JOCK.blog

2011-12-16T16:47:00.002+10:30

Stuck for a christmas present for that person who is impossible to buy for..?

Pop into our office at 60 Kensington Road, Rose Park, and purchase a painting from one of our emerging artists.

Amy Herrman and Todd 'Romy' Romanowycz have some amazing pieces on display.

2011-12-09T11:02:00.001+10:30

Great news that the RBA has cut interest rates by 0.25%.

Not so good that the banks have been slow to respond.

ANZ has now made the full cut, but their press release indicates they will no longer be guided by the Reserve Bank's official cash rate, but will make their own announcements on the 2nd Friday of each month. Interesting...

2011-11-30T11:51:00.002+10:30

Hey prospective tenants - where are the manners?

Just chatting to our property management department - times are made to go through our vacant properties, and confirmed by SMS - but no one turns up.

Pretty hard on our committed, busy property managers.

So how about a quick text back if you can't make it?

2011-11-24T16:10:00.002+10:30

With the mining boom in WA, the new trend in tenants in Perth is FIFO (Fly In, Fly Out), which are accounting for an increasing number of rentals. This trend is expected to follow into Adelaide, with the Olympic Dam and other mining developments.

Rental Ownership + Home Ownership

2011-11-10T15:43:00.002+10:30

Proportion of income required to meet rental repayments has risen to 24.8% from 21.8% in 2001.

Proportion of income required to meet home loan repayments has risen to 34.6% from 25.1 in 2001

Interesting to see that both homeowners (34.6%) and renters (24.8%) are paying out a greater % of their income to have a roof over their head.

This has been rising since 2001 when it was 25.1% and 21.8% respectively.

2011-10-27T13:57:00.003+10:30

With the CPI very low, there is a high chance of an interest rate cut next Tuesday.

With utility prices skyrocketing, Australians need a bit of relief at the moment, and this would be a positive step in the right direction.

2011-10-13T16:26:00.000+10:30

In a patchy market where properties are still selling I thought you would be interested in this email regarding a property I recently sold in Toorak Gardens.

"From all the news being published at the moment about how real estate is travelling, the times people’s homes are on the market and "doom and gloom" that’s out there - We have not experienced any of it. We purchased from you one weekend, the next had ours on the market and 2 weeks later ours sold.....

We are living proof. It goes to show, how you told us, homes need to be realistically priced and then the stress suffered by everyone is kept to a minimum!”

Now more than ever listen to what your real estate agent has to tell you… You must have trust and confidence in your agent to represent your best interest at all times. If you don’t then you should be using someone else.

2011-10-07T09:07:00.002+10:30

So sad to read of the death of Steve Jobs.

Due to his innovation we are launching QR Readers this weekend standardly on all our signboards and Just Listed material.

Simply download the App from the Apple Store and scan over the Code for an immediate eCatalogue of the property.

Thank you Steve.

2011-10-04T15:15:00.003+10:30

In these days of business uncertainty keep your head about you with respect to house prices.

Unfortunately bad news always sells.

Remember while the Aussie share market is 30% plus down, depending on which day it is, on its 2007 peak, Australian house prices are about 10.3% above their pre GFC high.

There has been no house price growth in the last year, with a few exceptions, but in that time the ABS states our household disposable incomes have increased by about 7%.

Call me biased, but property is a good industry to be in.

2011-09-27T16:19:00.002+09:30

Interesting to see on the rental front that tenants overall are paying higher rents, but that vacancy rates are also rising.

The huge hikes in water and rates are likely to have contributed this time around to rising rents, as landlords try to recoup some of their rising costs.

Remember, as from June there has been a 60% increase in water supply charges and 50% increase in basic water price.

If you are a tenant, go to our Hot News page on our website, and read 'Powering Down - The Retailers Responsibilities'.

2011-09-16T10:12:00.002+09:30

Exciting times as I have been approached by several groups to stand for Presidency of the REISA.

Having been on the Board for 4 years, I am looking forward to the challenge of standing and representing what I am passionate about - People and Property.

Any questions or queries, would love to hear from you.

The Forgotten Core Component To Selling

2011-09-09T14:00:00.002+09:30

It surprises me that there is so little focus on the skill and experience of the sales consultant in negotiation when there is discussion re who to appoint to sell you home.

Your home is the prime investment for most families. The focus seems so often to just to be on the marketing.

