HOME-GROWN Autumn 2020

HOME-GROWN ALBURY/WODONGA & SURROUNDS

AUTUMN//EDITION

IN THIS ISSUE THE RISE OF SOLAR TECHNOLOGY Welcome to our Autumn 2020 issue of HOME-GROWN. An Albury-Wodonga based Real Estate Magazine, keeping you up-todate with the latest listings and information as well as current local market statistics. In this JAM-PACKED issue, we have included some great tech articles. We also have our quarterly results, some great local businesses and a SMASH-HIT musical coming to the border. We hope you enjoy reading our ninth issue of Home-Grown as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you! Here’s to a great Autumn.

THE FUTURE OF HOME TECHNOLOGY BEST MORTGAGE ADVICE QUARTERLY RESULTS NEW LISTING TENANT OF THE MONTH INTEREST RATE UNCHANGED SHERYLE RETIRES AFTER 25 YEARS LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT WE WILL ROCK YOU ON THE BORDER

P I C T U R E D O N F R O N T - 3 / 5 7 M a r y l a n d W a y, A l b u r y

DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE SOCIAL SNAPS

THE RISE OF SOLAR TECHNOLOGY

THE RISE OF SOLAR TECHNOLOGY IN THE PRESTIGE HOME With a focus on minimising environmental impact, maximising year round comfort and reducing running costs, sustainability has become an integral aspect of a home’s design in the prestige market.

Solar is a clean, renewable source of energy that can help reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower our impact on the natural environment. The process of converting sunlight into electricity using rooftop solar power systems produces zero greenhouse gas emissions.

As concerns about the environment prompt people to shift their thinking, echoing through to the design Australia has the highest uptake of solar globally, of their homes, it is becoming increasingly common with more than 21 percent of homes with rooftop solar systems, according to Energy.gov.au. As for high end homes to include solar technology. demand soars for solar technology, there are a range We spoke with Craig Nicholls who works in the solar of sustainability standards a home can follow, which industry about the benefits of solar technology. He have the potential to provide real benefits to the explained that while the main motivator for installing families living in them and to the environment. solar technology in the home is often saving money, for high end clients there is more weight towards There’s a growing interest from high end clients for minimising their impact on the environment and going further and Craig has noticed a movement towards heat pump technology as an environmentally future proofing for their family. friendly alternative to gas or electric hot water ‘Prestige clients are often the early adopters. They systems. also have electric cars and they are installing more premium systems where the pay back can be quite a As we continue to move towards a more sustainable future and transition away from fossil fuels, bit longer than with solar panels on the roof.’ installing solar and other environmentally friendly technology in the home is an effective step towards future proofing your home for your family.

- LIFESTYLE 2020 (MW)

THE FUTURE OF HOME TECHNOLOGY

THE FUTURE OF HOME TECHNOLOGY From climate controlled beds to mirrors CLIMATE CONTROLLED BED which make sure you’re not wearing the The new Climate360 smart bed has a ducting same outfit twice – we wrap up the system and advanced high airflow technology future of home tech from the Consumer embedded in the mattress to exhaust trapped air.

Through an evaporative cooling process, it provides and Electronics Show 2020.

up to 12 degrees of cooling and can warm your The Consumer and Electronics Show (CES) was bed up to 100 degrees – decreasing the number of held in Las Vegas last week with many companies times you wake up. unveiling their vision for the homes and cities of the future. We’ve selected some of our favourite BEAUTY REFRIGERATOR home appliances from the thousands of products With more beauty products and vitamins requiring refrigeration, Samsung unveiled its super-stylish that were unveiled at the show.

Beauty Cube Refrigerator. It’s been designed for storing toners, lotions and gels vulnerable to heat MEMORY MIRROR The NeSSA mirror debuted new technology that and light like retinol, vitamins and probiotics. If syncs up with your calendar and takes note of what you want to store this next to your bed, the motor you’ve worn each day. If you’re going to a group has been designed to be extremely quiet. meeting, the mirror will even detect if anyone in that meeting has seen your outfit before.

SMART COOKING THERMOMETER Whirlpool launched a probe with sensors that check the temperature of the food and inside the oven. You set the cooking temperature, the type of meat, and how well you want it cooked through an app, and then the app will alert you when the food is ready.

INTELLIGENT YOGA MAT The Yogi-fi pairs with a wearable wristband to give you feedback on your yoga postures and breathing technique. You can enjoy a 270 degree projection view of various nature scenes, gain audio inspiration, listen to soothing music and there’s even aromatherapy dispensers in the mat making this a multi-sensory joy.

