We engaged Anthony Dai to build our new home in Strathmore Heights after being highly recommended from a close friend of ours in the building industry. We were not disappointed. Anthony went above and beyond with our project and we would highly recommend Anthony of Aviva Homes as a builder of quality and integrity to anyone looking to build their dream home.

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Our project was a new build on a small subdivided block, where we had plans already drawn up. This was to be our first home, so we had many ideas and visions of what our home should look like. As clients we were very picky with our finishes and had a high expectation of how our home was to look – the end result was better than we ever imagined. Together, Anthony and Cherie helped us at every turn. They were so easy to deal with and very easy to communicate with. There were many times when we would meet up on site to go over certain particulars, to which Anthony and Cherie always had a solution to improve our design layout. Anthony strived to give us the best quality home, if something wasn′t 100%, either picked up by us or himself, he wouldn′t hesitate to get it perfect.

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Both Anthony and Cherie′s professionalism was most evident when we wanted to make some last minute changes. Electrical, heating/cooling and appliances being some examples, as both didn′t hesitate to accommodate us promptly as opposed to rushing into the next stage saying it′s too late. We really appreciated these changes along with constant emails of progress reports, updating us on our build, and all the correspondence we needed for the banks and state revenue office. We are forever grateful for the service we received throughout the construction and the finished quality put into our home by Aviva Homes, being second to none.

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Building can be a stressful time, but having a good experienced builder can make all the difference. It was very important to us to be able to get along with our builder on a personal level and be able to communicate our ideas and thoughts. Anthony and Cherie were everything we could′ve asked for and we would highly recommend them to anyone ready to build.

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Regards,

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Luke and Maggie Bonanno

Anthony Dai of Aviva Homes was the builder chosen to renovate our small home in Watsonia North. The works involved were extending another level upwards and re–configuring the existing layout on the ground floor. The quote he provided was most thorough and detailed all works required. There was also the ability to be flexible and make changes as we went along.

As the work proceeded we made quite a few changes and also had to deal with underlying issues. As problems were identified, Anthony diligently tackled the issues with his knowledgeable experience and we resolved them together.

Part 2 is all of the fun bits, how the house will look and making it a real modern family home as you see in the pictures. Basically, we have seen everything that went into our home. We had unrestricted site meetings, progress updates with photos from administration and constant communication with Anthony nearly everyday, which made us feel we were always part of the process and on the same level. With our ideas, plans and unexpected changes, we ended up having a new home internally, with a modern and practical design layout with nice features added in an en–suite and bathroom, kitchen and staircase. Even after handover, after we moved in, Anthony returned to attend to a few items that needed adjusting, again making sure it was to all our satisfaction.

Due to the flexibility that Aviva Homes provides, we were able to alter some aspects of the original plans as we realised changes would be necessary to suit our needs in the house, which at times was a very time consuming process but worth it in the end.

The staircase for example, ended up being a significant feature of our home; something Anthony encouraged us to do. We had some basic ideas and then we drew up a more detailed design layout for Anthony. He then explained to us how he was going to get it constructed using the best materials suited for our design layout. He worked with his team, the staircase builders, carpenter and cabinet maker to change it into something tangible, something we can enjoy instead of just a plain blank wall. It was truly a masterpiece created by everyone who was involved in the process to make it a reality. With the vertical slats, we were able to carry this styling across to the facade of the house with the porch balustrade and front door, which was an excellent idea from Anthony.

Overall, we had to overcome a number of issues along the way and the process was not always as smooth as expected when renovating an old home, but we really appreciated working directly with our builder, Anthony′s flexible approach, unrestricted site meetings and dedication to achieve a high level of workmanship in a timely manner. Anthony and his Aviva Homes team were able to produce a solid, inspired home for our family to enjoy for many years to come. Thank you.

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Kind regards,

Anthony and Lei Jones

“To Whom It May Concern,

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Anthony Dai (Aviva Building Group) was the Builder we selected to build the construction of our development project, which occurred in 2015/2016. The scope of our project was the demolition of our long–standing family home and the construction of two 26 square, 4 bedroom townhouses. One of the townhouses was to be our new family residence with the other to be an investment property.

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When we were in the process of selecting our Builder, Anthony was very generous with his time –allowing us to walk through previously completed projects and even talk to the owners of the properties. The visible quality of his work and the positive feedback from his previous clients enabled us to confidently engage Anthony as the Builder for our project.

