Greville Pabst and Julian Augustini, mentors to Dan and Carleen on The Block, explained to The Real Estate Conversation their role, and how their experience in the property market was able to help the competitors.

Greville Pabst, executive chairman WBP Property Group 

As mentors to Dan and Carleen, what’s do you see as your main role?

As an advisor, my role involves mentoring both vendors and buyers on how to gain the best outcome for them.

When renovating to sell it is important to keep in mind three things: don't over capitalise, appeal to a broad buyers pool and have a element of scarcity if possible. 

In Dan and Carleen's case, I advised them to restore some of the original art deco features and subtly run the theme throughout. The reason I say subtly is because too often do I see people limiting a properties appeal by either over styling it or not maintaining a consistent thread throughout . A property should be contemporary with a unforgettable touch of personality. 

As Dan and Carleen are from Perth, I've also given them advice on what buyers are looking for in Melbourne and the demographic of the home owners in South Melbourne. My role also involved helping them select and introducing them to their agent, Julian Augustini from Hodges.

What’s the first thing you aim for when you’re selling a property?

Presentation is paramount. It's just as important for the property to be presented beautifully inside, as it is from the street. It's also important to choose the right agent to market your property, who knows the area, and that the seller has a clear understanding of the price and value of the property's location. 

What’s the best piece of advice you have given Dan and Carleen?

To retain the original cornices that are in keeping with the period features of the dwelling. And for the apartment to have an open and consistent flow throughout. 

The Block can create very pressured situations, do you think you can alleviate some of that pressure?

This is my fourth appearance on The Block, and with my experience on the show and as a property valuer, licensed estate agent and buyer's agent, I can help Dan and Carleen understand exactly what buyers and investors are looking for in a property and regularly offer them advice on this along the way. 

What can The Block can teach us about real estate?

Australians have a love affair with property and we all love to see what the possibilities are with a renovation. The Block, in particular, has chosen quite unique properties. For example, they have converted and renovated in recent seasons a former theatre, a commercial building, a motel and now a former soap factory. They have demonstrated what is achievable through some creativity and hard work. The Block has been a wonderful project to inspire renovation, styling and ideas to add value to your home.

Julian Augustini, director of Hodges Brighton and Dan and Carleen's auctioneer 

As mentors to Dan and Carleen, what do you see as your main role?

One of my main roles has been helping with the floor plan of Dan and Carleen's apartment. This includes advising them on the layout, including planning the walk-in robes, creating space in the bedrooms and where to put extra rooms, such as a study space.

Together with Dan and Carleen, and Greville, we've played a role in helping them with the style of the apartment. We made a collective decision to the keep the continuity of the 1920s and 30s theme, but also include a modern flare. We believe keeping the beautiful art deco theme, combined with a contemporary style will attract buyers come auction day.
 
What’s the first thing you aim for when you’re selling a property?
 
The first thing to ensure that the property presented at that first inspection, best suits the market. This means a high quality lock-up apartment, close to town that is exceptionally presented.
 
What’s the best piece of advice you have given?
 
That's it's imperative to make a good first impression, and one that has a lasting effect throughout the property to ensure potential buyers are taken on a journey throughout the home.
 
The Block can create very pressured situations, do you think you can alleviate some of that pressure?
 
The Block can definitely be a pressured environment, however the contestants just need to remember to back themselves. While the build for Dan and Carleen was stressful, in the end they were happy with what they created because they had confidence in what they were doing. By giving the couple advice along the way, this can really help bring up confidence to alleviate that pressure.
 
What do you think The Block can teach us about real estate?
 
I am impressed by the success that The Block marketing has had to date. We're about to kick off our campaign and already we have been inundated with enquiries. I think The Block can teach viewers a lot about real estate marketing.

See also:

Style tips from stars of The Block

Learn from The Block

The Block's first apartment auction