bring this all together, and we have had many passionate people contribute over the years,” says Jim. “Our local history is fantastic. We want to engage with people about this and help them understand we are all a part of it.” This year has seen a large emphasis towards digitisation for the community group, with approximately 5,000 images uploaded over the last six months. In September, their Collections Team won first prize in a Sprint Cataloguing Competition when they uploaded over 3,500 records to the Victorian Collections website. The use of ‘Throwback Thursday’ via the society’s website and social media pages, has helped the organisation connect in a fun way with an even wider audience. “We are really interested in getting information from community members about their early Eltham family,” says Jim. “By providing accessibility for the coming generation, in many ways we are building and leaving a legacy.” The society, based in the historical ‘Justice Precinct’ on 728 Main Road Eltham, not only collects and communicates local history via its webpage and Facebook, it also distributes newsletters to members and holds regular meetings. These newsletters are packed full of interesting historical anecdotes along with listing approaching excursions and coming events. SOURCE REFERENCE: EAST SIDE MAIN ROAD SHOPS FROM LUCK STREET TO DUDLEY STREET. INCLUDES BROWNE’S SELF SERVICE, MILK BAR, DELICATESSEN, CHEMIST, MAC’S MEATS, THOMPSON’S PHARMACY, N.H. BAXTER ESTATE AGENT (FEBRUARY 1968).
Taking advantage of its appealing location, with a historical former police house and courthouse onsite, the society also arranges tours by schools and community groups. Within the courthouse, they have staged mock-trials that leave a lasting impression on many students. One group of school students were so impressed, that they decided to donate the proceeds of their next non-uniform day towards the upkeep of the society. The society has grown over the last fifty years due to the generous support of volunteers and sponsors.
SOURCE REFERENCE: ANSELL & MUIR ELTHAM STORE, OPPOSITE ELTHAM LOWER PARK, MAIN ROAD, SOUTH ELTHAM, C. 1960. WELL KNOWN FOR ITS HOT CHICKEN AND CHIPS.
For it to continue to thrive, please consider donating or becoming a member. See www.elthamhistory.org.au.
SOURCE REFERENCE: (ELTHAM LOCAL HISTORY CENTRE) COURTHOUSE - LOCAL HISTORY CENTRE (FORMER POLICE RESIDENCE) AND FORMER ELTHAM COURTHOUSE (AUGUST 2017)
WHAT’S ON IN
THE DIAMOND VALLEY
A SELECTION OF THE MANY WONDERFUL EVENTS RUNNING IN THE LOCAL AREA OVER THE COMING WEEKS.
SOURCE REFERENCE: CAROLS - BANYULE COUNCIL
SOURCE REFERENCE: CO
BANYULE’S CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT
C
hristmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with Banyule’s Carols by
Candlelight. With the amazing Australian Children’s Choir and Diamond Valley Brass Band performing, it is sure to be another fantastic night of merriment at Ivanhoe Park. The unique sail stage is back again this year and with free face painting, song books and candles available for purchase on the night, the whole family is encouraged to embrace the festive fun. Picnic rugs and hampers are encouraged for this wonderful parkland venue, or choose to take advantage of the additional tasty food truck vendors on the night. Not only will this fantastic event be a great opportunity to connect with others in the community, there will also be a very special guest with Santa making his appearance.
SOURCE REFERENCE: CAROLS - BANYULE COUNCIL
LOCATION IVANHOE PARK, THE BOULEVARD, IVANHOE EAST DATE & TIME SATURDAY 16 DECEMBER 6.30PM - PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES 7.30PM - 9.30PM - STAGE SHOW COST FREE
LOCATION FRIDAY NIGHT WHITTLESEA BOWLS CLUB (7PM ONWARDS) 101 CHURCH STREET WHITTLESEA CHURCH STREET WHITTLESEA SATURDAY (10AM – 4PM) SATURDAY EVENING TWILIGHT CONCERT (4PM – 9PM) WALKER RESERVE LAUREL STREET WHITTLESEA DATE & TIME FRIDAY 9 FEBRUARY 7PM ONWARDS SATURDAY 10 FEBRUARY 10AM – 9PM COST FREE
WHITTLESEA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
T
he Whittlesea Country Music festival is another fantastic event to enjoy this Summer. Run by volunteers in support of the local community, this festival has been going for 15 years and is now an established annual event. The festival runs over the weekend of the 9th and 10th of February, kicking off on Friday evening at the Whittlesea Bowls Club. While Friday evening is a great night to enjoy some wonderful live acts, on Saturday, buskers will be performing along the main street. The Saturday street party will also include Word Weavers reading poetry, along with the always popular animal farm. Twilight Night begins 4pm at Walker Reserve, with more amazing artists performing in this welcoming venue. Rides in the carnival corner and food stalls will also be available here, along with planned fireworks (weather permitting) to feature as a wonderful conclusion to the evening.
NCE: COUNTRY MUSIC - WHITTLESEA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
SOURCE REFERENCE: JAZZ FESTIVAL IMAGES - SIMON FRITH PHOTOGRAPHY
SOURCE REFERENCE: COUNTRY MUSIC - WHITTLESEA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL
SOURCE REFERENCE: JAZZ FESTIVAL IMAGES - SIMON FRITH PHOTOGRAPHY
ELTHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL
T
The Eltham Jazz Festival is back again for 2018 and not a moment too soon. Set in the wonderful, family-friendly location of Eltham Town Square, this fantastic event provides an astonishing array of live music over two days. With five stages of soulful jazz playing over the weekend of the 24th and 25th of February, be prepared for an ensemble of amazing performers between 12pm and 11.30pm on the Saturday, and 11am to 6pm on the Sunday. Voted as one of the Best Jazz Festivals in the World, there will be a wide selection of delicious food, award-winning wines and beers available, as well as free activities for the children. Not only does the program include renowned professional acts, there will also be performances by both Eltham and St Helena High School’s. Please come along to support this fantastic community event.