How your agent represents you during the negotiation process is critical to getting a win-win result.

Successful sales consultants are good negotiators with skill and expertise in navigating the most challenging of circumstances.

Profile On...Toorak Gardens

2011-09-02T16:43:00.001+09:30

My experience in this beautiful suburb over the years has been extensive and full of fun with helping our cilents.

Houses always sell quickly to people who are attracted to TG because of its character, location, and strength of 'sound investment'.

We have sold about 70 properties in recent years in all streets, and some of the most memorable results have come through Toorak Gardens.

I love coming to work every day, and achieving an excellent outcome for all local home owners, past present and future!

Did you know the average price for the last 12 months was $1.261m?

Profile On...Rose Park

2011-09-02T16:40:00.001+09:30

Much the same comments as Toorak Gardens, but a distinctly different style in Rose Park, dominated by stunning Victorian Villas and cottages.

Normally on smaller blocks, quite often with the old 'night lane' at the rear.

Demand and prices in Rose Park are strong, and like Toorak Gardens, sell quickly to happy people who just love the Villas.

The average price in the last 12 months was $1.134m!

Discounting Fees

2011-08-19T16:54:00.002+09:30

I was speaking to Real Estate Business earlier this month on this topic.

I said there will always be those agents that cut rates to secure business, but what is surprising is how low they are prepared to go.

I can't help but wonder how they approach the negotiating of a sale on behalf of the Vendor.

Gallery At 60 A Success

2011-08-19T15:00:00.004+09:30

A huge thank you to all who attended the latest opening at Gallery At 60, featuring the works of Ty Manning, Debra Nangala McDonald, Todd 'Romy' Romanowycz & Mitjili Napurrula.

It was a great night and the silent auction was strongly supported by our local businesses. All proceeds raised went to Sight For All. Check out their website to see the outstanding commitment and contribution this dedicated group of eye specialists are making to eye health and wellbeing in developing countries.

The exhibition is open from 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday until August 28th. Call in and have a look, as we have some fantastic work on display.

2011-08-12T14:04:00.002+09:30

The CEO of REI of Victoria has pointed out that the last 20 years has shown that investment in Melbourne Property has provided better returns than the stock market.

Prices have been less valuable than shares, and buying a sound property in a good suburb means it is hard to lose in the medium and long term.

Your initial outlay is high, as are the transaction costs, but the variables to be aware of in purchasing a home or unit are easier to do your due diligence on, than researching a little known listed company.

Adelaide Most Expensive State..

2011-07-19T09:17:00.001+09:30

Water pricing in Adelaide, along with other utility prices have just taken a major price hike.

We are now the most expensive mainland state…

Pretty concerning for everyone, especially young families, many of whom have struggled so hard to buy their own home.

First Home Buyers Market

2011-06-23T14:50:00.000+09:30

New home starts are likely to remain in decline for the 2012 Financial Year.

A factor contributing to this is the anticipated rise in interest rates.

On the supply side, there is a load of finance available for residential developments, meaning many commercially viable projects aren't going ahead because of stringent conditions imposed by Lenders.

In addition, slow land releases and planning delays are adding to the cost of a new home.

How's The Market Jock?

2011-06-02T15:10:00.002+09:30

....yes I do practice what i preach.

The market is fine if you ignore the Media…If you are thinking of moving house…Upgrading or downsizing, then what’s changed?

Nothing really, except that the market has leveled, but Interest Rates are cheaper than 35 years ago.

We bought our 1st home in 1976 when Rates were 9.88% and sold for 567 % gain in 9 years.

We bought our 2nd home in 1986 when rates were 15.5% and sold for 1207 % gain in 22 years.

We bought our 3rd home in 2008 when rates were 9.45% and…

Rates are currently 7.79%...This time 35 years ago they were 9.88%

Families are still growing and shrinking…Moving house in a stable Market allows you to do your homework carefully, then buy 1st and sell 2nd factoring in Bridging costs when yes prices may be off a little, but so is Stamp Duty…

At JGRE we are getting strong interest for nice houses (as we always have) with multiple offers and sales in 5 to 10 days…So I say, keep doing in life what you want as long as your Homework is realistic.

Jock Gilbert Real Estate and SALA Art Festival

2011-05-26T12:58:00.001+09:30

As you know, we are strong community supporters of Emerging Artists through our Gallery at 60.

We are just finalising artists for our opening for the SALA Festival in August - more details soon.

