2020: a year in review

It’s hard to believe that we are coming to the end of another year when, in many ways, it feels like we are still just starting 2020.

The Melbourne property market has experienced a number of ‘firsts’ this year.  Some of the bigger firsts include:

  • first total lockdown (no physical inspections)
  • first only ‘one on one’ inspections
  • first ban on public auctions
  • first ‘online’ auctions

The media sensationally suggested the market would crash, anywhere from 10%-40%, depending on what you were reading.

We didn’t see it. 

Many Melburnians remained confident to both buy and/or sell.

The good properties, with realistic vendors, saw continued strong results. Our auction (when they returned) clearance rates were consistently above 70% and the last two weeks have been over 80%.

We saw a number of new buyers enter the market. Our forced lockdowns, for those lucky enough to remain employed, resulted in incomes being saved and not spent. Overseas holidays were cancelled; in fact, nearly all holidays were cancelled. Less money was spent on food and entertainment. Forced savings perhaps, but the results were the same and, for some, the savings were enough to take that first step into the property market.

Not everything sold though. A number of vendors (many with homes that came with some challenges) campaigned in search for a ‘dream’ price, well above the market, and will no doubt have some time over Summer now to reflect on whether they want to remain in their properties for 2021 or meet the market and move on with their lives and plans.

 

What does this mean for 2021?

 

We believe the 2020 year has resulted in buyers making more considered choices around where they want to live and how the house will work for them. Changes to lifestyle, including working from home, have identified some flaws in the modern floorplan. While open plan is good, breakaway rooms offering privacy and silence for meetings/calls make it much easier for larger families living under the one roof.

We are hoping the recent results will encourage more vendors to sell. If low numbers remain, it is likely the supply/demand scale will also remain, with demand, particularly for the good ones, resulting in competitive auctions and strong results.

Being optimistic, for younger/first home buyers, we may see an increase in properties in the second quarter. New tenancy legislation (postponed during Covid) is due to come into effect from 29 March 2021, with some changes around mandatory requirements for homes being tenanted. Depending on the condition of homes, some vendors may opt to sell their properties rather than undertake works to make them compliant, providing more choices for buyers.

In general, though, unless we see more instability, the market is likely to take off where it has finished up. 

As an Independent service which prides itself in only offering Buyer Advocacy real estate services, our best advice for buyers as they start their search in 2021 is be prepared. Have a plan and have your finances sorted, because if the right house comes up, it would be a shame to miss it because you weren’t prepared.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Merry Christmas, a wonderful break with your families and a safe entry into the New Year.

Melbourne property market making up for lost time

Off the back of a few weeks of 70% plus auction clearance rates, the property market in Melbourne is humming along nicely. In some cases, prices are surpassing historical records. The auction system is working well for the experienced agents and, as a general rule, the scales seem to be tilted in the favour of the seller – if the property is correctly priced.

Many agents have commented that when a new property lists, it is inundated with enquiry and inspection requests the first week.  If the buyer isn’t in that first enquiry mix, the property is more likely to take quite a while to sell.

Ready to move in homes are driving market success. Houses don’t have to be perfect in terms of current renovation, but they need to have a good floorplan with the right mix of rooms and good outdoor spaces. 

The desire to have one large open plan living area is not quite as high on the list as it previously may have been. COVID-19 lockdown has proven that breakaway rooms and studies are required for a family to function effectively for a long period of time in the home particularly if there are a number of parties needing privacy for calls or zoom meetings.  Bedrooms work to an extent for separation; however, it can become quite depressing if you are resigned to being in your bedroom all day and night.

Hampton, a market that has been particularly strong and forgiving of properties’ faults for many years now, faltered over the weekend. A number of properties advertised with ranges inside $2-2.5million were auctioned and passed in – 40 May Street, 122 Linacre Road, 108 Ludstone Street and 35 David Street (David sold later). Why? We think the homes had compromises – on offer were a mix of homes with orientation, slope, mixed levels, busy road and narrow road issues. Most needed more money spent on them to improve in some way. 

We mentioned in our June blog https://www.woledgehatt.com.au/20-june-2020/ that buyers were making decisions around lifestyle, in particular relocating to more rural areas such as the Mornington Peninsula, as working from home looked like becoming more acceptable post-COVID-19 and into the future.

It appears that the same decisions may also be being made more locally by buyers still wishing to stay closer to family, schools, work etc. However, this is more around the offering of the home itself rather than the position first. 

Highett has been considered the more affordable suburb to Hampton. 21 Haynes Street auctioned on the weekend. The property offered a quiet street, pretty façade, single-storey living, good bedroom separation, multiple living zones plus a study, along with a pool and outdoor entertaining area. While the Hampton properties struggled to find a bidder collectively on the weekend, 21 Haynes attracted six bidders, pushing the price to $2.1 million.

A similar property in Carnegie, not quite as current but with an equally functional floorplan, saw four bidders push the price to $2 million. 

