Abercromby's Real Estate had the privilege to launch the eagerly awaited new book from author Stephen Crafti, Architects' Houses, at the recently opened bookshop by Corrie Perkin.

As you have probably deduced, the book takes a look into the often private and very fascinating way in which the people that have designed some of Australia's most prominent houses choose to live.

The night featured a Q and A with Stephen (author of over 40 design, fashion and architecture books) and Philip Goad (featured architect and Professor of Architecture at The University of Melbourne) hosted by Corrie.

Marketed as one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most celebrated properties, the circa 1887 building was last on the market in 2012 but a buyer was unable to be found.

It is listed with Abercromby’s to sell via private auction.

http://www.geelongadvertiser.com.au/realestate/historic-queenscliff-hotel-is-on-the-market-again/story-fnjy87eo-1227222595655

Interesting read in The New York Times, quoting our very own Jock Langley
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/29/realestate/real-estate-in-australia.html?_r=0#

On the 27th July, our team will be running in support of SecondBite. We’re not all athletes in here, so those who can’t run will participate in the 5 km walk that RUN Melbourne also offers on the day.

We’d really appreciate your help in supporting SecondBite – Every little bit helps!
http://bit.ly/1qEj9av

After recently joining Abercromby’s, Licensed Estate Agent Sam Goddard caught up with journalist Nicole Brooks to discuss his life away from the office and his passion for real estate.

As soon as I struck up my conversation with Sam Goddard, bystanders would have most certainly had the impression that we were close friends who were catching up rather than people who had just met minutes earlier.

Immediately engaging and keen to discuss a wide range of topics, Sam lights up when talking about his upbringing in Geelong. The son of a successful small business family with franchise interests in Subway and Muzz Buzz Drive-Thru Coffee, he learnt from an early age about the dedication and hard work required to achieve ongoing success.

When he was 14, Sam’s parents decided to sell the family home and met with a local real estate agent. The agent’s confidence and good nature made a massive impression on Sam who promptly decided that he wanted to be in real estate.

At 19 he set the wheels in motion but not before a brief foray into a marketing degree. He quickly realised that if he wanted to pursue his passion for real estate then he should go directly to the source and get a job in the industry. Ever since then he has remained committed to consistently developing his knowledge, keen to provide the latest information and resources to his clients.

When time permits, Sam heads down to the Bellarine Peninsula to spend time with his family. He appreciates the gently paced lifestyle, especially at Point Lonsdale and Barwon Heads where he regularly plays golf. He is also a bit of a foodie who is always ready to experience new and exciting dining experiences in the city and suburbs.

Sam tells me that he was born to sell; that he derives so much pleasure from building rapport and strong relationships. To me this is abundantly clear – we’ve talked about everything, from my kids to his exercise routine and everything in-between.

Right now, he is in his element – selling a luxurious warehouse development in Fitzroy. Recently achieving a strong result of $2.6 million, there would be no doubt that Sam’s 14 year-old-self would be very pleased

The renovation of East View, a grand Victorian mansion in Malvern East,
Victoria, was never going to be easy. But for Janene Young and her
family it was a challenge they were willing to take.

An interior designer by profession, Janene Young was the perfect candidate to manage the immense task of renovating East View – her company Inhabiting Flair specialises in “transforming private homes into welcoming and comfortable spaces that suit modern day living without foregoing the character and integrity of the traditional features that anchor and give soul to the residence,” she explains. But the huge overhaul was always going to be a big commitment in time, funds, energy and emotion.

Built in 1894, East View is an expansive two-storey Victorian home located in the Gascoigne Estate in Malvern East. The Young’s purchased the property in 1999 and began the renovation two years later, which would be done in two major stages and eventually completed in 2009.

To read the full article see “The Period Home Renovator Buyer’s Guide 2013″.

For Anna Young, daughter of entertainer Johnny Young, the “wow” factor was important when designing a house for her family, but so was the need to create something functional.

“We also really thought about the kids a lot in the process,” says Ms Young, who has four children under 10.

Owner of the Johnny Young Talent School in Richmond, she and her husband, builder Andrew Kenneally, bought the then “derelict” property at 24 Prentice Street in Elsternwick five years ago and overhauled it. The two-storey house has four bedrooms, living and dining areas, opening to a deck adjoining a pool. For auction on August 17 at 11.30am. Sam Goddard and Jock Langley of Abercromby’s, are quoting $1.45 million-plus.

Source : Domain

Upmarket downsizing

John Simkiss – a former partner at Potter Partners and senior executive at Telstra Super – and his wife Rae are downsizing from their Armadale townhouse.

The modern two-storey house at 29a Adelaide Street features four first-floor bedrooms and multiple ground-floor living spaces, including a back family and meals area and a separate study. There’s also a double garage.

The house goes to auction on August 3 at 11.30am and Tim Derham, of Abercromby’s, is quoting $2.5 million-plus.

Source : Domain

At Abercromby’s, we are delighted to welcome two experienced Stonnington & Boroondara experts, Simon Hicks and Hugh Hardy, onto the team.