- LIFESTYLE 2020 (MW)

THE 5 BEST PIECES OF MORTGAGE ADVICE ONE REAL ESTATE AGENT HAS EVER HEARD

THE 5 BEST PIECES OF MORTGAGE ADVICE They say your home is the biggest investment you’ll ever make. At the heart of that investment, though, is your mortgage. What seems like a simple concept at face value—a loan granted for buying property—is actually much more complicated.

“I got a call from the buyer’s agent, and she said that the buyer changed jobs in the same industry, but was earning $300 less a year—a year. When the bank did their final review of the file, they cancelled the loan,” he explains.

That’s why you’ll hear experts in finance and real estate alike offering their mortgage advice (solicited or not) to first-time home buyers—and anyone who will listen. That can lead to many conflicting takes and a lot of confusion.

Because of that one small change, the buyers had to start the entire process over again.

“It was brutal having to tell this to my sellers,” Belil says. “Don’t let it happen.”

To cut through all that, we spoke to someone who If you have less-than-perfect credit, knows mortgages inside and out from a buyer’s perspective to find out the best pieces of mortgage find a good mortgage broker, not a bank advice they’ve ever heard. Here’s what experienced Banks usually only offer conventional mortgages, real estate agent Zachary Belil of Douglas Elliman while mortgage brokers have access to a variety of in Miami had to say. loan products for people with all kinds of financial histories, Belil explained.

Don’t make any major purchases or change jobs while in the mortgage process This is crucial to remember, Belil says, as major life changes can put your mortgage in jeopardy.

He recalls this affecting a sale where he was the listing agent. The buyers had passed the inspection period, had gotten a loan commitment letter, and were packed and ready to move when the phone rang.

“Your average everyday loan officer at your bank gets a paycheck every two weeks whether you get the loan or not,” he adds.

On the other hand, a good mortgage broker will get creative and work hard to secure that loan for you as a potential buyer because “If they don’t get you the mortgage, they don’t get paid,” he says.

Make sure your agent is present when the lender’s appraiser comes to do the appraisal.

The appraisal is a very important part of the loan That’s why the first thing any agent will ask a process, because if you want a loan for a $500,000 potential buyer is if they have their letter in hand. house, the lender needs to see that the property is If they do, it’s a green-light to start house hunting. worth that much, Belil says. “[Your agent should] be at the property the day the appraisal takes place to meet the appraiser and show him or her the special details of the house,” he says. They should bring along their own set of recent comparable sales, or comps, to prove the home’s value.

Resist the urge to take a break The loan application process is complicated, and people often become overwhelmed while gathering all the documents they’re asked for, Belil says.

“Sometimes, they’ll get very frustrated and decide to give it a rest for a few days,” he says. “As an If the home doesn’t appraise for the selling price, agent, I can’t let that happen.” either you, the buyer, will have to pay the difference in cash, or the seller will have to lower the selling There are critical dates on purchase contracts price to match the appraisal. that must be met, so the agent has to work with the buyer to keep things moving and make sure “Neither is good,” he says. their mortgage broker or banker is getting all the information they need to process the application.

Don’t start house-hunting without a mortgage pre-approval letter

If a potential buyer doesn’t have a pre-approval letter—which is a letter from a lender stating the type and amount of loan they can qualify for—they simply aren’t prepared to purchase a home and thus shouldn’t be using an agent at all, he says.

“Why would you spend any amount of time showing properties to a potential client that can’t pay?”

- by Chelsea Greenwood Lassman (APARTMENT THERAPY)

QUARTERLY RESULTS

QUARTERLY RESULTS

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NEW LISTING Luxurious Family Property 2 6 5 8 R I V E R I N A H I G H WAY, S P L I T T E R S C R E E K

AUCTION SATURDAY 21ST MARCH AT 10:30AM LACHLAN HUTCHINS 0457 888 212 JACK STEAN 0434 588 664

3

5

TENANT OF THE MONTH

ELEVATOR CREATIVE 101/503 Dean Street (Entry via AMP lane) 0447 374 101 Monday-Friday 9-5pm. Sat/Sun by appt. www.elevatorcreative.com.au

Although we are known as food and drink branding specialists we regularly take on clients outside of this niche.

