Happy and Proud!!!!

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Some very happy people at hockingstuart today!! Helen Yan from hockingstuart Balwyn is Real Estate Business​ a ‘Sales Agents of the Year – Metropolitan’ Finalist – very proud of you Helen. We are also finalists for ‘Best Training and Education Programme’ and ‘Boutique Network of the Year’!!! So excited and proud – well done guys!!!

Latest Market Wrap – Median House Price

Nigel Market Wrap


For the first time, the median house price in Melbourne’s inner suburbs topped $1.1 million over the first quarter of this year. While this is great news for Vendors, affordability issues mean young families and first home Buyers are realigning their expectations and considering inner-city townhouses instead of the traditional family home.

Townhouses haven’t just risen in popularity thanks to the latest series of The Block – there are genuine benefits to the humble dwelling. Townhouses offer low-maintenance, highly secure, compact living. For busy couples, there’s less gardening and cleaning. Typically located close to ‘town’, there’s also less time commuting to work. They also come at an affordable price point for those wanting to live in the inner city.

However, city life and a lack of backyard is not for everyone, especially those who enjoy gardening or backyard cricket. Townhouses typically share walls with their neighbours – so they aren’t for those who like their privacy. There’s potentially additional body corporate fees that come with some developments.

As house prices in the city grow, Buyers will need to decide on the trade-off between property type and location. If you are deciding to challenge the ‘Great Australian Dream’ and opt for an apartment, townhouse or unit, look for properties near parks, communal areas and amenities to ensure your family home has everything you’ll need.

What a result at The Block Auction!!!!!

TheBlockWhat a result at The Block Auction last night! Congratulations to Mark Konishi of hockingstuart South Yarra and Auctioneer extraordinaire David Wood of hockingstuart Albert Park on securing Josh and Charlotte a spectacular result! Great work team. — with Josh and Charlotte.         

Latest Market Wrap – What should you do at an Open For Inspection

Nigel Market Wrap

Last week, hockingstuart witnessed thousands of eager fans attend the public Open For Inspection (OFI) for Josh and Charlotte’s townhouse on The Block, which we have the pleasure of listing.

The occasion reminded us of the importance of the OFI process for all home buyers. Exercising due diligence during this step is key when deciding on what is one of life’s biggest emotional and financial investments – your future home.

So what should you do at an inspection?

Firstly, check all the fixtures and finishes. Inspect for cracks in the wall, test for leaking taps and examine the appliances in the property. Take a measuring tape with you to ensure the space will accommodate your furniture. Remember to also check for the basics like appropriate bathroom ventilation, storage space and laundry facilities.

Feel free to quiz the agent on the dwelling to assess if it meets your current and future needs. For instance, is there off- street parking? Is the property heritage listed? Will you be able to renovate in the future?

If you like the property, request a Section 32 which outlines the terms of sale. And don’t forget to leave your contact details with the agent so they can contact you before the sale. It’s easy to wander through an inspection with rose-coloured glasses but armed with this checklist, you’ll never leave an OFI without the full picture!

hockingstuart in action at the Cubby House Challenge

0166A huge thank you to the following hockingstuart Offices for taking part in the recent Kids Under Cover Cubby House Challenge at the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show, including:

hockingstuart Ivanhoe/Greensborough, St Kilda, Richmond, Northcote, Carnegie and Carlton.

All of those involved did an incredible job in the promotions of their Cubby House and helped to raise an incredible $48,950 for Kids Under Cover.

Check out the incredible photos on the hockingstuart facebook