Simon’s stellar career in residential real estate commenced in 2000, he has forged an outstanding reputation based on his ability to take clients’ property ambitions from the desired outcome stage to the reality of the delivered result. Immediately approachable and genuinely friendly, Simon’s track record over a sustained period confirms the importance of putting people first.

Hugh’s exceptional career in real estate commenced in 1993. With a major focus on exceeding customers’ expectations. Hugh has built up a wonderful client base that is exceptionally loyal. Hugh’s hard working ethic and friendly demeanour means outstanding results for his clients.

We are assured of the continued growth and success at Abercromby’s with the addition of both Simon and Hugh to the sales team.

The former South Yarra home of prolific mid-20th century society architect Marcus Martin will be auctioned at 12.30pm on April 27.

The property, 240 Walsh Street, was built by Martin, who died in 1981, as his residence about 1935.

Previously listed for private sale, the property comes with an Edna Walling-designed walled garden and a central feature pond designed by Ola Cohn.

Jock Langley, of Abercromby’s, is quoting $2 million-plus.

‘Sunnyside’  c1864 is currently available for sale by Tender, closing 5pm on Tuesday 30th April 2013.

We thought we should advise you in case you know of anybody keen to move into the surrounding area.

Should you have any queries about this property, or any other real estate matter please do not hesitate to contact:

Jock Langley  0419 530 008

Pollster and serial mayoral candidate Gary Morgan is about to list his historic East Melbourne mansion in George Street, which will be aimed at international buyers.

The chairman of Roy Morgan Research has picked a new home in the area, spending $5,155,000 to get a 14-room Victorian villa on Powlett Street about a fortnight ago.

Morgan had to pay $780,000 above the reserve to take ”Claverings” at the hotly contested auction.

The two-storey Victorian he is selling was designed by famed architect Charles Webb in 1864 and is considered to be one of the best houses in East Melbourne.

The property at 193 George Street has seven bedrooms, two reception rooms, a drawing room, two studies, three kitchens, 18th-century marble fireplaces, marble floors and cedar doors. There’s also a coach house with a self-contained apartment.

Jock Langley of Abercromby’s is believed to be targeting international buyers in a sales campaign that will run until late April. Nobody associated with the property wants to talk price, but industry sources say the starting point is likely to be about $10 million.

‘I won’t sell if I don’t get the right price,” Mr Morgan tells Private Property. ”I think when people see it they will realise it’s one of Melbourne’s best homes.”

Source : Domain March 9, 2013

The 2013 residential market has jumped out of the blocks. Large numbers at our open for inspections and multiple bidding at our auctions. With confirmed low interest rates and the stock market increasing by 17% since November 2012, we have seen a lot of confidence from buyers and vendors meeting their expectations.
Several top end sales we have sold “off market” include:

• 21 Denbigh Road, Armadale.
• 17 Union Street, Armadale.
• 114 Vale Street, East Melbourne.
• 21 Vincent Street, Glen Iris.

We have some quality luxury and lifestyle homes on the market including:

• 186 Burke Road, Glen Iris.
• 23 Wangaratta Street, Richmond.
• 348 Bay Street, Port Melbourne.
• 20 Normanby Place, Richmond.
• 4 Devorgilla Avenue, Toorak.
• 9& 10 Lisbuoy Court, Toorak.
• 70 Sutherland Road, Armadale.
• 150 Finch Street, Glen Iris.
• 45 Lyndhurst Street, Richmond.
• 12 Davis Avenue, Kew.
• “Sunnyside” George Street, East Melbourne.

To learn more about the market or to discuss your property needs – whether it be buying,selling or renting – please feel free to contact us on 9864 5300.

348 Bay Street, Port Melbourne is scheduled for auction this Saturday 2nd March at 10.30am.
Prior to the auction, the property will be open Saturday from 10.00am. Should you have any queries about this property, or any other real estate matter please do not hesitate to contact:

Sam Goddard  0448 870 454
Jock Langley  0419 530 008

2 Melrose St Mont Albert North is scheduled for auction this Saturday 2nd March at 10.30am.
Prior to the auction, the property will be open Saturday from 10.00am. Should you have any queries about this property, or any other real estate matter please do not hesitate to contact:

Jeff Gole  0419 401 677
Andrew Harlock  0419 379 992

23 Wangaratta Street, Richmond is scheduled for Private Auction on Wednesday 6th March.
We thought we should give you prior notice in case you know of anybody keen to move into the surrounding area.
Should you have any queries about this property, or any other real estate matter please do not hesitate to contact:

Jock Langley  0419 530 008
Sam Goddard  0438 334 374

12 Davis Street, Kew is currently available for private sale.
The property will be open for inspection:
Thurs 28th Feb 1.00 to 1.30pm.
Sat 2nd March 2.00 to 2.30pm.
Should you have any queries about this property, or any other real estate matter please do not hesitate to contact: Jeff Gole  0419 401 677

How much do outsiders really pay in world cities?

