After weeks of hammering, drilling, decorating, and audiences sitting at the edge of their seats, The Block Fans vs. Faves has come to an end. This evening, the final auctions went to air (the auctions themselves took place on Tuesday) and Steve and Chantelle were named the series winners.
In a shock landslide victory, Steve and Chantelle sold their Albert Park Dux apartment for $2.47 million, an impressive $636,000 above the reserve rate. Like their fellow contestants, Steve and Chantelle will take home the profit on their sale, but have also earned an extra $100,000 for beating out the three other apartments. In total, the Victorian team will take home a whopping $736,000.
‘We’d just hoped the apartment would sell,’ said Chantelle, after the pair’s thrilling auction. ‘We didn’t dare dream about what we’d do (if we won). The first thing we’re going to do is have a party with our tradies.’
Over the past few weeks, there has been much speculation over the stability of Steve and Chantelle’s relationship, and they haven’t been the most popular team in the series. Despite some obvious tension during The Block filming, the couple say that they are happy and strong.
However, with all of the teams selling their properties well above the reserve rates, nobody will be going home from The Block a loser.
Second in the running for victory were Alisa and Lysandra, who sold their apartment for $2.375 million, a $616,000 profit above their reserve.
Kyal and Kara, who have been a fan favourite team this year, sold their apartment for $2.44 million, $567, 250 above their reserve rate. ‘This is truly life changing,’ said Kyal after the auction.
Brad and Dale made the least profit out of their apartment, but were still successful at auction. The boys’ apartment sold for $2.31 million, a very strong $567,259 above their reserve rate.
Overall the night was a huge success, proving highly profitable and very entertaining television.
‘This is a great result for the couples who have worked so hard for every dollar they have earned in profit at the auctions,’ said Nine’s director of television, Michael Healy. ‘This project required real entrepreneurial spirit and hard work. I’m really happy for all concerned.’