We are not saying these properties were poorly located. On the contrary, both were in good positions with an easy walk to local shops and the station. What we have noticed, however, is that some buyers are choosing the better home in the slightly lower priced suburb over the suburb first. 

On the building front, renovations are becoming more expensive, often with unknown surprise expenses once you start. Of course, good planning and advice is key to avoiding surprises – many people we hear set off on the wrong foot (i.e. are poorly advised) and therefore fall into big trouble many months on. With the possible future economic uncertainty, quantified amounts seem to be preferred, particularly in certain price brackets. And it pays to get good advice from a qualified architect.

What do we expect for the rest of the year? We think a slow down as we edge closer to Christmas – but that may not be until December 24! Since the market resumed, agents have had to change how they manage their time. Private inspections and then strict number limits have meant many more hours have been spent at properties (compared with the typical 2 x 30 minute set times of the past), leaving less time to focus or the need to work longer hours to get everything done. The recent buying activity has meant more sellers looking to ‘test’ the market through a soft campaign (i.e. digital only). Traditionally, many agents like to be spending the next few weeks selling what is already on the market and with far fewer sales for this time of the year, compared with previous years, it is likely many will look to put 2020 behind them, and launch in early 2021. That’s not to say there won’t be any off-markets now; we have bought four in the past five days. Two were completely ‘off market’, the other two via a ‘blast email’ from the agency database. There are opportunities out there, you just need to know where to look and who to ask.

 

Some of the better properties currently on the market; an architect’s view

12 Sorrett Avenue Malvern – Abby Innes / James Tomlinson, Marshall White

18 Pasadena Avenue Beaumaris – Alex Schiavo / Eleisha Doherty, Kay & Burton

 

‘Off-market’ Properties:

  • Californian Bungalow looking for update, over 1,000sqm, Malvern East – circa $3m
  • Two storey family home with north rear, ~700sqm, Malvern – early $3m
  • Brick Edwardian, ~600sqm, north rear, Malvern – high $3m
  • Updated Victorian weatherboard, single level, Malvern East – circa $2.4m
  • 1940s single level, family home, ~520sqm, Elwood – circa early $3m
  • Double fronted Victorian, single level, Canterbury – circa high $3m
  • Californian Bungalow with a north rear, Hampton – circa high $2m
  • Hawthorne brick, 2 storey Victorian, ~1500sqm, Hawthorn – circa $10m
  • Victorian single fronter, 2-1-0, north-west rear, St Kilda – circa $1.3m
  • Family home, corner position, overlooking park, Sandringham – circa $2.3m
  • Large art deco home over two levels, Brighton – circa high $4m
  • Modern family home with pool, Brighton East – circa $3m
  • Californian Bungalow, near central park, Malvern East – circa $3m
  • Contemporary family home, good land, pool, Hampton – circa early $3m

Where to from here for the property market?

It feels like we have reached a juxtaposition where nothing is changing yet things are changing (finally). History may show that this period we’ve experienced in the property market will never happen again. Is this best for buyers or sellers? Time will tell.

Auctions can now take place outside with a maximum number of 10 persons, plus the agents and vendors involved in the sale. When the limit of 10 is filled, agencies are then using online portals to accommodate additional bidders. Will this radically change the way property is transacting at the moment?

While many agents are commenting on how much they are enjoying one-on-one inspections, others are mentally exhausted as they stand on one property for sometimes three or four hours or more as they allow individual 15-minute inspections to take place, one after another. As a buyer, you need to be super-organised, and for many properties 15 minutes just isn’t long enough to view the home, so buyers are needing to come back multiple times, or, in some cases, they are just finding it all too hard and moving on.

For some buyers, they are discovering that there are vendors happy to negotiate and sell before all the interested buyers have even inspected the home. As a buyer, it could be heartbreaking to find out the property you had been waiting for is going to sell before you’ve even had a chance to inspect it. Who would buy a home unseen? Well, some people have…

Agents are saying there are a number of new buyers to the market since this most recent lockdown. Some are ‘hot’ to buy; however, there are also a number of agents who have commented that some buyers are taking advantage of home inspections to get out of the house. Others are future vendors checking out, for their own interest, what similar properties are worth.

As a buyer, it is important to be front-of-mind with the agents; however, to do this you are likely to need to disclose a lot more information about yourself, your budget, your potential to sell (if you buy) etc. than you would have done pre-Covid. You may even need to provide finance approval documentation. This may not necessarily be in your best interest as a buyer, particularly if you are the only party interested in a property, but withholding information may result in missing out on some homes for sale, particularly ones for sale quietly.

Asking prices are also harder to judge. Many quiet properties are asking for ‘high’ prices, well above what makes sense. Others, however, are very reasonable. As a buyer, knowing the market you are buying in is even more important, as the ‘social proof’ provided by ‘open for inspections’ and ‘public auctions’ of the past is not currently available.

Where to from here? With restrictions easing, we will see more properties come on the market publicly and, due to limited time running in to Christmas, we will see auctions take place on days (possibly mid-week evenings) other than Saturday, which is the traditional auction day in Melbourne.