A 4,000 sq ft townhouse in Brooklyn   The notion that a high net worth individual can swagger into any city in the world and buy a property with few obstacles to overcome has taken a knock recently.
Singapore has hit foreigners with higher duty, while those buying top-end London homes will soon face a hefty annual charge. Similar measures are in place or under debate elsewhere as governments try to deflate market bubbles or ensure everyone – yes, even the wealthy – pays more tax to pay off budget deficits.
We have analysed eight world cities where HNWIs congregate. Using data from property consultancy Savills, based on the purchase of notional £2m pieds-à-terre, it is clear that buying processes vary widely but one common denominator exists: ownership is less straightforward and more costly now than in the recent past.   Then we deserted rigorous research and instead blended subjective views on climate, lifestyle and reputation to award star ratings to our contenders.

1. SHANGHAI
Foreigners may buy only one home for personal use, so long as they have an employment contract or past tax record. One further property may be bought for investment.
A buyer pays a deposit of up to £52,000 for a home above £1.02m; after 15 days, 30 per cent of the agreed price is paid and a sale and purchase agreement signed. The buyer may then seek a mortgage from a Chinese bank but agents say most international deals are in cash. The purchase must be agreed by the Shanghai Real Estate Transaction Center. Buyers pay up to £60,000 stamp duty but have no ongoing ownership taxes.   “The Chinese growth story has helped push up prime residential prices 10.8 per cent in 2012 and 42 per cent over five years. This is despite government policies to cool the market,” says Nicholas Holt of Knight Frank.

2. HONG KONG
Residential prices are sky high and so are transaction costs. Legal fees on a £2m apartment would be £3,255 and the purchaser’s share of estate agency fees £20,000. Another big cost is 15 per cent stamp duty on foreign purchases – £300,000 on a £2m property.
Different taxes apply if properties are bought and sold rapidly: this can push stamp duty to 20 per cent. An annual tax is levied, calculated as 8 per cent of notional rental value, whether or not the property is occupied; for a £2m home this is £2,500.   The Index of Economic Freedom league table based on 10 free enterprise criteria puts Hong Kong at the top but the housing market has been hard to tame.   “Low interest rates, limited supply and abundant liquidity create perfect conditions for a bubble. It’s hoped buyers’ stamp duty will curtail rapid rises. Sought-after areas include the Peak and Southside on Hong Kong Island, parts of Kowloon and the New Territories,” says Savills’ Simon Smith.

3. SINGAPORE
Outsiders buy without restriction only on Sentosa Island but require consent, considered case-by-case, anywhere on mainland Singapore. Since December foreigners permitted to buy must pay an extra 10 per cent duty in addition to the sliding-scale purchase levy.
This means buying a £2m property incurs £359,000 in duty plus £1,900 in legal fees. If it’s sold within a year there is an extra 16 per cent seller’s stamp duty. The annual occupancy charge – whether you occupy the place or not – is £5,140.
Singapore has avoided recession, despite weak manufacturing performance. “Prices are expected to remain firm despite cooling measures [thanks to] high liquidity and savings, a low-interest environment, strong balance sheet of developers and a very stable social and investment climate,” says Darren Wang of Cushman & Wakefield real estate consultancy.

4. MELBOURNE
Overseas buyers wanting an existing home must win hard-fought consent from the Foreign Investment Review Board. But they can buy brand new homes with relatively few restrictions, or buy vacant land or an established property to demolish and replace with a new one subject to planning consent.
Stamp duty on a £2m home would be £110,000 and another £7,000 covers administrative, legal and survey fees. There are no ongoing occupancy taxes.   “Toorak, Hawthorn and Camberwell [affluent suburbs] are popular with foreigners. We’re seeing commercial sites demolished to make way for residential towers sold offshore, principally to Malaysian, Singaporean and Chinese,” says Clinton Baxter of Savills.

Source and read more : Financial Times

The residential property market finished 2012 in a positive mood.
Several top end sales of $10 million plus were made (Abercromby’s included) and this contributed to a filtering effect through the market place.

We feel the momentum gained in the last quarter of 2012 should continue for the first quarter of 2013.We have already listed some quality homes to offer for auction in the first quarter, so keep an eye on our website.

As 2013 is a Federal election year, historically markets go into a major slow down six weeks before the election date. So if you are considering selling, the first quarter should be a good one.

To learn more about the market or to discuss your property needs – whether it be buying or selling please feel free to contact us on 98645300.

We’ve been busy over the holidays refreshing the Abercromby’s brand. We’ve kept the things that people have always loved – the colours, the simplicity and our personal, distinctive view on exclusive property marketing – and will be introducing the brand to the market in the coming weeks. You’ll still be able to recognise us – we’ve simply evolved to reflect the sophistication and success of our growing business.

The rebrand stays true to what we’ve always promised our clients – that Abercromby’s is a distinctive Luxury & Lifestyle brand for discerning people, who don’t want their property to be ‘just another listing’ or marketed like everybody else. The brand will help your property get recognised and remembered for all the right reasons, and communicate in a manner that’s professional, personal and beyond expectation to vendors and buyers alike.

So over the coming weeks, keep your eye out as we launch our new look.