Jellis Craig: Making First Impressions Count

Words by Peter Bain
Photography by ARC Studio
In Partnership with Jellis Craig

Melbourne real estate agency Jellis Craig’s design team is transforming property presentation with a focus on subtle yet impactful updates.

By integrating an in-depth knowledge of contemporary design with a strategic approach to property styling, Carla Fetter, director of Jellis Craig Armadale, and her team ensure that each project listed with the agency resonates with the discerning tastes of today’s buyers. From the initial assessment to the final touches, Jellis Craig’s expertise turns ordinary spaces into market-ready showings that embody both sophistication and timeless elegance.

“By making the right updates, my team can turn a tired home into something that feels fresh, modern and completely transformed.”

“By making the right updates, my team can turn a tired home into something that feels fresh, modern and completely transformed,” says Fetter. This ability is evident in projects like the recent transformation of homes in Armadale and Malvern, where strategic updates significantly increased the sale value. Even small changes, such as modernising flooring, refreshing exterior colours and updating landscaping, can make a substantial difference. For example, stripping back old Baltic floorboards and applying a light limewash instantly rejuvenates a space, giving it a fresh, contemporary look.

Jellis Craig’s process begins with identifying key areas for improvement. From flooring to light fixtures, each element is chosen to maximise appeal. “Updating external period features with modern colours breathes new life into a property, enhancing its curb appeal and creating an inviting first impression,” says Fetter. Replacing outdated lighting with modern pendants or repainting walls in classic tones like Dulux Natural White make a huge impact on a home’s appearance. Jellis Craig also collaborates with top-tier styling experts like Create Expectations to ensure properties are presented with high-quality furniture.

Landscaping updates, such as laying new grass, adding mulch and trimming hedges, help create a polished outdoor space.

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The exterior of a property is equally important. Landscaping updates, such as laying new grass, adding mulch and trimming hedges, help create a polished outdoor space. Carefully positioned planters and fresh gravel pathways also add street appeal while making the space feel expansive and intentional. These changes, coupled with updated facades, contribute to creating a stand-out impression on potential buyers.

Efficiency is at the core of Jellis Craig’s service. Within 48 hours of signing an authority, Fetter’s team coordinates property professionals – including painters, stylists and landscapers – to execute updates swiftly. “The transformation is often faster and more seamless than clients expect,” she adds.

Within 48 hours of signing an authority, Fetter’s team coordinates property professionals – including painters, stylists and landscapers – to execute updates swiftly.

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Drawing on a deep engagement with contemporary design practices and architectural influences, Jellis Craig’s design team continually evolves to meet market demands. By staying at the forefront of industry developments, they ensure each property resonates with current trends and buyer expectations.