If you wish to attent the opening, please email enquiries@jockgilbert.com.au.

Property Update

2011-05-26T12:57:00.001+09:30

Buyers and Sellers are on an even playing field. In this type of market it is even more critical that marketing is targeting the right people for your property, and that the agent handling your property is a skilled and experienced negotiator.

Adelaide - Australia's Most Liveable City

2011-05-18T12:16:00.002+09:30

The Productivity Commission has come out and said what we all know... Adelaide has been judged Australia's most liveable capital.

17 Criteria were used including public safety, climate, housing affordability, and public transport.

Adelaide came out on top, followed by Canberra, with Melbourne, Hobart, and Brisbane all in a cluster behind.

The Market Today....A Summary

2011-03-10T13:12:00.000+10:30

Reserve Bank governor Glenn Stevens has said housing prices are nothing to be worried about, telling a business lunch yesterday prices in the current residential property market are "not exceptional by global standards".
But his comments come as new data from the ABS and property research RP-Data have found that home sales dropped by 20% during the calendar 2010 year, and commitments for new homes fell by 9.6% in January.
"I don't think we have huge rises going on... we have had quite modest growth in house prices for the past year or so," Stevens said yesterday.
"That would seem to me to be consistent with a household sector that is being more careful and has properly observed what has happened in other parts of the world."
Stevens said while the house price to income ratio is often quoted as evidence of a housing bubble, he argues the broader measures look at country-wide prices and income, and therefore the ratio is about 4.5 and "has not moved much either way for 10 years".
"That is higher than it used to be but it is actually not exceptional by global standards," he said.
Those comments line up the views of some analysts, such as those from ANZ and Rismark, which argue the house price to income ratio is deficient and does not take into account other income sources.
However, his comments come just one day after the Real Estate Industry of Australia released new figures which show housing affordability has become even more difficult, with the average homeowner now requiring 35% of their income to make repayments.
The same survey also revealed the proportion of first home buyers as a total of home owners has now reached its lowest point since 2004.
And RP Data said yesterday the number of sales dropped 20% during 2010. Sales fell by 30% in Darwin, in Brisbane by 29% and in Hobart by 28%.
Housing Industry Association economist Matthew King says while prices have remained stagnant lately, there is still an affordability issue plaguing first home buyers.
"My understanding is the governor referenced the fact there aren't huge price rises going on at the moment. That is true, we'd certainly agree with that and from the middle of last year we've seen prices grow significantly."
However, King says there is still a serious affordability problem in several property markets, and the HIA takes the view that interest rate movements need to be approached with caution in the next quarter as spending remains so fragile.
"There are obvious issues here, of supply, and other matters. The focus needs to be taken away from the house price side of things to the extent that we need to keep focusing on addressing the supply of new homes."
"It's all very well discussing house price movements, but we need to be looking at our ability to supply dwellings at the rate of demand. In recent years, we've done a poor job of that."
Stevens also made comments referencing the mining boom, saying Australians have done a poor job of handling sudden bursts of wealth in the past, and the country needs to improve.
"Having taken on quite a degree of debt over the preceding 15 years or so, households have thought better of taking on too much more," he said. "They are saving more than at any time for 20 years or more.
"So are households in many other countries, of course, but our good fortune is to be making that adjustment against a backdrop of rising income."

Homes on the Market for $2m+

2011-03-09T16:39:00.002+10:30

SA has the 2nd highest percentage increase in homes for sale with a price tag of $2m or more since 2007. In March 2007 SA had 44 homes with a price of $2m+ listed for sale. In December 2010 this figure was 166, an increase of 277%.

The only state to out do us was the ACT with a whopping 2100% increase.

January a Quiet Month for Australian Housing Markets

2011-03-09T16:36:00.000+10:30

Disruptions caused by natural disasters and low sales volumes have resulted in soft market conditions across the Australian capital cities. Capital city values were down -1.6 per cent (s.a.) while the rest-of-state markets saw a -1.2% (s.a.) tapering in values.

January is typically the quietest month in the calendar year for the housing market. Most Australians are on summer holidays and both listings and sales activity tend to dry up.

The spate of natural disasters in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria conspired to undermine consumer confidence and as a result housing activity slowed throughout the country.

The sedate conditions in January were in evidence across the board, with all cities registering declines.