WHO WE ARE Elevator’s Creative Director, Chris Meyer, was born and raised in Melbourne, and ships with both journalism and tourism degrees. Chris has started and run many niche and award winning print publications, has spoken internationally on design, and has strong and insightful branding and brand building experience. He has been Creative Director for several large Melbourne studios and comes to the region with over 20 years design experience and a passion for food and drink (and cars).

“Elevator Creative is a fresh, fun, full service creative agency housed within the iconic T&G Building.

We specialise in standout strategy, creative and digital for organisations, brands and individuals that care about the way they look, feel and impact society. For over 20 years, we have helped solve communications problems and deliver real results for socially-minded brands by changing behaviour Albury native, senior designer, Bree Dinsdale adds and creating conversation.” local knowledge and a strong corporate graphic - Chris Meyer, Creative Director design background to the team - having graduated from the prestigious Billy Blue College of Design WHAT WE DO and having worked at some Global heavyweight Design Auditing + Consulting agencies including Ogilvy and Ideaworks (Y&R) on Branding Packages accounts as diverse as Vodaphone and Aldi.

Print + Packaging Design + Conceptual Mockups Web Sites and Stores Let’s chat over how we can help you and your Content Creation (web/social) business level up!

Measurement + Analytics

INTEREST RATE UNCHANGED

RBA keeps rates on hold but should cut rates again in the next few months

As the cash rate approaches its lowest possible point of 0.25 per cent, the RBA should consider implementing smaller rate cuts of 10 or 15 basis The Reserve Bank has kept the official interest rate points, rather than the standard 25 basis point unchanged at 0.75 per cent at its first meeting of movements.

2020.

The property price rebound that began mid-last But this is just a pause in the rate-cutting cycle year has been more rapid than expected, and recent that began last June. To boost the economy and price data shows that the rebound accelerated at generate jobs growth, the RBA needs to cut the the end of the year. cash rate further – and that’s highly likely over coming months in a bid to push unemployment to The turnaround has been fastest in Melbourne and Sydney, and prices have continued to rise in Hobart. below 4.5 per cent.

But the recovery is spreading to other capital cities, The RBA stated in its decision that “it is reasonable with prices rising across most capital cities in the to expect that an extended period of low interest second half of 2019. rates will be required in Australia to reach full employment and achieve the inflation target”.

The RBA’s three rate cuts, and the expectation of lower rates for an extended period, have pushed The current situation has put the RBA in a tight up prices. Market sentiment and price expectations spot: interest rates need to be lower but more cuts rose in the second half of 2019, with more people will contribute to property prices rising further this looking to buy. year, creating affordability problems and increasing household debt.

by Trent Wiltshire - (DOMAIN RESEARCH)

SHERYLE RETIRES AFTER 25 YEARS AT STEAN NICHOLLS

After my 25 year journey at Stean Nicholls I have decided to retire to undertake a new experience in life.

I have very much enjoyed my working career at Stean Nicholls and have made and developed many ongoing relationships with valued clients and work colleagues that will stay close to my heart forever.

Building a portfolio of quality properties brought me much gratitude and satisfaction. The many experiences and changes in the industry have always kept me on my toes. One of the learning experiences I accomplished was studying to gain my full agents license a few years ago – this broadened my outlook and complemented the Real Estate business.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the numerous many friends I have made through my working life. I am humbled by their loyalty and ongoing respect – it is greatly appreciated.

I wish the company well into the future and look forward to continued favourable reports from the Stean Nicholls group, trusting that the relationships I have developed, can be ongoing under Emma Clements who assumes my responsibility.

- Sheryle Hague

The staff at Stean Nicholls wish Sheryle all the best for the future.

Sheryle has been an integral part of the team over the last 25 years - and has been the longest serving member.

She will be greatly missed around the office!

LOCAL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

Temperance and General - Albury’s original laneway bar! Mixing the history of the building with a modern vibe has created a hidden delight. Be in the heart of Albury without being seen.

Serving everything that you would expect to find in a bar! Showcasing local wines and Gins and an ever growing selection of Cocktails to give the taste buds something special.

Food entails a Tapas style menu to share.

Trading is Wednesday & Thursday 4pm - 11pm & Friday & Saturday 4pm - 1am.

Live Music from the local talent pool is on display in the unique surrounds of the lane.