Large numbers of off market homes are also likely to remain until the end of the year. It’s easy to get caught up in the romance of an ‘off market’ but many of these homes can be overpriced or have other concerns. Due diligence is important when considering off market properties.

Finally, with interest rates remaining low and finance possibly becoming easier to obtain in the new year, combined with no real pressures (yet) for vendors to sell, a shortage of quality stock will likely remain the issue for buyers.

 

Properties we like currently on the market; an architect’s view 

28 Claremont Avenue Malvern – Simon Curtain/Hamish Palmer-Hill, Abercromby’s

54-56 Bamfield Street Sandringham – Greg Downes/Campbell Cooney, Hodges

 

Some of the better ‘Off-market’ Properties we have been privy to:

  • Contemporary family home, adjoining park, Brighton East – circa $3.3m
  • Large modern family home with basement, Brighton East – circa $5.2m
  • Edwardian home on large land, Hampton – circa $2.7m
  • Townhouse, 3 homes from the beach, Black Rock – circa $2.25m
  • Single level weatherboard home, Beaumaris – circa $1.45m
  • Large family home on good land near beach, Black Rock – circa $3.3m
  • Renovated Victorian, 2 storey, 5 bed, 2 bath, 2 OSP, Armadale – circa $3.45m
  • Fully renovated Victorian, 4 bed, Malvern – circa $6m
  • Newly renovated Edwardian, Malvern – circa $3m
  • 1960s style home or over 700sqm land, Malvern – circa $2.6m
  • Renovated brick Edwardian, north rear, Malvern – circa $4.5m
  • 1990s two storey family home, 5 beds, pool, Malvern – circa $6m
  • Californian Bungalow family home, fully renovated, Malvern East – circa $3.75m
  • Semi attached art deco looking for renovation, Kooyong – circa $1.75m
  • Edwardian brick family home, Malvern East – circa $2.8m
  • Modern family home on good land, Camberwell – circa high $3m
  • Adjoining homes for individual sale or development w. plans, Camberwell – circa $5m
  • Edwardian family home with tennis court and pool, Canterbury – circa $6m
  • Edwardian family home on large block, needing update, Camberwell – circa $7.5m
  • Californian Bungalow family home, Glen Iris – circa $2.5m
  • Californian Bungalow, renovated, 3 bed, 2 bath, 1 garage, Hawthorn east – circa $2.7m
  • Weatherboard single fronter, needing reno, South Yarra – circa $1.45m
  • Edwardian brick single fronter, fully renovated, Prahran – circa $1.35m
  • Spanish style, river facing, looking for update, South Yarra – circa $4.5m
  • Contemporary renovated home, 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 garage, Prahran – circa $2.3m
  • Refurbished Californian Bungalow with studio, Prahran – circa $1.9m
  • Victorian timber single fronter, 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 OSP, Windsor – circa $2.2m
  • Townhouse, 2 bed, 2 bath, 1 garage, Elwood – circa $1.3m
  • Fully renovated period home, 4 bed, 2 bath, 2 car, St Kilda East – circa early $2m

 

Property market re-opening: what can we expect?

Source: Pinterest

Baby steps, but the Melbourne property market is reopening today.

While we still await a final directive from the REIV (Real Estate of Victoria) confirming the approved activities, the DHHS website says:

Private inspections for residential real estate can also resume with one client (dependants and a partner may also attend) and is limited to 15 minutes. Residents who are living in the home must not be there. The 5km rule does not apply when inspecting a house for rent or purchase. You can only leave your home for a maximum of 2 hours to attend the inspection and you cannot travel into regional Victoria.

We are not expecting to suddenly see vast numbers of new properties hit the net.  Conversations with agents this morning suggest associated services such as copy writing, floorplans, staging etc. can also recommence, however, it may take a little bit of time for these properties to filter through.

Having said that, the number of advertised new listings has slowly been increasing. Possibly homes that were prepared for sale and about to launch before the lockdown at the start of August?

This will not be a full opening of the market. We believe the intention is to help stressed vendors (many who had purchased before selling prior to the lockdown) and buyers (particularly those who have recently sold) to transact and avoid possibly difficult financial situations or with nowhere to live.

We expect vendors will have contracts and section 32 statements prepared. Homes could sell after one inspection if the price and terms are acceptable. Buyers should be prepared to act quickly if the home suits.

Prior to the second lockdown, more often than not, homes were being sold subject to finance, sometimes for up to 28 days and with long settlements. Vendors lucky enough to have multiple interest may be more attracted to an unconditional offer or short settlement, even if the price is not quite as high as another offer.

It’s still hard to predict where the market will be when/if it resumes with some sort of normal. If Sydney is anything to go by, The Australian reported this morning that Sydney had 815 auctions on the weekend with a preliminary clearance rate of 74%, although it’s perhaps a tiered market with the strongest clearance rates in northwest Sydney at 83% while the west saw only 63% clearance.