The median dwelling price in the capital cities is also down to $465,000 over the three months to end January, while the median in the rest of state markets is cheaper at $325,000. The national, all regions median dwelling price is $412,000.

Source: RPdata

Investing in New Properties

2010-09-01T11:42:00.001+09:30

Did you know owners of new investment properties are eligible to claim depreciation on the building structure and the fixtures and fittings in their property?

The effective life of a new building for ATO purposes is 40 years (some exceptions apply). This means a brand new property is able to claim the entire construction cost over the life of the property.

For example a property purchased for $450,000 and built in 2010 can claim $15,824 depreciation in the first year, $14,017 in year 2, $12,113 in year 3, $10,981 in year 4 and $10,342 in year 5 (based on the diminishing value of depreciation).

Source: BMT - Maverick Magazine, Issue 28

Gen Ys say YES to Units

2010-09-01T11:41:00.001+09:30

Inner city high rise apartments are becoming the property purchase of choice for younger buyers. The trend, which is being spearheaded in Melbourne, is a result of buyers being priced out of the urban housing market but not wanting to move to the outer suburbs.

Sydney is another market that is highly likely to see growth in the apartment market, as a result of off-the-plan stamp duty concessions introduced at the beginning of July.

Source: Your Investment Property Magazine

Congratulations!

2010-08-09T10:51:00.002+09:30

Congratulations to David O'Grady - State Winner, Leading Agents of Australia - Salesperson of the Year 2010

Market Snapshot

2010-08-06T16:52:00.001+09:30

Nationally house prices increased by 2.4% in the June quarter

Melbourne out on top with 4.4% growth

Annual growth is at 15.6%

Rents increasing by 6% annually

Country councils and eastern suburbs of Adelaide were leading areas for median price growth

Source: Financial Review

A BIG THANK YOU

2010-07-06T15:30:00.002+09:30

Thank you for supporting emerging local artists at GALLERY AT 60.

The opening was a huge success with a significant number of pieces sold. The raffle & silent auction also raised $1150 for Time For Kids.

If you know of any artists who may like to be a part of future exhibitions please ask them to contact Diana Gilbert at dianag@jockgilbert.com.au

We look forward to seeing you at our next exhibition!

Gallery At 60

2010-06-04T12:55:00.002+09:30

Jock Gilbert Real Estate is proudly supporting emerging artists.

Join us for our exhibition opening, featuring

Emily Solomon, Margot Solomon & Jen Wright

On Thursday 24th June 6 - 8pm at 60 Kensington Road Rose Park. Exhibition will be opened by Amanda Blair.

Raffle to support 'Time for Kids' www.timeforkids.com.au

Exhibition hours: 25th June - 9th July, Mon - Fri 9-5pm

Australia's Biggest Morning Tea

2010-05-05T11:16:00.003+09:30

Join us on Tuesday May 25th 2010 at 10.00am for the Jock Gilbert Real Estate Biggest Morning Tea and help us raise money for the Cancer Council.

Join us for tea/coffee, cakes plus raffles and prizes, in support of Cancer Council's research, prevention, education and support services.

Alternatively you can host your own morning tea. It's easy to organise, fun and completely flexible to suit your environment.

By taking part you can help Cancer Council support the 1 in 2 Australians who will be diagnosed with cancer before the age of 85.

To attend our morning tea on Tuesday May 25th please phone 8364 1700 or email laurenl@jockgilbert.com.au

Visit http://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/ for more information or to donate.

Market Update

2010-04-19T12:49:00.001+09:30

First Home Buyers a Small % of Market

First home buyer numbers have decreased to 18.1% of all owner occupiers down from 26.8% in February last year, on a national scale. The average first home buyer loan size has also fallen from $290,100 in December 2008 to $282,100 currently.

Housing Loans

Home loan volumes are also declining with owner occupier housing loans falling by - 1.8% for the month of February. They are down -16.1% over the year.

Million Dollar Properties

Nationally there were 19,417 house and unit sales priced at or over one million dollars last year. This was 21 per cent lower than what was recorded in 2007.

Source RP data

What type of smoke alarm do I need?

2010-04-19T12:46:00.002+09:30

The type of smoke alarm you need depends on the age of your home and when you purchased it:

- If you owned or had a residential rental property before 1 February 1998, you are required to fit a replaceable battery powered smoke alarm.
- If you purchased your home or residential rental property on or after 1 February 1998, your smoke alarm must be fitted within 6 months of date of purchase of the property and you are required to fit a:
- 240 volt, mains powered smoke alarm OR
- a 10 year life, non-replaceable, non-removable, permanently connected battery powered smoke alarm.
- If your home or the residential rental property was built on or after 1 January 1995, you are required to fit a 240 volt mains powered smoke alarm.

