Author: Belle Maison Realty

Yet again, Victorians are struggling with COVID-19 lock downs from home schooling their children to night curfews and panic grocery buying, leaving the rest of us wondering if we’ll be next. But even before this sad second wave, we as real estate agents were being swamped by concerns from people of all ages and backgrounds....

Proximity or price? Peace or potential noise? Space or restrictions? You might love country solitude but the city suits you too. So, which area best becomes you?  City and suburbia Two words: employment and proximity. With an urban lifestyle comes quality jobs along with transport, shops, and education and health hubs. Property blocks are relatively...

There’s nothing like packing up your house for a big move to increase stress and diminish your bank account. Luckily, there are ways to make The Big Day easier. Budget and plan Expect more expense than you bargain for and ensure extra funds are available for unlooked-for issues. Reliable removalists are crucial. These people will...

It can be difficult to blend a quiet location with proximity to transport, shops and schools. If you’re struggling to find serenity with a train line outside your home, or highways and industrial areas close by, fear not. There are simple, budget-priced ways you can reduce the noise. Where to start Carefully examine your walls,...

We’ve all been there – we check a garage or cupboard and discover a mountain of forgotten molehill details. Objects such as photos and cards easily take up precious space but how can we throw away these special memories?  Weigh up yesteryears Whatever you choose to keep, only put aside one box or shelf for...

They’re not for everyone but if you crave simplicity and mobility, tiny homes will suit you. With a maximum size of just 50m2, according to the Australian Tiny House Association, these little places combine jaw-dropping prices with a standard home’s functionality and style. Starting off small If you’re buying your first tiny house, consider having...

For animal lovers, there’s nothing nicer than a hug from their furry friend. But owning such a friend becomes tricky when you’re hunting for a rental house, with many landlords not enjoying pet purrs and snuggles as much as you. So, how can you persuade landlords to agree to your four-legged buddy? Law changes For...

Tenants moving to an unknown, remote area often don’t have the time, or extra cash for travel, to inspect potential homes. The answer? Call for help from BFFs already living in your dream region.  Reliability and responsibility BFFs are great for support and encouragement but they might not be great house hunters. Ensure they’re ready...

Household living has reached a strange new stage in our COVID-19 world. Home-schooling is back underway in metropolitan Melbourne, and then there’s home-working and uncertain indoor and outdoor entertainment possibilities. All of these issues have led people to take a fresh look at domestic surrounds.  Zoom in on work A well designed and organised office...

We’d all love to live in a brand new, freshly renovated home. But renovations cost money. Luckily there are ways you can overhaul your property and ‘fake’ your renovation without spending a lot of money or knocking down walls.  Replace old door and cupboard handles Door, cupboard and drawer handles can contribute to making your...