We see our next three weeks being very busy with all hands on-deck, calling agents, inspecting properties and continuing on with virtual meetings with clients – old and new.

 

Working towards 26 October – easing of restrictions

Still a bit longer until we can inspect homes again (this photo taken pre-COVID)

 

Based on the latest Victorian Government announcements, it looks likely that the property market will remain on hold until at least 26 October (cases permitting) when regulations are expected to relax and ‘one on one’ inspections can resume.

Real Estate will still be operating in a restricted capacity when it finally reopens; however, it will at  least allow some buyers/sellers, who are no doubt quite stressed at the lengthened lockdown, opportunity to buy/sell.

We think a number of homes could sell very quickly when the market reopens (possibly even after one inspection), as there are a number of vendors who have already purchased and need to sell.  The motivation for a seller may also shift slightly and, while wanting their ‘best price’, they may also consider accepting the offer that provides the ‘best result’ – possibly a short settlement and unconditional offer.

There will also be some buyers wanting/needing homes as they have already sold.

For buyers, we think finance approval will be a major key to being able to buy after lockdown and we recommend you remain in contact with your bank/finance broker, to ensure you are ‘buy fit’ should the right property present.

For sellers, we think having a current signed section 32 statement and contract ready for re-opening on the 26th October is the most important thing to focus on, as without it the home cannot be sold.

There may still be some properties that sell during the extended lockdown.  These include:

  • properties viewed prior to the Stage 4 lockdown, currently being negotiated
  • properties with no or limited value in the home (ie. land value/new home site/development site)
  • properties purchased sight unseen

We do not encourage purchasing sight unseen.  Purchasing a property is one of the biggest expenses you will make in your life.  Stamp duty is 5.5% on top of it.  That adds up to a lot of money if the home isn’t right.

The feel of a home is so important.  Sometimes it can tick all the boxes on paper but, walking through, it just doesn’t feel right.  How can you determine this from a video?

Will the video show you everything you should be looking at, or only what the operator wants you to see? What about neighbouring properties, slope, light, overlooking, building condition, ceiling heights, room sizes etc?

The video operator will likely be the vendor or resident, as agents, photographers, copywriters, etc are unable to attend any properties until 26th October (unless to facilitate actions related to moving into/out of properties and rentals).

For those wanting to auction, the first weekend (using the traditional 3 week/4 Saturday model) for restricted auctions is 21st November and advertising preparation can’t be done until access from 26th October.

We therefore think the ‘private sale’ market, more commonly now called ‘off market’, will dominate initially and possibly right through until Christmas, as well as some unlisted quiet ‘off market’, although vendors of these homes may not be as motivated to sell.

If you’d like to chat in more detail, don’t hesitate to contact us;

Adam – 0413 318 079

Kristen – 0408 625 965

Alexandra – 0419 727 578

 

Stage 4 restrictions: how does this affect buyers?

One of the last inspections before lockdown.

Stage 4 Restrictions and Its Effect on Buyers

For most Victorians, the last week has been the strangest week of our lives as we familiarise ourselves with curfews, limited outings and the, hopefully only temporary, closure of work places, including the real estate industry.

Our thoughts are with all those who are finding themselves in a position of insecurity as a result of the closures and we hope for a speedy improvement to the current COVID-19 situation.

Closer to home, there are vendors who have recently sold and were planning on buying or renting something to move into when they settled, who now find themselves unable to inspect anything. Equally, some buyers have bought with the intention of selling their current home and find themselves in the stressful position of possibly holding two homes.

For those buyers, sellers and renters who have already entered into contracts, it may come as a relief that activities relating to moving can still take place; however, for those buyer/sellers who may be caught out as above, it is likely only to add to the stress.

New property campaigns expected to slow down

Although we saw a sprinkling of new properties hit the net last week, we don’t expect to see many new properties launch sales campaigns over the next few weeks, particularly whilst the uncertainty about when and how inspections will resume, remains.  Many of these are advertising ‘contact agent to arrange an inspection’. Perhaps they were pre-programmed to hit the net before the shutdown, but with all inspections banned, we’re not sure how many buyers would want to buy a home sight unseen. From experience, many look better online and avoid showing any of the weaker features.

We anticipate the second half of this lockdown will become a little more active. While agents won’t be able to view properties before listing them for sale, many vendors may be comfortable to sign and prepare so they are ready to go as soon as they are allowed.

We anticipate an increase in the number of off market properties when the rules relax and the possibility of homes selling with only one or two buyers through, if the price is right for both parties.

Why the number of off-market properties is anticipated to increase?

  • For those wanting to sell quickly, there will be time to prepare contracts and section 32 statements (many solicitors/conveyancers will still be able to work from home) before anyone comes through, so the home will be ready to sell straight away if a buyer is found.
  • For those wanting a public campaign, unless the marketing steps (photography, copy, staging etc) were pre-prepared prior to the lockdown, this will still need to be done and takes time, usually about a week, and possibly longer if the number of sellers starts to increase.