An intimate function venue for functions from 20 through to 100.

hello@temperanceandgeneral.com.au @temperanceandgeneral AMP Lane, Albury NSW

WE WILL ROCK YOU ON THE BORDER Victorian Theatre Guild award winner, Jonathon Gardner, is set to call the Border home for the next three months as he stars in Centre Stage Event Company’s production of We Will Rock You – The Musical By Queen & Ben Elton.

breakouts with the likes of Charissa Wade & Mali McKie who are going to blow audiences away.

Visually, it will be unlike anything Albury/Wodonga has seen before.”

Not to be missed, We Will Rock You is a hilarious The Geelong local, who won the prestigious award futurist comedy featuring more than 24 of Queen’s for his performance as Galileo in We Will Rock You biggest hit songs including We Are The Champions, is set to reprise his role as the stage show hits the Radio Ga Ga, I Want To Break Free, Somebody To Albury Entertainment Centre from the end April.

Love, Killer Queen, Don’t Stop Me Now, Under Pressure, Bohemian Rhapsody, Another One Bites Since 2002, over 15 million theatregoers in 17 The Dust and of course, We Will Rock You! countries have been thrilled by this musical based on the songs of Queen and a book by Ben Two of our staff will be performing in this Elton. “I’m pumped to be a part of this amazing epic musical - Chantelle Hutchins and Rachel production,” says Gardiner. “We Will Rock You is a Habermann - WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE IT! spectacular stage show that any Queen or musical fan will love. I’m thrilled to be able to share it with Centre Stage Event Company the people of The Border.”

& 105.7 Triple M present

Gardner will be joined by a stellar cast of rock stars including local performers Dianne McKie, Nikki Strauss, Simon Goss & John Parry.

Director, Tim McLaren, says the show is high energy with first class choreography and vocal performances. “This is the best cast of musical talent that the region has ever seen. Along with the seasoned performers, we also have some

WE WILL ROCK YOU

The Musical by Queen & Ben Elton Albury Entertainment Centre April 23rd – May 2nd Tickets available through the Albury Entertainment Centre

DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE

As the selling season for 2020 heats up into the Autumn months, we look forward to what has been a positive real estate climate so far this year. The economy is healthy and interest rates are more likely to fall rather than rise this year. Despite all of the media speculation of a downturn due to the natural disasters and coronavirus that have occurred over the summer months, we have experienced many properties performing better than expected in the New Year. The major cities have experienced some positive results and clearance rates at auction are up in 2020, this provides excellent opportunities for people to upgrade their properties. It must be remembered that property is a long-term investment and areas such as Central Albury with its proximity to schools, transport and shopping villages and its leafy streets will always be in high demand. People still need to buy and sell for the usual reasons and will continue to do so. But in markets such as this, when properties have the capability to sell well above reserve, it is increasingly important to have an agent on your side who is a strong negotiator trying to maximise your price.

Over the past six months we have found that properties are selling quickly and have less time in the marketplace, particularly in central areas. This combined with lower stock levels has produced a very competitive market in Albury/Wodonga. Adjustments

in marketing expectations have been necessary both for buyers and sellers, as well as real estate agents.

Outdated methods will not hold true in a changing market and we have relished the opportunity to lead the market and find improved ways of doing things.

Our digital marketing strategy, and detailed database matching system has led to marked increases in online activity and consequently, the best possible outcomes for our sellers. With the autumn market about to commence, we predict demand for well-presented and well-positioned homes in the Albury/Wodonga region and that these homes will perform strongly with the new market conditions for 2020.

Geoff Stean 0413 888 788 geoff@steannicholls.com.au

Nicholas Clark 0439 215 293 nicholas@steannicholls.com.au

Jack Stean 0434 588 664 jack@steannicholls.com.au

Lachlan Hutchins 0457 888 212 lachlan@steannicholls.com.au

SOCIAL SNAPS

Stean Nicholls walking club enjoying a lovely evening stroll after work.

SOLD AT AUCTION - 754 Fellowes Crescent, Albury - A fantastic result.

SOLD AT AUCTION - 422 Heath Street, East Albury.

Nick, Jess and Michelle take part in the Hume Bank City2City Run/Walk.

Two of Stean Nicholls staff are preparing to perform in We Will Rock You in April/May 2020.

Some of the Stean Nicholls staff attend The Fire Fight Concert at ANZ Stadium in Sydney.

Home-Grown is a Stean Nicholls publication. All opinions are our own. Compilation of statistical data relies on information from a number of external sources.

Copyright Š

Unit 1, Suite 19, 669 Dean Street, Albury 02 6021 5233 www.steannicholls.com.au

/steannicholls @steannicholls