Hawthorn star Massimo D'Ambrosio's Clayton home tour has buyers buzzing
Hawthorn's Massimo D'Ambrosio has traded footy drills for espresso shots, helping sell a mate's home that could've doubled as his nonna's.
In an exclusive to the Herald Sun, it can be revealed the rising AFL talent has joined the campaign for 23 Murdo Rd, Clayton as a proud property ambassador, bringing heart, heritage and a touch of la dolce vita to a much-loved listing.
The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sits on a generous 715sq m block and is being sold through Buxton Oakleigh auctioneer Dimitri Damianos, with strong appeal for both families and developers.
While the 21-year-old isn't the owner, he's an Italian friend of the vendors, and the home's nostalgic charm, from its manicured gardens to its fruit-laden trees, instantly struck a chord.
'He grew up around homes like this,' Mr Damianos said.
'The fruit trees, the layout, the smell of cooking in the air, it reminds him of his grandparents' place.
'His Italian roots are a big part of who he is, and this home really captured that.'
D'Ambrosio, who was drafted by Essendon in the 2022 mid-season draft and played a breakout season for Hawthorn in 2024, visited the home this week and Mr Daminos bonded instantly with the owners over coffee, cannoli and shared Sicilian roots.
'There was this hilarious moment where he spotted some gaggiu fruit — loquats — in the yard and called it out immediately,' he said.
'I had no idea what it was — the family gave me grief for that.
'But Massimo was in his element.'
Inside, the home features original Sortino furniture — a brand that rivalled Franco Cozzo, as well as polished timber floors and a layout made for family gatherings.
With the matriarch now moving into aged care
and managing health issues the family is parting with the home after decades of milestones and Sunday lunches, and they're hoping it finds new owners who'll love it just as much.
'This place has hosted countless birthdays, barbecues and celebrations,' Mr Damianos said.
'It's full of love, and now the campaign is, too.'
Auction day is set to be a full-blown Italian celebration, complete with coffee, cannoli, and, if his schedule allows an appearance from D'Ambrosio himself.
Clayton continues to be one of Melbourne's most in-demand pockets, with PropTrack data showing house prices have climbed more than 36 per cent over the past five years, driven by strong buyer demand, proximity to Monash University and the Victorian Heart Hospital, and excellent rail and retail connections.
The home will be brought to market soon.
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