Sarah was always destined to be a creator. Growing up with a builder father, she was exposed to building for as long as she can remember. But it wasn’t until she attended a party next door to Olivia Newton John’s farmhouse in Alstonville that her fervour for home design was crystalised. Inspired by the property’s detailed spiral staircases and parquetry floors, she’s set out to build what was to be their new family home on Kellett Street in Northcote.
Sarah is now happily settled in her modern, luxurious four-bedroom home that allows her to watch her kids play in the backyard from the island bar in her kitchen.

Ever since childhood, Anita has shared a passion for property development with her father – a pursuit she’s carried with her into adulthood. While she was completing her Certificate IV in Building and Construction, she was eager to jump in when the charming property on Robert Street in Bentleigh came on the market.
Today, Anita beams when she welcomes guests into the space. With its beautiful leadlight windows, polished floorboards and expansive open-plan kitchen, Anita’s created a listing any real estate agent would die for.

Like Jacqui, who needed to make the scary move of selling out of a venture with a family member to pursue her dreams! We asked Jacqui about what she would say to someone in your position:
Just do it! If you are reading this you clearly have an interest or talent so lean in, feel the fear and do it anyway. Don’t let money stop you pursuing your dream, there is always a creative financial solution to get you started and there is no shortage of joint venture opportunities for those looking to get their foot in the door.
I can’t believe how much our present and future has changed from decisions made over the last 12 months.’

As the director and business operations manager of Kadabra Group, a domestic building company, Karen is a seasoned developer. And her Richmond project is nothing short of spectacular.
In addition to renovating the family home into a modern-meets-heritage masterpiece, Karen and her team built 5 two-storey residential apartments on the adjacent allotment – complete with a large basement car park.

Joni, who is taking on new challenges, redefining her life while pregnant and with young children in tow! Joni sold up and headed North when they reassessed how they really want to spend their time! Joni told us to tell you:
“Do it! I have never looked back and will wax lyrical to anyone that will listen to me about how beneficial the course is. I have learnt so much about the mechanics of developing for profit, but I didn’t expect to get so much out of the actual group of women who are also in the “collective”. Everyone is so supportive, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. They will freely give you their time to help you. The power is definitely in the amazing collective of women that are BuildHers.”