Melbourne North

In this episode of New Neighbourhoods by OpenLot.com.au, Walt and Emmylou explore Craigieburn in Melbourne’s north. With established shops, schools and transport connections, alongside new opportunities to build, the suburb combines everyday convenience with a diverse community and plenty of green space.

The episode features:

- Aston Estate
- Simonds Homes
- RedZed
- OpenLot

At Aston Estate by Peet, Walt and Emmylou discover the next chapter of Peet’s established community, with an extension planned to deliver approximately 1,000 additional homes. Lots ranging from around 100m² to 600m² offer options for different buyers, while green linear parks, shared paths and connections to existing amenities bring convenience and outdoor living together. The hosts also explore Aston’s family-friendly spaces, including its traffic park, where children can practise road rules on their bikes and scooters. Established trees, waterways and picnic areas show how nature remains part of everyday life, even within a bustling suburb.

For home design inspiration, Walt and Emmylou step inside the Marsden by Simonds Homes. Spacious living areas and walk-in wardrobes highlight its family appeal, while the team discusses more than 75 years of building experience, its lifetime structural warranty, and townhome options for buyers seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle.

The episode also looks at the challenges self-employed buyers can face when applying for a home loan. RedZed explains its approach to assessing borrowers, including alternative income documentation, and discusses how speaking with a mortgage broker can help buyers understand their position.

To simplify the search, the hosts meet Cass from OpenLot  and explore how buyers can shortlist builders and home designs in one place. Filters for price, bedrooms and other preferences, alongside comparison tools and local property insights, help buyers find options that suit their needs.

Beyond the homes, Craigieburn’s local businesses and food scene offer a taste of the suburb’s character. Conversations with shoppers and a longstanding retailer reveal a community shaped by cultural diversity, young families and strong local connections.

Whether you’re searching for land, comparing home designs or exploring life in Melbourne’s north, this episode offers plenty of inspiration. Catch up on 9Now, or watch on OpenLot.com.au and take the first step towards your next neighbourhood.