2010-03-16T16:43:00.002+10:30

JDRF - Spin to Cure Diabetes

It's on again! Last year Jock Gilbert Real Estate entered their inaugural team for the Spin to Cure event to support the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF).

We're back again for this year's event on April 23rd in Rundle Mall.

The Spin to Cure Diabetes is an outdoor stationary bicycle competition. Each team, made up of five people, must "spin" for 40 minutes in a stationary "race" to see who can rack up the most mileage. Each team member has only 8 minutes to spin as hard and as fast as they can with the team that spins the furthest declared the winner.

To help JDRF find a cure for type 1 diabetes, you can make a donation online. No matter how large or small, your gift will help JDRF continue to move research from the laboratory through to a clinical reality for the 140,000 Australians currently living with type 1 diabetes.

For more information on the event and to find out how you can help please visit www.jdrf.org.au/spin

We're the biggest!

2010-02-22T12:35:00.003+10:30

Travelling around the globe Australia came out on top when it comes to the size of our homes. In 2009 the average size in square metres of new homes in Australia was 214.9sqm. New Zealand 196.2sqm - Greece 1126sqm - Italy 81.5 - UK 76.2sqm.

Source The Weekend Australian, Feb 20 2010

Toorak Gardens - highest median rent in 2009

2010-02-17T16:46:00.000+10:30

The median rent in Toorak Gardens in 2009 was $580 per week - almost $100 more than the year before and the highest in the state. Henley Beach South had the next highest median rent of $550 while other eastern suburbs, Wattle Park, Millswood, Dulwich and Rose Park were close behind.

The cheapest weekly rent in both 2008 and 2009 was paid in Elizabeth.

Rental stock levels rose in 2009 due to the first home owners grant causing renters to leave the rental market and buy their first home.

Source The Advertiser, Feb 17 2010

Happy New Year

2010-01-06T09:53:00.002+10:30

2009 - National Property Picture

National property values were up 10 percent over the first 10 months of the year. However the number of transactions are down even though demand for property is growing thanks to record population growth and improved confidence in the broader economy.

Outlook for 2010

- fairly upbeat
- expect investor and 'upgrader' numbers to continue to improve
- consumer confidence remains high
- medium to long term growth prospects remain healthy

Jock Gilbert gives a market update as the concern grows over the national economy.

2009-04-24T11:28:00.000+09:30

Adelaide continues to display the stability in real estate prices for which it is well known. The first home buyer and unit sector remains strong, while other sectors are selling but with longer days on market.

Vendors selling can be safe in the knowledge that they have made significant capital gains in the last few years. Vendors who have recently purchased and are now selling are doing so on an even playing field.

Statistics are showing that the vacancy rental rate for properties is now approaching 3%. At Jock Gilbert Real Estate the vacancy rate is .5%, showing that well maintained and managed properties are still renting out well.

All the data is telling us there are challenging times ahead. With sound judgment and management of the marketing process properties are still achieving good prices. Auction is still a good market option where the property is likely to attract strong interest, as was the case with a recent auction sale which had 14 registered bidders and sold well.

Until next time….

REAL ESTATE FORECAST - A REALITY CHECK

2008-09-12T10:36:00.000+09:30

Jock Gilbert comments on the state of the national and local market and the new legislation:

· In recent years, local and national real estate has experienced major capital growth with regular conversations over coffee focusing on ‘how much the property down the road sold for’. This was not sustainable. Just think where prices would have been in five years time had this continued.

The last year alone saw Adelaide median house prices increase 15.87% to $365,000. During the last quarter they remained stable, but home owners should be happy with the significant capital growth they have achieved.

Nationally, Adelaide continues to demonstrate its housing price stability with strong realistic gains achieved without the fluctuations, of the larger cities like Perth, Melbourne and Sydney. Here median house prices fell in the last quarter.

Look at the current situation in Palm Beach, New South Wales. Recent sales (58) indicated a 5.6% decrease over the last 12 months. However during the past 4 years Palm Beach has enjoyed a 62% gain to a median price of $2.55m. Property investment has to be judged in terms of years not months.

