The Melbourne couple’s luxury apartment sold for $2.47 million – the highest sale price of the four loft-style apartments that were auctioned at Dux House in Albert Park. It sold for $636,000 over the reserve, which was set at $1,834,000.
The pair won an extra $100,000 for making the biggest profit of the four teams.
Twins Lysandra and Alisa Fraser, who won The Block Sky High last year came second, followed by Kyal and Kara Demmrich; and Brad Cranfield and Dale Vine.
Neale Whitaker, the editor-in-chief of Belle Magazine and judge on The Block, said despite having the least renovating experience of the four teams, Ford and O’Donnell created an extremely desirable apartment with great proportions and massive potential.
“Interestingly, of the three judges, I was the one who was convinced that Steve and Chantelle would find a buyer who would fall in love with their quirky, eccentric style,” he said. “Last night proved me right! Of all the apartments, theirs was undoubtedly the one with the most character. Their ground floor terrace looking out over the street was one of my favourite details – it really was like having your own private pavement café. Very Melbourne.”
Each of the teams went home with more than $500,000 in prize money.
“It doesn’t surprise me that this series was the most profitable so far for each of the contestants,” Whitaker said.
“Nobody expected Steve and Chantelle to win – least of all Steve and Chantelle – but good luck and congratulations to them. They worked hard and put their heart and soul into their renovation.”
Filming has already begun on the next series of The Block, which is expected to screen later this year.