Buyers can use this time to prepare

The biggest constraint for buyers when they find the right home is underestimating the time it takes for finance approval, particularly if you have a complex income/tax structure. Again, this is something that can be done from home and the banks and many mortgage brokers will be able to assist you remotely.

In addition to obtaining finance, it is worth considering the time between purchase and settlement as bank requirements are changing daily. If you’re considering a long settlement, finance approval granted now may not be approved come settlement time.

How it will affect the market

The market when it returns is perhaps a bit more uncertain. Six weeks is a long time. Will it hold the strength that was still around (for the good properties), as late as last week? We anticipate a slowing in the number of international and interstate buyers coming into the market as they will be unable to visit to view properties.

This reduction in buyer demand may create a more balanced market (ie. the gap between the number of buyers and sellers levelling out), with a more even number of homes for sale and buyers looking.

Some areas, however, may still see increases in demand. Speaking with agents over the last month, we note in particular the number of buyers who have purchased in the bayside suburbs of Brighton, Hampton and Sandringham, from areas such as Balwyn, Glen Iris, Carnegie, perhaps searching for a more relaxed lifestyle location.

In the meantime, we hope everyone makes it through the next six weeks safe and healthy.

As WoledgeHatt, we are ready to answer your questions and guide you through the problems and concerns you might have during this time. You can call us on 03 9509 7258 or contact us by filling out the contact form here.

Lockdown 2.0: what effects could it have on the property market?

Lockdown 2.0 and Its Effects on Property Market

We find ourselves a week back into isolation again. We hope you and your loved ones are staying safe and well during these difficult times.

Like Lockdown 1.0, the market is likely to see a slowing of new properties becoming available online, at least for a couple of weeks.  We will probably also see the media’s sensationalising headlines again about how the property market is all doom and gloom and how much it is going to crash.

What we do know is that it didn’t after the first lockdown and it is quite possible that it may not this time either.

Perhaps in 6-12 months we may see a softening: when JobKeeper is no longer supporting wages, some businesses have unfortunately closed and banks have decided to call in some of their loans.

For the moment though, that’s all hypothetical – no one really knows what will happen.

What we do know is that people/families/large numbers are spending more time in their homes now –both living and working in them and they want the spaces to work efficiently. And, on average, most people live in seven houses during their lifetime.

Certain homes are in high demand and very low in supply: the family homes (all done) and single storey downsizers. If they come up for sale, they are rarely around for long.

For now, the lockdown time could be useful to work on a plan for the future. Consider what works both in your existing home and surrounding community and what doesn’t work and what you would like to change. If the location is already right, maybe you just need to change the property itself.

Being prepared is the most important thing. Have your finance sorted and a plan in place. If you already own a home, it’s either sell your property first with a good rental strategy in case the right home isn’t around before your settlement, or budget conservatively and buy first, having your home already prepared for sale to minimise any exposure to changes in the market place.

 

An Architect’s View

Some of the better properties currently for sale:

85 Victoria Road Hawthorn East – Mark Beardsley/George Bushby, Jellis Craig

3 John Street Malvern East – Hugh & James Tomlinson, Marshall White

 

‘Off-market’ Properties:

  • Large family Californian Bungalow on good land, Camberwell – circa $2.7m
  • Renovated Hawthorne brick, 3-2-1, Hawthorn – circa $2.3m
  • Land w. home seeking renovation or rebuild stca (no HO), Elwood – circa early $2m
  • Renovated brick Edwardian terrace, 2-1-0, South Yarra – circa $1.5m
  • Federation family home in prime street, Elsternwick – circa early $2m
  • Large modern family home on large land, Black Rock – circa $3.2m
  • Classy renovation, Victorian single fronter, 3-2.5,1, South Yarra – circa $2.2m
  • Edwardian family home, close to amenities, north rear, Kew – circa $4m
  • Renovated double fronted Victorian, north rear, Hawthorn East – circa $3m
  • Renovated Victorian single fronter, 2-1-1, Windsor – circa $1.25m
  • Modern family home with pool, Malvern East – circa $5m
  • Californian Bungalow on good land, Camberwell – circa $3.3m
  • Semi-attached Edwardian, close to amenities, Brighton – circa early $2m
  • Renovated single level family home, close to schools, Brighton East – circa $2.25m
  • Modern large family home over three levels, Glen Iris – circa $3.6m
  • Near new Hamptons style single level family home, Highett – circa $1.95m

COVID -19’s impact on inner-city living

Is there a new post COVID-19 trend to move further from the CBD?

Certainly, if talk is anything to go by, there could be a short or even longer-term swing away from inner-city living.

With many employers and employees now comfortable with the ‘working from home’ option and real-life experience to show it can work (and sometimes even improve productivity), a number of buyers are giving this option serious consideration.