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Throughout the entire duration of the project, Anthony′s focus was to deliver us the best quality product. He effectively liaised with our Designer to modify our plans to improve functionality. For example, Anthony suggested we introduce a ‘third external element’ to add to the upstairs rendered finish and the lower storey brickwork. We then incorporated some feature timber vertical panelling, which has greatly added to the impressive facade of our Units. Anthony also drew up plans to modify the kitchen pantry in Unit 1, producing a semi–concealed Butler′s Pantry. This was done at minimum cost, but greatly improved the look and function of the kitchen. The ensuite in Unit 2 was re–designed by Anthony to provide us with a large walk–in shower. This was a most creative use of a relatively small space. We are thankful for Anthony′s idea every time we shower! The upstairs powder room in Unit 2 was also re–designed by Anthony. He allowed for installation of a recessed wash–basin, which saves space and improves access in the powder room. Another suggestion from Anthony which we followed was the provision and installation of an openable patio roofing system (‘Vergola’) above the external decking in both Units. This was a wonderful idea and has greatly extended the ‘usability’ of our outdoor entertaining area. All of these innovations have greatly improved the ‘livability’ of both Units and no doubt assisted in the sale–before–auction of Unit 1 –for a price we were very happy to accept.

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Anthony provided us with great advice and we were always informed of the many and various stages of construction. We could see progress being made and were clear in what would be happening next. For first–time developers, this was most appreciated and re–assuring.

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Effective and open communication with clients is one of Anthony′s many qualities. He was readily available on the phone, or responded promptly to our messages. There were numerous meetings on–site with Anthony to discuss progress and resolve issues. Our meetings were always professional and cordial (often with Anthony providing fresh coffees!).

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We had many local residents walking past the construction site that commented favourably on the progress and quality of the project –particularly the amount of work that went into our sub–floor, which was of a ‘pier and beam’ construction. I know that Anthony received numerous requests for advice from passers–by that were impressed with his work. This eventually led Anthony to the engagement of another dual townhouse development in our local neighbourhood.

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Now that our project is completed and we are happily living in our new townhouse, my strongest impression of Anthony is his absolute commitment to produce the best quality outcome for his clients. His management and interaction with the numerous tradespeople that worked on site was most professional and effective. Issues that arose were quickly and calmly managed and resolved. Anthony had the experience to suggest workable solutions to these issues and the persistence to drive their implementation.

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My wife, Monica, and I can unreservedly recommend Anthony Dai as a Builder of high quality and professionalism.

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Les McLeod

“Anthony Dai and his Aviva Building Group team recently completed a renovation on our property in Hawthorn. From the moment we met him, we had full confidence in his abilities and trusted him implicitly.

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We needed the kitchen and bathroom completely removed and rebuilt. They were both small spaces that needed clever designing to optimise the use of space. Anthony personally came up with an ingenious and innovative design for both these areas and incorporated them into the rest of the house perfectly. He facilitated the redesign of the meals area to increase its size and it now flows perfectly into the new kitchen. Another aspect of the renovation was to restore the interior and exterior of the home to give them a fresh and modern look whilst being sympathetic to the heritage features of the property. The result of the hard work and effort that Anthony and his highly skilled team put in was that the finished product was of the highest quality and was delivered within the time frame initially set.

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Anthony was always great with his communication and is amazingly easy to deal with. His attention to detail and perfectionist attitude is second to none. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Anthony and Aviva Building Group and would definitely use them for any future projects.”

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Kind Regards,

 

Holley and Andrew Oppy

“To whom it may concern,

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Anthony and his team have recently completed a very substantial renovation to an old Edwardian house in Prahran, on my behalf. The finished product was amazing, reaching all of my very high expectations. In an industry where it is easy to feel out of your depth and vulnerable, Anthony inspires confidence and trust – right through to project completion.

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In addition to the building work, Anthony was also instrumental in many design aspects of our renovation. He provided an excellent blend of creativity with ideas for optimal utilization of our limited space (especially the kitchen), together with a reality that reflected his hands–on building experience. When discussing various options along the way, his experience also meant that he could envision and advise on the finished look that would be created by various ideas, providing invaluable guidance for our decision–making.

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Anthony is easy to deal with and exceptionally communicative and inclusive regarding progress of the project as well as the inevitable hiccups that crop up along the way. We changed our mind in regards to both minor and major components of the works many times throughout the process, and Anthony rolled with each one of the changes, good–natured and accommodating at all times. Anthony takes pride in the work that is done, doing all that he can to provide the highest quality product. Importantly, when decisions needed to be made along the way, he always sought our opinion – as well as providing good information on which we could base our judgement.

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In addition to all of this, the strongest recommendation we can offer is that we are already planning a renovation to another property and have asked Anthony to partner with us in that project as well. To anybody looking for a competent Builder to undertake a renovation, we would strongly recommend Anthony Dai.”

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Dave & Kym McIlroy

“Anthony was engaged to build my family home in Ivanhoe. I couldn’t be happier with the quality of the workmanship. Favourites of mine include the spotted gum flooring and seamless transition into the staircase with glass balustrade giving a modern gallery vibe as well as the corner stacker doors and NIB wall opening up the alfresco into the family / dining room space improving functionality and look. He always gave great suggestions throughout the build process from bathroom / bedroom layouts to cladding used on the external wall. The end product was a high quality home that passed even the toughest inspections with flying colours. If quality is what you care about, Anthony is your man.”

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James Chin

“To Whom It May Concern,

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I own a 3 bedroom rural property in Tallarook. I have had this house rented to tenants for several years. Unfortunately nobody cares for your house the way that the owner does.

