At Refined Real Estate its all about people first — the homes, the land, and the keys are just part of the journey. At the heart of it all is community, connection, and helping people feel supported every step of the way. That’s exactly what you get with Sharni Bichan and Mel Kenny two down-to-earth, hardworking professionals who genuinely love what they do and the communities they serve across South Otago.
Sharni Bichan is a familiar face in Milton and throughout the Clutha district a Property Advisor, Auctioneer, and proud local who brings heart, energy, and honesty into everything she does. Sharni understands just how important “home” really is. It’s not just a place it’s where life happens, where families grow, and where memories are made.
Known for her friendly, approachable style, Sharni has a natural ability to make people feel comfortable from the very first conversation. She’s calm under pressure, a strong communicator, and a skilled negotiator who knows how to get results without losing the personal touch.
Her recent results across Milton, Balclutha, Kaitangata, Owaka, and surrounding areas reflect her commitment to going the extra mile. From thoughtful marketing campaigns to strong auctioneering skills and clear communication, Sharni is focused on achieving the best outcome while keeping the process smooth and stress-free. She also continues to sharpen her skills through auctioneering competitions and ongoing professional development across New Zealand and Australia always learning, always improving, always striving for the best for her clients.
But what really sets Sharni apart is her heart for people. She is heavily involved in the local community, supporting schools, sports teams, fundraising events, and local initiatives whenever she can. For Sharni, real estate is not just a job — it’s about being part of the fabric of the community and helping it thrive.
Alongside her is Mel Kenny a highly respected, award-winning real estate professional with over 20 years of experience helping people buy and sell with confidence. Mel is known for her warm, genuine nature and her ability to make what can often feel like a stressful process feel calm, clear, and achievable.
Mel brings a wealth of knowledge and a steady, reassuring presence to every transaction. Her clients appreciate her honesty, her clear communication, and her ability to listen & really listen to what people need. She believes in Keeping it Real in Real Estate which is built on trust and relationships, and that’s exactly what she delivers every time.
With strong local insight and a strategic approach to marketing and negotiation, Mel has achieved consistent success across Balclutha and the wider South Otago region. From family homes to lifestyle properties and investment opportunities, she knows how to position a property to attract the right buyers and deliver strong results. Her experience also means she can guide clients through every stage of the process with confidence and care.
Outside of Real Estate, Mel is deeply family-focused and community-minded. She loves being involved in local life, supporting community events, and spending time with the people who matter most. That strong sense of connection carries through everything she does, both personally and professionally.
Together, Sharni and Mel bring the perfect blend of energy, experience, and heart. They are approachable, honest, and genuinely invested in helping people achieve their goals while making the journey enjoyable along the way.
At Refined Real Estate, they are proud to be part of a team that values people, community, and doing things the right way. Whether you’re buying, selling, or just curious about the market, Sharni and Mel are always happy to have a chat, offer advice, and help however they can.
Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about property it’s about people, place, and home.