· The biggest challenge will be in the outer mortgage belt where interest rate rises and petrol price increases are likely to have an impact.

Overall analysts feel that with the S&P ASX 200 down by 10.5%+, the property market locally and nationally is holding up very well.

· Looking forward to 2010 & 11, BIS Shrapnel are predicting good growth across the board in national residential property prices, with Adelaide expected to be amongst the best performers.

On another note, July 28 heralded a new era for South Australian Real Estate with the introduction of The Statutes Amendment (Real Estate Industry Reform) Act 2007.

· The legislation aims to raise professional standards and increase consumer protection.

· For the vast majority of agents, it will be business as usual. Buyers and vendors will notice some changes in the quoting of prices and will no doubt take a while to get used it. Like any change there is a period of adjustment.

Buyers are reminded that in order to bid at an auction you are legally required to formally register with the agent on the day by completing a Bidder Registration Form, showing sufficient photo I.D. and obtaining a bidding paddle.

Do you have any questions regarding the new legislation, or do you have any general real estate queries? Our panel of real estate professionals are available to answer any and all of your questions.

Jock Gilbert Real Estate is fully committed to any measure that ensures the industry operates at the highest possible standard.

Closer to home, we have recently launched the gallery space at our office on Kensington Road. If you wish to be on our emerging artists exhibitions mailing list please email narellek@jockgilbert.com.au

SALA Festival - Gallery Opening

2008-08-14T12:26:00.005+09:30

Jock Gilbert Real Estate opened its doors to the South Australian Living Artists Festival last week when they officially launch their first SALA Gallery season on Thursday 7 August.

“We are very excited to be part of this fantastic festival” said Diana Gilbert, Company Director at Jock Gilbert Real Estate. “Our office was purpose built with this sort of event in mind and it has been a huge aim for us to support local and emerging artists in this way”.

Athanasia Savvoudis, Sam Jeffries, Sharon Gray, Megan Field

The works of Stefan Maguran and Salvador Loreto have been handpicked and will be displayed throughout the SALA Festival, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm at 60 Kensington Road, Rose Park.

In keeping with the ‘local’ feel, the Don Dunstan portrait painted by Salvador Loreto will be on display and is a must see for any and all South Australians.

“This is just the first of many exhibitions we intend to hold at our Kensington Road office, and we expect it to be a highly successful event.”

Sally Chapman, Margie Fox, Skye Jarvis

Jock Gilbert Real Estate proudly supports Australian Sponsorship 4 African Kids Ltd.

2008-07-23T16:06:00.003+09:30

Australian Sponsorship 4 African Kids (AS4AK) Ltd was initiated in 2006 by the irrepressible Television Chef, noted Food Anthropologist, Author and Public Speaker, Dorinda Hafner, in memory of her mother, Awula Elizabeth Naa Lamiley Bannerman-Addy, a life-long champion of children, especially the underprivileged.

AS4AK is a sponsorship fund which will continue to raise money for the advancement of kids in need in not only Ghana, West Africa, but eventually, projects all over Africa, and those that Elizabeth Bannerman-Addy's vision and passion would be proud to support.

As a humble beginning, in 2006 AS4AK first raised money for the children at VisionPort International School founded by the proprietor, Joy Addy and situated at the family home at Mamprobi, Accra in Ghana, West Africa.

In 2008 AS4AK's work in Ghana continues with support for another local and very worthwhile children's centre - BASICS, headed by Ms. Pat Wilkins. Jock Gilbert Real Estate is proud to support such a well rounded organisation who are dedicated to making a positive change in the lives of African kids.

For further information on AS4AK visit their website http://www.as4ak.com/

20’s Party To Celebrate 20th Birthday!

2008-07-23T15:50:00.004+09:30

The glitz and glamour of the 1920’s were well and truly alive at the Jock Gilbert Real Estate midyear sware this past week. Sales consultants and admin staff transformed into flappers and gangsters, golfers and smooth customers to celebrate the company’s 20^th Birthday. With the night in full ‘swing’, many were seen attempting to do Charleston to the period jazz music which played through to the early hours of Saturday morning.

(Matt Walsh, Adam White and Di Gilbert)

(Paul Lea, Anne Frearson Lea and Jock Gilbert)

(Kim Haines, Andrew Wilton and Jock Gilbert)

(Narelle Kavanagh, Adam White and Di Gilbert)

Jock Gilbert Real Estate opened its doors in 1988 and has since become one of South Australia’s most respected real estate agencies.