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In Sept 2014, the tenants children were playing with a lighter and set fire to the room they were playing in. The fire spread throughout the room and into an adjoining room causing extensive damage to these areas. Smoke damage was also caused right throughout the house.

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Thankfully I had insurance and as a result I was introduced to 3 builders who were to quote the repair job.

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One of these builders was Anthony Dai, of Aviva Homes. Right from the start I was impressed with Anthony and the way that he conducted himself. Anthony was very thorough with his inspection of the damage, documenting and recording the details.

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I was provided with the 3 quotes and although all 3 were of a similar price I decided to go with Aviva. This decision was based purely on the depth and detail that quote provided. All areas of concern were addressed in the quote and left nothing out that could cause me problems once signed off.

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The repairs commenced rapidly and the house was stripped bare and basically started again. I was consulted at every stage and had input into how I envisaged the end result to be. Anthony was excellent with his technical knowledge and his guidance was invaluable throughout the whole process of construction, making sure my home was restored using the best products available.

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Having not been prepared to have to deal with rebuilding a house, I had no clue as to what I wanted or what is now considered fashionable in modern homes. This is where Anthony excelled. His ideas and adaptability with the floor plan were brilliant. My home has now been transformed from a dated interior to a modern home with a very usable floor plan.

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I would recommend Aviva Homes and Anthony to anyone requiring building works, whether it be renovations or construction. His team work well together and the end result is a something to be very satisfied with.”

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Regards,

Sharon Wilson

“My wife and I had purchased land and were looking to do a small development. We spoke to a number of local, and some of the bulk builders to see how they might help us. The bulk builders decided the block was too steep and many of our local guys were just too busy to help.

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We came across Aviva Building Group and they had a display home that won an award that fitted well to our block. Jenny and I met Anthony and looked at some homes he had built. We were impressed with the quality of the finishes he achieved in homes that were reasonably priced, and certainly his customers (to whom we spoke) were impressed with Anthony′s professionalism, follow up, and attention to detail. We chose to go with him.

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Anthony got things underway quite quickly and was perhaps a bit too enthusiastic in the beginning. We had warned him that our local Council (Yarra Ranges) was awkward to deal with and could be adversarial. I think the council interference did cost us 6 months in progress requiring a planning permit, as we had a restrictive building envelope and wanted to keep the existing liquid amber tree. Throughout the planning process, Anthony remained positive and supportive while liaising with us and the council in changing the design to meet the planning permit requirements.

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The house we have ended up building was a little more expensive than the bulk builders, but is full of features they would never provide other than as expensive options. We have solid timber floors, supported by a pier and beam system that works very well to our steep block (that Anthony encouraged we do), leaving ample storage space under the house. Our kitchen and bathrooms are well finished and quite luxurious looking with stone bench tops and quality fittings. The veranda area is designed very well, facing north bringing sunlight all day. Anthony came back on a couple of occasions to add some little touches of finish in because he thought they would add to the house, and it is this service ethic and desire to please that sets him apart from other builders we have worked with.

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We did have a couple of hostile neighbour problems during the build. If Anthony was angry because of their unreasonable attitudes and approach to the trades on site, he never showed it with them. He tried to be reasonable at all times and always treated them with respect.

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There were a couple of drainage problems caused by our landscaper we engaged, not Anthony, and Anthony was quick to return and offer advice on how to fix them. Our landscaper remedied the problem, but what we liked was that Anthony didn′t just walk away because the building was finished and he had received his monies.

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So, what does this all mean? We would certainly use Anthony if we were to build again, we would certainly recommend the quality and of his product and professionalism.”

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Regards,

 

David and Jenny Reddin

“Hi Anthony,

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I just wanted to let you know our family was successful in selling the Tollington Ave unit, which had been our grandmother′s, so it had been in the family 50 years. We regretted selling, but as no one of the 5 surviving children could top the best offer at auction, it has now been sold. It was sold for a good price, and we are happy with that. In fact so good that I do worry about young people starting out today.

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A big part of selling it successfully was the job you did for us, adding and adding jobs as we looked deeper into the place. The end result reflects you and your team′s good workmanship, so please pass our thanks to all involved.”

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Kind regards,

 

Michael Hoy

“To whom it may concern,

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In June 2012 we engaged Anthony Dai from Aviva Building Group to build our new home. As first time builders we were keen to work personally with a builder so that we could be walked through the process with as few bumps along the road as possible.

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Building a new home can be a stressful time but working with an experienced Builder like Anthony made the build an easier one.

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Anthony′s strength is his attention to detail and willingness to provide superior client service. Both my wife and I experienced this first hand. We were provided unrestricted access to our home as it progressed, and Anthony′s Tradesmen were high quality, in particular “Dave” the bricklayer!!

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I would not hesitate to recommend Aviva Building Group to any discerning customer looking for a quality home at an affordable price.”

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Best regards,

 

Matthew and Vula Sheens