The appeal:

 

  • Can often buy more for your money – bigger land, bigger or more comfortable home
  • Quieter/semi-rural area – back to nature, back to outdoors
  • Possibly more community minded
  • Smaller, more personal shopping precincts
  • Fewer cars, traffic and commuting issues

The considerations:

 

  • Further from friends/family and the city
  • Novelty could wear off
  • Fewer choices for schooling (particularly secondary schools)
  • Generally, less infrastructure (hospitals, emergency services etc)
  • Fewer public transport options

Certainly, for younger buyers (singles, couples, families) disillusioned by the rise in inner city property prices, the appeal to move to holiday suburbs, such as Blairgowrie, Lorne, Barwon Heads, Flinders, Daylesford etc, could increase demand, resulting in price increases for some of these areas.

For those with some autonomy over their time and diary, a longer commute less frequently to the city (perhaps only two or three days a week) could be a more attractive option if the remainder of the week is commute-free.

A safer, quieter place to raise a family sounds all appealing, particularly for those with very young children yet to reach school age.

Generation after generation, parents have worked towards providing their children with more/better opportunities than they have had themselves in pursuit of a better, easier, more affluent lifestyle for their family.

COVID-19 could provide the introduction to the first generation to take what would have previously been considered a step backward in time, with more focus on less. Less time at work (recouping travel time), less organised after school activities for children and more time to enjoy a moment watching the sun set, a walk along a rural track, informal play experiences for children among nature, exploring the bush, more kids on bikes after school, hanging out in the streets and catching up with mates.

As children age, though, will the local school options still be preferred, particularly when it comes to secondary schools?

And for the CBD and Inner City Suburbs, what does this mean?

Looking at the CBD, if workers are only commuting half the time, will that mean that restaurants, cafes and retail stores will only have half the patrons to buy their products? How will this impact turnover and ability to pay premium CBD rents? Will people who currently live in the city want to remain there?Will city property values see larger drops than other parts of Melbourne? How will the flow-on effect impact outer suburb areas?

The inner Melbourne suburbs, particularly those surrounding the desired secondary schools, may be a little more protected. Residents here can have the best of both worlds – not too far to commute for work with good community infrastructure, good schools and easy access to freeways for getaways.

One of Victoria’s car registration plates reads ‘The Education State’ and, for many, it is one of the key reasons for buying near great schools. The ability to work from home while still  living close to everything is a bonus. An opportunity to have a little more personal time at either end of the workday to spend with family and friends, to exercise or relax.

One thing we can be more certain of at the moment is that nothing is certain. Since the start of 2020, we have seen multiple changes up and down in the property market.

Does that mean you shouldn’t buy a property at the moment? We don’t think so. If your decision-making process is sound and long-term plans have been considered (next 5-10 years), if the right property is there, the time to buy is when you find the home. They don’t come up that often and when they do, they are rarely the same.

If you need expert advice or guidance during these time, WoledgeHatt Buyers Advocates are closely monitoring the trends and are ready to work with you. Contact us today to start a conversation!

 

Highlights:

  • 52 Kooyongkoot Road Hawthorn (Michael Ebeling/Anthony Grimwade, RT Edgar), family home on 1,100sqm with pool and court, could be further improved with a cosmetic update – undisclosed circa $7,500,000
  • 51 and 55 Broadway Camberwell, both sold for the same amount– similar land sizes, same orientation and period homes – undisclosed circa $2,500,000
  • 21b Avoca Street South Yarra (Nicole Gleeson/Nicky Rowe, Kay & Burton), renovated townhouse, great location – undisclosed over $3,400,000

Some of the better properties currently on the market; an architect’s view:

 

29 Leura Grove Hawthorn East – Scott Patterson/Judy Balloch, Kay & Burton

50 Cochrane Street Brighton – Barb Gregory/Dot Murchie, Marshall White

53 Perth Street Prahran – Nick Gatacre/Joe Eason, Belle Property

‘Off-market’ Properties:

 

  • Modern large family home, 3 levels with pool, Glen Iris – circa $3.6m
  • Striking modern home, pool, west rear, Malvern East – circa $5m
  • Dated modern home, likely land, east rear ~810sqm, Kew – circa $2.7m
  • Renovated & extended, Californian Bungalow, Hawthorn – circa mid $6m
  • Family Federation home, good land, north rear, Malvern – circa high $2m
  • Contemporary home on good land, east rear, Camberwell – circa $2.7m
  • Californian Bungalow, over 1,000sqm, Canterbury – circa $3.3m
  • River frontage family home on ~730sqm, South Yarra – circa mid $6m
  • Edwardian family home on good land, Malvern East – circa $5m
  • Californian Bungalow, convenient position, Hawthorn – circa $2.8m
  • Californian Bungalow on good land, Camberwell – circa $3.3m
  • Fully renovated, family, Victorian, east rear, Malvern – circa $6m
  • Large Old English home, corner block, good land, Hampton – circa $3.7m
  • Prime position period home, over 1,000sqm, two street fronts, Brighton – circa $7m
  • Dated home, good land, close to amenities, Brighton – circa mid $5m
  • New home site opportunity, ~15m frontage, Hampton – circa $2m
  • Updated family Victorian on approx. 580sqm, Hawthorn East – circa $2.9m
  • Fully renovated brick 3 bed single fronter, St Kilda East – circa $1.65m
  • Renovated Victorian in landscaped gardens ~980sqm, Hawthorn – circa $5m
  • Renovated brick single fronted Edwardian, Prahran – circa $1.45m
  • 80s home with tennis court and pool ~1,800sqm, Hampton – circa mid $8m
  • Dated brick family home, potential dual occ plans, Brighton – circa early $3m
  • Contemporary renovated home, central Brighton location – circa mid $2m