Messenger Community News – Mortgage Choice Rising Star Award Sharon Gray

2008-06-13T16:15:00.000+09:30

The highly competitive field of auctioneering has a new star… and the boys had better watch out!

Sharon Gray, one of the few practicing female auctioneers in the business, has had her talent and skill recognised, taking out the 2008 "Rising Star" Golden Gavel Award.

Sharon, of Jock Gilbert Real Estate, received the accolade at last month’s glittering awards night, hosted by the Society of Auctioneers and Appraisers (SA) Inc. at the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s Grainger studio.

While Sharon has a decade of experience in the real estate industry, she’s only taken on the role of auctioneer in recent years, and now there’s no doubt her star is on the rise.

Sharon says she’s honoured to receive the award, particularly as the standard of competition was so high, and she encourages all practicing auctioneers to take up the challenge and enter in next year’s event.

Jock Gilbert has just been out and about in St Petersburg

2008-06-10T16:10:00.019+09:30

Upon arriving during the summer time we found it snowing!

This is a city of amazing culture, of people very proud of their heritage and contact with the west and of spectacularly preserved historic architecture, mostly consisting of Baroque and neoclassical buildings of the 18th and 19th centuries, like the Ch urch of the Savior on Blood designed in the Russian revival style commemorated the place where Alexander II of Russia was assassinated in 1881.

Founded in May 1703, St Petersburg became the capital of Russia on May 8, 1713 and whilst the city has had a few name changes and only as recently as September 1991 was renamed St Petersburg, the city’s proximity to the border and anti-Soviet armies forced the Bolsheviks under Lenin to transfer the capital back to Moscow in March 1918. This has created a strong competition between the 2 cities, but it seems that St Petersburg has no desire to become the capital city again. The rivalry between the 2 cities was likened to that of Melbourne, Sydney but covering 3 centuries!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

2008-05-09T16:08:00.003+09:30

A Very Big Welcome to Bernie Altschwager!

2008-05-06T14:57:00.004+09:30

A very warm welcome to Bernie who has joined the Jock Gilbert Real Estate sales team this week! We hope your journey with JGRE is a successful and enjoyable one.

Welcome!

2008-04-11T15:16:00.001+09:30

A very big welcome to Kimberley.

We are all looking forward to working with you.

Farewell Karen

2008-04-11T14:58:00.002+09:30

It's been an absolute pleasure working with you.
Your help and support throughout the years has been greatly appreciated.

The Team at Jock Gilbert wish you all the best!
Keep in touch.

Sturt Tee Ball

2008-03-27T11:00:00.004+10:30

The Sturt Tee Ball All stars were due to have their final round 4 on Sunday 16 March, but unfortunately the record run of hot spells has again caused its cancellation.

(this round had already been postponed once and with Easter, holidays and impending winter sport commitments a rescheduling wasn’t possible)

So! An unfortunate end to a great season. On count back of wins and losses, Sturt’s 4 year winning streak has come to an end, with Kensington taking out the trophy for 2007/08.

However, the squad should take great pride in their performance throughout the season – it is particularly satisfying to hear the constant comments from other coaches, parents and members of the clubs of the
visible improvement each and every player has shown during the year – I look forward to watching their development up through the Sturt baseball ranks!

I’d like to take this opportunity to record my thanks for the terrific support from all the parents of the tee-ballers with scoring, equipment, umpiring etc. – of particular note Andrew Johnston and David Brooks who have both given a great amount of time and support to the All Stars – and to Sturt Teeball generally over the years.

It’s particularly satisfying to see how many All Stars are now playing in the higher age groups…may it continue!

Again, our thanks to Mark Goldsworthy and Jock Gilbert Real Estate for their sponsorship over the years!

I would also like to advise that Glen Young has kindly agreed to take on the role as All Stars coach for 08-09 – over the years he has been a tireless supporter and coach of the regular Tball teams and I am sure will do a fantastic job with our representative side! For those who aren’t aware, Tee Ball is played on Sunday mornings at Waite Uni grounds from October through to March and is an ideal team sport for boys and girls aged 5 to 11 years…. Do get involved if you can – President Brett Tucker and his committee would welcome your involvement and support! See http://www.sturtteeball.org/ for details.

All the very best for an enjoyable year!