LOCATION ELTHAM TOWN SQUARE DATE & TIME SATURDAY FEBRUARY 24TH 12:00PM-11:30PM COST FREE
RECENT SALES A SELECTION OF SOLD PROPERTIES
3 Jordan Court Doreen $622,500
16 Dry Creek Drive Plenty – Undisclosed Price
92 Railway Parade Eltham $1,450,000
19 Wolangi Court Greensborough $926,500
34 Crana Grove Greensborough $922,000
2/38 Station Street Montmorency $620,000
20 Outback Drive Doreen $582,000
35 Robins Avenue Humevale $1,020,000
530 Masons Road Mernda $900,000
37 Brownlow Drive Diamond Creek $990,000
637 Kangaroo Ground St Andrews Road Panton Hill – Undisclosed Price
2 Duke Retreat Eltham – Undisclosed Price
15 Tom Roberts Glade Diamond Creek $1,310,500
68 Rosehill Road Lower Plenty $2,287,500
76 Kenmare Street Watsonia $675,000
175 Nicholas Lane Kangaroo Ground $1,805,000
MORRISON KLEEMAN
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Introducing Natalie Lamers to our Property Management Team Agent Profile Natalie Lamers Being a Licensed Estate Agent, with local experience since 2002, Morrison Kleeman are thrilled to have Natalie join their team. Experienced, mature, hardworking and driven, Natalie delivers outstanding service to her clients and exceeds expectations. Natalie Lamers began her real estate career as a receptionist in a small local office at just 18 years of age. She proved to be a natural and was quickly promoted to the property management department managing a large government portfolio. Sixteen years down the track, she is just as excited about real estate as ever. Natalie prides herself on her professionalism, approachable nature and extensive market knowledge. She’s known for being true to her word and highly motivated to go above and beyond for every client. Natalie is a lifelong local with deep understanding of the local area.
There’s a certain buzz in the air at this time of year, as the weather warms up and the property market gets into full swing. Buyers continue to come out of hibernation and snap up properties during the spring selling season. If you’re one of the lucky ones about to make an exciting property purchase, we’d love to help you find a home or investment loan that suits your financial circumstances and goals. Please get in touch! Interest Rate News This month, the Reserve Bank of Australia kept the official cash rate unchanged at 1.5%. The RBA’s decision to hold the cash rate was widely anticipated by economists. In September, some of the major banks lowered interest rates on fixed rate loans, so it
NATALIE LAMERS PROPERTY MANAGER 0419 986 090 nlamers@morrisonkleeman.com.au
could be a good time to speak to us to see if this option works for you. Overall, interest rates remain low and there are some very competitive products out there, so call us if you’d like us to check your home loan features and rate!
Daniel Hustwaite Aqua Financial Services. Phone: ph: 1800 AQUAFS (278 237) Email: dhustwaite@aquafs.com.au 20A Commercial Place, Eltham VIC 3095
MEET
SOME OF OUR PEOPLE What got you started in your real estate career? In 1986 I was turning 30, I had two children under the age of 2 and a new home in Eltham, I thought it would be a great opportunity to work and live in the area. I wanted to be rewarded for all my hard work. What are your hobbies outside of work? Working nearly 6 days a week all my working career I have had little time to spend on hobbies. My spare time is spent with my family, enjoying family holidays. If I did have time to spend on my hobbies they would be motor racing & sailing. How would you describe your dream home? Rammed Earth home with extensive use of glass and timber with stunning views, and must have a pool.
PETER KLEEMAN
DIRECTOR 0419 002 103 pkleeman@morrisonkleeman.com.au
What are three things that attract buyers to Doreen? Buyers are attracted to Doreen because it has affordable brand new homes and all the new infrastructure and facilities soon to be completed in Mernda and Doreen. Last but not least the amazing park life and community feel. What got you started in real estate? I chose real estate as a career because every day is never the same, it is a fast paced fun environment which always keeps me on my toes. Every day I am meeting new people and overcoming new challenges. I find real-estate a very rewarding career and I cannot wait to continue to excel in the future. What do you like to do in your spare time? In my spare time I like to relax and unwind with family and friends to prepare myself for the busy week ahead.
HAYLEY RUEDIN SALES CONSULTANT 0412 722 923 hruedin@morrisonkleeman.com.au
What is your favourite part about working in real estate? Each day is different and you genuinely have the opportunity to help people on a daily basis What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Playing golf, exercising and having a coffee at one of the local cafes! How would you describe your dream home? 1 or 2 acres anywhere in the Diamond Valley. Understated weatherboard on the outside but renovated throughout. Big swimming pool and enough space to put a putting green in. What are your goals for 2018? Having a really strong year with Graham as well as branching out to do more of my own sales and listings.
LACHIE AYLEN
SALES CONSULTANT 0430 709 674 laylen@morrisonkleeman.com.au
What is your advice for anyone starting their career in real estate? Make sure to get a lot of rest and keep a lot of time, (especially after hours or on weekends) free for appointments!
Editorial by : Michael Fraser (Writer) Cover image : Shutterstock Town Square, 20 Commercial Place ELTHAM VIC 3095 Phone 9431 2444 Fax 9431 2650 2/86 Grimshaw Street GREENSBOROUGH VIC 3088 Phone 9435 7666 Fax 9435 7677 3/101 Hazel Glen Drive DOREEN VIC 3754 Phone 9717 8780 Fax 9717 8816
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