Auction Spotlight:

A large crowd spread far and wide along the street to keep their distance at the auction of 51 Elwood Street Brighton. The property passed in on a $1.6m vendor bid, selling after for an undisclosed amount.

Navigating the off market world

*WoledgeHatt archive image

Off Market Properties: What You Need to Know

Off market. Properties have always been sold in this manner by agents in Melbourne and recently this method of sale has become more prevalent. 

But we believe that navigating the world of off markets is becoming even more complicated for buyers.

Historically, ‘off market’ properties have been sold very privately, often with only one or two parties (including the agent) aware that the property is even for sale.

COVID-19 has brought about a new way to sell ‘off markets’. It has become far more public and, for some, with less control over information being presented to buyers.

We mentioned recently a new trend where we are seeing a number of vendors interested in selling and testing the marketplace before investing in an expensive public campaign. Many of the early asking prices seem ambitious if we compare them with similar homes sold in the past year (remembering that during the past 12-month period we also reached another peak high among some weaker months).  

A number of vendors are placing their biggest asset up for sale quietly with an agent, thinking only the qualified buyers will be made aware of the property, whereas in reality, the property is being shopped around to a number of local agents and their databases. 

We are seeing more vendor advocates and sometimes agents inviting other local agents to introduce buyers to the property in return for a share in the commission. With limited stock around, this can be appealing for agents wanting to increase their commissions. 

Unlike selling, it is much harder for a buyer to choose who they want to buy from. The buyer chooses based on the property for sale, rather than the agent selling the home. Most buyers are on all their local area agent databases. It can be confusing for buyers receiving multiple texts and emails about off market properties from a variety of agents. 

Some of the questions we at WoledgeHatt arm our clients with include: 

·  Which agent should you contact?

·  Which quote is correct?

·  How will you know if there are other buyers interested?

·  How should you make an offer?

·  What price will the vendor really sell at?

·  Is there a process for the sale?

·  Is the property really for sale yet?

·  How reliable is this agent in getting the deal done? 

 

Most buyers love the thought of buying an off market property; however, it is important not to get caught up focusing on off market homes that may not really be for sale (yet) and miss out on something that could have been perfect, marketed the traditional way, or a property that has been on the market for some time yet the ‘asking’ price has been too high. 

We believe that the more experienced agents with a direct line of communication to the vendor get the best result.

We are seeing a number of the better advertised homes sold within the first week of the campaign. Where in the past, a lack of contracts may have delayed quick sales, some agents and vendors are more prepared and aware that their best buyer may be one of the first few through the door and they don’t want to miss the opportunity to sell because they aren’t prepared.

As a buyer, being prepared is the best position to be in.

At WoledgeHatt we know the right questions to ask the agents and we know how to answer our questions above.

Since 2007, we have been buying homes via all these methods of sale and in all different types of markets. We specialise in residential homes, so contact us today and let us help you increase your chance for success when buying your next home.

Good properties still selling well….3 Sorrett Avenue Malvern – Carla Fetter/Andrew McCann, Jellis Craig- sold for an undisclosed price above quoted range on 27 May for around $4m

 

 

One of the better properties on the market; an architect’s view

 

19 Margarita Street Hampton – Stefan Whiting/Guy St Leggier, Buxton

 

‘Off-market’ Properties:

 

  • Brick Edwardian, ready for a freshen up, Elsternwick – circa early $3m
  • Landmark period home with modern rear, Elsternwick – circa high $4m
  • Edwardian family home on good land, Glen Iris – circa $2.7m
  • Contemporary home with downstairs master, Kew – circa $2.3m
  • Victorian single fronter, Hawthorn – circa $1.75m
  • Edwardian brick semi, close to amenities, Malvern – circa $2m
  • Fully renovated double fronted Victorian, Malvern – circa $3.2m
  • Single level home on approx. 470sqm, Malvern – circa high $4m
  • Art deco semi attached, renovated, Elwood – circa $1.6m
  • Extended timber period home, 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 OSP, South Yarra – circa high $1m
  • Edwardian timber family home, close to beach, Hampton – circa $2.6m
  • Period home to renovate or rebuild, 836sqm, near beach, Hampton – circa $2.8m

 

How has COVID-19 changed the Melbourne property market?

Online auctions – a new way of selling during COVID-19 disruptions.

