Agents & their Spaces: Ben Everist

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Balancing Work and Lifestyle on the Peninsula

11 July 2024

For Ben Everist, a Sales Executive at our Sorrento office, the Mornington Peninsula has always been more than just a place to live and work – it's a part of his identity. With a childhood filled with summers spent on the beaches of Sorrento and Portsea alongside his three siblings, Ben's connection to the area runs deep.  

Ben's appreciation for the freedom and sense of achievement that comes with finding renovation opportunities and renovating began early in his life. At the age of 25, he bought his first home and soon discovered his passion for transforming properties. His experience in buying houses, renovating them with oversight from architects, and project managing the process has given him a unique perspective on the real estate industry. 

Today, Ben calls Rye home, having lived there permanently since the beginning of 2024 and on and off for the past 2-3 years while transitioning back to Melbourne from New Zealand. Staying with his family, his current home was originally a two-bedroom beach house, since transformed by his brother, who is a local builder, into a stunning coastal retreat. The renovated home now features four bedrooms and four bathrooms, providing ample space for the family. Additionally, it offers the option for future use as a home and income property or an Airbnb. 

When asked about his favourite room in the house, Ben is quick to answer, "I have two: the lounge and dining rooms," he reveals. "The combination of styling and natural light in both areas makes them great spaces for relaxation." The home's position, chosen for its optimal light and flow, proximity to amenities, and the beach, makes this property truly special. 

The garden surrounding this property is filled with easy-care bushes and native trees, and the deck that flows down the south side of the house is perfect for entertaining. With plans for a pool to complete the outdoor space, the home's appeal as a year-round retreat will be further enhanced. 

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Ben's love for the Mornington Peninsula extends beyond his home. "I love living close to all the things people enjoy on the peninsula, with access to the beach in summer and being within a stone's throw from fantastic vineyards and golf courses."  

Ben's passion for food and wine developed while taking some time away from his studies. He worked at a range of Melbourne's top restaurants for the Van Handel Group two decades ago, including Stokehouse, Circa, and later, moving into the hotel business at The Prince. "I'm also drawn to great businesses not only because of the quality of the food and wine but also because of the people," he explains, giving an example of having worked with Madeleine Morgan, the current Restaurant Manager at Pt. Leo Estate, with whom he also worked during his time at Circa. 

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In his role as a Sales Executive, Ben brings a decade of experience buying and selling property, along with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. His enthusiasm for real estate is driven by a genuine connection with people and a sharp appreciation for home design and architecture. Always striving to deliver more than expected, Ben excels in providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships as a trusted and relatable professional within the industry.  

Ben's determined and motivated nature, coupled with meticulous attention to detail, has consistently earned him numerous testimonials and referrals throughout his career. As a skilled negotiator, he specialises in securing the best possible outcomes for his clients, with an assertive communication style that ensures clear and effective interactions. 

When he's not helping clients find their dream homes, Ben can be found cheering on the Melbourne Demons, playing hockey (a sport he's competed in at both national and state levels), cycling, spending time with his family, and dining out locally – with Del Posto 2409 in Rye being a favourite local spot. With his strong ties to the Mornington Peninsula and having lived and worked across Melbourne, Ben appreciates the arts, sports, and hospitality options in both regions. As someone who is passionate about the beaches and coastline, he places sustainability at the forefront and actively pursues ways to reduce his family's waste footprint. 

For Ben, his home on the Mornington Peninsula is more than just a place to live; it reflects his affection for the region. This understanding and appreciation allow him to help his clients find their own perfect slice of coastal paradise. 

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