Cancer Care Centre

2008-03-11T14:22:00.012+10:30

On a beautiful night in February, I was invited to be the charity auctioneer to help raise funds for the Cancer Care Centre, an innovative non profit organization providing complimentary health care services to people affected by cancer. Organised by Pam and Trevor Nielsen and hosted by Glenys and Jeff Berry at their wonderful home “The Quarry” in Stirling. Themed a “Hippy Night” and best described as a “Mini Womad,” the night was packed with belly dancers, fire jugglers, community drumming, local vocalist and an old time rock and roll band. Overall, the evening raised over $6000-00 and was a credit to everyone who helped organize this inaugural event.

2008-03-03T10:33:00.006+10:30

Going green…

What happened to the promise of a paper-free office? One that was run purely on the wonder and marvel of electronic devices? We’ve got the technology; handhelds, laptops, Blackberries and super doper new wave web software, but it seems no matter what is invented, the paper monster always seems to have his fill.

In a day and age when conservation of our resources is critical as we face the global issue of climate change and attempt to carbon offset our lives, one tree at a time, technology really can become our friend again with the ability to create paper-less tools to save the planet – one brochure at a time.

The real estate industry has long been synonymous with being large producers of paper materials; whether they be flyers, brochure, property books and so on, the ability to sell one’s property has largely relied on the delivery and distribution of information, data and photography through hard copy. But, it’s at a cost. Not only to the vendor as part of their property’s marketing plan, but to the planet.

Consumers are searching for alternatives to printed materials. Banks are offering statements online, bills are being emailed, subscription fees and account details can be viewed online – it seems that technology has become the best way to starve out our need for ‘hard copies’ by making the computer-user-interface friendly, reliable and most importantly attractive.

Enter our new property marketing strategy. Going Green has been introduced as an option when selling your home with Jock Gilbert Real Estate and it promotes itself as the ‘need it, print it Eco Web Solution’. Marketing includes inclusion on our website and subsequent property search engines including realestate.com.au and domain.com.au, Feature Property Of The Week spot on both the Jock Gilbert Real Estate website and in house on our fantastic interactive LCD screen, promotion of your property through our New Listing Alert e-mail database as well as direct telephone contact with registered buyers.

It’s a win win solution for you and your contribution to winding back the clock on climate change.

If you are interested in this package please contact our agents to discuss how this would suit the marketing of your property.

Yours eco-kindly,

Hi all

2008-02-08T12:00:00.001+10:30

Welcome to our first blog!

We look forward to hearing from you all through this medium and will no doubt enjoy sharing our stories of success and achievement with you, as well as explain a little further where the South Australian property market is heading in 2008.

After a hectic and successful finish to 2007 we enjoyed a quiet and relaxing January. Di and I spent 2 weeks absorbed in the amazing culture of Laos - a hidden, untouched country with the most wonderful, spirited people - majority of whom are living in extreme poverty. Through our travels we discovered that the US dropped approximatley 1 tonne of bombs for every man, woman and child living in Laos during the Vietnam War, many of which had not yet exploded. With such devastation and cruelty inflicted on both the people, their country and their livelihood you might expect the Laotians to be anything but warm and kind, however we found them to be charming, welcoming and spectacularly friendly.

Highlights from our trip including travelling down the Mekong in a fishing boat and venturing 6km through a cave river system in the rainforest.

Remember, if you ever visit Laos take some items for the orphanages and the children as many have absolutley nothing.

__

On the real estate front we are ready to go for 2008!

Adelaide continues to be the standout performer, with house and unit prices increading by an outstanding 20.2% over the year ending December 2007. Even with such impressive growth, Adelaide prices are still the second lowest of any capital city, with the median dwelling value now at $364,824.

If you are not already in the market, keep a tight budget and get in as soon as you can.

According to Andrew Donnelly, from Braxton Chase Adelaide is likely to show a huge amount of growth in 2008 with history showing a traditional 12 month lag behind the Melbourne market.

Weekend Auction results proved to be outstanding, with this row cottage in the heart of Adelaide acheiving a huge price with lots of competitive bidding. Our Adelaide specialist, Guy Measday should be your first port of call if you are interested in buying or selling in Adelaide. Click here to e-mail Guy.

Again, I look forward to sharing information on the real estate market and the happenings at Jock Gilbert Real Estate on a frequent basis and hearing your thoughts and feedback.

Cheers,