Changes in Real Estate Industry to Adapt

Victorians are looking forward to a new and improving normal this week. While it’s another temporary transition and there’s still a long way to go, the small steps forward are providing motivation and confidence that there is light at the end of the tunnel.   

The last eight weeks have encouraged many businesses to review their procedures and plans for the future and challenged a number of ways in which business has been done.  As a people-based business, the real estate industry has had to adapt quickly to ensure the health and safety of buyers, sellers, tenants and staff while striving to achieve the right outcomes for buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants. 

Some of the bigger changes we have seen include:

  • Plan A – most properties are starting out as ‘off market’. If the home doesn’t sell in the first two weeks, it is then converted to a public campaign (Plan B).
  • More properties (with realistic sellers) are transacting quickly after being listed. Many vendors are more comfortable to take the early offer now than wait for a better offer later, as it may not be forthcoming.
  • More offers are being made subject to finance, with anywhere from 14-28 days for approvals.
  • Many vendors are becoming more focused on settlement terms over or equal to price.
  • Fewer results are being reported and won’t be available until settlement, sometimes up to six months or more later, making it harder for agents to provide reliable Statements of Information.
  • Private inspections only – providing more time to inspect in detail; however, also making it harder to determine other interest in the property, possibly resulting in buyers relying heavily on information from the agent (who is working for the vendor) to make their decisions.
  • Online auctions – agent feedback, generally positive. Agents able to obtain far more information about interested parties as buyers need to register to bid (including 100 points ID). However, there is also greater potential for technological difficulties (ie some buyers can’t access apps if they don’t have the right equipment, or, in many cases, information may entered in incorrectly). Less emotion involved in the bidding process. More transparent for buyers than other methods of sale such as EOI campaigns but still can’t see who you’re bidding against. Will this remain a method of sale for family homes moving forward? If face-to-face auctions return as an option, perhaps not.
  • Multiple buyers – the good properties are still receiving interest and offers from multiple buyers. Some are looking for bargains; however, a larger number remain focused on finding and buying a good quality home for the longer term at a fair price.
  • More EOIs (expressions of interest) – with different and sometimes changing rules, this is still a method that many buyers remain uncomfortable with. 
  • Interactive inspections – perhaps a good starting point to confirm early interest; however, limited to viewing what the agent wants you to see and possibly avoids some of the areas you should be focusing on: hard to get true sense of space, light etc.
  • Hand sanitisers and protective gloves – something that could continue post-COVID-19 for the health and safety of vendors/tenants, as many properties for sale can have a hundred or more people through their homes opening drawers and cupboards and touching furnishings. 

 

For buyers who had been contemplating buying pre-COVID-19 and for those who have realised they need a move up/down/sideways as a result of COVID-19, now could be as good a time as any to buy. Interest rates are low and while stock levels on the internet are low, we are seeing a high number of good quality homes for sale off market. 

Below are a few questions offering insight into what could now become important when looking for a home post-COVID-19 lockdown:

  • More separated rooms for use for work/school and quiet space for calls (Zoom etc) rather than the big open plan layout?
  • Access to natural light within the home. Even more important?
  • More focus on sustainability and energy efficiency with the home (to keep the bills down) eg. Self-sufficient power and water?
  • Better kitchen layouts (don’t just look good but have to be functional) as cooking at home becomes more common?
  • Garages to be used or double as gym areas rather just storing cars?
  • Homes as the new office, functionality?
  • Better options for bicycle storage – location, access, safe, dry?
  • Focus on gardens within the property?
  • External firepit / outdoor breakaway areas?
  • Good access to a safe outdoor area close by park, beach, safe walking track?
  • Preference for houses over apartments?

 

One of the better properties currently listed; an architect’s view

7 Royal Crescent Armadale – Mark Harris/Fraser Cahill, Marshall White

‘Off-market’ Properties:

  • Renovated, single level, 3 bed, single fronter, Armadale – circa $2m
  • 1930s brick family home backing onto park, Camberwell – circa $3m
  • Brick single fronter, 2 bed, 1 bath, walk to beach, Middle Park – circa $2m
  • Fully renovated, family brick Edwardian with pool, Glen Iris (St) – high $3m
  • Renovated timber Edwardian, 3 bed, 2.5 baths, OSP, Gardenvale – circa $2.3m
  • Modern 3 level townhouse with pool, Elwood – early $3m
  • 2 bed, single fronter, close to amenities, Armadale – circa $1.45m
  • Funky conversion over 3 levels, Richmond – high $2m
  • Large, renovated, art deco family home, Toorak – circa $7m
  • 2 storey timber Victorian, 3 bed, 2 bath, Malvern – circa $2.25m
  • Family home, Edwardian, approx. 440sqm, Armadale – circa $3.3m
  • Well positioned, family Edwardian looking for a freshen up, Elsternwick – high $2m
  • Large contemporary family home (6 bed, 5.5 bath), Brighton East – circa $3.7m