By NICOLE VALICEK
Charles and Michelle Knight have made Williamstown their home. 101631
WITH a television crew in tow, two former UK residents found the house of their dreams in Hobsons Bay’s very own backyard.
Meet Charles and Michelle Knight.
The couple emigrated from a countryside suburb in London to the Hobsons Bay area at the end of December 2011, but it was their involvement with a TV show this year that gave them the chance to own their own home.
“We discovered a TV production company in the UK who were looking for Brits in Melbourne who were ready to buy a property,” Charles said.
“After an email application and a skype interview we were accepted to take part in the show.”
The Knights prepared property criteria for the show’s researchers, who then scoured the market and looked over more than 100 houses, which they whittled down to five suburbs.
With the TV camera crew they viewed the areas and properties in Newport, Williamstown, Seddon and Abbotsford.
“We were given guidance on what we could expect within our budget, the advantages and disadvantages of each property and area together with any renovation ideas.”
The couple were renting in the former Rifle Range so had an idea about Williamstown.
“We both really enjoy the benefits of living so close to the city yet in a very peaceful safe area with a lovely community feel.”
The couple now own their very own home in Williamstown which is just a short walk from cafes, delis, shops, restaurants and bars.
“We came to Melbourne, for the first time, with an open mind accepting it was a huge risk and certainly not intending, but quite prepared, to return to the UK if we failed.”
After 18 months the Knights say they have found great jobs – Michelle has a new dog grooming business called Four Pampered Paws – friends and the new house.
“We have no intention of returning, except for the odd holiday to see our family.”
The show will air in both the UK and Melbourne later this year.
