Belle Property North Melbourne

(Formerly Alexkarbon)

North Melbourne is in Charles Bongiovanni’s blood.

“Both of my grandparents immigrated from Italy to North Melbourne after the war, and my father went to Errol Street Primary School (now North Melbourne Primary School). My grandfather owned two butcher’s shops in Queensberry Street, and my parents met on that street - my mum would walk past every day going to high school while my dad worked with his father in the shop.”

Long-time residents of the suburb regularly ask Charles whether he’s related to the Bongiovannis who owned the North Melbourne butcher shops.

His deep love for the area meant that he was adamant that his first real estate firm, built with his friend Alex Puglia, should be located in North Melbourne.

“We thought North Melbourne was an area that was developing and growing, and the community had untapped potential, being so close to the CBD,” says Charles.

“We just believed that we could, like any business when they start, do something better,” Alex explains.

“We want something that offers the community a service that is a little bit left of centre. We try to be a little bit more personal and approachable and less old-school real estate in a forever-changing industry. In 2022 we were awarded Agency of the Year by Rate My Agent.”

“For over a decade, the team led by Alex and Charles have covered all facets of real estate, from residential and commercial sales to property management and project marketing.”

“Our uniqueness is that we are a one-stop real estate service. It took us a few years to entrench ourselves locally because it's such a tight community, but we've built our business successfully on our network and referrals.”

“We’re also proud to give back to the community through our involvement with the Rotary Club, traders association, primary school and sponsoring the annual Spring Fling festival.”

After decades in the real estate industry, Alex and Charles love that feeling of finding a great result for a vendor, a new home for a purchaser and helping renters and rental providers in the property management journey.

“I still love that feeling of putting a sold sticker on the board or helping a family buy their dream home after a long search,” smiles Alex.

In 2023, Alex and Charles announced their big step of joining Belle Property, Australia’s premium real estate network. Led by Scott McElroy, Alex Puglia and Charles Bongiovanni, this strong trio of committed local experts are dedicated to providing top property services to our community and serving Melbourne’s inner north area.

Words by Joyce Watts & Photography by Anna Encio